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current staffing over the next six months, with a
smaller share anticipating expansion.
at said, labor challenges remain persistent.
Members cited difficulty finding reliable
workers, rising wages and insurance costs, an
aging workforce, and continued uncertainty
around immigration policy.
"Getting and keeping dependable people
who show up every day remains the biggest
challenge," one respondent summarized.
Even for companies with stable teams, the long-
term outlook for labor availability continues to
weigh on planning decisions.
Looking Ahead: Guarded
Confidence
Taken together, the Economic Pulse Survey
reflects an industry in a holding pattern—
adapting, tightening, and positioning itself for
opportunity when conditions improve.
Cautious optimism, grounded in realism,
defines the moment. While uncertainty remains
elevated, pallet and container manufacturers
are focused on what they can control: efficiency,
flexibility, strong relationships, and readiness.
e consensus is clear. is is not a period of
retreat but one of preparation, as the industry
waits for clearer signals that it's time to move
forward.
Free Samples
Testing = Multiple Use
Annee Ferri is NWPCA's vice
president of communications.
She plays a senior role in
leading the organization's
communications with the
members of NWPCA and the
industry.
She may be reached at
703.519.6104 or
aferri@palletcentral.com.
ECONOMY
BY ANNETTE FERRI, VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
