Introducing the HDUE™ holdown and SABR™ anchor bolt solution from Simpson Strong-Tie. Now you can give customers a stronger, faster way to secure shearwall end studs to concrete foundations in residential and light-frame commercial projects. Engineered for higher loads, our new HDUE is ideal for modern structures with more windows and smaller areas for shearwalls. As a direct replacement to our HDU holdown, the HDUE comes packaged with fasteners and washers. Builders attach it to the foundation with our new SABR anchor bolt. The SABR, a cast-in-place bolt also made for higher loads, replaces our SB and SSTB anchor bolts. With just one diameter for each length, the SABR is simpler to order and stock. The HDUE holdown and SABR anchor bolt are code listed, widely available in several sizes, and backed by our expert service and support.
To learn more, contact your representative or visit go.strongtie.com/hdue-sabr
Your Premier Supplier of Building Materials
2,600 dedicated employees, and one of the most extensive product offerings of value-added treated lumber, we can deliver in ways few others can.
151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. J3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Phone (714) 486-2735
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POSTMASTER Send address changes to The Merchant Magazine, 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. J3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. The Merchant Magazine (ISSN 7399723) (USPS 796-560) is published monthly at 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. J3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 by 526 Media Group, Inc. Periodicals Postage paid at Santa Ana, CA, and additional post offices. It is an independently-owned publication for the retail, wholesale and distribution levels of the lumber and building products markets in 13 western states. Copyright®2025 by 526 Media Group, Inc. Cover and entire contents are fully protected and must not be reproduced in any manner without written permission. All Rights Reserved. We reserve the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter, and assumes no liability for materials furnished to it. Opinions expressed are those of the authors or persons quoted and not necessarily those of 526 Media Group, Inc. Articles are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial or business management advice, nor an endorsement of any company, product, service or individual referenced.
Volume 104 • Number 12
Delivering the elements that elevate your business
Built on industry-leading delivery performance, Weyerhaeuser is the distribution partner you can count on to get you the best building materials available.
ROSEBURG LUMBER IS MADE IN THE USA.
Dillard, OR - Douglas-fir Studs
Weldon, NC - Southern Pine Dimensional Lumber
We’re proud to offer Made in the USA lumber: grown, manufactured, and shipped to you from right here in the USA. This means you get high-quality, dependable products sourced from sustainable forests with shorter lead times - because your work deserves nothing less.
WHAT’S YOUR DREAM?
------------ BY PATRICK ADAMS
RECENTLY, ON THE WAY to drop my daughter off at high school (which still feels impossible to say), we were listening to an interview with a young country singer. She talked about how, since she was eight years old, she had dreamed—relentlessly—of singing on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry. And now, she finally had.
I glanced at my daughter and asked, “Do you have a dream?”
She thought for a second. “What is a dream? Is it like a goal?”
I told her that in my opinion, a dream is much bigger than a goal. A dream is something so large it usually takes dozens—maybe hundreds—of goals to get there.
I should’ve seen it coming. She turned to me and asked, “Daddy… did you have a dream?”
To be honest, I don’t think I’ve spent a single minute of my adult life considering that question. Yet the second she asked it, the answer hit me instantly. A flood of emotion washed over me. Nothing in a very long time has rattled me like that question.
“Yes, sweetheart,” I said quietly. “I did have a dream.”
As I’ve shared before, my childhood was far from ideal. We were poor. My parents carried demons that shaped far too much of our lives. I grew up in a rough area, in a time very different from today’s world of helicopter parents and protective laws. All I dreamed of back then was escaping that life. I wanted to stop feeling scared. I wanted a home filled with people I love, who love me back. I wanted stability, peace and the simple things most people take for granted. I wanted to break the cycle and someday give my own kids the kind of life I could only imagine.
But it wasn’t the memories or the emotions that hit me hardest—it was the realization that, without even recogniz-
ing it, I’ve spent my entire life pursuing that dream. And at some point, quietly, without announcement or celebration, I achieved it.
There was no single moment when it happened. No finish line. It didn’t look like a promotion, a bank balance, or a passport filled with stamps. It just… happened. Slowly. Silently. And I never realized it until that moment in the car.
Looking back, that dream has guided nearly every decision I’ve ever made. It’s why I’m driven. Why I fight for what’s right. Why I protect the people I love so fiercely. Why I refuse to compromise on right and wrong. Why I try to be kind and generous—because we rarely know what storms someone else is navigating.
My daughter was still waiting for my answer. I held back the emotion, steadied myself, and said, “Yes, sweetheart. I had a dream. And that dream was to have the life I have today—our life. You, your brother, your mother, our home, our laughter, our blessings, and all the love we share.”
She seemed satisfied, because her response—perfectly timed—was, “Oh! Can you turn this up? I love this song.”
As we enter this holiday season, I hope you take a moment to think about your childhood dream. I hope, like mine, it has quietly come true. And if it hasn’t yet, remember—it’s never too late.
It is my greatest honor to serve this incredible industry and each of you. Your kindness and support remind me every day that there are still so many good people in this crazy world. From all of us, may you have the happiest of holidays.
PATRICK S. ADAMS, Publisher/President padams@526mediagroup.com
REDWOOD
Like the foods we buy, when it comes to decking, we want natural and real. Redwood is always available in abundance of options. So stock the shelves! Unlike mass-produced and inferior products, Redwood is strong, reliable and possesses many qualities not found in artificial products. They maintain temperatures that are comfortable in all climates.
Redwood Empire stocks several grades and sizing options of Redwood.
SOFTWOOD LUMBER UPDATE TARIFFS, TURBULENCE AND NEW TRADE FLOWS
------------ BY GLEN O’KELLY & HÅKAN EKSTRÖM
GLOBAL SOFTWOOD lumber markets are entering a period of significant change. After years of weak demand and high volatility, the 2025–2030 outlook points to a gradual recovery—driven by economic improvement in Europe and China, supply constraints across North America, and new trade flows emerging from tariffs and policy shifts, according to the new report Softwood Lumber – Tariffs, Turbulence, and New Trade Flows.
Slow Growth, Major Shifts
Softwood lumber remains a $80 billion global industry, growing only 1.8% per year in nominal terms since 2000. Beneath this modest headline, demand and trade are transforming. Consumption has shifted toward Asia, while North America and Europe remain the backbone of global supply. Construction dominates in developed markets, while furniture and packaging are key in emerging economies. Per-capita use has plateaued at 0.2–0.4 m3 in mature markets but remains below 0.1 m3 in developing regions— leaving room for growth, particularly in mid-income Southeast Asia and MENA. Regional policies, tariffs and forest resource limits will shape how demand is met.
U.S.: Tightening Supply, Rising Prices
The U.S. accounts for 27% of global softwood lumber demand but only 20% of supply. After steady post-recession growth, U.S. consumption dipped in 2022, but is expected to rebound later this decade as housing starts recover. The recent implementation of new import tariffs will restrict supply and push lumber prices in the U.S. higher. While southern mills are expanding, growth is constrained by labor shortages and log costs in other regions of the country. Sawmill expansion in the South appears to be slowing in 2025–27. However, there could be significant expansion not yet announced due to higher lumber prices in the coming years. Imports will increasingly need to come from Europe toward the end of the five-year period.
Canada & Europe: Adjusting to Constraints
Canada’s lumber sector faces a structural downturn.
Higher U.S. duties (from 14% to 45% for most producers) and limited log supply in British Columbia will accelerate mill closures and shift investment toward the U.S. South.
Efforts to diversify exports to Asia and Europe are slow and costly due to distance and differing standards. Canada’s overall production will likely contract further. As B.C. sawmills become less competitive in the U.S., there are opportunities to expand domestic sales and production of value-added products through government incentives.
Europe, which accounts for one-third of global supply, is poised for modest growth as construction confidence improves. But production in Northern and Central Europe is near its sustainable ceiling, and beetle-related harvests in Central Europe are declining. Expansion will depend on Eastern Europe and the Baltics.
China & Beyond: A Gradual Rebound
China’s lumber demand, down 34% since 2017, is expected to recover modestly after 2027 as the property market stabilizes. Russia will remain its dominant supplier, with marginal increases from Canada. Demand in MENA and mid-income Asia (e.g., Vietnam, India) will also grow. Limited by local forest resources, they will predominantly rely on imports.
A Fragmented Global Market
Overall, global lumber demand is projected to grow 1.2% annually from 2024 to 2030, reaching 335 million m3. Seventy percent of this increase will come from the U.S., Europe and China. Meeting that demand will require roughly 22 million m3 of new supply—mostly from the U.S. South, Eastern Europe, and Russia’s Far East.
The decade ahead will be defined not by strong growth but by redistribution—as tariffs, trade barriers, and forest policy reshape traditional supply chains. The winners will be those who adapt fastest to this new geography of wood. MM
– Glen O’Kelly is CEO of O’Kelly Acumen, Stockholm, Sweden, and Håkan Ekström president of Global Wood Trends, Seattle, Wa. Their full report is available at www.okelly.se/shop/lumber2025.
KODIAK BUILDING Partners implemented a standardized set of metrics across its American Builders Supply Division to help management make sure benchmarks and targets were being met.
CULTURE, METRICS & MINDSET
BUILDING A CULTURE OF CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS
------------
BY LANCE GRIMM
IN TODAY’S COMPETITIVE building products marketplace, companies are under constant pressure to do more with less—delivering exceptional service, optimizing operations and preserving margins. While some leaders respond to these challenges with sweeping cost-cutting measures, a more sustainable strategy has emerged: embracing a continuous improvement (CI) mindset.
CI isn’t just a process; it’s a way of thinking. Rooted in manufacturing and quality control principles like Lean and Six Sigma, CI emphasizes incremental improvements across systems, processes and activities to achieve better outcomes over time. In the distribution world—where success often depends on efficiency, accuracy and customer experience—CI can be the difference between a company that merely survives and one that thrives.
Why Continuous Improvement Matters
Value creation is the end goal for any business, but how you get there matters. Traditional approaches to growth, such as cost-cutting after an acquisition, might deliver short-term gains but often erode culture and destabilize operations. Continuous improvement, on the other hand, promotes incremental, measurable changes that compound over time—building operational resilience, boosting margins and empowering employees.
Adopting a CI mindset means treating improvement as an ongoing strategic priority, not a one-off initiative. Each
improvement sparks curiosity for what comes next, creating a regenerative cycle of progress. For building products distributors, this approach can significantly improve metrics such as on-time and in-full (OTIF) rates, order accuracy and operational efficiency.
The ABS Example: Metrics as a Catalyst for Growth
One recent example from Kodiak Building Partners underscores the power of CI in action. At American Builders Supply (ABS), a standardized set of metrics was implemented across the company along with a daily management process to check and adjust as necessary to meet established targets. Teams used Pareto charts to identify the highest-impact issues behind missed targets and where to focus collaborative efforts to address them.
The results were significant: profitability improved substantially as the organization aligned around clear goals and used data to guide decisions. This structured approach to problem-solving didn’t just fix isolated issues—it created a foundation for ongoing improvement and margin growth. Now, these principles are being extended to Kodiak’s door shop companies, piloting a similar system to drive consistency and value across the network.
Keys to a Successful CI Initiative
Implementing CI effectively requires more than enthusiasm—it demands discipline and structure. Here are three critical components:
(1) Define the Problem, Identify the Systemic Root Cause
Start with clarity and inspiration. A vague problem statement leads to vague solutions and uninspired team members. Whether addressing production delays, inventory inaccuracies or order entry bottlenecks, take the time to diagnose the systemic root cause. It’s critical to engage the people who perform the work at the location where the work is done. For instance, a recent analysis revealed that inefficient equipment layout—not a labor shortage—was the culprit behind missed production deadlines. Correcting the layout generated annual savings of $180,000.
(2) Tailor the Tactics
There’s no one-size-fits-all fix. The people who do the work should be the ones solving the problem. Also, pilot potential solutions that address the systemic root cause before rolling them out broadly, and tailor strategies to the unique root causes of each business. For example, a company dealing with repetitive order entry errors on purchase orders might benefit from text recognition technology (also known as optical character recognition, or OCR) to automate order entry, dramatically reducing these errors and freeing employees to focus on higher-value tasks.
(3) Measure the Results
Continuous improvement projects don’t end at implementation. The intended results need to be validated against the metrics within the defined problem and then standardized to check and adjust hourly, daily, weekly and monthly until ready for the next improvement to keep raising the bar on performance. In distribution, metrics such as OTIF, cycle times and order accuracy provide a clear
lens into whether improvements are sticking, and where to check and adjust efforts.
Culture: The Real Differentiator
While process and data are essential, culture ultimately determines whether CI endures. Companies that build a culture of trust, curiosity and collaboration see the strongest results. When employees at every level, from executives to shop floor teams, feel empowered to problem-solve, CI becomes a shared mission rather than a topdown directive.
When building a CI culture, keep in mind data inspires more than mandates and data will set each of us free to innovate. Each person needs to be given the chance to understand the why, believe in the why, and become willing to support and engage in the why, paired with proof of its impact to accelerate adoption. Combine that with peerto-peer benchmarking and knowledge sharing, and CI becomes part of daily operations—transforming improvement from isolated projects into a continuous, company-wide practice. This is exactly what Kodiak’s Building Up Individuals for Locally Driven (BUILD) Excellence CI development program is all about—creating a united team throughout the company of deeply rooted and inspired problem-solvers. In building up these leaders to speak a common CI language, they bring focus to seeing opportunities for improvement through a collaborative lens in every area of the business.
The Bottom Line
Continuous improvement is more than a tool—it’s a mindset that transforms obstacles into opportunities for growth. For building products distributors navigating tight margins, labor shortages and evolving customer demands, CI offers a path to sustainable success. When done right, it’s not about cutting costs—it’s about creating value for employees, customers and stakeholders alike. MM
LANCE GRIMM
where he leads initiatives that strengthen processes, empower teams, and drive sustainable growth.
C&E LUMBER COMPANY
1 1/2” to 12” Diameter in Stock.
Lance Grimm is senior VP of continuous improvement at Kodiak Building Partners (kodiakbp.com),
TOOLS WITH JUICE THE LATEST TRENDS IN POWER TOOLS
IN A MARKET where innovation is powering forward at full speed, power tools retailers must stay ahead of a rapidly shifting landscape if they’re to capitalize on the next phase of growth. The power-tools sector is now being reshaped by the surge of lithium-ion batteries, cordless equipment, and collaborative platforms that allow an entire family of tools to use the same battery, voltage and charger.
With the professional and DIY segments converging, dealers should align their assortment, merchandising and sales strategies. BPD asked two experts at Milwaukee Tool—group manager of product marketing Zafir Farooque and senior product manager Bryan Bunner—to share their insight into the trends promising to deliver the biggest impact.
Better Batteries
Farooque: The biggest trend in battery advancements is the push for greater energy and power density. These innovations enable more runtime, increased power for demanding applications, and faster performance—all within the same or smaller battery sizes. One breakthrough is tabless lithium-ion cell technology, recently adopted by some power tool companies. An example of this innovation is Milwaukee Tool’s M18 RedLithium Forge XC8.0 and HD12.0 batteries, which leverage these advanced technologies to unlock enhanced power and runtime. As a result, cordless solutions are now capable of replacing—and even outperforming—corded, pneumatic, and gas-powered options.
The growing demand for batteries that deliver more power, longer runtime, and faster application speeds—without increasing size—drives this shift. Advances in energy density and power output have enabled smaller, lighter, yet more capable batteries. This progress allows cordless solutions to surpass traditional technologies, offering
professionals greater efficiency and performance while eliminating the constraints of cords, gas and air hoses.
More Cordless/Electric Tools
Bunner: As the construction industry continues to embrace cordless innovation, solutions like cordless nailers are going to continue leading the charge in redefining traditional processes and workflows. Their ability to combine advanced technology with practical benefits like portability, safety, versatility and ease of use makes them an ideal choice for professionals striving to meet the demands of the modern jobsite. Investing in manufacturers who are committed to innovation and reliability ensures users have a solution that supports both immediate needs and future growth. As technology continues to advance, cordless nailers are poised to become an indispensable asset across a wide range of industries.
Tool Platforms/Shared Batteries
Bunner: When evaluating a brand, it is important to look beyond individual solutions and consider their broader approach to innovation. Manufacturers that invest in disruptive technology and system-wide advancements demonstrate a strong commitment to their users and to insights grounded in real-world jobsite experience. This growth mindset often leads to advanced features, enhanced performance, and durable solutions capable of delivering a wide range of professional demands.
Additionally, a manufacturer’s ongoing dedication to innovation is a strong indicator of their long-term reliability and value. By consistently introducing new solutions and updating their existing lineup of products, these brands ensure their ecosystems stay ahead of the ever-changing demands of the industry, making them a dependable choice for professional users. MM
NEW BATTERY technology provides longer runtime and more power.
(Photos by Milwaukee Tool)
CORDLESS NAILERS have never been more portable or versatile.
MOST INNOVATIVE TOOLS & FASTENERS OF THE YEAR
THE 13TH ANNUAL Pro Tool Innovation Awards recognized the industry’s most innovative power tools, hand tools, fasteners and accessories. This year’s awards proved that manufacturers are charging full speed ahead, inventing bold new categories that stretch the boundaries of software, tech, and battery-powered solutions. The winners included:
Accessories & Fasteners
Circular Saw Blades: CMT 7-1/4" Zero Gravity Fiber Cement Blade
Reciprocating Saw Blades: Milwaukee AX w/NITRUS Carbide Teeth SAWZALL Blade for Wood with Nails
Table Saw Blades: CMT 8" x 24T Locked Precision Dado
Metal Drill Bits: Drill America GSC Series Gold Stepped Point Cobalt Drill Bits
Wood Drill Bits: Fisch FSA-367208 16-piece Black Shark Forstner Bit Set
Drill Guides: Fisch Tools Heavy Duty Tilting Drill Guide
HONORED as the year’s best wood screw, SPAX PowerTrim finishing trim screws deliver clean finishes, reliable performance, and the ability to disassemble without damaging the substrate.
Hardware–Commercial Doors: Hampton Products All-inOne Closer with FlexPlate MM
Holiday Greetings from Parr on our 49th Christmas
David Aguilar
Antonio Avina
Paul Blevins
Edward Butz
Jose Chicas
Rosario Chicas
Dominic Cosolo
Kasia Cross
Karen Currie
Steve Daugherty
Nick Ferguson
Martin Gallicia
Javier Garcia
Ricardo Garcia
Fidenceo Gomez
Hector Gonzalez
Larry Greene
Chris Hexberg
Melissa Jaime
Pedro Martinez
Joe McCarron
Reynaldo Merlan
Keith Neblett
Rafael Pantoja
George Parden
Timoteo Paredes
Michael Parrella
Peter Parrella
Celeste Peery
Kurt Peterson
Eduardo Pierre
Janet Pimentel
Nestor Pimentel
Jonah Piscopo
Alex Romero
Kelly Ross
Angela Sorenson
John Tirre
Antonio Vargas
Enrique Vargas
Christopher Velasco
Oscar Villegas
Pamela Winters
SELLING IN A DOWN MARKET
DOWN MARKETS can be difficult to sell in. Let’s call them contracting markets, because that’s what markets do; they expand and contract. We are in a contracting market right now. What is the solution? Get back to the basics:
Cast a wider net. If we are to grow our business in contracting markets, we will have to call more customers, not just the same customers more often. Many of us who have established connections haven’t prospected in a while. This won’t play in a contracting market. The good news is we are going to be better prospectors than we think we are. We have experience. We must use it. An experienced seller will have a much better chance to break into accounts and break into them quicker than a rookie salesperson. Prospect, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the results.
Go to customer need. As salespeople, we need to get off the “Wow, this is a terrible market” conversations and start talking about customer need. So many sellers join in the negative conversations started by customers. Don’t be one of them. Negative, down market conversations do not lead to sales. Get off the negative and talk about customer need. We will have to dig. If we find out that the person we are talking to doesn’t have an immediate need, let’s find out when they will have a need, end the conversation, and move on.
Start positive. This may seem very simple, but is often overlooked by salespeople. We need to go into conversations with a positive first sentence. “John, I’ve got something that I know will make you money.” “Judy, I’ve got
------------ BY JAMES OLSEN
exactly what you’ve been looking for.” Even with negative customers, we have control of our first sentence; we need to make it a positive one.
Treat contracting markets as opportunities. “Yes, some people have lost faith in this market. Isn’t it great, Mr. Customer? This is a great opportunity for us to make great deals. Speaking of great deals...”
Pick something and promote it. Going to customers in any market and asking them, “Do you need anything?” is the worst salesperson’s opening of all time. The “What are you needing?” opening is even worse in down markets. We must promote something to our customers. Even if customers deny our initial promotion, they will open up to us, and tell us what they do need.
Push for volume. When we reach agreement with customers on a price that works, we must push for volume. Tying customers down to a price can be difficult. In contracting markets it can seem impossible, so when we do get our customers to agree on a price, we must push for one more, two more or a contract at the given price. The rookie mistake is to be overly thankful or satisfied with the single order. The professional seller pushes for volume on any agreement.
Take all offers. When markets are good we may fight for a better price. This is good salesmanship. When markets are contracting, we must take the offers we get and work them to death. When we can’t meet the terms of our customers’ offers, it is imperative that we come back to our customers talking about the positives. Three mistakes
made by sellers when coming back on an offer to a customer whose specifications haven’t been met:
(1) Starting with the negative. “Well, John, we couldn’t get the price done ...” It doesn’t matter what we say next. We’ve started negative and have given our customer permission not to buy. Instead of starting negative, let’s start positive: “John, great news, we got the tally you wanted, the shipment you wanted and we got very close to the price we are looking for…”
(2) Acting embarrassed. We are not embarrassed if the specifications aren’t met. We accentuate the positive and keep selling (with our heads high).
(3) Stop asking for offers. Many sellers will be embarrassed when they don’t meet their customers’ offers and will stop asking for offers. This is a mistake. Contracting markets call for offers. Keep asking for them and keep working them. Not all of them will work out, but some of them will.
Champion sellers will continue to sell in the face of negativity. The rest will let the market dictate their success. Which kind of seller are we? Contracting markets will tell us. MM
JAMES OLSEN
James Olsen is principal of Reality Sales Training, Portland, Or., and creator of SellingLumber.com. Call him at (503) 5443572 or email james@realitysalestraining.com.
AS 2025 COMES TO A CLOSE, WE WANT TO THANK OUR VALUED CUSTOMERS FOR YOUR CONTINUED TRUST AND PARTNERSHIP THROUGHOUT 2025. DESPITE FACING INDUSTRY CHALLENGES, YOUR SUPPORT HAS REMAINED THE FOUNDATION OF OUR SUCCESS.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO AN OPTIMISTIC 2026 AND ARE HERE TO SERVE YOUR NEEDS IN COMMODITY PLYWOOD, SIDING, SANDED PANELS, INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS, STUDS, CONCRETE FORMING, SIGN-MAKING PANELS, VENEER, AND BY-PRODUCTS
WISHING YOU A JOYFUL HOLIDAY SEASON AND A SUCCESSFUL NEW YEAR!
CHANGES COMING TO STATE PAID LEAVE AND TIME-OFF LAWS
------------ BY PAIGE McALLISTER
PAID TIME OFF is a common benefit offered by many companies to their employees as part of their total compensation package. While federal law does not require any such paid time off, many states have regulations that require employers to offer employees paid time off and/or paid leaves of absence in some form.
We know it can be challenging to track what is required, so we have compiled state sick and family/medical leave below. We are also including highlights of recent or upcoming changes within those categories to help you make necessary adjustments.
Sick time: While federal law does not mandate sick time, some states do require employers to provide certain employees paid sick time to use for covered reasons, such as for their own or a family member’s diagnosis or treatment of a health condition or preventative care. Those states include Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Washington, D.C. In addition, Illinois, Maine and Nevada offer similar time-off policies that employees can use for any purpose.
Recent or Upcoming Changes
Alaska: New Paid Sick Time (effective July 1, 2025) All employers must provide all employees (including fulltime, part-time, temporary, and seasonal) with paid sick time, accrued at a rate of one hour for every 30 hours worked. Sick time can be capped based on the company’s total number of employees. The cap for employers with 14 or fewer employees is 40 hours, and for those with 15 or more employees, the cap is 56 hours. Any unused sick time must carry over into the next benefit year with no cap or loss of benefit. Employees can use this sick time for covered reasons and cannot be required to provide documentation for absences shorter than three days.
Maine: Increases to Paid Time Amounts (effective Sept. 24, 2025) Currently, employees can accrue up to 40
hours of paid time off in a benefit year and can carry over up to 40 hours of unused paid time off into the following benefit year; however, employers can cap an employee’s total balance to only 40 hours. Under the new changes, employees will be able to accrue up to 40 hours on top of carrying over up to 40 hours, which means they could have a balance of up to 80 hours after two years of accrual with no use.
Missouri: Sick Leave Law Rescinded (effective Aug. 28, 2025) The new law, which went into effect May 1, 2025, was rescinded as of Aug. 28, 2025. Any sick time accrued during this period must be provided, but no additional time must be accrued or provided.
Nebraska: New Sick Leave Law (effective Oct. 1, 2025) Under the Nebraska Healthy Families and Workplace Act (HFWA) employers with 11 to 19 employees must provide up to 40 hours of sick time to all employees who work at least 80 hours for their company, and employers with 20 or more employees must provide up to 56 hours of paid sick time each year. (Employers with 10 or fewer employees are currently exempt from providing sick time.) Accrual starts after the employee completes 80 hours of employment. Employees must be allowed to carry over all unused sick time into the next benefit year.
Oregon: Sick Leave Expanded to Blood Donation (effective Jan. 1, 2026) Employees can use paid leave for time off to donate blood.
Washington: Sick Leave Reasons for Use Expanded (effective July 27, 2025) Employees can use mandated sick leave to prepare for or participate in any judicial or administrative immigration proceeding for the employee or their family member.
(Effective Jan. 1, 2026) Employees can use available paid sick time for time taken due to them or a family member being a victim of a hate crime.
Medical or family leave: Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), federal law requires all employers with
50 or more employees to offer job- and benefit-protected leave to eligible employees for covered reasons. This time is not paid.
In addition to FMLA, several states mandate additional paid and/or unpaid leave for employees taking covered reasons. These states include Alabama, Alaska, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Washington, D.C.
Changes to Established Paid Leave Laws
Colorado: FAMLI Revisions (effective Jan. 1, 2026) Employees will be allowed to take an additional 12 weeks in addition to the 12 weeks of bonding time (so 24 weeks total of FAMLI) if their newborn child is in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Washington: Updates to PFML (effective Jan. 1, 2026) Several changes including:
• Job restoration protections for all employees in PFML who have worked 180 days are being phased in as follows:
o Current: Employers with 50 or more employees;
Q. We allow employees to decorate their workstations, cubicles, and desks with personal items to help them feel more comfortable at work. However, a couple of people take it to extremes, especially during the holidays. They bring in scented candles, which irritate a co-worker with allergies, and have so many knickknacks across their work surface that they don't have room to work. Is there anything we can do to get this under control without completely prohibiting personal decorations?
A . This sounds like a classic situation: there are always one or two employees who need to push the limits of any perk or flex. As with most of those, you can set limits for personal decorations.
Consider limiting the number of items a person can have in their workspace. You can also limit the size and type to whatever you think would allow them to express their personality while also giving them the room to work without being distracting to others. For example, allow one or two small pictures and/or any diplomas. If they want to decorate for the holidays, allow one or two small pieces of decor. When they want to bring something new in, they need to remove something else.
You should strictly prohibit any discriminatory items, harassment, or sexual harassment (no more swimsuit or fireman calendars), as well as anything that would create a health or safety risk for any or all employees. You can also prohibit other items that impact the environment, such as those with scents, that make noise, that have flashing lights, or that are just distracting.
You shouldn't blame another coworker's needs for your decision (i.e., “You can't bring in anything scented because of Susie’s allergies”) but instead make it a general statement about making the workplace more comfortable for all.
If employees still cannot control their workspace, you can start disciplinary action or institute a strict prohibition on everything.
o Jan. 1, 2026: Employers with 25 or more employees;
o Jan. 1, 2027: Employers with 15 or more employees; and
o Jan. 1, 2028: Employers with 8 or more employees.
• Employers can count time taken under FMLA toward the PFML job restoration protections if they notify the employee of this intention within five days of receiving a request, even if the employee is not receiving PFML benefits.
• Health benefits must be continued for the entirety of PFML regardless of any FMLA protection.
• Employees can take PFML in increments of at least four consecutive hours.
New or Upcoming Paid Leave Laws
Delaware: New Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) Payroll deductions started Jan. 1, 2025; claim submissions begin May 1, 2026.
Employees who work at least 60% of their time in Delaware and have worked for their employer for 12 months or longer and have at least 1,250 hours of employment in the past 12 months are eligible for up to 12 weeks a year of paid leave. Employees can use a combination of up to 12 weeks in a lump-sum or intermittently to care for a new child (the full 12 weeks) and up to six weeks for their own serious medical condition or injury, to care for a family member with a serious health condition, or to take time when a family member is overseas on a military deployment. Employees must file through the state’s LaborFirst Claimant Portal for paid benefits, but must also provide their employer with advanced notice when possible.
Maine: New Paid Family and Medical Leave Payroll deductions started Jan. 1, 2025; claim submissions begin Jan. 1, 2026.
Employees who work in or whose operations are based in Maine are eligible to up to 12 weeks a year of paid leave for family leave, medical leave, safe leave, or military family leave. Leave can be taken in a lump sum or intermittently with job protection if they were employed for more than 120 days prior to going on leave. Employees must file through the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Benefits Authority and provide their employer with advanced notice when possible.
Delayed Paid Leave Law
Maryland: Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program Payroll deductions delayed until Jan. 1, 2027; benefits delayed until Jan. 3, 2028.
When implemented, FAMLI will provide eligible employees with job protection and pay replacement of up to $1,000 per week for up to 12 weeks for covered leave. MM
at (877) 660-6400 or paige@theworkplaceadvisors.com.
Paige McAllister, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is vice president for compliance with The Workplace Advisors, Inc. Reach her
LEARNING IS THE ULTIMATE SUCCESS SKILL FOR OUR GENERATION
BY DAVE KAHLE
THE PACE OF CHANGE has increased, the growth in complexity has multiplied, and information has proliferated at an unprecedented pace. We are in extraordinary times. And unprecedented times call for unique and disciplined approaches if we are to survive and thrive.
The only sure way to deal with this pace of change is to nurture the skill of changing ourselves as rapidly as the world is changing around us. And that makes learning the ultimate success skill for our generation.
When most of us hear the word “learning,” we often associate it with formal school, or perhaps seminars and company-sponsored training programs. While these are all means of facilitating learning, they don’t capture the essence of what I’m talking about.
Instant Training for Selling Lumber
Product knowledge is the decisive advantage that turns a good salesperson into a trusted advisor. Among the best resources are:
1. NAWLA Academy. Online courses tailored to LBM wholesalers, covering product categories, best sales practices, negotiations, inventory management, marketplace trends, and more.
2. SellingLumber.com. Selling Lumber: The Virtual Sales Manager packages a full program of sales materials from James Olsen of Reality Sales Training, including 46 video lessons, quizzes, two downloadable ebooks, plus 200 short videos.
3. Dealer associations. All the state and regional dealer associations, including NRLA, BMSA, LAT, FBMA, CSA and BLD Connection, present periodic courses and webinars on sales, estimating and operations, and several host an online repository of past seminars.
4. NELMAtv. YouTube channel with a treasure trove of tips to help sell wood, including DIY videos, installation videos, trends pieces, and Maine Cabin Masters spots.
The kind of teaching/learning that is done in academia revolves around the transfer of information. The focus is on what you know, and the measurement is the score on an exam.
For adults, on the job, the focus is different. Here it is all about behavior change. I often tell salespeople in my seminars, “I don’t care what you know. You are not paid for what you know. You are paid for what you do.”
Learning is the ability, on the part of the individual, or the organization, to absorb new information about the world or oneself, and to change one’s behavior in positive ways in response to it. The key is behavior change. Learning without action is impotent. Knowledge that doesn’t result in changed action is of little value.
The key is behavior change. Learning without action is impotent. Knowledge that doesn’t result in changed action is of little value.
Let’s say, for example, that you invest in a new software program. You bring in the trainers and dedicate time to training your staff on the new program. The trainer gives a final exam, and everyone passes with 100%. The next day, no one uses the new software. They learned it intellectually, but never made the leap to changed behavior. For adults, on the job, knowledge that doesn’t result in changed action is worthless.
So, changed behavior is synonymous with learning. Whenever we speak of learning, we are talking about changing behavior.
This kind of learning, which I call Professional Learning, manifests itself as both a personal discipline, as well as a strategic piece of an organization’s culture.
Professional describes both the mind-set of the learners and the approach to the challenge. It’s like golf. Everyone can golf just like everyone can learn. Eventually the ball will go into the hole.
However, if you were going to make your living at golf, you would take on a whole different approach. You would seriously devote time, energy and money to the process
of improving your golf game. Rather than being an occasional event, golf would become a key focus in your life. You’d invest in the best clubs, hire the best coaches, practice regularly, and create the necessary disciplines and habits. Improving your golf game would be a necessary avenue to financial survival and success.
So, it is with learning in our frenetic world. Like golf, one can do it occasionally, or decide to be a professional. A professional learner understands that learning is the key to survival and success. He/she decides to make it a key focus in life, investing time, money and energy in the routines, habits and tools that will enable greater and more rapid learning.
A professional golfer engages with some aspect of the game every day. So, too, a professional learner is occupied with the attitudes, disciplines and tools of learning.
This kind of learning is intentional.
Intentional means that the learner, or the learning organization, decides to learn. It doesn’t happen by osmosis. Just like one doesn’t accidentally become a tournament level golfer, so too one doesn’t unconsciously stumble into becoming a professional learner. It is easy to understand the decision to learn a specific skill—say a new software program—as something that circumstances require occasionally. Occasional requirements to keep up with company dictates is not what I’m talking about.
That’s a watered-down version of the kind of commitment to which I’m referring. This kind of commitment is to a lifetime of continuous growth. The intentional learner understands that the need to continually learn is the ultimate skill for success and survival in our hyper-frenetic age. So, he/she makes an intentional commitment to the life-long pursuit of continuous growth, deciding to build in habits, attitudes and skills that will enable continuous and life-long behavior change.
This kind of learning is proactive. It’s one thing to react to an employer’s requirement to learn a new software program, and it’s
quite another to decide to develop the skill necessary for a potential promotion. The pro-active learner narrows in on a goal to be accomplished or an interest to be developed and takes the steps to acquire the skills and competencies necessary.
Just like professional golfers are continuously focusing on one aspect of the game at a time, so professional learners keep a list of things to be learned. The list is dynamic, continuously evolving. Items on the list come from multiple sources: introspection, goal setting, and the stimulant of regularly engaging with new information.
In a world that is changing as rapidly as ours is, the ability of every individual to learn and grow, at least
DAVE KAHLE
Dave Kahle is a leading sales authority, having presented in 47 states and 11 countries and written 12 books including How to Sell Anything to Anyone Anytime and The Good Book on Business. For more information, visit davekahle.com.
Patrick Lumber Company
Over 100 Years in Business
as rapidly as the world is changing around us, is the fundamental skill we must master if we are going to survive and prosper in these turbulent times. MM Est 1915
CHINOOK PARTNERS BUYING SOUTH COAST LUMBER/PACIFIC WOOD LAMINATES
Chinook Forest Partners, a forestland investment manager based in Grants Pass, Or., has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire South Coast Lumber Co., Brookings, Or., and affiliates, on behalf of long-term investors.
Operations include the South Coast Lumber sawmill, veneer mill, and planer mill; Pacific Wood Laminate plywood and LVL manufacturing facilities; reload facilities in Merlin, Or., and Samoa, Ca.; timberland owner/manager CLR Timber Holdings; and the SOCOMI brand (derived from South Coast Milling).
The acquisition encompasses 104,000 acres of premium coastal forest with modern manufacturing facilities. Chinook will manage these assets as a fully integrated platform within its portfolio of high-quality natural capital investments.
“This transition reflects our shared values and mutual respect,” said Mike Beckley, CEO and president of South Coast and a third-generation of the Fallert family. “Chinook understands what matters most: our people, our land, and our community. We are confident they will honor the legacy the Fallert family has built over four generations, while helping South Coast reach new levels of growth and opportunity.”
“South Coast is an exceptional organization—built over generations and guided by a team with deep expertise and vision,” said Chinook CEO Scott Marshall. “Our approach is rooted in long-term management: investing in people, operations, and communities to ensure these assets thrive for generations. This acquisition reinforces our commitment to sustainable forestry and positions Chinook as a differentiated partner to our investors.”
The transaction is expected to finalize before year-end 2025, pending customary closing conditions.
Founded in the early 1950s, South Coast Lumber Co. is a fourth-generation, family-owned forestry company with integrated operations that span from timberland management to finished wood products, boasting a workforce known for technical expertise and operational excellence. The company’s commitment to sustainable forestry practices, technological innovation, and deep community roots has established South Coast as both a cornerstone local employer and a respected Pacific Northwest timber industry participant.
Established in 2018, Chinook Forest Partners is a forestland investment manager providing clients with opportunities to invest in long-term, sustainability-managed real assets across North America.
SRS ADDS SPECIALTY WOOD OF COLORADO
Specialty Wood Products, Aurora, Co., was acquired by SRS Distribution Inc., a subsidiary of Home Depot.
Founded in 1989, SWP is a leading specialty dealer of premium decking, siding and heavy forest products, as well as other architectural-grade building materials. It has locations in Aurora and Kyle, Tx. SWP president Josh DeGuire will remain in charge of the business.
Founded in 2008 and headquartered in McKinney, Tx., SRS Distribution operates under a family of distinct local brands encompassing more than 1,210 locations across the U.S. and Canada.
BRIEFS
84 Lumber opened a new location in La Mirada, Ca.
Redlands Ace Hardware, Redlands, Ca., has been opened by Amy and Steve Larson, who also own Coachella Ace Hardware, Coachella, Ca.
Carnation Ace Hardware, Carnation, Wa., has closed after 56 years.
ABC Supply opened a new branch in Lancaster, Ca. (Rommell Blandino, branch mgr.). Grand opening celebration is set for Dec. 9.
J.M. Thomas Forest Products is expanding its distribution of KLAASWOOD modified wood siding, decking and trim from Denver, Co., to Utah, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Las Vegas, Nv.
Weyerhaeuser Distribution is now distributing New Castle Steel steel deck framing in California and Nevada.
BlueLinx has expanded its distribution of RDI Railing and MoistureShield decking from eight to 16 locations. MoistureShield is new to Portland, Or., while RDI coverage now includes Portland, Seattle and Spokane, Wa.
Valencia Lumber & Panel, Van Nuys, Ca., is now carrying GMX’s Maximo Wood thermally modified products.
Stone-Drew/Ashe & Jones, Seattle, Wa., has been appointed manufacturers rep in the Northwest for stone kitchen, bath and landscape products manufactured by Stone Forest, Santa Fe, N.M.
Hampton Lumber, Portland, Or., broke ground Nov. 5 on its $225-million, 375,000-sq. ft. lumber mill in Allendale County, S.C.
Cal-Ida Lumber mill in Auburn, Ca., was destroyed by a Nov. 17 blaze. An arson suspect has been identified. The massive facility was built in 1947 and was last operated—up until about two years ago—by California Hardwood Producers.
Benjamin Obdyke’s VaporDry SA roofing underlayment recently was approved for use as a component of a FORTIFIED Home-eligible roof system.
F.H. Stoltze Land & Lumber Co., Columbia Falls, Mt., was presented the annual Forest Products Award by Gov. Gianforte, recognizing its commitment to active forest management and the production of Montana wood products.
Re Reddwwood i ood is
thrives in some of the most productive timberlands in the world. Redwood is known for its timeless durability without the use of chemicals. Due to its flawless formation, there has never been a Redwood recall. There is a grade of Redwood for every application, every budget, and every customer.
“Growing beyond measure.”
Call or visit us today. Our family of Redwood timberland owners will continue to be your reputable and reliable source of Redwood.
According to the company, “While Vaagen Bros. has always been a significant partner in supplying and supporting Vaagen Timbers, the opportunity arose for a more vertically integrated operation to bring both entities under the same ownership to recognize significant synergies. The step strengthens its ability to serve customers across a wider range of high- value wood products, while maintaining its commitment to quality through teamwork. It also reinforces its dedication to healthy forests, sustainable management, and responsible use of every log it harvests.”
By bringing Vaagen Timbers into its operations, Vaagen Brothers can better align production, innovation, and resource utilization across the entire company. Going forward, Vaagen Timbers plans to steer its focus more to laminated timbers and beams, and downplay cross-laminated timber (CLT). It intends to create an efficient, profitable laminated timber business that will be reliable and steadfast throughout all market conditions.
Although the focus will be more heavily on laminated beams, the company will honor its commitments and contracts on mass timber and will be tendering mass timber jobs that best fit the facility, albeit a more specialized scope.
At this time, Vaagen Timbers will continue to exist as its own operation, and all business will still be conducted under the Vaagen Timbers name. For customers, suppliers, contractors, and other third parties, Vaagen anticipates minimal changes and will work to make any transitions as seamless as possible.
Vaagen Timbers was founded in 2017 by Russ Vaagen and constructed its mass timber plant in 2019.
RAYONIER MERGING WITH POTLATCHDELTIC
PotlatchDeltic, Spokane, Wa., and Rayonier, Wildlight, Fl., have entered into a definitive agreement to combine in an all-stock merger of equals, creating a leading domestic land resources owner and top-tier lumber manufacturer.
The combined company will operate under a new name, to be announced prior to closing.
Based on the companies’ most recent stock prices, the deal is worth roughly $8 billion, creating the second-largest publicly traded timber and wood products company in North America. Rayonier shareholders will own approximately 54% and PotlatchDeltic shareholders will own approximately 46% of the combined company.
Together, the combined company will have a diverse, productive timberland portfolio comprising 4.2 million acres, including 3.2 million acres in the U.S. South and 931,000 acres in the U.S. Northwest. In addition, it will operate seven wood products manufacturing facilities, including six lumber mills with total capacity of 1.2 billion bd. ft. and one industrial plywood mill.
The executive leadership team of the combined company will comprise roughly equal representation of top talent from both Rayonier and PotlatchDeltic. Upon closing of the transaction, Mark McHugh, president and CEO of Rayonier, will continue to serve as president and CEO as well as a member of the board of directors of the combined company. Wayne Wasechek, currently CFO of PotlatchDeltic, will serve as CFO of the combined company; Rhett Rogers, currently senior VP, portfolio management of Rayonier, will serve as executive VP, land resources; and Ashlee Cribb, currently VP, wood products of PotlatchDeltic, will serve as executive VP, wood products.
Eric Cremers, currently president and CEO of PotlatchDeltic, will be executive chair of the board of directors of the combined company for 24 months after closing. The board will be comprised of five existing directors from Rayonier (including McHugh) and five existing directors from PotlatchDeltic (including Cremers). Rayonier will designate the lead independent director. Corporate headquarters of the combined company will be located in Atlanta, Ga., with significant regional offices maintained in Spokane and Wildlight.
The transaction is expected to close in late first quarter or early second quarter of 2026.
FRANKLIN OPENS “APPETIZER”-SIZED STORE IN IDAHO FALLS
Franklin Building Supply, Boise, Id., opened its newest store in Idaho Falls, Id.—but it’s merely an “appetizer version,” CEO Levi Smith told East Idaho News.
A significantly larger building is anticipated to open in 2027. Details on its size, location or when construction will begin are still being finalized. Smith is hopeful that the company will complete the purchase of the new site by the end of the year.
“Opening this location now allows us to establish the team that is going to operate that larger location. They can get used to operating a smaller location so that (transition) to operating a larger location is a smaller step,” Smith said. “It also establishes a new rhythm and
VAAGEN TIMBERS, Colville, Wa., will increase its focus on laminated beams and timbers following the completion of its sale to Vaagen Bros.
pattern with customers.”
The company has been eyeing Idaho Falls since 2003. A post-Covid migration to the area finally convinced it that the time was right.
Founded in 1976, Franklin Building Supply operates 18 locations, including 11 lumberyards/design centers three truss plants, door and trim shop, exterior install division (siding, framing, doors and windows), interior install division (flooring, cabinet, countertops), and wholesale operation. Apart from a yard in Elko, Nv., the other operations are all are located in Idaho.
AMI EXPANDS ARIZONA WINDOW PLANT
Associated Materials Innovations has completed a major overhaul to its Yuma, Az., window manufacturing facility that includes a 100,000-sq. ft. expansion and four high-speed automated insulating glass lines with Super Spacer application.
These $30-million additions are part of AMI’s continuous improvement initiatives designed to simplify its glass packages, boost performance, increase production capacity and drive competitive value for its customers.
“The Yuma investments demonstrate our long-term commitment to growth and modernization,” said Frank Natoli, CEO of Associated Materials Innovations. “The separation of Associated Materials’ manufacturing and distribution businesses earlier this year gives us the focus to push AMI’s manufacturing forward and accelerate innovation for our customers.”
The new Super Spacer “Plus” glass package produced in Yuma will roll out across the region throughout the fall, strengthening AMI windows sold in the Western region under the Gentek U.S., Preservation, Alpine and private-label brands.
These updates mean that greater value comes standard with AMI, including:
• High-performance glass packages – Super Spacer technology provides enhanced thermal efficiency, condensation resistance and long-term durability.
• Simplified ordering – Fewer SKUs and consistent spacer technology make it simpler to select and order products from AMI.
• Unchanged warranty coverage – Customers gain high-performance systems with no change in warranty coverage.
• Increased capacity – The new automated lines increase throughput by up to 5,000 units per day.
“The new lines in Yuma allow us to scale with confidence, producing high-performing glass packages with the consistency our customers expect,” Natoli said. “We’re energized by the possibilities these updates create for the West and beyond.”
Similar upgrades and enhancements are already underway for
AMI’s operations in the Eastern U.S., with launches planned later this year.
Based in Cuyahoga Falls, Oh., Associated Materials, LLC, is a leader in the building products industry with a focus on quality, innovation and customer success through its three businesses: Associated Materials Innovations, Alside and Gentek Building Products. With a combined revenue of $1.7 billion, these businesses are market leaders in vinyl windows, cladding, metal siding, trim and other essential building products for residential, light commercial and multifamily projects.
------------| MOVERS & SHAKERS
Andrea Smith is now sales mgr. for California and the Western states region for Conrad Forest Products, Arbuckle, Ca. Greg Bratcher has moved from sales to customer service representative for the California and Western States region. Eli Gonzalez is sales mgr. for the Pacific Northwest and Inland region. Kristyn Miller, ex-IWP, has joined the sales team as Inland region senior account mgr. in Post Falls, Id. Lonnie Reents has moved from production at the Rainier, Or., treating plant to sales associate in the Portland, Or./ Vancouver, Wa., area.
Gaven Gregory was named chief operating officer for TAL Building Centers, Vancouver, Wa. Billy Cornelius has been promoted to vice president of pro sales.
Clint Carter, ex-Boise Cascade, has been named market president for US LBM, overseeing California, Washington and Reno/Tahoe, Nv. Dan Villareal has been promoted to market president in New Mexico.
Chris Karabinus, ex-Builders FirstSource, is now market sales mgr. for US LBM in Northern California. Avery Bailey, ex-Mountain West Windows & Doors, has joined the Arizona Building Supply division, Gilbert, Az., as a windows & doors specialist. Joshua Penrod was promoted to market continuous improvement mgr. at ABS in Phoenix, Az. Justin Claar is new to outside sales at the Homewood Lumber division, Rocklin, Ca.
Greg Welling, ex-Woodgrain, has joined Swiss Krono, Klamath Falls, Or., as national sales mgr. for the particleboard division.
Marshall Motes, ex-Direct Lumber & Door, has moved to outside sales at 84 Lumber, Colorado Springs, Co. Todd Beaman, ex-MiTek, is new to outside sales at 84 Lumber in La Mirada, Ca.
Justin Ruhga, ex-Home Depot, has been appointed plant mgr. for Doman Building Materials, Junction City, Or.
Tracy Kenison has been named controller for Southwest Forest Products, Phoenix, Az.
Tony Ellison, ex-PABCO Roofing Products, has been named plant mgr. at Stella-Jones, Sheridan, Or.
Bob Carroll, Simpson Strong-Tie, is now a territory sales representative for the Southwest branch, covering New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Southern California, and Hawaii. He is based in Jurupa Valley, Ca.
Jason Speight, ex-J.E. Higgins/Golden State Flooring, has joined the sales team at Pacific Hardwood, Rancho Cucamonga, Ca.
Brian Stone, ex-Commercial Construction Materials, is a new territory sales rep for ABC Supply, Phoenix, Az. Jason Hodge is now in outside sales with ABC in Albuquerque, N.M.
Alexander Lopez, ex-Lowe’s Pro Supply, is now Oceanside, Ca.-based territory sales mgr. for Fiberon decking, covering San Diego County.
Jason Spirer is new to Palo Duro Hardwoods, Denver, Co., as territory sales mgr.
Rick Matyas, ex-SRS Distribution, has rejoined ABC Supply, selling waterproofing and roofing materials in San Juan Capistrano, Ca.
Ambara® - A Higher Degree of Wood
Jason Ringblom, president, LP Building Solutions, will succeed Brad Southern as CEO when Southern retires on Feb. 19, 2026.
Kayla Thomas is new to OrePac Building Products, Wilsonville, Or., as a digital marketing specialist.
Hailee Vasquez, ex-Reborn Cabinets, is now customer experience supervisor for Legendary CalRep Windows & Doors, Downey, Ca.
Richard Beckwitt, former president and CEO of Lennar Corp., has been appointed to the board of directors for Weyerhaeuser Co., Seattle, Wa.
Nick Poon, ex-Hilti North America, is now with CertainTeed, as territory sales mgr. in Fresno, Ca.
Ellie Mueller is a new account rep with Johns Manville, Littleton, Co.
Jennifer Turner-Ozimek, ex-LP, has been named VP of sales for Allura USA, Houston, Tx.
Brent Lenssen, Vander Griend Lumber, Lynden, Wa., was installed as Western Building Material Association’s 2026 president during its recent conference in Seattle. New WBMA VPs are Shawn Fernandez, Paint Sundries Solutions, Kirkland, Wa., and Danny Steiger, Hartnagel Building Supply, Port Angeles, Wa. Board members include: Joost Douwes, Chinook Lumber, Snohomish, Wa.; Ryan Kline, Disdero Lumber Co., Clackamas, Or.; Blake Montgomery, Boise Cascade, Vancouver, Wa.; Chris Morrison, Franklin Building Supply, Boise, Id.; Lucas Mullen, Lincoln Creek Lumber, Centralia, Wa.; Katelyn Wade, Frontier Building Supply, Anacortes, Wa.; and Janice Walker, Madison Lumber, Ketchikan, Ak.
Judy Haney, Boise Cascade Building Materials Distribution, Boise, Id., was elected chair of the North American Wholesale Lumber Association. She is joined on the executive committee by 1st vice chair Warren Reeves, Wholesale Wood Products, Dothan, Al.; 2nd vice chair Grant Phillips, Wildwood Trading Group, Tualatin, Or.; secretary/treasurer Derek Cone, Capital Lumber Co., Phoenix, Az.; at-large member Thomas Mende, Binderholz Timber, Atlanta, Ga.; and immediate past chair Kyle Little, Sherwood Lumber, Melville, N.Y. The board consists of Kent
Beveridge, Skana Forest Products; Brian Boyd, Manufacturers Reserve Supply; Bobby Byrd, RoyOMartin; Tracey Crow, UFP Industries; Harris Gant, Claymark USA; Gavy Gosal, Terminal Forest Products; KayCee Hallstrom, Zip-O-Log Mills; Paul Odomirok, Great Lakes Forest Products & Lamination; Aaron Sulzer, Sierra Pacific Industries; Matt Vaughan, Buckeye Pacific; Morgan Wellens, Nicholson & Cates; Mike Wilson, BlueLinx; Chelsea Zuccato, Patrick Lumber; and Steve Rustja, Cedar Mills Investments.
Charles Johns has been promoted to director of special wood products for LMC. He succeeds Ron Thompson, who retired after 25 years with LMC. Lauren Brady is now director of corporate meetings. Kelsey Boyer, ex-Freres Wood, has joined Western Forest Products Engineered, Vancouver, Wa., as technical sales mgr.
Shanda Lear is new to the lighting department at Mungus-Fungus Forest Products, Climax, Nv., report co-owners Hugh Mungus and Freddy Fungus.
When Griffin Lumber set out to double their impact at their new Georgia facility, they partnered with CT Darnell to turn their bold ambition into reality.
The result? A state-of-the-art facility— combining a full-service lumberyard and a comprehensive 54,400 SF truss manufacturing plant—delivered through a seamless design-build process.
CT Darnell’s LBM expertise and creative design meant smarter storage, efficient SKU management, and optimized facility flow.
BLUELINX ACQUIRES DISDERO LUMBER
BlueLinx Holdings Inc., a leading national wholesale distributor of building products, has purchased Disdero Lumber Co., a specialty products distributor, from privately held Tumac Lumber Co.
Operating since 1953 and based in Clackamas, Or., Disdero is a value-added distributor of premium specialty wood products. The aggregate purchase price was approximately $96 million, and when adjusted for an estimated $8 million of expected tax benefits, the net transaction value is approximately $88 million. The acquisition was funded with cash on hand and is not expected to materially change the company’s strong liquidity position and low net leverage ratio. It is expected to be immediately accretive to earnings.
Disdero’s offering is comprised entirely of specialty products, featuring a complete line of clear lumber and distinctive wood architectural elements that are sold into nearly all 50 states. Disdero’s products are used primarily in the construction of high-end, custom homes and decks, as well as upscale multi-family residential and commercial projects.
This acquisition follows BlueLinx’s opening of a new greenfield distribution center in Portland, Or., and its previous acquisition of Vandermeer
Forest Products in Washington state.
“This acquisition continues our western expansion and is expected to serve as a catalyst for growth by using our existing distribution network to offer Disdero’s premium specialty products to many of our customers not currently served by Disdero,” said Shyam Reddy, president and CEO at BlueLinx. “We also plan to leverage our national footprint to serve and expand their existing business as a key component of BlueLinx’s strategic growth initiatives. The acquisition enhances our specialty products focus, as well as our geographic expansion and channel diversification strategies. We look forward to welcoming Disdero’s employees to the BlueLinx team, and to continuing their longstanding relationships with suppliers and customers.”
“We are very excited to join BlueLinx and expect to take the successful Disdero business to the next level,” said Ryan Kline, president and CEO of Disdero. “By combining our premium products with the nationwide scale and footprint, deep customer and supplier relationships, and financial strength of BlueLinx, we believe there are significant opportunities to expand our product offering in both new and existing markets.”
IWF TO DEBUT WESTERN SHOW IN 2027
The International Woodworking Fair Atlanta will produce an all-new trade show and conference built to extend and expand IWF’s long-running Atlanta franchise.
IWF West will debut Aug. 25-27, 2027, in San Antonio, Tx., in a threeday trade show built to serve both the burgeoning southwestern U.S. marketplace and IWF’s large national customer base. The new show, which will include a broad selection of educational and social/networking events echoing the Atlanta Conference programming, will bring the best of the Atlanta product mix together with manufacturers making their IWF debut. But the San Antonio event will also deliver its own unique blend of features and focus, separate and apart from Atlanta.
IWF West is created largely in response to growing exhibitor and attendee customer demand for a new trade show experience timed between the biennial IWF Atlanta stagings and sited in a major Southwest city central to Sunbelt business. To meet those and related requirements, IWF West will deliver:
• A concentrated three-day show scheduled for convenience, efficiency and impact.
• A carefully curated mix of manufacturers representing the best of IWF Atlanta plus new first-time exhibitors making their IWF debut.
• A perfectly scaled show floor providing buyers quick and easy access to an extensive mix of machinery, machinery-related products and services, components, supplies and non-machinery related products.
• A more relaxed show environment, in pace and scale, allowing buyers time to explore the products and services they might have missed at IWF Atlanta... and to make more productive connections with new exhibitors.
• Enhanced networking opportunities in a show environment created to help buyers find new ideas, new solutions and new ways to grow their business.
• And customized business-building learning and professional development opportunities featuring wood products technology and design experts in an intimate setting geared toward education.
TREATER TOUR: Allweather Wood, Loveland, Co., recently hosted board members and staff of ASTM International, providing a tour of the operations following the group's board meeting in Denver. (Front row, l-r) Charlie Jourdain, Mendocino Forest Products Co.; Philip Line and Shaina Zarkin-Scott, both of the American Wood Council; Melissa Holbrook, Solmax Geosynthetics; ASTM's Jean Buskirk; Dave Bueche, Hoover Treated Wood Products; and Dana Shellberg and Troy Wilson, Allweather Wood. (Back) ASTM's Heidi Turley; Rich Szecsy, Big Town Concrete; and Jackson Sevier Phillips, AWC.
The new IWF West and IWF Atlanta are sponsored by the Wood Industry Association (WIA). Both IWF Atlanta and IWF West are produced and managed by Atlantabased IWF.
Initial reactions to IWF West have been strong, based on extensive independent research conducted among IWF exhibitor and attendee customers. Both groups expressed positive reactions to the idea of a Western show, especially one located in the state of Texas.
In quantitative research conducted among current IWF Atlanta exhibitors, 56% liked the IWF West show concept with 64% liking its key attributes such as the San Antonio location, accessibility for buyers and show duration. In parallel research conducted among attendees, appeal was even stronger with 63% of buyers attending IWF 2024—the most recent Atlanta show— strongly endorsing the IWF West show idea.
IWF West will be held at the Henry B. González Convention Center, San Antonio’s premier exhibition space nestled in the heart of the city’s historic district. San Antonio is ideally located for easy access from throughout Texas as well as key western states like Colorado, Utah, Nevada and California.
AWFS FAIR TO CUT BACK TO THREE DAYS
Association of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers is changing from a four-day to a three-day schedule for its next biennial event. The 2027 AWFS Fair will now run from Tuesday through Thursday, July 13-15, 2027, in Las Vegas, Nv.
According to Angelo Gangone, executive VP of AWFS,
“This decision came as a result of changes we’ve seen in buyer behavior over the course of several shows. Attendees have more tools at their disposal to research products and plan their events than ever before. Buyers are conducting their business with greater efficiency and returning home to their shops and families with little downtime in between. Eliminating a show day also brings down the overall cost of exhibiting. Based on the research we conducted immediately following the 2025 Fair, we expect this move to be well received by exhibitors, many of whom expressed their opinions on this subject and others. As a result, this is just the first of several exciting changes AWFS Fair will be introducing in the very near term and into 2026.”
Michael Cassell, president of the AWFS board, noted, “For over 113 years, AWFS has worked hard to adjust to industry trends, and there have probably been more changes in the last 10 years than in all of the remaining 103. The adjustment to the length of the show was a very important topic with the exhibitors and attendees alike. In-person discussions, surveys, and the numerous focus group meetings all support the change. This is why the AWFS board of directors fully approves and supports this adjustment, because our industry asked for it and AWFS has responded.”
The AWFS Fair is the largest woodworking industry event in the West and a leading international marketplace for innovation, education, and collaboration. The Fair brings together manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors of machinery, hardware, lumber, construction materials, and related products that serve furniture, cabinet, and custom woodworking professionals worldwide.
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ORGILL HONORS TOP SUPPLIERS OF 2025
As part of its recent annual Vendor Partnership Conference, Orgill invited its top supply partners to get a firsthand look at the distributor’s newly unveiled Innovation Center and honored several manufacturers with Excellence Awards, recognizing their collaboration, partnership and dedication to innovation.
This year’s honorees include:
• Outstanding Partner of the Year: Stanley Black & Decker
• Hardlines Partner of the Year: Midwest Fastener
• Seasonal Partner of the Year: The Valspar Co.
• Innovative Partner of the Year: Recteq
• Supply Chain Partner of the Year: Rust-Oleum
“It is no secret that a big part of our success is owed to the vendors we work with on a daily basis,” said Boyden Moore, Orgill president and CEO. “Without their ongoing support and collaboration, we would simply not be able to fulfill our mission to help our customers be successful. This week, this event and these awards are all designed to strengthen these relationships, reinforce our vision and celebrate the support we get from our vendor partners.”
Announcing the winners of the Orgill Excellence Awards capped off the weeklong Vendor Partnership Conference. In addition to the traditional meetings, collaboration sessions and networking, this year’s Vendor Conference offered Orgill an opportunity to highlight its ongoing investment in future-focused initiatives by hosting attendees at the newly unveiled Orgill Innovation Center.
The Innovation Center officially opened last month and sits alongside Orgill’s headquarters, creating a oneof-a-kind campus where the distributor’s collaboration with channel partners is on full display.
The 553,000-sq. ft. Innovation Center serves as a year-round facility designed to test new retail concepts, merchandising strategies, and technologies.
“The Innovation Center is a game-changer for how we collaborate with our vendors and our customers,” said David Mobley, Orgill executive vice president of sales. “It enables us to advance the level of customization we offer and provide proven solutions that enhance
our customers’ competitive edge.”
Along with a sneak peek inside the new Innovation Center, manufacturers, retail service providers, and other industry partners attending the Vendor Conference took part in strategic planning sessions, performance reviews and open discussions focused on supply chain efficiency, product innovation, and customer success.
“Every year, this event gives us the opportunity to bring our vendor partners up to speed on where we are headed as a company, reaffirm our already strong relationships and work together to discuss mutual goals and how best we can collaborate to better serve our customers,” said Alan Shore, Orgill’s purchasing department director of seasonal merchandising. “This year’s conference hit on all these high notes. Attendance exceeded expectations, and we had strong participation from both long-time partners and new suppliers eager to align with Orgill’s growth strategy.”
LOWE’S RECOGNIZES VENDORS OF THE YEAR
Lowe’s Companies, Inc. announced Resideo, Weber and GE Appliances as its 2025 Vendor Partners of the Year. The suppliers were recognized during the company’s annual Vendor Forum for their commitment to delivering quality products, innovation, value and service to Lowe’s customers.
Additionally, Lowe’s recognized Metrolina Greenhouses as its Sustainability Partner of the Year for demonstrating exceptional leadership through a 100% reclaimed rainwater system, biomass heating with zero fossil fuels, and a plastic recycling program with Lowe’s that has diverted millions of pounds from landfills.
Lowe’s also named Innovation Partners of the Year: Suncast, Spruce by P&G, and Lota.
Eco Water, Idaho Forest Group, Owens Corning and Larson were recognized as divisional winners in the Building Products category.
Purpose Built Brands, Metabo HPT and Central Garden & Pet were recognized as divisional winners in the hardlines category.
American Plastics, Sherwin-Williams, Karran and Johns Manville were also recognized as divisional winners in the home décor category.
HOME DEPOT NAMES INNOVATION WINNERS
Home Depot announced the winners of its 2025 Innovation Awards, recognizing groundbreaking products providing unique value, high performance and efficiency to both DIY and pro home improvement customers.
The winners of the 2025 Innovation Awards include: Overall Winner: EcoSmart Universal Select Light Bulb by Leedarson.
First Runner-Up: Concrete Anchors by Cobra Tork.
Second Runner-Up: Smart Glass Door by Feather River.
Home Depot recognized several finalists as leaders in innovation:
• Frigidaire Gallery 24" Top Control Built in Tall Tub Dishwasher in Stainless Steel.
• Henry UltraTouch Insulation.
• Gorilla ToughLite Heavy Duty Garden Hose.
• Hampton Bay Moreland Ceiling Fan.
• Kidde Smoke & Combo Detector with Ring Monitoring.
STANLEY BLACK & DECKER was honored by Orgill as Outstanding Partner of the Year during the distributor’s recent Vendor Partnership Conference.
• Kwikfeed Ratchet Straps/Tie Downs.
• Milwaukee Battery Powered QUIK-LOK Power Head.
• Prism Single Component Grout.
• Ryobi 40V Mower.
• Traeger Woodridge Series.
Along with the product awards, Home Depot honored Andersen Doors & Windows as Environmental Partner of the Year, Nien Made as Interconnected Partner of the Year, and Ring/Blink as Marketing Innovation Partner of the Year.
One supplier partner in each merchandising category was also recognized as Partner of the Year, highlighting their exceptional dedication and contribution to The Home Depot:
• Appliances: Electrolux
• Bath: Delta Faucet
• Building Materials: USG
• Electrical: US Wire & Cable
• Flooring: QEP
• Hardware: PrimeSource Building Products
• Kitchen: Nien Made Enterprise Co., LTD
• Lighting: Bel Air Lighting
• Lumber: Stimson Lumber
• Millwork: Clopay
• Outdoor Living & Cleaning: Ecolab
• Outdoor Garden: Growscape
• Paint: Behr
• Plumbing: Kissler & Co
• Power Tools: Milwaukee
• Storage: Kreate
HOME DEPOT LAUNCHES AI TAKEOFF TOOL
The Home Depot launched a Blueprint Takeoffs solution, a new AI-powered tool that is designed to provide professional renovators, remodelers and builders with faster, more accurate and cost-effective material lists and estimates for single-family project blueprints.
Creating takeoffs are a critical but often time-consuming phase of any construction project. The new tool leverages AI to deliver a complete material list and quote for an entire single-family project within days, a process that used to take weeks to complete. Pros can then quickly and easily purchase all materials they need for their project through Home Depot, simplifying this complex process by going through a single supplier.
For example, imagine a pro working on a new single-family home build. In the past, the planning process could stretch for weeks before even having an accurate estimate—sourcing every material from the framing lumber to the roof and the last piece of trim, often revising estimates from multiple suppliers in the process. With new solution, pros will receive accurate, competitive quotes on exactly what they need to complete the entire project in a matter of days, all from one source.
“The speed and accuracy of the Blueprint Takeoffs tool give pros more time to focus on what matters most: serving their customers and growing their businesses,” said Mike Rowe, executive vice president of Pro for The Home Depot. “Our goal is to reduce complexity for pros and be the one-stop-shop for all project needs—from initial planning to material delivery. Combining AI technology with our pro team's expertise delivers a new level of efficiency to single-family builds.”
To see the Blueprint Takeoff tool, pros can reach out to their outside sales rep or consult the Pro Desk inside a Home Depot store.
DECEUNINCK TEAMS WITH COLORADO PLANT
Alpen High Performance Products, Louisville, Co., is now producing Deceuninck North America’s European-style Elegant series PVC windows.
Originally exclusive to the European market, Elegant windows and sliding doors provide seamless welds, slim profiles, and flush geometry that deliver modern aesthetics and whole-window U-values as low as 0.09. They maintain structural integrity and thermal performance even in oversized units, meeting rising demand for large windows. The windows incorporate fiberglass composite reinforcements that reduce weight, improve thermal efficiency, and support flexible hardware and installation options.
“Our partnership with Deceuninck has driven the evolution of Alpen’s Tyrol platform. We can now pair the Elegant framing system with our thin-triple and thinquad glazing technologies,” said Alpen CRO Avi Bar.
HOTTEST TRENDS IN OUTDOOR LIVING
According to a new report, 98% of experts agree that outdoor upgrades impact overall home value, and 56% of experts say homeowners are now willing to invest more in their outdoor spaces.
The 2025 Belgard and Yardzen Trend Report: 2025 Trendscapes that Wow identified several outdoor living trends:
1. Pattern Play Patio: Graphic Hardscaping Designs – Contrasting paver patterns turn hardscapes into functional artwork while guiding traffic flow through outdoor spaces. Interesting paver patterns can turn a basic patio into a stunning artscape that rivals any indoor flooring design.
2. Elevated Simplicity: Monochromatic Paver Designs – Clean lines, oversized slabs and a deliberately restricted color palette create a gallery-calm backdrop that lets outdoor furniture and plant silhouettes shine for a simple yet elegant patio design.
3. Urban Modular Lounge: Multi-Functional Outdoor Spaces – Small outdoor spaces must multitask. Using modular materials for built-in benches and planters creates defined, multi-functional spaces, while using large format pavers creates a “biggerthan-it-is” feel.
4. Material Mixing – With limited square footage, add even more appeal to a small outdoor space by mixing materials. Integrate decking for wall cladding or stone wall veneers to create visual interest and texture variation in compact areas.
5. Mountain-Modern Warmth: Natural Material Outdoor Spaces – Warm tones are making a comeback. The varied textures and earth-tone color palettes of mountain-modern warmth provide yearround visual interest and help homeowners feel connected to the natural landscape.
ALL CLAMPS ON DECK
The Deckhands Clamp System from ShadeThings delivers a smarter, cleaner way to mount umbrellas and outdoor accessories on wood, composite or metal deck railings and fences.
The stainless-steel clamps secure firmly without bulky bases or floor obstructions, freeing up valuable deck space and eliminating tripping hazards. They install in minutes using standard tools to hold umbrellas, lighting, torches, flags and more—all with a sleek, low-profile, weatherproof design that complements any railing style.
SHADETHINGS.COM
TRIPLE THE PANE
Andersen Windows is now offering triple-pane glass options for its 100 Series casement, awning and picture windows, bringing high-performance glass technology to one of its most accessibly priced product lines.
Triple-pane windows deliver improved energy efficiency, greater noise reduction, and lower utility costs.
All 100 Series products feature a clean, modern design made with Fibrex composite, which reportedly is twice as strong as vinyl.
ANDERSENWINDOWS.COM (323) 426-4261
TALL WALL DESIGN
Increase efficiency, accuracy and output with Simpson Strong-Tie’s isWall—the first standalone wall design application that allows you to model a tall wall and run gravity and wind analysis for all components.
In addition to generating design results, isWall creates material lists, layout drawings and cutting sheets. Draw right in the 3D module, specify materials, and create unique profile design libraries. isWall works as a standalone module and can also be fully integrated with isPlan and isDesign.
STRONGTIE.COM (800) 999-5099
AI ASSIST
ECI Software Solutions has launched AI Agent, a built-in AI tool within its ecommerce platform, EvolutionX, which also powers its Spruce eCommerce solution.
The AI Agent combines intelligence and real-time insights to help merchants make day-to-day work easier, connect better with customers, and uncover new revenue opportunities—all without complex setup or technical expertise.
The tool provides real-time access to sales, orders and customer behavior to uncover trends and opportunities; an intuitive chat interface; smarter product listings; and fraud detection.
ECISOLUTIONS.COM (866) 374-3221
TORCH-READY POST CAPS
Compatible with both 4" and 5" posts, BuzzCaps instantly convert any deck or fence post into a sturdy torch holder.
Made in the USA, BuzzCaps come in standard white or most any other color meeting minimum order requirements.
BUZZ-CAPS.COM (561) 254-3970
PRIVACY RAIL
Impression Privacy Screen from TimberTech is a first-of-its-kind privacy screen solution that provides both decorative screening and functional railing together in one system, offering homeowners a seamless look.
An expansion of the Impression Rail Express line, it is engineered to work together as a unified system and has been wind-load tested for durability so homeowners can have the cohesive look they want with the performance they need. Its sleek aluminum design complements a range of outdoor styles. It is non-combustible—a key consideration in wildfire-prone regions.
TIMBERTECH.COM (877) 275-2935
FIRE-RESISTANT COMPOSITE DECK
Deckorators has unveiled its first fire-resistant composite decking line, Altitude FR Decking.
Launching in Colorado and California in early 2026, Altitude features a fire-resistant core, has a Class B flame spread rating, and is ASTM E84 Standard Compliant. Colors include Sequoia (red-brown), Trailstone (gray), and Highland (brown).
The boards are available in 15/16" x 5-1/2" dimensions, in 12', 16', and 20' lengths.
DECKORATORS.COM (800) 556-8449
OIL-BASED PRIMER/SEALER
Valspar is rolling out a new high-performance primer designed to deliver outstanding stain blocking, strong adhesion, and reliable surface preparation for interior projects.
Offered in multiple sizes and formats, Valspar OilBased Primer + Sealer is a fast-drying primer ideal for a wide range of interior applications. It blocks stubborn stains and odors—including tannins, water, grease and smoke—while providing excellent adhesion and sandability for a smooth, lasting finish that effectively masks minor imperfections, helping topcoats apply evenly and perform at their best. It comes in 12-oz. aerosol cans or as a paint in quart, 1-gallon and 5-gallon containers.
VALSPAR.COM (877) 825-7727
SIMPLIFY EWP SELECTION
PWT provides designers and specifiers with superior information services to complement its products by providing software tools that do the math to ensure the right product is used.
With an easy-to-use interface for entering data and a single click to get a Pass or Fail, Exacte by PWT provides clear results. The program aims to provide users with peace of mind when it comes to making decisions about their projects.
PWTEWP.COM (888) 707-2285
FLEXIBLE OPENINGS
Marvin has engineered a bold new line of windows and doors to meet demand for design flexibility with expansive sizes and exceptional performance.
The Marvin Vivid collection features a streamlined design to suit a range of architectural styles and includes three window types (casement, awning, direct glaze) and three door types (sliding, swinging, bi-fold), with additional products to be released in 2026.
Large format sizes are offered, with heights up to 10’ and performance grades up to PG50, along with design-forward color palettes, modern hardware, robust frames, and slim profiles. The wide variety of profiles is possible thanks to a proprietary fiberglass-reinforced composite material engineered exclusively for Vivid window interiors. Exteriors are made of durable Ultrex fiberglass.
The products are available in Texas, Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Idaho, Washington and Oregon, with additional availability in 2026.
MARVIN.COM/VIVID (888) 537-7828
CEDAR-LOOK SHAKES
Westlake Royal Building Products has added two new composite shake colors to its DaVinci Roofscapes brand: Timber Black and Blonde Cedar.
Timber Black features deep grays and blacks reminiscent of the rich shades of freshly burning charcoal. Part of the Nature Crafted Collection, it combines a textured shake appearance with bold hues for the authentic feel of rustic black cedar.
Warm and refined, Blonde Cedar has distinct grain patterns that replicate the depth and light, airy coloring of sun-kissed cedar.
Both colors are available in Select Shake, SingleWidth Shake and Multi-Width Shake. DaVinci shake products are modeled from hand-split shake for natural, non-repeating beauty but without the ongoing maintenance, repairs and replacement needs of wood.
WESTLAKEROYALBUILDINGPRODUCTS.COM (800) 521-8486
TFL-ON-PLYWOOD
Funder by Genesis Products has teamed with Garnica to launch EverPly+, an advanced TFL-onplywood solution said to redefine performance, aesthetics and sustainability in the decorative panel market. It combines Funder’s expertise in thermally fused laminate with Garnica’s renowned sustainable practices and premium plywood core technology.
Features include a void-free core for greater stability and machinability; defect-free results across any decorative TFL surface; and dimensional thickness accuracy for superior consistency and ease of fabrication.
GENESISPRODUCTSINC.COM (877) 266-8292
LBM DEALERS FLOCK TO PHILADELPHIA FOR LMC EXPO
THE 2025 LMC EXPO ignited a powerful gathering in Philadelphia, Pa., uniting the champions of the LBM industry, dealers, suppliers, and the LMC team, to set the stage for a breakthrough year in 2026. Over three impactful days, LMC dealers picked up exclusive market insights from forest product leaders, boosted their purchasing strategies with LMC contracts and programs, and connected with top dealers from coast to coast.
The Expo also delivered expert insights on the latest building innovations and product trends, helping members stay ahead of the curve. The event kicked off with a Component Alliance roundtable, Supplier Forum, Business Continuity Panel, and a session on Futures. Additionally, the LMC Kitchen and Bath department hosted a focused, design-sales training tailored specifically for kitchen & bath professionals.
When the show floor opened, the atmosphere was electric. Dealers, suppliers and staff filled the Pennsylvania Convention Center, turning every booth into a busy hub of conversation as they gathered to shape their 2026 purchasing strategies.
Joe Miles, president of rk Miles, West Hatfield, Ma., and LMC chairman of the board, said “The LMC Expo is where our network comes alive. It’s more than buying power, it’s about people connecting and sharing ideas. The tools and opportunities here set us up for real growth in 2026, but it’s the relationships that move our industry forward.”
The convention floor buzzed with direct access to top suppliers, many senior leaders, setting the Expo apart from other events. The LMC team actively supported dealers in leveraging exclusive programs and contracts to build stability in an ever-evolving marketplace.
The Expo concluded with LMC CEO and president Paul Ryan sharing key insights, accomplishments and plans for 2026.
He was followed by a keynote from Jesse Wade, CBE, economist and director of tax and trade policy analysis for NAHB. Wade discussed trends shaping the industry, including the impact of state and federal tax policies, international trade dynamics, and the future of building materials.
Sean Tighe, LMC’s senior vice president of purchasing, remarked, “The LMC Expo prepares dealers for the next year by bringing them face-to-face with all members of the network. When dealers share their challenges and solutions in real time, they realize the strength they gain from being part of LMC. The relationships formed at the Expo are the backbone of our competitive advantage. Helping our dealers buy better and connect deeper makes us stronger together.”
As one of the final celebrations of LMC’s 90th anniversary, the Expo marked both a milestone and a launchpad. Attendees left not only with plans for the future, but also with the tools to execute them.
LMC looks forward to welcoming members to the 2026 LMC Annual in Chicago, March 10–12.
LMC is the longest-standing forest products and building materials buying group in the U.S., serving independent lumber and building material dealers since 1935. In addition to its core dealer base, the organization has long supported component manufacturers and has expanded to serve millwork shops, gypsum specialists, commercial packaging companies, and post-frame building manufacturers, and—added most recently— modular manufacturers MM
MOOD AMONG dealers attending the recent LMC Expo in Philadelphia was described as electric.
WEST COAST
WEST COAST LBMA enjoyed record turnout for its recent convention in San Diego. A highlight was the presentation of awards, voted on by members. Osborne Lumber, Newark, Ca., was recognized as Dealer of the Year, Humboldt Sawmill as Associate Supplier of the Year, Ashby Lumber’s Alvaro Duarte as Dealer Rising Star, and Western Woods Inc.’s Kevin Richter as Associate Supplier Rising Star.
During the event, outgoing president Chris Fleiner, Reno Carson Lumber, passed the reins to his successor, Emily Morgan of Ashby. Other officers are 1st VP Dan Delaney, Ganahl; treasurer/secretary Sean Fogarty, Osborne; dealer directors Merritt Goodyear, Augie Venezia, Jill Gaylor, Paulo Sitolini, Jeff Scott, Ann Alvelais; and supplier directors Eric Pitner, Thomas Stremlau, Victor Hausmaninger, Sam Patti, and Matt Fink. MM
AWARDS [ 1 ] were presented by (l-r) new president Emily Morgan to Sam Patti, Sean Fogarty, Brandon Arca, Kevin Richter, Roxanne Celentano, Alvaro Duarte, Christine TaylorBorn. [ 2 ] Geoff Garner, Jeff Tweten. [ 3 ] Patrick Towle, Thomas Stremlau. [ 4 ] Bill Hendricks. [ 5 ] Jordan Lynch, Mark Stewart. [6] Chris Richter, Kevin Richter. [ 7 ] Brad Satterfield, Thom Wright. [8] Brad Parsons, Paul Johnson. [9] Andy Carlo, Craig Crafton. [10] Cami Waner, Betsy Bendix. [ 11 ] Christine Taylor-Born, Sam Patti, Roxanne Celentano. [ 12 ] Nick Burckel, Matt Endriss. [13] Tyler Lebon, Brian Rocha, Tim To, Steve Lopez, Emily Morgan, Alvaro Duarte, James Wiley. [ 14 ] Tyler Coburn. [ 15 ] Mikhail Mikhailov, Rick Gebhart. [16] Wayne Adkins, Troy Galvez. [17] James Fleming, Tom Lucas.
Greg Tanner, Ray Weidner. [ 10 ] Jack Gardner, John Langstroth. [ 11 ] Laura Heatherington, Stacey Chase. [12] Jim Olson, Curt Allen, Tim Madigan. [13] Kalvin Eden, Nick Price. [14] Ken Weiss, Grant Rebadow. [15] Devin Stuart, Paul Owen. [16] Brad Bedford, Chase Darnell. [17] Kevin Dodds, Aly Kingsley, Greg Martin, Jake Moriniti, Grant Phillips. (More
NORTH AMERICAN Wholesale Lumber Association held its annual Traders Market Nov. 5-7 in Kansas City, Mo. [1] Max Yarbrough, Dave Patch, Robert Norman. [2] Raven Garrett, Emily Russ. [3] Danny Modhgill, John Haugh. [4] Deonn DeFord, Thom Wright. [5] Kyle Davis, Brent Gilbert, Wil Kuester. [6] Jeff Wiesner, Ryan Cornutt, Emily Bachand. [ 7 ] Bill Mayfield, David Preston, Rob Rowe, Danny Osborne. [8] Steve Conroy, Dee Pferdehirt, Darryl Loewen. [9] Andy Faircloth,
Harley, Marshall Owens. [27] KC Kelly, Kevin Stanton, Makenna Bell. [28] Adam Blodgett, Aaron Shoup. [29] Marc Marcoux, Steve Barth, Anthony Newby. [30] Laura Hindes, Katie White. [31] Ian Penney, Jamie Moulton. [32] Chuck Casey, Peter Krihak. [ 33 ] Elizabeth Grant, Mike Siegel. [ 34 ] Joe Buttice. [ 35 ] Scott Reynolds, Chris Lindeboom, Duane Smith. (More
TRADERS MARKETERS (continued from previous page) : [ 18 ] Cam Stevens, Chelsea Zuccato, Natalie Heacock, Zack Halsey, Kaylana Crook, Henry Schoonmaker . [ 19 ] Josh Tyler, Kristine Danielsen . [ 20 ] Kirk Todish, Jim Vandegrift. [21] Jason Sandy, Brandon Wilcox, John Hamamy . [22] Dalton Van Esselstyn, David Stallcop. [23] Jeff & Cassidy Bowers, Noah Macy. [24] Jonny Wilford, Bobby Lewis, Harris Gant. [25] Dana Bennett, Justin Vieira. [26] Tom
Photos
[42] Dean Johnson, Trevette Fisher, Joe La Berge, Tom Insko, Dan Tinkham. [43] Alex Darrah. [44] Mark Swinth, Tim Atkinson. [45] Mike Taron, Rick Yonke, Chad Goman, Aaron Fleming. [46] Mark Kelly, Leslie Southwick, Brett Slaughter. [47] Kristie McCurdy, Tricia Dauzat, Paul Pfingsten, Kelly Matthews. [48 ] Bob Uglow, Trent Johnson, Ryan Brunner.
NAWLA TRADERS MARKET attendees (continued from previous pages) : [ 36 ] John Morrison, Claus Staalner. [ 37 ] Ken Trainor, James Russell. [ 38 ] William Ramos, Bill Reynolds, Craig Combs. [39 ] Joel Lambert, Steve Cheatham. [40] Evan Smith, Mike Stevens, Thom Wright, Brian Benson. [41 ] Micah Sutfin, Terry Haddix, Teddy Christou, Madi Muller, Troy Jeffery, Steve Getsiv, Laurens Van Kleef.
Photos
DECK EXPO
Straetz, Alexis Truong. [ 9 ] Martin Crepeau, Marco Vachon. [ 10 ] Mike Howser, Phil Lahr, Craig Hoberman, Chad Feazel. [11] Erika Behling, Adam Rini. [12] Derek Barksdale, Lacy McCullough, Kevin Conley. [13] Tessa Elling, Tanner Cannon, Anna Shineflew, Bobby White. [14] Team Deckorators: Taylor Robida, Chris Berg, Jamie Hossink, Mara Allen, Patrick Hayes, Rylee George, Eric Wallace, Michael O’Connell, Kevin Kucera, Michelle Hendricks, Aaron Weiss. (More photos on next page)
DECK EXPO brought twice the energy by again co-locating with the Pool Spa Patio Expo Oct. 22-24 in Las Vegas. [ 1 ] Steve Lonsway, Chris Boyts, Marshall Owens, Matt Koble, Jason Lewis, Andy Hackerson. [ 2 ] Sara Petcavage, Todd Sargent, Peter Pran. [ 3 ] Mike Kunard, Luke Armbrust, Bobby Parks. [ 4 ] Neil Adams, Brett Kelly. [5] Jim Denn, Mitch Cook. [6] Joplin DuBose, Efrain Soto, John Ross. [7] Nathalia Sepulveda, Jessie Champagne, Daniel Sepulveda. [8] Carey
CELEBRATING top deck builders at Deck Expo (continued from previous page): [15 ] Jon Foss, Kevin Haney, Wes Kain, Andrew Pantelides, Quinton Weber. [16 ] Ronnie Marlin, Andrew Romano, Ralph Schmidt. [17] Tom McMahon, Matt Glenn.
DO IT BEST/TRUE VALUE OPENS TECH CENTER
Do it Best and True Value have opened a new regional technology center in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, reinforcing its commitment to digital transformation, attracting top-tier talent, and delivering long-term growth for its Do it Best and True Value store owners.
The new tech center is part of the company’s broader strategy to expand its capabilities and drive operational excellence across its significantly larger enterprise. Located at the Cypress Waters campus near the DFW airport, the facility provides a flexible, modern space where new team members can onboard effectively, collaborate in person, and immerse themselves in the company’s culture.
“Building for the future requires both vision and action,” said CEO Dan Starr. “By opening this tech center in Dallas-Fort Worth, we’re expanding our IT capabilities, accelerating critical initiatives, and ensuring all our dealers have the innovation and operational strength they need to succeed in today’s competitive retail marketplace.”
“The Dallas/Fort Worth region was chosen for its unmatched advantages. In addition to being home to more than 100 of Do it Best Group’s technology and
vendor partners, along with two distribution centers in Corsicana and Waco, the area offers one of the strongest IT and retail technology labor markets in the country,” said CIO Ken Widner. “This allows the company to recruit top talent while maintaining close proximity to key partners and resources.”
Do it Best and True Value are immediately recruiting for IT positions, with a goal to build out the team over the next year. These roles include software engineers, analysts, and leadership positions.
Leaders from the company will guide the new hub’s development, instilling its values, culture and growth mindset as the team comes online. The hub will play a critical role in advancing technology initiatives, improving efficiencies, and creating momentum across the enterprise.
“This expansion demonstrates our transformational thinking and our confidence in the future of the Do it Best Group,” added Starr. “Our store owners can be assured that we are making the right investments in technology and talent to help guide everyone’s businesses forward with strength, stability and innovation.”
[18] Shaun Jennings, Luke Gibbs, Anthony DiSanto, Kyle DeMaro. [19] Kurt Hogard, Jonathan Winoker, Chris Johnson. [20] Kalvin Eden, Rob Mitchell, Nick Price. [21] Duane Smith, Steve Thurber, Chadd Furley. [22] Andy Kiljinski, Ryan Cyr.
Daniel Leonard “Danny” Vierra, 83, former president and owner of Valley Distributors, Turlock, Ca., died on Nov. 7.
Danny began his career as a driver for Diamond National Lumber Co., Modesto, Ca. In 1967, he joined Valley Distributors as its first employee, quickly rising to foreman, and part owner before eventually becoming sole owner. In 2016, Danny closed the business and retired.
Thomas J. Vincent, 78, founder of Coeur d’Alene Builders Supply, Coeur d’Alene, Id., and several related companies, passed away on Oct. 19 after a 25-year battle with Parkinson’s disease.
A 1969 graduate of Washington State University, Tom started Coeur d’Alene Builders Supply in 1976 manufacturing trusses. He later added Spokane Builders Supply, Spokane, Wa.; Sandpoint Builders Supply, Sandpoint, Id.; and Tri City Builders Supply.
Tom retired in 1995 upon selling Spokane Builders Supply. CDA and Sandpoint remain in the family.
Alvin J. Topping, co-founder of County Lumber Co., Santa Barbara and Goleta, Ca., died on Oct. 13 at the age of 100.
Al served in the U.S. Army during World War II, achieving the rank of corporal.
With partners Greg Gartrell, Dick Owen and Ron Barker, he helped
launch County Lumber in 1972. They sold the company to Hayward Lumber in 2000.
Richard Stillwell, founder of Pacific Grove Hardware, Pacific Grove, Ca., died on Oct. 26 at the age of 95.
Richard and his brother-in-law, Donald McCann, founded M&S Building Supply, Monterey, Ca., in 1961 (the “S” stands for Stillwell). He sold his share to his partner in 1968 (the business closed in 2023). In 1978, Richard opened Pacific Grove Hardware, which continues to this day under the Stillwell family.
Richard was named Citizen of the Year by the Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce in 1995.
Ryle C. Stemple Jr. retired vice president of WTD Industries, Portland, Or., passed away on Nov. 1 at the age of 91.
Ryle graduated from Oregon State University, then joined the U.S. Navy as a hospital corpsman. During summers home from college, he had worked on Weyerhauser fire crews. He began his career in sales for an irrigation company and years later, with a partner, purchased supplier Moore-Rane Manufacturing, Corvallis, Or. After shuttering his business in the early 1980s, Ryle moved to WTD, helping to acquire, reopen and manage several lumber mills throughout the Pacific Northwest.
David Lynn Ver Plank, 89, former co-owner of Sharps Building Supply, Hemet, Ca., passed away on Nov. 8.
A GROWING TRADITION FOR ALL
about Hoo-Hoo International and your local chapter, how you can become a member. Who is a Hoo-Hoo?
After graduating from Riverside City College in 1956, he served in the U.S. Army. David then began working for Sharp’s, and eventually bought the business with his partners, Richard Hulstrom and Bill Franke.
Paul Arthur Wnuk, 87, longtime general manager of Sierra Lumber Co., Stockton, Ca., died on Nov. 6. Paul spent 59 years in the lumber and door manufacturing industries, ending with nearly 30 years (from 1986 to 2014) as GM at Sierra Lumber.
Anita Irene Stowell, 87, longtime manager of Tehachapi Lumber/Ace Hardware, Tehachapi, Ca., passed away on Oct. 23.
Andrew Longcrier Jr., 79, Ukiah, Ca., sawmill manager, died on Nov. 15. Andy began his 35-year career in the lumber industry pulling green chain, rising to manager.
Clarence Ray “Bud” Gearhart, former head of maintenance for the Rogge Lumber Co., Bandon, Or., died on Nov. 4. He was 95.
Joyce Patricia Elliott DeCou, 90, co-owner of DeCou Lumber Co., Atascadero, Ca., died on Nov. 1.
Joyce’s husband, Jerry, purchased his father’s share of Hagle-DeCou Lumber and in 1972 bought the business outright and renamed it DeCou Lumber Co. The couple closed the yard in 2012.
Its programs offer members information about worthwhile matters both
Listings are often submitted months in advance. Always verify dates and locations with sponsor before making plans to attend.
FutureScape USA – Dec. 9-10, Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, Ca.; www.futurescapeusa.com.
Western Building Material Association – Dec. 9-10, yard design & operational excellence workshop, DoubleTree Suites, Seattle, Wa.; www.wbma.org.
Western Forestry & Conservation Association – Dec. 10, scaling for non-scalers, Bennett Lumber Products, Princeton, Id.; www. westernforestry.org.
Southern California Hoo-Hoo Club – Dec. 11, holiday meeting/golf, Serranos Country Club, Chino, Ca.; www.hoohoo117.org.
West Coast Lumber & Building Material Association – Dec. 11, 2nd Growth holiday meeting, Hot Rods & Handguns Shooting & Social Club, Huntington Beach, Ca.; www.lumberassociation.org.
North American Deck & Railing Association – Jan. 7-9, annual summit & awards gala, Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, Clearwater Beach, Fl.; www.nadra.org.
Council on Forest Engineering – Jan. 8, western region seminar, Lebanon, Or.; www.cofe.org.
Colorado Springs Home Building & Remodeling Show – Jan. 9-11, Norris-Penrose Event Center, Colorado Springs, Co.; www. homeshowcenter.com.
Oregon State University – Jan. 15-16, cut-to-length seminar, Corvallis, Or.; www.westernforestry.org.
World of Concrete – Jan. 19-22, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nv.; www.worldofconcrete.com.
Sacramento Hoo-Hoo Club – Jan. 20, general meeting & initiation, The Officer’s Club, McClellan, Ca.; www.hoohoo109.org.
Western Building Material Association – Jan. 20, introduction to building material sales, Embassy Suites Portland Airport, Portland, Or.; www.wbma.org.
International Roofing Expo – Jan. 20-22, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nv.; www.theroofingexpo.com.
American Wood Protection Association – Jan. 21, winter executive committee meeting, Bartow, Fl.; www.awpa.com.
Black Bart Hoo-Hoo Club – Jan. 21, Industry Night, Broiler Steakhouse, Redwood Valley, Ca.; www.hoo-hoo.org.
Western Building Material Association – Jan. 21-22, estimating workshop, Embassy Suites Portland Airport, Portland, Or.; www. wbma.org.
AFTER the United States entered World War II, the government realized it would require a large percentage of the nation’s resources—including lumber—to meet the needs of the military. In January 1942, the War Production Board issued a Limitation Order (L-335) that controlled the allocation, production and use of lumber and lumber products, to ensure that essential warneeds were served and civilian uses were managed.
Throughout the war, The California Lumber Merchant tracked the ongoing amendments to the restrictions. There was always a question of who could use how much of what Sawmills were required to submit
monthly production and inventory reports and, in many cases, were instructed on what they were required to produce. Much of that production was then sold to the military, at prices dictated by the military. The mills were capped at how much they could sell at market prices for non-war applications.
Companies further down the supply chain had it even tougher, since they were powerless to receive the products that their “non-essential” customers were begging for. Many retailers and wholesalers were forced to close their doors—some permanently, others until the restrictions subsided.
By the end of 1944, the industry had begun anxiously counting the
The December 1944 front cover highlighted Los Angeles-based wholesaler George E. Ream Co. In 1949, the firm was acquired by Harbor Plywood Corp., Hoquiam, Wa., and renamed Harbor Plywood Corp. of Southern California.
days until the dissolution of L-335. In the December 1944 issue of The Merchant, publisher Jack Dionne reported, with a sign of relief, “It has been officially announced by those in high authority that not only the much cussed and discussed L-335, but most other restrictions on lumber distribution will be taken off as soon as the European phase of the war ends.”
He ended his column with a poem:
The $64 Question
I’ve read L-335, oh Lord, With all its clear writ pages, The law of the War Production Board
And its bureaucratic sages.
But the writings of that august board,
With legal minds so fresh, Have made me fear that I, oh Lord, Am weak in mind and flesh. In simple language, oh so clear, They amend Amendment C, While I, poor soul, have yet, I fear, To master Amendment B.
an
So, let me ask you this, oh Lord, It’s just a simple feeler: How does a fellow buy a board From a retail lumber dealer? MM
During the holiday season, many lumber manufacturers—including Pope & Talbot (above left) and Holmes Eureka Lumber (above right)—turned their annual Christmas thank-you ads into a prayer for peace in a turbulent time and
acknowledgment of their faith that America would prevail.
