NOVEMBER 2023
U.S. Representative Brownley’s Visit
Celebrating Local Business and Sustainability at Oxnard Pallet Company
By Hallie Fuchs, NWPCA Staff
In a display of commitment to her district and following historic rainfall throughout the region because of Tropical Storm Hilary, Congresswoman Julia Brownley visited Oxnard Pallet Company, a Western Pallet Association as well as National Wooden Pallet and Container Association member. Located in the heart of California’s 26th Congressional District, which encompasses most of Ventura County and the Conejo Valley, Oxnard Pallet Company is a prime example of the local businesses that serve as the backbone of our communities. Brownley’s visit underscores the often-overlooked importance of wooden pallets in the supply chain and the sustainability narrative.
Oxnard Pallet Company was started as a trucking business in 1987 by Elias and Beatrice Vasquez. It expanded into pallets in March 1993 when the Vasquezes purchased a two-acre industrial lot next to an old lima bean factory. As Oxnard continued to grow, so did the Oxnard Pallet Company’s operations. The factory lot grew to 10 acres, where the company continues robust operations today.
Brownley understands the value they bring to our local economies and the success of our communities. In the 26th District, where agriculture plays a significant role, companies like Oxnard Pallet Company are not just businesses but partners in the region’s economy. With 55 employees, Oxnard recycles and refurbishes approximately 50,000 pallets a month and produces export, custom, and new pallets and crates as demanded, touching all industries because of the wooden pallet’s versatile nature.
Moreover, wooden pallets tell a compelling sustainability story. As businesses and policymakers seek economically sound and environmentally responsible packaging solutions, wooden pallets play an important role. They are reusable, repairable, and can be used for many byproducts when they reach the end of their life. Congresswoman Brownley, a key player on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and a member of the former House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, recognizes the dual role wooden pallets play in our economy and sustainability journey.
During her visit, Brownley demonstrated her deep understanding
(Cont'd on Page 34)
of these issues. She sat down for a conversation with the Oxnard Pallet Company team and NWPCA’s Vice President of Public Affairs, Jason Ortega. Brownley also recognized Beatrice and Elias Vasquez, CFO and CEO, respectively, of Oxnard Pallet Company, for the considerable roles they play in the wood pallet industry and their advocacy for NWPCA and other pallet organizations, including the Western Pallet Association. The Vasquezes welcomed the opportunity to discuss with Brownley the importance of the wood pallet industry and the challenges small business owners face.
Congresswoman Julia Brownley’s visit to Oxnard Pallet Company was more than a routine engagement with constituents. It was a powerful statement of the values she has championed throughout her time in office: a steadfast commitment to local businesses, a deep understanding of the intricacies of our supply chains, and a strong belief in the importance of sustainability.