Sold-Out Expo Hall Highlights SLMA Annual Conference
The Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association (SLMA) welcomed approximately 500 attendees to the 2026 SLMA Annual Conference, held recently at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, AL. Members, exhibitors, sponsors and guests gathered for several days of education, networking and industry collaboration in one of the Gulf Coast’s most scenic settings.
The conference featured a sold-out Expo Hall with 51 exhibitors and the support of 27 event sponsors, providing attendees with opportunities to discover the latest products, services and innovations serving the forest products industry.
Networking remained a highlight throughout the week, with attendees enjoying a variety of activities including a pottery class where participants created handcrafted coil bowls, a bay fishing excursion, the annual golf tournament, and several networking dinners that encouraged meaningful connections among industry professionals.
This year’s keynote address was delivered by Jason Edison of IntelTechniques, who presented an engaging session on hacking, cybersecurity and practical strategies for protecting businesses in an increasingly digital world. Attendees also participated in an in-depth Issues Forum, where industry leaders shared timely legislative, economic and operational updates affecting the lumber industry.
SLMA extends its appreciation to 2026 Chairman Ricky Stanley of T. R. Miller Mill Co. Inc. for his leadership throughout the year. He will conclude his chairmanship at the 2027 SLMA Annual Conference in Orlando, FL. The 2027 conference is scheduled for July 18–22, and registration is expected to open in early 2027.
Learn more at slma.org.
