West Coast Business Trends 2025 – Despite Current Sluggish Conditions, The West Coast Cautiously Hope For Uptick In Demand
Hardwood contacts across the West Coast described conditions as subdued but not stalled, with most reporting slower sales compared to the first half of the year. The summer months, which one contact noted are often unpredictable for hardwood activity, were marked by thinner order files and cautious buying patterns. Many anticipate that stronger demand could return in this quarter, depending heavily on housing turnover and construction.
A contact in Washington, who supplies primarily 4/4 and 5/4 Hard Maple, Poplar, and both Red and White Oak in No. 1 Common and upper grades, reported that Maple remains the strongest mover. “Maple seems to be the strongest, then probably Poplar after that,” the supplier explained. Customers in this area are primarily end users, many of whom report thinner order files compared to earlier this year. While transportation costs have not been an issue, tariffs and trade dynamics remain a watchpoint. Export shipments continue to move into China and Vietnam, though overall Asian production is down, and importers remain concerned about shifting costs. Looking forward, the Washington supplier said they were “more optimistic about the next six months,” citing the possibility that lower interest rates could put pressure on mortgages and help stimulate building activity.
In California, a supplier who carries 4/4 through 16/4 Red and White Oak, Poplar, and both Soft and Hard Maple along with a selection of exotics, described his markets as “fair” overall.
He said customers are accounting for thinner order files but added this is generally the case seasonally.
“It’s not unusual for this time of year,” he explained. While tariffs remain a concern, particularly on certain imports, transportation has been good. Despite softer demand, he emphasized a positive outlook for the months ahead, noting that customer engagement remains steady and that regional housing turnover could help drive stronger orders later in the year.
A separate California source, who handles a broad domestic mix with Red and White Oak, Cherry, and a line of imports including Mahogany and Asian plywood, said the majority of sales remain in 4/4 stock, though thickness runs up through 8/4 on most species and even 16/4 in Poplar. “It’s okay, but slower,” the supplier said, pointing to housing turnover as a key drag on demand. “When houses don’t turn, people don’t remodel kitchens or bathrooms, and that’s part of the slowdown.” Cherry has seen modest gains, Red Oak is showing renewed activity and White Oak remains steady. Their customer base includes cabinet shops, fixture manufacturers, and lumberyards.
While interest rates remain a concern, transportation has been manageable, and tariffs have not significantly impacted European imports to date.
Both California and Washington contacts expressed cautious optimism for the months ahead. While current business is somewhat sluggish, many believe improved housing activity and the potential for interest rate relief could support stronger demand.
