The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) and Hardwood Floors magazine’s annual Industry Outlook survey is a great tool to help you figure out where you are compared to your peers. From expected sales growth to wood floor trends to handling challenges, companies share detailed input on what they are seeing in their market.
As a preview, survey respondents remain cautiously optimistic, with 58 percent expecting sales growth in 2027 and 30 percent expecting sales to remain steady next year. Though it comes as no surprise, rising material, transportation, and labor costs are the biggest business challenges for companies right now, pressuring margins and influencing pricing, inventory, and sourcing decisions. Companies are preparing for 2027 by increasing efficiency, expanding their offerings, strengthening their supply chains, investing in education, and selectively adopting AI.
Now, how can you utilize NWFA to improve your own outlook?
One of the top ways is through the education you can receive only from the NWFA. Get training when and where you want it with more than 340 online courses in the NWFA University. Boost your career with expert-led NWFA hands-on training courses. Gain cutting-edge skills, master innovative techniques, and network with industry leaders to boost your reputation and profits. You will transform your expertise into a competitive edge and unlock new opportunities. Whether taking a Basic Installation or Advanced Finish class, there is something for everyone, no matter the career stage.
Build even more on your education and invest in yourself by becoming certified. The NWFA offers the following: Certified Installation Professional, Certified Sand & Finish Professional, Certified Sales Advisor, Certified Wood Flooring Inspector, Certified Craftsman, and Certified Master Craftsman. Doing so validates your industry knowledge, sets you apart, and recognizes you as an expert in your field.
If you would like to sharpen your business skills, it’s not too late to make plans to attend the NWFA Business Workshop. Taking place October 28-29 in St. Louis, Missouri, the event will provide practical tools and growth strategies for business owners and professionals at every stage.
Experience industry-led presentations, expert panels, and collaborative discussions. You will leave inspired, equipped, and with a complete 90-day business plan built for measurable results. And manufacturers can go further with the Manufacturers Assembly, exploring the latest innovations and trends shaping the industry.
Then plan on bringing everything together by attending the NWFA Expo on April 27-29, 2027, in Fort Worth, Texas. There you can experience prime networking opportunities, the latest products and services, hands-on demonstrations, and education sessions all in one place.
To learn about all the ways you can maximize your NWFA membership, contact the team at 800.422.4556 or visit nwfa.org.
