April 2025
March 2025
The pallet industry is always changing, and it's so much more than just getting goods from point A to point B. The entire supply chain - everything from equipment manufacturers to consumable suppliers, pallet brokers, and logistics providers—are all interconnected, with each piece playing a vital role in keeping things running smoothly.
But there's one more key element that's just as important: the advocacy and efforts of the partners you rely on to move your goods. A supplier who’s actively involved in their local community and participating in industry advocacy and education ensures you have access to affordable, top-quality materials, helping your business stay ahead of trends.
Supply and Your Demands
One great way to make a real impact on your business is by forming strong partnerships with your industry suppliers. Distributors who truly understand your needs and align their
supply chains with your business goals are essential. A simple way to gauge that alignment is by working with fellow WPA members.
These service providers are deeply involved in initiatives that shape everything from transportation and sustainability to workforce development and infrastructure. When your blade supplier, saw manufacturer, or pallet broker is working alongside you in the same spaces, sharing the same initiatives, we’re all better and stronger together!
"Distributors who truly understand your needs and align their supply chains with your business goals are essential. A simple way to gauge that alignment is by working with fellow WPA members."
The Role of Equipment Manufacturers
Let’s now directly consider equipment manufacturers, as they play a big role in how the pallet industry operates. These companies create the saw, sorting lines, automated processes and tools that keep businesses efficient and scalable. Investing in top-notch equipment allows businesses to meet growing market demands and maintain safety and sustainability standards.
Manufacturers also partner in workforce development, offering training and certifications that can help businesses attract and retain skilled workers. Service providers can advocate for policies that make it easier for companies to access these programs -
whether through grants, tax incentives, or support for technologies like energy-efficient sawmills or automated systems.
Manufacturers also partner in workforce development, offering training and certifications that can help businesses attract and retain skilled workers. Service providers can advocate for policies that make it easier for companies to access these programs—whether through grants, tax incentives, or support for technologies like energy-efficient sawmills or automated systems.
Key States Leading the Way
Let’s look at a few key states—California, Washington, Oregon, Arizona, and Nevada—that have a big impact on the pallet and lumber industries. In California, factors such as the California Forest Carbon Plan and timber harvesting regulations can affect production costs. Small businesses can get involved by attending public hearings or applying for grants to adopt more sustainable practices.
In Washington, the timber industry faces challenges like shifting export regulations and workforce shortages. Service providers can help by advocating for policies with groups such as the Washington Forest Protection Association and partnering with local vocational schools to train new talent. Oregon focuses on forest health and restoration, and Arizona and Nevada are seeing rapid growth due to infrastructure projects, creating opportunities to push for streamlined building codes and better workforce training.
By understanding the initiatives in the state where you operate, you can make informed decisions to align your business with suppliers who advocate for and provide real-time solutions to help you thrive. For example, partnering with a supplier that offers biodegradable earplugs can boost your sustainability efforts and open up new opportunities for your business.
The Bottom Line: Why Your Voice Matters
Advocacy isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also a smart business move. By getting involved, you’ll build a stronger network, gain access to valuable resources, and influence regulations that align with your goals. Whether it’s attending public hearings, joining industry associations, or working with policymakers, there are plenty of ways to make your voice heard and help shape the future of the pallet industry.
If you haven’t already, now’s a great time to get involved! As the chair of the Advocacy & Insights committee, I’d love to personally invite you to join us in creating valuable resources for our association and beyond. I can honestly say that working closely with other WPA members has really helped me grow as a business professional, and I’ve learned so much from expanding those partnerships. Together, we can help make our industry even more sustainable and efficient, and keep it thriving for the long haul!