Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1538938
12 Pallet C e nt ral • S e ptem be r- O ctobe r 2 0 25 INSIDENWPCA NWPCA ANNOUNCEMENTS & UPCOMING EVENTS NWPCA Strengthens Regional Ties Ahead Of LATAM Conferencia N ewly appointed Senior Director for Mexico and Latin America Paola Beltrán Madrid and Senior Vice President Jason Ortega recently completed a series of strategic visits to Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey. ese tours aimed to strengthen relationships with key industry members, gather market insights, and reinforce the growing influence of the Capítulo Latinoamericano within the global pallet and packaging sector. In Guadalajara, the team connected with innovative leaders at RGM, El Martillo, and MACOPISA—companies recognized for their operational excellence and forward-thinking approaches. In Mexico City, visits included Tarimas y Empaque Industrial, Tarimera El Rayo, Protsur, and Grupo LB, with each offering valuable perspectives across the wood-packaging value chain. In Monterrey, there were more site visits and in-depth discussions with NasaPack, Kayak Packaging, Prommont, and TARIMEX. We extend our sincere thanks to all the companies who generously hosted our team—your time, hospitality, and openness to collaboration reflect the strength and spirit of the Latin American wood packaging community. ese engagements set the stage for continued collaboration as excitement builds for the Wood Packaging Industry Conference & Expo—LATAM this September. Pallet Founda on Launches New Project To Advance Markets For Wood Residuals T he Pallet Foundation received a $120,000 Wood Innovation Grant from the USDA Forest Service, part of an $80 million national investment to expand timber markets, strengthen rural economies, and promote forest health. is grant funds a new initiative aimed at identifying viable and scalable market solutions for wood residuals generated by pallet manufacturing and recycling operations. e project examines both current and emerging applications for wood residuals, conducts feasibility studies, and develops a roadmap for market development that promotes industry sustainability and economic resilience. NWPCA members are invited to complete a brief survey to share their experiences in managing wood residuals, including challenges with disposal, costs, and policy barriers. Member input plays a critical role in shaping the project's research and recommendations. ose interested in deeper engagement are also encouraged to join the Task Group guiding this important work. Take the survey or join the task group at palletcentral.com/wood-residuals.