Wood Component Manufacturers Change With the Times

In his final annual market outlook for the wood component industry, which appeared in the “Component Trends” column in the January 2013 issue of National Hardwood Magazine, Steve Lawser - who just retired as executive director of the Wood Component Manufacturers Association (WCMA) after 30 years – shared his optimism for the industry. Based on a recent WCMA Dimension & Components Market Study, wood components manufacturers that weathered a crushing economic downturn and the onslaught of import competition are well positioned to take advantage of rising demand for wood components.

In his article, Mr. Lawser points out that the market study indicates, among other things, a “strong trend toward producing more customized products [high-end cabinets, furniture and millwork] as a way to compete with the large-volumes of standard component and finished products that are being imported from China, Southeast Asia, Latin America and other low-cost producers.”

The study also identifies a trend toward smaller customers ordering specialized products, on a quick-turnaround basis. Domestic suppliers are better positioned geographically to respond more rapidly to their customers’ needs and have grown more agile in meeting smaller, custom orders.

We at Franklin Adhesives & Polymers also are well positioned to help our customers in the wood components industry meet the demand for quick turnaround. We are based in the central U.S., and have regional distribution centers for quick product shipment to customers across North America. We offer a wide range of wood adhesives products to meet specific bonding needs – and are able to customize formulations as needed. We also maintain a veteran team of technical support experts to ensure our customers quick access to the help they need to avoid any delays in production.

Like the wood components manufacturers that have evolved to meet today’s market demands, we pride ourselves on staying responsive to our customers’ changing needs. Best of luck in your endeavors!