Molding company grows right out of its name

N ABILITY to produce virtually any type of redwood moulding and a steady volume panel capacity is pushing a small northern California company into a position of leadership in its field.

Cal-Waii Molding Co. of tiny Windsor, Ca., currently turns out some 30 standard patterns of redwood moulding, with the ability to meet builder demand for almost any custom moulding. In addition, it produces several specialty items, and is becoming a potent force in the redwood paneling market.

Now, this record expansion is causing the company to change its name to Windsor Mill, Inc.

in the industry. Today, shipments of redwood paneling and moulding move from this small northern California town to customers in Europe, Asia, and on Pacific Islands. The company's quality product is becoming known to architects and builders worldwide.

Previously, Flynn spent l0 years in lumber remanufacturing, working as everything from truck driver to general manger of a mill. In that time, he perceived what he felt were missing ingredients in the production of moulding and paneling. Mainly, these were in the area of custom work to fit specialized moulding needs, and much greater

Sfory at a Glance

C01{CEtlISATll{G is Marcial Gaitan as he feeds 6" interior redwood oanelino into the re-saw oDeration.

"The name Cal-Waiiworked out very well when our sales were mainly in California and Hawaii," explains marketing director Jim Stroupe. "But now that our product is sold worldwide, we believe Windsor Mill will do a better job of telling who we are."

Formed by Ray Flynn at Cotati, Ca., in October, 1971, the Russian River area firm has grown from just two people to a work force of more than 50 in those few short years. Dan Naughton, who started out with Flynn, is plant manager.

However, Windor's relatively small size belies the wallop it packs attention to the actual finishing of the product. So he formed his own company to fill that gap.

Increasing growth and sales that have become world-wide result in a cor- porate name change ... beginning with redwood mouldings, the company now plans an expansion into pine mouldings next year.

Today, he sees his work force as a team of skilled specialists and problem-solvers, backed by an array of modern lumber manufacturing equipment.

For example, Windsor Mill now features a variety of moulders, a six-saw trim saw line, and wide-belt sander in its production lineup. Flynn and company also are proud of their new finger-joint and edge-gluer equipment which has just become operational. Installation of this equipment will enable them to manufacture items such as redwood fascia in a very competitive manner.

Another important advance has been the installation of a computer data processing system for inventory control and production management.

"Keeping on top of inventory and production with our system means a smoother product flow and a more dependable source for the customer," explains Flynn.

Presently, the company is celebrating a record setting year and its (Please turn to page 97)