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12 Pallet C e nt ral • No vem be r-D e cem be r 2 0 24 INSIDE NWPCA CONT. Strengthening Na onal Rela onships M ark Barford, NWPCA Senior Director of Business Partnerships, recently visited members in St. Louis ahead of the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) convention in early October. During his visit, he met with Profile Technology, Madison County Wood Products, and PLM Companies, engaging in valuable discussions about industry innovations and gaining insights into the latest advancements and challenges facing NWPCA members. Brussels & Bruges: Strengthening International Relationships N WPCA Board Chair Jeff Lewis joined President & CEO Brent McClendon and Jason Ortega for critical meetings in Brussels, where they met with key policymakers. NWPCA staff engaged with several EU Commission heads of office to discuss the integral role of pallets in the global supply chain, including a meeting with the new Counselor for Commercial Affairs. While progress has been made in defending the global supply chain and supporting pallet buyers' needs, NWPCA remains committed to ensuring wooden pallets remain the transport packaging of choice. After Brussels, several NWPCA leaders and staff attended the 71st FEFPEB Congress 2024 in Ostend, where discussions focused on economic and political uncertainties, AI technology, and regulations affecting the pallet industry. e week was filled with rewarding meetings and factory tours. Brad Gething, PhD, and Kristen DeLack, PE, led demonstrations of the Pallet Design System™ at the PDS booth, offering attendees insights into its capabilities and benefits. 12 Pallet C e nt ral • No vem be r-D e cem be r 2 0 24

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