A Ghqnging Mqrket

By Mark Palmer

T", ,O*OEST lumber and building products trade show in North America focused on bringing together manufacturers and wholesalers, the NAWLA Traders Market, is coming up next month in Chicago.

Change will be a common theme for the show. Change is affecting the way we communicate, many of the ways we do business, our customers' needs, the services we provide, and the world around us. One thing that won't change, however, is the value of face-to-face interaction with our customers and suppliers. That's one of the values of the NAWLA Traders Market!

This year's show is changing to add even more value for you than ever before. Offering numerous educational programs, the 2009 show features educational program themes revolving around change and how to take advantage or deal with change. (The entire NAWLA Traders Market schedule can be found on page 9.)

There is also an expanded NAWLA Magellan Club Luncheon & Program. If international trade-import or export-interests you, NAWLA will offer a five-person panel of industry specialists focusing on market trends in China, Russia, Europe, South America, Canada/U.S. regulatory issues, and Southern Asia, as well as global transportation issues and trends, logistics and trade. Russ Taylor, International Wood Markets Group, will moderate the panel to include Robert Flynn, RISI; Rick Ekstein, Weston Forest Group; Joel Junker, Joel Junker & Associates, and George Cinilla, OHL Global Freight Management & Logistics Co.

Other changes to enhance networking include the "Spotlight on Exhibitors" program found right on the trade show floor and informational booths available to inform you of new NAWLA programs and expanded group initiatives.

In times like these, it is even more important to network and meet face-to-face with your customers, suppliers and business affiliates, while also keeping up-to-date with changes in the marketplace. I invite you to do this at the NAWLA Traders Market.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Msrk Pulmer North American Wholesale Lumber Association Interim C.e.o. Executive Director