Northeastern Retail Lumber Association (NRLA)

05/28/2026

“So it starts with the manufacturer: they make the product, then they have to deliver it to the distributor. They are also paying higher insurance,” said Rita Ferris, president of the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association. "The distributor then has to bring the product to the retailer, and the retailer is paying higher insurance, and then that gets baked into the price of the cost of goods."

Yesterday, NRLA President Rita Ferris sat down with CBS 6 Albany to discuss auto insurance prices in New York, and the effects they have on the price of goods.

Watch the full segment here: https://buff.ly/7ANurkY

New Yorkers who feel squeezed every time they pay their car insurance bill could see relief under a sweeping package of reforms Gov. Hochul secured in the FY27

05/27/2026

Changing the sales trajectory of a business really isn’t all that difficult. Often it is as simple as taking the business back to the basics of calling on new customers, understanding their needs, and helping them see how your business’ “solution” can make their situation better.

Read More: https://buff.ly/ihIwS1Q
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05/26/2026

Members of the Retail Lumber Dealers Association of Maine’s (RLDAM) Board of Directors toured the Portland, Maine, facility of BROSCO Boise Cascade following a recent board meeting.

Thank you to BROSCO Boise Cascade, for hosting the meeting and providing the tour!

05/25/2026

Today we remember the bravery, courage, and honor of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation.

In observance of Memorial Day, NRLA Headquarters will be closed today. We will reopen tomorrow for standard business hours.

05/20/2026

Today, CNYRLDA and NNYLDA teamed up for the Upstate NY Lumber Dealers Open at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for a great day of golf!

05/20/2026

Mental Health in the Lumber Industry: The Tough Conversation We Can’t Afford to Ignore

For too long, the lumber industry has perpetuated a “tough it out” mindset built around getting the job done and pushing forward. But, as we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, there is a shift happening. Lumber dealers and operators recognize that to retain talent, protect their people, and maintain operations, mental health must be a priority.

Read More: https://buff.ly/qARLDUw

05/19/2026

The Massachusetts Retail Lumber Dealers Association (MRLDA) recently held their Past Presidents, Past Board Members, and Friends luncheon at the MIT Endicott house in Dedham, Mass.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for a great event!

05/19/2026

Support Victims and Families Impacted by Robbins Lumber Explosion

Please consider donating to the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation to support the victims and families impacted by the tragic explosion and fire at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, Maine, last week.

The Maine Strong Memorial Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing temporary financial relief to Maine families impacted by unexpected tragedy, including medical emergencies, accidents, sudden loss, and other life-altering hardships. The organization is working closely with the Town of Searsmont to ensure that all of donations are distributed directly to confirmed victims and their immediate families.

Donate Now: https://buff.ly/YbIdEnz

We would like to send a very special thank you to Hammond Lumber Company, who announced a $100,000 donation to support the victims and families impacted by this heartbreaking event. Read More: https://buff.ly/Q7Vxno8

The Maine Strong Memorial Foundation has launched an Emergency Relief Fund supporting those impacted by the Searsmont lumber mill explosion. Donations will provide direct financial relief to injured individuals and affected families.

05/18/2026

The May LC Has Arrived!

Find how to modernize your sales approach—from your website’s first impression to the showroom floor and more! Plus, current flooring trends and products.

Read Now: https://buff.ly/6qbMOgd
Subscribe: https://buff.ly/Tr3fp5d

05/15/2026

Meet Joshua Jalbert, the Lumber Co-operator's latest Rising Star! Joshua is a Sales Manager at Shepley Wood Products in Hyannis, Mass., where he has served for close to 16 years. Congratulations, Joshua!

To read our full interview, visit buff.ly/gVfvXVZ

Do you have an employee or co-worker under the age of 40 who is actively and proudly working in the LBM Industry? If so, we want to know! Submit your nominee here: buff.ly/cX1SxuZ

05/14/2026

This week, the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association was proud to host our Spring Leadership Event in Rensselaer!

On Tuesday, May 12, executives, board members, and members from across the region came together for a full day of productive meetings, meaningful conversations, and valuable networking opportunities. We were also honored to celebrate Rita Ferris and her incredible 30th Anniversary with NRLA—a milestone that reflects her dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on the association and industry.

The afternoon continued with our Networking Cocktail Reception, generously sponsored by Eastern New York Lumber Dealers Association, leading into a wonderful evening of great food, conversation, and connection ahead of NY Lobby Day the following day.

It was truly a fantastic week filled with collaboration, advocacy, celebration, and strengthening relationships across our industry. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the event such a success!