June 2025
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August 2025
smaller, urban facilities that need better pallets and often different formats like half or block pallets,” he said.
This shift is driving interest in pallet inspection technologies and camera-based quality control systems. “Expect to see higher levels of inbound and outbound pallet inspections,” he noted. "There are several ways to skin that cat—what matters is picking the one that fits your operation."
He also discussed the possibility of smart pallets playing a greater role in future supply chains. While tagging pallets has historically been viewed as too expensive or unnecessary, that attitude may be changing in highly automated, data-driven environments.
Long-Term View
Brindley repeatedly returned to a central theme: this is the time to plan. “If you're not preparing now, you won't be ready when the market rebounds,” he said. He encouraged companies to begin or refine their data strategies, automation plans, and capital investment roadmaps.
Asked about capital expenditure expectations for 2026 and beyond, Brindley said, “I’m optimistic. There are tax incentives coming, and as trade deals settle, people will feel more confident in pulling the trigger on equipment purchases.”
But he also urged companies to remain realistic. “Even if the Trump administration wants to increase domestic timber supply through executive orders, it won’t be immediate. Loggers and truckers are still in short supply. Legal challenges will delay new timber sales. But it’s a step in the right direction.”
Meanwhile, he hinted at a future where labor challenges could be offset by emerging technologies. “We joke about humanoid robots in pallet plants. But if labor shortages persist, it may not be a joke forever.”
The webinar also touched on the “Big Beautiful Bill” tax legislation, expected to bring about permanent cuts and new tax-free savings accounts. While Brindley welcomed the clarity, he emphasized the ongoing influence of trade tensions.
“Certainty is critical for investment,” he said. “A big trade deal with China could change everything. But until that’s done, expect hesitancy.”
He also pointed to the need for more predictable import costs, particularly for machinery suppliers and manufacturers. “You don’t want to put down a deposit on a saw or nailing line and then get hit with a surprise tariff.”
As the webinar wrapped, Brindley emphasized that the pallet industry is at a crossroads. While no dramatic shift is expected in the immediate months, 2026 may bring more substantial growth if companies position themselves accord- ingly.
“This isn’t your grandfather’s pallet business,” he concluded. “We’re not going back to the old normal. The companies that succeed will be the ones that embrace change, invest wisely, and stay ahead of customer expectations.”
For businesses still waiting for conditions to improve, Brindley had a final note of caution: “Don’t just wait. Use this time to get ready.”