Jequitiba is a popular choice for furniture and cabinets in South and Central America. The species is gaining ground in the United States. Sponsored by Columbia Forest Products

Doing their part to spur the economy, wood products companies continue to find innovative ways to remain competitive — and make a profit.

Home remodeling and economic recovery spur double digit net earnings increases and improved sales for first quarter 2012. Warm weather drives net earnings up 27.9% at Home Depot, 14.3 percent at Lowe's.

Lowe's sales jumped 13 percent, as the home improvement center did an about-face in its fourth quarter;

Molder and molding knife maker Williams & Hussey Machine Co., Inc. has redesigned www.williamsnhussey.com.

Within the next few weeks, the USDA is expected to publish the Hardwood Checkoff draft for 60-day comment, with an industry vote expected to take place by March 2012. While debate continues over the fee structure and other components of the initiative, I challenge anyone to say that the hard-hit hardwood industry doesn’t need a program of this type to provide funding for promotion, education and research efforts.

The wood products firm has added Marble Prime to the family of mouldings, edge-glued boards and jambs.

The woodworking products firm is one of 30 companies appearing at the Caribbean event.

A wood firm in Washington will distribute millwork products and moldings.

10/15/09