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36 Pallet C e nt ral • S e ptem be r- O ctobe r 2 0 25 ECONOMIC PULSE BY ANNETTE FERRI, VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONS ECONOMIC PULSE 2025: WHERE DOES THE WOOD PACKAGING INDUSTRY STAND? Insights from NWPCA Members on Market Trends, Tariffs, Labor, and the Road Ahead A s 2025 heads into its final stretch, the wood packaging industry finds itself navigating a complex and shifting economic landscape. In a recent economic pulse survey conducted by the National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA), over 70 members worldwide shared their perspectives on the current economic climate, their outlook for the months ahead, and the challenges that keep them up at night. While there is no clear consensus, the results reflect a cautiously dynamic industry, one that is adapting, recalibrating, and preparing for both uncertainty and opportunity. A Split Mood: Op mism vs. Pessimism Nearly 25% of respondents expressed optimism about the economy, citing signs of stabilization and potential growth on the horizon. "e core indicators tell me that we are more likely to have a strong finish to 2025 and good 2026," shared Dan Reardon Jr. of Reardon Pallet Company. Said another respondent, "We've weathered previous recessions with less disruption than what we've experienced in this 'non-recession' period of the past 18 months," noting a sense of resilience within operations. Additional optimistic voices noted inflation cooling in key areas like supply chain costs and fuel, as well as an increased willingness from customers to invest in efficiency- enhancing technologies. One respondent observed, "Inflation might tick up a little, but we're not seeing signs of a full-blown recession. ere's volatility, yes, but also opportunity." Even among the optimists, however, there's a tempered tone. "Cautiously optimistic," "slightly optimistic," and "optimistic but reticent" were common qualifiers. As Nunzio Presta, Head of

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