Wood Industry Summer 2023

CNC Machining Centers GREDA POKER SERIES

POKER V

The POKER V is a flexible and complete solution that meets the production requirements of customers who constantly deal in dynamic market featuring volatile trends.

The standard equipment of POKER V enables the turning, cutting, shaping, sanding and carving operations on a piece in one working cycle at reduced working times, thanks to the jointly processing of the cutting and the sanding units and the absence of tool-changers.

Upon request, POKER V can be equipped with automatic piece loading and unloading systems.

Tenoners VERTONGEN KITCHEN DOOR CELL

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The Profile Compact Kitchen is a fully cnc-controlled moulder with one vertical spindle. All kinds of kitchen stiles and rails can be sticked without manual manipulation between different profiles. The vertical spindle has a length of 300 mm and can wear stacking tools. With a steel table and a cutout for the vertical spindle, profile accuracy is exceedingly high. The Profile can be combined with the Pentho Kitchen in order to become a complete production line.

BACKBONE OF THE CANADIAN ECONOMY

THE CANADIAN ECONOMY is going through an interesting phenomenon at the moment. While the country has not (yet) fallen into a full-fledged recession, there have been signs of economic slowdown. In fact, data from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce talk about “city-sessions,” where individual centres like Toronto and Vancouver are seeing economic issues due to a decrease in spending in response to high interest and inflation.

However, on the micro level, our industry continues to be a shining beacon within the mixed economic data. According to the IBIS World, Canada’s woodworking manufacturing output and sawmill production almost doubled from $9.99 billion in 2016 to $28.4 billion in 2023.

Case in point: Alberta’s 720 Solutions, a modular general contractor, was established to work with governments and non-profits to provide affordable housing alternatives. Our feature showcases their priorities in sustainable development and the recent funding of their Rapid Housing Initiative project by The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

Ellie King

We also feature the best our industry has to offer. Contributing writer and CKCA Executive Director Sandra Wood spoke with Ben Gravelle, managing director of Gravelle Woodworking Ltd., about the 42-year-old business and its commitment to creating custom kitchens for Canadians.

Speaking of commitment, our spotlight on Lakeview Millwork, the Mississauga-based millwork construction company, and its most prized project — The Burlington Performing Arts Centre — is a must read. The $1 million project was a real test, and sense of pride, for the family-owned business that had taken over the company around the time of the project.

One of the more unique businesses we cover is Ontario’s Black Capped Designs. Their process includes the use of laser cutting technology to curate and craft layered 3D wooden maps to enhance interior design.

And don’t forget about the AWFS Fair 2023. Our summer issue goes into great detail about what attendees can anticipate. Product lineups including the latest machinery, tools, and software solutions, and opportunities to learn from industry experts, are all part of this exciting Las Vegas event.

Interested in adding to our conversation surrounding Canadian businesses transforming our industry? If you’d like your business featured in Wood Industry/ Le monde du bois’ e-digest or seasonal magazine, reach out to me at elliek@mediaedge.ca.

PUBLISHER

Mike Neeb miken@mediaedge.ca

EDITOR

Ellie King elliek@mediaedge.ca

PRESIDENT Kevin Brown kevinb@mediaedge.ca

PRODUCTION MANAGER Ines Louis Inesl@mediaedge.ca

ART DIRECTOR Annette Carlucci annettec@mediaedge.ca

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Thuy Huynh roxyh@mediaedge.ca

CIRCULATION circulation@mediaedge.ca

Wood Industry is published four times an nually, Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter, for the secondary wood products manufacturing and marketing industries in Canada. Subscriptions are free to qualified participants in Canada’s secondary wood processing industry. Subscribe at www. woodindustry.ca. Paid subscriptions rates: $40 to Cana dian addresses, $60 U.S. and foreign, $20 student rate. Please mail payment to Wood Industry, 2001 Sheppard Avenue East, Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M2J 4Z8 For subscription inquiries, e-mail circulation@mediaedge.ca

© 2023 by MediaEdge Communications

All rights reserved. MediaEdge Communications and Wood Industry disclaim any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or currency of the contents of this publication and disclaims all liability in respect to the results of any action taken or not taken in reliance upon information in this publication. The opinions of the columnists and writers are their own and are in no way influenced by or representative of the opinions of Wood Industry or MediaEdge Communications

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Canfor Experiences

$208.5 million loss

Vancouver sawmill and integrated forest manufacturing corporation, Canfor, has reported a $208.5 million loss in the first quarter of 2023. Just last year, during the fourth quarter of 2022, the company reported a loss of $308 million. Canfor notes that inflation and pricing pressure on their Western Canadian facilities has outweighed and impacted the company’s earnings from their European operations as well as fairly modest earnings from their Southern United States operations.

North America’s lumber market conditions have been experiencing the most pressure and financial impact throughout 2023. Residential construction processes were in line with Canfor’s 2022 quarter, however, continued to be affected by housing affordability issues in relation to inflation and high interest rates. The ongoing housing crisis has slightly improved demand in the residential repair sector. Canfor anticipates future challenges for the global lumber market into 2023’s second quarter. However, Don Kayne, president and CEO of Canfor, explained that consistent demand driven by aging housing stock will be strong despite inflation. Kayne stated, “This was another challenging quarter for our lumber business. Strong earnings from our European operations and more modest earnings from our U.S. South operations were overshadowed by ongoing weakness in Western Spruce/Pine/ Fir lumber pricing, which resulted in further temporary capacity reductions across our Western Canadian sawmills. In addition, we announced

and began implementing a restructuring of our British Columbian lumber operations to better align manufacturing capacity with the available long-term fiber supply.”

Kayne continued, “Despite improved earnings, this was also a difficult quarter for our pulp business, driven by the wind down of the pulp line at the Prince George Pulp and Paper mill,” Kayne added. “While these restructuring decisions for both our lumber and pulp business will create a more sustainable operating footprint for Canfor going forward, we sincerely regret the impact on our employees, their families, contractors and our local communities.”

sion about Muskoka Cabinet Co. and how the company is striving to refine a new profit-sharing program so that its production employees can make more money while simultaneously investing in its latest round of robots. Elias will discuss these initiatives on November 2. Muskoka Cabinet Co. has become one of North America’s most technologically advanced woodworking companies to date.

Under Elias’ leadership, the business was an early adopter of nestedbased manufacturing and installed its very-first production robots in 2015. “We’ve done some amazing things in recent years with our automated panel processing system and automated finishing line,” Elias said. “The last piece of the production puzzle is automating cabinet assembly.”

WMS Returns for 2023

The Woodworking Machinery & Supply Conference & Expo (WMS) is back for 2023. After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event will return this year from November 2-4 at the International Centre in Mississauga, Ontario. The expo will be held in conference hall one and two with the same exhibit formula as previous years.

WMS has been held for over four decades and the annual conference welcomes Canadian woodworking professional buyers and presents them with the opportunity to connect with esteemed manufacturers and suppliers in the industry. The expo has attracted attendees from nine different provinces and two territories.

One of the most anticipated presentations at the WMS conference will be Luke Elias’ keynote panel discus -

Elias draws inspiration from the automobile industry and how modernized and advanced it is. “The more I talk to people about why we are adopting the automobile industry’s model, the more people who get it,” Elias said. “This industry in Canada employs more people than the automobile industry does — way more. But what do most people think when they think about how kitchen cabinets are made? They don’t think of it as advanced factories, lucrative careers, and an appealing work environment. We’re out to change all of these perceptions at Muskoka.”

Exhibitors and attendees will receive updated information regarding the 2023 event shortly. CCI Canada and Corcoran Expositions have collaborated to manage the 2023 WMS event. Attendees will be treated to several educational sessions and witness keynote speakers on the live stage.

The WMS expo is an event for woodworking professionals in hardware, wood components, home organization, panel processing machinery, CNC machinery, raw materials, solid wood processing machinery, cutting tools, sanding and finishing, computer software, portable power tools, wood waste management and dust collection.

Woodworking Technology Days Event this Fall

Once again, members of the Canadian Woodworking Machinery Distributors Association (CWMDA) are pleased to invite industry leaders to join them for the fourth edition of the Woodworking Technology Days (WTD), which will be held from Tuesday, October 31st to Saturday November 4th 2023 in different showrooms located in Mississauga and Brampton.

Over the years, the WTD has clearly established itself as a different type of event, focusing on production and specialized machinery, with a personalized and professional approach. The fact is that, with the combination of CWMDA members’ extensive showrooms, a visitor can see a much wider range of products and impressive demos from world leading brands. No other Canadian event can present as much. For those who did not have a chance to visit LIGNA this year, the WTD often features several of the machinery and technological innovations presented there.

“While for many years, companies were running their own independent in-house shows at various times during the fall, the WTD event was created to bring all these efforts together and concentrate in the same period, making it easier for visitors to schedule. This clearly comes with important benefits,” said CWMDA manager, Marc Proulx. “The WTD being a public and open event, customers feel totally comfortable to go around and visit various show -

rooms without any specific commitment.”

The prominent event exhibitors include Akhurst Machinery, Biesse, Felder Group, Homag, IMA Schelling, Normand, SCM, Taurus Craco and Weinig Holzher. WTD invites its guests to visit each of the eight showrooms located in Brampton, Mississauga, and Cambridge. Each showroom will contain a variety of woodworking machines and products as well as live demonstrations. Last year, the event had more than 550 attendees from across Canada.

According to CWMDA, WTD will highlight the machinery and technologies that support woodworking companies in maintaining a competitive edge and combating labour shortages by adopting advanced software and high-performance tooling. Each event day is usually held from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST.

than 20 years. Crafting furniture products from high quality wood, the company primarily manufactures veneers such as burls and exotic woods. Kianfar is now a director at large for AWMAC Ontario. Passalent has been the president and owner of Crescent Cabinets for over 18 years. Crescent Cabinets is a Hamilton, Ontario-based manufacturer of specialized millwork and cabinets for residential, commercial, and industrial markets. Passalent has been assigned an AMWAC Ontario director.

Rowe has been working with Alexandria Moulding as the product line manager since 2019. Alexandria Moulding is a leading manufacturer and distributor of composite and wood mouldings across North America. Rowe will be joining Kianfar and Passalent as an AMWAC Ontario director.

AWMAC Ontario Announces Addition of Three New Board Members

The Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association’s Ontario chapter welcomed three new board members to their association in April. AWMAC Ontario announced that the additions were all directors and included Mohssen Kianifar of Salzburg Interiors, Livio Passalent of Crescent Cabinets and Ian Rowe of Alexandria Moulding.

Kianifar is a project manager at Salzburg Interiors and has been for over five years. Salzburg Interiors & Furniture supplies premium household products and has been serving Canadians for more

AWMAC Ontario comprises a number of leading manufacturers in the woodworking industry that govern and install architectural millwork, stairwork, rails, wall and ceiling panels, doors and cabinets, casework, countertops and restoration work. AWMAC Ontario has over 140 members in six different categories including: manufacturer member, associate member, life member, design authority member, allied member and installer member. AWMAC Ontario works in conjunction with the other AWMAC chapter partners to promote the industry.

As of now, the 2023 AWMAC Ontario Board of Directors includes Nick Anastas (president), Karyna Cheng (vice president and GIS director), Ian Christie (National director), Onorio Centofanti (secretary/treasurer), Philip Roy (membership director), Joe Jubran (social director), Livio Passalent (GIS director alternative), Mike Sanchez (director at large), Bill Kocjancic (director at large), Ian Rowe (director at large), Mohssen Kianifar (director at large).

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FROM MINES TO MODULAR

720 Solutions’ wood-based modular design is transforming construction

By Joel Kranc, Wood Industry Contributing Writer

The global modular construction market was valued at $131.1 billion in 2021, and is projected to reach $234.7 billion by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 6.1 per cent from 2022 to 2031, according to Allied Market Research. Modular construction is a process in which an off-site construction of a building is completed, using the same design, standards, and materials. The construction of the buildings is completed in a modules format, which is then put together on site.

The enormous growth of this construction method is not lost on 720 Solutions, a modular general contractor based in Alberta. The company is the brainchild of Troy Ferguson, who operated a work camp operation and catering business. Craig Mitchell is a partner in the business and project development director. “720 Solutions was born over the last couple of years

from a need for affordable housing,” says Mitchell. “It came out of the resource sector where ‘workcamp-type assets’ were being underutilized. With the rise in affordable housing issues and the need for temporary housing in a lot of metropolitan areas, 720 Solutions was looking at re-purposing these camp assets to solve homelessness issues and provide transitional housing.”

Generally, those work-camp assets originate as part of remote mining or resource-sector operations that house workers temporarily and then once the housing is no longer needed, is put in a holding area until the next project.

720 SOLUTIONS’ BIGGEST PROJECTS BASED IN THE MARITIMES

Despite being an Alberta-based company many of its biggest and earliest

THE ADVANTAGE IS IN THE PROCESS. WE HAVE A METHODOLOGY THAT IS DIFFERENT THAN CONVENTIONAL CONSTRUCTION. WE BRING EVERYONE TO THE TABLE AT THE BEGINNING OF THE PROJECT AND EVERYONE HAS A SAY.”

projects have started in the Maritimes. Besides the work camps that were already in circulation, “some of the clients started asking for new transitional housing rather than used and so we put a team together to work with some of the non-profits out there and our first four-storey project was in Charlottetown on a four story supportive housing project for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).”

As a result of their work there, they became project lead, working with the owner (CMHA) and managing the project from soup to nuts, including working with crews, architects and providing oversight. “We smooth out the lumps and make it easier for manufacturers to build,” adds Mitchell.

720 Solutions modular building in construction process

“THE MARKET IS MORE MATURE IN WESTERN CANADA WHEN IT COMES TO MODULAR CONSTRUCTION. IN THE MARITIMES AND ONTARIO WE ARE SEEING FRAGMENTED EXPERTISE. [OUR VALUE IS THAT] WE ARE ABLE TO CONSOLIDATE OUR EXPERTISE UNDER ONE UMBRELLA TO DEVELOP PROJECTS.

CMHC SUPPORT FOR MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

That was the true beginning of their new venture, which Mitchell says was funded by “boot-strapping.” The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corpora-

PANEL PROCESSING SOLUTIONS

tion (CMHC) funded this particular CMHA project under a program called Rapid Housing Initiative, which funds affordable housing projects across Canada based on applicant need.

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This first project put 720 Solutions on the map, and they were able to receive another contract with the province of P.E.I, taking more work camp housing and creating two homeless shelters for the province. The camps were relocated from Alberta, set-up, and in use within 60 days of the contract to house a total of 100 people in two buildings.

“All modular construction is woodbased,” explains Mitchell, with less than two per cent waste. It’s greener and more efficient, he stresses. Most of the products in use are dimensional and engineered lumber. Because the National Building Code will demand more responsibility and a lower carbon footprint, Mitchell says his company is well positioned to accommodate the new focus on the environment.

“The market is more mature in Western Canada when it comes to modular construction projects,” he says. “In the Maritimes and Ontario we are seeing fragmented expertise. [Our value is that] we are able to consolidate our expertise under one umbrella to develop projects. The advantage is in the process. We have a methodology that is different than conventional construction. We bring everyone to the table at the beginning of the project and everyone has a say.”

The strategy going forward is to focus on non-profit or non-governmental organizations and build affordable housing opportunities for that particular sector, says Mitchell. “Generally, our focus tends to be transitional or temporary housing and modular works quite well. That focus resonates because it’s government-funded and there is a desire to accelerate housing.”

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Joel Kranc is an experienced and award-winning editor, writer and communications professional. With more than 26 years of experience, Joel has covered a variety of topics in the finance and B2B space.

Building Trust. Creating Together.

“OUR NICHE IS DELIVERING TURNKEY MODULAR BUILDING PROJECTS FROM DESIGN THROUGH OCCUPANCY.”

Since 1952, SCM has been a rm leader in the woodworking machinery. Now 70 years later, the innovation continues as you can purchase a selection of products directly through SCM Canada using our e-commerce store.

Your favourite state-of-the-art woodworking technology is just a click away. Discover shopscm.ca today.

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HIGHLIGHTING THE 2023 WOODEN GLOBE AWARD WINNERS

Showcasing woodworking professionals leading the industry

By Ellie King, Editor, Wood Industry Magazine

Events in the woodworking industry are frequent and each plays its part in showcasing professionals, manufacturers and the technologies, and tools that continuously progress the sector forward. The Wooden Globe Awards are held annually to spotlight certain companies and products to Woodworking Industry Conference (WIC) audience members. The winners were announced at the conference on April 26, 2023. Each finalist was required to prepare a brief presentation on a teleconference to the awards committee. There are three Wooden Globe Award categories which include: “Commitment to Excellence Through Technology,” “Women in Woodworking” and “Educator of the Year.”

Technology is undoubtedly a critical facet of woodworking and allows companies and professionals to work smarter. When utilized effectively and consistently, that effort does not go unrecognized. The “Commitment to Excellence Through Technology” category winner was presented to Harbour City Kitchens’s managing director,

Craig Bryden. The award recognizes companies and professionals that manage them and are dedicated to innovating and investing in new woodworking machinery solutions. Bryden and Harbour City Kitchens received this award to highlight their continued efforts to add revolutionary machinery and tools that give the company at a competitive

advantage to successfully compete and lead in today’s global market.

EXCELLENCE THROUGH TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

The “Commitment to Excellence Through Technology” award was the first for Harbour City Kitchens. Presented to Bryden by Automatech Ro-

botik CEO, Tommy Gagnon, Bryden spoke of his pride in receiving the accolade for his company stating, “Our feeling was that we received the award because it opens doors for small to midsized cabinetry companies into the automated batch-size-one world. There are more advanced and complex systems available that would achieve a similar result, but they are just not financially attainable for the average company.”

Established in the 1960s by Bob Philipchalk, Harbour City Kitchens began as a small cabinetry company with a sizable dream. Today, the kitchen cabinetry manufacturer is managed by the fourth generation of Philipchalk’s sons along with partner, Bryden, crafting superior cabinetry solutions. In order to achieve precision in design and production of their products, the founders knew that utilizing breakthrough machinery was vital. “We are currently using several different solutions throughout the company. From our automated material handling system, robotic CNC and dowelling system and robotic sanding through to our software connected production tracking with RFID technology, we are continuously improving upon our systems,” explained Bryden.

It was, however, Harbour City Kitchen’s most recent project for the robotic cell that garnered the attention and nomination from Gagnon and the Wooden Globe Awards. Harbour City Kitchens added an Automate Tech Robotik arm to their machinery line up recently. “One of our CNCs is operatorless and is operated with a robotic arm that does the dowelling insertion and then sends the material down to the edge bander, which then goes to assembly and is prepared for shipping,” Bryden noted. Harbour City Kitchens has also been partnering with Homag for a number of years which helped secure the company’s chances to connect with leaders in automation and software technology.

As for the future of Harbour City Kitchens and their commitment to technology, Bryden explained, “We are currently just finishing up construction of an additional 4,000 square-foot space that will be used for a new display cen-

tre for our door and colour samples as well as some much-needed office space. We are also in the preliminary discussions on a new robotic part sorting cell on the production floor.”

MAKING HER MARK

The achievements of women in woodworking are endless and the commitment to breaking barriers each day is transforming the industry. The “Woman in Woodworking” award category celebrated females who consistently demonstrate excellence in motivating and leading the future of women woodworkers and utilizing technological solutions to help them get there. The winner has made their presence and impact known in the manufacturing, importing and distribution markets. This year’s “Woman in Woodworking” winner was Samantha Gurrola, project executive and estimator for Illinois-based panelling and architectural woodwork manufacturer, Parenti & Raffaelli.

The award was nominated by Mariah Jones, fellow co-worker and project manager at Parenti & Raffaelli. “I went to school at Pittsburgh State University for architectural manufacturing management and technology and I was the only female out of 40 guys in this degree. Then, I met Samantha through her coming to the school to recruit and it was amazing to have a woman to look up to both in the industry and as a friend,”

explained Jones on how she first met Gurrola. It was Gurrola’s patience and passion for woodworking that inspired Jones and so many other women. And why Jones chose to nominate her for the award.

“She is so giving to the industry, and she absolutely loves it. She doesn’t just tip her toes in, she jumps in the water,” noted Jones. Speaking about her firstplace win, Gurrola stated, “My main goal for the industry is to make it better for the next generation and for those that are coming up behind me, male or female. But, as we all know, this is a male-dominated industry, so it is great to be honoured as a woman by a fellow great woman in the industry.”

Gurrola is the great-granddaughter of Parenti & Raffaelli’s founder, Peter Parenti who urged his sons to establish the company in 1951 to deliver premium woodworking and finishing solutions to Chicago and across North America. She is continuing his legacy by leading the company into the future while carrying on the family tradition.

“It’s wonderful to be recognized because I really do think that it’s so important for us to promote our industry and get the next generation involved and interested. I try to attend as many seminars, conferences and educational opportunities to talk about how great wood really is,” Gurrola concluded.

Pascal Doucet, president of the WMIA & CWMA, Craig Bryden of Harbour City Kitchens & Tommy Gagnon of Automate Tech Robotik

EDUCATION IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS

Education paves the way for professionals and their companies to flourish. Honouring that was critical to the WIC and The “Educator of the Year” prizewinner was Jesse Mullet, president of nuCamp University. The award recognizes an educational institution and educator with an orderly curriculum for training students and preparing them for future careers within the woodworking industry. Mullet was celebrated for his ability to advocate for the future of the sector with hands-on training and stateof-the-art technology.

In 2021, nuCamp’s Service Center and Training Academy was being built to fulfill Mullet’s ultimate visionto support nuCamp and his local community. His story is certainly rare. Growing up in an Amish community,

Mullet understands the importance of hard work and serving a community at an early age. Those values are what made him both an awardwinner and a proud business owner. The nuCamp academy has 15 learning spaces within its 50,000-squarefoot facility and teaches young adults how to effectively handle machinery and tools.

“It’s more than just that,” Mullet explained. “It’s learning how business works. I want these kids to be able to learn life skills! To learn how to connect with people. To learn how to feel emotion and how to communicate. I want this Service Center to impact the community in a positive

way. And that, in turn, will ripple out and touch the world. I want to create a legacy that matters.” The training academy helps its young technicians achieve certificates and specialized training on the company’s teardrop trailers and campers.

The Wooden Globe Awards presents a platform for the notable successes and achievements of a number of professionals, products and companies in the woodworking industry. The WMIA has been supporting importers and distributors of woodworking machinery in North America since 1978. The association is essentially the global link between wood and furniture manufacturers that bonds it all together.

Ellie King is the Editor of Wood Industry / Le monde du bois magazine and weekly E-digest. She has years of experience in B2B writing and editing and is empowered by the opportunity to share the marvels, pitfalls and weekly news of Canada’s secondary wood industry with our readers.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: “Woman in Woodworking” winner Samantha Gurrola. “Educator of the Year” winner Jesse Mullet. “Commitment to Excellence Through Technology” winner Craig Bryden.

MORE THAN JUST PRODUCTS WITH US.

WMS has connected Canada’s professional woodworking industry with the world’s most prominent machinery manufacturers, material suppliers, hardware companies and other services and products for more than four decades.

Can’t miss WMS 2023 features:

• WMS Live – On-the-show-floor presentation stage offering free education sessions to attendees on a range of timely manufacturing, technology and other hot topics.

• Bustling Expo Floor - With more than 65,000 square feet filled with major machinery manufacturers, distributors, and materials, software and supply companies, you are sure to discover something you could use for your shop.

• Happy Hour Events – The first two days of the show will conclude with an opportunity to unwind with a drink and talk shop with fellow attendees.

For general conference and show information: Harry Urban | Woodworking Network harry.urban@woodworkingnetwork.com (708) 373-4344

AWFS FAIR IS BACK WITH A BANG

The renowned Association of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers (AWFS) Fair is returning to the live stage this July from 25-28. As North America’s largest networking event and expo for woodworking equipment and technology, AWFS welcomes businesses and professionals from across the industry to join.

This event is where so many attendees are introduced to new machinery, products, and technology for the very first time, even before they hit the global market. Some of the largest selection of hardware, tooling, power tools, components, manufacturing software, lumber, panel and construction material, furniture, cabinetry, and millwork solutions will be at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Attendees can take advantage of unparalleled networking opportunities by meeting up with fellow woodworking professionals, and seeking and sharing advice. In 2021, the fair booked more than 400 companies. This year, AWFS boasts a floorplan that’s 90 per cent sold out with even more exhibitors than 2021. The 2023 fair plan has been revised to a Tuesday to Friday show day pattern with the distributor and dealer day on Monday.

“Unlock the extraordinary at the North American woodworking event of the year, where we will proudly welcome over 135 first-time exhibitors and a remarkable 32 per cent increase in exhibitors from the 2021 Fair. Get ready for an exhilarating experience filled with fresh perspectives, groundbreaking solutions and limitless opportunities,” urges Amy Bartz-Simmons, AWFS®Fair director of Sales.

CWWK’S EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM

AWFS Fair’s educational program offers attendees knowledge and detailed business information to assist during these challenging times. The College of Woodworking Knowledge (CWWK)

provides comprehensive coverage of pertinent industry issues and news along with providing solutions and best practices to help businesses and sector professionals to advance forward. The program’s layout includes keynote speakers that will discuss the industry in detail with a focus on loT concepts and robotics this year. Some of the program tracks include Business Management, Cabinet Millwork & Furniture, and Innovation & Technology.

CNC BOOTCAMP

The fair’s CNC Bootcamp is moderated and led by Will Sampson, editorial director of FDMC. The intensive workshop offers participants who are new to CNC machinery and manufacturing the chance to learn about and even buy their first-ever CNC machine. Attendees can learn all about

how to operate the machine, handle any dust collection and vacuum issues and develop a better understanding of the equipment’s software.

THE CLOSETS SYMPOSIUM

Editor of Closets & Organized Storage, Michaelle Bradford, is moderating The Closets Symposium at the AWFS Fair. The program is specific for designers, fabricators, retailers, and installers to learn about trending designs, marketing and business topics in the industry. Registration for the symposium opened in May.

Sponsorship and signage opportunities are still available for prospective exhibitors. If you still want to register as either an attendee, press, student/educator or international attendee, you can visit awfsfair.org.

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BRANDS OF DISTINCTION

CASADEI E550 PM CR

The Casadei E550 PM CR Automatic Edgebander with chain feeding system for Maximum finishing quality.

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• Corner rounding unit (E550PMCR)

• 3 free spaces for finishing units

CASADEI E450 PM

E450 PM Automatic Edgebander with holt- melt glue pot (EVA), chain panel, feeding and pre-milling.

• Chain feeding system

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CASADEI E321

The Casadei E321 Automatic Edgebander with hot- melt glue pot (EVA) and belt panel feeding

• Very good bonding

• Ready to use in a few minutes

• Easy cleaning and maintenance

• Quick edge changing

The Fimal Concept 350 PLUS Saw is a revolution in cutting, offering the advantages of a beam saw along with the versatility of a panel saw and taking up 50% less space than a traditional circular saw.

The Fimal S63A Planer has a reliable system for feeding the workpiece through with three large-diameter rollers mounted on independent connecting rods and ball bearings that grant an efficient and constant feed with all types of wood.

The Fimal P3200 AX Sliding Table Saw has a carriage sliding system with large bearings that roll along hardened and ground prismatic tracks. Mechanical machining operations carried out on numerically controlled machines, mean stability, no vibration, excellent sliding and straight cutting.

Taurus Craco is pleased to represent CASADEI and FIMAL in Canada and the United States. US dealer inquires are welcome.

FIMAL P3200AX SLIDING TABLE SAW

FIMAL S63A PLANER

FIMAL CONCEPT 350 PLUS

THE SAME BUT DIFFERENT

Gradual shift in on-trend kitchen cabinetry colours with unexpected addition

By Clare Tattersall, Coverings Editor and Wood Industry Contributing Writer

Akitchen’s colour scheme can set the mood for the heart of the home and make it feel bigger or smaller. Since cabinets are one of the most visible parts of this space, their colour has a profound effect on the room’s final look and feel. For this reason, homeowners generally opt for painted cabinetry over stained or naturally finished wood. In 2022, 74 per cent of Cabico&co’s high-end custom cabinetry was painted, up four per cent from 2021.

While the safest bet for cabinets is white, as evidenced by the number of people who choose this shade when remodeling their kitchens — 59 per cent in 2022, according to Cabico&co’s purchasing data, a year-over-year increase of 14 per cent — a whole host of other colours are taking center stage in the kitchen. Many are the same as last year (and those before), as cabinet colours don’t radically change over a 12-month period given kitchen renovations are long lasting. Colour trends typically last three to five years; however, they shift and expand during this time.

SUBTLE COLOUR CHANGES FOR 2023

For the most part, the changes in 2023 are subtle. Green and blue are among the most popular colour options outside of white. The former really took off last year because it imparts comfort and offers a closeness to nature, both of which consumers are seeking after a significant period of uncertainty wrought by the pandemic. While mid-greens like sage and olive and mint tones were all the rage in 2022, expect to see greater demand for darker, rich greens, even those trending on graphite that can look more gray, black, or green depending on the lighting. This awards it the versatility of a neutral and soothing quality of an earthy hue.

Blue cabinetry has evolved from the grey-blue that was hot in 2021. In 2022, both light and dark shades were in demand, with navy and pastel predominating. A coastal vibe is now starting to take hold, likely influenced by the return of travel. There’s a desire to bring that feeling of escapism into the home and what better way to do so than through blues reminiscent of the sky and seascape that can conjure up the image of a sunnier destination.

Coastal blue cabinetry in modern kitchen

“DESIGN CREATES CULTURE. CULTURE SHAPES VALUES. VALUES DETERMINE THE FUTURE.”

– ROBERT L. PETERS, DESIGNER AND AUTHOR

GREY’S TRANSFORMATION, BLACK’S TIMELESS APPEAL

Once beloved, grey is no longer as stylish as it used to be. This is not to say it’s no longer a crowd-pleaser; rather, it has undergone a transformation. As it leaned warmer, it first became ‘greige’ — a blend of grey and beige — and has now been replaced with mushroom and taupe — both mixtures of brown and grey.

Black cabinetry is still a top trend because it’s timeless, versatile, sophisticated and elevates any kitchen design. But it’s softer and warmer than previous iterations. And while still used to create a tuxedo effect, the non-colour is

being paired more with wood cabinets instead of those painted white for that two-toned look.

New to cabinet paint colours is the addition of rosy undertones and lively reds — both of which originated on walls before making the leap. Paint brands like Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams cite people’s desire to step outside of their comfort zone to express themselves for this warm colour selection.

While most homeowners continue to opt for painted cabinetry, stained or nat-

ural wood cabinets are not obsolete. This is supported by Cabico&co’s purchasing data — 17 per cent of 2022 orders requested this finish. As with paint colours, stain selections wax and wane with time, some falling out of favour while others evolve. For instance, ‘driftwood’ and ‘distressed’ have been used to describe the tone of trendy stain colours over the past several years. Beginning in 2022, warm honey tones and shades experienced a revival, which is now giving way to richer hues reminiscent of whisky, cognac and rye.

Clare Tattersall is an interior designer and decorator in Toronto, and the editor of Canada’s floor covering magazine, Coverings.

“A COLOR SCHEME CAN MAKE OR BREAK AN INTERIOR DESIGN AND IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT IN THE KITCHEN. THE COLORS YOU CHOOSE FOR YOUR APPLIANCES, CABINETS, COUNTERTOPS, AND WALLS WILL DETERMINE HOW WELL THEY MATCH EACH OTHER.”

– EVAN NELSON, OWNER OF NELSON CABINETRY

Olive-toned cabinetry in contemporary kitchen

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COMMITMENT, AND LONGEVITY

Gravelle

By Sandra Wood, Executive Director at the Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association (CKCA)

COMMITMENT, VALUES LONGEVITY

Photo credit: Ryan Fung Photography

Gravelle Woodworking Ltd. is a second-generation manufacturer operated by managing director, Ben Gravelle. The company was started by Ben’s father in 1981 and is now celebrating its 42nd year in business. He took the business over from his father in 2016 and currently has a team of just over 20 employees.

The company builds approximately four to five kitchens a month using a 15,000 square-foot workshop. They sell directly from their showroom which is located in Burlington, Ontario directly beside their workshop. Here they are not only able to sell the products they build but can also show their clients the manufacturing process.

Gravelle does sell to builders, but the biggest component of their business is selling directly to consumers and working on custom new builds and high-end renovations. We recently saw a post on social media of a project Gravelle Woodworking had completed. So, we reached out to ask Gravelle if he would tell us more about the project and why he is particularly proud of what they accomplished.

PROUD OF THEIR VALUES

CANADIAN KITCHEN CABINET ASSOCIATION (CKCA): What are you most proud of about your business?

GRAVELLE: Our reputation in our area, and our company values for the last 40+ years is “uncompromising quality, exceptional service, always beautiful.” I am proud that we still have the reputation for these values.

Ben Gravelle, managing director

FROM CABINETS TO WALL PANELS

CKCA: You recently posted about how proud you are of the Mineral Springs Project, why?

GRAVELLE: The complexity of the project and the end result. Paneling an entire home with textured panels was an immense undertaking, we had to account for all the different types of reveals and how the panels would tie into our cabinetry for a seamless look. The panels were actually 8” too short to cover the whole wall so we had a bottom reveal line with a toe kick that is actually level throughout the entire 4,000 sq. ft. home.

CKCA: What parts of the project did you work on?

GRAVELLE: We built all the cabinetry and included Douglas Fir into a few of the bathroom vanities. We paneled the entire home, there was no drywall on the entire main floor only windows and our panel walls. We built all interior doors to match the textured wall panels.

CKCA: How did the design come about?

GRAVELLE: We worked with Stamp architecture on the overall design/

Customized paneling details in kitchen of Gravelle’s Mineral Springs project

“CUSTOM KITCHENS ARE NOT JUST BUILT-IN PIECES OF FURNITURE IN YOUR HOME, THEY ARE EXTENSIONS OF THE WAY YOU LIVE AND HOW YOU EXPERIENCE YOUR HOME.”

selections and my designer worked with the client to design the cabinetry pieces.

CKCA: What are some of the challenges you had to overcome?

GRAVELLE: Building novel cabinets was one of the hardest things we overcame on almost a weekly basis. Everything from designing, engineering, manufacturing, and installing completely novel

cabinets. We build a lot of one and only pieces and to consistently follow through on each of those departments is an extreme challenge especially to not compromise on any of our company values.

MAXIMIZING ON MINIMALISM

CKCA: What are some of the features of the kitchen in the Mineral Spring project that you would like to highlight?

GRAVELLE: We built full height pocket doors for a finished interior pantry. Angled toe kick on the island. Interior cabinet lighting with IR sensors, Full drawer knife storage. Down draft hood. The sink and stove are both in the island.

CKCA: Given the natural spring and old growth forest that was the backdrop to this home, did the client ask for environmental features to be incorporated into the design?

GRAVELLE: The client was focused on natural wood in particular Douglas Fir which we used several times in creating the bathroom vanities.

CKCA: Did you learn anything from this project that you can use for other projects in the future?

GRAVELLE: Yes, we developed a way to install 3/4” panels with all the correct reveals as wall cladding.

CKCA: What finishes do you use?

GRAVELLE: We mainly use solvent-based, but we do use some water-based clear coats.

CKCA: The design for this project has a minimalist feel, are you being asked for more designs like that?

GRAVELLE: Yes, we are, especially walnut. I do see this increasing; I find more and more customers are

“ALTHOUGH I DID NOT START GRAVELLE WOODWORKING, I DID GROW UP IN IT. THIS HAS LEFT ME WITH A PROFOUND SENSE OF COMMITMENT TO WHAT MY FATHER BUILT AND THE CORE VALUES HE INSTILLED IN GRAVELLE WOODWORKING.”

– BEN GRAVELLE

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leaning towards minimalism even if it isn’t a full headfirst leap. The trend, as I see it, leans in that direction.

THE THING ABOUT CUSTOM

CKCA: What are your thoughts on the custom kitchen versus the RTA built kitchen?

GRAVELLE: Truly custom kitchens are not just built-in pieces of furniture in your home, they are extensions of the way you live and how you experience your home. A custom kitchen is built to match your design taste, your cooking style or entertainment needs and most of all, built as the centre of your home.

Building anything custom takes an immense amount of thought for all aspects and anyone who has built a custom kitchen will tell you there is an extraordinary amount of time spent before one single cut is made to make sure your project is built to spec and will last a lifetime. Anything that is built in mass production disperses that engineering cost over many jobs while us custom shops have to bill it to one.

LOOKING AHEAD

CKCA: Where does automation fit into your business?

GRAVELLE: We definitely are on this road as well. The challenges we face are picking the right project at the right time and balancing the shop as some areas automate and speed up trying to manage the workflow between departments.

CKCA: What plans do you have for the future of your business?

GRAVELLE: We plan to continue our lean journey in hopes of soon automating more of our software and adding another CNC.

CKCA: Any final thoughts you’d like to share about your company?

Customized bathroom sink in Gravelle Woodworking’s Mineral Springs Project

“WE TOOK ON A CHALLENGE AND NEVER COMPROMISED ON OUR BUSINESS VALUES.”

GRAVELLE: Although I did not start Gravelle Woodworking, I did grow up in it. This has left me with a profound sense of commitment to what my father has built and the core values he instilled into the company.

I am honoured to be in the position of leading this company and have hopes to pass it along to my children as my father did with me.

Sandra Wood is the executive director of the Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association (CKCA). Her experience in the association world has spanned over 30 years.

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LAKEVIEW MILLWORK TAKING ITS BOW

Looking back on the project that revitalized the Mississauga manufacturer

By Matthew Bradford, Wood Industry Contributing Writer

It’s been five years since ownership changed hands at Lakeview Millwork. And to celebrate this early milestone, company directors Dhwani Patel and Tarak Prajapati are taking an encore look at the project that helped put their team in the Canadian woodworking spotlight.

“The Burlington Performing Arts Centre renovations was a very special project for us,” says Dhwani Patel, Director with the Mississauga-based company. “It was a million-dollar job, and it was important to us both because of its size and the quality of work we were able to provide.”

That work included providing over 14,000 square feet of wood panelling for the Centre’s new floors, ceilings, and walls. Specifically, Lakeview

used maple veneer with MDF core and solid maple wood to craft the Centre’s modern look and, most notably, its curvaceous ceiling.

“Not only was the scale of this project huge, but the overall design, including the wave effect of the ceiling, was very unique,” adds Tarak Prajapati, Director with the company, adding, “And then, being able to use maple wood with a stain finish was a nice touch because it added that symbol of Canada.”

Lakeview Millwork company directors, Dhwani Patel and Tarak Prajapati

Looking back, Prajapati says installing the ceiling panels with aircraft suspension cables proved to be the most challenging aspect of the job. Not only did it require matching exact specifications, but it meant putting safety centre stage.

A SYMBOL OF SUCCESS

“All of those panels are around 30 feet high, and we needed to make sure they were fastened and secured the right way, and according to AWMAC [Architectural Woodwork Manufacturing Association of Canada] standards,” says Patel. “The most im-

portant part was making sure not a single panel would come out because that would pose a very big safety hazard for the audience.”

It was a challenging befitting of Lakeview Millwork’s talents. And five years later, the team looks back on the project with a sense of pride.

– KRISTENE SMITH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF TOURISM BURLINGTON

“BURLINGTON HAS A RICH CULTURAL FOOTPRINT, KNOWN FOR ITS ART GALLERY, MUSEUMS, PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE PUBLIC ART, AND CULTURALLY DIVERSE EVENTS.”

Seating area in the Burlington Performing Arts Centre

“The general contractor, Bird Construction, was very happy with the quality of our work and that we finished in a timely and safe manner, and so are we,” says Prajapati.

PUSH INTO HOSPITALITY

Lakeview Millwork has engaged in a number of showcase projects since its time on the Burlington Performing Arts Centre stage. In recent years, the company has made a push into the commercial and hospitality space, providing millwork for the University of Waterloo, Yorkdale Mall, several of Canada’s major banks, childcare centres, golf clubs, and hotels across North America.

With business on the rise, the team is eager to branch out even further into retail and residential projects and build upon its capacity through the purchase of new millwork technologies and systems.

“We want to accommodate all these different sectors, so that means bringing in more equipment, improving our

shop, and becoming more productive so that we can get a competitive advantage,” adds Patel.

With big ambitions and a budding portfolio, it’s safe to say Lakeview’s star is on the rise.

Bradford is a writer, editor, and longtime contributor at MediaEdge’s Wood Industry e-digest and magazine. He has spent years reporting on the wood and construction industries.

Matt

RETENTION THROUGH RECOGNITION

How to express genuine appreciation for your employees

By Amrita Bhogal, People & Culture Leader at Sunrise Kitchens Ltd.

Retention strategies are important to evaluate in your organization. A pillar of retention is recognition. There are many forms of recognition, but the successful and meaningful delivery of it is the most important part in ensuring that it’s don’t correctly. Creating a program is the first step.

When was the last time you were recognized in your organization? Was it authentic and meaningful and did you feel it was provided in a way you would like to receive it? Is this only an annual occurrence during your performance review? These are important factors to consider when creating a recognition program.

We always remember to shine a light on professional milestones, however a holistic approach to recognition is to address personal milestones as well. You want to view your employees as a whole. The program should be built on diversity, inclusion, and equity to ensure recognition is fairly given and received among the organization.

The foundations of a successful program can be built on the following attributes:

1. Equality — recognition given fairly among the team and in a timely manner

2. Meaningful — be authentic in your delivery and ensure it is impactful

3. Personalized — listen to your team and how they want to be recognized

The recognition program can be tied to monetary rewards and therefore building a budget for the program could be useful. However, let’s explore costeffective or free strategies to get started.

STEP 1: IDENTIFY WHAT EVENTS RECEIVE A FORMAL APPRECIATION

There are numerous ways in which recognition can be given and the following can help you identify which events make sense for your organizational culture.

LIFE MILESTONES / PROFESSIONAL MILESTONES

• Birthdays

• Weddings

• Growing family

• Work anniversary

• Acknowledging accomplishments

• Promotions

• Giving credit for ideas

STEP 2: HOW TO DELIVER RECOGNITION IN A MEANINGFUL WAY

A great place to start is verbal messaging. Review your verbal phrases such as, “good job,” we hear this one a lot and as much as it gets the point across, let’s add more authenticity and impactful meaning that really connects to the reason you are providing such appreciation.

Some examples can be:

• Great work on ______________________

• Your idea was spot on, let’s further discuss it

• Thank you for ______________________

Other ways recognition can be delivered:

• Emailing your expressed gratitude

• Forwarding external recognition to your employee

• Creating certificates or acknowledgement letters signed by manager or CEO

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“RECOGNITION IS A REWARD IN ITSELF. ANY FORM OF APPRECIATION, EVEN A SMALL WORD, IS IMPORTANT.”

– ACTOR, VIKRANT MASSEY

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• Mailing out handwritten cards

• Inviting employees to share a meal with you or going out to lunch

• Identifying staff in a newsletter or social media

• Acknowledgement staff in a group setting

• Giving out gift cards or other monetary bonuses

A great way to understand your team is to inquire via a survey about how they like to be recognized. This can help you accumulate additional ideas.

STEP 3 TRAIN YOUR LEADERSHIP TEAM

Once you have completed your recognition program, train your leadership team to help them understand what the purpose is and why this program is vital to implement for the organization. As your leadership team executes this program, the results will naturally show over time and if you’re looking for data, then a survey to your company can also share how the program is doing. Moreover, an annual audit of the program can further help pinpoint any strengths or gaps to review.

And the best advice is to just start no matter how small or big the program is.

Amrita Bhogal is the 3rd generation at Sunrise Kitchens Ltd, with a focus on People and Culture. She is leading change through lean principles and by strengthening culture through values and behaviours.

“MOTIVATING EMPLOYEES TO WORK AT THEIR FULL POTENTIAL IS THE MAIN PREMISE OF SUCCESSFUL MANAGEMENT.”

– AUTHOR, ERALDO BANOVAC

INCREASING SALES THROUGH 12 SIMPLE ACTIONS

The key to increasing business sales through marketing strategies

By Mélanie Laperle, Director of marketing at Violette Marketing

FOCUSING ON INCREASING SALES INCREASE SALES, THE ANALYSIS

STEP #1:

Generating the list of all your current customers including the total sales (the last complete year, ideally) and exporting this in

an Excel table. If the information is available, you can even go further by breaking down the information based on product and even by month. Don’t forget to include complete contact information (ex: name, address, contact, telephone, e-mail, etc.) An Excel table is

an important tool to support an effective work structure and lead to sales success.

STEP #2:

CLASSIFY YOUR CUSTOMERS

Pareto Law / ABC

• Category A: high-potential customers

represent 20 per cent of total customers for 80 per cent of turnover

• Category B: “average” customers represent the following 30 per cent for 15 per cent of turnover

• Category C: low-potential customers represent 50 per cent of customers for 5 per cent of turnover

• By industry (mining, metallurgy, forestry, transport, food, tourism, etc)

• By sector (retail, commercial, industrial, etc)

• By type of customer (dealer, specialized store, supermarket, distributor, etc)

SET GOALS

• Per cent of turnover (For example, 20 per cent increase for the next year)

• Per cent purchase of a customer (For example, we could set a specific objective for each of our clients A)

• A goal to obtain new customers

• A goal of entering new markets

STEP #3: STEP #4:

DISCOVER SUCCESS FACTORS

You must identify why you perform optimally with some clients and not with others. Why do they buy from you? Is it a question of proximity, relationship, a lack of competition in a territory, etc.? This customer advisory board exercise will allow you to create “winning recipes” for different types of customers and buyers.

STEP #5:

IMPROVE SALES PITCH

Highlight the benefits of your business to improve your pitch. To help, I suggest completing the CAB method exercise for each of your products.

Customer Advisory Board (CAB) Method:

A customer advisory board (CAB) is the ideal solution for organizing corporate strategies, collecting input for product development, and strengthening your relationships with key customers. To be effective, a CAB program must be properly established, resourced and managed. To carry out the CAB program, ensure the following:

• Identify key challenges in designing and running a CAB

• Effectively targeting, recruiting, and onboarding new members/employees

• Building mutually beneficial meeting content

• Running effective in-person and remote meetings

• Turning meeting insights into action

• Maintaining board momentum between meetings

• Implementing multiple CAB initiatives

• Measuring program ROI

STEP #6:

CONSIDER COLD CALLS

Even in a digital world, I

consider it very important to pursue sales efforts in a more traditional way, either with cold calls or surprise visits. Effective organizing and structuring of your call periods and implementing certain tips & tricks will contribute to your success.

STEP #7:

KNOW YOUR PRODUCTS BETTER

Always in writing, I suggest highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of your products. You will be better equipped to deal with challenges.

STEP #8:

MAXIMIZE THE POTENTIAL OF YOUR CUSTOMERS

Before looking for new customers, be sure to maximize the potential of our current customers. Let’s find out how to retain them and above all, do not hesitate to ask for references. A satisfied customer will be very proud to refer you to their network.

– JOE CHERNOV, CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER OF PENDO.IO

“GOOD MARKETING MAKES THE COMPANY LOOK SMART. GREAT MARKETING MAKES THE CUSTOMER FEEL SMART.”

TARGET NEW PROSPECTS

Which companies is your business not selling to and should be selling to? What are the new markets where you could stand out? We identify prospects with good potential and add them to our table, in the prospect category. Because yes, we are adding another column, another classification category; Customers / Prospects.

ASK FOR AN INTRODUCTION

For these new prospects, look into your network for THE person who will put you in contact with the company you want to speak with and sell to. Some say, “We are seven contacts away from meeting the Pope”. So, it’s time to get your network going to find the right path to your future customers!

STEP #9: STEP #10: STEP #11:

START SOCIAL SELLING

Social selling allows representatives and entrepreneurs to target their prospects with precision, to establish good rapport and to develop a relationship of trust with them. The behavior of buyers has changed a lot in recent years, to fully understand the phenomenon, consider the following:

Consumer Behaviour Has Changed

Seventy per cent of purchasing decisions are made before a buyer even talks to a company. More than ever before, social media marketers can sway and impact consumer behavior by sharing content that builds interest and trust through these channels.

Internet Searches

Here are the five types of questions cus-

tomers Google, we affectionately name them, the five big questions that kill!

• Prices & costs: “How much does it cost...?”

• Trouble: “What are the negative problems or questions...?”

• Comparison: “How does the product compare to other equivalents available on the market?”

• Reviews: “What does everyone say about the product...?”

• Best in Class: “And which is better?”

How Do Search Engines Work?

The objective of search engines is to give its client (the searcher) the most specific and accurate answer to a question, a need, a problem, a query, etc., for each search. Therefore, if Google wants to give good answers to its customers, and your customers want to be informed, would the best strategy for a company be to adopt a “trainer” mentality? That is, to answer the client’s questions directly?

The most popular network for this tactic is unquestionably LinkedIn, with its 740 million members worldwide in 200 countries. It is also recognized as the largest and best business network on the planet.

Curating A Professional LinkedIn Profile

1. A Professional Cover Photo: Your LinkedIn profile is your business card and The image you use is very important and if you want to do business with pros, your photo must reflect it.

2. Aesthetically pleasing Banner: LinkedIn offers you the possibility of highlighting your brand image and identity. Take the opportunity to use a nice photo of your company, a product or even your logo.

3. Profile Title: It identifies your role in

the company. Here, the words chosen are important for your profile. Individuals search by keywords and it starts with your title.

a. Example: A simple formula; (Title) at (company)- We help / support (target) with (differentiating elements)

4. Fill out Info section: Once visitors understand what you do and who you work for, they need to know about your expertise. The info section allows you to create a description, a biography to highlight yourself. You can use up to 2,000 characters. When writing, think about what your client needs to know from you that may be valuable to them. Also consider adding a “call to action”, by offering to communicate with you or visit your website.

5. Add a Custom URL: This small action will allow you to better reference your profile, it will come out more easily on search engines. It’s also much more professional when you share your link.

STEP #12:

IMPROVE YOUR SEO AND INVEST IN SEM

Ensure that you are well always positioned on Google. SEO always well optimizes your content and the keywords of your website, including blog posts. In the case of SEM, we are referring to AdWords, which requires a little investment in the form of advertising campaigns. In both cases, I strongly suggest connecting with SEO/SEM experts. Several agencies offer these services and the return on investment is well worth it.

Mélanie Laperle is the director of marketing at Violette Marketing. She previously managed social media and website redesign and wrote articles with the agency before this role.

“CONTENT MARKETING IS MORE THAN A BUZZWORD. IT IS THE HOTTEST TREND IN MARKETING BECAUSE IT IS THE BIGGEST GAP BETWEEN WHAT BUYERS WANT AND BRANDS PRODUCE.”

– MICHAEL BRENNER, CEO OF MARKETING INSIDER GROUP

ADVANCING HOW WE NAVIGATE WITH 3D WOODEN MAPS

How 3D layered wooden maps created with a laser cutter have transformed interior design and mapping.

By Lev Uzlaner, Managing Director of Trotec Laser Canada Inc.

Laser cutting technology has revolutionized the crafting and manufacturing industries, enabling intricate, precise, and efficient cuts. One of the most stunning applications of this technology is the creation of layered 3D wooden maps. These topographic creations allow the user to visualize the contours of the land in a whole new way, offering a unique piece of art or a personalized gift.

Black Capped Designs is a home-based woodworking business out of Holland Landing, Ontario. With their passion for woodworking and design, founders Jeff and Sarah have discovered the perfect blend of skill sets, creating beautiful and personalized 3D layered wood maps using their laser machine.

STEPPING INTO THE WORLD OF ENGRAVING

Established in 2021 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Black Capped Designs started as a small woodworking business focusing on tables and benches for local clients. With Jeff's background in commercial and residential carpentry and Sarah's expertise in design, they expanded their horizons and began experimenting with laser cutting and engraving on a smaller scale. Soon, they discovered the potential for more intricate and larger-scale projects, leading them to invest in a Laser machine.

The company quickly gained a reputation for its stunning 3D layered wood maps, made from high-quality Baltic Birch and featuring a Walnut border. These maps depict lakes and other geographical features with precision and depth, providing unique and personal gifts for their clients.

A crucial aspect of their success is the user-friendly Ruby laser software that comes with their Trotec laser machine. With their background in Adobe Illustrator, Jeff, and Sarah have found the transition to Ruby software seamless, allowing them to easily create, edit, and upload their designs for laser cutting and engraving. The software is compatible with any design software and offers a range of settings, including power and speed, for fine-tuning their work.

The following is a step-by-step guide to creating a layered 3D wooden map.

CHOOSE YOUR LOCATION AND SOURCE MAP DATA

The first step in creating a layered 3D map is choosing the geographical area you'd like to depict. This could be a favourite hiking spot, a memorable city, or even a lake, as

showcased by Black Capped Designs. Once you've decided, you'll need to source the topographic data for this area. This data can often be found through various online resources such as OpenStreetMap, Google Earth, or a governmental geographical institute.

STEP #1: STEP #2:

DESIGN YOUR LAYERS

Using design software such

as Adobe Illustrator, process your topographic data into individual layers. Each layer will represent a different elevation level. Depending on the complexity of your terrain and the level of detail you want, you might end up with anywhere from five to more than 20 layers. Make sure to add registration marks to each layer to ensure they line up correctly when assembled.

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UNRIVALED ATOMIZATION QUALITY for superior, repeatable performance

BETTER COVERAGE & PENETRATION into recessed part areas

“TAKING US BEYOND THE SECOND DIMENSION, 3D LASER CUTTING CAME ONTO THE SCENE IN 1979. AN ITALIAN COMPANY CALLED PRIMA INDUSTRIE INVENTED THE PROCESS USING A ROTATIONAL SYSTEM WITH FIVE AXES. NO LONGER RESTRICTED TO FLAT-SHEET MATERIALS, THIS CUTTER CAN PRODUCE ENTIRE PARTS AND PIPES.”

– BASELINE CUSTOM FABRICATING LTD.

STEP #3: STEP #4:

SET UP YOUR LASER CUTTER

Before you begin cutting, you'll need to set up your laser cutter. This includes installing the Ruby software (if you're using a Trotec Laser machine), calibrating the machine, and setting the correct power and speed settings for the material you're using.

LASER CUT EACH LAYER

Once your design and laser cutter is ready, you can get to work and start cutting. Cut out each layer separately from a material such as Baltic Birch or another wood of your choice. Make sure to keep your layers organized to avoid confusion during assembly. You can also add intricate engravings on top of the map, such as roads, railway lines, map legend, place names, and other details.

STEP #5: STEP #6:

ASSEMBLE YOUR MAP

After all your layers have been cut, it's time to assemble your map. Starting with the lowest elevation layer, apply wood glue to each subsequent layer and carefully align them using the registration marks. Clamp each layer as you go to ensure a strong bond.

FINISHING TOUCHES

Once the glue has dried, you can add finishing touches. This might include sanding the edges, staining or painting the wood, or adding a frame. For a polished look, consider adding a clear sealant to protect the wood.

Creating layered 3D maps using a laser cutter may seem like a daunting

task, but with a step-by-step approach, anyone can create a stunning topographic piece of art. The result is not only visually appealing but also offers a unique tactile experience, making these maps a perfect gift or a conversation piece for your home or office.

Black Capped Designs is a testament to the powerful combination

of traditional woodworking skills, modern design, and cutting-edge technology. By utilizing their laser machine and Ruby software, they have created stunning layered wood maps and other personalized products which has expanded their business and delighting customers with their unique offerings.

Lev Uzlaner has over 15 years of professional marketing, sales and operations experience. He has been the Trotec Laser Canada managing director for over three years.

“A MAP DOES NOT JUST CHART, IT UNLOCKS AND FORMULATES MEANING; IT FORMS BRIDGES BETWEEN HERE AND THERE, BETWEEN DISPARATE IDEAS THAT WE DID NOT KNOW WERE PREVIOUSLY CONNECTED.”

– REIF LARSEN, AMERICAN AUTHOR

PRODUCT PREVIEW

ACMOS 100-5030

ACMOS

The ACMOS 100-5030 is a silicone-free release agent ideal for spraying systems on edge banding machines to prevent the adhesion of hot-melt residues on material surfaces, machinery, and tooling. The formulation is water-based, nonflammable, and non-hazardous, which can simplify storage and shipping, and reduce transportation costs. ACMOS 100-5030 is a versatile product that streamlines and replaces several other agents that are used in edge banding systems. The machine can be further diluted with water, making it economical in use and saves on material costs. It promotes high quality finishes, reduces production downtime and extends equipment longevity.

Visit ACMOS at Booth # 4362

CN600 CNC DOVETAILER Cantek

Cantek’s new CN600 CNC dovetailer is programmed through a touch screen interface. The operator can select from a range of standard dovetail joints as well as program the spacing or pitch of the dovetails. This allows for maximum flexibility to ensure the optimal aesthetic result. The dovetail milling unit can also pre-score the workpiece to ensure the best possible finish. In addition, the machining stroke is optimized to reduce any wasted time leading to greater productivity. With a capacity of up to 60 drawers an hour the CN600 is truly a production dovetailer.

Panel Express Laminating System Black

Bros.

The Black Bros. Panel Express System is a heat-assisted, multiple-nip rotary press designed to laminate all types of HPL to particle board or MDF panels. When used in conjunction with fast-tack PVA adhesive, the in-line Panel Express Laminating System requires no additional curing or press time and can produce 240 ready-to-cut panels in an eight-hour shift. The use of environmentally friendly PVA adhesives eliminates the hazards and waste associated with solventbased contact adhesive methods. This can be advantageous in terms of safety and sustainability. The laminator incorporates a variable speed drive, enabling speed adjustments ranging from 10 to 30 feet per minute (3 to 9.1 metre per minute).

Visit Black Bros. Booth # 2400

E550 PMCR Casadei Industria

The Casadei Industria’s E550 PMCR is a compact automatic edgebander, perfect for the small-medium shop. Equipped with automatic edgebanding and a hot melt (EVA) or polyurethanic (PUR) glue pot upon request. The machine also has a chain panel feeding, pre-milling and corner rounding unit. Loaded with features from diamond pre-milling cutterblocks with independent high frequency motors, a multi-radius top and bottom trimming tool, edge scraping, glue scraping, buffing and full corner rounding, the E550 PMCR delivers the functionality of a big machine without the required shop space. E550’s feeding synchronization between the panel and edge ensures suitable gluing along with a diagnostic system with messages for machine use and control.

BT3 Return Conveyor

Doucet Machineries

The BT3 Return Conveyor is the third generation of the manufacturer’s belt transfer return system. It’s to be combined and paired with many edgebander types to increase the machine’s efficiency by reducing the need for manpower. The machine is designed to support cabinet manufacturers (doors and cabinets), furniture manufacturers and commercial furniture manufacturers for the hospitality and healthcare industries, just to name a few. To have a quick return on investment, the company must produce a certain volume, which is usually found in factories with 20 employees or more.

Visit Doucet Machineries at Booth # 1400

FIMAL Concept 350 PLUS Saw

Taurus Craco

The Fimal Concept 350 PLUS Saw is a revolution in cutting offering the advantages of a beam saw along with versatility of a panel saw. Concept 350 is equipped with a reading system of the panel able to determine the width by automatically placing the blade in proximity with the end of the panel itself, avoiding the wait for empty runs with consequent saving of time. The adjustment of depth of the groove or scoring is made simply by rotating a bushing with numerical decimal counter, without opening the sawblade change door. As well as making the machine more secure, the pressure beam throughout its length ensures excellent stability of the workpiece, also ideal for non-planar or thin panels. Like any traditional circular saw, Concept 350 can tilt the blade up to 46 °, the inclination is run by Plc with digital decimal display.

Visit Cantek America Inc / Akhurst Machinery Booth # 1547

PRODUCT PREVIEW

Dynapro Grass America

In contrast to conventional undermount slide systems, Grass America’s Dynapro features a revolutionary synchronization mechanism.

This mechanical synchronization of each individual slide ensures enhanced comfort and movement without irritating sounds or resistance. The operating function of the machine remains unchanged even when moving heavy loads. It can load of up to 132 pounds without any issue. Abrasionresistant nylon rollers ensure smooth and even operation. Available for 16 mm drawer material or 19 mm drawer material with a threedimensional adjustment. Dynapro’s drawer can be adjusted vertically, horizontally, in and out and tilted. There are also cleats on the front locking device to allow for maximum connection between drawer slide and front locking device.

KCD Software

KCD Software is the leading software solution made for cabinet and closet professionals. A powerful suite of intuitive design tools makes it easy to design virtually any space. KCD Software does more than custom cabinets, users can design custom kitchens, baths, closets, mudrooms, offices, pantries, laundry rooms and other creative case goods. Photo realistic 3D renderings help you show clients the finished design and their immediate feedback makes the revision process simple. Once the final design is approved, easily export your entire job for traditional or CNC manufacturing. Discover unparalleled creativity and efficiency in all your projects with KCD Software.

Visit KCD Software at Booth # 3646

Endurance Diamond Finger Joint Tool Peak Toolworks

SAVE Technology

Nederman

Nederman’s SAVE technology enhances dust collector performance and optimizes air filtration through intelligent airflow control. This comprehensive solution optimizes and enhances the performance of your industrial filtration system, leveraging operational data from your machines or processes to determine the precise amount of air needed for effective dust extraction and safe material transport. This results in significant energy savings, reduces the risk of fire and explosion, and minimizes maintenance time. Allows to capture machine utilization data that can help manage operations that can be seamlessly connected to Nederman Insight Analytics for further analysis.

Visit Nederman at Booth #1759

CS 860 & CSF 860 Circular Saw Blades VOLLMER

The brand-new grinding machines

CS 860 (for tooth faces and tops) and CSF 860 (for tooth sides) from VOLLMER are designed for machining carbide-tipped circular saw blades with diameters up to 860 mm (34”) in a single clamping operation. Thanks to uniform and intuitive operation, users can learn how to program the machine in little to no time. Automation for lights out unmanned machining is possible with the manufacturer’s handling systems which can combine up to three grinding machines and can be equipped with up to 650 saw blades. The control cabinet and the maintenance compartment doors are easily accessible and the deep-set operation doors are open wide.

Visit the VOLLMER Booth # 2412

Peak Toolworks’ Endurance Diamond Finger Joint tool increases productivity with less maintenance. This tool is strong enough to cut through all types of solid wood materials, including wood with knots and defects. It can be used for softwood, hardwoods, structural and non-structural work. This PCD tool does not wear out when cutting solid wood. The ability to jump from a HSS tool to a PCD tool is a great benefit in terms of profitability due to fewer tool changes. This means that the machine is running longer and producing more parts. Reduced and simplified maintenance of the E.D.F.J. system also saves on labor costs.

Lumina 1380 Multi Power

Weinig Holz-Her America

Weinig Holz-Her North America’s booth will feature an array of machines, including the Powermat 700 Hybrid, OptiControl

Measuring Stand, VarioRip 310 2M, Dynestic 7505 Push 10.5, Lumina 1380 Multi Power, and the PowerPin - a new Holz-Her Drill and Dowel Machine. They will also have traditional and digital displays for other machines and software. The Lumina 1380 Multi is a panel processing machine, specifically an edgebander, that offers a combination of features for efficient and high-quality panel processing. The machine aims to provide automation, speed, and cost efficiency in panel processing, with features such as the GluJet glue application system, LTRONIC laser edging unit, and integrated multi-function milling technology. It’s designed to streamline production processes and offer versatility in panel machining.

Visit Weinig Holz-Her America’s Booth # 2001

1.4 Tons

Young, flourishing forests produce 1 ton of oxygen and absorb 1.4 tons of CO2 for every 1 ton of wood.

Source: The Engineered Wood Association

700,000

More than 700,000 skilled tradespeople are expected to retire by 2028.

300

In nearly 300 Canadian communities, the forest industry is their primary source of employment and income.

1.21 million

There are currently 1.21 million SMEs in Canada that have employees and are major contributors to the Canadian economy.

35,000

The Canadian economy added 35,000 jobs in March which has kept the unemployment rate steady at 5 per cent.

Source: RBC Skills Canada

3-4 per cent

Source: Government of Canada

Source: Natural Resources Canada

20 per cent

Softwood lumber accounts for about 20 per cent of the total value of Canada’s wood and forest product exports and the U.S. is Canada’s largest export market.

Source: Natural Resources Canada

Source: The Toronto Star

1.7 million

3-4 per cent of construction tradespeople in Canada are women while Newfoundland’s average for female tradespeople sits at 14 per cent.

Canada’s manufacturing industry employs 1.7 million people and accounts for 10 per cent of the country’s real gross domestic product.

Source: World Economic Forum

Source: Canadian Manufacturing & Exporters (CME)

Get ready to join the excitement of the ultimate woodworking and furniture industry eventthe AWFS®Fair! As a premier trade show, the AWFS®Fair is the perfect platform for exhibitors to showcase their latest machinery, tools, software solutions, and supplies, while meeting with thousands of potential customers, partners, and collaborators from around the globe. Not just for exhibitors, the AWFS®Fair is also an unmissable event for woodworking and furniture industry enthusiasts, providing them with an opportunity to discover the latest trends, learn from industry experts, and connect with peers and potential mentors. With hundreds of exhibitors, educational seminars, and networking events, the AWFS®Fair promises to be an unforgettable experience for all involved. So come and be part of the action at the AWFS®Fair, where innovation and creativity meet in the heart of Las Vegas!

www.awfsfair.org

Everything. Except ordinary.

V8

A d r aw er tha t ’s as slim as a pencil

Until recently, the ver y idea of reducing a drawer side to 8 millimetres and, above all, making industrial production commercially viable would have been unthinkable The new slim drawer system not only offers the only 8-millimetre one-piece steel drawer side in the world – Vionaro V8 is also the first pure-metal drawer side with no plastic elements. That produces maximum stability plus longevity and ensures an almost 100 per cent recycling rate

Vionaro V8 Slim Drawer System.