The 2025 SLMA Spring Meeting & Expo in Savannah, GA, brought together over 200 industry professionals for a productive event featuring 10 speakers, 50 exhibiting companies and a successful fundraiser dinner. Held by the Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association (SLMA), the recent event provided insights into market trends, economic conditions and industry initiatives.
The Oyster Bar Bash fundraiser dinner at Vic’s on the River drew over 110 attendees and was a resounding success, noted a SLMA representative. The funds raised will directly support SLMA’s workforce and consumer outreach programs.
The expo hall was fully booked with 50 exhibitors, offering attendees the opportunity to explore the latest products, services and innovations in the industry. With cocktails and hors d’oeuvres one day of the event, and coffee and breakfast on the next day, the expo hall proved to be the perfect place for networking.
Dale Bracken from National Assessment introduced the Fundamentals of Leadership program and highlighted the reunion in Lexington, KY, which was held on April 4-5, 2025. Derek Martisis from Marsh McLennan Agency provided an in-depth discussion on single parent and cell captive insurance. Ryan Flom from the Softwood Lumber Board spoke about taking softwood lumber from niche to mainstream. Paul Jannke from Forest Economic Advisors presented on the status of the lumber economy. Chris Osborne and Mark Saussy from Southeast Asset Advisors examined the impact of the new administration’s policies on the economy and markets. Adrian Blocker, a respected industry executive, provided an update on the Working Forest Initiative. Jordan Littrell and Maggie Pope from ForestryWorks gave an overview of their new sawmill worker high school curriculum course. Jim Wimberly from Wimberly, Lawson, Steckel, Schneider & Stine wrapped up the Industry Updates by talking about new immigration enforcement and other employment issues raised by the new administration.
The Industry Updates were packed with valuable information and the networking opportunities were unmatched. SLMA looks forward to doing it all again at the 2025 SLMA Annual Conference July 20-23 at the Ritz-Carlton in Amelia Island, FL.
