Got a Problem? Find a Solution at IWF 2000 By Rich Christianson

Can't find enough good help? Seeking ways to add more value (and profit) to your products? Searching for that machine or method that will give your firm a competitive edge?

Look no further than Atlanta and the International Woodworking Machinery & Furniture Supply Fair. With more than 1,250 companies set to display their products and services Aug. 24-27, IWF 2000 promises to have something for everybody - from the aspiring custom cabinet shop to the Steelcases, Merillats and Sauders of the world.

Problems, Solutions
The biggest downside to the nation's lowest unemployment levels in 30 years is the near impossibility of recruiting employees, a problem that is exacerbated if you happen to manufacture wood products. The push to eliminate or reduce labor-intensive processes is motivating woodworking companies both large and small to automate their processes wherever and whenever possible.

This said, it's no surprise that IWF's greatest lure to woodworkers is the hundreds of basic and advanced woodworking machines that will be under power at the Georgia World Congress Center and adjacent Georgia Dome. Nowhere else in the Western Hemisphere can woodworkers evaluate and compare as many models of equipment in the course of four days.

As a bonus, IWF is a major forum for the discussion of new concepts and developments in the industry - from powder coating MDF to the use of barcodes and workcells to streamline operations. Plus, woodworkers can examine hundreds of cutting tools and see demonstrations of dozens of design and manufacturing software packages.

Complementing the more than 700,000 net square feet of product displays are eight seminars that address important industry issues. For example, the Wood Component Manufacturers Assn. is cosponsoring a session on "How to Become an Employer of Choice." Wood & Wood Products, meanwhile, is cosponsoring a session with the equally timely title, "Profiting Through Automation."

Supply-Side Solutions
Potential alternatives to tackling labor and productivity problems can be found on the supply side of IWF. One of the more popular possibilities lies in purchasing components from companies that specialize in making everything from dimension stock and wood turnings through cabinet doors and drawer fronts of every imaginable style, finish and composition.

Easy-mounting hardware and long-life sandpaper represent two more examples of IWF products that can help reduce labor or downtime and increase productivity. Also on hand at IWF 2000 will be products that can enhance the beauty or functionality of products. Among them are decorative hardware, veneers and laminates; pull-outs for cabinets and case goods; and finishing materials.

Your Search Starts Here
More than half of this month's issue is dedicated to previewing IWF 2000. Our coverage begins here with an overview of the show and also includes a look at the seminars that will be held during the show, and a sneak peak at the 75 entries in this year's Challengers Awards competition.

The August issues of W&WP and sister publication, Custom Woodworking Business, will also include IWF 2000 preview coverage. In addition, W&WP and CWB will distribute Industrial Strength Woodworking, a special tabloid edition, at IWF.

Visit Our Booth, Win a T-Shirt
W&WP, CWB and Plastics Machining & Fabricating, the third publication of Vance Publishing Corp.'s Industrial Division, will display at 3E19. Stop by to pick up a free copy of any or all of the publications, including the ISW tabloid. Free subscriptions will also be offered.

Looking for another incentive to visit us at IWF? Stop by our booth and try your luck to win a free Industrial Strength Woodworking T-shirt. While you're at it, tell us what you like or don't like about our magazines, and most importantly how we can serve your needs better.

See you there.