Submissions are now being accepted for the 23rd annual WOOD 100, our exclusive program that details the manufacturing, marketing, business and other strategies that have helped wood products companies to not only survive, but thrive in these challenging economic times.

Last year, we shared how a number of companies saved money, improved turnaround time and quality through the use of lean manufacturing in their plants. Others grew business by diversifying into new niches, growing existing product lines and even marketing their production capabilities to competitors. And speaking of marketing, it was amazing to see how many woodworking companies looked beyond the traditional methods by using social media, apps — and even float building — to promote their company’s brand and skills.

Promotion opportunities abound for innovative woodworkers, including high-profile stagings such as Wellborn Cabinet's participation in numerous HGTV Dream Homes or the 2012 Vision House at Disney World’s Epcot Center, which features Armstrong’s green cabinetry and flooring products. (Armstrong's green and lean strategies was featured in the May issue of Wood & Wood Products.)

No matter whether your company manufactures kitchen cabinets, casegoods, residential furniture, contract furniture, wood components or architectural millwork  — you have a story to tell. Take advantage of this opportunity to promote your company’s products and abilities to customers, peers and analysts, by clicking on the WOOD 100 button at WoodworkingNetwork.com, or by clicking here and going directly to the WOOD 100 form.

The process is simple:
1.) Profile your business specialty and size.
2.) List your top challenges or opportunities.
3.) Tell the steps you've taken to succeed in market, management or production.

The companies selected for inclusion will be:
• Positioned as an industry leader to peers and analysts
• Honored at live events, including the Leadership Forum to be held at IWF 2012
• Profiled in the September issue of Wood & Wood Products magazine
• Featured on Woodworking Network.com

Each year since 1990, W&WP has paid tribute to the innovators of the secondary woodworking industry. Take advantage of the opportunity to be included in this select group.

The deadline to enter the 2012 WOOD 100 Report is July 2, 2012