The Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry (AWCI), with ongoing support from the Foundation of the Wall and Ceiling Industry, has collaborated with FMI to produce its 2025 Wall and Ceiling Industry Trends Report. This comprehensive survey offers valuable insights to help companies in the sector make strategic business decisions.

The report captures AWCI member companies’ perspectives on the economy, the construction industry, and their own business performance, while also examining strategic priorities, operations, and the top concerns facing contractors, manufacturers, and suppliers.

Key Findings:

Economic Outlook and Growth Segments: More than 70 percent of members expect the economy and construction market to remain stagnant or decline. Data centers and healthcare continue to be seen as the primary growth drivers through 2026.

Labor and Business Concerns: The availability of skilled talent is the top challenge for contractors, with more than 90 percent citing shortages in both craftspeople and field management—second only to the overall economic outlook.

Demand and Strategy: Manufacturers and suppliers report demand for wall and ceiling products falling short of 2024 projections. Contractors are concentrating on increasing market share, while suppliers and manufacturers are prioritizing product expansion.

“This 2025 report is a vital resource for our members, providing a clear view of economic challenges and opportunities in the year ahead,” said Pete Wilhelms, president of the Foundation and vice president of marketing and product development at Negwer Materials Inc. “We are proud to support this initiative, which equips our industry to make informed business decisions.”

“With talent shortages and economic uncertainty at the forefront, this annual research helps AWCI track member sentiment and anticipate potential impacts on the wall and ceiling industry,” added Michael F. Stark, CAE, AWCI CEO.

The full report is now accessible at awci.org/reports-and-trends.