Panels & Furniture Asia September/October 2018

MICA (P) No: 123/05/2018 • ISSN: 0219-5704 • KDN: PPS 1453/11/2012(022879) • www.panelsfurnitureasia.com • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018

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06

MARKET REPORT Benefiting from Japanese plywood manufacturing technologies (Part 1)

12

Vietnam: The place to be for the wood processing industry

16

The Vietnam wood industry monitoring as U.S.-China trade war escalates

18

SPECIAL REPORT Infringement

20

PANEL MANUFACTURING Quality. Service. Respect

22

FURNITURE MANUFACTURING Growth thanks to smart investments

26

Humble and high-reaching, Lam Viet does not shy away from risks

28

IN PERSON Taking Thailand’s wood industry in his stride

31

36 38

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

CONTENTS

Editor’s Note

MATERIALS U.S. hardwood lumber supply now and the future Interconnecting, Overlapping, Intertwining

42

DESIGN Capturing Murray River – voice of the Cobram Library and Learning Centre

46

Flow and fluidity

50

STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS A Herman Miller Inspiration

54

Rising high above

58

BIFA WOOD VIETNAM SPECIAL

68

SHOW REVIEWS

75

COLUMNISTS Wood Clinic

78

MMMA Newsletter

82

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

84

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

6

EDITOR'S NOTE Singapore MICA (P) No. 123/05/2018

VIETNAM WOOD INDUSTRY: GOVERNMENT SUPPORT AND GREAT GROWTH

T

ime flies and we have now reached the second last issue for the year.

In this issue, we have placed a focus on Vietnam — a country where its wood processing industry has grown drastically and is going to do so for the next decade.

In just 2017 alone, the Vietnamese woodworking industry saw a revenue of US$8 billion, a 10 per cent growth from US$7.3 billion in 2016. With such a phenomenal growth in the last decade, Vietnam has become a serious contender to overtake China as the world’s manufacturing powerhouse.

PANG YANRONG | Editor

In fact, the government of Vietnam has given its support to promote the wood process and forestry export industry (p.58). At “The orientations and solutions for a rapid and sustainable development of the timber and forest product processing industry and export” conference, Mr Nguyen Xuan Phuc, prime minister of Vietnam, said that more support will be given for the wood processing and forestry production industry in order to realise goals and create jobs in the rural and mountainous areas.

He also emphasised the need to ensure that high-quality raw material wood is legally sourced such as raising awareness among the industry to shift from extensive forestry practices to intensive practices by using high-level techniques and high-yield plant varieties.

Bob Hsu, sales manager of Fancywood, also reiterates the competitive landscape of the Vietnamese furniture industry too (p.16).

“We believe that in the near future, Vietnam will become a very important home-living and furniture manufacturer in the world. Worldwide orders will come to Vietnam very soon as you can’t find a better place in Asia than Vietnam for furniture production,” he said.

With the support of the government and the huge growth of the industry, BIFA Wood Vietnam (p.60), a woodworking event right in the furniture cluster of Vietnam, Binh Duong, aims to bring the latest technology to Vietnam’s woodworking industry and provide a platform for businesses to expand or tap into the Vietnamese market.

So start flipping through the pages to find out more and do not forget to follow us on Facebook (@panelsfurnitureasia) and LinkedIn (Panels & Furniture Asia) for the latest trends and developments in the industry!

panelsfurnitureasia.com Editor | Pang Yanrong yanrong@pabloasia.com Assistant Editor | Sarah Si sarahsi@pabloasia.com Assistant Editor | Szeto Hiu Yan hiuyan@pabloasia.com Deputy Executive Editor (Chinese Edition) | Wendy Wei pabloshanghai@163.net Graphic Designer | Edwin De Souza edwin@pabloasia.com Admin & Circulation Manager | Shu Ai Ling circulation@pabloasia.com Associate Publisher | Pamela Buckley pamela@pabloasia.com Publisher | William Pang williampang@pabloasia.com

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Panels & Furniture Asia

LET'S CONNECT!

is the official publication of Malaysian MDF Manufacturers Association

@panelsfurnitureasia ™

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

NEWS 7

GREENPANEL LAUNCHES CLUB GRADE HDF - A PERFECT SUBSTITUTE TO PLYWOOD G R E E N PA N E L ( p a r t o f G re e n p l y

these HDF boards extremely strong, highly

Industries), India’s largest wood panel

resistant to water and the perfect choice for

manufacturer, has launched the Club

humid areas.

Grade HDF (High density fiber board). An extremely strong and heavy-duty board,

Due to its fibrous homogeneous construction

Club Grade HDF is the water-resistant

GREENPANEL Club Grade HDF can be

board manufactured in state-of-the-art

profiled, carved, moulded and routed easily,

plants, using German technology.

which is a difficult task with plywood. It has

NEW unused Door processing machine for SALE at BELOW COST

a higher density than local plywood, hence, GREENPANEL CLUB GRADE HDF board

resulting in more strength and compactness.

is the perfect substitute for plywood

By virtue of its constitution, it is termite and

and the first choice for applications in

borer resistant unlike plywood, which is

moisture prone areas such as kitchen and

vulnerable to woodworm.

bathrooms. Made from high density fibre, these boards are anti-fungal, and borer

Moreover, the GREENPANEL Club Grade HDF

resistant too — making them the first

is extremely cost-effective and comes at half

choice for house interiors. The choice of

the price of BWP Plywood, thus, making it the

raw materials coupled with quality checks

perfect substitute for plywood. â„—

at every stage of the manufacturing make GREENPANEL CLUB GRADE HDF board is the perfect substitute for plywood and the first choice for applications in moisture prone areas

Due to its fibrous homogeneous construction GREENPANEL Club Grade HDF can be profiled, carved, moulded and routed easily

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Contact: maywood.co@gmail.com PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

8

NEWS

WOOD-MIZER RELEASES NEW SAWMILLS AND 4-SIDED PLANER/MOULDER WOOD-MIZEr has released two new

The LT15 POWER cuts logs up to 70cm

The LT15 START cuts logs up to 70cm

sawmills in their popular LT15 series.

in diameter, has an 11kW motor, and an

in diameter and 5.4m in length with the

electric up/down and push feed operation.

standard bed. To cut longer logs, bed

LT15 POWER – SIMPLE, AFFORDABLE AND STURDY

Options include electronic setworks,

extensions can be added to extend the

power feed and a debarker. To cut longer

sawmill bed to any required cutting length.

The LT15 POWER is an extra rigidly-

logs, bed extensions can be added to

constructed sawmill with a new heavy-

extend the sawmill bed to any required

The sawmill features push feed and a

duty bed system. This sawmill is designed

cutting length.

manual crank for repositioning of the

to be basic, rigid and simple, and is ideal

blade for the next cut. A 7.5kW motor is

lower maintenance costs while ensuring

LT15 START – MAXIMUM AFFORDABILITY, SIMPLE OPERATION

durability of the machine.

The LT15 START is the ideal affordable

Due to the similarities in both products,

sawmill for straightforward timber

the LT15 START will replace the LT10

for companies that need to increase their sawmilling capacity with minimal labour,

processing with sturdy construction and simple features.

the standard and the 14HP petrol engine is also available.

as the ideal way to start sawmilling affordably and with proven quality. The LT10 sawmill will no longer be offered.

The LT15 START and LT15 POWER sawmills are now available.

The new LT15 START sawmill for affordable and basic sawmilling needs

The new LT15 POWER sawmill for heavy-duty sawmilling requirements

WOOD-MIZER RELEASES AFFORDABLE MP260 4-SIDED PLANER/MOULDER FOR WORKSHOPS

•

“The MP260 planer/moulder is the perfect

The MP260 ships on a pallet and requires

Wood-Mizer has released the MP260

companion to a Wood-Mizer sawmill,”

minimal assembly. Wood-Mizer supplies

four-sided planer/moulder — a versatile,

said Robert Baginski, president of Wood-

planer knives and moulding profiles

compact machine engineered for

Mizer Industries. “With this versatile

through their line of cutting tools as well as

professional woodworkers, carpenters,

and durable planer/moulder used in

comprehensive sawdust extraction systems

or joiners in the construction trade.

combination with a Wood-Mizer sawmill,

to accompany the MP260.

Affordable and easy to use, the MP260

our customers can truly realise their full

Even larger 1-sided and 2-sided

creativity and produce whatever timber is

planing/moulding capacities.

needed by their clients — from log all the way through to finished timber products.”

The release of the MP260

planes and moulds boards on all four sides, in a single pass, into a variety of professionally finished products including flooring, planed boards, crown moulding, cabinet trim, panelling, door and window frames, and furniture components.

“The MP260 planer/moulder is the perfect companion to a Wood-Mizer sawmill,” said Robert Baginski, President of Wood-Mizer Industries

planer/moulder builds on WoodMizer's position as a worldwide manufacturer and supplier of narrow band sawmills. The company now offers a full range of equipment that can seamlessly

Top features:

convert logs into timber as well

•

4-sided planing and profiling in one

as finished wood products, which

pass.

is all backed by Wood-Mizer's

Large 4-sided cutting capacity —

expertise and commitment to

260mm wide x 100mm high.

excellent customer service. ℗

•

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

NEWS 9

EXCITECH EXPANDS REACH IN EUROPE EXCITECH, the renowned Chinese

applications, as well as special processing

engineering company is expanding its

techniques and key applications, said

PRIORITISING CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS

sales and service locations with a German-

Burkhard Sydow, managing partner of

EXCITECH also customises according to the

based sales and service company,

ATROGO GmbH.

customer’s needs — be it start-ups or small

ATROGO GmbH, for the European region.

businesses with cost-efficient production

ATROGO GmbH is a performing strategy

As quality can never be outsourced,

or established large companies looking for

building and engineering company that

ATROGO has invested a lot in their

highly automated systems.

understands the clear specifications

production facility — from the most

needed for the technologies of the

economical to the most complex. All are

An example is the redevelopment of the

machines.

precisely engineered, manufactured and

edge-complete machining of hot-air edges

controlled in-house to ensure the high

on an oblique edge surface at an angle of 30

STATE-OF-THE-ART PRODUCTS

standards of the companies such as

to 48 degrees. The edgebander includeds

The wide range of high quality products

EXCITECH is met. The entire production

finish-processing in combination with the

includes solutions for board storage

process of each machine for the Europe

commercial EVA or PUR gluing on request.

equipment, panel saws, nesting machines,

market is coordinated by the developers

edgebanding machines, 5- and 6-side

of ATROGO GmbH, and carefully and

EXCITECH is committed to ensuring that

drilling machines, machining centres,

systematically controlled on site during

its customers’ business is a success by

5-axis machines and other systems for the

manufacturing to achieve the guaranteed

providing economically computable tailored

panel board industry and woodworking

precision and quality.

solutions to achieve goals. ℗

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

NEWS 11

MTCC APPOINTS DATUK K. YOGEESVARAN AS NEW CHAIRMAN RECENTLY, the Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) welcomes Datuk K. Yogeesvaran as its new chairman.

MTCC CEO Yong Teng Koon said, “We are very honoured to have Datuk Yogeesvaran as our new chairman as he brings with him a great wealth of experience and expertise following a distinguished career with the civil service that spans over 37 years.”

“Datuk Yogeesvaran began his career at the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) as an administrative and diplomatic service (PTD) officer in 1981. The positions he had held included director, Knowledge Economy Division; director, Industry Service Division; and deputy director-general (Macro) of the EPU before being promoted as the secretary general for the Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities in August 2017 until his retirement in May 2018.

With such a distinguished personality, MTCC will definitely benefit from Datuk Yogeesvaran’s knowledge and experience to advance and spearhead the sustainable forest management agenda in the country through the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme,” added Yong.

On his appointment as chairman of MTCC, Datuk Yogeesvaran said, “I thank the minister of Primary Industries for the trust given to lead the MTCC. I count it a privilege to serve and will do my level best to contribute to our national sustainability agenda of ensuring that the precious forest resources that we have are being managed sustainably while at the same time continue to fulfil the growing market demands for green products.” ℗

From left: Newly appointed MTCC Chairman, Datuk Yogeesvaran, met with the MTCC management and staff during his visit to the office. He was briefed by (first from right) MTCC CEO Mr Yong Teng Koon on the organisation and the MTCS certification scheme that the association operates

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

12 MARKET REPORT

BENEFITING FROM JAPANESE PLYWOOD MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGIES (PART 1) Written by Roman Komarov, Sveza Verhnaya Sinyachiha from Lesnaya Industriya

In the first half of this article, we look into how Sveza Verhnaya Sinyachiha mill from Russia derive improved results from the Japanese lean manufacturing system as well as using Japanese manufacturing organisation methods to re-organise and optimise operations at business process management levels.

S

ince lean manufacturing system

for the furniture industry came to a

resulted in the price of particleboard

was implemented at the Sveza

standstill.

failing to rise to expected levels after taking into account the investment

Verhnaya Sinyachiha mill, the

company managed to reduce the amount

Gennady Sokolov, acting director of Sveza

made in the production line construction

of products failing to meet clients’

Verhnaya Sinyachiha mill, explained,

project. The company, therefore, had

requirements by 2.5 per cent. This is a

“The manufacturing facilities are allowed

to suspend the project in 2015 and

timely move as there are plans for the mill

to do this – we had sufficient land

subsequently completely abandon it.

to increase plywood production volume

area. Besides, the plywood production

Considerable costs were avoided as the

by 10 per cent.

waste could have been used as a raw

equipment had not been purchased.”

material for particleboard production.

After abandoning the particleboard

When the rouble depreciated in 2015,

However, unlike plywood, the price of

project, the company focused on plywood

Sveza had to suspend a 10 million

particleboards sold locally was expected

production. In 2017, plywood production

roubles (US$160,750) investment

to increase slower than the price of

reached approximately 200,000 m 3.

project for a particleboard production

raw material. Also, the equipment used

Production is projected to increase by

line at the Sveza Verhnaya Sinyachiha

was mainly imported and required hard

10 per cent in 2018 to 220,000 m3, and

mill while plans to produce particleboards

currency. The rouble depreciation, thus,

by 15 per cent in 2020 to 230,000 m3.

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

MARKET REPORT 13 USING THE LEAN MANUFACTURING SYSTEM TO IMPROVE PERFORMANCE OF EMPLOYEES

organisation method, the mill’s employees

their character and their way of doing

not only had to change the accustomed

things”, he said. “That’s why there was

work organisation and procedures, but

no 'silent resistance’ or sabotage here,

their way of thinking as well. However,

even when all other innovations were met

Meanwhile, the mill commenced on a

it turned out that despite the difference

with hostility. Yes, there was a healthy

joint project with Toyota Engineering

in mindset, the Russian and Japanese

skepticism, but not to a sabotage level.

Corporation to implement a 5S (Sort,

cultures share many similarities - a

The employees believed in the success of

Set In Order, Shine, Standardise,

possible reason for the employees’ easy

the changes. And this served as a recipe

Sustain) lean manufacturing system

acceptance of the changes.

for success.”

“The Urals people are distinguished by

Having a suitable workplace organisation

based on a rational utilisation of inhouse resources. This means that every employee - from service personnel to director - shall optimise their functions in the overall operating process.

Sokolov shared, “First of all, we had to perform an initial audit of the company. For this purpose, we invited a representative of Toyota Engineering Corporation to rate the production performance of the company and the result was at just 1.09 out of 5 - a very low performance. We also invited him to provide his input. As a result of the audit, the company’s weak spots were identified and a remedial action plan was developed.”

The initial audit was first carried out in 2014. In 2015, the mill begun rolling out the lean manufacturing system.

Since then, the Japanese expert has been visiting the mill on a regular basis; meeting with employees, making recommendations and monitoring their implementation. Improvement was seen. Today, the mill’s performance is rated 2.79. “It was a significant progress for us," said Sokolov.

He added, “Our goal is to reach 3 points.

This is a performance rating of the best internationally recognised companies.

Such rating would provide us with additional capabilities in the plywood market.”

CHANGING OF MINDSETS IN A BID TO RE-ORGANISE THE WORKPLACE Using the Japanese manufacturing

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

14 MARKET REPORT was a starting point. The mill’s director

explained Sokolov. “And we have an

mill’s information system and provide

explained, “We never thought that

obligation to bring the occurrence of

informational self-services and analytics.

messy desks may impede the efficiency

fire to zero.”

Introduction of the SAP system allowed a

of the employees. Now each workplace

60 per cent reduction of operational time

has clear designated areas for working

While implementing the Japanese

tools, materials, etc. Each item has

lean manufacturing practice required

its own place.” The next step included

additional costs, the results fully

Sokolov said, “It is very difficult to

a visualisation of the results and

compensated the costs. For instance, the

evaluate the return on investment in

monitoring of the dynamics. Each shift's

percentage of products failing to meet

information systems. However, this

performance results were displayed at

the client’s requirements was reduced by

increases the business stability in general

an information board in the workshops

2.5 per cent. The general efficiency of the

and improves its manageability, which

on a daily basis. This allowed a graphical

equipment and production of high-quality

is important for a group of companies

demonstration of each employee's work

laminated products has also increased.

comprising of multiple production units.

and inspires them to improve their

across the mill.

When everyone works under single standards and all the business processes

High accident rate posed another

CENTRALISING THE INFORMATION SYSTEMS TO IMPROVE OPERATIONAL TIME

significant problem at the mill. However,

In January 2017, the SAP information

units operating in the same time, this

the number of occupational accident

system, based on the ERP process

elevates the business’ transparency.”

was reduced after the mill’s entrance

(Enterprise Resource Planning) was

was equipped with a non-contact alcohol

introduced at the mill. This system

The process of integrating the SAP

detector. The equipment was repainted,

integrated all sections of the company's

system was challenging - employees

and the path markings in the workshops

financial and management accounting,

had to adapt to working under new

are now regularly renewed. There were

personnel management, operation

conditions without backing the data in

also designated smoking areas. “We

activities and service functions.

the 1S system used previously. “All the

have a fire-hazardous production line,”

Ultimately, it was used to centralise the

employees accepted this global process

performance.

A plywood grade line at one of Sveza’s plywood mills

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

are harmonised, with indicators estimated by the same rules and all the production

MARKET REPORT 15 in a responsible manner,” remarked Sokolov. “We set up working

lathe. This costly investment allowed us to increase the mill’s

groups, with selected key users who then transferred their

capacity, reduce raw materials consumption and increase the

knowledge to the end users. It was very interesting to observe

cutting quality.”

how people acted during this time. Some showed more initiative and proposed interesting solutions.”

One of the mill’s important roles is increasing the allocation of raw material supply, because the existing wood supply from

Rewards in the form of tickets to the health complex is one of

wood cutting is insufficient. Currently the company plans to

the ways to motivate employees. Such approach proved itself. As

give priority to the implemented project that will allow a lease

a matter of fact, the mill is a township enterprise for Verhnaya

of forest areas in Sverdlovsk Region on preferential basis.

Sinyachiha -- over a thousand residents of the township are working in the production, while the mill’s staff number totals

IN THE FIELD

about 1200 persons.

Introduction of the 5S system will require from the company:

UPGRADING EQUIPMENT TO OPTIMISE THE LEAN MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

•

Arrangement of the initial audit to identify the “weak” spots

•

Involvement of all employees

•

Introduction of single operation standards

Concurrent with lean manufacturing system, the mill is undergoing a process of equipment upgrade. In the past five years, Sveza

Implementation of the lean manufacturing system will result

invested 1.6 billion roubles, or US$25.7 million, in the mill. In

in:

2017, the mill absorbed US$10.5 million (656 million roubles),

•

twice the amount of 2016. “We continuously improve the

Increase of production volume due to identification and Elimination of the “weak” spots

performance of the mill and expand our equipment,” shared

•

Reduction of substandard products volume

Sokolov. “In 2017, we commissioned a new veneer peeling

•

reduction of the number of occupational accidents ℗

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

16 MARKET REPORT

Bob Hsu, Sales Manager, Fancywood

VIETNAM: THE PLACE TO BE FOR THE WOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY Vietnam wood processing industry has been growing drastically, and with the U.S.-China tariff war, the country is set to see further growth. Bob Hsu, sales manager of Fancywood, shares his insight into the Vietnam wood industry.

Q:

Can you share with us about yourself and the history of

wooden products factory in the world.

Fancy Wood in Vietnam?

BH: Fancywood has been supplying to the furniture, flooring

Every month, we supply about 120 40-foot containers to

and building materials industries for more than 35 years.

the Vietnam market — mainly American and European

By the end of 1980, we were supplying more wood materials

hardwood lumber, logs and plywood. In fact, in the

to China and Southeast Asia as where factories move, our

past decade, from 2008 to 2018, our volume to the

supply and service move. In fact, from the 1990s, Asia

V i e t n a m e s e m a r ke t i n c re a s e d b y m o re t h a n 3 0 0

has become the most important and biggest furniture and

per cent.

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

MARKET REPORT 17

Q:

What’s the current situation for Vietnam furniture and

flooring industries? Can you provide an update?

BH: It is very competitive now. As many new foreign and local

Veneer, laminate, and panels will also become more important, including plywood, MDF, and particleboard. The panels’ cost is mainly in logs, wood dust and transportation, with transportation

furniture factories have joined in the past few years, furniture

having the biggest percentage as compared to other materials.

production capacity has increased a lot. Currently, Vietnam’s

Currently, we do not see a shortage situation, but we do think

total production capacity is growing faster than the demand

that, in the future, the panels’ supply and price will often see big

because in 2017 and 2018, many companies expanded their

and sensitive changes.

manufacturing facility and most of them are running at only 60 to 70 per cent of their capacity. But this is only short term as they

Q:

have yet to receive enough furniture orders for their full capacity.

Vietnam will benefit from it?

With the U.S.-China tariff war happening, how do you think

We believe that in the near future, Vietnam will become a very

BH: In the past few months, the U.S. and China trade war

important home-living and furniture manufacturer in the world.

started, which will lead to the U.S. purchasing lesser from China,

Worldwide orders will come to Vietnam very soon as you can’t

and China buying less wood materials from the U.S..

find a better place in Asia than here for furniture production.

Q:

This, I believe, will benefit Vietnam as the country does not Do you think the Vietnamese furniture manufacturers are

have any tariff block with both countries so importing material

facing a shortage of wood materials? If so, can you elaborate

and exporting products will not be a problem. Vietnam not only

on the situation?

export furniture to the U.S., but has also started to export more

BH: Factories in Vietnam mainly use rubber wood, acacia and

to China about seven to eight years ago.

local species. It is hard to find a factory that completely doesn’t use local lumber.

With the higher tariff, I believe we will see two trends: 1) Chinese companies exporting through Vietnam or produce in Vietnam

Imported foreign species consumption has also increased day

and export to the U.S.. 2) American wood materials will come to

by day to satisfy the market needs. For example, factories were

Vietnam first for production of components or furniture before

using pine, spruce, beech and poplar lumber in 2003 to 2012

exporting to China.

(the year 2012 is due to the financial crisis in 2008, which has hurt many industries in the world. But Vietnam furniture industry

On a monthly average, Vietnam exports more than 15,000

has grown a lot after the crisis). Later on, factories started to

containers to the U.S.. In fact, with the U.S.-China trade war,

buy higher-priced species for high-end furniture such as white

there is a potential to hit 30,000 containers when the American

oak, walnut, hard maple, birch, red oak and ash. Hence, we do

buyers start to move orders to Vietnam from China. This would

not think the shortage will be a problem.

then lead to expansion of manufacturing facilites and growing the industry further.

On rubberwood and local species, China initially purchased a lot of rubber wood lumber and raw materials, which has vastly

In additon, in the past two years, the Chinese government

influenced rubberwood price. But now, the country is buying

has been imposing higher environmental standards, hence,

more semi-finished components or finished products from

many factories are unable to survive in China and are moving

Vietnam, which makes rubberwood an inside-market product

to Vietnam to buy components or finished products, build a

(and less impact from the outside). Let the market decides the

relationship with the Vietnamese furniture manufacturers (OEM

supply, demand and price: When a species’ price is too high,

for the Chinese market), and to invest in factories to produce

factories will buy other species, hence, less shortage problem.

in Vietnam.

Foreign species have become very important as there is a

As environmental policies are non-negotiable, it speeds up the

demand from overseas and local customers. Vietnam furniture

industry drain. In the near future, I believe that the U.S.-China

industry is moving forward drastically unlike 15 years ago where

tariff war will magnify the importance of Vietnam-made products.

they focus only on cheap and basic typed of products. Now there

The biggest trade in the world is between U.S. and China, and

is huge need aross the globe for luxury finishing, popular species,

Vietnam is currently at an advantage in the 4Ps and 4Cs along

special design, different selling channels, styles and countries.

with its strong relationship with both countries. ℗

The foreign species demand will increase faster than before.

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

18 MARKET REPORT

THE VIETNAM WOOD INDUSTRY MONITORING AS U.S.-CHINA T R A D E WA R E S C A L AT E S As trade tension escalates between the U.S. and China, timber and wood products a re l i ke l y b e t a xe d a n d V i e t n a m ' s w o o d i n d u st r y i s ke e p i n g a c l o s e w atc h .

T

he trade war between the U.S. and

comes into effect, just under 50 per cent

Quyền said right now, export numbers

China officially started on 6 July

of all Chinese imports would be imposed

to the U.S. market remain stable and

after the U.S. started imposing a

with tariffs.

exporters had signed orders for this year.

of Chinese machineries, electronics,

Wood products that will face duties

Huỳnh Quang Thanh, chairman of

and high-tech equipment imports. The

include oak, beech, maple, ash, cherry,

Bình Dương Furniture Association

Chinese government reacted immediately

mouldings, rods, particleboard, various

cum chairman of Hiệp Long Furniture

with matching tariffs on the same amount

types of plywood, doors, charcoal, corks

Company, said that trade tensions

of U.S. exports to China.

and stoppers, as well as wicker and

between the U.S. and China would not

bamboo baskets.

have an immediate impact on the export

25 per cent duty on US$34 billion worth

activities of Vietnam in general and

The Trump administration also announced that they will slap a 10 per cent tariffs

Furniture items include bedding,

particularly, the furniture industry of

on additional US$200 billion worth of

mattresses, car seats, wooden chairs,

Bình Dương.

Chinese goods which could take effect

furniture designed for offices, kitchens,

after public consultations end on August

chandeliers and lamps. Wood pulp

30, according to a statement from the US

products and paper products are also

Trade Representative's office on July 10.

on the list.

ECONOMIST: VIETNAM CAN GAIN FROM THE U.S.-CHINA TRADE WAR As reported by The Voice of Vietnam,

The list of thousands of Chinese imports to be hit with the tariffs includes hundreds

The proposed tariffs would be on top of

Professor Pham Tat Thang, senior

of food products, raw materials and

the 25 per cent tariffs that the Trump

researcher at the Trade Research

consumer goods such as wood products

administration has already implemented

Institute at the Ministry of Industry and

and furniture.

on US$50 billion of Chinese goods: $34

Trade, held the opinion that no one will

billion of which already took effect on

win in the U.S.-China trade war, neither

LATEST UPDATE ON THE TRADE WAR

July 6.

the two nations involved nor the world’s

The latest update on August 16, though,

A s V i e t n a m N e w s re p o r t e d , t h e

it is ready to take full advantage of the

saw the U.S and Chinese governments

Association of Vietnam Timber and

situation.

announcing lower-level trade talks on

Forest Product (Vietfores) and timber

the 22nd and 23rd of August to work on

exporters said that close monitoring is

The tariff war is a threat to the global

resolving the trade war. A nine-member

necessary in order to respond and take

economy as it goes against the global

delegation from Beijing, led by Vice

measures actively.

trend towards trade liberalisation while

economy, but Vietnam can still benefit if

triggering escalating protectionism.

Commerce Minister Wang Shouwen, will hold meetings with U.S. officials led

Nguyễn Tôn Quyền, vice chairman of

It can result in a global economic

by the Treasury undersecretary, David

Vietfores, said that the export value of

slowdown, Thang explained.

Malpass.

Vietnamese wood products to the U.S. market is relatively high- accounting for

Chinese products and projects will not be

The list is massive and includes industrial

30 per cent of the total forest export in

allowed to enter into the U.S. like before

goods and chemicals, consumer

the first six months of 2018, or US$4.4

so Chinese government and enterprises

products, and wood products. If the list

billion.

are likely to find alternatives for them

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

MARKET REPORT 19 in neighbouring markets like Vietnam,

faking that their products are originated

Vietnam’s trade deficit with China was

he noted.

in Vietnam, he said.

US$23.3 billion, down 17.4 per cent.

As Chinese exports decline, reducing its

The economist urged Vietnamese

The U.S. was third in bilateral trade with

liquidity, demand for imports in China will

enterprises to be aware of technical

Vietnam with US$50.7 billion, of which

also fall. Coupled with China’s escalation

trade barriers in each foreign market,

export values reached the highest level

of trade barriers, it may hurt Vietnam’s

keep updated in related regulations

of US$41.5 billion, a year-on-year growth

exports to neighbouring countries, which

and be ready to satisfy new

of 8 per cent, and import values stood at

have experienced a surge in recent years,

requirements, as well as cooperate

US$9.1 billion, up 4.9 per cent. ℗

explained the researcher.

to help protect each other in order to survive the wave of protectionism in the

However, Chinese products hit by high

global trade.

tariffs will lose their competitive edge in the U.S. and doors will open for similar

In 2017, China was the largest trade

goods from Vietnam. If Vietnam can take

partner of Vietnam. The bilateral trade

advantage of the situation, it can turn

between the two sides was estimated

challenges into opportunities.

at US$93.8 billion, of which exports to China totalled US$35.3 billion, up 60.6

But Thang warned that Chinese exporters

per cent year-on-year, and imports from

may find ways to disguise their origin of

China reached US$58.5 billion, up 16.9

goods to avoid the U.S. tariffs, perhaps by

per cent year-on-year.

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

W

oodworking machinery has

With the high cost of R&D investment and

always been regarded as

long period of return on investment in the

the “bottom land” of the

woodworking machinery manufacturing

intellectual property rights.

field, content of the intellectual property is often kept private due to the absence of

In Qingdao itself, the city of woodworking

patent protection, which infringers often

machinery in China, nearly 300 sanding

exploit upon.

machinery manufacturing companies had their research and development’s

So, how do infringements happen? Mr

(R&D) technologies leaked. And in

Jacky Chen from Union Brother (China)

Foshan, Shunde district, the “largest

Ltd. shed some light with two examples.

procurement market for woodworking

noun UK /in 'frind3.mәnt/ US /in 'frind3.mәnt/ an action that breaks a rule, law, etc.

I N F R I N G E M E N T

20 SPECIAL REPORT

machinery”, research and development

The first is when competitors attract

results are copied by other companies in

technical personnel from the R&D

the industry. For the processing center,

company with high prices, which

at the core of the fierce competition,

becomes a black box. According to the

products are tagged as “low-end” due

different degrees of infringement, the

to plagiarism in large quantities.

people involved in such actions should bear civil liability or criminal liability.

So how do we define intellectual

However, it is difficult to sue for such

p ro p e r t y r i g h t s i n t h e f i e l d o f

infringements as the judicial protection of

woodworking machinery? How do we

intellectual property in China is unable to

define infringement? And how do you

keep up with the development of society;

protect your legal rights after being

especially when it comes to “obtaining

infringed?

evidence” — it is of great difficulty to obtain evidence required by the court.

REVERSE ENGINEERING VS INFRINGEMENT

The second type of infringement is

In the judicial interpretation, reverse

common in the industry: The technical

engineering refers to obtaining technical

management personnel of the R&D

information by dismantling, mapping and

company resigns and establishes his

analysing the products acquired through

own company after gaining access to

public channels of technical means.

core technical information — using

To note, “technical means” and “open

the very intellectual property rights

channels” are indispensable keywords,

to make profits of their own. In fact,

which, of course, should be based on

it is clearly stipulated by the law that

the precondition that the patent rights

technical achievements obtained through

are not infringed.

the support of the original company (funds, venues, etc.) do not belong

Whereas technical information of the

to the employed technical personnel.

company’s R&D that is not known to

Hence, it is illegal to claim the technical

the public is the trade secret of the

achievements as their own, which is an

company — comprising of working

infringement of the original company’s

principles, hardware and software

commercial secrets.

information that cannot be obtained particular is software, which is considered

THE LONG JOURNEY TO RIGHTS PROTECTION

a core secret as it often takes huge

Intellectual property is a concerned topic

amount of time and financial costs to

in the industry. It is of no exaggeration

develop the programmes and source

to say that the eye-catching pioneering

code.

works at the Milan Furniture Fair that

t h ro u g h re ve rs e e n g i n e e r i n g . I n

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

SPECIAL REPORT 21 has just ended in April will surely see

after leaving the company. Usage of

traditional industry with a rich heritage.

similarities at the Shanghai Furniture

technical information such as drawings

What cannot be ignored is that illegal

Fair in September. With the constant

and software of the original company are

activities occur because there is a

p l a g i a r i s m , d e s i g n e rs a re u n d e r

also not allowed without permission.”

market for it. In this battle of intellectual

pressured to continuously launch new

property, the purchaser buying from the

ideas at a faster speed in order to lead the

All R&D projects have a complete process

company that plagiarises also bears a

trend and maintain professional vitality.

and cycle. Once a legal dispute arises,

responsibility. Do remember that quality

the technical expert team will compare

is proportionate to the price in the

However, the R&D cycle in the equipment

the source code or drawings of the

market; just as one cannot buy a genuine

manufacturing industry is long and often

original company and the alleged illegal

Louis Vuitton bag with 200 Chinese yuan.

leads to high costs with low returns,

organisation before the truth is known.

which makes infringement particularly hateful.

As China transforms from a manufacturing Enterprises should also learn to protect

to an innovative country, there is a

their research results through legal means

need to create a positive innovation

Mr Chen touched upon the intellectual

while employees should consciously

environment for the manufacturing

property rights as Union Brother (China)

do right things. More importantly,

industry and protect the interests of the

Ltd. has embarked on the road to rights

organisations which plagiarised need to

innovative groups.

protection since 2012. Through the

be made aware of the baneful influence

years, the process of obtaining evidence,

their behaviours have caused to the

Enterprises protecting their own

prosecution, collecting evidence,

industry and society, and to stop doing

intellectual property rights should not

appealing, and claiming has made him

the wrong thing.

ignore the demands of their employee

vigilant on the issue of rights protection.

too. Instead, guide them towards the

NO WINNING SIDES

correct values, legal concepts and

However, not all companies can fight

Union Brother (China) Ltd. is lucky.

entrepreneurial ways.

against infringement till the end with

Afterall, only about 10 per cent of the

much patience, time and economic

intellectual property rights cases in the

There is also no need for companies to

cost. What infringement hurts far more

manufacturing industry in China have

feel discouraged if they had experienced

than the intellectual property itself, is

won — many of which are politically

or are experiencing infringement. It is

the company’s enthusiasm for R&D.

state-owned enterprises.

an inevitable path and pain that exist

According to a Chinese idiom, “Spare the

in the development of any industry.

rat to save the dishes", it is a metaphor

But on the other hand, Union Brother

What matters most is to move ahead

of holding back from taking action due

(China) Ltd. is also unfortunate. A lot

with a forward-looking outlook, create

to the fear of injuring others.

of time and money were spent, which

high-quality products that are cost-

have affected customer resources and

effective, and offset the harmfulness of

On top of the investment on R&D, the

market share. The enterprises which

infringement with better technological

company would also need to spend twice

are affected and unable to maintain

innovation. Lay down preventions, argue

as much energy and financial resources

the legal rights indicate a weak legal

with reason, defend rights legally, and

to fight against infringement while the

consciousness of the law-breakers; the

pursue innovation. If life is all about

plagiarised companies, which came

innocent downstream purchaser who is

choices, choose seriously to create a

“along for the ride” obtain high profits

involved; and the innovation development

better future through diligence and

at low cost through infringement. Hence,

of the entire carpentry and furniture

wisdom. ℗

at the end of day, what is impacted is the

manufacturing industry, which has been

innovation level of the entire industry.

severely dragged.

Mr Chen said, “Appropriate legal

The rapid development of China today

education is necessary for both business

has created many myths of being rich

owners and employees. For example,

overnight. It is easy for people to lose

it should be stipulated in the labour

themselves in the illusion and do illegal

contract that employees should not

things to pursue their own economic

engage in R&D work similar to the

interests. Being impetuous is the greatest

original company for at least two years

enemy in the woodworking industry — a

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

22 PANELS MANUFACTURING

Peter Fitch, managing director of Segamat Panel Boards, shares how the company aims to be the pre-eminent and top-of-mind supplier for quality thin panel raw MDF and semi-finished MDF across the globe.

E

stablished in 2002, Segamat Panel Boards Sdn Bhd (SPB) is located in Johor, Malaysia.

As a manufacturer of premium quality thin panels MDF (mediumdensity fiberboard) from 1.5mm to 6mm, SPB also provides different variants of the boards from the normal E2 to the low formaldehyde F4 star, as well as offering cut-to-size boards for its customers.

The move was to “become a bespoke producer of MDF,” said Peter Fitch, managing director of SPB. The recent acquisition of UC Gravure, a supplier to SPB for the paper foil of their lamination, has the company expanding and providing added value products such as paper-overlaid MDF; prime-coated MDF for door skin panels; UV cured-coated panels, which include the high-glossed UV panels; and deep-moulded door skin. And this is on top of

Peter Fitch, Managing Director of Segamat Panel Boards

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

PANELS MANUFACTURING 23 developing UC Gravure as a separate independent business.

UC Gravure has become a quality supplier of printed foils for the lamination of wooden panels. For the past 12 months, SPB has invested heavily in research & development to offer "3D prints", new print designs and harder more resistant coatings.

DIFFERENTIATING ITSELF Malaysia is currently the biggest market for SPB — taking up about 40 per cent of the market sales, but this was not the case a few years ago.

An aerial view of Segamat Panel Boards

“If you were to ask us three or four years ago, the Malaysian market was probably

of doing business when you look at big

less than 20 per cent. So it has more than

companies like Amazon and Alibaba, but

doubled, and that’s because of the added

there's still that niche for personal touch

At the end of the day, the people that supply

value products that we're trying to sell into

and personal relationship. It’s a little bit

the material are really only interested

the market,” said Fitch.

old fashion, but still important in some

in one thing, and that's the price. Our

businesses.”

volume is not big. We only need about 400

Although the domestic market is the

to ensure consistent supply.

tonnes of materials a day. So as long as

biggest, the portfolio of SPB is a diverse

He also believes that people are the

we can get that 400 tonnes of materials,

one — with about 10 per cent to Japan,

company’s greatest asset, which is in line

we will ensure a competitive price,” said

eight per cent to Pakistan and Saudi

with the company’s mission statement,

Fitch.

Arabia, and many more countries across

“To manage, arrange, organise and

the globe including Australia, India,

empower staff to achieve the Company’s

But despite the limited supply and pricing,

USA, Jordan, Lebanon, UAE, Taiwan and

Vision. This must be done collectively,

the panels industry in Southeast Asia

Vietnam. The company also focuses on a

as a team to optimise the effectiveness

region is “doing fantastically well,” said

unique business model where it does not

of the resources available to the

Fitch.

sell to everybody.

management.”

“We try to limit ourselves to one customer

With a committed and enthusiastic team,

90s has been phenomenal. “I think we're

that we trust and develop a relationship

SPB customers’ needs are always met as

reaching on par with Europe in terms

with them so they have exclusivity for our

the team is always alert to the needs of

of quality. That's why I don't know the

products. We are looking at long term

the industry while delivering quality

reasons why Southeast Asian MDF is so

partnerships,” said Fitch. “All of this is

services.

cheap. Perhaps we are becoming a victim

Growth within the industry since the early

related to the people and the culture, and

of our own success,” said Fitch.

how we try to differentiate ourselves from

OF SOUTHEAST ASIA

everybody else.”

Malaysia was the fourth largest producer

“ The European and Australasian

of MDF in the world about five years ago.

manufacturers will say, "Oh you're using

In fact, the longest relationship started

And recently, the Southeast Asian region

rubber wood." But there's nothing wrong

since day one, 16 years ago.

has been facing a dwindling supply of

with rubber wood. Okay, you have the

sustainable raw material.

issue with latex spot, but technology

“I personally know some of the customers

now takes out the latex spot and rubber

much longer — more than 20 years. We

“In terms of the supply, there's only one

wood is actually a very good substrate

are basically old friends,” explained Fitch.

way we can try to overcome this — and this

to use for panel products. Furthermore,

“You may say it's an old fashion way

is to work with the rubberwood suppliers

it is a sustainable plantation species.

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

24 PANELS MANUFACTURING The Thai’s, Indonesian’s, Vietnamese’s

when not if,” said Fitch.

and Malaysian’s MDF and particleboards are some of the best in the world. And

ON MMMA AND APMA

rightfully so,” he added.

As chairman of MMMA (Malaysian MDF Manufacturers Association), work

Fitch also went on to explain that Malaysia

is never-ending for Fitch to promote

has reached its peak supply and is on a

the interest of Malaysian manufacturers

slight decline; passing the growth baton

a n d e x p o r te rs o f M D F p ro d u c t s

to Thailand.

including lobbying the government and the agencies on points of interests in the

“Maybe in 10 years' time, they [Thailand]

industry.

have to pass on the baton to Indonesia.

It goes around. What follows for Malaysia

“A lot of people have a misconception

now is more value-added products.

that we talk about the market, prices and

There's nothing wrong with that,” he

stuff like that. We absolutely don't,” said

explained.

Fitch. “We look at the common ground like legislation with Malaysian Timber

“It's how you adapt. Whether you like it

Industry Board (MTIB), Malaysian Timber

or not you have to adapt. The world is not

Council (MTC) and other associations.

going to change for you.”

My job is more of a PR (public relations) between the industry and the government

Fitch also believes that Myanmar holds

agencies, and also tries to make sure

a big untapped opportunity despite its

there is a certain amount of cooperation

tough political and business climates. “It

between the Malaysian manufacturers. We

is very tough. But that does not mean it's

try to be cordial as opposed to competitive

not going to happen. It's just a matter of

enemies.”

Since taking over the company, SPB has invested heavily in research & development to off "3D prints", new print designs and harder more resistant coatings

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

Established in 2002, Segamat Panel Boards Sdn Bhd (SPB) is located in Segamat, north Johor of Malaysia

PANELS MANUFACTURING 25 Recently, Fitch was also appointed as

or specifically rubber wood MDF. To take it

chairman of the APMA (Asia Pacific

out of this perceived low quality, low price

MDF Exporters Association), which

and cheap-typed of product, and make

includes manufacturers in Indonesian

it more of a branded value proposition

and Thailand.

to compete with the Australian pine and European pine,” said Fitch.

And with his tenure, he aims to include Vietnamese manufacturers as they are

With running a company and heading

currently not part of the Association.

two Associations under his belt, a huge amount of effort and time is needed.

“I want to make the Association such

But Fitch believes that “Where there is a

that we have a strong Southeast Asian

will, there will always be a way”. Hence,

connection,” emphasised Fitch. “And

customers and members can be assured

then, maybe try to brand Southeast Asia

that quality improvements and excellent

to compete with the Australasian and

service will always be rendered.

European MDF.” “That's what we aim to do,” said Fitch. ℗ As the image of rubber wood is regarded not on par with pine, “I want to create some brand awareness for Southeast Asia

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

26 FURNITURE MANUFACTURING

GROWTH THANKS TO SMART INVESTMENTS ince opening its doors 31 years

S

A NEED FOR INNOVATION

and increase productivity is through high

ago, Sen Wan Timber (Senwan)

In this modern era of technology, the

tech machines; in particular automation

has grown to become one

companies’ leaders believe in combining

solutions and intelligent software.”

of Singapore's largest suppliers of

their proprietary skills and knowhow

timber, plywood, and a range of

with technologies to deliver high quality

In order to get the right support, Senwan

other products to various local

furnishing materials and services to their

teamed up with HOMAG Asia and invested

industries including construction,

customers. About five years ago, Chan

in new machinery and software. Since

marine, furniture and interior fit-outs

began to consider innovations that could

then, the business has been growing and

and engineering.

carry the business forward.

further expansion is planned.

And in the midst of it all is Ashton Chan,

“You either invest in new technology or

Chan currently owns a BHX 050 drilling

who belongs to the second-generation

you leave it and lose out,” said Chan.

centre, a panel saw HPP300, a sanding

leaders that has joined his parents who

“Singapore has a massive labour issue and

machine SWT 935 profiline and two

founded the business.

land is expensive. The only way to excel

Ambition edge banders (now CENTATEQ, SAWTEQ and SANDTEQ) which he said, “has led to an improvement in quality and productivity.”

WOODCAD|CAM SOFTWARE: KEY FOR CUSTOMISED JOBS As a result of the conscious effort to expand their business value chain vertically, in addition to being a raw materials supplier, Senwan provides a one-stop solution to customers for their residential and commercial construction projects — fabricating built-in furniture and fittings based on their project requirements.

Not long ago, when he started to furnish newly constructed condominiums, Chan realised he would need a smart solution to deal with the increasing demand for customised furniture that is fast to fabricate, high in quality and competitively priced. That was when he started to seriously look into automation technology and decided to invest in amongst others, HOMAG’s woodCADCAM software (WCC).

The software allows him to parametrically 3D design a high variety of cabinets.

Ashton Chan, second-generation leader for Sen Wan Timber

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

Thanks to the power of variables, users

FURNITURE MANUFACTURING 27

“You either invest in new technology or you leave it and lose out,” said Chan

are able to create and modify any cabinet or unit very quickly. The WCC comes with the option of a customised library which can be modified anytime too.

NO INVESTMENT, NO GROWTH With HOMAG, Chan feels well looked after and, “As a result of my past experience using HOMAG machines and software, I have a very high level of confidence in HOMAG’s products and services.”

In contrast, there were times when he had had negative experiences while dealing with other machinery suppliers whom he feels tend to be fast in putting the blame on the customer for operation issues encountered.

“From HOMAG we get helpful service – and so far, we haven’t had a major breakdown yet.”

“I have spent a lot of time and effort getting used to the machines before I actually

In order to get the right support, Senwan teamed up with HOMAG Asia and invested in new machinery and software. Since then, the business has been growing and further expansion is planned

reap the benefits. In our relatively backwards trade, many companies don’t invest.

But without investments, there will be no growth or success,” he said.

INTELLIGENT FACTORY PLANNING After moving into their current and bigger premises about two years ago, Senwan started to plan for their next phase of growth and engaged HOMAG’s consulting service, Schuler, to provide suggestions in optimising factory space and production facilities for a potential future site. Senwan’s factory, located in Sungei Kadut in their own building, stand on a four-acres land with a highly efficient operation that employs up to 50 staff.

Looking forward, Chan is working on plans to expand to a new building and is keen to once again to partner with HOMAG on this journey. ℗

HOMAG BHX 050 drilling centre

28 FURNITURE MANUFACTURING

HUMBLE AND HIGHREACHING, LAM VIET DOES NOT SHY AWAY FROM RISKS A supplier of high-end furniture, Lam Viet is not afraid to forge its own path in this time of change in Vietnam’s furniture industry.

Europe and the United States, most of our teak are from Central America, and we source acacia domestically.”

THE COMPANY With 1,200 employees and a yearly revenue of US$25 million, Lam Viet has been producing high-end furniture in its sprawling 60,000sqm establishment since 2002.

“I have wanted to make high-end furniture since day one. We cannot do low-end furniture because we use teak, and teak is expensive,” Mr Liem explained. “There was some difficulties in 2008 and 2009 during the financial crisis, and at that time, we had to find other customers who were not high-end and were maybe mediumhigh or medium-low. But now, we are back Mr Nguyen Liem, Chairman and Director of Lam Viet, in his furniture factory

M

to making high-end furniture.”

Today, Lam Viet exports their products

r Nguyen Liem, Chairman

Originally, Lam Viet only specialised

to some of the most expensive hardware

and Director of Lam Viet, is a

in outdoor furniture and got all their

stores in the United States, including

humble, yet opinionated man.

products approved by the Forest

Restoration Hardware and Four Hands.

Dynamic and iron-willed, he established

Stewardship Council (FSC). But as the

the company in 2002, and, after teaching

outdoor furniture market experienced

CHALLENGES

himself how to read and write English,

– and still experiences – high and low

Like many companies, Lam Viet faces a

quickly expanded operations, exporting

seasons, the company shifted some

labour shortage and rising labour costs

all his products to high-end stores in the

of their focus to indoor furniture, and

even as customers continue to pursue

United States and Europe.

presently specialises in both indoor and

high quality products at lower prices.

outdoor furniture.

“We export 100 per cent of our products

“Over the past two years, we have been

– 60 per cent goes to the United States,

“For outdoor furniture, we use teak and

changing and restructuring, and we have

and the remaining 40 per cent to Europe,”

acacia. For indoor furniture, we use oak,

also been trying to cut down on customers

he said. “We may expand to new markets

acacia, pine, and other species as well.

while also aiming for a higher volume of

in the future, but not yet as we are at our

But all our materials are FSC approved,”

orders. We are doing everything we can

full capacity.”

Mr Liem said. “We import the oak from

now, investing around five per cent of

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

Some challenges Lam Viet faces are the rising cost of labour as well as labour shortage

our yearly budget in new equipment and new technologies like UV and painting machines,” Mr Viet said.

“Labour costs are also increasing in Vietnam, though the level of efficiency is nowhere near China’s, so there will be a lot of work for us to do in order to improve and gain an advantage, which is why we are investing in machinery to improve the factory.

“With orders transitioning from China to

and with better quality. Machinery does

Unfortunately, that leads to another

Vietnam, it is important for us to invest

reduce labour, but the workers as well

challenge Mr Liem faces: Managing his

in new technology and equipment so

as management would need to improve.

workers.

that we can deliver on our orders in time

If the workers cannot use the machines properly, productivity would go down and the costs would rise as well,” he continued.

“Vietnam is perfectly positioned with numerous competitive advantages over other Asian countries, especially w i t h c e r t a i n m a r ke t e ve n t s t h at have taken, or are taking, place. But if Vietnam wants to take over China and the United States, the factories here would have to improve a lot, and invest more in machinery and human resources to increase the capacity to get orders from big customers so that they can push down the cost of the products. At the end of the day, it is higher productivity

Investing in machinery increases Lam Viet’s capacity while also pushing production costs down

at lower cost.”

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

30 FURNITURE MANUFACTURING

BIFA WOOD VIETNAM With BIFA Wood Vietnam 2018 coming soon to Vietnam, Mr Liem may have just found a place in which to find machinery suitable for his company, having found that woodworking machinery companies in Vietnam still have a long way to go before reaching the calibre of those from Italy and Germany.

“We will certainly visit the show, and hopefully we will be able to find the machinery and technology we need there. The show coming to Binh Duong means that it’s far more convenient than flying to other countries,” he added enthusiastically.

“Vietnam is the future of the wood processing industry, and our goal is to have a brand new factory with more machines and automation, with more technology.”

Mr Liem conducting an inspection in his factory

THE FUTURE

But there is one area in which Lam Viet does not have any issues

Five years ago, Lam Viet catered to small buyers rather than the

with – its supply of materials.

large few they do now, and had no reason to spend on big, highvolume machinery or expensive equipment.

“A lot of new forests have been planted in the United States, so in the future, there will be no issues with our supply of red oak or

But today, as Mr Liem continues looking to the future, spying trends

white oak,” Mr Liem elaborated. “There is also teak in Vietnam,

and preparing his company, many things weigh heavily on his mind.

though there isn’t much in terms of quantity and quality isn’t that good – in fact, we import around 98 per cent of our teak from

“In my opinion, the trend – which will affect many European and

Central America, so we don’t have a problem there either. And

American buyers – is that they have been moving their orders

because there are so many acacia plantations in Central Vietnam,

from China to Asian countries, and it’s been growing consistently

we buy our acacia domestically.”

over the past two to three years as factories in the United States have a tax of 45 per cent as compared to the zero per cent in

As for the labour shortage, Mr Liem has been addressing the

Vietnam,” he explained.

issue by investing in human resources and educating workers on operating the machinery he has been bringing in. Though a

“Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, they don’t have enough

clear budget has not been set aside, the amount of money Mr

potential right now to raise their volume of products. Malaysia

Liem has pumped into the programme is substantial.

does, they have the industry and the technology, but labour cost there is high and many of our customers have moved to us from

“When we realised that we needed to invest in human resources,

Malaysia. I think because of these factors, Vietnam has a huge

over six to seven years, my sons built and implemented enterprise

competitive advantage. And because of that, I think there will be

resource planning (ERP) for Lam Viet, continuously training our

10 to 15 per cent of growth in Vietnamese exports over the next

employees,” Mr Liem explained.

five years.” ℗

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

IN PERSON 31

TAKING THAILAND'S WOOD INDUSTRY IN HIS STRIDE Having navigated through the ebbs and flows of Thailand's wood industry for close to three decades, Jirawat Tangkijngamwong has razor sharp industry insights and a candid take on the Thai way of doing things.

At 11 years, Jirawat is currently the longest serving chairman of Thai Timber Association, he is also the deputy managing director of Deesawat Industries and chairman of Deesawat.

Founded in 1972, Deesawat is a pioneer and leader in today’s Thai wooden furniture industry.

We re c e n t l y h a v e t h e chance to pick his brain and hear what he has to say about Thailand’s wood manufacturing industry as well as the ongoing U.S. China tariff war.

Jirawat Tangkijngamwong, Chairman of Thai Timber Association.

32 IN PERSON ON THAILAND’S WOODEN FURNITURE MARKET

International tourist arrival numbers are

Another reason for the lacklustre export

indeed showing no sign of slowing, rising

market points towards the happy-go-lucky

Currently, Thailand’s domestic furniture

8.8 per cent in 2017 to a record 35.38

nature of the Thais. As an outsider, one

market is twice the size of its export

million, according to Ministry of Tourism

can’t help but grin upon hearing Jirawat

market due to its booming tourism

and Sports.

self-deprecatingly describe his countrymen as more “relaxed, laisse faire, calm,…Thai

industry. According to Jirawat, annual wooden furniture exports are valued at

“Thailand is a tourism hub, so we have

style”, yet he did not present such trait as

approximately US$1.2 billion, while the

a sizeable population. Actually, we have

weakness, it is simply about understanding

local market is triple the size at around

about 70 million people, the amount of

the market and playing according to

US$3 billion dollars.

tourist coming in is equivalent to half of

strengths.

our population. So, everything is for the Jirawat offered his take: “For export, we

tourists— hotels, restaurants, hospitality

The more laid-back Thai culture is probably

are stable at roughly US$3 billion of wood

market, new houses and condominiums…

the reason why creativity is allowed to truly

products a year. We don’t have much

Because of the booming local market,

flourish and Thai furniture designers and

increase because the Thais aren’t eager

the Thai don’t care about export, they

craftsmen are well-known for their modern

to export. They want to concentrate on

want to focus on the domestic market,”

and functional designs. And Jirawat

the domestic market.”

he said.

knew that too well, “The strength of Thai

Thailand Furniture Market at a glance

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

IN PERSON 33 Thailand’s wood products export market at a glance

furniture sector is in design, we are quite

hospitality market as the retail sector is

“Malaysia is more industrialised and they

a creative nation, our designers are very

already crowded with tight competition

can enjoy competitive pricing. Thailand

strong and we try to create a niche in a

from China and Malaysia. Armed with only

goes the other way, we try to be crafty

sector that nobody is quite interested in.”

smaller factories, the hospitality market is

and go for smaller scale production to

a good match for Thai furniture market as

enjoy the higher price. Indonesia is also

their factories can provide customisation,

very crafty but the difference is that

offering designs and dimensions

Indonesian wood craft is very organic and

specifically to their customers’ needs.

cultural related, while Thai wood craft is

CREATING A NICHE IN THE OVERSEAS HOSPITALITY MARKET

very modernised, it suits the taste of the

This niche lies in the overseas hospitality market. Jirawat pointed out that Thailand

Analysing Thailand’s competitors,

urban population. That is our difference

is currently targeting the overseas

Malaysia and Indonesia, Jirawat remarked:

in design development.”

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

34 IN PERSON ON THAILAND’S WOOD MANUFACTURING MARKET

Thailand’s imported wood market at a glance

Rubber wood is the only timber that Thailand exports now as logging has been banned for many years. It is also considered as agricultural produce since it falls under the agricultural category, not forestry. Rubber wood is not popular with the Thais, but sees high demand from China. “Rubber wood is expensive to its value, but since China knows how to make value out of it, be my guest,” remarked Jirawat.

To manufacture wood furniture, Thailand has to import the raw materials and process them. This is where furniture manufacturers face a roadblock due to outdated wood processing machinery.

Jirawat said frankly, “Machineries in Thailand’s factories are old and not very updated, we are still developing our industry. It has been a while since we have had a fair, I see it as a chance to reverse the situation in Thailand’s timber industry.”

T h e re a re c u r re n t l y a b o u t 8 0 0 0 enterprises under registration, of which approximately only 2500 are factories.

It is therefore a very focused group and products manufactured range from

worth of goods a year. In particular, wood

comfortable with the status quo as the

smaller scale manufacturing like wood

products such as wood pallets and rubber

domestic market is substantial enough

machineries, handicraft, to the large-

wood are increasing drastically.

to support them.

Wood product exports, though, is like an

Jirawat’s diagnosis of Thailand's timber

unpolished gem. Jirawat does not think

industry is that it is healthy enough to

According to Jirawat, Thailand also

that the Thai enterprises had not tried

sustain itself but the language barrier is

has one of the largest panel board

to increase exports, rather, they simply

an additional challenge that is stopping

factories in the region, allowing for

follow the market.

Thai companies from pushing themselves

scale ones like panels manufacturing and raw materials processing.

the development of the panel furniture

harder to get out of Thailand and explore

sector, with sufficient supply for domestic

“If the local market is selling better, they

consumption and exporting overseas to

will naturally focus less on exports, that’s

furniture giants like IKEA.

why export figures have been stagnant

“Thailand may be a land of opportunities

last year. For furniture export, it didn’t

but unfortunately, Thai companies have

Wood products manufactured in Thailand

move much, about US$1 or 2 million in

not ventured out to seize them.”

has also been rising, amounting to

growth in recent years.”

around US$2.4 billion. In addition to

new markets.

“For example, I have been attending a

wood related products and furniture

Language also poses as a barrier for

furniture show in China for some years.

export, the wood manufacturing industry

the Thais to venture out. The Thais do

In the past, I was the only one exhibiting

is producing approximately US$3.6 billion

not speak English, and they have grown

in China, but now, I see 30, 40 over

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

IN PERSON 35 companies from Malaysia exhibiting at

(SEA) countries will benefit from the U.S.-

on par with each other. But if you are

the same fair. Everyone came in a big

China trade war because of the cheaper

looking at low costs, then you may go

team and they are hungry to sell. Thai

labour SEA countries can offer.

to Vietnam.”

try. Because of a lack of aggressiveness

“China”, he said, “is shockingly expensive

“As for Cambodia or Myanmar, their

in their approach, they have been seen

right now, but they are still extremely

infrastructures are not up to standard

as slow. Also, they have to wait until

efficient. In the manufacturing scheme

yet. I have a factory in Myanmar, and it is

everything comes to their own country,

of things, they can still manufacture at

no dreamland. There is a blackout every

only then will they start to sell. They

a very competitive price. When Donald

day for two to three hours, the electricity

don’t go out to exhibit in trade fairs

Trump tries to impose the heavy levies on

is not there, the labour is very confusing

or approach the market to find new

China, they have to be mindful as China

and the rules and regulations are very

suppliers.”

will hit back. China can do exactly the

dependent on the authorities. That’s

same thing to the U.S. and they will find

why, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia

CHANGING THE MINDSET OF THAI COMPANIES

themselves sorry for making such a move.

cannot be ignored. They also have their

As the chairman of the Thai Timber

All these while, other Asian countries are

Association, Jirawat is taking steps to

observing every move because ultimately,

And that is why, Jirawat concluded, that

educate enterprises by firstly changing

there is an opportunity to move the

the trade war will benefit most ASEAN

their mindsets. “Thai companies need to

manufacturing to elsewhere in Southeast

countries. ℗

change the mindset that we don’t have

Asia. The number one choice will be

to be fixed with one raw material, or one

Vietnam, because of the cost.

people want to sell, but don’t want to

own domestic markets to enjoy.”

buyer or one seller, the whole world is a have to explore.”

THAILAND, MALAYSIA AND INDONESIA HOLD ATTRACTIVE CAPABILITIES

The Thai Timber Association has since

Meanwhile, one also cannot deny the

kick-started a programme to bring

attractiveness of Thailand, Malaysia and

members to Shanghai, among several

Indonesia, depending on which sector,

other places to visit trade fairs. So far,

Jirawat said.

market and holds new suppliers, but you

they had brought 15 Thai members to visit the Sylva Wood show this year and

He opined that Thailand productivity is

may also bring a group delegation to BIFA

still very high, compared to the cost in

Wood Vietnam this October.

investment and its stable situation.

U.S.- CHINA TRADE WAR WILL BRING OPPORTUNITIES TO SOUTHEAST ASIA

“Thailand is also for those who want to

The U.S. started imposing a 25 per cent

not have as big a domestic market as

duty on US$34 billion worth of Chinese

Thailand, they have to rely 100 per cent

imports early this July and the Chinese

on exports.”

enjoy the local domestic market and not rely on exports. Vietnam, of course, does

government retaliated immediately with matching tariffs.

“So while Thailand may not offer the cheapest prices, we can still offer

A 10 per cent tariffs on additional

something comfortable. We don’t boast

US$200 billion worth of Chinese goods

that we are the cheapest, it simply isn’t

is expected to take effect on August 30.

anymore. The growth rate in Vietnam now

Thousands of Chinese imports will be

is probably as high as China, and I think

slapped with the tariffs, including wood

prices will catch up with China soon.”

products and furniture.

“If you are looking at comfort level, Jirawat is optimistic that Southeast Asian

Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia are

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

36 MATERIALS

U.S. HARDWOOD LUMBER SUPPLY NOW AND THE FUTURE

By Judd Johnson, Hardwood Market Report

T

his article was written at the

U.S. hardwood lumber business in China

The faster the demand falls below supply,

end of July. Yes, that is early

has experienced both sides of supply

the greater the urgency for sellers to move inventory… at least initially.

for Panels & Furniture Asia’s

disparity in the past five years. There have

September/October publication date.

been volatile run ups in pricing due to

But the timing for writing the article was

shortages, and prices have plummeted on

THE FALLOUT

important because meaningful changes

distressed sales caused by abrupt order

The U.S. hardwood business is market

occurred this year that both increased

cancellations. But mostly, price movement

driven, therefore, supplies will conform

U.S. hardwood lumber production and

influenced by supply imbalances during

to demand. This is a certainty. What is

reduced the demand from the Chinese

this time has been moderate because

not known is how quickly supply can

marketplace. Complicating matters,

the imbalances themselves have been

regain a reasonable balance with demand.

further contraction in China’s demand

moderate.

This is important. The longer excessive inventories drag down prices, the more

for U.S. hardwoods seems possible at That may not be the case right now.

damage occurs to the supply grid.

Should demand for U.S. hardwood lumber

Eventually, the ability for U.S. hardwood

SUPPLY IMBALANCE

drops lower as some think is possible, it

sawmills to produce can be compromised.

A business downturn in any market or

would increase the supply inequity. The

market sector can disrupt a reasonable

greater the difference between supply and

Chances are you experienced this before.

balance with supply and, as a result,

demand, the greater the price pressure.

The U.S. hardwood supply grid had not

create challenges for suppliers. But a

The speed of change is another factor.

recovered from the 2007-2009 global

this moment too.

business downturn by the largest market has greater implications.

China is the largest market for U.S. hardwood lumber. In basic terms, China accounts for nearly 25 per cent of all U.S. hardwood grade lumber consumption.

When demand from China changes — either increases or decreases — it has substantial effects on supply balance.

Change in U.S. hardwood production can have the same influence on supply if it falls below or rises above demand significantly. However, impacts on kiln dried lumber supplies caused by sawmill production changes are not abrupt, whereas, effects from demand changes can be immediate.

Figure 1: In the two-year span from April 6, 2012 to April 18, 2014, prices published in Hardwood Market Report® for Appalachian kiln dried 4/4 Fas Red Oak jumped 71 per cent

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

MATERIALS 37 economic recession by 2012. As demand for U.S. hardwood lumber increased from China in 2012 through 2014, sawmill production capabilities were limited. Existing supply strains quickly turned into severe supply shortages. Lumber prices shot higher as a result. In the two-year span from April 6, 2012 to April 18, 2014, prices published in Hardwood Market Report® for Appalachian kiln dried 4/4 Fas Red Oak jumped 71 per cent (see Figure 1).

Such an increase within this short period of time was unsustainable. Nonetheless, buyers had to absorb higher prices until the U.S. hardwood supply grid and sawmill capabilities recovered.

IN THE END These extremes are unhealthy. Without profits, businesses

Figure 2: When supply imbalances exist, regardless of the reasons, market forces will prevail

cannot operate. Having sales prices too low jeopardises

When supply imbalances exist, regardless of the reasons, market

sawmills’ production capabilities and, therefore, long term

forces will prevail (see Figure 2). That said, one would be wise to

supply. Having sales prices too high invites competition from

remember Newton’s law of physics that states for every action,

products manufactured from other species, wood composites,

there is an equal and opposite reaction. Sharply lower demand

and non-wood materials. Here, too, the detrimental impacts

and prices for U.S. hardwood lumber can lead to reduced

can be lasting.

production capabilities and sharply higher prices for the future. ℗

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

38 MATERIALS

INTERCONNECTING, OVERLAPPING, INTERTWINING ‘MultiPly’ is a modular cross-laminated tulipwood pavilion comprising of a maze-like series of interconnected spaces that overlap and intertwine.

View of the structure looking out of the Blavatnik Hall into the courtyard.

Render credit: Forbes Massie

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

MATERIALS 39

W

augh Thistleton Architects, the

to be fun and playful. The labyrinthine

American Hardwood Export

spaces will lead visitors through a series

Council (AHEC) and ARUP

of stairs, corridors and open spaces —

are collaborating to present ‘MultiPly’,

inviting them to explore the potential of

a modular cross-laminated tulipwood

wood in architecture. In the evenings, with

pavilion, in the Sackler courtyard of the

subtle lighting, the pavilion will become a

Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in

quiet and contemplative space, allowing

London, UK, from September.

visitors to reflect on the beauty of its natural material.

MultiPly, one of the London Design Festival’s Landmark projects, comprises

According to Waugh, the structure will

of a maze-like series of interconnected

lead people on a merry dance up and

spaces that overlap and intertwine, will

down staircases and across bridges to

encourage visitors to re-think the way we

explore light and space. MultiPly has a

design and build homes and cities.

high level of permeability to allow views to the facade and courtyard, and to entice

The three-dimensional structure will be

viewers into the structure, so that they can

built out of a flexible system, made of 17

experience the new, carefully considered

modules of American tulipwood cross-

views to the existing heritage facades of

laminated timber (CLT) with digitally

the V&A.

fabricated joints.

Waugh Thistleton Architects has been Like a piece of flat-packed furniture, it

pioneering innovative uses of wood

will arrive as a kit of parts, which can be

in construction for decades. MultiPly

quickly and quietly assembled in under

explores a new, more sustainable way

a week. Since it is built out of modules,

of building, bringing together a readily

the pavilion can be taken apart and

available carbon-negative material —

reassembled in a new home after the

American tulipwood — with modular

London Design Festival.

design. The project follows on from AHEC’s work with many great architects

MultiPly confronts two of the current age’s

including David Adjaye, Amanda Levete,

biggest challenges — the dire need for

Alex de Rijke, Alison Brooks, and now

housing and the urgency to fight climate

Waugh Thistleton to demonstrate the

change while presenting the fusion

structural, aesthetic and environmental

of modular systems and sustainable

properties of American tulipwood CLT.

construction materials as a solution.

Carolina Bartram, project director of Arup “The main ambition of this project is

commented, “Continuing our exploration

to publicly debate how environmental

of hardwood CLT on installations such

challenges can be addressed through

as Endless Stair and The Smile, MultiPly

innovative, affordable construction,” said

provides a playful opportunity to

Andrew Waugh, co-founder of Waugh

experiment and innovate with this tactile

Thistleton. “We are at a crisis point in

and adaptable material. The seemingly

terms of both housing and CO2 emissions

simple series of stacked boxes are a

and we believe that building in a versatile,

complex engineering challenge, made

sustainable material such as tulipwood

more interesting by the fact the sculpture

is an important way of addressing these

sits on the newly completed, elegant

issues.”

Sackler Courtyard at the V&A. It is a privilege that as engineers for the Sackler

During the day, the nine-meter high

Courtyard, we are also contributing

American tulipwood installation promises

engineering designs for MultiPly.”

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

40 MATERIALS

1

2

3

4 1. Exploded visualisation of the components of the tulipwood CLT modules.

Image credit: Waugh Thistleton 2. Infographic demonstrating the life cycle of the structure.

Image credit: Waugh Thistleton 3. Scale model of the pavilion by Waugh Thistleton Architects.

Image credit: Waugh Thistleton 4. Sketch of the render from above.

Image credit: Waugh Thistleton

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

MATERIALS 41

Sketch of the render looking into the Sackler Courtyard from Exhibition road.

Image credit: Waugh Thistleton

CLT is an engineered timber that can be

rapid assembly, reducing construction

shown that the tulipwood is considerably

used to build walls and floors; making up

times by around 30 per cent.

stronger than spruce; it also has a

the structure of entire buildings. It has

superior appearance. We are positive

a layered construction with the wooden

“CLT is usually made of a softwood

that MultiPly will prove to be another

planks turned at right angles in each

trees. Together with Arup, AHEC started

great learning experience for us and a

successive layer, creating a panel with

a process of experimenting with CLT

unique story that will be serve as an

equal strength in both directions, similar

made from fast-grown North American

inspiration for anyone wanting to design

to plywood. Weight for weight, CLT is

tulipwood. The planks are imported from

with wood,” concluded Roderick Wiles,

stronger than steel and concrete and can

the USA but the panels themselves will

AHEC Regional Director. ℗

be machined to incredibly high tolerances.

be manufactured in the UK’s own fledging

This makes it ideal for prefabrication and

CLT factory in Scotland. Testing has PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

42 DESIGN

FINDING THE VOICE OF MURRAY RIVER: DESIGNING THE COBRAM LIBRARY AND LEARNING CENTRE

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

DESIGN 43

The Murray River and its surrounding landscapes have a special place in the hearts of the residents living in Cobram, Australia.

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

44 DESIGN

1

W

hen plans were drawn to

meetings helped drive a collaborative

“The use of timbers, in a variety of

construct the Cobram Library

and 'hands on' process.”

different ways, reflects the local Murray river gums. Use of different timbers

and Learning Centre several

years ago, it was decided that the local

At last, community stakeholders chose a

presented a dynamic way to filter

community must be involved. From

design language that is evocative of the

sunlight, and create an ever changing

the start, community stakeholders

popular Murray landscapes to represent

presence. There are wonderful examples

had an active hand in envisioning and

and celebrate the idea of a ‘local’ library.

of its use throughout the Murray region,” explained the architects.

building their library-to-be, including the conception of its unique design language.

The design process involved tracing the line of the nearby Murray River, then

THE ‘SPINE’ OF THE LIBRARY

Located on the site of the existing Civic

superimposing the line as the cut line

Guiding the central pathway is a ceiling

Centre, the Cobram Library and Learning

on a curvilinear timber battened screen

element which acts as a way-finding

Centre encompasses library spaces,

meant to be wrapped around the library’s

spine, traversing through the centre of

reading spaces, community spaces and

exterior.

the library space. At the edge of the ‘spine’, a series of abstract punctuation

new technology areas -- all in readiness for the digital age and flexible learning

The result is a dynamic façade which

around the perimeter subtly define

across all ages.

filters and directs light into the internal

private and flexible break out spaces. The

library spaces.

effect is a community space both highly

Speaking to Cohen Leigh Architects who

flexible and adaptable.

led the design, they remarked, “ From day

THE ROLE OF WOOD

one, it was paramount that the project

Wood is featured repetitively in the

As expressed by the architect, the 'spine'

be driven in close consultation with

façade and interior decorative elements

is a “parametric design” which too,

community stakeholders and groups.

where plywood and Maxi Edge Alpine

reflects the language and fluidity of the

Frequent community consultation

are used.

nearby Murray River. It is also a low-cost

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

DESIGN 45

2

3 CNC routed solution.

Names lined the edges of the ceiling panels, which belong to community individuals or donors who pledged support towards the project. “ This idea was generated through

1. The Cobram Library and Learning Centre is designed

by Cohen Leigh Architects, together with the local Cobram community, and a lot of love 2. A ceiling element which acts as a way-finding spine, traverse through the centre of the library space 3. At the edge of the ‘spine’, a series of abstract punctuation around the perimeter subtly define private and flexible break out spaces

community stakeholder discussions as a way of fundraising for the project - in the same way a 'plaque' often does, but multiplied across a larger scale,” said the architects.

In capturing and articulating the essence of the Murray River, a voice is borne out of love and ownership of its local community. And it can be heard and seen in the Cobram Library. *All images are credited to Cohen Leigh Architects.

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

46 DESIGN

Using parametric design tools, the Weijenberg team arrived at a visually powerful and materially efficient design — a sculpturally beautiful, yet practical solution

FLOW

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

DESIGN 47

AND

FLUIDITY

Weijenberg shows how to achieve flow and fluidity with new techniques, textures and forms.

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

48 DESIGN

D

esigned by Weijenberg, the office interior on the 50 th level of I.M. Pei-designed Bank of China building in

Central, Hong Kong, is the second project the architectural firm is designing for an online

betting company in China. The look and feel of this workspace interior follows the previous project in Shenzhen, while exploring new techniques, textures and forms.

Weijenberg is a boutique design and architecture firm based in Singapore with an international portfolio that features crafted bespoke pieces,

1

private design projects and commercial ventures Taken from the nature of money flows in the online betting business and spatially interpreted in wood and marble, flow and fluidity are the core principles of the forms adopted in both projects. In Hong Kong, a ribbon-like wooden form wraps and flows through the space, across walls, furniture and ceilings — creating quiet spaces and framing the spectacular views of the harbour and Kowloon Bay. Using parametric design tools, the Weijenberg

1. A ribbon-like wooden form wraps and flows through the space, across walls, furniture and ceilings — creating quiet spaces and framing the spectacular views of the harbour and Kowloon Bay 2. The wooden forms are transported from China to Hong Kong where they are being put together piece-by-piece on site 3. Taken from the nature of money flows in the online betting business and spatially interpreted in wood and marble, flow and fluidity are the core principles of the forms adopted All images are credited to Weijenberg.

team arrived at a visually powerful and materially efficient design — a sculpturally beautiful, yet practical solution.

3

The walls and seats are fabricated from ash wood in a material-saving process that involves gluing together smaller square-sections before CNC milling the final shape. Five-axes CNC robots are used to fabricate the wooden form in sections in a workshop in Nantong, China.

These are then transported to Hong Kong where they are being put together piece-by-piece on site. The reception counter and tables are machine-sculpted from white marble, quarried from Quyang in Hebei Province, China.

With that, the firm has managed to achieve its signature aesthetic — ‘Crafting the Traditional’ — a modern yet classic outlook on design that is functional yet complement the elements surrounding its environment. ℗

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

2

50 STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS

A HERMAN MILLER INSPIRATION ▼

The 20m by 7m sail is made of lightweight plywood, which stretches across the space like a terse fabric

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS 51 Fabricwood, an installation for premium designer furniture store Xtra in Singapore on behalf of Herman Miller, was recognised as World Interior of the Year in 2017. The project, conceived by Produce.Workshop, won from over 200 entries and 78 finalists across nine categories.

P

ropped up by a series of arches that frame the entrances and connect the store to the street and the adjacent café, Fabricwood, conceived by Produce.Workshop, guides the customer from the three metres entrance to an eight metres glass

curtain at the end. The 20m by 7m sail is made of lightweight plywood, which stretches across the space like a terse fabric.

ACHIEVING THE LOOK To shape the plywood, a traditional tailoring technique called ‘darting’ was used. A continuous iteration and loop between computation and physical modelling served to calibrate the darts and their respective angles on a flat piece of plywood which helped to determine its eventual curvature when closed. Circular cut-outs were used at the converging point of the darts to allow the plywood to bend and avoid tears. When assembled, the structure formed a naturally undulating surface much like ruched fabric.

▼

Propped up by a series of arches that frame the entrances and connect the store to the street and the adjacent café, Fabricwood guides the customer from the three metres entrance to an eight metres glass curtain at the end

52 STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS 1

1. The inspiration for the design came from a clear understanding of the brand; Herman Miller’s core products and the philosophy, culture and aspirations of the company 2. To shape the plywood, a traditional tailoring technique called ‘darting’ was used All images are credited to Produce. Workshop.

2 AWARD-WINNING The structure also won the INSIDE World Interior of the Year award. Judged by INSIDE festival’s 2017 super-jurors – Marie Hesseldahl (Partner, 3XN), Eisuke Tachikawa (Principal, Nosigner) and Murat Tabanlıoğlu (Principal, Tabanlıoğlu Architects), the judges said the design was “a fresh approach to a project. It was about the process rather than the end product that led to a unique and new solution.” The jury applauded the fact that the engineering of the structure led to the architecture, and that the “process created an invention”.

The inspiration for the design came

moulds comfortably to the human body,

The award was presented at the finale of

from a clear understanding of the brand;

Produce.Workshop sought to develop a

INSIDE World Festival of Interiors, a gala

Herman Miller’s core products and the

‘skin’ for the Herman Miller store that

dinner held at the historic Postbahnhof,

philosophy, culture and aspirations

was ‘moulded’ to its host – Xtra. The

the former postal station. INSIDE World

of the company. Learning from the

structure was made to resemble a bazaar,

Festival of Interiors is co-located with

design processes of the work chairs,

where simple tent canopies are pulled

the World Festival of Architecture and

which combine formal, structural and

across the street to create a makeshift

together they form the largest celebration

material innovation based on ergonomic

marketplace with an approachable and

of contemporary architecture and design

research to create a surface that

casual atmosphere.

in the world. ℗

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

STRENGTHENING THE INDUSTRY’S GLOBAL PRESENCE Draw on the Malaysian Timber Council’s experience in the international timber and timber products trade to strengthen your competitive position and promote export growth. Our growth drivers are pursued and guided by: creating value through innovation extending our global outreach executing with excellence To learn more about Malaysian timbers and timber products, and the Council’s 2018 events and programmes, please visit www.mtc.com.my

SUSTAINABLE

PROGRESSIVE

ROBUST

54 STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS

Lagos Tower is the first wooden skyscraper in Africa

RISING HIGH ABOVE

STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS 55 Hermann Kamte & Associates reveals the first Wooden Skyscraper proposed in Africa.

The Lagos' Wooden Tower is among the winners of the Inaugural WAFX Prize and is one of the world's most Forward-Looking Architectural Concepts and the Best Cultural Identity Project of the Year.

H

ermann Kamte & Associates (HKA) has unveiled their proposal for a wooden residential tower

in the downtown of Lagos, the most populated city in Africa with more than 16 million inhabitants.

Spanning across more than 40,000 square metres, the design of the skyscraper was directed by Architect Hermann Kamte, CEO and founder of HKA. According to Kamte, the architectural concept of wooden tower aims to improve

The architectural concept of Lagos Tower aims to improve the living conditions of the inhabitants of the city of Lagos

the living conditions of the inhabitants of the city of Lagos.

THE INSPIRATION Inspired by cultural and urban themes, the project, located in Ikoyi — a luxury residential area, is built on top of an existing structure. The challenges the team faced were “How the roof of today can be the plot of tomorrow? How to build a new city above the existing one?

And what is plan B for the future?” In order to address the challenges, the project focused on the reinvention of a new urban fabric with the hypothesis of a solution and sustainable construction with wood. In addition, the city also has forest resources that can produce timber.

The vast height of Lagos Tower allows for natural elements such as ventilation and lighting All images are credited to Hermann Kamte & Associates.

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

56 STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS With that, the tower was designed to be

In fact, the envelope of each block

b y g re e n e r y a n d te r ra c e s w h i l e

a smart and sustainable building with

corresponds to a particular Yoruba tribal

the building envelope, beyond its

the entire structure using resistance LVL

symbol, which highlights their massive

cultural significance, acts as sunscreen.

(Laminated Veneer Lumber) wood system.

presence in the heart of Lagos.

And with its microclimate effect, the

ALL ABOUT THE DETAILS

The vast height of the tower allows for

The existing “Abebe Court” is a complex

natural elements such as ventilation

of four structures, which consists of four-

and lighting. The floors are surrounded

and three-bedrooms apartments spread over four floors. Amenities also include swimming pools, gym, tennis courts, children’s playground, parking lots, water treatment and sewage treatment and electricity generators.

The tower is organised in three blocks above an existing structure and are connected to each other by the gathering space for sports or recreational activities.

tower is a giant lung in the urban space which helps to reduce the surrounding pollution too. ℗

AWARDS 2018 | Winner | MSADA | Residential | New york | USA 2018 | Finalist | Architizer A+Awards | Unbuilt Multi Housing | New york | USA 2018 | 2nd Prize | Le Monde Smart Cities | Housing & Urban Planning | Singapore 2018 | Winner | Creative Conscience | Architecture & Interior Design | London | UK 2018 | Finalist | The Plan Award | Housing Future | Bologna | Italia 2018 | Finalist | MIPIM/AR Future Projects | Residential | Cannes | France 2018 | Finalist | Inspireli Awards 2017 | Vison | Moscow | Russia 2017 | Winner | WA Awards 26th Cycle | Designed | USA 2017 | 1st Prize Awards | WAFX Prize | Cultural Identity | Germany 2017 | Winner | American Architecture Prize | Green Architecture | New York | USA 2017 | 1st Prize Awards | Rethinking The Future Awards | Residential | New Delhi | India 2017 | Finalist | World Architecture Festival | Future - Residential | Berlin | Germany 2017 | Bronze | A’Design Award | Architecture, Building & Structure Design | Come | Italia

DATA SHEET Official name: Lagos’s Wooden Tower Location: Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria Gross floor area (GFA): 40,176 m²; Gross volume (GV): 135,108 m³; Site area: 13,000 m²; Footprint area: 1134 m² Building height: 87 m

The tower is organised in three blocks above an existing structure

LAGOS Tower was designed to be a smart and sustainable building with the entire structure using resistance LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) wood system

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

58 SHOW PREVIEW

THE RISING STAR IN VIETNAM As the government of Vietnam looks to promote the wood processing and forestry export industry in Vietnam, the stage is set to drive the sector forward.

I

n 2017, Vietnam wood processing industry turnover hit US$8billion, a 10 per cent growth from the year

before, and is expected to rise to US$20 to 25 billion over the next decade.

The number of enterprises has grown from 2,500 in 2008 to 4,500, including 3,900 domestic enterprises and 600 foreign-funded investment enterprises.

In fact, of these enterprises, 1,500 are both processing and exporting their products to overseas markets. These wood enterprises have also started placing more emphasis on investing in advanced equipment to modernise production lines in order to produce complex products while growing sustainably.

Understanding this, the government of

Orgnaiser of BIFA Wood Vietnam and Managing Director of Panels & Furniture Asia, Mr William Pang, shakes hand with Mr Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Prime Minister of Vietnam. In the centre, is Mr Huynh Quang Thanh, Chairman of Binh Duong Furniture Association, welcoming the prime minister too.

Vietnam organised a wood processing conference known as “The orientations

Mr Nguyễn Xuân Cường, minister of

According to Mr Phuc, there was a need

and solutions for a rapid and sustainable

Agriculture and Rural Development.

to have more support provided for the

development of the timber and forest product processing industry and export”.

wood processing and forestry production Together with key leaders of the wood

industry in order to realise goals and

processing industry in Vietnam, the

create jobs in the rural and mountainous

The conference saw the attendance of

ministers facilitated the conference to

areas.

Mr Nguyen Xuan Phuc, prime minister

find out about the key challenges that

of Vietnam; Mr Trương Hòa Bình,

the industry is facing while exploring

Also, in line with the growth and

deputy prime minister of Vietnam; and

solutions.

development of the industry, the Prime

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

SHOW PREVIEW 59

Mr Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Prime Minister of Vietnam, looking through Panels & Furniture Asia magazine

Minister encouraged the sector to apply

The Vietnam wood processing industry

to key timber areas in the Southeast and

science and technologies in forest planting,

has been growing drastically. In the last

Central Highlands of Vietnam, Binh Duong

wood processing and forestry exports while

decade, the industry has grown 2.7 times

has become a favourable business and

driving growth in the sector and leveraging

— placing Vietnam as the fifth biggest

investment environment.

on the international trade agreements that

wood exporter in the world, second in

Vietnam has signed.

Asia and first in Southeast Asia. In fact,

The province attracts wood processing

the first seven months of 2018 saw a

enterprises and has an annual growth rate

He also emphasised the need to ensure

turnover of US$5.3 billion, a 13.6 per cent

of 12.6 per cent. Wood products capacity

that high-quality raw material wood is

increased as compared to the same period

and export turnover was more than US$4

legally sourced such as raising awareness

in the year before. Progress is expected to

billion in 2017, which accounts for more

among the industry to shift from extensive

remain the same in the next five months,

than half of Vietnam’s total.

forestry practices to intensive practices by

thus, hitting the target of US$9 billion for

using high-level techniques and high-yield

the year 2018.

plant varieties. This is on top of enhancing

In addition, with the government’s support to drive the industry forward, BIFA Wood

product processing industry and export in

HOW BIFA WOOD VIETNAM HELPS?

the world market; and to supplement and

Jointly organised by Panels & Furniture

finalise mechanisms and policies to create

Group of wood magazines and Binh

a legal corridor for supporting timber and

Duong Furniture Association (BIFA), BIFA

BIFA Wood Vietnam will take place from

forest product processing and exporting

Wood Vietnam will be held in the heart of

24th to 27th October 2018 at Binh Duong

enterprises. For instance, restricting the

Vietnam’s furniture cluster, Binh Duong.

Convention in Binh Duong.

competitiveness of the wood and forest

Vietnam 2018 is set to unlock endless possibilities for businesses looking to tap into Vietnam or to expand in the country.

export of raw wood materials to sustain domestic raw materials through tax policies

With its plentiful labour force, a dynamic

and monitoring the practical implementation.

team of businessmen and ideal connections PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

60 SHOW PREVIEW

BIESSE AT E42 A SIMPLE PROCESSING CENTRE THAT MEETS EVERY PRODUCTION NEED

ABILITY TO PROCESS LARGE SIZES Rover A Smart can accept pieces of up to 245mm, the only one in its category with

Rover A Smart is a simple, user-friendly

this feature! With this, manufacturers

NC processing centre for producing any

can accept a wider variety of job orders.

type of furnishing item. It is ideal for both small and large manufacturers that

MAXIMUM SAFETY

need to produce either irregular shaped

E xc e l l e n t p ro d u c t i v i t y w i t h h i g h

components or standard size components

machining speeds, whilst ensuring

in small batches. The 5-axis technology in

absolute safety for the operator.

Rover A Smart provides an added value by allowing complex pieces to be created with

SET UP ASSISTANCE

utmost simplicity, accuracy and a fine finish.

The work table has a guided positioning

OPTIMUM PRECISION AND HIGH-QUALITY FINISH Manufacturers can expect maximum

function, providing the operator with suggestions on how to position the panel and protecting the working area from the risk of collision with the tool.

reliability and productivity thanks to the use of first-class components, such as the

Following the "ThinkForward" concept,

use of linear slide guides on the work table

Biesse aims at backing its customers in

that help machine operator finds the perfect

the fourth industrial revolution, through

positioning for accuracy and stability.

a new approach to change, which does not complicate, but rather simplifies, the Manufacturers can expect maximum reliability and productivity thanks to the use of first-class components

design and production steps, thanks to incomparable user-friendly machines.

The Biesse Group promotes, nurtures and develops close and constructive relationships with customers in order to better understand their needs and improve its products and after-sales service.

Biesse Group Asia has a permanent showroom with an array of speciallyRover A Smart is a simple, user-friendly NC processing centre for producing any type of furnishing item

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

selected technologies for live demonstrations in Kuala Lumpur.

62 SHOW PREVIEW

HIPOINT AT A10 However, the economical E CLASS

a highly precise linear guide way to achieve

DET is a different choice. It features

the perfect parallel at x-axis. The feed chain

perfect sizing and trimming cut for wood

track system is enriched with precision

block and narrow panel. The machine

track linkage, which is mounted with dust-

includes scoring saw, main saw, moulding

proof and free lubricated needle bearing to

unit (3+3) and can be equipped with

ensure the perfect parallel at y-axis.

automatic feeding magazine (optional).

Working width also starts from 220mm

Together, the accurate linear guide way and

to 1300/2000/2600mm with the working

meticulous feed chain track form the double

thickness a standard 100mm.

crisscrossed movement to ensure squaring.

manufacturing panel, solid wood furniture

With the heavy and rigid construction

The highly-accurate needle bearing is also

and house such as OA furniture, kitchen

of the DET series, sizing, squaring and

mounted in the precision chain track linkage

doors and windows, and wood and

tenoning are of high precision and

for dust-proof and free lubrication.

laminate flooring production.

production. In addition, the bed carries

The DET-2000 E6 with auto feeding

THE DET series double end tenoner from HIPOINT is designed for factories

The heavy-duty H CLASS DET features a sequence of hogging, trimming, squaring, tenoning, moulding, chamfering, grooving and sanding. Its working width starts from 220mm (with 180mm on request) to 1300 /2000/2600/3200/4000/5000/6000m m. For working thickness, it is a standard 100mm (option 120/150mm).

The DET H-8

ARDEN AT B15 Arden is a leading manufacturer of

woodworking tools

superior carbide cutting tools for

include router bits,

woodworking industrial.

shaper cutters, hinge

Decorative moulding cutter with ball bearing

boring bits, solid The company's products provide high

carbide spiral bits,

performance, long-life and clean-

dowel drill bits, and

finish. Arden's full range of high-quality

more.

Decorative moulding cutter with ball bearing

Production routing tools

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

SHOW PREVIEW 63

GROUPE LEFEBVRE AT D55 GROUPE LEFEBVRE SAS is one of the leading companies for French beech.

Founded in 1946, Groupe Lefebvre is composed of eight companies with a consolidated turnover of 50 million euros of revenue (30 per cent export).

The Group has three sawmills processing

The Group has three sawmills processing more than 100,000m3 of beech logs annually

GROUPE LEFEBVRE SAS is one of the leading companies for French beech

(France), Picardie (France) and Romania.

with steady prices. This year, GROUPE

Thuy Ta Thi Ngoc, who has a permanent

In addition, GROUPE LEFEBVRE’s steaming

LEFEBVRE will also introduce and market

stock of 1000m3 in her warehouse to allow

and kiln chambers with up-to-date

two square-edged European cherry

quick deliveries.

technology, allow the Group to deliver

boards as European cherry offers a

regular steamed colour and steady

charming structure and colour.

more than 100,000m 3 of beech logs annually; located in Upper-Normandy

Also, Groupe Lefebvre has a long-standing commitment in making high-quality

moisture content.

GROUPE LEFEBVRE has a partner in Ho Chi

beech wood products from sustainable

The group now produces European ash,

Minh, Vietnam, known as Thien Than Phat

sources. The group’s timber is PEFC and

which is available in large volumes and

Timber Co Ltd, which is managed by Ms

FSC certified.

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

64 SHOW PREVIEW

FORMOSA KUANG YUNG ENTERPRISES CO., LTD. AT A15 STRAIGHT LINE (JOINTER) RIP SAW (MODEL: RSN-12C) The straight line jointer rip saw is designed for lumber straight modifies processing, jointer modifies processing and reconditioning.

Features of the straight line jointer rip saw: • The principle of saw cutting under the wood makes the cutting process steady, smooth and safe.

• The arbor of the saw blade and motor are from the same arbor body, which ensures stable operation of the machine.

• There are eight sets of upper press roller and the dense arrangement makes the track feeding reliable in achieving accuracy in processing.

• The saw arbor lift is adjustable, though dependable on the thickness of the wood, to reduce cracks in cutting.

• The jointer modifies straight lines processing, is skill free, guarantee conjunction and is highly efficient with high success rate.

• The feeding track ensures straight processing of the surface due to the multi-layer V-typed lover guide plate.

• The micro-computer digital control oil feeding system, developed by Formosa Kuang Yung, is adjustable for its feeding interval by the second in order to accurately achieve the perfect oil feeding (on the digital display). The enclosed illuminate instrument can be used to inspect the bottom oil feeding of the track to avoid damage due to oil and to extend the life of the machine.

• The oil feeding instrument developed by Formosa Kuang Yung is equipped with the five holes of individual oil port; one port with an oil tube to ensure the oil is used in the right location.

The high-pressure feeding is also used to avoid blocking the wood chip.

• Depending on the thickness and hardness of the wood, the feeding speed can be set to continuous through the digital display. This is to ensure convenience in operation and management.

• The feeding guide plate can also be adjusted right or left, and locked quickly to ensure a seamless operation.

• The safety switch of the saw blade box door ensures the saw blade only starts after the door is closed. This is to assure the safety of the operator.

• The front feeding entrance safety plate is made of heattreating steel to ensre stability and prevent the rebound of wood.

The Straight Line (Jointer) Rip Saw

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

The Multi Rip Saw

HEAVY DUTY – MULTI RIP SAW (MODEL: RS-250B/ RS-310A) Features of the multi rip saw: • By cutting from below the wood, the cutting process is steady and smooth as well as is safer for operation.

• The feeding roller has a long service life with the shortest processing length being 250mm.

• There are six sets of upper feeding roller with 200mm central distance to ensure easy adjustment while the press pressure is offered by the cylinder.

• The large stroke of the upper press pressure cylinder presses the timber to ensure even cutting of different thickness-sized timber while ensuring the safety of the operation.

• The upper machine stand the saw blade main arbor are easy to operate through electrical adjustment.

• The height of the saw blade and the upper, lower machine stand are relative to the safety switch which is located on the upper side of the machine for easy adjustment and inspection.

• With the digital display, the feeding speed can be conveniently seen and managed.

• The feeding speed can be controlled via the frequency converter which is easy to adjust.

• When the load of the main arbor becomes large, the feeding speed will automatically reduce to achieve the optimal cut for the situation.

• The spacer ring between the saw blade is made of aluminum alloy.

• The cutter axle adopts the Europe SKF bearing to ensure quality and stability.

• The cutter axle and the feeding roller axle are able to withstand strict heat treating and will not be damaged even with heavy load.

• The main arbor belt wheel and motor belt wheel are fixed by the conical collar.

• All the elements and parts of the machine are recorded clearly while producing to ensure fast and correct supplement and maintenance service.

66 SHOW PREVIEW

WEIPINMECH INT'L CO., LTD. AT F20 WEIPINMECH specialises in sanding

issue at the junction.

machine belts. The specialist for endless

— which range from wood, metal, stone, panels, rubber, plastic and many other

rubber belts made by Weipinmech are

The main structure of the belts is a

wear resistance with no seam.

combination of rubber cover, polyester

composite materials processing.

fabrics and top face. By using these, the

The company also has a full range of

The endless manufacturing method

belts adopt the rubber material of wear

common specification inventory to

ensures the belt has no tear or uneven

resistance and polyester fiber of stretch

ensure customers can receive the belt

resistance.

immediately.

With high flexibility and even thickness, the belts can improve processing precision of the work piece on the linear conveyor. In addition, it also ensures a long service life.

Weipinmech also provides various customised production for customers with The belts are wear resistant with no seam

special requirements. Currently, the belts are widely applied to sanding machine

Weipinmech specialises in sanding machine belts

JOWAT AT E53 JOWAT is presenting tailor-

edgebanding, profile wrapping and flat

adhesives. These are mainly used in

made adhesive solutions

lamination as well as UF resins with low

woodworking and furniture manufacturing,

for all operations in the

emissions.

paper and packaging industry, graphic arts, textile, automotive as well as in the

wood-processing industries

Jowat® UF resins can be used for classic veneering and flat lamination

electrical industry.

at this year’s BIFA Wood

Hot melt adhesives based on reactive

Vietnam — from classic

polyurethane (PUR) currently represent

applications to the highest

the highest quality level in edgebanding,

The company was founded in 1919 and

requirements. The products

profile wrapping and flat lamination.

has manufacturing sites in Germany —

showcased by the adhesive

These moisture-curing hot melt adhesives

Detmold and Elsteraue, along with four

specialist include PUR hot

require good handling during processing.

other producing subsidiaries: Jowat

melt adhesives for superior

They are supplied in moisture-proof

Corporation in the USA, Jowat Swiss AG,

packaging units and processed in special

Jowat Manufacturing in Malaysia, and the

melting units protected from exposure to

Jowat Universal Adhesives Australia Pty.

ambient humidity. Jowat® UF resins can

Ltd. in Australia. The supplier of all adhesive

be used for classic veneering and flat

groups is manufacturing over 90,000 tons

lamination with pressure laminates such

of adhesives per year and has around

as HPL or CPL to meet the requirements in

1,100 employees. The company also has a

accordance to E1 and CARP P2 standards.’

global sales structure with 22 subsidiaries

Jowat is presenting tailor-made adhesive solutions for all operations i n w o o d - p ro c e s s i n g companies at this year’s BIFA Wood Vietnam

as well as partner companies to ensure

ABOUT JOWAT

service is provided locally while remaining

Jowat SE with headquarters in Detmold is

in close contact with the customers.

one of the leading suppliers of industrial

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

SHOW PREVIEW 67

ALTENDORF AT E62 ERGONOMIC: THE ALTENDORF WA 8 X WITH THREE MOTORISED AXES Number one for ease of operation and ergonomics: The eye level control panel of the Altendorf WA 8 X can be pivoted to the most convenient position for the operator. This is in addition to the motorised rip fence.

MOTORISED RIP FENCE The motorised rip fence has a traverse speed of 250 mm/sec and an accuracy of +/− 1/10 mm. The high precision fivepoint recirculating ball spindle system needs little maintenance and, along with the motor, is well protected by its integration into the aluminum profile.

The Altendorf sliding table is renowned for its smooth and exact running, the hallmark of an Altendorf design

The fence automatically recognises the position it’s in, especially when it reaches the danger area around the saw blade.

There is an emergency cut-out to prevent the risk of crushing.

THE ALTENDORF SLIDING TABLE The Altendorf sliding table is renowned for its smooth and exact running. This is the hallmark of an Altendorf; and it all comes down to design: The table runs on large dumbbell rollers, which are sandwiched between hard-chromed guide bars, guaranteeing absolute precision. The system’s large rollers ensure smooth action, which means the table takes less effort to move and glides and is as securely as if it were on rails.

This quality running will endure decades of heavy load bearing in the constant presence of dust and chips, and it needs virtually no maintenance. Each time the table moves, the brush fitted to the upper part automatically cleans the round guide bars. In fact, the system operates without any lubrication. Additionally, the table’s hollow multi-chamber aluminum extrusion guarantees optimal torsion resistance and rigidity.

The Altendorf WA 8 X

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

68 SHOW REVIEW

CELEBRATING WOOD

A

nd so, once again, Sylva Wood

to 27th June 2018, saw a gathering of

“This is the fourth year we’ve hosted

has ended on a high note. Since

high-level government officers, industry

Sylva Wood since the first event in 2015.

its inaugural start in 2015, the

and international organisations and

This edition celebrates the world of wood

show has grown significantly and has

widely-recognised key players. Sylva Wood

and is a culmination of the last few years’

been vastly recognised as Asia’s one and

2018 has become the strategic platform

efforts in driving industry growth and

only specialised wood materials show.

for industry experts and professionals to

helping to shape the wood materials

come together to discuss and co-create

industry,” said William Pang, managing

This year, with the theme, “Bringing the

solutions for the wood materials industry,

director and organiser of Sylva Wood.

world of wood to Sylva Wood”, the three-

focus on emerging trends, and accelerate

“The depth of discussions here, the

day event, which took place from 25th

innovation.

highly-focused seminars, the innovative solutions exchanged have paved the way for industry acceleration. The event has grown over the years and the continued support from our members is a strong testament of how far Sylva Wood has come.”

“It is a very busy show, so busy that we don’t have time for lunch. We have a lot of visitors and according to one of the industry members here, all the customers are relevant and good visitors. The quality is good as compared to other shows,” said Tan Ting Wai, director of MTC Guangzhou.

The show continued to be endorsed by American Hardwood Export Council, The French Timber, Canada Wood, the Shanghai Timber Trade Association, American Softwoods, Malaysian Timber Council, Quebec Wood Export Bureau, Smaland of Sweden and Thai Timber Association.

In addition, the event also saw the delegation of Binh Duong Furniture Association (BIFA) from Vietnam gracing the show.

Sylva Wood 2018 has become the strategic platform for industry experts and professionals to come together to discuss and co-create solutions for the wood materials industry, focus on emerging trends, and accelerate innovation

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

“This is the fourth show that AHEC is attending,” said John Chan, director, Southeast Asia and Greater China of AHEC. “The location of AHEC Pavilion is

SHOW REVIEW 69 good and the traffic is quite heavy. The members have received some potential buyers so, we are happy with the show.”

BEYOND DOMESTIC Across the three days, Sylva Wood 2018 attracted more than 3,800 visitors — including from overseas countries such as U.S., Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Uruguay, Hong Kong, Russia, Lithuania, Singapore and France.

“I knew about this show from the industry association. I am a factory owner from Shanghai. Though I have heard about this show for some time, this is my first time here. I have looked through the boards and panels at the show, and I find it a rewarding visit. The seminars are so Sylva Wood 2018 took place from 25 to 27 June th

th

informative. Visitors need to pay yet I see

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

70 SHOW REVIEW

The Russian Pavilion came back for the second time and was once again the largest pavilion at the show

so many people here, it says a lot about the show,” said Hu Mingcai from Shanghai Guan Mu International Trade Pte Ltd. Wu Binhao from Jiangsu Mu Li Cultural Investment Pte Ltd said, “I sell wood materials on an online platform. I come to this show every year to look for new opportunities and find out about the latest wood materials. This time round, I see some new faces too. Sylva Wood is a good platform, I can always discover new things and also chat with exhibitors here.”

Sylva Wood 2018 also saw more than 100 exhibitors — coming from countries as far as Malaysia, Singapore, U.S., Sweden and more. The Russian Pavilion came back for the second time and was once again the largest pavilion at the show —

Sylva Wood 2018 also saw more than 100 exhibitors — coming from countries as far as Malaysia, Singapore, U.S., Sweden and more

receiving popularity from the visitors.

The organiser is equally helpful too in

twice as a visitor and now, we are back

participating in this exhibition as this

solving our difficulties this year as a lot

for the third time as an exhibitor. This is

expo allows us to organise a lot of

of useful meetings were held,” said Galina

very good for us as we are able to know

meetings with our partners. Since last

Andreeva, lead export manager of Co.Ltd.

our real customers and interact with the

year, we have an agent in China who

WPM “Kalevala”.

traders that we have been working with.

“ This is the second time we are

That is a nice attribute of this show,”

helps us to communicate with all our buyers, and with this strategy, this

“I think that it is a wonderful idea to come

said Daniel Aldini, marketing manager

exhibition was really rewarding for us.

here. Our manager came to Shanghai

of Haty Wood.

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

SHOW REVIEW 71 THE POTENTIAL OF CHINA China is still the world’s largest importer of wood fibre and the largest exporter of plywood, flooring and wooden furniture along with many other related products.

While rising labour costs and other factors have been potential drags on growth, 2017 still saw a record-high imports of logs and lumber.

In fact, imports for the country’s timber and forest products are expected to increase by 60 million cubic metres by 2025, which will eventually

The show continued to be endorsed by American Hardwood Export Council, The French Timber, Canada Wood, the Shanghai Timber Trade Association, American Softwoods, Malaysian Timber Council, Quebec Wood Export Bureau, Smaland of Sweden and Thai Timber Association

account for about 12 to 13 per cent of the global timber harvest. Also,

estimated 194 million cubic metres in

With this in mind, Sylva Wood 2018

with the central government ‘s move

2015 to 254 million cubic metres by

had successfully pulled together a

to aggressively reduce financial risk

2025, according to RISI, a company

premier platform that allowed visitors

and pollution in the country, wood

specialising in providing information

and exhibitors to explore and enhance

content of China’s primary forest

and data for the global forest products

productivity and competitiveness at this

products imports will increase from an

industry.

dedicated business-to-business event. ℗

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

72 SHOW REVIEW

FROM THE GROUND

“

This is the fourth show that AHEC is attending. There are 32 AHEC member companies exhibiting at the AHEC pavilion. The location of the AHEC Pavilion is good and traffic is quite heavy. The members have received some potential buyers so, we are happy with the show. The two grading seminars held on the first and second day have also helped visitors to increase U.S. hardwood lumber grading knowledge. We will certainly come back again next year.

”

John Chan, Director, Southeast Asia and Greater China of AHEC

“

Sylva Wood is very much like a gathering of old friends and of course, also a place to meet many new ones. Because we are an association, and our objective is still to promote Quebec’s hardwood — old and new customers are equally important to us. But we have to say the stream of customers here is very pure in the sense that there are no other kinds of products and distractions so, the show has good impact.

We have suppliers and manufacturers from the industry coming here simply because they need our supplier’s resources.

Compared to other wood related shows in China, Sylva Wood places more emphasis on wood materials. There are a lot of visitors and the type of visitors are mixed. What I like about this show is that the visitors all come with the same intention — to buy wood materials.

”

Noah Li, Director- China, Quebec Wood Export Bureau

“

The fair itself is not very big, but the size doesn’t matter as the focus group is more important. If I were to throw a stone at anybody in this show, he will be a buyer of wood. That means I can immediately identify all the buyers, those who visit my booth will be buyers of some kind of wood.

Jirawat Tangkijngamwong, Chairman, Thai Timber Association

“

”

This is the second time we are participating in this exhibition as this expo allows us to organise a lot of meetings with our partners. Since last year, we have an agent in China who helps us to communicate with all our buyers, and with this strategy, this exhibition was really rewarding for us. The organiser is equally helpful too in solving our difficulties this year as a lot of useful meetings were held. We have met lots of people from the industry, many companies are represented here and I think this show helps the different companies from all over the world to discuss and conclude new contracts. We have met a few big distributors and they are really interested. I think the show has helped us a lot in developing our business. We will definitely join this show next year.

”

Galina Andreeva, Lead export manager, Co.Ltd. WPM “Kalevala”

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

SHOW REVIEW 73

“

It is a very nice show because we have the occasion to meet such nice people. For a couple of us, this is our first time in China.

We came here on Sunday and I was amazed by so many people here. Yesterday morning, on the first day of the exhibition, we had a lot of people interested in our products, which is a very nice surprise for us as we did not expect that. I think that it is a wonderful idea to come here. Our manager came to Shanghai twice as a visitor and now, we are back for the third time as an exhibitor. This is very good for us as we are able to know our real customers and interact with the traders that we have been working with. That is a nice attribute of this show.

Daniel Aldini, Marketing Manager, Haty Wood

”

“

This is our fourth year joining the show, I am glad to see that quality and scale wise, the show is growing. Every year, we have more and more quality audiences. While there are quite a few shows in China related to wood, most of the shows are furniture and machinery focused with a portion for wood materials whereas for this show, it is raw materials and wood focused, as well as finished material focused, which is a good selling point for Pablo.

I have pretty positive responses from all of the U.S. participants and our company members. This year, we have 14 to 15 companies. Ours is a little different from AHEC, where each company has their own booth. In our case, everyone stays together to generate a big image of the American Softwood, which is why we take the show very seriously. Overall, it is a good quality show and we will keep coming for sure.

Xu Fang, Director, American Softwoods China Office

”

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

74 SHOW REVIEW

“

This is our first time participating as an exhibitor and we are quite pleased with the organisation. Most of our clients are here and this shows how important the show is to them. Sales wise, we have many customers today. Though most are old customers, there are also new ones. The biggest strength of Sylva Wood is the gathering of companies from many countries such as Russia, America, Malaysia and more. This way, customers have more choices. We will come again next year.

”

Mulintsev Evgeny, Chief Representative, Ilim Timber

“

For our company, this exhibition is our first in China. Nevertheless, we have clients and have been supplying to Chinese companies with a wide range of our plywood materials for different applications for furniture and flooring…various companies in Ningbo buy our wood to make toys for children. So, the Chinese market to us is very interesting and promising.

We are targeting to increase our presence in China so that is why this exhibition is very important to us to have some new businesses inside the Chinese market. During this exhibition, I have meetings with our current clients here and have contacted new companies. The most problematic thing in Russia is to obtain information needed about the Chinese companies and their needs so it is not so easy to find the right people.

That is why this exhibition is very successful for us, it helped us to find new promising directions to sell products and expand our business.

”

Elovikov Anton, Export Sales Manager, N1 tavda Plywood Mill

“

I have always been interested in Shanghai as it is the commercial centre of China so if there is any show here, it should be of high quality because it can gather many international companies. I am interested to seek cooperation with such companies.

For the past two days, we received many enquiries about our products and many people are willing to do business. Our company has been working with some provinces in Northern China, so it is great that most Chinese companies in this show are from the South like Shanghai, Jiangsu and Guangdong. It allows us to meet clients from different regions of China. Our factory, which is very close to Northern China, was set up two years ago for wood processing. We also harvest timber as we have forests. We came to this show hoping to find a partner to help us expand production, harvest and trade, and we found a few. We are currently discussing the details of our contracts.

So, we certainly have met our objective of coming to this show. We hope to enter the China market soon.

”

Zorikto Bayronov, Italmac Timber Company (Russia)

“

It is good. It is a very busy show, so busy that we don’t have time for lunch. We have a lot of visitors, according to one of the industry members here, all the customers are relevant and good visitors. The quality is good, compared to other shows. Last year or three years before, most visitors were looking for raw materials. This year, they are looking for semi-finished products, so they look at our semi-finished products like furniture components and have expressed their interest. So next year onwards, we will target components instead of just raw materials. This new interest is 50:50 for old and new customers.

This is a very successful show; our industry members are also very happy. So hopefully, I can bring more members to this show. Our booth has been on the same size for several years. I like that this show is very focused, no machinery or non-wood products like glue. Those who come to the show are really just wood people. So yes, of course, we will be here again next year.

Tan Ting Wai, Director of MTC Guangzhou

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

”

WOOD CLINIC 75 Hello, Mr Shen,

IMPROVING GLUE STRENGTH AND DISCOLOURATION ON THIN VENEERS

I am a reader of Panels & Furniture Asia. We are an interior decoration company that produces and supplies decorative boards and thin veneer decorative boards. The thin veneer is based on red and white oak, and beech while the substrate is three plyboard, lumber core plyboard and medium-density fibreboard.

The decorative boards are produced by the fivesection hot press with single-component water-based white emulsion used as glue. We received a complaint from the customer that the glue force was not strong enough and discolouration with spotted blemishes were found in some places after painting. Please advise on where we need to pay attention to in the production of decorative boards so as to improve efficiency and quality.

Yours sincerely, Mr Peter

H

ello, Mr Peter. Thank you very

12 per cent, which is the ideal

affect the bond between the thin

much for your letter. According to

range.

veneer and substrate, which results

Thickness of the thin veneer: Non-

in poor glue strength. It is

the information you have provided

•

on the phone — about insufficient

uniform thickness of thin veneers,

recommended to control the

glue strength on thin veneer materials,

mixing with thin veneers of different

amount of glue used.

discolouration in some places after

thickness or being under pressure

painting, and low efficiency — here are

in some places when pressurised

some suggestions for improvement:

in a press may lead to weak

(I)

•

Moisture content of the substrate:

glue strength in some parts.

Control of moisture content of the

Causes of insufficient glue strength

Check the thickness of the thin

substrate is the same method as

on thin veneer materials and

veneer when prepping the materials

that of the thin veneer.

suggestions for improvement.

to ensure consistency of the

1. Quality of the thin veneer

•

2. Quality of the substrate

thickness. Tolerance below 0.2mm

Moisture content of the thin

•

Thickness of the substrate: Nonuniform thickness of substrate,

is the ideal range.

mixing with substrate of different

Quality of the thin veneer’s back

thickness or being under pressure

the thin veneer is over 14 per cent,

surface: As thin veneer is thin

in some places when pressurised

glue strength will be weak. If the

and tearable, non-woven fabric or

in a press may lead to insufficient

moisture content of the thin veneer

paper backing sheet is affixed to

glue strength in some parts. Peel

and substrate are at a critical point,

the back to prevent tearing during

off the veneer and observe the

it will also lead to poor glue

the production process. It also

glue film in the honeycomb with a

strength, which tends to appear

prevents the glue from penetrating

20x magnifier. Check the thickness

after painting. Recheck the

into the thin veneer surface when

of the substrate when preparing the

moisture content of the thin veneer

binding with the substrate. If too

materials. If the thickness is

veneer: If the moisture content of

•

when preparing the materials.

much glue is applied, it will

inconsistent or tolerance is too

Ensure that it is between eight and

penetrate into the back surface and

large, process the substrate with

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

76 WOOD CLINIC

Figure 1. The rubber roller of the glue spreader is either damaged or has not been cleaned. The residual glue is cured and blocked the “V” shaped groove of the rubber roller, hence, resulting in uneven glue application

a wide belt sanding machine to

•

produce equal thickness. Ensure

•

strength.

partially. Check and ensure that the

Assembly time: Lay a board on

temperature of each laminate

the tolerance is below 0.2mm,

the substrate after it is coated

on the hot press reaches the value

which is the ideal range.

with glue. The time before

that is set in the temperature table

pressurisation is known as

— with temperature tolerance

assembly time. Recheck to

within the range of ±3°C.

3. Recheck the amount of glue applied

•

Figure 2. The waiting time for assembly took a long time after the substrate is coated with glue, thus, resulting in glue film crust

Setting the glue amount: Ensure

ensure the assembly time finishes

the amount of glue use is correct

within the effective period of the

as sesame beads can be found

glue film. Then, send the board into

extruded around the board when

the press for pressurisation to

unload from the press.

ensure the glue force reaches the

be thoroughly cleaned to ensure

Coating quality recheck: Uneven

desired strength.

it is free from damage.

7. Maintenance of glue spreader

•

coating (see Figure 1) can lead to weak glue strength. Check

This has to be done daily. Damaged 6. Pressurisation process

periodically that the right amount

•

glue roller may result in uneven

Pressure setting: In general,

glue application and can lead to

of glue is used. The desired glue

pressure gauges are available in

weak glue strength. Hence, it must

strength can only be achieved when

the press for production of

be replaced when damaged.

the coating thickness is uniform.

decorative boards. The pressure

4. Glue properties

•

•

If the copper shields on both

can be set according to the board

ends of the glue roller are damaged,

area and selection. Pressure

glue leakage or rise in temperature

In general, the white emulsion

settings can be detected from the

of the glue close to ends of the

is not resistant to solvents or high

pressure gauge of the press.

rollers may happen. This is due

temperature. When the glue

•

Pressure-holding time: Insufficient

to friction or poor adhesion, which

pressure-holding time, poor glue

is the result of glue metamorphism.

paint will appear to bubble and glue

film curing or pressure relief will

Worn copper shields must be

will fail along with other defects.

lead to poor adhesion. The

checked and replaced regularly

Check with the supplier about

pressure-holding time must be

to ensure the normal operation of

the standard of the anti-solvent

set according to the instructions of

glue spreader.

a n d t h e h i g h t e m p e r a t u re

the supplier. Observe the curing

resistance of the white emulsion.

of the glue beads extruded around

strength is at a critical point,

(II)

Cause of discoloration of

the thin veneer, and balance and 5. Assembly waiting period

•

After the glue application is completed, the glue roller must

Out in the open: When waiting for assembling after the substrate is

•

the thin veneer materials with

adjust the minimum set pressure-

spotted blemishes in some places

holding time.

after painting as well as suggestions

Setting of press temperature:

for improvement

•

coated with glue, ensure the glue

Uneven temperature of the pressing

film is wet without crust (see Figure

plate on the hot press will lead to

glue is applied for the binding of

2) as it will lead to poor glue

the thin veneer plywood peeling

thin veneer and substrate, it will

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

Wrong amount of glue: If too much

WOOD CLINIC 77

Figure 3. With too much glue applied to the substrate, the glue penetrates into the thin veneer surface and becomes transparent after the glue dries. This is not obvious to the naked eye. Try using white emulsion with deep purple pigment and set the glue amount to the substrate at 200g/m2. The stained glue permeated into the thin veneer surface in spots after it is bounded and pressurised with the thin veneer

penetrate the surface of the thin veneer (see Figure 3). This causes discolouration of the thin veneer materials along with spotted blemishes in some places after painting. Reduce the amount of glue applied to ensure glue penetration does not happen.

•

Glue penetration marks: Glue

Figure 4. Whenever the thickness of the substrate changes, reset and adjust the distance between the roller barrel and the glue roller in addition to raising the glue roller.

penetration into the back surface of the thin veneer may lead to spotted glue marks. Glue penetration marks are generally transparent on the surface of the thin veneer and are not easy to detect after the decorative board is sanded. However, some

for daily production. Doing so

of glue applied. Use the roller of

glue penetration marks may

will reduce the time required

the glue spreader and adjust the

appear in different colours after

to stop the machine and change

roller barrel to make it move up

the colour coating. Reduce the

the specification, hence, improving

and down simultaneously and

amount of glue applied for the back

the production efficiency.

according to the thickness of the

Improper glue spreader design:

substrate. This reduces the

The roller of the five-feet roller glue

downtime. Retest the amount of

surface and the binding of thin veneer.

(III) C a u s e s o f l o w p ro d u c t i o n

•

•

spreader can be lifted according

the glue applied to improve

to the substrate thickness.

production efficiency.

efficiency of the thin veneer

However, the roller is at a fixed

materials and suggestions for

height and cannot be hoisted

I hope the above analysis and suggestions

improvement.

together with the glue roller. It

can help you to improve the quality and

Imperfect production plan: There

only allows the adjustment of

production

is no perfect specification for

space from the glue roller — going

efficiency of

daily production of thin veneer

forwards or backwards. Reset

thin veneer

boards. But too many specifications

the amount of glue applied, as

materials. ℗

can lead to low production

shown in Figure 4. If the thickness

efficiency. Before production, the

of the substrate changes frequently,

Yours

va r i o u s s p e c i f i c a t i o n s a n d

reset and adjust the space between

Sincerely,

quantities of the thin veneer boards

the roller barrel and the glue

should be counted and planned

roller, and remeasure the amount

Mr Shim Mr Shim (Shen Yuxin)

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA • Issue 5 • September / October 2018

THE MALAYSIAN MDF MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION ( MMMA ) NEWSLETTER SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018

THE POWER OF PRICING

I

t has been a very challenging time

Price is the biggest profit driver for any

for the MDF and the particleboard

company. Research has shown that a

panel business in Southeast Asia

mere one per cent change in price has

due to the recent expansion of new

a multiplier effect of between six and 30

capacity seeking out market share.

per cent on gross profits. Furthermore,

This has created a lot of uncertainty

any reduction in pricing will have a

within the market and many companies

disproportionately high negative effect

have approached pricing in a very reactive

on cash flow.

way. These companies see pricing as the only way to maintain market share, often

I am not referring here to any abuse of

destroying hard earned price premiums

power to control pricing levels, rather I am

built up over many years of loyal customer

highlighting the issues companies face not

service.

just in the wood panel business but for all timber and furniture related businesses.

Taking a pure, short-term view on price adjustments without having a contingency

“The single most important decision in

plan is the equivalent of smashing the “In

evaluating a business is Pricing Power,”

case of emergency, break glass” panel

as quoted from Warren Buffett.

to put out a fire. Odds are, if you are breaking that glass, you are already in a

This is all the more reason to pursue

bad situation.

creative, intelligent and responsible price management in a time of uncertainty

78

The basic arithmetic should be blatantly

such as the current imbalance in supply

simple; when a business wants to manage

and demand. Price management is the

a margin position amid cost and volume

only remaining option for companies

uncertainty, pricing is paramount.

who want to survive now and thrive

Bluntly dumping prices risks reputational

later. What separates these thrivers and

damage, even more importantly, a blunt

survivors is a strong capability around

price reduction is often the product of

price management with clear objectives,

an incomplete thought process on what

knowledgeable people, streamlined

the effects of the price reduction will be.

process and a flexible system.

THE MALAYSIAN MDF MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION ( MMMA ) NEWSLETTER SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018

“

Some advice on how to create a positive

The single most important decision in evaluating a business is pricing power. If you've got the power to raise prices without losing business to a competitor, you've got a very good business.

And if you have to have a prayer session before raising the price by 10 percent, then you've got a terrible business.

”

Create value-based price lists.

Whilst products are rarely sold at

•

Link the customer experience to

list prices, these price lists are a tool

value. You may have a wonderful

to communicate the value of a

product, but it will only mean

product. Many lists are produced

something if you are able to

on a cost-plus calculation rather than

communicate its value to the

reflecting the value of that product.

c u s t o m e r. C o m p a n i e s w o r k intensively on creating the perfect

“You can determine the strength of a

experience, but forget to tell their

company by the amount of pain it goes

customers or even their own sales

through to increase prices,” said Buffett.

teams.

I hope that this insight into the importance •

Create a sales management structure

of pricing will help businesses to make

that reports not only on volume.

informed and intelligent decisions.

Most companies’ sales reports focus only on the volume numbers and ignore the broader impact pricing may have on the overall business.

Sales incentives should include items such as profit contribution and cash flow.

•

Re-think customer’s needs for a “ true” relationship. The best

Warren Buffett

customer experiences offer much m o re t h a n j u s t t h e p ro d u c t .

Relationship = Product + Service.

•

Optimised and conditional discount structure. Often the best customers do not get the best prices. Those customers that complaint the most get the biggest discounts. This l e a d s to i n c o n s i ste n c i e s a n d frustrations within the business, so a more structured approach should be taken.

80

•

price management strategy would be to:

About the Author Peter Fitch is the founder of Segamat Panel Boards (Malaysia) and is currently chairman of the Malaysian MDF Manufacturers Association (MMMA) and executive committee member of the Malaysian Panel Manufacturers Association (MPMA). Prior to working in Malaysia he worked for Plantation Timber Products (China) and Ta k e u c h i M D F (Malaysia). Peter has been based in Asia for more than 25 years and in the wood panel business for more than 20 years.

82

2018

JUNE 16 – 19

events calendar

QINGDAO INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE FAIR QINGDAO, CHINA Previously scheduled in May, QIFF features brands and products from the furniture and woodworking industry. Qingdao, a port city, is located in Shandong province. www.qiff.net

20 – 22 AHEC ANNUAL CONVENTION XI’AN, CHINA AHEC’s 23rd Southeast Asia & Greater China Convention will be held in Xi’an, where the number of furniture enterprises number 3,000. The convention programme features six keynote speakers, while the Market Panel Session will cover the development of the furniture and timber trade. www.americanhardwood.org

20 – 22 GABON WOODSHOW LIBREVILLE, GABON The first Gabon Woodshow will be held in Jardin Botanique in the Gabonese capital of Libreville. It is West & Central Africa’s leading platform for wood and forestry transformation. www.gabonwoodshow.com

25 – 27 SYLVA WOOD 2018 SHANGHAI, CHINA “Where the world of wood meets” has always been the tagline for Sylva Wood. It is Asia’s only trade expo for wood materials.

Now in its fourth edition, the show has grown tremendously. It brings the global timber network together to trade and secure new avenues of growth in one of the world’s most exciting market for wood. Alongside the three-day expo, a full programme of keynote speakers will also discuss market movements and innovation in timber technology. www.sylvawoodexpo.com

SEPTEMBER 11 – 14

OCTOBER 2–4

FMC CHINA 2018 SHANGHAI, CHINA

NHLA CONVENTION TORONTO, CANADA

FMC China is dedicated to building a marketplace that integrates the entire industry. Every year, it is held at SWEECC. It showcases original made-in-China designs and targets high-end manufacturing for the entire industry supply chain. www.furniture-china.cn

The Convention brings together the diverse membership of the association and overseas delegates for three days under one roof. It provides a chance to network with leading hardwood producers, suppliers and buyers from around the world and find vendors and solutions specific to company needs. www.nhla.com

11 – 14

CHINA INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE FAIR SHANGHAI, CHINA

CIFF is themed “Better Life, Better Work”.

Held at the National Exhibition & Convention Centre in Hongqiao, the show features over 2,000 brands. Products showcased are home furniture, home decor, home textile, outdoor furniture, office furniture, commercial furniture, hotel furniture, furniture machinery and raw materials. www.ciff-sh.com

26 – 29 IFMAC & WOODMAC 2018 JAKARTA, INDONESIA IFMAC & WOODMAC is where leading industry professionals gather to attract global buyers and market leaders to gain market share. www.ifmac.net

September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

24 – 27 BIFA WOOD VIETNAM 2018 BINH DUONG, VIETNAM The show is held in the heart of Vietnam’s furniture cluster. With Vietnam set to be one of the world’s leading exporters of wood and furniture products, BIFA provides exhibitors a chance to reach out to the wood processing enterprises in Binh Duong, a key furniture manufacturing hub. www.bifawoodmacvietnam.com

NOVEMBER 1–4 MYANMARWOOD 2018 YANGON, MYANMAR Held at the Yangon Convention Center, MyanmarWood will feature technologies for wood processing innovations. www.myanmar-expo.com/MyanmarWood

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX September / October 2018 • Issue 5 • PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

COMPANY

PAGE

American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC)

OBC

Anthon

11

Argos Solutions

19

Baillie Lumber Co

9

BIFA Wood Vietnam China International Furniture Fair

IBC 1

CMC Texpan

15

China (Shanghai) International Furniture Machinery & Woodworking Machinery Fair

10

Extend Light Machinery Co., Ltd

71

Gau Jing Machinery Industrial Co., Ltd.

69

HOMAG

FC

Hoon Hsiang Industrial Co., Ltd.

25

IMAL-PAL

61

IMEAS

63

interzum guangzhou

79

Jiangsu Baolong Electromechanical Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

81

Kuang Yung Machinery Co., Ltd.

13

Lesnaya Industriya Journal

83

Malaysian Timber Council

53

Northwest Hardwoods

49

Panels & Furniture Asia

65

Panels & Furniture Asia - social media

47

Plytec

37

Sandvik

IFC

Siempelkamp

5

Steinert

73

Technik Industrial Co., Ltd.

57

Tong Fong Cutters Co., Ltd.

84

Yuton

7

Zhuzhou NTE-EWK Environmental Protection Technology Co., Ltd

2

Zhuzhou New Times Conveyer Machinery Co., Ltd.

3

Scan to download PFA September/October 2018 eBook

BIFA WOOD VIETNAM 2018

Date: 24-27 October 2018 Venue: Binh Duong Convention & Exhibition Centre (open ground) Duong Hung Vuong, Phu Hoa ward, Thu Dau Mot city, Binh Duong province, Vietnam

WOOD & WOODWORKING MACHINERY FAIR

ORGANISERS:

BINH DUONG FURNITURE ASSOCIATION

SUPPORTING MEDIA:

ENDORSED BY:

Binh Dinh Forest Products Association

Dong Nai Handicraft and Wood Industry Association

Vietnam Timber and Forest Product Association

Jointly organised by BINH DUONG FURNITURE ASSOCIATION (BIFA) PANELS & FURNITURE Group Enquiries For International Exhibitors Pablo Publishing Pte Ltd 3 Ang Mo Kio Street 62 #01-23 Link@AMK Singapore 569139 Tel: (65) 6266 5512 Email: williampang@pabloasia.com info@pabloasia.com

OFFICIAL COMPRESSOR: Taiwan Furniture Manufacturers’ ÛÛÈ ª ãªÈÁ pª ãÁ À W ÔĪ Hă

www.bifawoodvietnam.com