www.timberdesignandtechnology.com
Issue 07 | April 2013
Marks & Spencer raises its green credentials with Cheshire Oaks store China’s voracious appetite for timber driving illegal trade SVEZA: The world-leader in FSC-certified Birch Plywood American Hardwoods: The sustainable alternative DANZER strengthens its presence in the Gulf PLUS Timber industry news, new products, exhibition previews and listings and more
ANALYSIS | INTERVIEWS | DESIGN | SUSTAINABILITY | TECHNOLOGY
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FROM THE EDITOR Issue 07 | April 2013 ndtechnology.com
www.timberdesigna
Oaks store tials with Cheshire raises its green creden Marks & Spencer driving illegal trade appetite for timber China’s voracious Birch Plywood eader in FSC-certified SVEZA: The world-l alternative able sustain oods: The American Hardw Gulf its presence in the DANZER strengthens , news, new products PLUS Timber industry listings and more s and exhibition preview
INTERVIEWS ANALYSIS |
SUSTAINAB | DESIGN |
HNOLOG ILITY | TEC
Y
Cover photo: Marks & Spencer Cheshire Oaks store
Editor’s comment
A
pril is an important month for the regional timber industry as the annual ‘Dubai WoodShow’ exhibition takes place in Dubai during this month. Firmly established as the only event for the industry in this part of the world, the show this year will see the participation of over 300
exhibitors from more than 40 countries and will offer a platform for the global timber industry to meet in the UAE, which is firmly established as a timber trading and wood-processing epicenter. It is
Issue 07 | APRIL 2013
only fitting that Timber Design & Technology is the official GCC Media Partner of the expo and in this issue we take a look at some of the key exhibitors taking part at the event.
Timber Design & Technology Magazine Director Andy MacGregor publisher@citrusmediagroup.net +971 55 849 1574 Marketing Director Eric Hammond marketing@citrusmediagroup.net +971 4 455 8400
Sustainability remains a key issue for the entire industry yet the majority, mostly those not in the timber industry, fail to realize that wood is probably the only true sustainable and natural building material. Our sustainability feature looks at Marks & Spencer and its global eco and ethical programme - Plan A - which is effectively demonstrated through its Cheshire Oaks store. The store has been designed to be the most carbon efficient, premier M&S store to date and has been built in line with Plan A, which aims to make M&S the world’s most sustainable major retailer. Also referred to as a ‘sustainable learning store’, the aim is to ensure that around 60 percent of the eco features featured in Cheshire Oaks will become standard spec for M&S stores. The EUTR, Lacey Act and Australian Illegal Logging Prohibition Bill have all been approved and are
International Sales Director James Hamilton james@timberdesignandtechnology.com
at varying stages of implementation. However, in order to truly be effective, they need to be enforced
Editor Tony Smith editor@timberdesignandtechnology.com
Asia and fuelling conflict. According to the report, China is the world’s top importer of illegal timber
International Representatives Rabia Alga AntExpo Org. | Turkey +90 216 541 0390 rabia@antexpo.net
verifiable results in the long run.
Elias Aggelopoulos Med Expo | Greece +30 210 2931011 info@epipleon.gr
and universally adopted across the globe. A new EIA report argues that China, which is the world’s largest consumer of timber, is driving a growing illegal trade that is stripping forests in Africa and with the trade worth about USD 4 billion a year. A response from the Chinese government was issued after the report was published but the overall consensus remains for clear action to be taken with The issue also features several established players including the likes of SVEZA, the global leader in FSC-certified Birch Plywood and the DANZER Group, which is represented in this region by INTERHOLCO AG. The former is currently supplying significant quantities of film faced plywood across the region and in markets such as Iraq whilst the latter has opened a veneer sales division in the region - again an indication of the health of the timber trade in this region. Further, the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) has partnered with the magazine to publish a special Middle East supplement that highlights the increasing demand for American hardwoods and the potential for further growth with thermally-modified American hardwoods opening up new possibilities for suppliers and specifiers.
Timber Design & Technology is published 6 times a year by Citrus Media Group (powered by WillyMac Associates FZ LLC) Level 14, Boulevard Plaza - Tower One, Emaar Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, PO Box 334155, Dubai, UAE
Our presence on LinkedIn has generated interest in the magazine from all corners of the globe and it is truly wonderful to get positive feedback from timber professionals, who are looking at this region with interest. As always, I would like to encourage you to log on to the website www.timberdesignandtechnology.com - for the latest updates and please get in touch if you have any suggestions for subjects we should consider covering.
and is printed by Masar Printing Press Great care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the contents of Timber Design & Technology but the publishers accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. All contents are © 2013 Citrus Media Group and may not be reproduced in any form without prior consent. Letters and readers’ contributions may be edited at our discretion. April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com
3
IN THIS ISSUE
Contents 12 SUSTAINABILITY
Marks & Spencer raises its green credentials with Cheshire Oaks store Plan A is the company’s eco and ethical programme which aims to make M&S the world’s most sustainable major retailer
17 MARKET REPORT China’s voracious appetite for timber driving illegal trade, says EIA report
P12
‘Appetite for Destruction: China’s Trade in Illegal Timber’ highlights China’s lack of action against illegal logging
24 THE SOURCE SVEZA: The world leader in FSCcertified Birch Plywood SVEZA and Strongwood to take part in Dubai WoodShow 2013
27 AMERICAN HARDWOODS American Hardwoods: The sustainable alternative
P17
47 show PREVIEW 8th Dubai International Wood and Wood Machinery Show Dubai WoodShow to take place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Center from April 9 - 11
52 PROFILE DANZER strengthens its presence in the Gulf DANZER, a leading global timber company, which operates in the Gulf region through its subsidiary INTERHOLCO AG, has increased its offerings by opening a veneer sales division
56 SHOWTIME
P27 PLUS
Preview of the upcoming exhibitions
60 SHOWTIME INTERVIEW interzum 2013 to debut new, futureoriented structure
p7 Latest News
Q&A with Markus Majerus, Communications Manager for Koelnmesse GmbH
p56 Showtime April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com
5
• Farlin Timbers is one of the fastest growing Trading Company in the Middle East, and an integral part of Farlin Group of Companies • Established in the Year 1988, the company has focused its trade on Timber & other related products • It is a multinational firm that provides high quality materials to diverse industries globally • The Group deals LOGS, SAWN TIMBERS, panel products, Coal, Minerals and Agro products
• Today Farlin Timbers FZE has become one of the leading construction materials supplier in the TICALLY INTEGRATED MENA region RLDWIDE IN TIMBER • The company is actively looking for ways to serve their existing and new potential customers in PRODUCTS AND COAL the region through their dynamic Sales Teams
Farlin Group of Companies | P.O. Box: 18252 | Dubai, U.A.E.
w w w. fa r l i n d u b a i . c o m
• Farlin – TIMBERS is the exclusive distributor for Film Face Plywood brand (FARLINPLEX) APPROVED AND USED BY MAJOR PROJECTS IN THE MENA REGION • With Sourcing offices in CHINA, MALAYSIA, ROMANIA, AMERICA & AFRICA , the company provides full-scale service to its customer with quality control, logistics and after sale service • One of the key reasons for the success of FARLIN has been its focus on quality products and innovative well – known Standards • We at Farlin Timbers, share a common purpose and unite in order to focus our various talents and organize our collectively available skills or resources to achieve specific, declared goals
Tel: +971 4 8809889 | Fax: +971 4 8809779 | www.farlindubai.com
NEWS
Brazil to survey Amazon rainforest The Brazilian government has announced that it plans to undertake the huge task of recording an inventory of the trees in the Amazon rainforest. The Forestry Ministry said the census would take four years to complete, and would provide detailed data on tree species, soils and biodiversity in the world’s largest rainforest. The last exhaustive survey was carried out more than 30 years ago and in that time the rainforest has become increasingly threatened by logging. The move follows a commitment made by the Brazilian government in 2009 to reduce deforestation in the Amazon by 80 percent by the year 2020. According to the government, in 2012 the destruction of the Amazon rainforest reached its lowest level since monitoring began more than two decades ago. However, ministers have stated that they would be able to act more effectively if they had more accurate data. “We are going to come to know the rainforest from within,” said Forestry Minister Antonio Carlos Hummel. Environment Minister Izabella Teixeira said it would help the government to formulate environmental policies. She added: “In international debates about climate change, for example, we will know how much forest we have and what state it is in. We’ll also discover species, and gain knowledge about species becoming extinct, as well as information about the distribution of the forest and its potential economic use.” Brazil’s national development bank said it would contribute USD 33 million to the project. The last detailed survey of the Brazilian Amazon was carried out in the 1970s, and its results published in 1983. Forestry Minister Hummel said partial results would be published yearly, as it progressed.
International raid targets illegal timber trade Interpol has announced that it has arrested nearly 200 people in a wide-ranging international operation against illegal logging and the trafficking of timber. The three-month effort spanned 12 Central and South American countries, which resulted in USD 8 million (GBP 5.2 million) worth of timber being seized. According to Interpol, the illegal logging trade could be worth up to USD 100 billion globally. Interpol said officials had checked lorries, ships and containers, as well as retailers and individuals, seizing a total of 50,000 cubic meters, or about 2,000 lorry-loads, of illicit timber. More than 100 people remain under investigation. Illegal logging is a serious problem as it has also been linked to a rise in murders and corruption, as criminal groups move into remote forest areas. The head of Interpol’s environmental crime programme, David Higgins, said the raid, dubbed ‘Operation Lead’, was just the first step in the organization’s fight against the illegal timber trade. He said the international nature of the trade made prosecutions difficult, but that in the long term Interpol would try to help countries apply the law in a more uniform manner. Higgins also pointed out that co-operation between forestry officials, customs and border agents and the police would be crucial to fight timber trafficking. Over the past years, dozens of anti-logging activists have been killed in Brazil in attacks believed to be linked to their activism. In Colombia, police say illegal and rebel groups are increasingly turning to illegal logging as a source of revenue. And in Venezuela, there have been clashes between indigenous groups and loggers who have invaded their land.
8
www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
NEWS
Bright future for Hardlam
An engineered wood product that utilizes logs destined for
Hardlam is a laminated veneer lumber produced from rotary
woodchips is shaping up as a vital factor in the return to
peeled veneer, with the individual veneers glued together. The
profitability of Forestry Tasmania. With the forest peace deal
concept was developed two years ago by FT managing director Bob
seeking to reserve 504,000 hectares of native forest from
Gordon and export manager Sandy Chen who developed a proof of
logging, Forestry Tasmania is confident its new laminated
concept with Chinese manufacturers. Forestry Tasmania technical
hardwood innovation Hardlam, will be a much sought-after gap to
analyst Matt Wood said early feedback had been encouraging.
the high-quality logs that had been used for decades to produce sawn timber. Hardlam, currently processed in China, has a number of
“The reaction has been 100 percent positive. We are very optimistic about the potential of the product. People are falling over themselves asking us how soon they can get it. We have
qualities that will satisfy both consumers and entrenched critics
taken it on the road to Sydney and Melbourne. Everyone is very
of Forestry Tasmania’s practices. It utilizes small-diameter low-
excited about it and on the back of that we have had a lot of
grade logs that would normally be used for woodchips, it is
follow up and secured some larger orders. We have started to
made from Tasmanian hardwood forest timbers and possesses
sell small amounts to wholesalers who want to spend more time
exceptional strength and durability, and is incredibly versatile
looking at the product and on some of their own market testing.
and can be used in a range of applications.
It is an exciting product that ticks all the boxes and is a really
The product has already captured the market’s attention; JAWSARCHITECTS partner Scott Verdouw predicts a bright future
good news story of value added sustainability,” said Wood. Matt said Forestry Tasmania has spent the last three months
for the innovation. Prominent Tasmanian furniture designer
working on a business plan to support the development of a
Linda Fredheim also delivered glowing praise, saying many
mill to produce Hardlam in Tasmania. He added that much of
other Tasmanian furniture makers were genuinely excited by its
Hardlam’s appeal was its versatility and flooring was one use
strength and beauty.
for which Forestry Tasmania saw Hardlam having huge potential.
“We think it’s a fantastic product that we’ve been trying to get into a couple of buildings. The fact its quite a stable product and can be machined up reasonably quickly means you can use
In addition, the cost of Hardlam compared very favourably with traditional timbers such as Tasmanian Oak. “Right now we are using regrowth logs, which gives us a lot
it in a number of different ways. It has a huge advantage over
of hardness and stiffness for items such as table tops,” said
traditional timber because you can get it in different sizes. We
Wood. “We can start with wide boards that you just can’t get in
like the fact it uses so much raw material, there’s a lot less waste
Tasmanian Oak. Tas Oak will always have its market and uses but
and you can use wood that otherwise would have been chipped,”
Hardlam will certainly start to fill those gaps where larger end-
said Scott Verdouw. “I think it has a positive future and the
section boards are becoming harder to find. Pretty much if you
people I’ve shown it to do as well.”
can peel it, you can put it into this product.”
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com
9
NEWS
Nearly half the timber from Mozambique to China is illegal
Forty-eight percent of the timber making its way
Mozambique has placed 22 of its 118 commercial tree
from Mozambique’s forests to Chinese companies
species under partial bans, meaning these so-called ‘1st
was harvested illegally, according to a new report by
class’ species must be processed in Mozambique before
the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), which
export, which means more revenue and jobs for the
blames the problem on widespread corruption and poor
country. However, the EIA believes much of the timber
governance. Illegal logging cost Mozambique, the world’s
being smuggled into China was of these 22 species.
fourth least-developed country in the world according to
Illegal logging deprives locals of a hugely important
the UN, USD 29 million in tax revenue, says the report.
natural resource, including injuring biodiversity, erosion
The EIA went undercover both in Mozambique and China
buffers, watersheds and other ecosystem services. In
to expose the scale of the forest crime.
addition, illegal logging often occurs in tandem with other
“Despite recent commendable efforts by the
organized crimes, such as drug and human trafficking.
Mozambican Government to control the illegal trade in
The EIA has called on Mozambique to immediately ban
timber to China, our investigation uncovers how high-
log exports and kickstart a number of investigations into
level politicians, in league with unscrupulous Chinese
the illegal trade, including taking a look at corruption by
traders, continue to not only breach Mozambique’s
forest officials, police, customs agents, and corporations.
export and forest laws but are now putting pressure on
At present, around half of Mozambique is still under
the sustainable yield of Mozambique’s forests,” said EIA
forest cover.
forests campaigner Chris Moye.
EIA also says that China should prohibit importing
“In 2012 the Mozambican Government registered
illegal timber, something the U.S., Australia, and the EU
260,385 cubic meters of log and sawn timber exports
have already implemented. However, it’s unlikely China
to world markets, including China, while China alone
will stop importing illegal wood anytime soon. Another
registered 450,000 cubic meters of log and sawn timber
report by the EIA also found that China was the world’s
imports from Mozambique,” the report reads. “The
largest importer of illegally-logged wood, estimating
189,615 cubic meter discrepancy is made up almost
that in 2011 the country imported at least 18.5 million
entirely of logs smuggled out of Mozambique by Chinese
cubic meters of sawn timber, 86 times that taken from
companies.”
Mozambique (see page 17 for more).
10 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
NEWS
European space agency to track forests worldwide
www.interzum.com Furniture production Interiors Cologne
The future starts here.
Irish forestry company Treemetrics has just signed a USD 1 million (EUR 800,000) deal with the European Space Agency to monitor forests all over the world. Treemetrics provides a 3D laser scanning system to accurately measure the height, straightness, taper, and volume of the trees in a section of forest. The European Space agency hopes to combine the latest satellite data with Treemetrics’ ground-based forest information. At present, 2D satellite images provide a bird’s eye view of huge areas of forest. Treemetrics uses this data to spot missing trees, which may indicate disease or illegal logging, and to determine where ground scanners should be most urgently deployed. Making the whole process cheaper and more efficient means that owners of smaller forests can start using the technology. There are sound reasons for better tree tracking. “Timber demand is set to double over the next 30 years. People need wood for shelter and heat,” said Enda Keane, CEO, Treemetrics. “Forests are also a vital ecosystem in which 90 percent of the world’s mammals live.” Currently, forest measurement is done manually by a forester who uses calipers to measure the radius of a sample of trees. But with Treemetrics’ technology, a 3D laser scanner emits laser pulses that bounce back from objects in the area, gathering millions of data points over a 30-meter radius of forest. Those data points are then used to construct a 3D model of the trees. Better measurement means that fewer trees can be cut while maximizing value. Treemetrics claims that its system can reduce
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measurement costs by 75 percent. If there is one thing foresters hate doing, it’s cutting trees. Keane should know, since he worked as a forester himself for 10 years. He says that 20 percent of the value of forests worldwide
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(or approximately 10 billion Euros) is lost annually due to inaccurate knowledge of the quantity or quality of the timber available before trees are harvested. The system is now used in forests in Ireland, Norway, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the U.S. Treemetrics’ business model is software as a service, where users are charged per
Koelnmesse GmbH, Messeplatz 1, 50679 Köln, Germany Phone +49 180 5 077 050, Fax +49 221 821-99 1210 interzum@visitor.koelnmesse.de
hectare of forest. Keane says the company has no direct competitors. Treemetrics is based in Cork, Ireland, has 15 employees and has received USD 1.87 million (EUR 1.4 million) in private and government funding.
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 11
SUSTAINABILITY
Marks & Spencer raises its green credentials with Cheshire Oaks store Plan A is the company’s eco and ethical programme which aims to make M&S the world’s most sustainable major retailer
L
ast August Marks & Spencer (M&S) opened its new Cheshire Oaks store, which is its greenest
and biggest store. The store has been built in line with the company’s Plan A programme, which aims to make M&S the world’s most sustainable major retailer. Designed to be the most carbon efficient, premier M&S store to date with an architectural and design strategy that addresses several areas of sustainability at once, the store has been built with the latest in sustainable building
BREEAM Excellent rating (Retail 2006)
technologies and practices, some of
for the shell and fit-out. According
which are firsts in retail.
to the company, the store was built
M&S Cheshire Oaks is the second
using innovations to reduce the impact
biggest M&S store, and the biggest that
on the planet and addresses several
has been built from scratch. With over
areas of sustainability including water,
151,000 square feet of selling space
energy, waste, biodiversity, community
over two floors or the equivalent of
and materials. Timber Design &
nearly 11 Olympic-sized swimming
Technology takes a closer look at some
pools, the store will feature the very
of the sustainability measures in place.
best and most extensive range of M&S products, giving customers thousands
Materials
of shopping options, as well as a large
The building fabric has been
Food hall and two M&S Cafés, with
carefully selected to reduce energy
seating for around 430 customers.
consumption and environmental
More importantly, it has also created
impact. M&S is the first retailer to use
over 350 new jobs and includes
Hemclad® panels in the external walls
placements for Marks & Start, which
and to use 100 percent FSC glulam
provides employment opportunities
timber in its roof structure. Over
for disadvantaged groups.
1,400 m3 of 100 percent FSC-certified
By considering the environment
glulam timber has been used in the
through every aspect of the store
roof and first floor structural decking
design and build, M&S have been able
and this timber has sequestrated
to create its biggest greenest store to
approximately 2,000 tonnes of CO2
date. As such, the store has achieved a
or 100kgCO2/m2 of floor area. It is
12 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
Image © Marks & Spencer
Image © Marks & Spencer
SUSTAINABILITY
Project Team Developer/Contractor: Simons Group Ltd Architect: Aukett Fitzroy Robinson Building Services: Sustainable Design Solutions Ltd (SDS) Refrigeration consultants: Oaksmere Structural Civil Engineering: AECOM Project Manager: David Evans Project Services Ltd. Quantity Surveyor: Gleeds BREEAM Assessor: AECOM Sustainable Development Group
important to note that the project has obtained FSC certification with 99.5 percent of the timber provided from FSC-certified sources. The store features the use of hemp and lime external wall panels (Tradical® Hemclad®), which have excellent insulation properties to comparable brick and block building materials and also absorb carbon from the atmosphere. Further, 2,600 Image © Marks & Spencer
m2 of Hemclad® panels have been used in the external walls to give a U-value of 0.12W/m2K and saving around 360 tonnes of CO2 emissions. In addition, the project features a 100 percent recycled aluminum roof, fermacell dry lining board and 40 percent recycled floor tile.
Carbon Operational energy is predicted to be 30 percent lower and carbon 35 percent lower than a peer store on account of several factors. The store maximizes natural light via north lights and clerestory glazing with fully dimmable lighting to the sales floor and with integrated daylight control. LED lighting has also been used in the car park and external spaces. Improved insulation and thermal mass has been achieved by partially sinking the building in the ground with earth mounding around the perimeter. A biomass boiler and heat reclaim is predicted to deliver 70 percent Image © Marks & Spencer
of heating demand whilst ‘free
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 13
SUSTAINABILITY
cool’ air is delivered to sales floors via displacement air columns and below ground air distribution ducts. Significantly, 100 percent of the electricity is supplied via a green electricity supply contract. A Carbon Manager has also been appointed to undertake a life cycle evaluation of Cheshire Oaks, as well as to quantify total carbon reduction in addition to monitoring the store’s energy efficiency and investigating any deviations from the energy plan.
Water Committed to reducing water consumption across all of its Image © Marks & Spencer
stores through the implementation of efficiency measures and a holistic approach to water use and
Waste
90 percent of this plywood has been
landscaping, the M&S Cheshire Oaks
Throughout the construction of the
donated to community causes, amongst
store features a number of water
M&S Cheshire Oaks building project,
which was the refurbishment of a local
efficiency measures. Foremost
zero waste was sent to landfill
arts venue, the building of a scout
amongst these measures is the
and 87.5 percent of all waste was
group’s hut and various local school
harvesting of rainwater, which is
segregated on site. Responsible
and charity projects. Efforts were also
predicted to displace 25 percent of
management of resources and a tight
made to reduce the amount of newly
the store’s main water demands. An
focus on waste reduction were crucial
quarried stone used in the building
80,000-liter underground tank that
to diverting a massive 1,168 tonnes
of the store with 60 percent of the
collects water from the roof of the
of waste from landfill. Nearly 55,000
crushed stone coming from alternative
store will serve the green wall, staff
tonnes of soil and clay that came
sources such as demolition waste
and customer toilets.
from the initial excavation work has
from a local crushing facility. Lime
also been re-used in a variety of local
stabilizing ground below the building
urinals, dual flush W.Cs, sensor taps
projects, such as the reopening of a
and car park also helped reduce the
in addition to water meters and leak
municipal golf course, leveling of a
quantity of concrete required in the
detection measures. As part of its
new equestrian centre and capping of
foundations by 25 percent.
Sustainable Urban Drainage strategy,
a contaminated quarry and a MOTO-X
an urban ditch has been transformed
Park. Materials including pallets,
Biodiversity
into an attractive swale feature and
cable drums, oaks logs and glulam
The landscape plan has ensured
228 trees have been planted to help
beams were set aside and advertised
Cheshire Oaks is a more biodiverse
minimize flash flooding by slowing
on Freecycle, Gumtree and Recipro
site with a wider number of species of
down rainfall runoff and absorbing
for members of the community to
plant than in the original landscape.
permeating ground water. The project
collect and use.
Encouraging local biodiversity was key
Other measures include waterless
also features permeable paving in parking areas.
Over 2,500 plywood sheets were
to the entire build process, informing
used to protect the store’s ceramic
the landscape design, the appearance
floor during the fit out and nearly
of the store and even the translocation of the local Great Crested Newts. M&S have installed the largest and most varied ‘green wall’ at Cheshire Oaks - covering the majority of the south elevation of the car park. Made up of two innovative systems, the green walls are not only visually impressive but also help to protect the car park from the elements, trap particulates from car exhausts, give thermal and acoustic insulation and provide a natural habitat for birds and other wildlife. The living wall covers 300 sqm in total and contains 30 species of plants - all selected by ecological recommendation - which are watered automatically through a rainwater
Image © Marks & Spencer
14 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
harvesting system.
20 - 23 May 2013
Dubai World Trade Centre
www.indexexhibition.com
For more information about exhibiting as part of the Kitchen & Bathroom and Surfaces & Finishes sections of the INDEX International Design Exhibition 2013, contact Yan Wang, Project Manager: Tel: +971 (0)4 438 0355 Fax: +971 (0)4 438 0357 Email: kitchenbathroom@indexexhibition.com
Other sectors include:
SUSTAINABILITY
Image © Marks & Spencer
As well as protecting two mature oak
Westfield Stratford City in September
trees on site, M&S have planted 228
2011. They are part of M&S’ Plan
new trees, which have the potential to
A and aim to build a strong bank
absorb some 800 tonnes of CO2 by the
of knowledge and experience in
time they reach maturity. Significant
sustainable building practices,
pre-construction ecological works
which benefit the environment and
have also been carried out including
neighboring communities. Speaking at the opening of the
searching for bats and nesting birds, and surveys for water voles whilst
store, Marc Bolland, Chief Executive
enhancements to the swale and wild
of Marks & Spencer, said: “Cheshire
flower planting will encourage flora,
Oaks is a special store as it is all here, under one roof for the first time - the
insects and amphibians to the area. A total of 9 swift boxes have been installed in concealed locations on
Image © Marks & Spencer
Marc Bolland, CEO of Marks & Spencer
very best of M&S. This is also our greenest ever M&S store and we call it a ‘sustainable learning store’ as
the building and a further 6 bird boxes have been added in perimeter
build process. At present, the store
around 60 percent of the eco features
hedgerows in addition to over 20 bird
employs 500 people, of which the
featured in Cheshire Oaks will become
and bat boxes that have been installed
vast majority were newly created
standard spec for M&S stores.”
at local primary schools. The Gabion
and 70 roles were allocated for
walls located in the swale, around the
the Marks & Start programme.
building and in the service yard are
As part of the build process,
free from mortar and cement and full
M&S also committed funds for a
of crevices that make perfect homes
highways scheme to revamp the
for a variety of insects and plants
area, thereby improving junctions,
and insect houses made from the FSC
crossing, cycle ways and footpaths.
timber hoardings and log piles are a
In addition, further money was
great addition to the wild garden area.
donated towards town centre
Travel & Access
improvements. M&S also ensured that 50 percent of the value of the
M&S’ sustainable construction
project construction spend was in
programme also looks at how customers
the North West and 12.5 percent
travel to and from its stores. As such,
in the local area. As a result, the
the store features electric car charging
whole project eventually achieved
points, travel information point, a cycle
a score of 38 out of 40 in the
lane and 100 covered cycle stands, and
Considerate Constructors Scheme,
staff showers. In addition, the company
which is a national initiative
is also contributing annually over the
designed to encourage best practice
next 10 years towards improvements to
beyond statutory requirements.
the existing bus services.
Community
Plan A Cheshire Oaks is the third of M&S’
Creating good relationships with the
Plan A Sustainable Learning Stores,
local community was an integral
following the opening of Ecclesall
part of the M&S Cheshire Oaks
Road, Sheffield in April 2011 and
16 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
Marks & Spencer Cheshire Oaks,Ellesmere Port: - Premier store carrying the full product catalogue and second largest M&S store in the world - Site area: 525,192 sq ft - Gross Internal Area: 209,068 sq ft - Net sales area: 148,865 sq ft - Sustainable learning store, BREEAM Excellent rated (Retail 2006) and M&S’ most carbon efficient - Designed to be more resilient to climate change through its materials, landscaping and water strategy - First retailer to use Hemclad® panels in the external walls and to use 100% FSC glulam timber in its roof structure
MARKET REPORT
China’s voracious appetite for timber driving illegal trade, says EIA report ‘Appetite for Destruction: China’s Trade in Illegal Timber’ highlights China’s lack of action against illegal logging
A
ccording to the London-based Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), China’s insatiable appetite for timber is driving a growing illegal trade that is stripping forests in Africa and Asia and fuelling conflict. The EIA report ‘Appetite for Destruction: China’s Trade in Illegal Timber’ states that China is the world’s top importer of illegal timber, with the trade worth about USD 4 billion a year. The numbers are a cause for concern given that Interpol estimates the global trade in illegal timber to be worth more than USD 30 billion. The EIA has released its report to highlight China’s lack of action, in contrast to major trading partners
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 17
MARKET REPORT
such as the U.S. According to the report, China’s role as the world’s biggest timber trader means that further progress against illegal logging depends on the nation taking measures to exclude illicit timber from its market. In the past, academic research and NGOs such as WWF and Global Witness have revealed the existence of illegal trading networks in central Africa,
The EIA report ‘Appetite for Destruction: China’s Trade in Illegal Timber’ states that China is the world’s top importer of illegal timber, with the trade worth about USD 4 billion a year
Burma and Russia leading directly to
China’s Timber Deficit Currently the world’s biggest importer, consumer and exporter of timber and wood products, demand for timber and wood products in China for domestic consumption or re-export as processed wood and paper products has soared during the past 15 years. China’s rise as a vast manufacturing hub has also included the rapid expansion of its wood processing industry - a six-fold
Chinese ports or cities. However, with
The truth is that China has become
increase in gross domestic product
the publication of this report, direct
the leading importer, consumer and
since 2002 has generated huge wealth,
blame and responsibility is being
exporter of the world’s timber. Given
prompting a rising demand for wood
directed to Beijing and to holding public
that its own forests provide less than 40
and paper products within the country.
enterprises and local government. The
percent of its needs, the gap between
In fact, China’s consumption of wood
report goes on to state that China is
domestic supply and demand is set to
products had reached 371 million cubic
at the center of a vast global traffic in
grow. Timber Design & Technology takes
meters a year in 2007 and is expected
illegally logged timber that is destroying
a closer look at some of the key findings
to grow, at current rates, to 477 million
entire swaths of forest around the
of the report.
cubic meters by 2020.
world. It also reveals just how China’s appetite for wood has grown in the past decades as a result of consumption by the new middle classes, as well as an export-driven wood industry facing growing demand from major foreign furniture and construction companies. Unlike the U.S., the EU and Australia, which, under pressure from public opinion, have adopted legislation banning illegal timber imports, China has made no such move. The government has only signed bilateral agreements with the U.S., Europe, Indonesia and Burma, the benefits of which have yet to be demonstrated.
18 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
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MARKET REPORT
The growth of China’s wood manufacturing sector began in 1998 despite Government-imposed strict logging controls following floods in the country. With domestic forests incapable of meeting the growth in demand, a gaping timber deficit emerged, one that today poses a direct threat to global forests. Despite commendable efforts at reforestation, which have led to an increase in the country’s forest cover, domestic supply can at best meet only 50 percent of the wood and paper industry’s required raw materials. Further, demand was expected to continue growing at around 8 percent a year, which meant that the deficit between demand and domestic
raw material imports such as logs and
imports between 2000-09. From log
production had risen to 150 million
sawn timber as opposed to higher-
imports in 2000 of 13.6 million cubic
cubic meters per year by 2010.
value finished and semi-finished
meters valued at USD 1.6 billion,
products such as plywood. In general,
China’s imports by 2011 had more than
Development and Reform Commission
China relies heavily on timber imports
trebled by volume to 42 million cubic
warned of the wood deficit reaching
for both hardwood and softwood
meters worth around USD 8.2 billion.
150 million cubic meters and called
logs and lumber, in both tropical and
China imported around 30 percent of all
for policies such as boosting domestic
temperate species.
logs traded worldwide in 2011.
In 2006, China’s National
production to close the gap. However,
China’s huge and growing demand for
Sawn wood imports have also risen
it continues to grow and in 2009,
raw logs has dominated the country’s
significantly in recent years, reaching
domestic supplies accounted for only
timber imports throughout the past
38.8 million cubic meters (RWE) in
38 percent of consumption. To bridge
decade, with an average 33 percent
2011. Two countries dominated 2011
the gap, China has become the world’s
of its log consumption being met by
lumber imports - Canada supplied
biggest importer of wood products. In 1997, it imported 35 million cubic meters of wood products; by 2009, it reached 113 million cubic meters. Demand in China is now being felt around the world as the number of countries from which it sources wood increases.
China’s Wood Products Imports According to the EIA, China imported around 180 million cubic meters (Round Wood Equivalent, or RWE) of wood products, worth USD 9.3 billion. This represents a 28 percent increase over 2010 volumes and a three-fold increase since 2000. Composition of the imports demonstrates China’s role as a processing centre, with the bulk comprising round logs, sawn timber wood chips and pulp for paper manufacture. China has also registered a dramatic increase in combined paper, pulp and wood chips imports, from 37 million cubic meters (RWE) in 2000 to nearly 98 million cubic meters (RWE) in 2011, accounting for 53 percent of total wood product imports. Imports of timber products (logs, sawn timber, furniture, plywood and other products) have also risen rapidly during the past decade, with China’s trade policies promoting increased
20 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
MARKET REPORT
In 2006, China’s National Development and Reform Commission warned of the wood deficit reaching 150 million cubic meters and called for policies such as boosting domestic production to close the gap
meters of wood products valued at
meters (RWE) of timber, followed by
Despite a lack of reliable data on
plywood and wood panel shipments
China’s domestic consumption of wood
worth USD 3.26 billion and a volume
products, the report argues that as the
China’s total wood products exports
of 16.5 million cubic meters (RWE). The
country becomes wealthier, its demand
have increased nearly seven-fold in
remainder was made up of a wide array
for wood is rapidly rising. According to
the past decade, from around USD 5
of wood products, including flooring,
the report, when previously confronted
billion in 2000 to USD 34.2 billion in
mouldings and joinery.
with concerns about imports of
12.3 million cubic meters (RWE) and Russia 10.2 million cubic meters (RWE), followed by America, Thailand and the European Union. Interestingly, as the share of lumber imports from low risk countries in China’s top 10 suppliers has risen to 59 percent in 2011, the share from high-risk suppliers in the top 10 decreased to 41 percent. However, due to a sharp overall rise in imports, supplies from high risk sources actually increased by 4.1 million cubic meters (RWE) to 15.4 million cubic meters in 2011.
China’s Wood Product Exports
2010, which is equivalent to a volume
The major markets for these exports
USD 5 billion, and a further 2.4 million cubic meters of paper sector products worth over USD 1.3 billion. Japan was China’s third biggest export market in 2010, importing 4 million cubic meters of wood products valued at USD 2.1 billion, and a further 2.1 million cubic meters of paper sector imports valued at USD 920 million.
China’s Domestic Timber Consumption
illegally logged timber, Chinese officials
of 71 million cubic meters (RWE) of
include America, the EU, Japan and the
responded by claiming most of the
timber products, pulp and paper. In
Middle East. In 2010, the U.S. remained
wood was re-exported as finished
terms of products, wood furniture is
China’s biggest market, importing 11.9
products and that China was merely
by far China’s biggest export category
million cubic meters (RWE) of wood
a processor, with most of the value
by value, with 2010 sales of USD 15.8
products valued at USD 7.7 billion, and
accruing in end markets such as the U.S.
billion, using 19 million cubic meters
a further 2.99 million cubic meters of
However, this is no longer the case as
(RWE) of timber. The second largest
paper sector products worth USD 1.5
China is now a significant end market in
category is paper, with exports of USD
billion. The U.S. was followed by the
its own right.
9.57 billion, using 23 million cubic
EU, which imported 8.48 million cubic
The construction sector is the biggest driver of increased domestic wood product consumption in China. Given that 36 million new affordable homes are due to be built by 2016 under the Government’s five-year plan, the increase in construction and home ownership is spurring a rising demand for a range of timber products such as flooring, furniture, panels and plywood. Domestic wooden furniture sales grew from about USD 10 billion in 2006 to around USD 29 billion in 2011, which was equivalent to 84 percent of the value of China’s total wood product exports for the year. Deutsche Bank estimated in 2007 that only 16 percent of the country’s wood products output was destined for export, with the remainder consumed domestically. Further, other sources have estimated domestic consumption at similar proportions of between 75 - 85 percent of overall production.
China’s Illegal Timber Imports The EIA report concludes by stating that as China has risen to become the world’s biggest importer of timber products, it has also emerged as the leading destination for illegally logged timber, especially logs and lumber. Give that illegal logging and wood smuggling are by nature clandestine and criminal
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 21
MARKET REPORT
activities, an exact quantification of the volume of illicit wood entering China is challenging. However, by combining material flows with rates of illegal logging in source countries, credible estimates can be made. For instance, a 2009 study found China had the highest total supply and use of illegally harvested timber worldwide, consuming between 39 - 69 million cubic meters (RWE) of illegal timber in 2008. With these estimates representing 37 - 66 percent of China’s 2008 imports of 104 million cubic meters (RWE), applying these percentages to China’s 2011 imports of 180 million cubic meters (RWE) implies that between 68 - 120 million cubic meters of imports may have been illegal.
to ensure supply from some of the
in recent years, China has to date
worst illegal logging hotspots in the
resisted this leadership role, opting
that 20 percent of China’s wood
world. Historically, large volumes of
instead to present such policies as
imports in 2008 were of illegal origin.
illegal timber imports into China have
‘unsuitable’ for its circumstances.
Applying this percentage to 2011
been re-exported as finished wood
China’s emergence as the world’s
imports suggests China might have
products to consumer markets in
second biggest economy also
imported around 36 million cubic
America, the EU and Japan. However,
means that the country is playing
meters (RWE) of illegal wood products
China’s rapidly growing domestic
an increasingly high-profile role
last year, worth USD 6.9 billion.
consumer market is currently the main
in global political and economic
absorber of illegal timber imported
change. With such power comes
into the country, and without action
responsibility, and it essential that
will be the chief driver of illegal
the country acts decisively to cut
logging worldwide in the future.
illegal timber out of its path towards
Another 2010 study also calculated
Tackling China’s Illegal Timber Trade The EIA report categorically states
While other leading economies
economic growth. And so, the fate of
done virtually nothing to curb illegal
have instituted clear and principled
much of the world’s natural forests is
imports, while putting in place policies
prohibitions on illegal timber trade
in China’s hands.
that the Chinese Government has
RECOMMENDATIONS The Government of China should: - Institute a clear legal prohibition on imports of illegally logged timber - Place responsibility for eradicating China’s illegal timber trade in the hands of a formal coordinating body comprising senior officials from the Commerce and Foreign Ministries, as well as the State Forest Administration (SFA) - Ensure timber trade associations (both private and those under Government agencies) provide clear information to Chinese importers on laws regulating timber production and trade in all countries from which China imports wood - Support the inclusion of threatened timber species in the annexes of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). A clear place to start would be to support proposals from Thailand, Vietnam and Madagascar for the inclusion of key rosewood and ebony species in CITES Appendix II in March 2013 - Show respect to trade partners by reciprocating export controls placed on their timber products, such as log and sawn timber export bans - Revise the voluntary guidance provided to Chinese companies operating overseas to make it mandatory - Institute laws that criminalize corruption or bribery
22 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
of foreign officials by Chinese companies, in line with anti-corruption legislation instituted in the UK and the U.S. - Ensure that bilateral agreements on illegal logging, such as MoUs, are made meaningful through firm action - Maximize the potential of existing MoUs and ‘ bilateral agreements on illegal logging and trade to help China transition to legal timber procurement, manufacturing and export, so as to ensure ongoing exports to newly regulated markets such as the US, EU and Australia - Eliminate the role of state-owned enterprises in procuring imports of illegal timber into China Timber producing countries exporting to China should: - Clarify forestry and timber trade laws to all export markets, particularly China - Adequately implement laws regulating forestry and timber trade, through improved law enforcement The EU and U.S. should: - Ensure that the implementation of the US Lacey Act and EU Timber Regulation with regard to timber products imported from China is robust - Use existing bilateral dialogues with China to promote trade in legal forest products
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THE SOURCE
SVEZA:
The world leader in FSC-certified Birch Plywood S
VEZA is a dynamically
World Football Cup in South Africa;
developing company, and one
the MGM Complex in Las Vegas; the
of the leading manufacturers
Jordan University in Aqaba; Park Hyatt
of wood-based panels in the world.
Hotel in Abu Dhabi; Qatar foundation
The company produces high-quality
HQ in Doha; and the Royal Opera
plywood from the premium Russian
House in Muscat, Oman. The company
birch and is a world leader in its
is represented by Strongwood in this
field. Testament to the emphasis
region and is positive of increased
on world-class production, the
growth and demand in 2013. Timber
for large industrial customers such
company’s Quality Management
Design & Technology takes a closer
as transport equipment or formwork
Systems are ISO 9001 compliant
look at SVEZA.
system manufacturers. SVEZA
and its products comply with global
special products come in custom
health and safety regulations as
SVEZA Products
proven by the international and
The world leader in birch, SVEZA
packaging subject to the customers`
Russian certificates achieved.
offers a variety of products including
requirements.
Participating in all of the major
Interior and Exterior Birch plywood
sizes, with an option for special
SVEZA Interior Birch plywood is
markets around the world, the
and Film faced Birch plywood. In
a high-quality construction material
company’s products have been
addition, the company also offers
with excellent durability and
specified in leading projects including
special products including birch
resistance to moisture. The plywood is
the main stadium and Olympic village
plywood manufactured according to
easy to treat and combines beautifully
of the 2012 Olympic Games in London;
a customers` special requirements.
with indoor materials. While it is
the football stadium for the 2010 FIFA
This type of plywood is produced
highly resistant to humidity, this type
24 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
THE SOURCE
SVEZA in figures - 1,200,000 m3 of wood boards annually - 200+ sizes and thicknesses - 100 percent birch veneer - 70 purchasing countries - 6 mills
SVEZA - 100 % Birch Plywood - Hardwood core - Attractive surface and edge - High strength to weight ratio - Endurance - Stability of form - Minimal voids - Keeps its properties through a temperature range of -40°C to +50°C (–40°F to +122°F) - Easy handling and fast installation
The world leader in birch, SVEZA, offers a variety of products including, Interior and Exterior Birch plywood and Film faced Birch plywood Image © SVEZA
moisture from penetrating and
logistics for its clients. Founded
provides resistance to abrasion,
in 1997, the company has a rich
aggressive environments, fungus
history and its skilled workers have
and mold. In addition, edges are
learned their craft from family
sealed with water-resistant acrylic
tradition work at its facilities. Further,
paint. This type of plywood is widely
SVEZA uses the most advanced
used in the construction industry in
equipment and precision instruments
formwork systems for cast-in-situ
including continuous peeling and
of plywood is not recommended for
construction. Apart from a smooth
drying lines from RAUTE (Finland);
exterior trim.
surface, a wire mesh surface is also
clipping lines from Schelling and
available, which offers slip protection,
Holzmann (Germany); surfacing-and-
a high-quality construction material
and so can be used as flooring in
jointing equipment from Hashimoto
with high durability and moisture
vehicles and scaffolding.
(Japan); and sanding machines from
Image © SVEZA
SVEZA Exterior Birch Plywood is
resistance. Through its use of a
Steinemann (Germany).
special glue, the plywood maintains
Production capabilities
its performance under conditions of
SVEZA annually produces over 1.2
Why SVEZA?
high humidity. It retains its shape and
million m3 of wood board including
Working with SVEZA has several
resists deforming and can be used in
920,000 m3 of plywood and 310,000
advantages. The company is able to
both interior and exterior applications.
m3 of particle board. The company’s
supply a wide product range of high
mills are located in regions that
quality plywood. More importantly,
is high-quality plywood with special
are naturally rich in birch woods,
SVEZA is able to ensure a stable
film. The laminated surface stops
thereby enabling it to offer ideal
production of large volumes, with the
SVEZA Film Faced Birch Plywood
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 25
THE SOURCE
Q&A with Maxim Kolenko, Head of Sales to Asia and Africa, sveza
Image © SVEZA
Image © SVEZA
possibility of extra orders in order to
2013. As such, the certificate confirms
cope with unanticipated increases in
that SVEZA’s products are processed
demand. The company also offers its
from legally harvested timber,
clients assistance in developing an
derived from controlled sources. More
individual solution through a personal
importantly, wood of unknown origin
manager who is able to respond to
is not used in the production and
requests, help with purchase portfolio
shipment of SVEZA products.
planning, order status monitoring,
The company has a history of care
and supply information about
for the environment and observes
special offers. As a global leader in
the highest environmental standards
birch plywood, the company also
and principles in the rational use of
offers optimal logistics due to the
natural resources. This is extended
convenient geographic location of its
to its production as well wherein the
production mills.
company builds its processes and use
Environmental Credentials SVEZA is FSC certified. The
resources with total efficiency so as to minimize waste.
company has successfully passed
SVEZA in the Middle East
the annual FSC chain of custody
SVEZA is represented exclusively in
(CoC) certification audit, which was
the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait by
conducted by an independent auditor
Strongwood. Confident of the demand
- GFA Consulting Group. Based on
in this region, the company will be
the results of the audit, which was
participating at the Dubai WoodShow
performed in October 2012, its FSC
2013 with a view towards highlighting
certification has been renewed for
its various products at the show.
SVEZA is a global brand. Could you tell us a little bit about your sales to the Middle East and the outlook for SVEZA in this region? The Middle East is considered by SVEZA as a promising developing market. SVEZA was barely known in 2008 in the Middle East when I joined the company. My task was to create the market for SVEZA in the Middle East especially for its film faced plywood. I believe that today the SVEZA name is well established in the market but of course there is much to do in the coming years. Figures are usually self-explanatory. In 2012 SVEZA sold about 5,000 m3 of plywood to the Gulf countries, which is 30 percent higher than in 2011. In addition, we also supplied more than 3,000 m3 to Lebanon and Jordan, which represented a 15 percent increase over 2011 figures. Further, we sell more than 1,000 m3 of film faced plywood per month to Iraq, which has recently grown to become one of the major export markets for our company. What range of plywood does SVEZA sell in the Middle East? We sell mainly film faced plywood which is widely used in construction projects thanks to our distributors. At the same time, I am trying to develop the sales of exterior birch plywood in the region. This type of plywood can be used for interior decoration, flooring and furniture production. We believe that interior birch plywood will find its customers in lasercutting and furniture industries. What can you tell about agency cooperation between SVEZA and Strongwood? Strongwood was nominated as our agent for UAE in 2010. Since that time our agency cooperation has brought nice results. Today this partnership covers the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Our joint participation at Dubai WoodShow this year shows that we are eager to develop our cooperation and increase birch plywood sales in the Gulf region.
Image © SVEZA
26 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 27
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AMERICAN HARDWOODS
Expert opinion
Building a case for American hardwoods in the Middle East F
or American hardwoods, the Middle East has been a great success story, showing
consistent growth in demand for the past fifteen years or so, even weathering the Global Financial Crisis. AHEC’s market development programme in the Middle East began in earnest in 1999 and, since then, we have seen markets develop considerably. One example is the UAE, which is now a timber trading and wood processing epicentre, not to mention an architecture and interior design hub for much of the Gulf region and many markets way Image © AHEC
beyond. At the same time, demand for US hardwoods across the rest
Roderick Wiles, AHEC Director for Africa, Middle East, India and Oceania
of the Gulf has risen steadily, while countries in the Levant and North Africa have evolved in to major timber consuming markets. Total exports of American hardwood lumber and veneer to the MENA region reached a value of USD
Today, the United States is the number one supplier of temperate hardwoods to the Gulf and, as if to prove this, we see American species being used in a wide range of new projects
86.54 million in 2012, marking an 18 percent increase over the previous
auditoria and meeting rooms, the
American red oak. The number and
year. We anticipate that demand this
soon-to-be-opened Sofitel The Palm,
standard of entries is expected to be
year and in the immediate future
displaying substantial quantities of
even higher this year and we look
will prove to be even stronger, as
American ash in its rustic Polynesian-
forward to presenting the award on
the region’s construction sector
styled interiors and the new Emirates
16 September in Dubai.
has already started to bounce back
A380 terminal at Dubai International
from the downturn seen four years
Airport, boasting no less than 1.6
to focus on promoting new technology
ago. Today, the United States is the
kilometers of First and Business Class
offered by the US hardwood industry,
number one supplier of temperate
lounges in American black walnut.
such as thermal modification. This
hardwoods to the Gulf and, as if
With all this work in mind,
In the coming months, we also plan
relatively simple, but carefully
to prove this, we see American
AHEC will be a major sponsor of
controlled heating process applied
species being used in a wide range
the Commercial Interior Design
to a select few American hardwood
of new projects, including hotels,
Awards for the third time this year.
species effectively turns non-durable
restaurants, retail outlets, villas and
The category, Outstanding Use of
interior timber in to a material that
even schools and universities, such
American Hardwood in the Middle
can be used outside and even in high
as Al Bateen Secondary School, Zayed
East, attracted a lot of entries in
moisture environments. With the
University and the upcoming New
2011 and 2012, with Hakkasan
current vogue for timber cladding
York University, all situated in Abu
Dubai by Woods Bagot picking up the
and decking, as well as exterior
Dhabi. Other noteworthy projects
award last September for its unique
timber structures, we hope to see
include the Qatar National Convention
form and structure that used timber
American hardwoods featured in an
Centre, which features five US
beyond a 2D cladding scenario,
even wider range of applications in
hardwood species in its theatres,
while also highlighting the beauty of
the region in the near future.
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 29
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
Market Outlook
Exports of U.S. hardwoods to the MENA region reach USD 86.54 million in 2012 Red oak, ash, white oak, walnut and tulipwood make up the majority of exports to the region
Image Š AHEC
30 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
T
otal exports of U.S. hardwood lumber and veneer to the Middle East and North Africa
(MENA) region reached USD 86.54 million for the year 2012. Shipments of American hardwood lumber reached a value of USD 62.41 million and a volume of 89,964 cubic meters, marking an increase of 19 percent and 18 percent respectively over 2011. In addition, direct shipments of U.S. hardwood veneers to the MENA region during 2012 reached a total value of USD 24.10 million, rising by 17 percent in comparison to the previous year. In general, exports to the region increased significantly for the year on account of a substantial increase in demand for American hardwoods in the UAE, Turkey, Jordan and Pakistan. The statistics have been released by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and show that the UAE, in value, was the number one destination for U.S. hardwood lumber for 2012, with total shipments reaching USD 11.62 million, rising by 14 percent in comparison to the previous year. Turkey emerged as the second most significant destination Image © AHEC
with the value of shipments reaching USD 9.62 million and marking an increase of 68 percent over 2011. In volume terms, Pakistan has emerged as the number one buyer in the region, taking 16,056 cubic meters of American hardwood lumber for the year, which equated to USD 8.63 million in value terms. These numbers mark increases of 133 percent and 170 percent respectively over 2011. Roderick Wiles, AHEC Director for Africa, Middle East, India and Oceania, said: “Demand for American hardwoods in the MENA region is poised to remain strong this year
Significantly, increases in exports of U.S. hardwood lumber and veneers were seen in most markets across the region including for the first time in recent history, direct shipments of U.S. hardwood lumber to Libya and Iraq
UAE (USD 2.54 million). According to Wiles, fair growth in the economic sector and a significant movement towards recovery from the global financial crisis has seen the entire region stabilize, which is evident in the overall increase in exports across most markets. “Given the on-going political and, therefore, economic uncertainty in Egypt, imports for timber products as a whole have been impacted negatively. However, the demand for American veneers remained strong and imports to Egypt actually grew
as well. The majority of importers continue to acquire and maintain
demand for American hardwood
by 10 percent in 2012. Significantly,
large stocks of American hardwoods,
lumber in Saudi Arabia (USD 7.79
increases in exports of U.S. hardwood
driven by the renewed surge in the
million), Egypt (USD 4.49 million),
lumber and veneers were seen in
construction sector. While significant
Jordan (USD 4.49 million), Lebanon
most markets across the region
increases were seen in the volume of
(USD 3.29 million) and Qatar (USD
including for the first time in recent
shipments of ash and walnut to the
2.06 million). In terms of value,
history, direct shipments of U.S.
Middle East and North Africa in 2012,
the biggest increases in exports of
hardwood lumber to Libya and Iraq.
red oak still accounted for 29 percent
U.S. hardwood lumber were seen
With demand expected to remain
of all exports of American hardwood
in Oman (238 percent), Qatar (149
strong through 2013, we remain
lumber to the region. In addition
percent), Algeria (474 percent) and
committed to our outreach programme
to ash and walnut, the other major
Jordan (50 percent). With respect to
in the Middle East with a view to
species exported included white oak
U.S. hardwood veneers, the biggest
interact with the major players in the
and tulipwood.”
markets were Egypt (USD 10.22
region and to further promote the
million), Turkey (USD 6.91 million),
many positive attributes of American
Lebanon (USD 2.96 million) and the
hardwoods,” concludes Wiles.
A closer look at other markets across the region reveals strong
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 31
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
SUSTAINABILITY
American hardwood industry endorses EU Timber Regulation aimed at eradicating illegal timber trade Seneca Creek Assessment demonstrates EUTR conformance with U.S. hardwoods
T
he American Hardwood Export
agricultural crops but including wood
varies between sub-national regions
Council (AHEC), the leading
and derivative products) ‘taken,
or between concessions within those
international trade association
possessed, transported, or sold’ in
regions. Under EUTR, the importer’s
for the American hardwood industry,
violation of any relevant foreign or
due diligence system must ‘provide
has announced its support and
state law.
access to documents or other
endorsement of the EU Timber
Roderick Wiles, AHEC Director for
information indicating compliance
Regulation (EUTR), which came into
Africa, Middle East, India and Oceania
of those timber and timber products
effect on March 3, 2013 and aims to
said: “A key strength of the EUTR is that
with the applicable legislation’. No
eradicate illegal timber trade within
while it establishes tough sanctions
specific requirements are established
the EU. The EUTR imposes mandatory
for any failures in due diligence, it is
for the types of documents and other
requirements on companies that ‘first
flexible on the mechanisms by which
information most appropriate to meet
place’ forest products on the EU market
legality may be demonstrated. This
this obligation. However, they must
to implement a ‘due diligence system’
responds to the reality of complex
be of appropriate quality, credibility
to minimize the risk of illegal wood
international supply chains and
and scope to allow the EU importer to
entering the EU. Any such company
highly variable regulatory systems in
determine that a timber product is of
failing to demonstrate due diligence,
timber supplying countries. It does not
negligible risk in terms of illegal supply.
or found to have placed illegally
impose unnecessary new controls on
harvested wood on the EU market, is
suppliers in regions where the existing
conformance is satisfied through the
subject to legal sanction. Significantly,
legal framework is effective and also
comprehensive ‘Assessment of Lawful
the EC Guidance on EUTR has approved
doesn’t require European regulatory
Harvesting & Sustainability of U.S.
the Seneca Creek Assessment as the
authorities to capture or monitor
Hardwood Exports’ commissioned by
basis for EUTR conformance with U.S.
individual shipments to ensure they
AHEC and undertaken by Seneca Creek
hardwoods.
are legal. Instead it focuses on ensuring
Associates, a team comprised of well-
As the representative trade
that EU timber importing companies
regarded and independent analysts
association of one of the world’s
have effective management systems
and experts in the field of U.S. forest
largest hardwood exporting industries,
to reduce the risk of trade in illegal
policy and forest certification. The
AHEC has a considerable stake in
wood. By doing so, it builds on existing
Seneca Creek team compiled detailed
eradicating illegal wood from trade. A
due diligence systems that have been
information on the scope, effectiveness
major concern for AHEC is that neither
applied by responsible European
and enforcement of federal, state, and
the value nor the reputation of legally
traders for many years.”
local regulatory programs across all
harvested products is undermined in
EUTR requires that the EU importer
In the case of U.S. hardwoods, EUTR
the U.S. hardwood producing states.
world markets by competing products
is able to identify for every product
The Seneca Creek assessment remains
from illicit sources. As such, AHEC
group the ‘country of harvest and,
the only comprehensive sector-specific
has been a leading supporter of the
where applicable, the sub-national
and peer-reviewed study to quantify
EUTR, through membership of the
region and the concession of harvest’.
the risk of any wood being derived
U.S. Hardwood Federation, of the U.S.
Information on origin beyond country
from a controversial source, including
Lacey Act Amendment of May 2008.
of harvest is required only in those
illegal harvesting, in line with both the
This makes it an offence within the
circumstances where the EU importer
FSC Controlled Wood standard and the
U.S. to possess any plant (excluding
judges that the risk of illegal harvesting
PEFC Chain of Custody standard.
32 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
process to prepare an FSC Controlled
5 years, meetings with European
demonstrates that there is less than
Wood National Risk Assessment for the
Commission and EU Member State
a 1 percent risk of any illegal wood
United States. As such, the EC Guidance
officials, and close analysis of the
entering the U.S. hardwood supply
on EUTR indicates that credible third
EUTR and supporting documentation.
chain. This result emerges from the
party studies like the Seneca Creek
This guidance can be downloaded at
robust institutional framework for
assessment, and independent sources
http://americanhardwood.org/EUTR/.
hardwood forest management in the
such as the FSC Risk Register, where
“The EU now needs to move
United States, which combines clear
these demonstrate negligible risk of
forward and commit sufficient
and fully enforced property rights,
illegal logging in specific regions or
resources for consistent
multi-generational family forest
for specific product groups, are an
communication and effective
ownership, respect for the rule of
appropriate form of documentation
enforcement of EUTR. It is clearly
law, and a strong civil society. All U.S.
for EU importers to meet their legal
a very significant challenge to
trading companies are also subject to
obligations.
successfully roll out a complex and
“The Seneca Creek study
the rigors of the Lacey Act, further
While EUTR places the due diligence
untried piece of legislation across tens
mitigating any perceived risks that
obligation firmly on the importer,
of thousands of operators in the EU.
may be associated with sourcing U.S.
AHEC has prepared specific guidance
However, if properly enforced, EUTR
hardwood products,” added Wiles.
for AHEC Members to ensure that
should play a major role to level the
U.S. hardwood exporters are fully
playing field for responsible suppliers
together with recent analysis of other
briefed on the EUTR obligations and
of timber into the EU. The EUTR is
data sources such as the Transparency
therefore better able to assist their EU
also an opportunity for the wood
International Corruption Perceptions
customers. AHEC’s robust response to
industry to move beyond fire-fighting
Index, the FSC Global Risk Register
the EUTR is part of a much broader
negative publicity surrounding illegal
concludes that the United States is low
strategy by the U.S. hardwood industry
logging and to build more proactive
risk against all 4 FSC Controlled Wood
to demonstrate real sustainability.
communication efforts demonstrating
criteria established for legality. This
The guidance has been prepared
the strong environmental credentials
conclusion is currently undergoing
drawing on active participation in the
of wood compared to non-wood
further review as part of the on-going
process to develop EUTR over the last
materials,” concludes Wiles.
Drawing on the Seneca Creek study,
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 33
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
Case study
Renovation of Monument Woudestein at Rotterdam Erasmus University American red oak brings warmth and light to brutalist architecture of the seventies
E
rasmus University Rotterdam is a research University and internationally recognized for
its high quality teaching. In 2007 the University launched a master plan to modernize and increase the capacity of the Woudestein campus. A master plan was drawn up to re-organize the layout of the University and separate the built up zone of the University from a greener zone with open spaces for students to enjoy. Located at the heart of the University campus, Monument Woudestein is a cluster of buildings representative of stark concrete brutalist architecture of the sixties and seventies. As part of the master plan, a renovation programme of these historic buildings of Monument Woudestein was commissioned to Gerard Frishert in 2004. Erasmus University had expressed its wish to improve the buildings without compromising their original character. As a result, Frishert’s restoration maintains the original simple design, making use of the large windows that allow natural daylight to sweep Image © AHEC
through the building, brightening up the stylish interior, which now features red oak ceilings. When Monument Woudestein was originally built, the ceilings and walls were a combination of grey concrete and dark wood strips, which created a gloomy atmosphere. The re-fit of the ceilings was therefore a key objective of the renovation. Working closely with Derako ceiling suppliers for guidance, Frishert chose to replace the old ceilings with the warm tones of American red oak.
34 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
Image © AHEC
Image © AHEC
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
Project Details Renovation Architect: Gerard Frishert BNA/BNSP Client: Erasmus University Main Contractor: Breijer BV Wooden ceiling supplier: Derako International NV Glasswork: GBB Final completion date: September 2012 Construction period: 2008-2012 Gross floor area: 18,000m2 Final budget: EUR 40,000,000 Images: John Lewis Marshall Image © AHEC
Image © AHEC
Image © AHEC
Image © AHEC
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 35
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
Image © AHEC
The first of the buildings to be
In September 2012, the University
study corners have been built in the
renovated was Building A in 2009.
re-opened the renovated C building,
main hallway with bespoke benches
The building comprises all the offices
which includes two auditoriums:
where students can work in between
for the university professors as well
the larger auditorium seats 450
lectures. The warm tones of the red
as the main University auditorium
students and the smaller 350 seats.
oak ceilings contrast beautifully with
(Aula maxima). Some 3,500 m² of red
The C building can host up to 2,300
the muted grey tones of the concrete
oak ceilings were installed, including
students attending different lectures
sections. The area is brightened even
exterior ceilings under the main
or seminars. Over 3,000 m² of
more by two striking glass artworks
covered passage ways. The 15 x 70
American red oak solid wood ceilings
designed by Gerard Frishert to
(mm) solid red oak slats are clipped
were installed both indoors in the
enhance the original architecture.
onto a metal carrier system, which
main hallway of the building and
can be easily dismantled to access
outside under the overhangs of the
programme, the C building on Campus
technical installations underneath.
main buildings and the auditoriums.
Woudestein looks as crisp and modern
The ends of the slats are connected to
The entrance to the Monument is
as it was in 1970! A new Student
one another by pre-tooled tongue and
hugely enhanced by attractive red
Pavilion is currently being built which
groove connections. The grooves on
oak strips that follow the different
will act as a focal point in the middle
the back of the slats have fixing pins.
sloped angles of the overhangs
of the campus. The entire renovation
This method of connection guarantees
under the auditoriums creating
and new build master plan is
a durable and clean butt joint.
intricate patterns. Inside, numerous
scheduled to be completed by 2016.
Image © AHEC
36 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
After this extensive renovation
Image © AHEC
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
Analysis
Thermally-modified hardwoods: An opportunity for America’s temperate species I
n many temperate climates, timber
improve both the dimensional stability
clad buildings, decking, external
and the decay resistance of wood by
wooden structures and wooden
permanently altering its chemical and
windows are not just fashionable,
physical properties. By processing wood
they are the norm, In recent years,
produced from America’s well-managed
however, the trend for timber in these
hardwood forests, thermally-modified
applications has spread further afield,
US hardwoods provides an affordable
including to the Middle East. While
and environmentally-friendly alternative
timber is not a preferred material for
to certain hardwoods that might be
windows in the region, projects going
illegally harvested from endangered
or plank flooring made from heat-treated
up today are featuring wood in many
tropical rainforests.
hardwood lumber may be a solution to
other applications, such as shade
The thermal modification process
growing the available market for solid wood flooring.
structures, gazebos, bridges, decking
limits the ability of the wood to absorb
and outdoor furniture. In the Gulf, there
moisture, so the product is more
is now demand for significant volumes
dimensionally stable and less prone
furniture manufacturers to produce
of both tropical hardwood species and
to cup, warp and twist with changes
wooden outdoor furniture made from
pressure or chemically- treated softwood
in relative humidity. This increase
thermally-modified hardwoods and offer
species, offering high performance in
in dimensional stability significantly
it as an alternative to traditional species,
external applications. However, growing
extends the service life of applied
such as teak. In principle, heat-treated
environmental awareness and stricter
finishes, reducing maintenance costs.
hardwood furniture could be made from
environmental regulations are forcing
The thermal modification process also
lower-cost species, such as ash, red oak,
developers to look for timber from
removes those nutrients in wood that
tulipwood and soft maple. While this
sources, which have a proven record
would otherwise provide a food source
lower-material cost furniture might not
of sustainable management and low
for insects and wood-destroying fungi.
take market share away from teak, it
environmental impact. The process of
As a result, the end products do not
could win significant market share from
thermal modification (also known as
contain any toxic chemicals to improve
metal and plastic furniture.
heat treatment) is now able to provide
longevity and performance.
temperate hardwood species with
There is also an opportunity for
Heat-treated hardwoods also offer the possibility to produce more specialized
the requisite durability and resistance
Opportunities for End Use
to decay that was, traditionally, only
Thermal modification opens up
looking for something unique in their
offered by tropical hardwoods. Whilst
tremendous opportunities for
homes. For instance, heat-treated wood
the concept is not a new one, thermal
manufacturers of wood products. The
has been used to replace tiles on a
modification today is an industrial
improved moisture resistance and
shower floor. In Europe, heat-treated
process, using painstakingly developed
dimensional stability of thermally-
wood has also been commonly used in
technology and it truly represents a new
modified hardwoods make them an
spas for sauna benches because of its
opportunity for American hardwoods.
excellent option for wood flooring in
durability and low heat transfer.
Thermally-modified hardwoods
spaces where solid wood flooring has
wood products for those consumers
Homes with decks, balconies and
traditionally been ruled out for reasons
patios are also potential spaces for heat-
The thermal modification process, a clean
such as contact with water. Whilst,
treated hardwoods. Composite decking
and energy efficient technology, uses
engineered wood floors have been
products tend to be commonly specified,
high heat in a controlled atmosphere to
substituted in many of these areas, strip
however treated softwoods or cedar are
38 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
also used. Heat-treated hardwoods have the potential to replace both, particularly for those building on the waterfront. The thermal modification process also sequesters carbon within the wood, giving the end product a rich brown color. The appearance and uniform coloration rival that of many tropical hardwood species and its color alone may be enough to win over end users, as has been the case with numerous furniture manufacturers around the world who are just discovering this material for the first time.
Green credentials While the use of heat and, therefore, energy consumption may draw criticism from environmentalists, the end product does indeed deliver on the environmental claims it makes. In a comparison between heat-treated lumber and chemicallytreated lumber, a recent Life Cycle Assessment conducted in Europe found that the former had about the same carbon impact on the environment as the latter, primarily because thermal modification relies on heat. However, heat-treated lumber is ‘greener’ than Image © AHEC
chemically treated lumber because of the lack of chemicals used. Furthermore, in the case of American hardwoods, thermallymodified lumber can be also be positively differentiated in the marketplace due to the long history of good forest governance and management practices in the U.S hardwood industry. Thermally-modified American hardwoods may also be the first truly green lumber resource that performs better and costs less than alternative products developed to replace wood.
Market potential and the future The potential for thermally-modified American hardwoods is certainly promising, both in established markets as well as in developing ones. Somewhat limited availability may be a constraining factor for the immediate future, but this is changing very quickly, as producers adopt the technology across the United States, Canada and also in Europe and Asia. As the product becomes better known, it is anticipated that its potential as an alternative option in exterior applications or in wet environments will be exploited widely. Its consistent rich brown color, its dimensional stability, resistance to decay and its environmental credentials all point to it being one of the most exciting new products the wood industry has been Image © AHEC
able to offer in recent years.
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 39
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
Species Focus
American Hardwoods
Image Š AHEC
he hardwood forests of the
T
The Sustainable Resource
processing industry, which depends
eastern United States contain
The American hardwood industry,
upon this resource, is the largest
a wide range of temperate
which dates back to the first European
producer of sawn hardwood in the
hardwood species, which have been
settlers, has a wealth of experience
world. In recent years, the U.S. has
managed for commercial and non-
in processing the native hardwoods
substantially increased exports and
commercial purposes since the turn
of North America. The U.S. hardwood
through careful management of its
of the 20th century. Hardwoods from
resource is mainly located in the east
forests, the United States is growing
America offer specifiers, manufacturers
from Maine in the North to the Gulf of
more hardwood each year than it
and end-users around the world
Mexico in the South, and westwards
harvests, ensuring reliable and long
a great variety of color, grain and
across to the Mississippi valley.
term supplies. As the world faces
character; from the warm, darker
America also has more temperate
up to environmental change, with
tones of walnut, red alder, elm, cherry
hardwood species than any other
sustainability the watchword for
and red oak to the lighter hues of
region of the world.
natural materials, the good news is that the net volume of hardwood
white oak, maple and ash. Many of
Few other countries can boast
these species also have interesting
the success America has had in the
growing stock in the USA has increased
color contrasts between the sapwood
sustainability of its hardwood forests.
from 184,090 million cubic feet in
and heartwood, with species such
Due to the intensive application of
1953 to just under 400,000 million
as hickory, sapgum and tulipwood
Best Management Practices (BMP),
cubic feet in 2007 (Resource Planning
displaying exciting color variation
the hardwood forests of America
Act Assessment 2007).
within their heartwood as well. Most
support a vibrant healthy stand of
of the species can be used for a
timber, as well as a large and diverse
for independent assurances that U.S.
wide range of applications, from fine
wildlife population, clean rivers and
hardwoods derive from legal and
furniture and cabinets to internal
streams, and a host of recreational
sustainable sources, the American
joinery such as doors, stairs and
activities. The last 80 years of
Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) has
panelling. The physical properties of
improved forest management
published an Assessment of Lawful
some species, such as the oaks, hard
and state and federal regulations,
Harvesting and Sustainability of U.S.
maple, ash, walnut and hickory make
together with greater silvicultural
Hardwood Exports. This report was
them ideal for flooring. An important
understanding and public desire to
prepared by independent consultants
factor for manufacturers is that both
conserve forests, have resulted in a
and peer reviewed. The research
veneer and solid lumber are available
dramatic recovery and renewal of the
provides confirmation of the legal and
in most species, ensuring a good match
American hardwood resource.
sustainable status of U.S. hardwood
for any project.
40 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
The hardwood sawmilling and
Responding to increasing demands
forest management.
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
Physical & Mechanical Properties Specific gravity (12% MC)
Average weight (12% MC), Kg/m3
Average volumetric shrinkage (Green to 6% MC), %
Modulus of Rupture MPa
Modulus of Elasticity, MPa
Compressive strength (parallel to grain), MP
Hardness, N
Ash
0.60
673
6.2
103.425
11,997
51.092
5871
Basswood
0.37
417
12.6
59.987
10,067
32.613
1824
Birch
0.62
689
13.4
114.457
13,859
56.332
5604
Cherry
0.50
561
9.2
84.809
10,274
49.023
4226
Hickory
0.75
833
14.3
138.590
15,583
63.365
N/A
Pecan
0.66
737
N/A
94.462
11,928
54.126
8095
Hard maple
0.63
705
11.9
108.941
12,618
53.988
6450
Acer rubrum
0.49
801
10.5
92.393
11,308
45.093
4225
Acer macrophyllum
0.44
753
9.3
73.777
9,998
41.025
3780
Quercus rubra
0.63
705
6.6
98.599
12,549
46.610
5738
Quercus falcata
0.68
753
N/A
75.156
10,274
41.991
4715
White oak
0.68
769
12.6
104.804
12,273
44.955
6049
Tulipwood
0.42
449
9.8
69.640
10,894
38.198
2402
Walnut
0.55
417
10.2
100.677
11,584
52.264
4492
Soft maple
Red oak
Lawrence Lumber Company Inc.
Our Hardwood concentration yard in Maiden, NC is near Highway 321 and Interstate 40 where we process quality kiln dried Appalachian Hardwood lumber in these four species Red Oak, White Oak, Poplar and Ash. We: • sell kiln dried Red and White Oak in 4/4 through 8/4 thicknesses; Poplar in 4/4 through 12/4 thicknesses; and Ash in 4/4 through 8/4 thicknesses. The grades of lumber we sell are No. 2 Common and better. P.O. Box 750 Maiden, NC 28650 • We are now a direct importer of African Mahogany lumber and can Tel: (828) 428-5601 Fax: (828) 428-5602 furnish you with kiln-dried 4/4 - 8/4 thicknesses of this species. website: www.lawrencelumberinc.com • have 800,000 board feet per charge of dry kiln capacity counting our For Appalachian Hardwood lumber sales contact Steve Staryak at new predryer/dry kiln and five dry kilns. We also have two fan sheds totaling 500 MBF capacity. (828) 428-5601, or email him at sstaryak@nc.rr.com Green lumber vendors please contact Steve Leonard at (828) 446-0845, or • have dedicated employees with many years of experience who are getting your orders prepared to your exact specifications. email him at sgleonard@bellsouth.net • inspect our lumber after kiln drying. • offer many services like export prep, mixed truckloads, container loading, dipping our lumber in ISK Biocides’ chemicals, S2S, SLR1E, and width sorting. • process and sell 18 to 20 million board feet a year of the lumber species we deal in.
DELIVERING EXPECTATIONS WORLDWIDE
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 41
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
American Red Oak Quercus spp.
American Walnut Juglans nigra
American White Oak Quercus spp.
General Description
General description
General description
The sapwood of red oak is white to light
The sapwood of walnut is creamy white, while
White oak is similar in color and appearance to
brown and the heartwood is often a pinkish
the heartwood is light brown to dark chocolate
European oak. The sapwood of American white
reddish brown. The wood is similar in general
brown, occasionally with a purplish cast and
oak is light colored and the heartwood is light
appearance to white oak, but with a slightly less
darker streaks. Walnut is usually supplied
to dark brown. White oak is mostly straight
pronounced figure due to the smaller rays and
steamed, which darkens the sapwood, but
grained with a medium to coarse texture, with
a more porous end grain structure. The wood is
a very unique look can also be achieved by
longer rays than red oak. White oak, therefore,
mostly straight grained with a coarse texture.
leaving it natural. The wood is generally straight
has more figure.
Other Common names Northern red oak, Southern red oak
Distribution & Availability
grained, but sometimes with wavy or curly grain that produces an attractive and decorative
Other Common names
figure. The dark heartwood will lighten in color
Northern white oak, Southern white oak
as it ages over time with exposure to UV light.
Widespread throughout Eastern USA. The oaks
Other Common names
are by far the largest species group growing in
Black walnut, American walnut
the Eastern hardwood forests. Red oaks grow
Distribution and availability Widespread throughout Eastern USA. The white oak group comprises many species, of which about eight are commercial. Very widely
more abundantly than the white oaks. The red
Distribution and availability
oak group comprises many species, of which
Throughout Eastern USA, but principal
about eight are commercial. Excellent availability
commercial region is the central United States.
as lumber or veneer in a wide range of grades
One of the few American species planted as
Physical and mechanical properties
and specifications. Red oak is often classified
well as naturally regenerated. Reasonable
A hard and heavy wood with medium bending
according to growing regions and marketed as
availability in both lumber and veneer.
and crushing strength, low in stiffness, but
Northern red oak and Southern red oak.
Physical & Mechanical Properties
Physical and mechanical properties
available in lumber and veneer, in a full range of grades and specifications.
very good in steam bending. Its good overall strength means it is increasingly being used
Walnut is a tough, hard timber of medium
by architects and designers in structural
The wood is hard and heavy, with medium
density, with moderate bending and crushing
applications.
bending strength and stiffness and high crushing
strengths and low stiffness. It has a good steam
strength. It is very good for steam bending.
bending classification.
Working Properties
Working Properties
Red oak machines well; nailing and screwing
Walnut works easily with hand and machine
reacts with iron, galvanized or copper nails
is good although pre-boring is recommended,
tools, and nails, screws and glues well. It holds
are recommended. Its adhesive properties
and it can be stained and polished to a very
paints and stains very well and can be polished
are variable, but it stains and polishes to a
good finish. It performs best when dried slowly,
to an exceptional finish. It performs best
good finish. The wood dries slowly and care
reducing the opportunity for degrade such as
when dried slowly, reducing the opportunity
is needed to avoid checking. Due to its high
splits and warp. It has a high shrinkage and can
for degrade. Walnut has good dimensional
shrinkage, it can be susceptible to movement
be susceptible to movement in performance
stability.
in performance under variable moisture
under variable moisture conditions.
Main Uses
Main Uses
Working Properties White oak machines well, nails and screws well, although pre-boring is advised. As it
conditions.
Furniture, cabinet making, architectural
Main Uses
Construction, furniture, flooring, architectural
interiors, high-class joinery, doors, flooring,
Construction, furniture, flooring, architectural
interiors, internal joinery, stairs and mouldings,
gunstocks and panelling. A favored wood for
joinery, exterior joinery, mouldings, doors,
doors, kitchen cabinets, panelling and coffins. Not
using in contrast with lighter colored timbers.
kitchen cabinets, panelling, railway sleepers,
suitable for tight cooperage. Red oak can vary in color, texture, characteristics and properties according to the growing region. It is therefore recommended that users and specifiers work closely with their suppliers to make sure the wood they order is suited to their specific needs.
42 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
timber bridges, barrel staves and coffins.
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
American Ash Fraxinus spp.
American Cherry Prunus serotina
American Hard Maple Acer saccharum, Acer nigrum
General description
General description
General Description
American ash is similar in appearance to European
The heartwood of American cherry varies from
The sapwood is creamy white with a slight
ash. The sapwood is light colored to nearly white
rich red to reddish brown and will darken on
reddish brown tinge and the heartwood varies
and the heartwood varies from greyish brown to
exposure to light. In contrast the sapwood is
from light to dark reddish brown. The amount of
light brown, to pale yellow streaked with brown.
creamy white. Cherry can be supplied steamed,
darker brown heartwood can vary significantly
The wood is generally straight grained with a
to darken sapwood or left unsteamed. The
according to growing region. Both sapwood
coarse uniform texture. The degree and availability
wood has a fine uniform straight grain, smooth
and heartwood can contain pith fleck. The
of light colored sapwood, and other properties,
texture, and may naturally contain brown pith
wood has a close fine texture and is generally
will vary according to the growing regions. For
flecks and small gum pockets.
straight grained, but it can also occur as ‘curly’,
example, Southern ash lumber will be faster grown and contain more sapwood and therefore, a
Other Common names
higher percentage of white color, but compared to
American black cherry
Northern ash, it has a more open texture and grain.
Other Common names
Distribution and availability
‘fiddleback’, and ‘birdseye’ figure.
Other Common names Sugar maple, black maple
Found throughout Eastern USA, but main
Distribution and availability
commercial areas are Pennsylvania, Virginia,
Eastern USA, principally Northeastern and
West Virginia and New York State. Although
Lake States. A cold weather tree favoring a
cherry accounts for less than 2 percent of
more northerly climate. Widely available as
Distributed throughout Eastern USA. Good
the growing hardwood resource, it is widely
lumber and veneer. The higher quality grades
availability as lumber and veneer. The lumber is
available in a full range of specifications and
of lumber are available selected for white color
often classified according to growing regions and
grades as both lumber and veneer.
(sapwood), although this can limit availability.
Northern ash, Southern ash
Distribution and availability
marketed as Northern ash and Southern ash. It is sometimes separated for color and sold as
Physical and mechanical properties
white ash (sapwood) or brown ash (heartwood).
The wood is of medium density with good
American ash can comprise a number of
wood bending properties. It has low stiffness,
commercial sub species and is available in a
medium strength and shock resistance.
wide range of grades and specifications as
Figured maple (birdseye, curly, fiddleback) is generally only available in commercial volumes as veneer.
Physical and mechanical properties The wood is hard and heavy with good
lumber and veneer. Note that white ash is the
Working Properties
commercial name for Fraxinus americana.
Cherry is easy to machine. It nails and glues
resistance to abrasion and wear. It also has
well and when sanded, stained and polished,
good steam bending properties.
Physical and mechanical properties
it produces an excellent smooth finish. It dries
strength properties, in particular its high
Ash has very good overall strength properties
fairly quickly with moderately large shrinkage,
Working Properties
relative to its weight. It has excellent shock
but is dimensionally stable after kilning.
Hard maple dries slowly with a large
resistance and is good for steam bending.
Working Properties
Main Uses
shrinkage, so it can be susceptible to movement in performance. Pre-boring is
Furniture and cabinet making, high-class
recommended when nailing and screwing.
Ash machines well, is good in nailing, screwing
joinery, kitchen cabinets, mouldings, panelling,
With care it machines well, turns well, glues
and gluing, and can be stained and polished to
flooring, doors, boat interiors, musical
satisfactorily, and can be stained and polished
a very good finish. It dries fairly easily with
instruments, turning and carving. The subtle
to an outstanding finish.
minimal degrade, and good stability means
range of red tones found in the heartwood
there is little movement in performance.
have made this species very fashionable for
Main Uses
many high end applications.
Flooring, furniture, panelling, kitchen cabinets,
Main Uses
worktops and table tops, interior joinery:
Furniture, flooring, doors, architectural
stairs, handrails, mouldings, and doors. The
interiors, high class joinery and moulding,
hard wearing properties and tight smooth grain
kitchen cabinets, panelling, tool handles, sports
make this species ideal for high traffic flooring
goods and turning. A versatile, good-looking
applications, such as theatres, concert halls,
wood, offering great value for a wide range of
gymnasiums and basketball courts.
joinery and furniture applications.
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 43
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
American Soft Maple Acer rubrum, Acer saccharinum
American Alder Alnus rubra
American Tulipwood Liriodendron tulipifera
General Description
General description
General description
In most respects the wood of soft maple is very
Red alder is almost white when freshly cut
The sapwood is creamy white and may be
similar to that of hard maple, although due to its
but quickly changes on exposure to air to
streaked, with the heartwood varying from pale
widespread growth it may be more susceptible
light brown with a yellow or reddish tinge.
yellowish brown to olive green. The green color in
to regional color variations. Generally the
Heartwood is formed only in trees of advanced
the heartwood will tend to darken on exposure to
sapwood is greyish white, sometimes with
age and there is no visible boundary between
UV light and turn brown. The wood has a medium
darker colored pith flecks, and the heartwood
sap and heartwood. The wood is fairly straight
to fine texture and is straight grained. The size of
varies from light to dark reddish brown. The
grained with a uniform texture.
the sapwood and some physical characteristics
wood is usually straight grained. The lumber is generally sold unselected for color.
Other Common names Red maple, silver maple
Distribution and availability
Other Common names Red alder, Western red alder, Western alder
Distribution and availability West coast USA, principally the Pacific North West, where it is the most common commercial
will vary according to growing regions. The wood has many desirable characteristics and is suitable for a wide variety of important uses. Tulipwood is not a poplar (Populus) and has many superior properties. However the tree resembles the shape of the European poplar, hence its name in the USA.
Wide distribution throughout Eastern USA,
hardwood. Available in a range of grades
Other Common names
however, Pacific coast/big leaf maple (Acer
and specifications as both rough lumber and
Yellow poplar (USA), tulip poplar (USA), canary
macrophyllum) grows exclusively in the Pacific
dimension stock, although veneer production is
whitewood
Northwest. Availability is improving as demand
more limited.
increases in export markets.
Physical and mechanical properties
Physical and mechanical properties
Distribution and availability Widespread throughout Eastern USA. Widely
Red alder is a relatively soft hardwood of
available in a full range of standard lumber
Soft maple is about 25 percent less hard
medium density that has low bending strength,
thicknesses. Excellent availability as lumber and
than hard maple, has medium bending and
shock resistance and stiffness.
veneer. Tulipwood is one of the largest trees
crushing strength, and is low in stiffness and
in the U.S. forest and can produce very wide
shock resistance. It has good steam bending
Working Properties
properties.
Red alder machines well and is excellent for
knot free. It represents around 9 percent of the
turning and polishing. It nails, screws and glues
standing hardwood resource, which ensures
well, and can be sanded, painted, or stained
continuity and volume supply to export markets.
Working Properties
and long specifications, which are relatively
Soft maple machines well and can be stained
to a very good finish. It dries easily with little
and polished to an excellent finish. It glues,
degrade and has good dimensional stability
Physical and mechanical properties
screws, and nails satisfactorily. It dries slowly
after drying.
A medium density wood with low bending, shock
with minimal degrade and has good stability
resistance, stiffness and compression values,
which means there is little movement in
Main Uses
performance.
Furniture, kitchen cabinets, doors, interior
Tulipwood is very strong for its weight and is
mouldings, turning, carving and kitchen
ideal for laminated beams and structures.
Main Uses
utensils. Widely used by furniture industries
with a medium steam bending classification.
Furniture, panelling, interior joinery,
around the world, its color makes it an ideal
Working Properties
kitchen cabinets, mouldings, doors, musical
substitute for cherry.
A versatile timber that is easy to machine,
instruments, and turning. Soft maple is often
plane, turn, glue and bore. It dries easily with
used as a substitute for hard maple or stained
minimal degrade. It has very good dimensional
to resemble other species such as cherry. Its
stability and has little tendency to split when
physical and working properties also make it a
nailed. It takes and holds paint, enamel and
possible substitute for beech.
stain exceptionally well.
Main Uses Construction, furniture, interior joinery, kitchen cabinets, doors, panelling, mouldings, edgedglued panels, plywood (USA), turning and carving.
44 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
AMERICAN HARDWOODs
American Hickory & Pecan Carya spp.
American Yellow Birch Betula alleghaniensis
American Basswood Tilia americana
General description
General description
General Description
The hickories are an important group within the
Yellow birch has a white sapwood and light
The sapwood of basswood is usually quite
eastern hardwood forests. Botanically, they are
reddish brown heartwood. The wood is
large and creamy white in color, merging into
split into two groups; the true hickories, and
generally straight grained with a fine uniform
the heartwood, which is pale to reddish brown,
the pecan hickories (fruit bearing). The wood is
texture.
sometimes with darker streaks. The wood has
virtually the same for both and is usually sold
a fine uniform texture and indistinct grain that
together. The sapwood of hickory and pecan is
Distribution and availability
white, tinged with brown while the heartwood
Eastern USA, principally Northern and Lake
is pale to reddish brown. Both are coarse
States. Reasonable availability, but more
Other Common names
textured and the grain is usually straight but
limited if selected for color, i.e. red birch
Linden, American whitewood, American linn
can be wavy or irregular.
(heartwood) or white birch (sapwood).
Distribution and availability Eastern USA, principal commercial areas are the Central and Southern states. Readily
is straight.
Increasingly found in export markets, although
Distribution and availability
volumes produced may limit sizes and grades
Eastern USA, principally the Northern and Lake
available.
States, where there is reasonable availability as lumber and veneer. Lumber is produced in a
available, but more limited if sold selected
Physical and mechanical properties
for color as either red or white hickory or
The wood of yellow birch is heavy, hard
pecan. For export, lumber may be limited in
and strong. It has very good wood bending
the higher grades and available mainly in
properties, with good crushing strength and
Physical and mechanical properties
thinner stock.
shock resistance.
The wood is light and soft with generally low
Physical and mechanical properties
Working Properties
The density and strength of the hickories will
The wood works fairly easily, glues well with
vary according to the rate of growth, with the
care, takes stain and polish extremely well,
Working Properties
true hickories generally showing higher values
and nails and screws satisfactorily where
Basswood machines well and is easy to work
than the pecan hickories. The wood is well
pre-boring is advised. It dries rather slowly
with hand tools making it a premier carving
known for its very good strength and shock
with little degrade, but it has moderately high
wood. It nails, screws, and glues fairly well
resistance and it also has excellent steam
shrinkage, so can be susceptible to movement
and can be sanded, stained, and polished to a
bending properties.
in performance.
good smooth finish. It dries fairly rapidly with
Working Properties
Main Uses
The hickories are considered difficult to
Furniture, internal joinery and panelling, doors,
machine and glue, and are very hard to work
flooring, kitchen cabinets, turning and toys.
with hand tools, so care is needed. They hold
range of thicknesses, specifications and grades, although volumes may be limited.
strength properties and a poor steam bending classification.
little distortion or degrade. It has a fairly large shrinkage but good dimensional stability when dry.
Main Uses
nails and screws well, but there is a tendency
Other Information
to split so pre-boring is advised. The wood can
Often sorted for sap (sapwood) or red
mouldings, interior joinery and musical
be sanded and polished to a good finish. It can
(heartwood). When sorted for color, the FAS
instruments. An important specialized use is
be difficult to dry and has a large shrinkage,
grade will allow a 5-inch minimum width.
Venetian blinds or internal window shutters.
which may affect stability under variable
Paper birch is a much softer textured birch
moisture conditions.
species, which is lighter in color, with scattered
Other Information
brown flecks and should not be confused with
Often produced in 9/4 (57.15mm) thickness
yellow birch.
for venetian blinds. Pin knots and light brown
Main Uses
Carving, turning, furniture, pattern-making,
Tool handles, furniture, cabinetry, flooring,
mineral streaks are a natural characteristic and
wooden ladders, dowels and sporting goods.
not considered a defect.
Hickory is increasingly being exported for flooring, for its attractive rustic look and hardwearing properties.
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 45
American red oak Hakkasan Dubai, Executive Architects: Woods Bagot
Natural Selection. American Hardwood.
Each kilogram of U.S. hardwood product stores the equivalent of 1.835 kilograms of CO for as long as it remains in use.
For more information visit: www.americanhardwood.org Follow us on Twitter
SHOW PREVIEW
Preview 8 Dubai International Wood th
and Wood Machinery Show
T
he 8th edition of the Dubai WoodShow is set to take place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Center from April 9 11 this year. With over 300 exhibitors from more than 40 countries expected to take part, the show remains the leading exhibition in the region that offers a chance for the timber industry to meet wood and woodworking professionals and develop ideas for increasing
the range and quality of business and learn about new techniques and sources of supply. As a must-attend event for anyone who is passionate about wood, the exhibition is the UAE’s largest convention for distributors, suppliers, interior designers, furniture manufacturers, carpenters, wholesale traders and retailers, building material manufacturers, construction suppliers and project developers. The exhibitor profile for the event include the latest products and innovations in MDF, plywood, hardwood, softwood, veneers, timbers, parquet, laminates, finished wood merchandise, paper products, as well as wood machineries and related products and services Timber Design & Technology throws the spotlight on some of the exhibitors at the show this year.
American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) Stand N1 At the Dubai WoodShow, the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), the leading international trade association for the American hardwood industry, will be hosting a pavilion that will see the participation of nineteen U.S. hardwood lumber and veneer exporters under the banner of the American Hardwood Pavilion. AHEC’s participation at ‘Dubai WoodShow 2013’ is aimed at promoting American hardwoods in the face of increasing demand for timber across the GCC and wider Middle East region. The American Hardwood Pavilion will serve to highlight the variety of American hardwood species while also throwing the spotlight on the benefits of the value-added processes undertaken to supply such a high quality and high yielding raw material. Representing the committed exporters among U.S. hardwood companies and all the major U.S. hardwood production trade associations, AHEC runs a worldwide programme to promote American hardwoods in over 50 export markets, concentrating on providing architects, specifiers, designers and end-users with technical information on the range of species, products and sources of supply.
Farlin Timbers FZE Stand J-1A Farlin Timbers FZE, a subsidiary of the globally renowned Farlin Group of Companies, is a leading supplier of timber in the Middle East with a reputation synonymous with quality and reliability among its partners. Dedicated to excellence and customer service, it is little wonder that they are the trusted partner of choice for a wide variety of products, including timber logs, sawn timber, plywood, MDF and panel products from across the world. Farlin Timbers is an integral part of the Farlin Group of Companies - the Singapore based multinational that provides superior quality materials to diverse industries globally. A 24-year legacy of experience has helped forge the Group as a highly successful global organization with a turnover in excess of USD 1 billion and a reputation of integrity, honesty and reliability in the international market. With offices across the world committed to unparalleled service and competitive value, the Farlin Group is an outstanding choice of all building materials and energy sectors needs.
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 47
SHOW PREVIEW
Baillie Lumber Stand N-2G Baillie Lumber is one of North America’s largest hardwood lumber manufacturers, distributors and exporters, providing hardwood logs, hardwood lumber and proprietary grade hardwood lumber products. Founded in 1923, Baillie has grown from a regional supplier of American hardwoods to an international hardwood manufacturer that can ship hardwood lumber to any region of the world. Today, Baillie is a leading provider of hardwood logs, hardwood lumber and proprietary grade hardwood lumber products with hardwood manufacturing facilities that are spread north to south in the eastern United States. The company owns and operates several sawmills and concentration yards, which are conveniently located near the principal North American shipping routes and seaports. In addition, Baillie also maintains relationships with several partner mills and suppliers in the U.S. and internationally, which supplement its own hardwood manufacturing capabilities thereby giving the company a breadth of specie availability unmatched by other hardwood manufacturers. The main species that the company currently supplies includes white oak, red oak, hard maple, soft maple, walnut, cherry, ash, poplar, African mahogany, genuine mahogany, and sapele.
Lawrence Lumber Company (LLC) Stand N-3E Lawrence Lumber Company is a 28-acre hardwood concentration yard located in Maiden, NC at the base of the Appalachian Mountains. Built in 2000 by the Gori family of Rome, Italy, Lawrence Lumber utilizes state of the art technology for their Appalachian hardwoods to produce 18 million board feet per year. The company offers Kiln Dried Red Oak, White Oak, and White Ash in 4/4 through 8/4 and Poplar in 4/4 through 12/4, all 2 common and better qualities. In addition, ship and dry lumber is also available upon request. Load to load, Lawrence Lumber is committed to ensuring its customers receive the finest quality lumber that enables them to get the best yield out of the products they are manufacturing.
Chabros International Group Stand J-6 Chabros is a leading producer and supplier of wood and veneer and a distributor of a wide range of interior and exterior products that have been specified and used in major high-end projects throughout the Middle East for over 40 years. With an aim to cater to the innovative needs of woodworking professionals, architects & interior designers as well as contractors, Chabros has established overseas production units and distribution points throughout the Middle East Region, targeting businesses that are in search for quality products and exceptional service. In addition to its strong regional presence, Chabros is always devoted to expand its range of products to provide original and fresh design solutions to the market. The company has been in business since the early 1960s, and has evolved to become one of the largest distributors of Wood & Veneer, Parquet & Decking, Marquetry & Mother of Pearl. Chabros has also added a line of services to its current product offerings including veneer stitching & pressing, sanding, veneer finger jointing, parquet and exterior decking installation as well as teak yacht decking.
48 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
SHOW PREVIEW
Dubai WoodShow Seminar Following on from the success of the ‘Timber Legality’ seminar organized at the Dubai WoodShow 2012, the next edition will play host to a full-day seminar where relevant issues that play crucial roles in the wood and woodworking machinery industry will be presented and discussed by experts. The seminar on timber and its use in the GCC will benefit participants, both exhibitors and visitors, immensely as it presents the right platform to learn more about timely issues and to discuss their impact on industry businesses and related areas of interest. A panel of expert speakers will present and discuss topics such as ‘UAE Standards and Specifications’; ‘Wood Utilization in the Gulf’; ‘Dubai Green Building Codes’; ‘Introduction to Green Building Core - LEED GA’; ‘LCA for Wood’; ‘Innovation in Sustainability’; and other related topics. The speakers have been selected from a host of different organizations including the UAE Society of Engineers; the Emirates Authority For Standardization & Metrology; American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC); Dubai Municipality; and Dubai Central Laboratory amongst others.
Wemhöner Surface Technologies
Wemhöner first exported presses to countries outside Europe in the
Stand L-2B
1950s, pioneering the opening of formerly sealed markets in Eastern
Technology, quality, and innovation have been the three pillars in the
Europe and Asia. Today, Wemhöner is among the top providers
success story of Wemhöner over more than 85 years. Traditionally
of presses and panel line equipment for wood and non-wood
linked with the wood based panel industry, the furniture industry
products on account of its ability to observe and respond to market
and their suppliers, Wemhöner, which was founded in 1925, employs
changes whilst also pacing its technological advances. Through
around 250 people who produce machines and equipment for value
careful planning and solid craftsmanship, Wemhöner has proven its
adding of wood based panels. Today machines and machine lines are
continued expertise and knowledge and has established itself as a
produced on a production area of more than 12.000 m².
firm technological leader.
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 49
PREVIEW
Strongwood Stand J-1C3 Strongwood is an international trading company providing construction materials solutions to meet a wide range of specifications and requirements. The company set up its office in
Date: 9-11 April 2013 Venue: Halls 6, 7 & 8
Dubai, United Arab Emirates with the aim of supplying softwoods, plywood, MDF for use in construction in the Middle East. Since then, it has rapidly grown to become a leading supplier of softwoods, hardwoods, plywood, MDF to the UAE and wider Middle East region as well as to global markets.
Location: Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Center Timings: 10:00- 18:00
As the agents of SVEZA, the world’s largest producer of Birch plywood, the company’s participation at Dubai WoodShow 2013 will serve to highlight SVEZA’s Film Faced Birch Plywood - a high-quality plywood with special film. The product has a laminated surface that stops moisture from penetrating and that provides resistance
Exhibition Size: 14,000+ square meters Expected Visitors: 10,000+ specialized trade visitors
to abrasion, aggressive environments, fungus and mold. Further, its’ edges are sealed with water-resistant acrylic paint. This type of plywood is widely used in the construction industry in formwork systems for cast-in-situ construction.
PVS International Stand J1BA PVS International is a global leader in the supply chain management of wood products. Guided by a philosophy to provide quality and sustainable wood, it is a leading supplier to major industries including construction, packaging and furniture manufacture. PVS International operates in 8 countries and employs over 150 people worldwide. The company established its first office in Singapore in 1992 for the purpose of sourcing Malaysian hardwoods for use in construction in the Middle Eastern markets. Since then, it has grown to become a leading supplier of logs, sawn timber, wood panels and other finished wood products worldwide. With purchasing offices located in China, Malaysia, Brazil and Romania, the company has developed its proprietary supply chain management system where quality control and timely deliveries are given the utmost priority. By constantly opening new markets and discovering alternate sources of supply, PVS International has made significant progress towards achieving its goal of becoming a global trader. United Agencies is the exclusive worldwide sales representative for PVS International. It began with the aim of creating a comprehensive sales network for construction materials in the Middle East and has grown since then to include Africa, Europe, the Indian Sub-continent and South America. What makes United Agencies unique is its strategy to only tie up with suppliers on an exclusive basis to avoid any inter-agency competition within any particular market.
50 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
Expected Exhibitors: 300+
PROFILE TECHNOLOGY
DANZER strengthens its presence in the Gulf Image © DANZER
D
ANZER, a leading global
hardwood products. Customers
and innovative product, ‘DANZER
timber company, which
around the world are being served
LINEA’, made from real species. The
operates in the Gulf
from a total of 21 sales offices.
result is that the customer gets
region through its subsidiary
DANZER employs some 2,200 people
a consistent high quality veneer,
INTERHOLCO AG, has increased
worldwide (www.danzer.com).
cut to size. ‘DANZER LINEA’ has
its offerings by opening a veneer
DANZER uses modern techniques,
an excellent yield, compared to a comparable rift cut veneer.
sales division. DANZER specializes
employs highly skilled people and
in the manufacture of decorative
runs eco-friendly operations to keep
real wooden surfaces, logs and
the impact on the forest as low as
second product, ‘DANZER FIGURA’.
sawn timber from high-quality
possible. Forest areas are being
Figured veneer is costly and often
hardwoods. The company ethos is
prepared for generations to come
hard to get. Only a few veneer logs
one of quality and reliability and this
and DANZER provides its employees
exhibit a highly decorative figure
comes through in every aspect of
with education, healthcare, technical
but DANZER has developed a new
the business. Everything they do is
and managerial training programmes
process that secures a consistent
designed to satisfy their customers.
as well as logistics in order to favor
supply of fine figure across a wide
rural development and enhance
variety of species reducing cost and
customer service.
offering better supply.
The company is represented in Europe, North America, Africa
DANZER have also developed a
Through the opening of a new
DANZER has also been present in
manages its own forests and forest
veneer sales division in the Gulf
the Gulf region for quite some time
concessions, operates veneer plants
region, DANZER now offers a
through INTERHOLCO AG (IHC), which
and sawmills, and runs production
consistent supply of high quality rift
is a subsidiary of the company. IHC
plants for the manufacture of
cut veneer at a competitive price.
was founded by DANZER in 1962.
technical and 3D veneers. The
This is often challenging but DANZER
The company has its head office in
various sites process primarily
has developed a reliable and cost
Baar, Switzerland, and the company
regional timbers into high-quality
effective solution with its new
has extensive experience with Africa
and Asia. DANZER sustainably
52 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
PROFILE
DANZER Facts & Figures Business units - Veneer - Lumber - Timber - Specialty Division (Vinterio & 3D-Veneer) Market position - One of the largest producer of FSC Certified African Logs & lumber - Largest producer of decorative veneer worldwide - One of the top ten producers of hardwood lumber in North America and Africa Staff and operations - Approx. 2,200 employees - 4 veneer factories, 1 Vinterio factory, 1 3D-Veneer factory, 2 sawmills, 21 sales outlets - 2.9 million acres (1.16 million hectares) of well managed forest concessions in Africa (certified according to the FSC-standard). - 48,000 acres (20,000 hectares) of well managed forests in North America Europe - 2 veneer factories, 1 Vinterio factory, 1 3D-Veneer factory - 7 sales outlets North & South America - 2 veneer factories, 1 sawmill - 11 sales outlets Africa - 1 sawmill - 1 sales outlet Asia - 2 sales outlets
Image Š DANZER
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 53
PROFILE
and manages its own concession in the Republic of Congo with 1.2 million hectares of FSC certified forests. Since its formation the company has continuously developed its market position for African logs and lumber. Sapelli, Sipo, Bossé, Tiama, Iroko, Wengé, Afrormosia, Tola and Khaya / Acajou make up the large majority of the IHC product range. Customers include manufacturers of flooring, windows, stairs and terrace decking as well as importers and boat builders. In its industrial operations at the sawmill level, modern working Image © DANZER
processes are being used so as to offer a wide range of products. Logs are available in a lot of various qualities, lumber in random and fixed dimensions, strips, decking, laminated and finger jointed products. In addition, pre-drying capacities and modern kiln-dryers guarantee the regular supply of large volumes of Image © DANZER
KD lumber. IHC is also able to give
Image © DANZER
its customers high quality finished
Through the opening of a new veneer sales division in the Gulf region, DANZER now offers a consistent supply of high quality rift cut veneer at a competitive price
customers, IHC today has created
being close to the forest resource,
customers receive a calculable and
presence in the region and thanks
IHC accumulates lots of experience in
consistent raw material, helping
to its very professional partner,
procurement and production, which
them to reduce their production and
IHC is able to offer top quality,
enables it to service its customer
material cost.
light steamed and pre-planed
products at very competitive pricing, taking advantage of the decreasing availability of Asian species and using African species that adapt well to end user needs, thereby answering the markets call for higher quality lumber. With its office set-up in Bahrain, IHC stays close to its customers and is able to respond to the growing GCC markets. While on the other hand
requirements. IHC’s personal and
By studying the whole industrial
a network of highly respected partners for the worldwide distribution of their products. IHC has created new possibilities in terms of sourcing new species from North America and has also partnered with ABALON Hardwood, a reputed supplier of Beech, a few years ago with an aim to increase its
German and Austrian Beech lumber
daily contact to its production helps
process and discussing with the
across the whole of GCC. Today, 13
customers to have direct access to a
end-users, IHC tries to reduce waste
various grades of Beech lumber and
reliable and consistent raw material
to a possible minimum. For example,
FSC certification are available on
source. They can buy specific grades
the company initiated the production
demand.
and products needed and take
of finger-jointed and laminated
advantage of the existing logistical
scantlings directly in Congo/Africa.
working with its sister companies
set-up. IHC customers can also profit
With this new production line, more
INTERFOREST and BRADFORD
from the recognized product quality,
value is being added and timber is
FOREST PRODUCTS, which allows the
which is guaranteed by a well-
getting more competitive again in
company to source white oak, red
organized grading concept based on
comparison to other construction
oak, cherry, walnut, maple and ash
clearly defined grading standards. As
materials used.
from the best areas thereby enabling
such, end users and local importers are easily able to use and resell
Given its transparent sales strategy and support for key
In North America, IHC is
the company to offer consistent quality and quantity. Confident of even more growth
delivered products.
in this region, DANZER will be
While IHC constantly modernizes its production processes, the
participating at the upcoming Dubai
overall yield from the forest until
WoodShow 2013. Its participation
the finished product improves
will allow it to throw the spotlight
considerably. This helps customers
on some of its new innovative
save a lot of time during their sorting
products and also presents an opportunity to talk to the company’s
and production process and increases massively their own yield. As such,
54 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
Image © DANZER
highly trained specialists.
DANZER Your reliable partner within the decorative veneer and hardwood industry
Interholco AG Your trusted partner for certified legal and sustainable hardwood with decades of experience in procurement and production. Sawn timber, deckings, flooring, fingerjointed products in Afromosia, Iroko, Sapelli, Wenge and many others.
DanzerVeneer When You‘re looking for consistant product quality and large variety of species look to Danzer to help you find a best-fit- solution We work with you to meet your specific projects needs – and to exceed your expectations.
INTERHOLCO AG
t us at: ease visi
pl
Innovative Hardwood Company Benoit Moreau Phone: 009 73 (0)39 710 630 benoit.moreau@interholco.com interholco.com
DANZER VENEER
Danzer Middle East Mahdi Amroussia Mobile: 009 71(0)56 34 998 70 Phone: 009 71(0)44 30 05 42 Mahdi_Amroussia@danzer.com danzerveneer.com
1, 2013 April 9-1 th O1 oo Hall 8 | B
danzer.com
SHOWTIME
Top Industry
Exhibitions coming up This season
FOREST AND WOOD 2013 FOREST AND WOOD 2013 is being organized in order to promote the identification of regional and international enterprises working in the sector, as well as to stimulate business development for these enterprises and to increase their sales volumes. The exhibition offers an opportunity for enterprises to position themselves in the sector of forestry and timber by advertising themselves and their new production and services, as well as by showcasing
Forst Live 2013
their achievements in various aspects. The exhibition aims to stimulate sales and production as it attracts a significant number of visitors that are potential clients of the participating enterprises.
Forst Live takes place in Offenburg, Germany and is one of
The show this year is expected to host over 100
the leading exhibitions for forestry technology, wood energy
exhibitors focusing on woodworking machinery and cutting-
and biomass. Over the course of three days, visitors can
edge technologies for the industry. As a leading event, the
experience the entire path of wood - from harvesting in the
exhibition offers a platform for specialists representing
forest and processing to use as fuel. In addition to focusing
the forestry and other related sectors to establish business
on forestry technology, the show also places importance on
relations, offer professional consultancy, and evaluate the
renewable energies. The show is aimed primarily at decision
industry and recent trends. The exhibition will take place
makers in the forestry and agriculture, construction and
alongside the 17th Garden and Floristry Exhibition (GARDEN.
municipal economy, timber crafts and energy industry as
FLORA 2013) and the 10th International Exhibition for
well as interested end consumers.
Agricultural Industry and Infrastructure (RIGAAGRO 2013).
The show features practical demonstrations on machinery and equipment involved in forestry and renewable energy technologies. Experts in this field get the chance to educate those interested in forestry, and also get to communicate amongst themselves on ideas and new techniques that can help better their work. Over 260 exhibitors are expected
Date: 12 - 14 April Venue: International Exhibition Center Location: Kipsala, Latvia Expected Attendees: 18,000+ WEBSITE: www.bt1.lv/bt1/mk/?link=10000000
to showcase their offerings in the areas of forestry, timber industry, renewable energies and the general outdoors. Displays will include mobile sawmills, tree stump grinders, woodworking machines, wood splitters, lifts, crane splitters, mobile sawmill
TECHNOMEBEL
technology, saws and wood chip heating systems.
Date: 12 - 14 April Venue: Exhibition Center Offenburg Location: Offenburg, Germany Timings: 09:00 - 17:30 Expected Attendees: 25,000+ WEBSITE: www.forst-live.de
TECHNOMEBEL is Bulgaria’s largest specialized exhibition for materials, woodworking machinery and equipment, and furniture manufacturing and will showcase novel technologies and techniques for woodworking and furniture production in addition to a variety of materials, fittings, accessories and improved chemical products for the surface treatment of wood. The exhibition is divided into two main categories: materials and accessories for the furniture industry; and machines and tools for woodworking, furniture production, plus technologies for the woodworking and furniture industry. The exhibition is being held in parallel with the WORLD OF FURNITURE exhibition focusing on end customers and examining new trends in interior and furniture design. As such, this will ensure both experts and the general public are able to witness everything for the furniture industry in one place. According to the organizers, the interest of Bulgarian and foreign companies in the exhibition has remained constant in the last few years - 85 percent of the exhibitors in the 2012 edition were repeat exhibitors.
Date: 23 - 27 April Venue: Inter Expo Center Location: Sofia, Bulgaria Expected Attendees: 23 - 26 April (Tuesday - Friday) 10:00 - 18.30 and 27 April (Saturday) 10:00 - 16:00 WEBSITE: www.technomebel.bg/en
56 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
SHOWTIME
TEKHNODREV Far East 2013
gulfBID
TEKHNODREV Far East is a leading exhibition focusing
gulfBID 2013 is the seventh edition of the annual
on technology, machinery, equipment and tools for
exhibition for the construction industry in the
forestry, logging, woodworking and furniture industry.
Northern Gulf. The event is home to nearly 200
More than 80 participating companies from Russia,
exhibitors representing the core sector of the
Austria, France, Japan, Germany, Italy, China, Finland
construction industry, allowing the specification
and other countries in addition to over 7,500 visitors
of a huge range of products and services,
are expected to participate at the 2013 edition. The
including building and construction, water
exhibition is also a part of the TEKHNODREV All-
technology and environment, heating, ventilation
Russian Network of Woodworking Exhibitions, which
and air conditioning, cleaning and maintenance,
gives manufacturers and suppliers of equipment for
glass and metal, bathrooms and ceramics,
timber companies the opportunity to demonstrate
marble and machinery, and construction plant,
their goods in all regions of the country.
machinery and vehicles.
As a leading event, the exhibition will allow
For exhibitors, the show represents an
exhibitors to demonstrate state-of-the-art examples
opportunity to talk to clients en masse, raise
of equipment for logging, woodworking and furniture
their presence in the marketplace, showcase
industry; create a business platform for manufacturers
products and services, and establish their brand.
and suppliers of equipment, for experts and investors;
Strategically located in Bahrain, the show will
and extend inter-sectoral and inter-regional relations,
provide exhibitors with unique access not only to
whilst promoting related technologies, equipment
the rapidly growing building and interiors sectors
and timber processing tools in regional markets.
within Bahrain but also to Kuwait, Qatar and
The exhibition will also play host to the ‘Far Eastern
Saudi Arabian markets, all of which are easily
Forestry Congress’ - a highly topical program of
accessible by road.
presentations, workshops and displays.
Date: 24 - 27 April Venue: V.I. Lenin Stadium Location: Khabarovsk, Russia Expected Attendees: 7,500+ WEBSITE: www.old.restec.ru/exhibitions/featured/tekhnodrevdv/index.en.html
Date: 7 - 9 May Venue: Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Center Location: Manama, Bahrain Expected Attendees: 6,000+ WEBSITE: www.gulfbidexhibition.com
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 57
SHOWTIME
LIGNA HANNOVER
The show provides a unique and dynamic platform for buyers and suppliers to make contacts and drive future developments in Qatar’s multi-billion construction sector. In
Every two years, about 90,000 wood specialists from around
addition, exhibitors benefit from massive exposure to premier
the world attend LIGNA HANNOVER in Hannover, Germany
regional agents, dealers, buyers and distributors. To maximize
to witness the latest from the world’s leading suppliers of
the number of exhibitors, trade buyers, business developments
plant, machinery and equipment for the forest and timber
and opportunities, Project Qatar 2013 will be held concurrently
industries. Regarded by most as the ultimate benchmark
with Energy Qatar 2013 (the first Energy and Electricity show
event - the fair where new products are launched and new
for Qatar); Qatar Stone Tech 2013; and Heavy Max 2013.
trends are set - a similarly strong turnout is expected this year, despite the difficult economic conditions affecting some regions. Leading companies from industry and the skilled trades are fully represented among the exhibitors given that no other trade fair manages to convey the process chain of wood machining and processing as fully as LIGNA. According to the organizers, LIGNA 2013 will put the
Date: 6 - 9 May Venue: Doha Exhibition Center Location: Doha, Qatar TIMINGS: 16:00 - 22:00 expected attendees: 45,000+ Website: www.projectqatar.com
spotlight on key global megatrends such as sustainable, intelligent production; highly customizable manufacturing systems; and flexibility-enhancing solutions for all levels of industrial operations. Key innovation drivers such as surface technology, lightweight construction, wood-based bioenergy systems and window production technology will also be presented as standalone display categories in addition to a range of exhibits that is unmatched in its depth and diversity. Other hotly anticipated displays include the latest integrated control systems and multi-functional production technologies and the broad range of woodworking exhibits that comprise the ‘Handwerk, Holz & mehr’ showcase.
Date: 6 - 10 May Venue: Hannover Exhibition Center Location: Hannover, Germany TIMINGS: 09:00 - 18:00 expected attendees: 90,000+ website: www.ligna.de/homepage_e
Wood Guangzhou 2013 The second Guangzhou International Wood & Wood Products Trade Show (Wood Guangzhou 2013) will be held at the China Import & Export Fair (Pazhou Complex) from May 9-11, 2013. Following the success of the first edition, which was held in March 2012 and attracted more than 118 exhibitors and over 8,000 trade visitors, the organizers are confident of exceeding these figures in 2013. Given that the Guangzhou International Wooden House & Wooden Structure Fair and the Guangzhou International Wood Plastic Composites fair are being concurrently held with Wood Guangzhou, the event serves as the perfect platform to tap into the Chinese market. The exhibition will showcase wood products, logs, processed wood, panels & boards and related materials. Not only is China one of the world’s largest producers of wood
Project Qatar
furniture and wood flooring but it also has a tremendous domestic demand for wood. As such, the exhibition will aim to bring together wood dealers, furniture manufacturers, window and door manufacturers, decoration and designing
Project Qatar celebrates its tenth anniversary as a leading
companies, and other professional buyers with a view
international trade construction, building, environmental
to encourage trade and further develop the wood and
technology and materials exhibition. The event attracts key
woodworking industry in China.
buyers and industry leaders looking for the most up-to-date technology and state-of-the art equipment available on the market. Firmly established as Qatar’s most important exhibition for highlighting the latest products and services needed for the fast growing construction sector in the country, the show has become a must-attend event for regional and international industry professionals.
58 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
Date: 9 - 11 May Venue: China Import and Export Fair Complex (Pazhou Complex) Location: Guangzhou, China expected attendees: 8,000+ Website: www.muyezhan.com/index_e.asp
SHOWTIME
International surfaces and flooring brands confirm their participation at INDEX 2013
INDEX International Design Exhibition is shaping up for another
existing wood flooring collections by Kährs of Sweden, of which
successful edition. The Middle East and North Africa’s largest
they are the exclusive representative in the UAE and Middle
and longest established interiors and design exhibition - now
East. Sarah van der Loo, Marketing Coordinator from Nordic
in its 23rd edition - will take place at the Dubai World Trade
Homeworx comments: “Nordic Homeworx has been exhibiting
Center from Monday 20th till Thursday 23rd of May 2013.
at INDEX for several consecutive years. We were very happy
Architects, interior designers, contractor specifiers, industry
last year when this sector was launched at INDEX. We look
professionals and consumers will be able to see innovative
forward to exhibiting new Kährs wood flooring in the Surfaces
surface materials, decorative paints, flooring, parquet, marble
& Finishes Sector at INDEX 2013.”
& ceramics, metal and glass finishes and natural stone finishes products in the upcoming INDEX 2013. INDEX will cover under one roof all interior and exterior
Wickham Hardwood flooring, another international leader in wood flooring is exhibiting at INDEX for the second time with the larger stand. With products ranging from
designs sectors and, occupying 20,000 sqm of exhibition space,
unfinished floorboards to varnished hardwood flooring, the
will be organized in seven product-specific show sections.
company has come to play a major role in today’s market
INDEX Surface & Finishes is one of the popular sectors of
and has earned worldwide recognition of its products.
INDEX. After a successful launch in 2012, INDEX Surfaces
Wickham Middle East Flooring will be showcasing its
and Finishes 2013 is proud to announce that leading surfaces
popular collections: Domestic floor collection, Cottage
and finishes brands have confirmed their participation.
collection, Exotic home collection and Mountain home hand
The confirmed exhibitors include: Bluewater Wood Alliance
scraped collection.
Inc, Unicasa Industria de moveis S/A, Politorno Moveis Ltd,
Coating and decorative flooring is another emerging trend in
Exclusive Acrylic Middle East Industries LLC, Apex Gulf
the surfaces and finishes sector. Al Zubaidi Modern Decorative
Enterprises LLC, Artificier Collection, Sanco-Katsieris Bros SA,
Systems will be showcasing the latest finishes from Armour
Galaxy Trading, Finmat Trading Co LLC, Anpa srl, Better World
coat and a new product from France - Senideco. Al Zubaidi
FZE, Preferred Specialist Services LLC, Nordic Homeworx LLC,
Modern Decorative Systems comments on this year’s INDEX:
MIR di Zanin, Rolando e C., Johnson Tiles, Centro Grafico DG -
“At INDEX you will find everything you need for surface design,
DG Mosaic, Berry Floor - Al Ameemi International LLC, Avant
new creativity and modern interior decoration. INDEX is the
Enterprises L.L.C., Al Zubaidi Modern Decorative Systems LLC,
one stop-shop for these products.”
Altaeco Srl, Al Fajer Establishment, Alawali Floorings, Omni Decor, Timberwolf, and Muraspec - Omnova. Johnson Tiles, UK’s leading manufacturer and importer of
Another leader in the modern decorative flooring is Preferred Specialist, which will be exhibiting at INDEX for the first time. Preferred has been offering new and exciting
ceramic wall and floor tiles, will be at the show for the 3rd
alternatives to conventional flooring and surfaces. The
consecutive year. Commenting on the company’s participation,
company will be showcasing three key products at INDEX this
Darren Clanford, Johnson Tiles Creative Director, said: “INDEX
year: Decorative Resins, Crystal Inlay and Polished Concrete.
always gets a big tick on our exhibition calendar, it’s a great opportunity for us to truly demonstrate our creative capabilities and forward-thinking approach to modern surface design. It gives us the perfect platform to reveal our latest products and up-coming trends in a stimulating and exciting environment.”
Date: 20 - 23 May Venue: Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Center Location: Dubai, UAE website: www.indexexhibition.com
Nordic Homeworx LLC will be showcasing their new and
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 59
SHOWTIME INTERVIEW
interzum 2013 to debut new, futureoriented structure
I
Image © INTERZUM
n 2013, the world’s biggest trade
exhibitors will be coming from outside
brand awareness. But a leading player
fair for suppliers to the furniture
Germany. The biggest contingent will be
can often also be a smaller company
industry and interior finishing will
from Italy, closely followed by Turkey
that makes its mark with a high degree
be continuing on its successful course.
and Spain. There will be joint booths
of innovativeness or simply with a
interzum will have a new, forward-
from Brazil, Italy, Romania, Turkey, the
good instinct for trends and design.
looking structure: instead of being
USA and Vietnam. All in all, 155,000
interzum is unrivalled in terms of
divided into seven segments as in
sqm of hall space has been allocated
the number of market- and trend-
the past, the world’s leading fair will
to interzum 2013, a slight increase as
leading companies who present their
focus on just three areas: ‘Materials
compared to the previous event.
innovations for furniture production
& Nature’, ‘Function & Components’ and ‘Textile & Machinery’ in order to provide a clearer structure for visitors and exhibitors alike. Timber
03. What are the main objectives for this year’s edition?
and interior finishing at the event. That makes interzum the top venue for the sector’s decision-makers and the leading international business and communication platform for the
Design & Technology talks to Markus Majerus, Communications Manager for
The attractiveness of what’s on offer
entire furniture suppliers industry. In a
Koelnmesse GmbH, ahead of the show.
is crucial for the quality of any event
nutshell, interzum is the leading trade
and a decisive factor when it comes to
show for the global industry. We want
drawing a large numbers of visitors.
to consolidate and enlarge on that
Trade shows are particularly successful
position.
01. In retrospect, what were the major achievements of the 2011 edition of interzum?
when they succeed in depicting and reflecting markets and developments
04. Are there any events such as awards, seminars and workshops at this year’s edition?
With 52,400 trade visitors from 147
with the greatest possible clarity.
countries, interzum - the leading
Companies who are leading players in
international fair for suppliers to
their markets also play a particularly
the furniture industry - grew by 13
important role in that. This leading
percent as compared to the previous
function is by no means restricted
Besides offering a spectrum of exhibits
event in 2009. The internationality of
to the size of the company; it also
that is undoubtedly unique anywhere
the visitors, which has traditionally
entails leadership in relation to a
in the world, a top trade show must
always been high anyway, also showed
certain niche or trend, in terms of
also create added value for visitors
a significant increase in 2011, growing
emotional aspects or a high level of
and exhibitors, i.e. for the entire
by no less than 24 percent. With the last edition of interzum, Koelnmesse thus very clearly underscored its position as a beacon for the furniture industry and created the precedents for a promising future; now, two years later, those precedents give us a very good basis to build on.
02. How will this year’s event be positioned? At this point we can already say that 1,480 exhibitors from around 60 countries will be showcasing their new products at the next interzum - that’s about 50 companies more than in 2011. Approximately 70 percent of the
60 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
Image © INTERZUM
SHOWTIME INTERVIEW
sector. One way to do this is to take the bigger picture into account and thus generate fresh impetus. This is why we are always injecting new topics into the interzum mix - with our three piazzas, for instance - and are particularly keen to enhance the event’s appeal for architects and designers with formats like ‘innovation of interior’. Within the halls, three central piazzas will be providing further information: the piazza in Hall 6, i.e. in the Materials & Nature segment, will be dedicated to the latest trends and product developments in the fields of decorative finishes, wood-based materials, veneers and Image © INTERZUM
solid wood. In Hall 4.2, interzum will again be underscoring its creative potential and showing architects,
& Nature’ segment, anybody who’s
designers and developers new
anybody in the finishes sector will be
applications in the special innovation
represented. In this segment too, we’ll
of interior exhibition. In Hall 10
be welcoming a few new customers,
(Textile & Machinery), there will be a
following Egger’s return to interzum in
large demonstration area presenting
2011 after an absence of 18 years. All
the production of leather covers for
the printers will be there too. We’ve also had a first-time registration from
car seat modules. This involves setting Image © INTERZUM
up a realistic representation of a
the Kronoswiss Group, which will be represented in its entirety at this year’s
textile production line especially for the exhibition. Nothing like this has
materials, design and technologies at
event for the first time. In addition,
ever been done at interzum before.
two different fairs. What’s new this
we’ve also been able to attract new
In addition to all that, the seventh
year is that interzum will be held from
exhibitors from the veneers sector,
edition of the competition for the
13th to 16th May and therefore - in
which has become increasingly difficult
‘interzum award: intelligent material
contrast to previous years - take place
in recent years: Fritz Kohl will for
& design’ will be demonstrating the
after LIGNA.
instance be taking part again after
significance of the suppliers industry when it comes to the development of contemporary design. The award is presented to innovative products that combine above-average functionality with premium quality.
05. How does interzum aim to be different from other trade fairs?
06. How many visitors and exhibitors are likely to be there at the fair this year? What percentage of them are repeat exhibitors and how many of them are new?
many years’ absence. In the textile segment we’ll be hosting a new event: the ‘Textile Production Line’.
07. What - in your opinion - are the major trends for the timber industry at the moment?
We’re expecting 1,480 exhibitors,
One megatrend that is continuing to
which would be about 50 more than
conquer the interior world is nature
in 2011. That’s how it looks on the
- one of the key themes right now.
In Germany, we’ve adopted a
exhibitors’ side right now - which is
This passion for all things ‘green’ is
different path as compared to the
better than at the same point two
being reflected not only in decorations
rest of the world - I don’t know
years ago. On the visitors’ side, around
and accessories but in the choice of
of any other region in the world
53,000 visitors from 147 countries
the materials used for the furniture
that does things in a similar way.
attended interzum in 2011 - and more
as well. Due to this strong demand,
Normally, trade shows for suppliers
than 60 percent of them journeyed
manufacturers are very definitely
to the furniture industry and fairs
to Cologne from other countries. I am
focusing on the emotions associated
for wood processing machinery take
certain we will equal that figure again
with the phenomenon. Natural,
place at one and the same event. In
this year - in fact, I’m confident we will
untreated, authentic, honest - those are
Germany, the separation of the two
surpass it.
the buzzwords right now. And by the
topics works very well - certainly also
As for the second part of your
way: one-offs from nature are always
because we collaborate very closely
question, we recently restructured the
unique and individual. No oak table
with our colleagues who organize
segments. On the fittings side, i.e. in
is exactly like another. Its owner has
the LIGNA trade fair. Overseas
the ‘Function & Components’ segment,
something exceptional and special that
visitors are particularly keen to
we were already able to welcome all
comes with a genuine growth story –
seize the opportunity of getting a
the major players to Cologne back in
and not a synthetic, mass-produced
comprehensive overview of what
2011, and they will now be joined
industrial product. The timber industry
the market has to offer in terms of
by Salice as well. In the ‘Materials
will have to adapt to that.
April 2013 | www.timberdesignandtechnology.com 61
SHOWTIME
EXPO Calendar INDEX 2013
Dubai WoodShow
gulfBID
9th - 11th April Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Center Dubai, UAE
7th - 9th May Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Center Manama, Bahrain
20th - 23rd May Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Center Dubai, UAE
www.dubaiwoodshow.com
www.gulfbidexhibition.com
www.indexexhibition.com
Forst Live 2013
GreenBuild Expo
12th - 14th April Exhibition Center Offenburg Offenburg, Germany
8th - 9th May Manchester Central Manchester, United Kingdom
Woodprocessing Exhibition
www.forst-live.de
www.greenbuildexpo.co.uk
FOREST AND WOOD 2013
Wood Guangzhou 2013
12th - 14th April Prince George Civic Center Prince George, Canada
9th - 11th May China Import and Export Fair Complex (Pazhou Complex) Guangzhou, China
Lesdrevtekh
www.muyezhan.com/index_e.asp
www.belexpo.by
21st - 24th May Palace of Sports Lviv, Ukraine
http://galexpo.com.ua/en/exhibition-2013/17.html
www.expofor.ca DreMA 16th - 19th April Polznan International Fairground Polznan, Poland
www.drema.pl WIC Annual Woodworking Industry Conference 23rd - 26th April Marriott Phoenix Tempe Tempe, Arizona - USA
www.wmma.org/woodworking-shows/ woodworking-industry-conference.cfm TECHNOMEBEL 23rd - 27th April Inter Expo Center Sofia, Bulgaria
www.technomebel.bg/en TEKHNODREV Far East 2013 23rd - 27th April Inter Expo Center Sofia, Bulgaria
www.technomebel.bg/en TEKHNODREV Far East 2013 24th - 27th April V.I. Lenin Stadium Khabarovsk, Russia
http://old.restec.ru/exhibitions/featured/ tekhnodrev-dv/index.en.html Northeastern Forest Products Equipment Expo 3rd - 4th May Erie County Fairgrounds Hamburg - New York, United States
www.northernlogger.com Project Qatar 6th - 9th May Doha Exhibition Center Doha, Qatar
www.projectqatar.com LIGNA HANNOVER 6th - 10th May Hannover Exhibition Center Hannover, Germany
www.ligna.de/homepage_e
62 www.timberdesignandtechnology.com | April 2013
interzum 2013 13th - 16th May Cologne Exhibition Center Cologne, Germany
www.interzum.com/en Euroexpofurniture 2013 13th - 16th May V.V.C Moscow, Russia
www.eem.ru/?lang=en-GB
22nd - 24th May Minsk Expo Minsk, Belarus
ElmiaWood 5th - 8th June Bratteborg’s Estate Jonkoping, Sweden
www.elmia.se/en/ Asturforesta 20th - 22nd June Armayán Mountain Tineo, Spain
www.asturforesta.com/en
PASSION FOR HARDWOOD
i
a e Dub h t n us o Meet
ABALON HARDWOOD Hessen GmbH www.abalon-hardwood.com In the GCC we are partnering with:
Please contact Benoit Moreau for all inquiries you may have: +973-39.71.06.30, Benoit.Moreau@interholco.ch
l , Hal 1 O Booth
8
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