China's imports of woodchips increased 340% between 2008 and 2010, and will more than double by 2015, says a new RISI study. Used for MDF and other panel manufacture, the massive increase in consumption could make the raw wood material pricier, but is bringing new suppliers onstream as well.

ITW has announced the integration of its Binks, DeVilbiss, Ransburg and BGK brands into one new operating unit, ITW Finishing Equipment Americas.

Two home wood interior remodeling trade groups - the National Closet Group and Association of Closet and Storage Professionals - said they would integrate operations.

WoodMac China and co-located events WoodBuild and FurniTek China 2011 closed last week in Shanghai with strong attendance reported.

HNI Corporation Announces Cancellation of Presentation at Raymond James Investors Conference

Thomas A. Johnson Furniture Co. owner Thomas Johnson says he has acquired a 131,000 square foot building in which he plans on opening a woodworking school, to teach cabinetry and furniture making, lumber processing, and architectural build-outs.

Custom cabinetry and millwork firm PJ Works, Inc. says it will relocate to a 163,000 square-foot facility that it has acquired in Shreveport, LA. The expansion is driven by a new product, Envirawood manufactured veneer.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with AOSOM LLC, has announced a voluntary recall of four models of the company's wooden playpens which are made from pine.

HOLLAND TOWNSHIP, MI -- Office furniture manufacturer Herman Miller Inc. plans to invest $2.3 million to convert its Greenhouse facility into a customer showroom for health care products.

Blum Inc. has announced plans to invest $18.5 million dollars over the next two years in equipment upgrades and facility expansion at its U.S. plant.