LMC proudly hosted its milestone celebration, the 2025 Annual, from March 6-8 in Phoenix, Arizona. As one of the most anticipated events in the lumber and building materials (LBM) industry, 70% of the LMC Dealer network— which comprises the nation’s premier independent lumber and building materials dealers—gathered to commemorate nine decades of industry leadership and prepare for a thriving future. More than just a celebration, the event reinforced LMC’s unwavering commitment to shaping the industry's future.
At this premier event, LMC dealers connected with industry peers and top suppliers from across the country. Over the three days, attendees gained strategic industry insights through expert-led sessions and explored cutting-edge products from leading suppliers. With unparalleled opportunities for supplier negotiations, exclusive show specials offering substantial savings, and a New Products Showcase featuring the latest innovations, dealers maximized their potential for growth and profitability in 2025. The theme, "Celebrating 90 Years Strong," honored LMC's evolution from its 1935 founding to its status as an industry powerhouse, emphasizing its enduring commitment to dealer success and innovation.
A Dynamic Start: Education, Networking, and Celebration
The event kicked off with a full day of educational experiences, including 19 diverse training sessions. These 
included specialized networking opportunities for kitchen and bath professionals and the highly anticipated presentation, "The Changing North American Lumber Basket," where LMC experts analyzed critical shifts in lumber markets. The show floor buzzed with energy during the Welcome Reception, a signature networking event where dealers, suppliers, and the LMC team connected. To commemorate LMC’s 90th anniversary, attendees enjoyed a special 90-Minute Prize Giveaway featuring high-value prizes throughout the evening.
Driving Innovation and Strengthening Partnerships
The second day of the Annual Event opened with LMC President & CEO Paul Ryan delivering a comprehensive review of 2024 achievements and outlining the company’s future direction. Keynote speaker Erik Wahl, a renowned artist and business strategist, followed with his presentation, "The Art of Vision, Leadership & Creativity." Wahl’s dynamic session, incorporating a live art demonstration, inspired attendees with fresh perspectives on navigating business change.
A new highlight this year was the Innovation Theater, hosted by LMC’s Technology Department. This dedicated space featured product demonstrations showcasing groundbreaking advancements in the LBM industry, providing attendees with hands-on experiences with new materials and tools. Another key attraction was the Celebration Zone, where attendees enjoyed a backyard bash, featuring activities designed to foster relationships while celebrating this milestone anniversary.
Honoring a Legacy of Resilience and Growth
A visually compelling timeline exhibit chronicled LMC’s 90-year history, highlighting milestones such as its inception during the Great Depression, resilience through World War II, the transition to Sole Affiliation for Dealers, technological advancements, and adaptations during the COVID-19 pandemic. These moments underscored LMC’s perseverance and adaptability in an ever-evolving industry.
The exhibition floor was a hub of activity as LMC dealers met with key suppliers and industry innovators to prepare for the upcoming peak building season. Exclusive show specials provided significant cost savings on essential inventory. Dealers strengthened existing supplier relationships while forging new connections, and LMC staff engaged with attendees, discussing business challenges, strategic opportunities, and programs designed to keep dealers competitive in their local markets.
LMC also celebrated dealer achievements, recognizing 41 dealers for milestone anniversaries. Additionally, 100 LMC dealers celebrated over a century in business in 2025, a testament to their longevity and success. Wilson Lumber and Arnold Lumber were also honored as recipients of LBM Journal’s 2025 Dealer of the Year Award—further reinforcing the excellence within the LMC network.
Showcasing Innovation and Rewarding Excellence
The New Products Area drew significant attention, with dealers voting for the most innovative products in the industry. Out of 20 entries, first place was awarded to Weyerhaeuser’s Gator Bar, second place went to DeWalt for their Grabber Lifter Tool, and third place was Zahbuilt’s Cooler Cabinet highlighting the continuous advancements in building materials.
A Grand Finale: Celebration Under the Arizona Sky
The event concluded with an unforgettable Evening Celebration at The Corona Ranch, Arizona's premier venue for Mexican and Western Rodeo events. Set against the stunning backdrop of South Mountain, attendees immersed themselves in an authentic Southwestern experience featuring a private concert, tastings, and Western-inspired games, closing out the 90th Annual in true celebratory fashion.
Looking to the Future
Reflecting on the success of the event, LMC President & CEO Paul Ryan stated, "LMC’s 90th Annual was a testament to the strength, resilience, and commitment of our dealer network. For nine decades, LMC has stood as a pillar of support for independent dealers, helping them grow and succeed. As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to driving innovation, fostering strong partnerships, and continuing the legacy of excellence that has defined LMC since 1935."
Elaborating on the excitement of the Annual, Don Swanson, the President of Plywood Supply in Kenmore, Washington noted, “For 90 years, LMC has been more than just a network of the best in the business—it has been a driving force for growth, collaboration, and shared success. Through strong partnerships and collective purchasing power, LMC has empowered its members to thrive, fostering innovation, lasting relationships, and continued prosperity. Each year, the Annual and Expo provide fertile ground for new opportunities—where connections are made, ideas are exchanged, and the seeds of success are planted. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we honor the legacy of those who built the foundation we stand on today and look ahead, inspired to shape an even brighter future together.”
Joe Miles, President of rk Miles in West Hatfield, Massachusetts and new Chairman of the Board said, “The LMC Annual is such an exciting event because of the valuable opportunities it offers. This is a great chance to explore new products, connect with our key suppliers to discuss plans for the coming year, and address operational and supply challenges alongside fellow dealers. Additionally, having the opportunity to meet and engage with the LMC team in person helps maintain and strengthen our working relationships, which is essential to our continued success. We appreciate all the effort that goes into making this event happen and always look
forward to making the most of it.”
As LMC marks its 90th year, it remains a dominant force in the LBM industry, boasting the largest forest products trading floor, over 1,000 manufacturer-direct programs, and the industry's lowest expense ratio. The LMC dealer network represents over $27 billion in combined retail sales, reinforcing its status as a leader in the market.
Looking ahead, the next LMC Annual will take place in Chicago, IL, from March 10-12, 2026, marking the cooperative’s 91st anniversary and setting the stage for another year of growth and innovation.