In separate announcements, Nucor Corp. and the former AK Steel, now a part of Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., said the automaker has named them suppliers of the year as part of its annual supplier recognition program. 

GM said the award is meant to recognize suppliers that going above GM requirements and provide the most innovative technologies and highest quality.

“Our suppliers play a key role in delivering the products, services and experiences our customers deserve – and these award-winning suppliers went above and beyond our expectations,” said Shilpan Amin, GM vice president, global purchasing and supply chain.

This is the fourth year Cleveland Cliffs subsidiary AK Steel has received the award.

“Our leading position in automotive steel is undeniable, and we value GM’s recognition of our outstanding quality, reliability and delivery performance,” said Cleveland-Cliffs chairman and chief executive Lourenco Goncalves said. 

“This prestigious award recognizes the performance of the Cleveland-Cliffs’ team and our first-class R&D and equipment capabilities, supporting our well-known ability to deliver a more comprehensive offering of high-end steel products to the automotive industry than any other steel supplier in the United States.”

Nucor, meanwhile, is receiving the award for its third consecutive year.   

"On behalf of Nucor's 27,000 teammates, I want to thank GM for this recognition. We value our relationship with GM, particularly working with them through the pandemic which presented challenges for both of our industries. We look forward to strengthening the partnership we have formed," said Nucor president and chief executive Leon Topalian. 

Winners are chosen by a global team of GM purchasing, engineering, quality, manufacturing and logistics executives. Winners were selected based on performance criteria in product purchasing, global purchasing and manufacturing services, customer care and aftersales, and logistics. This is the 29th year GM has honored suppliers with the Supplier of the Year Award.