The wooden pallet industry is an $11.5 billion American success story. With over 2 billion wood pallets in circulation in the United States, we are a vital part of the national supply chain. At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic the packaging industry was officially designated as essential workforce critical infrastructure. However, the pandemic placed significant and unprecedented strains on our industry, with many of the long-term effects becoming increasingly clear. With 94% of all goods traveling on a pallet, if producers and other industries do not receive pallets, they cannot ship essential goods.
Brent McClendon, President & CEO of NWPCA, explains: “Our industry is one of many working to adapt to unprecedented shifts brought on by the pandemic. Amid limited labor and lumber availability, and facing nationwide transportation challenges, we have worked diligently to supply the pallets needed to meet the food, health, and critical infrastructure needs of this nation. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the wood pallet industry has played an essential role in enabling our supply chain partners to meet the increased demand for products. Wood pallets will continue to move the world during this time. Supply chain issues including lumber and labor shortages, lack of available truck drivers, and fluctuating fuel costs.
We understand US sawmills are working hard to increase capacity and meet strong consumer demand. Wood pallets are the number #1 market leader in packaging, and NWPCA continues to participate in various coalitions to support policy issues that can alleviate these recent challenges.”
Other critical parts of the supply chain are being affected as well. Earlier this year, United Fresh, a produce industry association, alerted their members of the widespread impact of the pallet shortage, emphasizing that the lack of pallets is adding stress to a strained supply chain.
NWPCA is proactive on the issue, ensuring that the industry is heard. Most recently, a grassroots campaign was launchedcalling for leaders to recognize the workforce crisis by addressing labor shortages to increase wood pallet availability.
calling for leaders to recognize the workforce crisis by addressing labor shortages to increase wood pallet availability.
Strength in Advocacy: Addressing Labor Shortages
by Grace Johnson
30 WESTERN PALLET