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4 Pallet C e nt ral • May -Ju ne 2 0 26 PALLETCENTRAL, Volume 26 No.3 PalletCentral ® is a bi-monthly publication of Woodpack Global™, © 2026 Woodpack Global™. All rights reserved. Woodpack Global 225 Reinekers Lane, Suite 560 Alexandria, VA 22314 703-519-6104 info@palletcentral.com Advertising: To advertise in PalletCentral, contact Mark Barford at 703-519-0186 or mark@woodpackglobal.org. Publishing Partner: Tulip Media Group Subscriptions to PalletCentral ® are complimentary, however you need to subscribe: PalletCentral.com/pallet-subscription >>Subscribe Subscribe to ensure you receive the latest edition of PalletCentral ® and to make sure we have your correct mailing address and/or email address for digital editions. Please note that Woodpack Global™ does not sell our mailing lists. ©2026 Woodpack Global™. All rights reserved. The views expressed in all articles, editorials and advertisements appearing in PalletCentral are solely those of the author and advertiser, respectively, and do not necessarily represent the views of Woodpack Global. IN THIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS 8 Leer From Our Board Chair 10 Policy At Play 12 Inside Woodpack Global 30 Our Advertisers 20 36 WOODPACK GLOBAL May-June 2026 • Volume 26 No. 3 42 | Lessons From Workers Memorial Month Workplace safety is about more than compliance. It is about protecting lives, reducing risk, and recognizing the responsibility employers carry every day. Workers Memorial Month serves as an important reminder that despite progress, serious hazards still exist across many industries. Real safety requires ongoing vigilance, education, and a strong commitment to prevention. BY ADELE L. ABRAMS, ESQ., ASP, CMSP 36 | The Next Frontier In Wood Packaging Design: Crate Design System Is Coming The Crate Design System marks an important step forward for wood packaging engineering. By bringing modern precision and decades of wood science to crate design, Woodpack Global is helping the industry move beyond outdated methods. As wood packaging needs continue to evolve, CDS points to a smarter, more connected future. BY PDS TEAM 20 | From Vendor To Strategic Suppliers: Member Highlights Becoming a strategic supplier starts with a shi in mindset. While many businesses begin with transactions, long-term success in the pallet industry is built through partnership, problem-solving, and a deep understanding of customer needs. Woodpack Global members show that true value comes from tailoring solutions, aligning with the metrics customers care about most, and continuously improving over time. As operations grow more complex, the strongest suppliers are no longer just selling products. They are helping shape performance, resilience, and future growth across the industry. BY MARK BARFORD 32 | AI In The Pallet Industry: What's Working, What's Not, And How To Get Started Artificial intelligence offers real potential for the pallet industry, but success depends on taking a practical approach. Rather than chasing big promises, companies can gain the most by starting with achievable tools that improve operations, safety, and compliance. With the right strategy and partner, AI becomes less about hype and more about meaningful progress. BY ANNETTE FERRI 24 | Staying Ahead Of Fire Risk This Summer Fire safety in the pallet industry begins long before an emergency. While drought conditions and wildfire risk heighten concern, the strongest protection comes from preparation, education, and disciplined planning. Woodpack Global's work with fire code leaders and regulators show that safer operations are built through clear standards, practical site planning, strong prevention measures, and ongoing training. As facilities face growing environmental and operational risks, fire safety is not just a compliance issue. It is a year-round commitment to protecting people, property, and the long-term strength of the industry. BY BRAD GETHING

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