Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1514071
24 Pallet C e nt ral • Janu a r y -Fe b r u a r y 2 0 24 PRS PROSAW DISMANTLERS 9 Heavy-Duty, High Speed Bandsaws 9 Several models to fit your operation's needs 9 Engineered for lowest blade cost & highest production TOMORROW'S TECHNOLOGIES, TODAY TOMORROW'S TECHNOLOGIES, TODAY ADVANCE YOUR BUSINESS THROUGH AUTOMATION. PARTNER WITH PRS TODAY! 2 Eastgate Drive Jacksonville, IL 62650-6268 TOLL FREE (866) 546-8864 prsgroupinc.com T he 2024 outlook for the pallet industry presents a mixed picture. e first half of the year is expected to remain relatively stagnant, with the potential for an increase in the third and fourth quarters. is projection is influenced by several factors, including the current reduction in demand for shipping pallets, which has intensified competition among pallet manufacturers. Additionally, adverse economic conditions and sluggish retail sales persist due to continued inflation in essential goods, further contributing to the uncertainty. e global landscape is being influenced by geopolitical developments and social unrest triggered by conflicts in Ukraine and Israel. ese factors have generated widespread concern about their potential spread and impact on various aspects of society. As a result, consumers may become more cautious in their spending habits, choosing to tighten their financial belts. ere is a growing trend in favor of packaging materials that align with environmental regulations and corporate sustainability goals. Corporate packaging engineers face the task of designing cost-effective, high-performance packages that utilize sustainable materials and practices while also facilitating easy conversion into new products. Purchasing agents are taking on the responsibility of sourcing and vetting suppliers capable of meeting these criteria. e NWPCA has created tools that empower its members to demonstrate their capacity to meet specified requirements. ese tools will play a pivotal role in determining which supplier secures the purchase order. Gary Sharon, Executive Vice President, Litco International