Investments in new machines and software — and in the employees who use them — are helping to open the doors to new product developments and market opportunities in both the solid wood and panel processing arenas.

Kawartha Cabinets, Peterborough, ON — Enhancing its machining capabilities, including the purchase of a Holz-Her edgebander, edge sander and the rental of a Thermwood CNC router from a neighboring business, has helped this custom cabinetry and millwork manufacturer to improve its production process and turnaround, and achieve a sales growth of 41.4% in 2010.

According to Mike Mills, owner, the company’s success also is due in large part to the workforce. “All employees share their knowledge and expertise with each other,” he says.  “Everyone knows their strengths and weaknesses, and we always teach and learn from each other to grow better as a company, rather than individually.”

TECH PROFILES

Great Lake Woods Inc., Holland, MI
New capabilities, including textured moulding, have helped the moulding/millwork/components company grow 26.5%, says Kate Malmstadt, marketing manager.

JB Cutting Inc., Mt. Clemens, MI
Increased productivity and service are behind the 3-D laminate component manufacturer’s 25% growth. “We plan to continue to improve our efficiency and keep costs low,” says Nathan Klomp, sales and marketing manager.

Western Mill Fabricators Inc., Placentia, CA
Owner/President Kimball Boyack says the commercial seating and decor firm continues to invest in new technology, including an SCM edgebander, to help grow sales.

Femrite Enterprises, Dawson, MN
Owner Loren Femrite attributes the moulding company’s 16.9% growth to quality control and an investment in machinery, including material handling equipment.  

Buhler Furniture, Winnipeg, MB
New product development and increased capabilities, helped the curio cabinets and furniture maker grow sales 20% in 2010, says Eugene Garcia, supervisor.