Interior finish contractors operate on the razor’s edge of construction schedules. From framing and drywall to specialty finishes, tight timelines and thin margins leave zero room for surprises. Simultaneously, distributors are juggling supply-chain volatility, freight fluctuations, and inventory risks. In an industry this complex, data isn’t just “nice to have”—it’s a competitive advantage.
Participating in the annual market conditions survey is the most effective way for you to sharpen your decision-making and strengthen your market position.
Turning Experience into Industry Intelligence
The AWCI–FMI Trends Report is one of our industry’s most vital tools, but it only exists because of members like you. Your daily challenges and expectations shape the roadmap for where the wall and ceiling industry is headed. When you participate, you aren’t just filling out a survey, you are strengthening the entire professional community.
Lessons from the 2025 Report
Last year’s data revealed critical “perception gaps” that impact your bottom line:
- Differing Outlooks: Contractors were largely optimistic about the year ahead, while manufacturers and suppliers expressed deeper concerns regarding demand.
- Market Shifts: Insights highlighted massive growth in data centers and healthcare, alongside the rising roles of AI and prefabrication.
- Alignment: By identifying where contractors and suppliers misunderstand each other’s challenges, we can build smoother supply chains and more aligned project expectations.
Membership Sentiment Index (MSI)
Your 2026 input also fuels the AWCI Membership Sentiment Index (MSI). This tool tracks industry confidence across economic outlook and demand, labor productivity and capacity, and cost pressures. With your contribution, the MSI becomes a more accurate benchmark you can use to guide your own firm’s decisions on hiring, investment, and long-term planning.
Our goal is to ensure the 2026 report reflects what is happening in your specific market, rather than relying on outdated narratives or assumptions.
A Perspective from FMI
Paul Trombitas, a partner in FMI’s strategy practice who leads the firm’s Building Products sector team, emphasizes that meaningful member participation is more than just responding to a survey. It is an opportunity to ensure the challenges, opportunities and realities facing contractors, manufacturers and suppliers/distributors are accurately represented.
Trombitas shares that as members of AWCI, this is your chance to directly influence the insights that will guide business planning and strategic decisions across the industry. “We encourage you to take part and ensure your voice is represented in this important effort.” By participating, you are not only sharing your insights, but you are also helping define the road ahead.
Watch your email for this survey launch in early June 2026.
Pete Wilhelms is the president of the Foundation of the Wall and Ceiling Industry and vice president of marketing and product development of Negwer Materials Inc. With support from the Foundation, AWCI partnered with FMI to conduct this comprehensive study of member industry trends.
