This past week I had the opportunity to visit the International Woodworking Fair in Atlanta, Georgia. The Wood Products Industry is most definitely back on the upswing. New materials, hardware, and equipment were in abundance. It was wonderful to see the number of new and innovative approaches that are being taken to meet the increasing demands of a clientele that also finds itself on the economic rise.
Materials manufacturers are increasing their lines of environmentally sound products and taking new approaches to doing more with less. Vinyl wraps, which have been traditionally thought of as “low end”, are now becoming increasingly realistic and replacing real wood veneers.
Equipment manufacturers have completely embraced CNC (computer numeric control) technology that allows the most advanced automation in even the smallest of shops. This technology allows businesses to decrease their labor costs, increase their material yields, and save time while doing it. This technology is marching forward quickly and making the woodworking industry more precise and versatile.
Hardware manufacturers are likewise moving forward in their product designs. Soft close features have now worked their way into almost every piece of available kitchen hardware from pull out trash bins to complex pantry systems. Innovative hinge designs are making the old standard Euro hinge into a fashion statement.
The woodworking industry prides itself on its creativity and adaptability. Individual craftsmen and businessmen in the industry value the ability to innovate and improve in anticipation of their clients needs.