Columbia Forest Products has expanded its presence in the industrial wood pallet and packaging sector through the acquisition of Pennsylvania-based PRO Pallet LLC, continuing a diversification strategy that began with its entry into the pallet business four years ago.

Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

PRO Pallet manufactures custom wood pallets, provides pallet recycling services, and offers industrial crating and packaging solutions from facilities in Dover, York and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The acquisition strengthens Columbia’s footprint in the Mid-Atlantic region while adding to the pallet operations it established through the acquisition of JC Pallet in 2022.

According to the company, PRO Pallet will continue operating normally during the integration process, with no immediate changes to customer service or operations. Over time, Columbia plans to align its pallet businesses to take advantage of shared purchasing, operational expertise and infrastructure.

“This transaction represents an outstanding opportunity to strengthen and extend our capabilities,” said Mark Schaffer, founder and president of PRO Pallet. Schaffer said he plans to remain with the business beyond the ownership transition while maintaining the company’s focus on customer service and employee support.

The acquisition further broadens Columbia Forest Products’ industrial wood products portfolio beyond its core hardwood plywood and veneer business. Company officials said the combination of JC Pallet and PRO Pallet is expected to enhance service capabilities while strengthening Columbia’s position in the North American pallet and industrial packaging market.

Jamie Ward, Columbia’s director of corporate development, said bringing the two pallet companies together under Columbia’s ownership will provide customers with expanded quality, service and support while reinforcing the company’s position in the growing wood pallet and packaging sector.

Greg Pray, president and CEO of Columbia Forest Products, welcomed the PRO Pallet workforce to the employee-owned company, noting that the acquisition supports Columbia’s long-term growth strategy.

Founded in 1957, Columbia Forest Products is North America’s largest producer of decorative hardwood plywood and veneer. The company became 100% employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in 1984.

Source: packagingrevolution.net