OTTAWA, Ontario — The Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association launched the CKCA Advanced Manufacturing Peer Group.

The group is tasked with harnessing advanced manufacturing technologies to address business challenges including low-cost imports, demographic changes, labor shortages, and the rising costs of operations in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

The CKCA initiative is a model approach for collaboration and innovation in the industry, designed to empower Canadian manufacturers with their technological evolution. By pooling resources and knowledge, members can collectively develop solutions tailored to industry needs.

The Peer Group will begin its work with a “CKCA BEST Audit” to identify business improvements by assessing operational efficiency, sustainability, and technological readiness. Another focus of the Peer Group is to find solutions to close the productivity gap with U.S. manufacturers, an issue that has increasing importance given the threat of U.S. tariffs. CKCA recognizes that U.S. factories often leverage more advanced automation and processes, resulting in a higher output at lower costs. The Peer Group will equip Canadian manufacturers with the tools to bridge this gap, securing their position in domestic and international markets.

Luke Elias, vice-president of the CKCA Board of Directors, said, “In many ways the kitchen cabinet manufacturing industry in our country is at a crossroads and I am excited for the potential of the CKCA Peer Group to take great strides forward for the Canadian industry. By addressing challenges like labor shortages and increased operations costs, the peer group will develop practical, easily adaptable real solutions to increase productivity, positioning our member manufacturers for a resilient and innovative future,”

“CKCA’s initiative empowers manufacturers and is a critical step for the kitchen cabinet industry toward sustainability, competitiveness and growth,” said Chris Leonard, chair of the CKCA Advanced Manufacturing Peer Group. “By collaborating, we’re building solutions that keep Canadian-made cabinets relevant and competitive. At the core, this is about safeguarding the future of our Canadian industry.”

Leonard added that Peer Group is open to all CKCA members meeting the participation criteria. By joining, members gain access to cutting-edge technologies, shared resources, and industry-leading expertise.

For specific questions on possible membership, contact Leonard at [email protected].