Welcome to Episode 2 of  The Fabricator’s Edge — a new podcast from the team at Dutton Engineering.

Episode Two: What’s the True Cost of “Cheap” Fabrication?

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing environment, it’s easy to default to the lowest quote on your desk. After all, driving down unit costs is what procurement’s all about—right?

Not quite.

In Episode 2 of The Fabricator’s Edge, we explore how price-focused sourcing in sheet metal fabrication often leads to unexpected risk, rework, and cost escalation further down the line. Through real-world case studies and insights drawn from strategic procurement leaders across the food, pharma, architecture and infrastructure sectors, this episode challenges the assumption that cheaper always means better.

Our hosts discuss:

• Why Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is a more accurate way to evaluate supplier value
• The hidden costs of poor quality: from scrap and rework to operational delays and warranty claims
• How suppliers with strong in-house quality control, automation, and communication capabilities can help buyers avoid firefighting and unlock smarter margins

Why This Episode Matters for Procurement Leaders

If you’re in charge of supply chain performance, you’re not just buying parts—you’re buying outcomes. From consistent delivery to zero-defect assemblies, your fabrication partner’s reliability can make or break your production line.

This episode helps you rethink how you evaluate value and highlights what to look for in suppliers who’ll make you look good in the boardroom:
✔️ ISO-certified processes
✔️ 24/7 precision capacity
✔️ Track record of on-time delivery and low defect rates

Who Should Listen?

• Procurement Managers under pressure to hit cost targets without sacrificing quality
• Operations and Supply Chain Directors facing growing complexity in sourcing
• Strategic Buyers evaluating UK vs. offshore fabrication trade-offs
• Factory Managers and Engineers involved in prototype development or custom builds

Key Takeaway

The cheapest quote on the spreadsheet rarely tells the full story. Understanding TCO and investing in quality-first partners doesn’t just reduce risk—it builds resilience, speed, and trust into your supply chain.

Listen Now to Episode 2

The Fabricator’s Edge is available now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Tune in for practical insights, real factory-floor examples, and expert conversations designed to help you think smarter about your supply chain choices. Or you can click to listen right here:

Brought to you by Dutton Engineering

With over 35 years of experience delivering precision sheet metal solutions for complex sectors, Dutton Engineering is proud to support forward-thinking procurement teams across the UK and beyond. Our services include:

• 24/7 custom fabrication

• ISO1090 MIG/TIG coded welding

• Laser & waterjet cutting

• 3D printing with Markforged technology

• Integrated CAD/CAM and digital production systems

Looking to cut carbon, not corners? Let’s talk.