Issuu

Master 2026

UNITING MATERIALS, TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN

•

(LDF)

• High Pressure Laminates

• Low Pressure Laminates

• Specialty Laminates (2D & 3D Laminates &

143 DISTRIBUTION MATTERS

Highlighting the North American Building Material Distribution Association (NBMDA)

NBMDA Convention Recap

Navigating change, strengthening the channel

Tariffs are no longer a temporary disruption or a political bargaining chip

150 Community: A Commodity You Can Count On NA message from Michael Wilbur, NBMDA EVP 152 Eyeing the Future

Q&A session with new NBMDA President John Geraghty

154 Recent EDL Graduate Finds Focus and Fraternity in Program

Jonathan Carroll shares his experience with the Emerging Distribution Leaders Program

156 FOMO Fuels Distribution AI Frenzy

How Artificial Intelligence can benbefit the distribution channel

•

158 Setting Things in "Emotion"

Tips for selling your distribution business (and how to know it's the right time)

160 2026 NBMDA Member Directory

DEPARTMENTS

6 FROM THE PUBLISHER

OUR APPRECIATION: 526 Media and Surface & Panel Magazine thanks the following organizations who contributed images for the publication of this issue: AkzoNobel, Ambtra, Arauco, Arclin, BASF, Buffalo Veneer and Plywood, Burkle, Columbia Forest Products, Dackor, DVUV, EGGER, Fenix, Formica, Frama-Tech, Funder, GL Veneer, IFS Coatings, Jowat, KCD Software, Leuco Tools, MachMotion, NAPLY, NBMDA, Northern Contours, Onyx Specialty Papers, Panel Processing, Rev-A-Shelf, Richelieu, Riken, Roseburg, Salice, Shelter Forest International, Tafisa, Tece, Thermwood, MASTERS OF THE INDUSTRY 2026

54 A comprehensive listing and directory of the providers of materials and services in the panel processing industry.

Why an annual industry benchmark matters more than ever Timber Products, Titus Group, Uniboard, and Wilsonart.

ON THE COVER: Decorative metal laminates and solid metals offer elevated options for designers. This industrial look was created using Nero Ingo FENIX Innovative Materials on the tabletop paired with Black Brushed Aluminum Homapal Metal Laminate sides. Photo courtesy of Formica

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER

Patrick Adams

PH: 714-486-2735 padams@526mediagroup.com

VICE PRESIDENT

Shelly Adams

MANAGING EDITOR

Jennifer Williams

PH: 714-486-2735 jwilliams@526mediagroup.com

David Koenig, DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL

Sara Graves, SENIOR EDITOR

GUEST COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTORS

Alisha Hystop

Michael Wilbur

Denise Williams

SALES

Nick Kosan

PH: 714-486-2735 nkosan@526mediagroup.com

Chuck Casey

PH: 714-486-2735 ccasey@526mediagroup.com

John Haugh

PH: 714-486-2735 jhaugh@526mediagroup.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

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DIGITAL SUPPORT

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Why an Annual Industry Benchmark Matters

More Than Ever

Every industry needs a point of reference — a place where insight and perspective come together to define both where the market stands today and where it is heading next. The Surface & Panel Master Guide was created to serve that role.

This annual guide is not simply a collection of articles or company profiles. It is a benchmark: an editorially grounded snapshot of an industry in motion, shaped by manufacturing, design, technology, sustainability, and workforce forces. In an environment defined by constant change, the Master Guide provides focus.

As Publisher of Surface & Panel Magazine, I view the Master Guide as one of the most important projects we produce each year. Its purpose is not to capture everything, but to capture what matters — distilling the state of the industry into a single, reliable reference.

The pace of information today is relentless. Product launches, regulatory changes, and technology updates arrive daily. While speed has value, it often leaves little room for context or reflection. The Master Guide is intentionally different.

Published annually, it creates space to step back from the daily news cycle and assess the broader landscape. It looks beyond headlines to examine where momentum is building, where challenges remain, and which developments are likely to have lasting impact. It focuses not just on what is new, but on what is meaningful.

For an industry defined by long investment cycles, complex supply chains, and evolving customer expectations, this perspective is essential. Decisions made today often carry consequences for years to come, and the Master Guide exists to support those decisions with clarity and continuity.

The Master Guide is also designed to be used, not read once and set aside. In print, it offers permanence and focus — meant to live on desks and shelves, shared among teams, and revisited throughout

the year. In digital form, it extends accessibility and reach. Together, they reflect how industry professionals work today.

The surface and panel industry continues to expand in both scope and complexity, spanning materials, equipment, automation, software, and related technologies that serve diverse end markets. The Master Guide reflects this interconnected reality, recognizing that innovation increasingly happens at the intersection of disciplines.

As we look toward 2026, the industry faces both opportunity and complexity. Technology continues to advance. Sustainability expectations continue to rise. Workforce and supply-chain pressures remain.

For me, the Master Guide represents more than an annual publication. It reflects our responsibility as an industry media partner — to listen, to understand, and to serve. At 526 Media Group, and across the entire Surface & Panel team, our commitment to this industry is longterm. The Master Guide is one way we honor that commitment and help the industry move forward with confidence.

Patrick Adams, Publisher, Surface & Panel, 526 Media Group

Send your thoughts and messages on this issue and article to Patrick at padams@526mediagroup.com

2026 MASTER

Plywood Products

Fiberboard Products

Laminates

Veneers

EdgeBandings &

Edge Treatments

Surface Coatings

Lightweight Papers & Décor Foils

Adhesives

Technology & Software

Hardware & Fasteners

Tools & Machinery

Plywood in 2026

What’s Changing and What’s

Plywood has always been the industry’s “quiet workhorse:” dependable, scalable, and everywhere — often taken for granted until a disruption hits. Heading into 2026, the plywood sector sits at an interesting intersection of steady baseline demand and fast-evolving expectations around performance, sourcing, and downstream compatibility with modern manufacturing.

For fabricators, OEMs, distributors, and specifiers alike, plywood is no longer just a item on a commodity sheet. It’s increasingly a platform — one expected to deliver consistency, cleaner chemistry, and smoother integration with overlays, laminates, and automated production.

Demand is steady, but the mix is shifting

Plywood demand remains anchored by construction and remodeling, but the growth story is increasingly about where

■ SOFTWOOD PLYWOOD

■ HARDWOOD PLYWOOD ■ SPECIALTY PLYWOOD

Holding Strong

plywood ends up — and what it has to do once it gets there. Cabinetry, closets/organization, RV/marine, and light commercial interiors are increasingly demanding panels that are flatter, more uniform, and easier to finish.

At the same time, customers are pressing for better face quality and fewer downstream “surprises” (telegraphing, core voids, thickness variance, or inconsistent sanding). The takeaway: overall volume may not be the only headline in 2026. The segmentation of plywood grades, face expectations, and performance specs is becoming more meaningful than ever.

Quality and consistency are the new competitive battleground

In a world where shops are leaning into CNC routing, nestedbased manufacturing, automated edgebanding, and increasingly

ROSEBURG

tight tolerance requirements, the value of consistent plywood cannot be overstated. Mill-to-mill variability that might have been tolerated a decade ago becomes expensive when it triggers tool wear, rejects, rework, or line stoppages.

Expect manufacturers to keep investing in:

• Tighter thickness control and flatter panels for precision processing

• Cleaner, more consistent core construction to reduce voidrelated defects

• Improved sanding uniformity to support premium finishing and lamination

For buyers, the trend is toward building vendor relationships around repeatable quality rather than chasing the lowest spot price, because “cheap” becomes expensive quickly when downstream yields suffer.

Low-emission and cleaner chemistry are now baseline expectations

The market’s move toward low-emission panels is no longer a niche trend; it’s embedded into how many customers qualify products. Whether driven by regulatory requirements, green building programs, or end-user expectations, plywood producers are under pressure to demonstrate cleaner chemistry and transparent compliance.

In practical terms, that means:

• Stronger documentation and clearer claims around emissions standards

• Continued reformulation and optimization of adhesive systems where needed

• More buyer scrutiny on what “compliant” means across regions and applications

For 2026, the winners will be those who make it easy with clear paperwork, consistent performance, and fewer question marks.

Supply chain resilience remains a strategy, not a reaction

Even as markets stabilize compared to the whiplash years, risk hasn’t disappeared — it has simply changed shape. Freight volatility, labor constraints, and regional supply disruptions still influence lead times and pricing. Many buyers now treat sourcing as a risk-management decision, balancing:

• domestic versus imported plywood availability

• multi-sourcing to avoid single points of failure

• stocking strategies for critical thicknesses/specs

A notable shift is that procurement conversations increasingly include manufacturing realities: “Can we build this reliably, at scale, with predictable quality?” not just “Can we buy it cheaper this month?”

Plywood as a substrate system

One of the biggest under-the-radar developments is how plywood increasingly is being evaluated as part of a broader surface system. More buyers are selecting plywood based on how well it accepts:

• HPL and TFL overlays

• thermofoil and membrane pressing

• veneers, paints, stains, and UV-cured coatings

As surfaces and decorative expectations rise, plywood must support cleaner bonding, improved face stability, and more reliable finishing outcomes. In short, the substrate can’t be the weak link in a premium surface story.

SOFTWOOD PLYWOOD

Aspen Planers www.aspenplaners.ca

Boise Cascade www.bc.com

Canoe Forest Products www.canoefp.com

Eagle Plywood Specialties www.eagleplywood.com

Freres Lumber www.frereswood.com

GP Wood Products www.buildgp.com

Hardel Mutual Plywood www.hardel.com

Hood Industries www.hoodindustries.com

Hunt Forest Products www.huntforpro.com

LP Building Solutions www.lpcorp.com

Murphy www.murphyplywood.com

Pacific Wood Laminates www.socomi.com

Sustainability is moving from “marketing” to “measurable”

The plywood sector is increasingly expected to show its work. Responsible forestry, chain-of-custody certifications, and traceability are becoming more important — especially as larger organizations formalize ESG reporting and product transparency requirements. Sustainability conversations in 2026 will focus less on slogans and more on measurable proof points:

• fiber sourcing transparency

• certification alignment for targeted markets

• durability and lifecycle value (panels that last longer naturally reduce waste. ■

PotlatchDeltic www.potlatchdeltic.com

Richmond Plywood Corp. www.richply.com

Roseburg www.roseburg.com

RoyOMartin www.royomartin.com

Scotch Plywood www.scotchplywood.com

SDS Lumber www.sdslumber.com

Southern Veneer Products www.southernveneerproducts.com

Swanson Group www.swansongroup.biz

Timber Products Co. www.timberproducts.com

Tolko www.tolko.com

Westlam Industries www.westlam.com

Weyerhaeuser www.weyerhaeuser.com

HARDWOOD PLYWOOD

Besse Forest Products Group www.bessegroup.com

Buffalo Veneer & Plywood www.buffaloveneerandplywood.com

Columbia Forest Products www.columbiaforestproducts.com

Commonwealth Plywood Inc. www.cpiwhitehall.com

Darlington Veneer www.dvcplywood.com

Eastern Panel Manufacturing www.easternpanel.com

Formwood Industries www.formwood.com

Genesis Products www.genesisproductsinc.com

Husky Plywood www.huskyplywood.com

Manthei Wood Products www.mantheiwoodproducts.com

Murphy www.murphyplywood.com

Paged Plywood www.pagedplywood.com

Premwood www.premwoodllc.com

S.J. Morse Co. www.sjmorse.com

States Industries www.statesind.com

Swanson Group www.swansongroup.biz

TigerPly www.tigerply.com

Timber Products Co. www.timberproducts.com

West Frasier www.westfraser.com

The Wood Gallery Inc. www.woodgallery.biz

SPECIALTY PLYWOOD

Aircraft Plywood Manufacturing www.aircraftplywood.com

Aircraft Spruce & Specialty Company www.aircraftspruce.com

Chesapeake Plywood, LLC www.chesapeakeplywood.com

Homestead Hardwoods www.marine-plywood.us

J. Gibson McIlvain www.mcilvain.com

Paged Plywood www.pagedplywood.com

Plywood Logistics www.plywoodlogistics.com

Seacoast Hardwood www.seacoasthardwood.com

Sierra Forest Products www.sierrafp.com

Thomas Canada LTD www.thomescanada.com

Toledo Plywood www.toledoplywood.com

Wicks Aircraft www.wicksaircraft.com

What to watch in 2026

2026 Trends in the Plywood Market

If you’re in the plywood value chain, keep an eye on three practical signals:

1. Tolerance and flatness becoming “must-have” specs, especially for automated shops

2. Documentation and chemistry transparency accelerating in purchasing decisions

3. Growth in plywood-based systems engineered for overlays, finishing, and premium interiors

Plywood isn’t losing relevance — it’s being asked to do more. In 2026, the plywood sector’s advantage will belong to those who can

deliver consistent performance at scale, reduce downstream risk for customers, and prove that “panel reliability” is part of the value rather than an afterthought. ■

Fiberboard in 2026

Precision, Performance, and the Backbone of Modern Surfaces

Often operating behind the scenes, fiberboard products — particularly MDF and HDF — have become foundational to how modern surfaces are designed, manufactured, and finished.

As the surface and panel industry moves into 2026, fiberboard is no longer viewed simply as a cost-effective core material. Instead, it is increasingly treated as a performance substrate, expected to deliver uniformity, stability, and compatibility with increasingly sophisticated surface treatments and automated manufacturing environments.

Consistency is the defining value proposition

Few materials are judged as critically on consistency as fiberboard. MDF and HDF have long been valued for their smooth faces and uniform density, but expectations continue to rise. In 2026, consistency is not just about meeting specifications, it’s more about repeatability at scale.

Manufacturers and fabricators are prioritizing:

• Tight thickness tolerances to support CNC machining and precision joinery

• Uniform density profiles for predictable routing and edge finishing

• Improved panel flatness to reduce rejects and downstream adjustments

As production lines run faster and labor becomes more expensive, the cost of variability grows. Fiberboard suppliers that can deliver dependable, line-ready panels gain a clear competitive edge.

Fiberboard as a premium finishing platform

One of fiberboard’s greatest strengths, its ability to accept finishes cleanly, continues to drive demand across cabinetry, furniture, doors, millwork, and decorative components. In 2026, fiberboard is increasingly specified based on how well it supports high-end finishes, not just its price point.

Key finishing trends include:

• Paint-grade perfection, especially for matte and

high-gloss coatings

• Improved performance under membranes and foils

• Reliable bonding with veneers and laminates

As surface expectations rise, fiberboard is often chosen specifically because it eliminates visual and tactile inconsistencies that can undermine premium design intent.

Low-emission performance is now a baseline requirement

Environmental and indoor air quality considerations are firmly embedded in fiberboard purchasing decisions. Lowemission formulations have moved from differentiators to default expectations in many markets, particularly in residential,

BUFFALO VENEER AND PLYWOOD

ROSEBURG

MDF PANELS

commercial interiors, and institutional settings.

In practice, this means:

• Clear, consistent compliance documentation

• Formulations that balance emissions performance with machining quality

• Confidence that panels will perform consistently across different environments

For 2026, transparency matters as much as performance. Buyers want assurance that panels meet standards today—and won’t raise questions later.

Automation is reshaping how fiberboard is evaluated

As manufacturing environments continue to adopt automation, fiberboard’s role becomes even more central. CNC routing, robotic sanding, automated painting lines, and high-speed edgebanding all place unique demands on panel substrates.

Fiberboard is increasingly selected based on:

• Tool-friendly machining behavior that reduces wear and tear

• Predictable edge quality for consistent finishing and edging

• Dimensional stability under varying temperature and humidity conditions

In automated environments, fiberboard must behave the same way every time. Even small inconsistencies can disrupt throughput and erode efficiency gains.

Sustainability through efficiency and lifecycle value

Sustainability in the fiberboard sector is evolving beyond raw

material sourcing to include resource efficiency and lifecycle performance. The use of wood residuals and recycled fibers continues to support fiberboard’s sustainability narrative, but customers are also looking at how panels contribute to waste reduction and longer product life.

Key considerations include:

• yield optimization during machining

• reduced reject rates due to consistent quality

• durability that supports long-term use and refinishing

In many cases, the most sustainable panel is the one that performs reliably from the first cut to the final finish.

Fiberboard as part of an integrated surface system

Like other sectors of the industry, fiberboard is increasingly evaluated as part of a coordinated surface system. Compatibility with laminates, foils, coatings, and edge materials is no longer assumed — it’s specified.

Manufacturers are looking for:

• Panels optimized for specific surface applications

• Technical support that bridges substrate and surface performance

• Long-term consistency to support décor programs and product lines

This systems-based thinking reduces risk and supports faster development cycles, especially in design-driven categories. ■

MDF

Arauco North America www.na.arauco.com

Buffalo Veneer & Plywood www.buffaloveneerandplywood.com

D&M Lumber Products www.dmlumber.com

Duraplay de Parral SAPI www.duraplay.com.mx

Egger Wood Products www.egger.com

Genesis Products www.genesisproductsinc.com

GP Wood Products www.buildgp.com

Great Plains MDF www.greatplainsmdf.com

Kronospan LLC www.kronospan.com

Langboard www.langboard.com

Maderas Conglomeradas SA www.macosa.com.mx

Pan Pacific Products www.panpacificproducts.com

Premwood www.premwoodllc.com

Roseburg www.roseburg.com

Swiss Krono USA www.swisskronousa.com

Timber Products Co. www.timberproducts.com

Ultrapan www.ultrapan.net

Uniboard www.uniboard.com

Unilin MDF www.unilin.com

Lamination equipment designed to maximize production output while maintaining precision quality control. The system shown above includes a Union Hot Melt Roller Coater, Union Powered Lay-up Conveyor, and a Union Rotary laminator.

Our high-speed lamination systems are used in a variety of industries for a variety of different applications.

PRODUCTS PRODUCED BY OUR LAMINATION EQUIPMENT INCLUDE:

Acoustic panels, cabinets, decorative wall paneling, doors, flooring, store fixtures and displays, windows, work space dividers, and work tops.

APPLICATIONS INCLUDE: Both sheet to sheet and roll to sheet laminations.

CORE SUBSTRATE PANELS INCLUDE: Plywood, MDF, particle board, and composites.

LAMINATE MATERIALS INCLUDE: Veneers, HPL, vinyl, paper, film, and pre-applied adhesive backed materials.

West Fraser www.westfraser.com

West Wood Products www.west-wood.net

Weyerhaeuser MDF www.weyerhaeuser.com

Particleboard

Arauco North America www.na.arauco.com

BestBoard Impulsora SA www.bestboard1.com

Buffalo Veneer & Plywood www.buffaloveneerandplywood.com

Collins Products www.collinswood.com

D&M Lumber Products www.dmlumber.com

Duraplay de Parral SAPI www.duraplay.com.mx

Egger Wood Products www.egger.com

Florida Plywoods www.fply.com

Forestal Terranova Mexico SA www.masisa.com

Genesis Products www.genesisproductsinc.com

GP Wood Products www.buildgp.com

Kronospan LLC www.kronospan.com

Maderas Conglomeradas SA www.macosa.com.mx

Panel Processing, Inc. www.panel.com

Panolam Industries www.panolam.com

Plummer Forest Products www.plummerforest.com

Several themes will shape the fiberboard sector in the year ahead:

1. Precision and repeatability as non-negotiables

2. Increased focus on finishing performance and surface readiness

3. Sustainability measured through efficiency, not just inputs

Premwood www.premwoodllc.com

Roseburg www.roseburg.com

Tafisa Canada www.tafisa.ca

Timber Products Co. www.timberproducts.com

Uniboard www.uniboard.com

West Fraser www.westfraser.com

West Wood Products www.west-wood.net

Woodgrain Composites www.woodgraincomposites.com

watch

In 2026, fiberboard remains the backbone of countless surface applications, but its role is becoming ever more strategic. As manufacturers push for greater efficiency, better finishes, and tighter integration across materials, fiberboard’s value lies in its ability to quietly deliver reliability, precision, and performance at every stage of production. ■

Laminates in 2026

■ HIGH PRESSURE LAMINATES

■ LOW PRESSURE LAMINATES

■ SPECIALTY LAMINATES (2D & 3D LAMINATES & FILMS)

Design Freedom, Performance Demands, and the Next Phase of Surface Innovation

Few categories in the surface and panel industry sit as squarely at the intersection of design, performance, and manufacturing reality as laminates.

Long valued for their durability and versatility, laminates in 2026 are being asked to do more than ever — deliver elevated aesthetics, integrate seamlessly with automated production, and meet rising expectations around sustainability and consistency. As a result, the laminates sector is evolving from a “decorative layer” into a strategic component of the overall surface system.

Design is still the driver, but authenticity matters more

Design has always been a core strength of laminates, and that remains true heading into 2026. What’s changing is the level of sophistication customers expect. Visual realism — wood, stone, textile, or abstract — is no longer about simply matching a look. It’s about authenticity across scale, color, and texture, and about how that surface performs in real-world environments.

Advances in printing and embossing continue to narrow the visual and textural gap between natural materials and engineered surfaces. Deeper textures, synchronized embossing, and refined matte and soft-touch finishes are becoming standard expectations rather than premium exceptions. For specifiers and manufacturers alike, laminates that look good and hold up over time are increasingly non-negotiable.

Performance expectations are expanding beyond durability

Durability remains a core value proposition, but performance in 2026 extends well beyond scratch and wear resistance. Customers are paying closer attention to how laminates behave throughout the entire manufacturing and lifecycle process.

Key performance considerations now include:

• Consistent thickness and surface stability to support precision processing

• Predictable bonding and pressing behavior across substrates

• Resistance to fingerprints, chemicals, and light wear in high-use environments

In short, laminates are expected to be both productionfriendly and end-user resilient.

Manufacturing compatibility is shaping product development

As fabrication environments become more automated, laminate suppliers are increasingly designing products with manufacturing reality in mind. CNC routing, high-speed edgebanding, and short-run customization all place new

FORMICA

demands on surface materials.

For many buyers, laminate selection now involves questions like:

• Will this surface run cleanly on our line without excessive tool wear?

• Does it behave consistently across large production batches?

• Can it support fast changeovers and flexible production schedules?

The laminates that gain traction in 2026 will be those engineered not just for beauty and durability, but for process reliability.

Sustainability is now built into the conversation

Sustainability has shifted from a “nice-to-have” talking point to a baseline expectation across much of the laminates market. While aesthetics still open the door, environmental considerations increasingly influence final decisions, especially in commercial and institutional applications.

This shift is reflected in:

• Low-emission and transparent material formulations

• Longer-lasting surfaces that reduce replacement cycles

• Clear documentation supporting green building programs and internal ESG goals

Importantly, sustainability in laminates is no longer judged solely by raw materials, but by how products perform over time and how easily they integrate into responsible

manufacturing systems.

Laminates as part of a coordinated surface system

One of the most significant trends shaping the laminates sector is the move toward system-based thinking. Laminates are being evaluated not in isolation, but in combination with substrates, edge solutions, adhesives, and finishing processes.

Buyers increasingly expect:

• Color and texture coordination across panels, edges, and components

• Reliable availability and long-term décor continuity

What to watch in 2026

2026 Trends in the Laminates Market

For those navigating the laminates market, several signals will define success:

1. Design authenticity paired with functional performance

2. Products engineered for automated, high-efficiency manufacturing

3. Clear sustainability credentials backed by documentation, not claims

In 2026, laminates remain a cornerstone of the surface and panel industry, but their role continues to expand. The most successful laminate solutions will be those that balance visual impact with production efficiency and long-term performance, reinforcing their place not just as a surface, but as a critical component of modern manufacturing systems. ■

• Technical support that spans the full surface stack

This systems approach reduces risk, simplifies sourcing, and supports faster time-to-market — critical advantages in a competitive environment.

Shorter cycles, faster response

Market cycles continue to compress. Customers want access to on-trend designs quickly, without committing to long lead times or excessive inventory. In response, laminate producers are refining their portfolios to balance core, high-volume designs with flexible, responsive offerings that can adapt to changing tastes.

Digital tools, faster décor development, and closer collaboration across the supply chain are all enabling quicker pivots — an important capability as design trends accelerate. ■ RIKEN

HIGH PRESSURE LAMINATES

AICA Group www.aica-al.com/aica_group

CEI Materials www.ceimaterials.com

Cleaf www.cleaf.it

Dackor www.dackor.com

Formatop www.formatop.com

Formica Corp. www.formica.com

Jiangsu TRSK New Material Co., Ltd. www.js-trsk.com

Lamitech www.lamitech.co

Melaplast www.melaplast.de/en

Merino Laminates www.merinolaminates.com

Panolam Industries International, Inc. www.panolam.com

Stevens Advantage www.stevensadvantage.com

Tafisa Canada, Inc. www.tafisa.ca

Uniboard www.uniboard.com

Virgo Laminates www.virgohplworld.com

Wilsonart www.wilsonart.com

LOW-PRESSURE LAMINATES

AICA Kogyo www.aica.co.jp/english

American Laminates, Inc. www.americanlaminates.com

Arauco North America www.na.arauco.com

Arclin www.arclin.com

Dalbac Manufacturing Co., Inc. www.dalbac.com

Dongwha Malaysia www.dongwha.com/myen/main/main.asp

Egger Wood Products LLC. www.egger.com

Fiberesin Industries www.fiberesin.com

Formatop www.formatop.com

Funder by Genesis Products www.funderamerica.com

KML Corp. www.kmldesignerfinishes.com

Kronospan, LLC. www.kronospan.com

MJB Wood Group www.mjbwood.com

Panel Processing, Inc. www.panel.com

Panolam Industries International, Inc. www.panolam.com

Premier Eurocase www.premiereurocase.com

Purbanchal Laminates Pvt. Ltd. www.purbanchallaminates.com

Roseburg www.roseburg.com

Specialty Laminates www.specialtylaminates.com

Stevens Industries, Inc. www.stevens-wood.com

Swiss Krono Group www.swisskrono.com

Tafisa Canada, Inc. www.tafisa.ca

Texas Wooden Solutions, Corp. www.melaminetex.com

Timber Products Co. (Value -Added Division) www.timberproducts.com

Uniboard www.uniboard.com

Wilsonart www.wilsonart.com

Specialty Laminates & Films

Dackor www.dackor.com

Decotone Surfaces www.decotonesurfaces.com

DNP America, LLC www.dnpamerica.com

Interprint, Inc. www.interprint.com

Klockner Pentaplast www.kpfilms.com/en

Omnova www.omnova.com/laminates

Paladin Ind., Inc. www.paladinind.com

Premier Eurocase www.premiereurocase.com

Profol www.profol.com

Renolit Corp. www.renolit.com

Riken U.S.A. Corp. www.riken-usa.com

Sekisui Kydex LLC www.kydex.com

SSI North America www.ssinorthamerica.com

Synergy Thermal Foils www.synergythermofoils.com

Tafisa Canada, Inc. www.tafisa.ca

Taghleef Industries www.syndecor.com

Toppan Interamerica, Inc. www.toppaninteramerica.com

UFP Packaging www.ufppackaging.com

Vekaplan www.vekaplan.co.uk

UV CURED POWDER COATING ON WOOD

Veneers in 2026

Authenticity, Precision, and the Art of Engineered Natural Surfaces

Veneers occupy a unique space in the surface and panel industry, bridging natural material authenticity with engineered performance.

As the industry moves into 2026, veneers are being asked to deliver more than visual warmth and character. They must align with modern manufacturing realities, support sustainability goals, and offer repeatable beauty at scale. The result is a veneer sector that is evolving rapidly, balancing craftsmanship with precision and natural variation with controlled performance.

Authenticity remains the core value, but predictability is rising

The appeal of veneer has always been its connection to real wood — grain variation, natural depth, and tactile warmth that engineered surfaces still strive to replicate. That hasn’t changed. What has changed is how much predictability customers now expect alongside that authenticity.

Manufacturers and specifiers increasingly want:

• Controlled color ranges and grain matching

• Consistent slicing and layup quality

• Repeatable appearance across production runs

In 2026, successful veneer programs embrace natural variation without letting it become a liability. The challenge is delivering organic beauty with enough control to support modern production schedules and large-scale projects.

Engineered and recon veneers gain strategic importance

While natural veneers remain central to the category, engineered and reconstructed veneers continue to gain traction, particularly in applications where consistency, availability, and sustainability are critical.

Key advantages driving adoption include:

• Uniform appearance and color stability

• Long-term décor continuity across projects and product lines

• Efficient use of raw materials, reducing waste

For many manufacturers, engineered veneers are not a replacement for natural options, but a complementary solution — one that enables broader design freedom while managing

risk and supply constraints.

Precision substrates and bonding matter more than ever

Veneer performance is only as strong as the substrate beneath it and the bonding system that holds it together. As veneers are increasingly used in premium cabinetry, architectural panels, doors, and furniture, expectations around adhesion, flatness, and long-term stability continue to rise.

In practice, buyers are focused on:

• Reliable bonding performance across MDF, plywood, and composite cores

• Minimized telegraphing and surface distortion

• Panels that remain stable through finishing and environmental changes

The veneer sector’s evolution is tightly linked to advances in substrates and adhesives, reinforcing the industry’s shift toward more integrated surface systems.

Finishing performance defines success

Veneers are often chosen for their ability to deliver high-end finishes, but achieving consistent results requires more control than ever. As finish trends move toward lighter stains, matte

BUFFALO VENEER AND PLYWOOD

sheens, and open-pore looks, veneer quality and preparation become critical.

Key finishing considerations include:

• Uniform sanding and thickness control

• Predictable stain absorption and color response

• Compatibility with modern UV, waterborne, and low-VOC coatings

In 2026, veneer suppliers who support finishing success through material consistency and technical guidance will be valued partners, not just material providers.

Sustainability and responsible sourcing take center stage

Sustainability has long been part of the veneer conversation, but expectations are becoming more formalized and data-driven. Responsible forestry practices, chain-ofcustody documentation, and transparent sourcing are increasingly important, particularly for architectural and commercial projects.

At the same time, veneers offer a compelling sustainability story by:

• Maximizing yield from high-value logs

• Extending the reach of natural materials across more surface area

• Supporting long product lifecycles through refinishing and repair

In 2026, sustainability claims must be supported by documentation and traceability, not just tradition.

Veneers as part of a coordinated surface strategy

Like other surface categories, veneers are increasingly evaluated within a broader material ecosystem. Color coordination, long-term availability, and compatibility with edges, substrates, and finishes all factor into purchasing decisions.

Manufacturers are looking for:

• Veneer programs aligned with panel and edge offerings

• Reliable supply for multi-year product lines

• Technical support that spans design through production

This integrated approach reduces risk and ensures that natural beauty can scale without compromising efficiency. ■

VENEERS

Atlantic Veneer Corp. www.atlanticveneer.com

Buffalo Veneer & Plywood www.buffaloveneerandplywood.com

Cahaba Veneer www.cahabaveneer.com

Columbia Forest Products www.columbiaforestproducts.com

Commonwealth Plywood www.commonwealthplywood.com

Danzer www.danzer.com

DVC www.dvcplywood.com

Formwood Industries www.formwood.com

Freeman Corp. www.freemancorp.com

GL Veneer www.glveneer.com

Great Lakes Veneer www.greatlakesveneer.com

Manthei Veneer www.mantheiveneer.com

Oakwood Veneer www.oakwoodveneer.com

Timber Products Co. www.timberproducts.com

Treefrog www.treefrogveneer.com

Veneer Technologies www.veneertech.com

What to watch in 2026

2026 Trends in the Veneers Market

Several signals will shape the veneer sector in the year ahead:

1. Growing demand for controlled natural aesthetics

2. Expanded use of engineered veneers to manage consistency and supply

3. Greater emphasis on finishing performance and surface systems

In 2026, veneers continue to define premium surface applications, but their success depends on balance.

The veneer products that stand out will be those that preserve the authenticity designers value while delivering the precision, reliability, and sustainability modern manufacturers demand. ■

Edgebanding & Edge Treatments in 2026

Where Finish Quality Meets Manufacturing Reality

Edgebanding and edge treatments have moved from functional afterthoughts to defining elements of finished products. In many applications, the edge is the most visible, most handled, and most scrutinized part of a panel, and in 2026, expectations for edge performance and aesthetics continue to rise.

As manufacturing becomes faster and more automated, edge solutions are being asked to deliver flawless appearance, reliable processing, and long-term durability, all while integrating seamlessly into increasingly complex surface systems.

The edge is now a design feature, not just a finish

In modern cabinetry, furniture, closets, and commercial interiors, edges are no longer hidden. Minimalist designs, thinner profiles, and contrasting or color-matched edges place the edge squarely in the visual spotlight.

Design-driven trends shaping the sector include:

• Perfect color and texture coordination with panels and surfaces

• Matte, soft-touch, and anti-fingerprint finishes

• Slim and zero-joint aesthetics that create monolithic appearances

As surfaces become more refined, even minor edge inconsistencies can undermine an otherwise premium product.

Zero-joint and near-invisible edges continue to gain traction

Demand for zero-joint and near-invisible edge solutions continues to grow in 2026, driven by both aesthetics and perceived quality. Technologies that minimize glue lines and improve edge-panel transitions are increasingly viewed as table stakes in higher-end applications.

However, adoption is shaped by practical realities:

• Equipment compatibility and investment considerations

• Material behavior under heat and pressure

• Repeatability across long production runs

For many manufacturers, the challenge is balancing cutting-edge edge aesthetics with production efficiency and uptime.

Manufacturing reliability is a primary decision driver

As edgebanding lines run faster and with less manual intervention, reliability becomes critical. Edge materials must feed cleanly, bond consistently, and trim predictably — every time.

Key performance priorities include:

• Consistent thickness and dimensional stability

• Clean trimming and minimal post-processing

• Reduced tool wear and maintenance requirements

In 2026, edge products are increasingly evaluated not just by how they look, but by how smoothly they run through automated lines.

TREEFROG VENEER EDGEBANDING

Material innovation expands application flexibility

Edgebanding materials continue to evolve, offering a wider range of performance characteristics and aesthetics. From traditional PVC and ABS to PP, PMMA, acrylics, aluminum, and wood veneers, the material mix reflects the diversity of modern surface applications. Manufacturers are selecting edge solutions based on:

• Durability and impact resistance

• Environmental performance and recyclability

• Compatibility with high-gloss, matte, and textured surfaces

This diversity allows designers and fabricators to tailor edge solutions more precisely, but it also raises the bar for coordination across the surface stack.

Sustainability and emissions are part of the edge conversation

Sustainability considerations increasingly extend to edge treatments, especially as customers look holistically at material systems. Low-emission materials, reduced waste, and recyclability are gaining attention — particularly in markets with strict environmental requirements.

Trends influencing purchasing decisions include:

• Material choices with improved environmental profiles

• Efficient processing that minimizes scrap and rework

• Alignment with broader sustainability goals across panels and surfaces

In 2026, edge solutions are expected to support — not undermine — the sustainability claims of the finished product.

Edgebanding as part of a coordinated surface system

Edge products are no longer sourced independently. Color accuracy, long-term availability, and technical compatibility with panels, laminates, and finishes are now essential considerations.

Buyers increasingly look for:

• System-based offerings that simplify sourcing

• Long-term décor continuity across product lines

• Technical support that spans edgebanding equipment and materials

This integrated approach reduces risk, speeds development cycles, and improves overall quality outcomes. ■

PHOTOS FROM TECE

EDGE TREATMENT PRODUCTS

■ ABS

■ ACRYLIC/PMMA

■ HIGH PRESSURE LAMINATE (HPL)

■ CPL

■ MELAMINE

■ PP

■ PVC

■ WOOD VENEER (EDGEBANDING)

Arborite ■ www.arborite.com

Cefla North America ■ www.ceflafinishing.com

Crown Laminates ■ www.crownlam.com

Edgeband USA ■ www.edgebandusa.com

Edgemate ■ www.edgemate.com

Egger Wood Product ■ ■ ■ ■ www.egger.com

Emco Industrial Plastics ■ www.emcoplastics.com

Finixia ■ ■ www.finixia.com

What to watch

Several key signals will define the edgebanding and edge treatments sector in the year ahead:

1. Continued demand for nearinvisible, premium edge aesthetics

2. Greater emphasis on processing reliability in automated environments

3. Expanded material choices aligned with sustainability goals

In 2026, the edge is where design intent and manufacturing reality meet. The most successful edgebanding and edge treatment solutions will be those that deliver flawless appearance without compromising efficiency — proving that in modern surface manufacturing, the edge truly matters. ■

Formica Corp. ■ www.formica.com

Formwood Industries ■ www.formwood.com

Hopewell ■ www.hopewellplastics.com

Olon Industries ■ www.olon.ca

Panolam Industries ■ www.panolam.com

PRI Edgebanding ■ ■ ■ www.priedgebanding.com

Rehau ■ ■ ■ www.rehau.com

Sonae Industria ■ ■ www.surforma.com

Surteco North America ■

www.surteco.com

Tafisa Canada ■ www.tafisa.ca

Tece ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ www.tece.com.tr

Toppan ■ ■ www.toppan.com

Treefrog ■ www.treefrogveneer.com

Ultrapan ■ ■ ■ www.ultrapan.net

Uniboard ■ www.uniboard.com

Veneer Technologies ■ www.veneertech.com

West Wood Products ■ ■ ■ www.west-wood.net

Wilsonart ■ ■ ■ ■ www.wilsonartengineeredsurfaces.com 222

Surface Coatings in 2026

Where Finish Quality Meets Manufacturing Reality

Surface coatings play a pivotal role in how surfaces are protected, perceived, and ultimately valued.

In 2026, powder and liquid coatings are no longer evaluated solely on appearance or basic durability. They are expected to deliver repeatable performance, production efficiency, and environmental responsibility, all while supporting evolving design trends. As surface expectations rise across cabinetry, furniture, architectural panels, and components, the coatings sector is increasingly central to the success of the entire surface system.

Finish quality is rising

The bar for finish quality continues to climb. Matte and ultra-matte finishes, soft-touch surfaces, and refined sheens demand a level of consistency that leaves little room for error. At the same time, customers are less forgiving of defects such as orange peel, inconsistency, or visible touch-ups.

In response, coatings are being selected for:

• Uniform film build and appearance

• Predictable flow and leveling characteristics

• Consistent color and sheen across batches

In 2026, coatings must deliver showroom-level finishes at production scale without slowing throughput.

Beyond scratch resistance

Durability remains essential, but coatings are increasingly judged on how they perform throughout the product lifecycle. Surfaces must resist wear while maintaining their appearance under real-world use.

Key performance attributes gaining importance include:

• Chemical and stain resistance

• Resistance to fingerprints, abrasion, and microscratching

• Color stability under light exposure

Whether liquid or powder, coatings are expected to

maintain their integrity and appearance long after installation, reinforcing the value of the finished product.

Automation is reshaping coating selection

As manufacturers invest in automated finishing lines, the compatibility of coatings with high-efficiency application systems becomes a primary consideration. Robotics, conveyorized lines, and high-speed curing demand coatings that behave consistently under tightly controlled conditions. In practice, buyers are prioritizing coatings that offer:

• Stable viscosity and application windows

• Fast, reliable curing profiles

• Reduced rework and line stoppages

In 2026, the most successful coatings are those that integrate seamlessly into automated environments

— supporting productivity as much as aesthetics.

Powder coatings continue to expand their footprint

Powder coatings are gaining traction in applications where durability, efficiency, and environmental performance intersect. Advances in formulation and application are enabling powders to move beyond traditional metal substrates and into more complex components and assemblies.

Drivers behind powder growth include:

• High transfer efficiency and reduced waste

• Durable finishes with minimal VOC emissions

• Improved appearance options, including matte and textured effects

While not suitable for every application, powder coatings are

COATINGS

AKZO Nobel Coatings, Inc. www.akzonobel.com

Arauco North America www.na.arauco.com

Arkema www.arkema.com

Asian Paints PPG PVt. Ltd. www.asianpaintsppg.com

increasingly part of the conversation for manufacturers seeking efficiency and long-term performance.

Sustainability and compliance are embedded expectations

Environmental considerations are now inseparable from coating selection. Low-VOC and low-emission formulations are widely expected, and documentation supporting compliance is often required as part of the purchasing process.

Key sustainability-related trends include:

• Waterborne and low-VOC liquid coatings

• Energy-efficient curing technologies

• Reduced material waste through optimized application

In 2026, coatings that support environmental goals without compromising performance will continue to gain preference.

Coatings as part of an integrated surface system

Coatings are increasingly evaluated in the context of the entire surface stack — substrates, primers, sealers, and topcoats must work together predictably. Compatibility with MDF, plywood, fiberboard, and veneered panels is critical to achieving consistent results.

Manufacturers are looking for:

• Coating systems tailored to specific substrates

• Technical support that bridges chemistry and production

• Long-term consistency to support product lines and color programs

This systems-based approach reduces risk and accelerates development, especially for design-driven applications. ■

Axalta Coating Systems www.axaltawoodcoatings.com

BASF (North America) www.basf.com

Benjamin Moore & Co. Inc. www.benjaminmoore.com

DVUV, LLC www.dvuv.com

Eastman Chemical Co. www.eastman.com

Funder by Genesis Products www.funderamerica.com

Hempel, Inc. (North America) www.hempel.com

Indigo Paints www.indigopaints.com

IVM Chemicals/Milesi Wood Coatings www.milesi.us

Jotun www.jotun.com

Kwality Paints and Coatings Pvt. Ltd. www.kwalitypaints.co.in

Novalk USA www.novalkusa.com

PPG Industries, Inc. www.ppg.com

RPM International Inc. www.rpminc.com

DVUV

Sherwin-Williams www.sherwin-williams.com

Stahl www.wendelgroup.com

Tafisa Canada, Inc. www.tafisa.ca

Teknos www.teknos.com

Tiger Drylac U.S.A., Inc. www.tiger-coatings.com

Toppan www.toppan.com

Worthen Industries www.worthenind.com/adhesives

What to watch in 2026

In 2026, surface coatings are more than finishing materials — they are performance technologies. The coatings that stand out will be those that deliver consistent beauty, longterm durability, and manufacturing efficiency, reinforcing their role as a critical link between surface design and production success. ■

Lightweight Papers and Décor Foils in 2026

Design Agility, Efficiency, and Surface Versatility

Lightweight papers and décor foils have become essential enablers of modern surface design, offering a balance of aesthetic flexibility, manufacturing efficiency, and cost control.

As the surface and panel industry moves into 2026, these materials are no longer viewed simply as economical decorative layers. Instead, they are increasingly strategic — supporting fast-changing design cycles, scalable production, and coordinated surface systems across furniture, cabinetry, closets, and interior components.

Speed to market is a defining advantage

One of the greatest strengths of lightweight papers and décor foils is their ability to respond quickly to design trends. In an environment where color, pattern, and texture cycles continue to accelerate, these materials enable manufacturers to refresh offerings without the long development timelines associated with heavier or more complex surfaces.

In 2026, demand is driven by:

• Rapid décor development and shorter lead times

• Lower tooling and setup costs for new designs

• Flexibility for short runs and frequent updates

For many manufacturers, lightweight papers and foils

serve as the fastest path from concept to production.

Visual sophistication continues to rise

Advances in printing technology have dramatically expanded what lightweight papers and décor foils can achieve visually. Woodgrains, stones, textiles, and abstract patterns are becoming increasingly refined, with better depth, clarity, and color accuracy.

Key aesthetic trends include:

• Improved realism and tonal nuance

• Broader color palettes, from warm naturals to bold accents

• Better coordination across surface families

As these materials improve, the line between entry-level and premium aesthetics continues to blur — especially when paired with effective overlays and coatings.

Performance expectations are increasing

While lightweight papers and foils are valued for efficiency, performance requirements are also evolving. Customers expect these surfaces to hold up under everyday use and throughout the manufacturing process.

Performance considerations now include:

• Consistent impregnation and saturation behavior

• Reliable bonding and pressing performance

• Compatibility with protective overlays and coatings

In 2026, the emphasis is on predictable results: materials that run cleanly on the line and deliver consistent surface quality once finished.

Integration with automated manufacturing

As production environments become more automated, lightweight papers and décor foils must meet tighter process tolerances. Pressing consistency, material stability, and repeatability across batches are critical to maintaining throughput.

Manufacturers increasingly prioritize:

• Uniform weight and thickness

• Controlled roll quality and handling characteristics

• Predictable behavior under heat and pressure

These factors reduce downtime and support efficient,

high-volume production — key advantages for competitive manufacturers.

Sustainability through efficiency and smart material use

Sustainability conversations around lightweight papers and foils focus heavily on efficiency. Using less material while achieving the desired aesthetic aligns well with broader industry goals to reduce waste and resource consumption.

Key sustainability drivers include:

• Lower material usage per finished surface

• Responsible paper sourcing and traceability

• Efficient production processes with minimal scrap

In many cases, lightweight decorative layers enable manufacturers to deliver attractive surfaces with a smaller material footprint.

Part of a coordinated surface system

As with other surface categories, lightweight papers and décor foils are increasingly selected as part of an integrated system. Coordination with substrates, overlays, edge solutions, and finishes is essential to achieving cohesive results.

Buyers are looking for:

• Décor continuity across panels, edges, and components

• Long-term availability for repeat programs

• Technical support that bridges décor and production performance

This system-based approach reduces complexity and supports faster product development cycles. ■

DECORATIVE FOILS & LIGHTWEIGHT PAPERS

Ahlstrom-Munksjö www.munksjo.com

American Adhesive Coatings LLC. www.aacchotmelts.com

Dawei Decorative www.dawei-decor.com

Decorative Panels Group www.decorativepanels.co.uk

Interprint, Inc. www.interprint.com

LamiGraf www.lamigraf.com

Olon Industries www.olon.ca

Omnova www.omnova.com/laminates

Organoid www.organoids.com

Panel Processing Inc. www.panel.com

Schattdecor, Inc. www.schattdecor.com

Surteco North America www.surteco.com

Toppan Interamerica Inc. www.toppaninteramericainc.com

Yodean Décor www.yodean-decor.com/product

What to watch in 2026

2026 Trends in the Decorative Foils & Lightweight Papers Market

Several themes will define the lightweight papers and décor foils sector in the year ahead:

1. Continued emphasis on speed, flexibility, and design agility

2. Rising expectations for visual quality and consistency

3. Efficiency-driven sustainability as a competitive advantage

In 2026, lightweight papers and décor foils remain powerful tools for surface innovation. Their ability to combine design freedom with manufacturing efficiency ensures they will continue to play a vital role in helping manufacturers respond quickly to changing markets — without sacrificing quality or coordination. ■

Adhesives

■ HOT MELT

■ SOLVENT-BASED

■ WATER-BASED

■ HEAT SEAL COATINGS

■ PRIMERS

The Invisible Technology Holding Modern Surfaces Together

Adhesives rarely take center stage, yet they are among the most critical components in the surface and panel industry. From laminates and veneers to edgebanding and composite panels, adhesives determine whether materials perform as intended — or fail under pressure.

As the industry moves into 2026, adhesives are increasingly viewed not as commodities, but as enabling technologies that support precision manufacturing, surface integrity, and long-term durability.

Reliability and consistency are non-negotiable

In high-speed, automated production environments, adhesives must perform the same way every time. Variability in open time, viscosity, or cure behavior can quickly disrupt throughput and compromise quality.

Manufacturers are prioritizing adhesives that offer:

• Predictable bonding windows and cure profiles

• Stable viscosity under changing temperatures and conditions

• Consistent performance across production runs

In 2026, adhesive selection is as much about reducing production risk as it is about bond strength.

Adhesives are being engineered for specific surface systems

The growing complexity of surface stacks — substrates, decorative layers, coatings, and edge materials — has driven a shift away from one-size-fits-all solutions. Adhesives are increasingly formulated for specific combinations of materials and processes.

Key trends include:

• Application-specific chemistries for laminates, veneers, foils, and edges

• Improved compatibility with low-emission panels and advanced coatings

• Tailored performance for hot melt, PUR, waterborne, and reactive systems

This specialization enables stronger bonds, cleaner finishes, and more predictable outcomes.

Speed and efficiency drive adhesive innovation

As manufacturers push for shorter cycle times and higher line speeds, adhesives must support, not limit, efficiency gains. Fastsetting systems, reduced press times, and lower application weights all contribute to productivity improvements.

In practice, buyers are looking for:

• Faster curing without sacrificing bond integrity

• Lower application volumes with equal or better performance

• Reduced cleanup, maintenance, and downtime

In 2026, the most valuable adhesives are those that help manufacturers do more with less time, material, and labor.

Sustainability and emissions are shaping formulation choices

Environmental considerations continue to reshape the adhesives market. Low-VOC and low-emission requirements are increasingly standard, and customers expect transparency around chemical composition and compliance.

Key sustainability-driven trends include:

• Waterborne and solvent-free formulations

• Reduced formaldehyde and isocyanate exposure

• Improved efficiency that lowers overall material use

Importantly, sustainability in adhesives is now evaluated alongside performance. Products must meet environmental expectations without introducing new risks or compromises.

Adhesives play a critical role in surface quality

Beyond structural bonding, adhesives directly influence surface appearance. Telegraphing, read-through, edge failures, or finish defects often trace back to adhesive selection or application.

In 2026, adhesives are increasingly expected to:

• Minimize telegraphing and surface distortion

• Support clean edges and seamless transitions

• Maintain bond integrity through finishing and environmental changes

As surface aesthetics become more refined, the margin for adhesive-related defects continues to shrink.

Technical support and partnership matter more than ever

As adhesive systems become more specialized, suppliers are expected to provide more than products — they must deliver expertise. Process optimization, equipment compatibility, and troubleshooting support are increasingly part of the value equation.

Manufacturers are looking for partners who can:

• Align adhesive performance with production goals

• Support equipment setup and optimization

• Help adapt to new materials and surface trends

This collaborative approach reduces risk and accelerates innovation across the surface stack. ■

What to watch in 2026

2026 Trends in the Adhesives Market

Several signals will shape the adhesives sector in the year ahead:

1. Greater emphasis on applicationspecific, system-based solutions

2. Continued innovation driven by speed, efficiency, and automation

3. Sustainability defined by performance and transparency, not tradeoffs

In 2026, adhesives remain the invisible backbone of the surface and panel industry. The products and partners

Dow/ChemPoint www.laminatingadhesiveproducts.com

Dupont www.dupont.com

Fielco Adhesives www.fielco.com

Franklin Adhesives & Polymers www.franklinadhesivesandpolymers.com

H.B. Fuller www.hbfuller.com

Henkel www.henkel-adhesives.com

Jowat www.jowat.de

Kleiberit www.kleiberit.com

Mitsubishi Chemical Group www.us.mitsubishi-chemical.com

Panacol-USA www.panacol-usa.com

that stand out will be those that combine consistent performance, environmental responsibility, and technical expertise — ensuring that modern surfaces hold together under the demands of design, production, and everyday use. ■

Sika AG www.usa.sika.com

Solvay www.solvay.com

Surteco North America www.surteco.com

Toppan Interamerica Inc. www.toppaninteramericainc.com

Transcendia www.transcendia.com/industrial

Weiss www.usa-weiss.com

Willamette Valley Company www.wilvaco.com

Wilsonart www.wilsonart.com

Worthen Industries www.worthenind.com/adhesives

JOWAT

Technology & Software in 2026

Digital Infrastructure for a Smarter Surface Industry

Technology and software are no longer peripheral tools in the surface and panel industry — they are becoming core infrastructure. As manufacturers face tighter margins, labor constraints, and rising customer expectations, digital solutions are increasingly relied upon to drive efficiency, consistency, and insight.

Heading into 2026, technology is less about experimentation and more about practical integration: tools that connect design, production, and business systems into a cohesive, data-driven operation.

Automation moves from advantage to expectation

Automation has been steadily reshaping manufacturing, but in 2026 it is no longer a differentiator, it is an expectation. CNC equipment, robotic handling, automated finishing lines, and smart edgebanding systems are becoming standard investments across many segments of the industry.

What’s changing is how software supports these systems:

• Smarter machine control and optimization

• Real-time monitoring of production performance

• Reduced reliance on manual adjustments and tribal knowledge

Technology is increasingly expected to make automation more accessible, flexible, and resilient.

Data visibility becomes a competitive necessity

Manufacturers are collecting more data than ever, but the real value lies in turning that data into actionable insight. In 2026, software that improves visibility across operations — from order entry to finished goods — plays a critical role in decision-making.

Key areas of focus include:

• Production tracking and throughput analysis

• Downtime identification and root-cause analysis

• Material usage, yield, and waste reduction

The ability to see problems early and respond quickly can have a direct impact on profitability and customer satisfaction.

Design-to-production integration tightens

One of the most significant shifts in recent years is the closer alignment between design intent and manufacturing execution. Software platforms are increasingly bridging the gap between CAD, CAM, and shop-floor systems.

Benefits driving adoption include:

• Fewer errors from design translation

• Faster setup and changeovers

• Improved customization without sacrificing efficiency

In 2026, technology that connects design data directly to machines helps manufacturers deliver more complex, customized products at scale.

Scheduling, labor, and resource optimization take center stage

With labor availability remaining a challenge, software tools that optimize scheduling and resource allocation are becoming essential. Advanced planning systems help manufacturers make the

most of available people, machines, and materials.

Manufacturers are looking for solutions that support:

• Dynamic scheduling based on realtime conditions

• Improved labor utilization and training support

• Predictive maintenance to reduce unplanned downtime

Technology is increasingly used to stabilize operations in an unpredictable environment.

Connectivity and interoperability matter more than features

As digital ecosystems grow, the ability for systems to communicate effectively becomes just as important as individual software capabilities. In 2026, buyers are prioritizing platforms that integrate smoothly with existing equipment and enterprise systems.

Key considerations include:

• Open architectures and standardized interfaces

• Scalable solutions that grow with the business

• Reduced reliance on custom workarounds

Interoperability lowers barriers to adoption and enables incremental digital transformation.

Practical AI and analytics begin to show real value

Artificial intelligence and advanced analytics are moving beyond buzzwords into targeted, practical applications. In the surface and panel industry, AI is being used to support specific outcomes rather than wholesale transformation.

Emerging use cases include:

• Quality inspection and defect detection

• Predictive maintenance and performance forecasting

• Process optimization based on historical data

In 2026, the most effective AI solutions are those that are transparent, explainable, and easy to integrate into existing workflows.

What to watch in 2026

Technology Trends to Watch in 2026: AI, IoT, and Beyond

Several themes will shape the technology and software sector in the year ahead:

1. Increased focus on integration across design, production, and business systems 2. Greater reliance on data-driven decision-making at every level 3. Technology adoption driven by

practicality and ROI, not hype

In 2026, technology and software are foundational to how the surface and panel industry operates. The solutions that succeed will be those that simplify complexity, improve visibility, and empower manufacturers to adapt — turning digital infrastructure into a true competitive advantage. ■

Hardware & Fasteners in 2026

Precision Components in a Design-Driven, Automated World

Hardware and fasteners may be among the smallest components in the surface and panel value chain, but their impact on product performance, user experience, and manufacturing efficiency is outsized.

As the industry moves into 2026, hardware is no longer judged solely on strength or function. It is increasingly expected to support refined aesthetics, smooth operation, and compatibility with automated production while remaining reliable over the life of the product.

Hardware is integral to design, not an afterthought

In contemporary cabinetry, furniture, closets, and architectural interiors, hardware is part of the design language. Minimalist forms, concealed solutions, and coordinated finishes have elevated expectations for how hardware looks and feels.

Design-driven trends shaping the sector include:

• Clean, low-profile, and concealed hardware solutions

• Expanded finish options to coordinate with modern surfaces

• Soft-close, touch-latch, and integrated motion features

In 2026, hardware must enhance the visual and tactile experience without drawing unwanted attention to itself.

Precision and consistency are critical in automated environments

As manufacturers rely more heavily on CNC machining and automated assembly, tolerances around hardware placement and performance become increasingly tight. Even small inconsistencies can disrupt assembly or compromise fit and finish.

Manufacturers are prioritizing hardware that offers:

• Consistent dimensions and predictable performance

• Compatibility with CNC drilling and insertion systems

• Reduced adjustment requirements during installation

Precision hardware supports faster assembly, fewer errors, and more consistent finished products.

Installation efficiency influences purchasing decisions

Speed and simplicity of installation are becoming key differentiators, particularly as labor availability remains a challenge. Hardware that reduces installation time or eliminates secondary steps delivers measurable value on the shop floor.

Trends influencing adoption include:

• Tool-free or simplified mounting systems

• Pre-mounted or pre-assembled hardware options

• Designs that tolerate minor variability without compromising performance

In 2026, ease of installation is as important as durability.

Performance expectations extend beyond basic function

End users expect hardware to perform smoothly and quietly over years of use. As product quality standards rise, so do expectations for long-term reliability.

Key performance considerations include:

• Smooth motion and consistent closing forces

• Durability under repeated use

• Resistance to wear, corrosion, and environmental factors

Hardware failures are highly visible and costly, making reliability a top priority for manufacturers.

Sustainability and material choices gain visibility

Sustainability conversations increasingly include hardware and fasteners as part of the overall product system. Material selection, durability, and lifecycle performance all influence environmental impact.

Key sustainability-related trends include:

• Longer-lasting components that reduce replacement cycles

• Material efficiency and recyclability

• Responsible sourcing and transparent documentation

In 2026, sustainability in hardware is often measured by how well components perform over time — not just what they’re made from.

Hardware as part of a coordinated system

Hardware is increasingly specified as part of a broader solution rather than selected in isolation. Compatibility with panels, substrates, and edge treatments plays a growing role in purchasing decisions.

Manufacturers are looking for:

• Hardware families designed to work together

• Long-term availability for repeat programs

• Technical support that spans design, machining, and installation

This systems-based approach simplifies sourcing and supports consistent quality across product lines. ■

HARDWARE & FASTENERS

AFT Fasteners & Industrial Supply www.aftfasteners.com

Comtrad www.comtradsourcing.com

FGV America

www.fgvamerica.com

Grainger www.grainger.com

Grass America www.grassusa.com

Hafele www.hafele.com

Hettich www.hettich.com

Keeler Brass Company

www.keelerbrasscompany.com

Kesseboehmer www.kesseboehmer.com

Leola www.leolafasteners.com

Lockdowel www.lockdowel.com

Richelieu www.richelieu.com

Salice www.salice.com

Sugatsune www.sugatsune.com

Titus Group www.titusplus.com

U.S. Futaba www.usfutaba.com

Vauth Sagel www.vauth-sagel.com

What to watch in 2026

2026 Trends in the Hardware and Fasteners Market

Several signals will shape the hardware and fasteners sector in the year ahead:

1. Continued emphasis on precision and ease of installation

2. Design-forward hardware that integrates seamlessly with modern surfaces

3. Durability and sustainability defined by long-term performance

In 2026, hardware and fasteners remain essential to the success

of surface-based products. The components that stand out will be those that quietly deliver reliability, efficiency, and design alignment — proving that even the smallest details can define the quality of the finished product. ■

Tools & Machinery in 2026

Enabling Precision, Productivity, and Resilient Manufacturing

Tools and machinery sit at the heart of the surface and panel industry, translating material potential into finished products.

As the industry enters 2026, expectations for equipment extend well beyond raw power or speed. Manufacturers are looking for solutions that deliver precision, flexibility, and uptime, while integrating seamlessly with digital systems and evolving production demands. In an environment defined by labor constraints and tighter margins, tools and machinery are increasingly viewed as long-term strategic investments.

Precision and repeatability define equipment value

As surface designs become more refined and tolerances tighter, the demand for precision continues to rise. Whether cutting, routing, sanding, finishing, or edgebanding, machines must produce consistent results — shift after shift, operator after operator.

Key priorities shaping purchasing decisions include:

• Repeatable accuracy across long production runs

• Stable performance at higher speeds

• Reduced variability tied to operator input

In 2026, precision is not a premium feature, it’s a baseline expectation.

Automation is about resilience, not just speed

Automation has matured from a productivity booster into a resilience strategy. With skilled labor harder to find and retain, automated machinery helps stabilize output and maintain quality.

Manufacturers are increasingly investing in:

• Robotic handling and material movement

• Automated tool changing and setup

• Self-adjusting systems that reduce manual intervention

The goal is not just faster production, but more predictable and reliable operations.

Flexibility supports customization and shorter runs

Market demand continues to shift toward customization, shorter product cycles, and smaller batch sizes. In response,

machinery must be flexible enough to handle frequent changeovers without sacrificing efficiency.

Equipment buyers are prioritizing:

• Quick setup and changeover capabilities

• Modular systems that can be reconfigured

• Machines that support mixed production within a single shift

In 2026, flexibility is a key differentiator, particularly for manufacturers serving diverse markets.

Integration with software and data systems grows deeper

Modern tools and machinery are increasingly connected. Integration with software platforms allows machines to share data, adapt to changing conditions, and support informed decision-making.

Key integration trends include:

• Machine-level data feeding into production and analytics systems

• Digital setup parameters tied directly to design data

• Remote monitoring and diagnostics

This connectivity improves uptime, reduces errors, and supports continuous improvement

Tooling, consumables, and total cost of ownership matter more

Purchasing decisions in 2026 are less about sticker price and more about long-term value. Tool life, maintenance requirements, energy consumption, and service support all factor into ROI calculations.

Manufacturers are evaluating:

• Tooling durability and consistency

• Ease of maintenance and access to service

• Energy efficiency and operational costs

The most attractive solutions are those that deliver dependable performance while minimizing ongoing expense.

Safety, ergonomics, and workforce support gain emphasis

As automation increases, safety and ergonomics remain critical considerations. Machinery that reduces physical strain and improves operator interaction supports both productivity and workforce retention.

Key focus areas include:

• Improved guarding and safety systems

• User-friendly interfaces and diagnostics

• Training and support that reduce onboarding time

In 2026, equipment that supports people — not just processes — adds meaningful value. ■

What to watch in 2026

Trends in Machinery and Tools for 2026

Several trends will shape the tools and machinery sector in the year ahead:

1. Greater emphasis on precision, flexibility, and uptime

2. Automation adopted as a resilience and risk-management strategy

3. Deeper integration between machines and digital systems

Hymmen www.hymmen.com/en

IMA Schelling Group www.imaschelling.us

Italpresse www.italpresse.com

Kleiberit www.kleiberit.com

Laguna Tools www.lagunatools.com

Makor Group www.makor.it

Polska Grupa CNC www.pgcnc.pl

Renzo Borgonovo Srl www.borgonovo.com

Rittner Machinery www.rittermachinery.com

SCM Group www.scmgroup.com

Siempelkamp www.tomaninimpianti.it

SNX Technologies www.snxtechnologies.com

Stiles www.stilesmachinery.com

Thermwood www.thermwood.com

In 2026, tools and machinery remain the backbone of surface and panel manufacturing. The solutions that stand out will be those that combine accuracy, adaptability, and intelligence; empowering manufacturers to meet evolving demands with confidence and consistency. ■

Tomanin Impianti Srl www.tomaninimpianti.it

Trotec Laser www.troteclaser.com

VantEdge www.vtmmech.com

Venjakob www.venjakob-na.com

Weinig Holz-Her weinigusa.com

TOOLS

Leitz www.leitz.org/en-us

Leuco www.leuco.com

Original Saw Company www.originalsaw.com

Rinaldi www.rinaldi.it/en

Shopbot Tools www.shopbottools.com

Union Tool www.uniontool.com

Vortex Tools www.vortextool.com

Wagner www.wagner-group.com

Building the Workforce the Industry Needs

BY ALISHA HYSLOP

Why Education and Training Must Evolve with Manufacturing

Across manufacturing and the skilled trades, the conversation around workforce development has intensified — and for good reason. Many advanced manufacturing sectors are experiencing rapid technological change alongside persistent challenges in recruitment, training and retention. From my vantage point at Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), education and training are no longer supporting functions in this equation; they are central to the industry’s ability to grow, adapt and compete.

Career and technical education (CTE) sits at the intersection of education, industry and workforce policy. In recent years, interest in CTE has grown significantly at both the federal and state levels, driven by a shared recognition that traditional workforce pipelines are no longer sufficient on their own. While this momentum is encouraging, it also underscores the need for closer alignment between educators and employers — especially in industries where technology and processes evolve quickly.

Collaboration Is the Foundation of Effective Training

One of the most critical realities facing education today is that skill needs are changing faster than most systems were designed to accommodate. Automation, robotics, digital design tools and advanced machinery are reshaping how work is performed across manufacturing environments. Educators are committed to preparing students for these roles, but they cannot do it in isolation.

The most effective training programs are those built through active collaboration between employers and educators. Industry leaders know which technologies they are adopting, how workflows are changing and which competencies matter most on the production floor. Educators, in turn, understand

how to translate those needs into curriculum, instruction and credentialed pathways. When these perspectives come together, training becomes relevant, current and directly connected to employment opportunities.

This collaboration does not need to be complicated to be impactful. Employers engaging with local school districts, community colleges or technical colleges can influence curriculum updates, advise on equipment needs and help ensure that students are learning skills that align with real-world expectations. These partnerships also help educators anticipate emerging trends rather than reacting to them after the fact.

Technology Demands Continuous Adaptation

Technology is often framed as a threat to jobs, but in reality it is transforming them. In manufacturing, automation and robotics are not eliminating the need for skilled workers, but are changing the skills those workers must possess. This makes ongoing program evolution essential.

Educators are eager to incorporate modern technologies into their programs, and students expect to learn on equipment that reflects what they will encounter in the workplace. However, without direct input from employers, it can be difficult for schools to know which investments will have the greatest impact. Facility tours, educator externships and shared access to equipment can help bridge this gap by exposing instructors to current manufacturing environments.

When educators understand how technology is being applied on the shop floor, they can better prepare students for those realities. This alignment not only improves job readiness but also strengthens students’ confidence and engagement by

demonstrating a clear connection between classroom learning and career outcomes.

Addressing the Educator Shortage

One of the less visible — but highly consequential — challenges facing CTE today is a shortage of qualified instructors. In fields such as advanced manufacturing, skilled trades, information technology and healthcare, individuals with in-demand technical skills can often earn significantly more working in those industries than they can teaching those skills in a classroom.

This creates a difficult dynamic for education systems attempting to expand or modernize programs. Without instructors who have current industry experience, even well-designed programs struggle to scale. Employers can play a meaningful role here by exploring innovative staffing models, such as sharing employees with schools on a part-time or rotational basis. These arrangements allow students to learn directly from industry professionals while enabling companies to contribute expertise without permanently losing skilled workers.

For manufacturers, especially those using specialized equipment or processes, this approach can be a strategic investment. It strengthens the local talent pipeline while ensuring that instruction reflects their real operational demands.

Start Local, Start Small — and Build

For employers unsure where to begin, the best advice is to start locally. Most school districts have a designated CTE leader who can connect businesses with relevant programs and instructors. In some states, regional or area technical centers provide highly specialized training environments that are particularly well-suited for advanced manufacturing pathways.

Community and technical colleges are another critical partner. These institutions often offer both degree and non-credit programs designed to meet workforce needs, including shortterm training and customized upskilling. Engaging with workforce deans or development directors can help employers identify opportunities that align with immediate and long-term hiring goals.

Importantly, partnerships do not need to begin with large financial commitments. Job shadowing, classroom presentations, advisory board participation, facility tours and career fairs all provide valuable exposure for students and educators alike. Over time, these initial touchpoints often lead to deeper collaboration.

Meeting the Expectations of the Next Generation

Today’s students — particularly those entering the workforce from Generation Z — are pragmatic and purpose-driven. They want to understand how their education connects to real jobs, financial stability and long-term opportunity. Clear messaging around career pathways, wages and advancement potential resonates strongly with this audience.

Rather than framing education choices as a binary decision between college and the trades, it is far more effective to focus on outcomes. Students benefit from understanding the full range

of roles within an industry, from entry-level positions to technical specialists and leadership roles, along with the education or training required for each. When young people can see how a career progresses, and how learning supports that progression, they are more likely to engage and persist.

Pathways That Grow with Workers

As industries rethink training, there is growing interest in shorter, targeted programs that allow individuals to enter the workforce quickly. These programs are most effective when they are designed as part of a broader, connected pathway. Stackable credentials and clearly defined advancement routes ensure that early training is not a dead end, but a foundation for continued growth.

Employers have an important role to play in helping educators design these pathways. By identifying how skills build over time within their organizations, companies can support programs that align education with real career ladders. This benefits both workers and employers by encouraging retention, upskilling and internal mobility.

A Shared Responsibility

Ultimately, workforce development is a shared responsibility. Education systems cannot anticipate industry needs without employer engagement, and employers cannot expect a ready workforce without investing time and insight into training. The most successful partnerships recognize this interdependence and act on it.

For leaders across the surface and panel industry, the opportunity is clear: by engaging with education partners today, companies can help shape the workforce they will rely on tomorrow. In a rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, collaboration is not just beneficial — it is essential.

Dr. Alisha Hyslop has spent almost 25 years working in career and technical education and is currently the Chief Policy, Research & Content Officer at the national Association for Career and Technical Education. At ACTE, Alisha leads the organization’s policy, advocacy, research, program implementation and professional learning strategies to ensure educators across the CTE system have access to tools, resources and educational opportunities that enhance their ability to offer high-quality CTE programs to every learner. She has particular expertise on the Carl D. Perkins CTE Act and ACTE’s High-quality CTE Initiative. Alisha received her Bachelor’s in public relations and Family and Consumer Sciences Education from Florida State University, her Master’s in Career and Technical Education from Virginia Tech University, and her Ph.D. in Career and Workforce Education from the University of South Florida, where she developed specific knowledge of program evaluation and has served as an adjunct instructor. She can be contacted at ahyslop@acteonline.org.

Why Trade Shows Still Matter

BY JENNIFER WILLIAMS

…and Why Their Expansion Signals Industry Momentum

At a time when digital communication, remote collaboration and virtual product launches are firmly embedded in daily business, some have questioned whether large-scale trade shows still hold the same value they once did. The answer, increasingly, is yes — particularly in our materials-driven industry.

Trade shows remain one of the few environments where the industry can come together in a meaningful, holistic way. They serve as shared reference points, places where innovation is not only announced, but evaluated, compared and contextualized across markets. For sectors built around material performance, process capability and design integrity, there is no substitute for experiencing products and technologies in person.

Beyond visibility, trade shows function as accelerators of progress. They compress years of development, trend evolution and market signals into a single, concentrated moment.

Manufacturers gain insight into how peers are responding to sustainability mandates, regulatory pressure and customer demand. Designers and specifiers can compare materials side by side. Technology providers see how automation, software and machinery are being integrated into real production environments. This convergence of perspectives helps move the entire industry forward with greater clarity and alignment.

The continued expansion of major trade shows reflects this enduring relevance. Events such as KBIS, interzum, IWF and Ligna illustrate how global and regional platforms are evolving to meet new industry needs. Expanded show floors, earlier commitments from exhibitors, and broader international participation signal not only confidence in these events, but confidence in the industries they serve. Growth at this scale does not happen without clear return on investment, measured not just in leads, but in insight, partnerships and strategic direction.

“Now more than ever, suppliers need a trusted, global platform where innovation meets commercial relevance."

Mark Fischerinterzum Director

Importantly, trade shows are no longer only about products. They have become centers of knowledge exchange, offering curated content around sustainability standards, materials innovation, workforce challenges and emerging technologies. As supply chains grow more interconnected and regulatory frameworks vary by region, these forums provide essential context and help companies understand how global developments translate into local decisions.

For me personally, attending both domestic and international trade shows has proven invaluable to truly understand the scope, complexity and direction of our industry. No amount of desk research, press releases or virtual briefings can replace what happens when you walk a show floor: seeing, touching and experiencing materials and products, watching whole production lines in action, and hearing unfiltered conversations while walking

readers.

In this vein, trade shows play a critical role in strengthening industry relationships. Face-to-face interaction builds trust in ways digital communication cannot fully replicate. Long-term partnerships, collaborative innovation and cross-border business development are often accelerated — or initiated — on the show floor. In this sense, trade shows act as connective tissue for the industry, linking manufacturers, suppliers, designers, educators and decision-makers across disciplines and geographies.

The European surface and panel industry, along with its broader furniture supply chain, is undergoing profound transformation, say officials with interzum, driven by sustainability, materials innovation and shifting global market dynamics. The trade show group is expanding its platform for innovation, networking, and international market expansion in 2026, introducing new regional events in China, Columbia and Italy.

The expansion is critical, say officials, as geopolitical uncertainty, volatile energy and raw-material costs, and tightening EU regulations on emissions and sustainable sourcing continue to challenge supply-chain resilience and global competitiveness.

“Now more than ever, suppliers need a trusted, global platform where innovation meets commercial relevance,” says interzum Director Maik Fischer. “[Bringing] together the

the show floor — these experiences sharpen editorial judgment and help me distinguish between short-term noise and long-term signals that deserve deeper coverage.

Attending interzum and Ligna in 2025 really broadened my understanding of how regional priorities shape innovation. Seeing how sustainability mandates are influencing material development in Europe, how automation and scale are driving production decisions globally, or how regional markets are adapting solutions to local constraints provides context that directly informs how we tell industry stories for a North American audience. Attending U.S.-based shows including KBIS and AWFS added critical insights into distribution realities, workforce challenges and customer expectations closer to home. Together, these experiences create a more complete picture — one that allows us to connect dots across markets, anticipate emerging trends and serve as a more informed, strategic resource for our

full spectrum of global expertise — from sustainable materials and advanced surface technologies to intelligent components and high-performance machinery… is what drives the industry forward and makes interzum a must-attend event for decisionmakers worldwide.”

Another popular biannual show, IWF, is expanding its reach as well with IWF West, an all-new trade show and conference set to debut August 25–27, 2027 in San Antonio, Texas. IWF West will extend and expand IWF’s long-running Atlanta franchise in a threeday trade show built to serve both the burgeoning southwestern U.S. marketplace and IWF’s large national customer base, say officials.

Looking ahead, the evolution of trade shows will continue to mirror the evolution of the industry itself. As sustainability, automation and material performance rise in importance, so too will the need for platforms that allow these topics to be explored

in depth and in context. The growth and expansion of leading trade events that we see going into 2026 and beyond is not simply a reflection of scale, but an indicator of an industry that values collaboration, transparency and shared progress.

Key Global Trade Shows in 2026: Dates & Locations

Trade shows continue to provide invaluable opportunities for industry professionals to see new products firsthand, build strategic partnerships, and benchmark innovations against global trends.

imm Cologne looks to kick-start the new year January 20-23, 2026, in Cologne, Germany, is a reconceptualized B2B trade fair for consumer-oriented interior design.

Surface Design Show, February 3-5, 2026, in London, England, is an event dedicated to surface material innovation.

KBIS (Kitchen & Bath Industry Show), February 17–19, 2026, in Orlando, Florida, co-located with the International Builders’ Show as part of Design & Construction Week, drawing designers, manufacturers and builders focused on kitchen, bath, surfaces and integrated interiors.

imm India, March 11–14, 2026, in New Delhi, India is a new international B2B trade fair offering an exclusive platform for furniture manufacturers, designers, traders, and exporters from around the world.

interzum Guangzhou, March 28–31, 2026, in Guangzhou, China, the largest and most influential furniture production fair in Asia.

Salone del Mobile Milano, April 21–26, 2026, in Milan, Italy, a premier global furniture and design fair.

High Point Market (Spring), April 25–29, 2026, in High Point, North Carolina, featuring an extensive selection of exhibitors spanning every category, style, and price point, HPMKT is a driving force of the home furnishings industry.

interzum Bogotá, May 12–15, 2026, in Colombia, providing critical access to the Latin American market.

ICFF, May 17-19, 2026, in New York, New York, the International Contemporary Furniture Fair is North America’s leading platform for contemporary furnishing design.

interzum Forum Italy, June 4–5, 2026, in Bergamo, a boutique-style forum offering deep insight into the Southern European sector.

NeoCon, June 8–10, 2026, in Chicago, Illinois, has served as the world’s leading platform and most important event of the year for the commercial design industry since 1969.

AIA26, June 10-13, San Diego, California, the AIA Conference on Architecture & Design serves as the AEC industry’s premier annual event.

Closets Conference & Expo, June 30 – July 2, 2026, in West Palm Beach, Florida, serves the growing closets & home organization sector.

IWF (International Woodworking Fair), August 25–28, 2026 , in Atlanta, Georgia, serving as North America’s largest woodworking technology and design trade show and conference and a top destination for the global woodworking sector.

interzum Jakarta, September 24-27, 2026, in Jakarta, Indonesia, continues to serve as a marketplace for the furniture supply industry in the growth market of Indonesia.

SICAM, October 20–23, 2026, in Pordenone, Italy, the International Exhibition of Components, Accessories and

Semi-Finished Products for the Furniture Industry brings together global buyers and suppliers at a key node in the furniture supply chain.

NBMDA, November 3-5, 2026, in Dallas, Texas, this annual event for the North American Building Material Distribution Association brings together distributors, suppliers and service providers to network and learn how others are combatting to the changes and challenges of today’s distribution channel.

Editor’s Note: This list reflects many of the trade shows and industry events our team follows most closely throughout the year, based on their relevance to the surface and panel supply chain. It is not meant to be a comprehensive roundup, and we recognize that there are numerous regional, specialty and emerging events that also play an important role in shaping our industry. If there’s a show you believe should be on our radar, we always welcome hearing about it — these events help inform our coverage, conversations and connections across the industry.

25_004297_Surface_and_Panel_Q3 Mod: May 13, 2025 4:29 PM Print: 05/20/25 2:24:25 PM page 1 v7

Uline

Protect your precious cargo! From peanuts to padding, Uline has hundreds of cushioning items to fill your void. Order by 6 PM for same day shipping. Best service and selection – experience the difference. Call 1-800-295-5510 or visit uline.com

High Point Market (Fall), October 17–21, 2026, High Point, North Carolina, serves as a major year-end furniture and sourcing event.

The surface and panel industry is built on a diverse ecosystem of materials, technologies, and solutions — each playing a critical role in how products are designed, manufactured, and finished.

This section of the Surface & Panel Master Guide brings together the key product categories shaping the industry today, from foundational substrates and surfaces to the systems, technologies, and equipment that bring them to life.

Together, these categories reflect an industry focused on performance, efficiency, and innovation, offering readers a clear snapshot of the solutions driving progress across manufacturing, design, and production environments.

PLYWOOD

MATERIAL HANDLING

TECHNOLOGY

HARDWARE

ADHESIVES

PANEL PRODUCTS

PANEL PROCESSING MACHINERY

SURFACE TREATMENTS

DECORATIVE SURFACE MATERIALS

FLAT LAMINATORS

TOOLING

DECOR DESIGN

FINISHED PRODUCT PRODUCTS & SERVICES

EDGE TREATMENTS

DISTRIBUTION

SPARK DETECTION

2026 THE BEST OF THE BEST MASTERS OF THE INDUSTRY

Welcome to the ninth edition of the Surface & Panel Masters of the Industry, in which we seek to recognize the innovative companies that supply the surfacing and panel processing industries with the latest materials, technology and design. Throughout these pages, you will find leading suppliers electing to be featured in this original publication that showcases our industry’s products, processes and services.

We are truly grateful for these amazing companies that share our vision and we thank them for their continued support in this industry with this valuable, year-long reference and source of supply information.

AETNA BUILDING SOLUTIONS

In 2027, Aetna Building Solutions will celebrate its 90th anniversary! Our story began in 1937 as a humble partnership between Don Davis Sr. and Arthur Schwanke. The founders envisioned a well-diversified distribution company that offers exceptional customer service. We pride ourselves on adhering to these core principles and build on them by understanding our customers’ needs; knowing our suppliers’ facilities and capabilities and making our products readily available for quick and efficient delivery.

We are grateful for our Aetna teams who take pride in their knowledge, flexibility and relationship building abilities. Their commitment is evident in how they work together to bring our customers the very best service and products. From our product managers who purchase from world class manufacturers, to our warehouse employees and truck drivers who carefully package and deliver on time, you will experience a level of service that is unmatched.

We foster a partnership with our customers and bring them not only the products they need but the knowledge and service they deserve. They become an extension of the ever-expanding Aetna family as we welcome new customers into the fold. We thank you for letting us serve you and show that gratitude by always striving to maintain your trust and your business. Serving Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Iowa.

SERVING:

• ARCHITECTURAL MILLWORK MANUFACTURERS

• FURNITURE MANUFACTURERS

• CABINET MANUFACTURERS

• CLOSET MANUFACTURERS

• KITCHEN AND BATH DEALERS

• ARCHITECTS, DESIGNERS AND SPECIFIERS

PRODUCT CATEGORIES:

• SURFACES: HPL, QUARTZ, SOLID SURFACE, WETWALL, THINSCAPE

• COMPOSITE PANEL PRODUCTS

• PLYWOOD

OUR OTHER LOCATIONS: 2112 12th Street Rockford, IL 61108 815-968-0921

6350 Brookville Road Indianapolis, IN 46219 317-353-6281

• LUMBER

• HARDWARE

• LAMINATED PANELS

• FABRICATION

4250 Otter Lake Road White Bear Lake, MN 55110 651-407-2800

2433 Mackinwood Drive Lexington, KY 40510 859-226-5687

AMERICAN LAMINATES

PRECISION-ENGINEERED THERMALLY FUSED LAMINATED PANELS — READY WHEN YOU NEED THEM

Experience the craftsmanship behind our decorative high-specification thermally fused laminates, designed to support efficient just-in-time inventory systems.

Explore our three distinct texture lines, each crafted to deliver a unique tactile experience:

• Fine Furniture Finish – Smooth and timeless, ideal for elegant interiors.

• Real Wood Texture – Rich and deeply grained, evoking the warmth of natural wood.

• Engraved in Register – Harmoniously aligned with woodgrain visuals, offering a serene, organic feel.

Our product range includes edge-banded shelving, line-bored and grooved panels.

Please visit www.americanlaminates.com to browse our color selection and order samples.

Fine Furniture Finish Real Wood Texture

Engraved in Register

AMERICAN RENOLIT CORPORATION

RENOLIT is a globally active specialist for high-quality 3D, 2D and 1D roll laminates and decorative lightweight wood-plastic composite sheets. Around 5,000 employees continue to further develop the knowledge and expertise gained from 75 years of business at more than 30 sites.

RENOLIT creates surfacing materials which meet the highest demands in terms of design, quality, and performance. Our laminates are used on components and panels in retail interiors, healthcare office systems, hospitality, closet organization, kitchen and bath, and Caravan.

Attributes of RENOLIT laminates include excellent impact and wear resistance. Design with the flexibility of contoured shapes and seamless soft edged components. High quality laminates and products for various markets and applications are both our passion and our profession..

INTERIOR SURFACES PRODUCTS:

• RENOLIT 3D FILMS

Supplied as decorative surfacing for lamination to machined fibreboard (MDF) using a thermoforming process. Available in PET & PVC with matt, high gloss, metallic and printed designs.

• RENOLIT 2D FILMS

Recyclate Products Available

Mill Cut is an exciting new development in film technology that can be used to create paneling and other effects from a single sheet of thermoformable film

American RENOLIT Corporation

1207 E. Lincolnway | LaPorte, IN 46350

Customer Service: 219-344-5684

Sales 219-304-0269 | interiorcollection.renolit.com

The widest range of highly developed 2D industrial films to choose from, with a whole series of qualities, characteristics and processing options that cover almost every application. Available in PP, PVC, and PET.

• RENOLIT 1D FILMS

High scratch resistance and ultra smooth. RENOLIT DIAMOND is the ideal choice for surfaces in busy areas and for horizontal applications. Available in PET. RENOLITGROUP

ARAUCO

As one of the world’s largest sustainable forest product manufacturers, ARAUCO serves the casework/fixtures, fabrication, cabinetry, and architectural design industries with high-quality wood panels and laminates.

ARAUCO PRISM ® TFL COLLECTION

ARAUCO ® Prism TFL lets you design with intention with an extensive line of thermally fused laminate décors featuring authentic textures and realistic woodgrains, along with rich solids and neutrals. This exciting collection of design-forward laminates meets design, performance, budget, and sustainability challenges with a single surfacing solution for commercial and residential applications. ARAUCO also offers a wide array of unifying complementary products from prominent manufacturers to assure the project has a natural and cohesive look.

ARAUCO manufactures the particleboard and MDF substrates used in lamination, assuring quality, consistency, and balanced supply. Options for substates include moisture-resistant, firerated and VESTA ULEF technology.

RESPONSIBLE MANUFACTURING

ARAUCO co-locates its raw board mills with value-added product manufacturing in the areas of TFL, moulding and plywood. Vertical integration of production and supply chain in this manner assures predictable supply and quality and promotes efficient, environmentally responsible manufacturing.

ETHICAL SOURCING

ARAUCO panels are made from ethically sourced wood and wood fiber. ARAUCO offers panels that are certified to the FSC® Chain of Custody Standard (FSC ®-C019364). Customers are invited to ask for FSC ®-certified wood during the ordering process. North American mills are Eco-Certified (ECC) by the Composite Panel Association. ARAUCO composite panels are TSCA VI compliant, and AraucoPly ® plywood is exempt from CARB/TSCA VI regulation because it does not contain urea-formaldehyde resins.

www.arauco.com araucona.marketing@arauco.com

ATLANTIC PLYWOOD CORPORATION

Atlantic Plywood Corporation distributes a large selection of premium plywood, panel products, lumber, wood finishes, abrasives, adhesives, hardware, and related building products to a variety of woodworking industries. We provide woodworkers of all sizes with a high level of service, inventory, and knowledge from one source at a competitive price, while continually expanding our products and services. Our team of wood coating and tint specialists are highly trained and ready to provide guidance, training or color match assistance when you need it. Strong partnerships with over 200 industry leaders allow us to offer more than 50,000 products. Atlantic Plywood operates 12 distribution facilities that serve the Northeast, Midwest, and Southeast.

Atlantic Plywood is a wholly owned subsidiary of Parksite, Inc. Parksite’s corporate office is in Batavia, IL with sales and distribution centers for surfacing and panel products in Bolingbrook, IL; Lakeland, FL; Louisville, OH; South Windsor, CT, Carlstadt, NJ, Rochester, NY.

LOCATIONS:

8 Roessler Road | Woburn, MA 01801 | 800-360-3923 (CORPORATE OFFICE)

1590 John Fitch Blvd | S. Windsor, CT 06074 | 800-877-2759

N.E. Industrial Park | Guilderland Ctr, NY 12085 | 800-221-1981

1 Noyes Avenue | E. Providence, RI 02916 | 800-292-6766

75 Amor Avenue | Carlstadt, NJ 07072 | 877-672-3070

1671 Lyell Avenue | Rochester, NY 14606 | 800-801-9213

220 Smith Street | Farmingdale, NY 11735 | 800-818-0434

5319 Route 14 | S. Royalton, VT 05068 | 877-347-1406

54 Milliken Street | Portland, ME 04103 | 866-547-3042

1400 Remington Blvd | Bolingbrook, IL 60490 | 833-794-5314

540 Hog Mountain Road | Jefferson, GA 30549 | 800-899-8122

8916 Pioneer Ave., Suite B | Charlotte, NC 28273 | 800-899-8122

WE WORK WITH:

ARCHITECTS, BUILDERS, CONTRACTORS, COUNTERTOP FABRICATORS, CUSTOM CABINET SHOPS, DESIGNERS, MILLWORK HOUSES, SPECIFIERS, WOODWORKERS

KEY VENDORS:

FORMICA ®, FENIX ® INNOVATIVE MATERIALS, TRESPA ®, ARPA, EGGER, UNIBOARD ® ULTRAPAN, BLUM ®, KV, COLUMBIA FOREST PRODUCTS, GARNICA, M.L. CAMPBELL, SAYERLACK, MIRKA

LET US DO THE WORK:

• AP Architectural Panel and Door Program

• AP Redilam Laminate Panel Press Services

info@atlanticplywood.com www.atlanticplywood.com

AZDEL

Azdel has been a prominent player in the production and supplying of composite sheets to RV and specialty trailer manufacturers, laminators and distributors for two decades. The benefits in laminated walls are well documented, but the potential uses of our Azdel Onboard® brand of composite panels go far beyond that. As our portfolio of material grades, thicknesses and finishes is continually evolving, so too are applications in and out of RV’s.

Our LWRT sheets are highly versatile, both as substrates and as stand-alone pieces. Applications include but are not limited to: laminated RV walls, floors, ceilings and roofs; office and modular ceiling panels and divider walls; home and office walls and accent panels, including backsplashes; shower surrounds in and out of RVs; floor underlayment; landscaping and protective barriers; noise dampening panels, and much more. Newer applications include custom printed panels with and without matching texture, and backing for soft-touch areas with and without foam.

Azdel Onboard composite sheets are lightweight and will not rot, warp, grow mold or mildew, and will not cause nor accelerate delamination. The material is highly resistant to water, temperature and humidity and its ultra-low VOCs are nearly non-existent. Reach out or scan the code below to learn more!

BASF

ABOUT:

BASF’s acForm ® enables the production of a new wood-based material for the furniture industry. Specifically, it enables the production of a thermoplastic composite, which is storage-stable and suitable for production on existing MDF production lines. In contrast to standard thermoset boards, this new wood-based material enables a postmoldability and surface structuring of the MDF panel. This can be achieved in short cycle times by using standard furniture molders’ equipment. The increased moldability of the composite enables new design options. The 3D moldable fiberboards (3MF) can be processed into traditionally molded parts such as seat shells, seat backings, and other curved or deeply structured components. As formaldehyde is not added to the binder system, the working environment is further improved. BASF offers the possibility of producing acForm based on the biomass balance approach, using 100% bio-based raw material.

YOUR ADVANTAGES:

• TIME- AND COST-EFFICIENT PROCESS NEW DESIGN OPTIONS & HIGH SURFACE QUALITY FOR 3D WOOD FIBER PARTS

• HIGH DEGREE OF WOOD UTILIZATION

• NON-ADDED FORMALDEHYDE AND STORAGE-STABLE BINDER TECHNOLOGY

APPLICATIONS OF ACFORM:

• SHAPED FURNITURE (E.G. CHAIR PARTS)

• WALL PANELS

• FURNITURE FRONTS

• DOORS

• SPORTS EQUIPMENT (E.G. YOGABOARD)

• WHEREVER YOU WANT TO REALIZE EXTRAORDINARY DESIGNS WITH WOOD-BASED MATERIALS

11501

dpsolutions@basf.com www.basf.us/acForm

BLACK BROS. CO

Control your own panel inventory and make more profit with timetested equipment by Black Bros. Co. Established in 1882, Black Bros. is synonymous with superior coating and laminating machinery. With our robust machines and machine lines, you can efficiently produce high-quality panels for cabinets, countertops, and a wide variety of other products.

The Black Bros. TB-60 hot-roll laminator is designed to bond pre-glued decorative paper, melamine or foil to MDF or particleboard at speeds up to 100 feet per minute. Capable of running top and bottom simultaneously, this workhouse increases production and expands the variety of colors and finishes you can offer to your customers. Best of all, this top-tier laminator now comes with recipe-driven dual Servo motors for quicker and more accurate changeover. Put this one-ofa-kind machine in line with a wide variety of Black Bros. automated material-handling options for ultimate ROI!

The Black Bros. Panel Express rotary laminator is designed to laminate HPL to MDF or particleboard. When used in conjunction with high-solids PVA adhesives, the Panel Express allows you to move straight into production without the need for additional curing or press time. Six single-speed, silicone-wrapped rolls force out air and nip layers together, while four radiant heaters zap adhesive moisture dry to accelerate curing. Perfect for special order, small-batch, different-size, or expedited orders, this rotary press is capable of producing up to a panel per minute when featured in the Black Bros. automated Panel Express System, which now includes a Panel Assist Stacker to take away labor on the back end.

Black Bros. — family owned for six generations — prides itself in providing professional technical service with excellent over-night parts availability. Furthermore, our nearly 2,000 square-foot test laboratory is the perfect place to let our experience go to work for you! Demand Black Bros.’ legendary quality and dependability for your next laminating project.

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES:

• COMPLETE IN-LINE LAMINATING SYSTEMS

• ROTARY LAMINATORS

• AIR POD PRESSES

• ADHESIVE SPREADERS/ROLL COATERS

• MATERIAL HANDLING

• TECHNICAL SUPPORT AND FIELD SERVICE

• INHOUSE ENGINEERING AND TEST LABORATORY

BLUM

Blum continues to elevate design and functionality with cuttingedge products that meet the demands of contemporary spaces. One highlight is REVEGO, our pocket door system that combines sleek aesthetics with innovative performance. Ideal for creating multi-functional interiors, REVEGO pocket doors offer a clean, unobtrusive look that’s perfect for modern workspaces or living areas. The integrated push-to-open technology ensures a completely handleless design, delivering ultimate versatility and a minimalist charm.

Another breakthrough in Blum’s lineup is AVENTOS HKi, a revolutionary lift system that blends seamlessly into cabinetry. When closed, the hardware is completely hidden; when open, it reveals a refined onyx black arm, embodying sophistication. Designed for luxury kitchens and bespoke furniture, AVENTOS HKi adds an understated elegance while optimizing functionality.

Blum’s commitment to innovation ensures these products not only meet but exceed the expectations of today’s designers and homeowners.

DESIGNS OF DISTINCTION

For nearly 30 years, Designs of Distinction ® has specialized in premium decorative components and materials that bridge the gap between design and construction . Our products are trusted by manufacturers, fabricators, and designers who value craftsmanship, consistency, and innovation in architectural woodworking and interior design.

Our portfolio includes hardwood and MDF beaded panels, flexible beaded tambour, decorative grilles and mesh, metal accent trim, gallery and foot rail systems, bistro shelving, and furniture-grade components for kitchen, bath, and commercial interiors. Our proprietary Cut-to-Size Program offers materials priced by the square foot, precision cut to your specifications for easy on-site installation.

With most products made in the USA from North American hardwoods and metals , Designs of Distinction ® supports domestic manufacturing through stock products and materials, reliable lead-times, customization, and distributor partnerships. Our advanced production capabilities— laser-cutting, CNC machining, custom molding, and finishing —allow us to deliver both stock and bespoke components at scale.

As a division of Brown Wood, Inc. , Designs of Distinction ® combines nearly a century of American manufacturing expertise with forward thinking design and engineering. Our sister brand, Made-to-Spec ®, provides front-to-back custom wood product solutions for diverse markets. Whether seeking single piece replicas, volume production or complete finished goods, Made-to-Spec by Brown Wood Inc. works with you from conception to reality.

Connect with us!

Facebook & Instagram: @designsofdistinction.kbh LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/designsofdistinction

Synthetic Rattan (Radio Frequency Transparent)

800-328-5858 | info@brownwoodinc.com dod.brownwoodinc.com

Veneer Backed Beaded Panels 3/4"T x 4' x 8'

Rigid Beaded Cabinet Panels

3/4"T x 4' x 8'

MIRLUX PREMIUM PANEL CASCADE DISTRIBUTION

Introducing the latest Mirlux collection of Wood Grain finishes - a refined, top of the industry laminate that features a low gloss, ultra matte finish with an embossed subtle tactile texture for an authentic look and feel.

Offering 3 stunning options, La Pacifica, Timberline, and MidCentury Walnut, these new finishes offer superior resistance to scratches, fingerprints, stains and chemicals, as well as being a KCMA approved moisture resistant surface laminated with PUR techniques that create a complete seal, perfectly protecting the core from water damage, making it perfect for high-use, hightraffic areas.

These new finishes emulate the look and feel of natural hardwoods, with the benefit of superior performance, easy upkeep and enhanced sustainable manufacturing that exceeds regulatory European Green Standards. Unlike natural woodgrains, Mirlux wood grain finishes feature consistent color from panel to panel with UV stability to prevent yellowing and fading over time.

With these new beautiful finishes, there’s no need to compromise between style, performance, and sustainability.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCSq4OSnPHk

CEFLA NORTH AMERICA

Cefla Finishing is the global leader in the broadest range of automated finishing and coatings application equipment for the painting, decoration, and digital printing of virtually any substrate: wood, metal, glass, plastic, and composite material. From flat line finishing and coating complex 3D shapes, to industrial digital printing, we understand the interaction of materials, finishes and curing processes that create the results our customers are seeking in the furniture, panel processing, case goods, & flooring industries. With experience spanning 90 years, Cefla is at the forefront of the industry, acquiring expertise in various sectors. Through process innovation, advanced technologies, and specialized software tools, we provide many industries with an opportunity to evolve. Today, Cefla creates business partnerships and ensures integrated solutions which are designed according to client requirements and objectives. Cefla’s wealth of patented technologies pioneer the digitalization process to embrace the advantages of Industry 4.0.

PRODUCTS MADE IN THE USA

• UNIDRY-G GAS DRYING TECHNOLOGY

• CVR VACUUM IR FINISHING SYSTEM

• CVS VACUUM UV FINISHING SYSTEM

• MATERIAL HANDLING CONVEYORS

• FLXDRY MOBILE DRYING SOLUTION

PRODUCTS MADE IN ITALY

Reciprocating Spray Machines • Anthropomorphic Robotic Spray Solutions • Roll Coating • Vacuum Coating • Curtain Coating

• Industrial Automation & Material Handling • Industrial Digital Printing

• Linear & Vertical Ovens

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO DISCOVER MORE OF THE LATEST FINISHING SOLUTIONS.

6125 Harris Technology Blvd Charlotte, NC 28269 USA

+1 704-598-0020 | info@ceflaamerica.com www.ceflafinishing.com

CHOICE MACHINERY GROUP

From Purpose-Built Machines to Fully Automated Systems

Choice Machinery Group delivers the right solution for your application—whether it’s a standalone machine designed for precision or a fully integrated process system engineered for maximum throughput. Our equipment helps manufacturers boost efficiency, improve quality, and cut unskilled labor by up to 50%.

Our portfolio includes two iconic American-made brands: Ritter Machinery, the Cabinetmaker’s Brand, trusted for rugged, userfriendly woodworking equipment across North America, and Evans Midwest, a leader in laminating and postforming systems ranging from entry-level machines to complex, automated lines. With the addition of Forefront Control Systems, we’ve expanded our automation expertise to deliver even smarter, more efficient manufacturing solutions.

But it’s not just about machinery—it’s about the people behind it. From the first phone call through installation and beyond, our team is dedicated to making sure every project is handled with care.

Learn more at choicemachinerygroup.com

MACHINERY:

• Panel Laminating Machinery

• Countertop/Postforming Machinery

• Sip Production Laminating Machinery

• 3D Laminating Machinery

• Material Handling

• Custom Automated Systems

INDUSTRIES SERVED

• Secondary Wood Processing

• Furniture

• Case Goods

• Building Materials

• Aviation

ClosetPro Software

ClosetPro Software is a cutting-edge closet design and presentation tool built for closet and cabinetry professionals. ClosetPro Software makes it easy for you to design in 3D and then share beautiful hi-res renders and an interactive 3D view with your customers, helping them envision their new space. Real-time pricing will allow you to provide your customers with an accurate quote on the spot. Quickly generate a PDF or online proposal that will allow your customers to pay directly through the system. It’s never been easier to design and sell beautiful closets in stunning 3D!

For manufacturers looking to manage their dealers or simply add closets as a new line of business, ClosetPro Software can help you get started. You can use our system to cut parts for dealers across the country, they simply register in your ClosetPro system and have access to your offering. ClosetPro Software provides cutlists, hardware quantities, and elevations for installation. You can also export designs directly to a CAM software for machining.

Visit www.closetprosoftware.com for more information on features and pricing, or to schedule a live demo of the system.

Key ClosetPro Software features include:

• Design in stunning 3D

• Create amazing hi-res renders for your customers

• Export your designs directly to CAM software for machining

• Manage your dealers all in one place, from design to sale

• Real-time pricing updates as you make changes

• Generate PDF or online proposals in seconds

• Accept payments through the system to expedite the sale

CNC Factory

CNC Factory (cncfactory.com) Makes possible owing a CNC machine with guaranteed financing for the wood industry, 24/7 interactive support, factory direct pricing and 5th generation ease of use, gives the new and established wood shops the possibility to make owning a CNC a reality.

CNC Factory machines are perfect for custom cabinetry, intricate carvings, to large-scale production. By automating tasks like cutting, drilling, and milling, CNC Factory machines drastically reduce waste, cut labor costs, and speed up production, offering a significant competitive edge over traditional methods for both entry level and high-volume shops.

Whether you're crafting RTA furniture or high-volume cabinet components, CNC Factory provides the advanced, reliable machines needed to elevate your woodworking business, turning complex ideas into perfectly executed products with incredible speed and accuracy, all while being easy to use and maximizing your profit margins.

CNC Factory Key Points:

• We Make It Possible: With guaranteed financing, ease of use and factory direct pricing we make it possible to own a CNC machine.

• Efficiency Boost: Automate repetitive tasks, cut production time, and increase output from days to hours.

• Profitability: Reduce waste and labor, enabling higher margins and scalable CNC machines.

• 5th Generation Empowerment: Interactive screen controls, on board robotic printing, no daily homing/calibration and awardwinning ease of use

COMTRAD

For over 50 years, Comtrad Strategic Sourcing has supplied professional K&B cabinetmakers, commercial case goods companies, furniture builders, closet designers, RV, Heavy Truck, and boat builders with premium hardware engineered for real-world performance. Our products are built to exceed all North American industry standards for cycle testing, load capacity, and dimensional tolerance — because professionals can’t afford failure in the field.

The CGS line delivers functional hardware designed for demanding, high-traffic applications. From cushion-close (soft-close) ball bearing slides, hinges, Slat wall & accessories and closet hardware to our Allegro metal drawer system and heavy-duty standards and brackets, every component is engineered for strength, durability, and smooth motion. We also offer heavy-duty ball bearing slides ranging from 150 lbs to 500 lbs making them ideal for wider drawers, utility storage, and any application where strength and reliability are critical.

Leading the lineup is the CGS Platinum — a premium, North American-designed ball bearing drawer slide built with performance you can feel with every pull. CGS Platinum is tested to 2X BIFMA and 4X KCMA standards which exceeds 100,000 open and closing cycles. With a 100-lb dynamic load rating, CGS Platinum ensures silent, controlled operation and precise drawer alignment. Its heavy gauge steel construction and precision-fit tolerances deliver long-term stability under heavy use.

Every CGS slide is backed by a lifetime warranty because peace of mind matters. With Comtrad, professionals get more than hardware: they get components that perform flawlessly, install easily, and stand the test of time.

Proud member of NBMDA / CMA / ACSP / NKBA / KCMA / CKCA / AFDIQ / AWFS / BIFMA / AWI

CONESTOGA WOOD SPECIALTIES

Vogue Thermally Textured Surfaces

Designed to Impress. Engineered to Endure.

Whether you're building dream kitchens, outfitting high-traffic retail, or specifying materials for schools and healthcare facilities, Vogue TTS is engineered for real-world performance without compromising on design.

Key Features

• Antibacterial Protection Kills up to 99% of bacteria on contact within 24 hours— built in for life.

• Extreme Stability Performs in high-humidity and fluctuating environments.

• Easy to Work With Consistent, and contractor-friendly.

• Versatile Applications From homes and retail to schools and healthcare settings.

• Smart Value High-end look and feel without the premium price tag.

Finishes

Available in a curated palette of on-trend woodgrains and finishes.

DACKOR

ABOUT US:

Dackor specializes in laminates that can be utilized by manufacturers, installers, designers, or architects. Dackor laminates can be employed to create compelling retail environments, modern living spaces, hospitality atmospheres, or lively office settings. We carry trending colors and textures to fit your design needs. Dackor offers special services like small roll program, slitting, and protective peel-coat applications.

Dackor is the go-to provider of continuous 2D laminates for flat lamination, profile wrapping and 3D Laminate thermofoils for membrane vacuum pressing. Due to having the largest inventory in North America, we ship daily to manufacturers of components, kitchens, closets, store fixtures, recreational vehicle tops, healthcare furniture, and wall cladding so that your project or product is received on time.

In addition, we produce our laminates to match TFL, MDF, Edgebanding and our surfaces can be laminated to Phenolic (HPL), Board, Plastics or Peel and Stick backed.

COATING:

Dackor also possesses the first 60” wide-format hot coating line in North America. Features include dual melters, two lacquer/UV coating stations, excimer with nitrogen for super-matte & custom embossing line. For coating papers, PVCs and PETs up to 5,000 taber abrasion. Various textures and gloss levels are possible for interior and exterior applications.

Our ultimate goal is to offer “the complete surfacing solution.”

To learn more about our coating services and capabilities, please visit www.dackor.com/coating or scan the QR code on the right.

DAUBERT CHEMICAL COMPANY

Daubond adhesives are high-performance solutions tailored for thermoforming, lamination, and assembly applications. We bring unmatched expertise, customized solutions, and dedicated support to every client project. Our extensive product range is designed to meet specific application needs, with each formulation engineered to meet or exceed industry standards. With Daubert, you get more than adhesives—you get a partnership from start to finish, ensuring precision and performance that make the difference.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS:

• FLAT LAMINATION

• 3D MEMBRANE PRESS

• PROFILE WRAPPING

• EDGEBANDING

• HIGH DURABILITY PUR COATINGS

• ASSEMBLY BONDING

Since 1935, Daubert Chemical Company has led the way in specialty coatings and adhesives, serving key industries including steel, automotive, transportation, and general manufacturing. With a strong focus on performance and protection, Daubert offers an extensive product line that includes corrosion prevention coatings, industrial anti-skid coatings, sound-deadening solutions, and specialty adhesives. This diverse range of products is designed to meet the unique challenges faced by industrial manufacturers, reinforcing Daubert’s commitment to quality and reliability.

DAUBERT CHEMISTRIES:

• HOT MELT PUR (POLYURETHANE) ADHESIVES

• LIQUID PUR (POLYURETHANE) ADHESIVES

• EPOXY ADHESIVES

• POLYURETHANE DISPERSIONS

• VINYL TO METAL ADHESIVES

4700 S. Central Avenue Chicago, IL 60638

Phone: 866-368-3983 | Fax: 708-496-7367 www.daubertchemical.com

DEERWOOD FASTENERS

Deerwood Fasteners has been a leader in supplying fasteners to the kitchen cabinet and furniture industries since 1972. They offer a wide variety of fasteners for the woodworking, cabinet and institutional furniture industry. Selling mostly through distribution, Deerwood offers both a bulk and packaged fastener program. Over 90% of the products we sell, are manufactured in our own facilities. Our employees are dedicated and focused on accurate, and complete on-time deliveries. Deerwood Fasteners also provides engineering support to help our manufacturing and distribution partners consolidate inventories, design new products and develop programs to increase efficiencies. Deerwood Fasteners is a division of Pan American Screw and a member of the Marmon / Berkshire-Hathaway organization. Deerwood Fasteners offer full container and partial container direct sales as well as inventory management programs designed specifically for each customer’s needs. Come and experience the “Deerwood Difference” today.

DVUV

DVUV is the world leader in UV cured powder coatings on MDF, Medium Density Fiberboard. We combine over 30 years of finishing experience with a technology that delivers high quality powder coated MDF components. Our single step finishing process takes only 20 minutes and is 40-60% more energy efficient than thermoset powder coatings for MDF.

OUR PRODUCTS:

UVMax ® UV curable powder is solvent free, non-toxic, and contains no VOCs or HAPs. The MDF used is 100% pre-consumer recycled content, CARB compliant, and qualifies for LEED credits. Custom color matching is available to any color, texture, and gloss and antimicrobial additive protection is also available.

HOW WE WORK:

We make it easy: you give us a drawing, quantities, and a color standard. We match your finish, source the MDF, route and coat it, then pack and ship the parts directly to you. If you are interested in setting up your own wood powder coating line, we assist with the design, installation, and system support.

INDUSTRIES

WE SERVE:

• RETAIL

• OFFICE

• HEALTHCARE

• HOSPITALITY

• EDUCATION

EXAMPLES OF WORK:

• STORE FIXTURES

• ERGONOMIC DESKS

• TEACHERS DESKS

• SCIENCE TABLES

• CABINETRY

• MEDICAL CARTS

• ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS

SEE FOR YOURSELF - REQUEST A SAMPLE

To request a powder coated MDF sample please visit www.dvuv.com/samples or scan the QR code on the right.

Youtube URL: https://youtu.be/WCuQhjqzSLI?si=_iqYpD9-WOcmuo3A

EGGER WOOD PRODUCTS

When it comes to engineered wood-based decorative surfaces, EGGER’s thermally fused laminates (TFL) set a new standard. These high-quality, sustainable panels bring versatility and design freedom to interiors with authentic woodgrain and material reproductions, along with a wide range of solid colors.

Made by permanently fusing decorative paper to both sides of a particleboard core, EGGER TFL saves processing time and reduces costs compared to alternatives like plywood or wood veneer — without compromising on durability, performance or aesthetics. Through the EGGER Decor Match System, fabricators, architects and designers can source perfectly coordinated TFL, laminates and edgebanding — all from one trusted supplier. This streamlined approach saves valuable time and ensures the best possible match in color and texture across surfaces.

Thanks to the company’s trusted partnerships with complementary product and cabinet door manufacturers, customers can also easily order 3D Laminates, door mouldings or pre-fabricated cabinet doors, all in EGGER-matched decors, for seamless, harmonious designs.

As a global leader in wood-based solutions, EGGER continues to invest in North America. Its $550 million state-of-the-art particleboard and TFL plant in Lexington, N.C. demonstrates a long-term commitment to supporting customers across the region — with additional investments already planned for the future.

ELECTRONIC WOOD SYSTEMS

EWS North America supplies a variety of equipment to the engineered wood panel market and secondary industries. Since 1993 EWS has worked to bring a growing variety of solutions to our customers mostly around quality control, inspection, measuring and safety.

• Blow detection

• Thickness measuring

• Non-contact scales

• Area-weight gauge

• Foreign body detection

• In-line moisture measuring of panel, film, paper, mat, fiber, and more

• Panel surface & edge inspection

• Drill hole counting surface & edge

• Panel dimension measuring

• Panel warp/deformation measurement

• Resin/glue detection

• Panel profile inspection

• In-line panel density measuring

• Lab density profile

• Odor & dust control solutions

• Life extending components for heavy equipment

• Wastewater solutions and more

• Quick and efficient field and remote support

FAGUS GRECON INC.

Since 1911, Fagus-GreCon has created and applied innovative technology to maximize production. Our goal remains to assist our customers by providing technologically advanced equipment to ensure safer facilities, optimized production, and verifiable product quality to their customers.

GRECON SPARK DETECTION AND EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS:

• Eliminates Ignition sources before fires and explosions can occur.

• GreCon spark detection and extinguishing systems help make your facility safer, maintain production up-time, minimize equipment damage, and reduce insurance premiums.

• Meets NFPA 660 standard and is FM approved.

GRECON MEASURING EQUIPMENT:

We offer measuring systems to our customers in the wood based panel industry to record and process almost every relevant measuring need and size with the goal to save you money.

• Thickness Measurement • Blow Detection • Fiber Inspection

• Moisture Measurement • Length Control

• Optimization of Material Distribution • Edge Inspection

• Multiple Lab Measuring Devices • Formaldehyde Gas Analysis

FEATURED MEASURING PRODUCTS:

• GRECON FORMALDEHYDE GAS ANALYZER MC

• Precise Formaldehyde determination in just 15 minutes, without wet chemistry.

• GRECON EDGE INSPECTOR

• Uses 3D laser technology. It sees precise edge defects where camera-based systems fail.

• GRECON FORMATOR

• Reduces material cost, improves quality and helps reduce process costs.

• Using a combination of a segmented scalper and an x-ray scanner (MATCONTROL) the system improves the material distribution of the mat.

648-A Griffith Rd, Charlotte, NC 28217

Phone: 704-912-0000 | Fax: 704-973-9733

www.fagus-grecon.com

FELDER GROUP

Tradition - Innovation - Perfection: A decision without risk

The Felder Group is one of the world’s leading mechanical engineering and technology companies in the field of wood and composite material processing. Each day, more than 800 employees work at the factory in Hall in Tyrol to find intelligent solutions for woodworkers all around the world. The Felder Group’s range of products includes well over 180 machines — from combined standard woodworking machines to high-end 5-axis CNC machining centers as well as smart software and fully automated robotics solutions.

Our goal at Felder is to challenge our limits and build the best woodworking machines today and for the future, with respect for our customers and for the environment. This approach is reinforced with every machine that leaves our factory in Hall in Tyrol.

With consistent innovation and engineering technologies, and constantly setting new standards we are able to meet the individual requirements of trade, commerce and industry without compromise with brands such as Felder, Format4, Hammer and Mayer.

“There is a constant development of new materials and technical possibilities. Our greatest assets are the decades of experience and constant, uncompromising research. It is important to recognize trends and stay on top of the game by investing in new technologies. No matter where the markets are heading, we will be there.”

-Hansjörg and Martin Felder, Managing directors of Felder Group

Tel: 866-792-5288

www.feldergroupusa.com

sales-us@felder-group.com

FENIX ® INNOVATIVE MATERIALS

Versatile and forward-thinking, FENIX ® Innovative Materials offer an inspiring foundation for contemporary design. Suitable for both commercial and residential environments, FENIX ® can be used for furniture, countertops, doors, walls and partitions. FENIX ® brings refined style and performance to kitchens, bathrooms, living areas, offices, hospitality spaces and transportation interiors.

Developed through a unique series of advanced manufacturing processes, including multilayer coating and next-generation acrylic resins cured with Electron Beam technology, FENIX ® surfaces combine striking beauty with exceptional performance. The result is an ultra-matte, soft-touch surface that resists scratches, abrasion, heat and fingerprints.

FENIX ® materials feature a nonporous exterior that stays clean with basic care and cleaning and is suitable for contact with food. Thanks to their innovative composition, micro-scratches can even be thermally healed which helps the surface maintain its sleek, pristine appearance over time.

With their refined look, durability and tactile appeal, FENIX ® Innovative Materials offer designers and fabricators the freedom to bring elegant, modern ideas to life across any environment.

FORMICA CORPORATION

Most people know Formica Corporation for its 300+ laminate decors, featuring industry-leading woodgrains, on-trend patterns and timeless solid colors for commercial and residential interiors. As the inventor of decorative laminate in 1913, Formica Corporation is synonymous with beautiful, durable surfaces.

But thinking Formica Corporation only offers laminate would be a disservice to designers and specifiers. The company’s extensive portfolio delivers solutions for nearly any environment, combining performance, style and versatility:

• Formica® Brand Laminate , including premium collections such as 180fx ® and InDepth Surfacing™ for elevated depth and realism.

• FENIX ® Innovative Materials , featuring ultra-matte, soft-touch surfaces with advanced resistance to scratches and fingerprints.

• Everform ® Solid Surface , a durable, nonporous option ideal for worktables, bar tops, sinks and shower surrounds.

• Homapal ® Metal Laminates , offering refined metallic finishes that bring craftsmanship and modern design together.

• Trespa ® TopLab ®, engineered for high performance in demanding interior applications.

• HardStop ® Decorative Protection Panels , featuring a fiberglass core for durability, strength and a Class A fire rating.

• ColorCore ®2 Laminate , with color that goes all the way through –enhanced durability with no dark edge.

• Arpa ® HPL offers Italian-made designs that elegantly integrate into spaces with expressive creativity.

Let Formica Corporation help bring your design vision to life.

FRAMA-TECH

Founded in 1983, Frama-Tech is the #1 edgebanding distributor in North America. Frama-Tech provides a comprehensive range of products including, PVC & ABS edgebanding, metallic edgebanding, wood veneer edgebanding, digitally printed edgebanding, and hotmelt adhesives. Frama-Tech has a strong commitment to innovation and customer service and is known for it’s large availability of products and wide range of SKUs. Frama-Tech serves woodworkers across North America with a variety of shipping options and willcall pickup from their distribution centers in Los Angeles California, Dallas Texas, and Chicago Illinois.

Buying edgebanding has never been easier with Frama-Tech’s online shopping experience that showcases real-time inventory and live pricing information. Quantity discounts are available for bulk orders and there are no minimum order quantities. Frama-Tech matches 40+ laminate brands including: Egger, Wilsonart, Formica, Abet Laminati and many many more.

Buy edgebanding online at www.framatech.com

FRANKLIN ADHESIVES & POLYMERS

Franklin Adhesives & Polymers, a division of Franklin International, is a global leader in the development and manufacture of high-performance wood adhesives, pressure sensitive adhesives, and specialty polymers. Our wood adhesives serve the furniture, millwork, and engineered-lamination industries, while our water-based PSAs support tape, label, and graphic applications. Family-owned and operated since 1935, we remain committed to fostering and enhancing the industry.

Products Built for Unmatched Performance Wood Assembly | Edge & Face Gluing Panel Lamination | Finger Jointing

PRODUCTS:

• ONE- AND TWO-PART PVA EMULSION ADHESIVES

• RADIO FREQUENCY, HOT AND COLD PRESS

• COMPATIBLE ADHESIVES

LA MINATING 465

Engineered for Fire-Rated Applications

This one-part, crosslinking PVA emulsion adhesive is designed for bonding HPL and wood veneer to borated substrates—including MDF, particleboard, and fiberboard. Ideal for office furniture, cabinets, case goods, and decorative panels in spaces where fire code compliance is paramount. Laminating 465 delivers:

• Excellent adhesion with no-added formaldehyde (NAF)

• Compatibility with borated cores for fire-rated panel applications

• Versatility in hot and cold press operations

• Water-based cleanup and excellent shelf life

FIND YOUR FRANKLIN FIT - Scan the QR code or visit franklinap.com to explore our full product line and connect with an adhesive expert.

GDP TOOLING

SERVING NORTH AMERICA SINCE 1986

GDP Tooling, formerly operating under the GUHDO banner, has established itself as a trusted provider for panel processing tooling solutions. Our extensive and high-quality tooling program has made us a go-to source for businesses across the industry.

OUR COMPREHENSIVE TOOLING PROGRAM

All products meet rigorous European DIN standards for quality, precision, and safety:

• Polycrystalline Diamond (PCD) Tools

• Carbide Insert Tooling

• Circular Saw Blades for Beam/Panel Saws

• Routing and Milling Tools

• Tool Holders and Clamping Systems

• Drilling and Boring Solutions

• Aggregate Heads

• Tool Presetters

ADVANCED TOOL SERVICING

Our state-of-the-art service center is equipped with precision German grinding equipment, ensuring fast and cost-effective turnaround times. Streamlined processes allow us to deliver top-tier servicing that meets the needs of even the most demanding applications.

PROUDLY SERVING NORTH AND CENTRAL AMERICA

From our warehouse and service center in the Atlanta, GA metropolitan area, we provide exceptional tooling solutions and services across North and Central America.

GENESIS PRODUCTS

Genesis Products is the most comprehensive U.S. supplier of laminate components and panels, we drive the industry forward with a unique blend of scalable capacity and customer-centric solutions. At Genesis Products, we put every resource to work for you. Our expertise in industrial wood is built on years of investing – in our engineering, our materials, and our people. Because without investment, there can be no innovation.

Genesis Products operates 14 facilities with over 1,200,000 square feet of production capacity servicing the Cabinet & Storage, Store Fixture, Office & Education, Recreational Vehicle, Furniture and Healthcare Industries.

FUNDER by Genesis Products is one of the oldest, largest and most diversified TFL panel and component manufacturers in North America with 50 years of experience. Funders TFL panels and components feature decorative surfaces with enhanced visual appeal and excellent scratch and wear resistance. They are available in a variety of sizes, thicknesses, textures, and designs.

PRODUCTS:

• CABINET DOORS

• LAMINATED PANELS

• TFL PANELS

• TFL PLYWOOD PANELS

• SHELVING

• PANEL PROCESSING

• HPL PANELS & DESK-TOPS

• 3DL THERMOFOIL COMPONENTS

• WRAPPED MOULDINGS

• DRAWER BOXES & RAILS

• POWDER COATED PRODUCTS

• GLOBAL SOURCING & SUPPLY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOqFq7NyJyE

GIARDINA GROUP

GiardinaGroup is a world leader in finishing technologies for wood, glass, composite materials, plastics and metal. It is born from the merger of Mauri Machine and Giardina Finishing, both of which were founded in the early 1970s. It also includes the very recent acquisition of De Stefani, which added 40 years of sanding experience from the company, based in Birone di Giussano (Monza Brianza).

GiardinaGroup specializes in the design, development and production of machines. We do complete installations for roller coating, curtain and spray coating; automated and robotized lines with hot air, UV or micro-wave drying systems; overhead lines for painting window frames or three-dimensional pieces, spray booths, and sanding solutions for edges, profiles and surfaces.

GiardinaGroup has two main manufacturing sites: In January 2018 all the production activities connected with finishing were brought together in the large space in Figino Serenza (Como, Italy), the historical site of Giardina Finishing, whereas the design and manufacturing of the sanding solutions will still go on in the De Stefani facilities in Birone di Giussano (Monza Brianza).

4850 Crittenden Drive, Suite 4B

Louisville, KY 40209

Phone: 502-361-1003 | Fax: 502-361-2003

info@giardinausa.com | www.giardinausa.com

GRASS AMERICA INC.

Functional Hardware is more than just metal, plastic, and fittings; it’s the connection that brings cabinetry to life. Whether it’s a craftsman creating one-of-a-kind pieces in their workshop or a multi-million-dollar manufacturing facility supplying retail stores, Grass provides the movement systems that enhance the homeowner’s experience beyond the design and finish. For over 75 years, Grass has delivered quality-driven functional hardware that, like us, withstands the test of time. Our mission is to create innovative, world-class movement systems that energize and stimulate the ideas that carry the industry forward. Quality is at the forefront of everything we do, extending beyond the physical product and into the shop, where thoughtful features and unmatched customer service keep your shop running smoothly.

We are proud to serve the industry with top-of-line hinges, drawer slides, drawer systems, and lifter systems.

OUR PORTFOLIO OF SYSTEMS INCLUDES:

• CONCEALED HINGES, FRAME & FRAMELESS

• DOUBLE-WALL METAL DRAWER SYSTEMS

• METAL DRAWER SYSTEMS

• UNDERMOUNT SLIDES

• AUTOMATIC OPENING DEVICES

• ASSEMBLY AIDS AND MACHINERY

Grass America is a quality-driven manufacturer of functional hardware and accessories for residential and commercial cabinetry. Founded in 1977, our first-class movement systems can be found in kitchens, baths, and office facilities across the United States. Our manufacturing facility, located in North Carolina, is supported by distribution points across the country and a staff of dedicated industry professionals with customer service as their focus. Visit us at www.grassusa.com and explore the full line of innovative hardware solutions Grass offers.

| www.grassusa.com

GUFFEY SYSTEMS

Guffey Systems develops smarter finishing solutions for woodworking and other manufacturing professionals who want to streamline their workflow and increase production efficiency. Founded by third-generation cabinetmaker Nathan Guffey, the company was born from firsthand experience with the inefficiencies of traditional finishing—and a belief that there had to be a better way.

Our patented PivotPoint™ and PivotLine® vertical finishing systems offer contactless finishing that increases throughput and reduces material handling. Compared to traditional racks, or even large-scale automated flatline systems, Guffey Systems delivers faster production at a fraction of the cost—without compromising quality.

In 2025, we expanded our offering with the Flex Spray™ product line. This includes the Flex Spray Station™, a flexible and scalable spray booth that arrives fully assembled and ready to spray within hours, and Flex Spray Connect™, a portable finishing system equipped with our patented mobile rails and our new mobile rail connector. The rails link together to form a dynamic, portable spray area that can be repositioned within a spray booth as needed—offering unmatched adaptability and efficiency.

What Sets Us Apart?

• Precision-engineered and proudly made in the USA

• Industrial-strength and built to last

• Highly flexible and modular—easily scaled to any shop size

• Designed for use with water- and solvent-based coatings

• Built to reduce material handling, floor space usage, and finishing bottlenecks

• A complete system approach—from hangers to hubs to spray booths

HETTICH

AVANTECH YOU: DRAWERS AS YOU PLEASE

AvanTech YOU speaks a new, sleekly linear design language. The slender drawer side profiles in impeccably purist design come in a thickness of only 13mm and are entirely without any visible holes, apertures or cover caps. This permits handleless design in uncompromising perfection both inside and out. Given the ease with which a drawer can be customized in terms of color, shape and material, furniture manufacturers and buyers of furniture can both stand out from the crowd. The drawers can be configured in three colors and five heights with steel, aluminum or wooden rear panels. Even within the product range, designer profiles in stainless steel, chrome and aluminum look or walnut and oak look, DesignCapes in anodized aluminum and stainless steel look as well as the AvanTech YOU Inlay drawer side profile all create a huge variety of individualized attractive solutions. This opens up the potential for kitchen and furniture manufacturers to set themselves apart from the competition: with their own furniture design in different price segments, targeted response to customer wishes and the system’s tremendous cost effectiveness.

NEW!

Give your furniture its very own lighting signature with AvanTech YOU Illumination: clip on design profiles with integrated, homogeneous LED light illuminate the inside of the drawer when it’s open or make a stunning statement on the outside of the drawer.

Exclusive highlights too are the illuminated glass inlays, either with polished or ground edges for distinctive lighting effects.

Operated by rechargeable battery, there’s no need for any connection to mains power. No plug—just play!

Design distinctive drawers with Hettich

HOMAPAL ® METAL LAMINATES

Homapal ® Metal Laminates bring the artistry of real metal laminates, magnetic laminates, and solid metal sheets to modern interiors, combining German craftsmanship with global design innovation. Now unified under the Homapal ® name, these decorative metal laminates – formerly known as DecoMetal ® –continue the same legacy of quality and creativity in a new era for the brand.

The newest Homapal ® Metal Laminate Collection introduces new designs curated to reflect today’s evolving commercial aesthetic. Additions to the Elements, Gestures and Perspectives series feature simple metals, handcrafted/scratched effects, and deep textured finishes, each inspired by extensive research into contemporary design trends.

Homapal ® Metal Laminates offer endless design potential for vertical applications in hospitality, retail, corporate, healthcare and wellness spaces. From understated sophistication to bold architectural statements, they empower architects, interior designers and fabricators to create distinctive, high-impact environments with true “wow factor.”

HUTTON FOREST PRODUCTS

Hutton Forest Products is a versatile sales, marketing, and distribution group that represents various mills from around the globe. We proudly supply products across Canada and the United States.

At Hutton, our partnership approach to business is what sets us apart. We strive to help both our suppliers and customers grow through our unwavering business model: sourcing and stocking best-in-class products, innovative logistics and supply chain solutions, strong industry and product knowledge, high impact solutions and world-class service.

We thank all our partners for 20 years of dedicated service.

PROUD PARTNER OF THE BEST IN THE INDUSTRY

VALUE-ADDED SERVICES:

• CUSTOM CUTTING SERVICES

• MEDIUM DENSITY FIBERBOARD (MDF)

• MOISTURE AND FIRE-RESISTANT PANEL STOCK

• PLYWOOD

• PARTICLEBOARD

• MDO

• SHELVING AND SLATWALL

• MELAMINE, FOIL, AND HPL LAMINATION SERVICES

• PAINT SERVICES

IMEAS, INC.

Entering our 60th year of business in 2026, our simple, yet ambitious vision to revolutionize industrial processes has placed IMEAS on the forefront of industrial machinery innovation, setting benchmarks in quality and reliability. As the industrial landscape shifts towards digitization, IMEAS is positioned to lead with a robust infrastructure and forward-thinking approach that supports remote monitoring, data analytics, and seamless ERP integration.

Our customers understand that the substantial design, excellent calibration, and ease of use of IMEAS surface finishing equipment provides unsurpassed competitive advantage and years of reliable production, with many machines still in service after decades of operation.

IMEAS engineering and service excellence epitomizes its dedication to leveraging technology to optimize efficiency, enhance productivity, and ensure superior quality with industry 4.0 integration in its product lines:

• Metals (grinding, polishing & brushing)

o Coil

o Sheet

o Plate

• Engineered Wood

o CLT and Glulam (2 & 4 sides)

o Plywood

o Composite Panel

• Engineered Materials

o Plastic

o Rubber

o Laminates

INTERPRINT

“Think global, act local” – that is the philosophy pursued by Interprint for more than 50 years. With more than 1,400 employees worldwide, the Interprint Group is one of the leading décor printers.

Interprint’s designs decorate the surfaces of all types of woodbased panels that are processed into furniture, flooring and used for interior finishing.

Wood, stone and abstract designs by Interprint are eyecatching because of an authenticity that is also at the foundation of the company’s corporate culture.

JKL MACHINERY

At JKL Machinery, we’ve revolutionized the woodworking industry with our exclusive partnerships as the sole importer for renowned brands like Casadei Busellato, Vitap, and Bonacin. We bring you a world of woodworking solutions that are unrivaled in quality, precision, and innovation.

Casadei Busellato, an Italian masterpiece, epitomizes the pinnacle of woodworking machinery. From precision saws to edgebanders, sanders, CNC routers, and more, their equipment transforms your woodworking projects into works of art with unmatched accuracy and efficiency.

Vitap, another Italian gem in our portfolio, offers a diverse range of woodworking solutions, including contour edgebanders, drill and dowel machines, CNC routers, and specializes in acoustic panel machinery. Whether you need to create precision edges, drill and dowel with accuracy, craft intricate designs with CNC routers, or produce high-quality acoustic panels, Vitap has you covered.

Bonacin, known for its exceptional case clamps, ensures your projects come together flawlessly, with perfect joints and seamless craftsmanship.

But our commitment to your success goes beyond offering toptier machinery. At JKL Machinery, we take pride in our after-sale support. Our expert technicians are always at your service, providing comprehensive training, maintenance, and quick responses to any technical queries.

When you choose JKL Machinery, you’re not just investing in equipment; you’re investing in a partnership dedicated to your woodworking success. Experience precision, innovation, and unparalleled support – choose JKL Machinery, where craftsmanship meets technology!

7795 Lochlin Dr. Brighton, MI 48116 248-437-4738

www.jklmachiery.com

KCD SOFTWARE

KCD Software offers a powerful 2D and 3D design-to-CNC manufacturing solution, recognized for its user-friendly interface, scalability, and exceptional support. KCD Software significantly reduces project time by streamlining the design, pricing, and production of custom kitchens, bathrooms, closets, pantries, offices, and more for both residential and commercial projects. Whether you are creating simple layouts or intricate designs, KCD Software transforms your ideas into stunning 3D renderings that are ready for manufacturing. Every product includes outstanding technical support. With over 40 years of customer-driven innovation, KCD Software is dedicated to delivering top-tier design, pricing, and manufacturing tools for cabinet and closet professionals.

Visit KCDsoftware.com for products, features and pricing.

FEATURES:

• FULL 2D, 3D DESIGN STUDIO

• ELEVATIONS, FLOORPLANS, DIMENSIONED DRAWINGS

• FASTER DESIGN TO MANUFACTURING

• ACCURATE CUT LISTS AND MACHINING

• ESTIMATES, PROPOSALS, COST REPORTS

• CABINOTCH® INTEGRATED ORDERING

• DOOR MANUFACTURING OR ORDERING

• UNIT PART SIZES WITH CONSTRUCTION DETAILS

• EASILY ADD OPERATORS AND DESIGNERS

• FLEXIBILITY TO EDIT CUT LIST DETAILS FOR EACH JOB

• MANUAL SAW OPTIMIZATION

• AUTO PART MARKER

• CNC PARTS VIEWER AND EDITOR

• INTELLIGENT SMALL PART HANDLING (TABS, ONIONSKINS, CUTS SMALL PARTS FIRST)

• AUTOMATIC TOOLING AND TOOL PATH GENERATION

• CNC MANAGER FOR JOB AND PARTS MANAGEMENT

• FREE LIVE TECH SUPPORT

KERFKORE

Since 1984, Kerfkore has designed and manufactured high-quality flexible and lightweight architectural panels. Our panels help architects, fabricators, and designers create inspired designs while reducing project time by up to 70% and the total amount of resources used. Our precision design and process ensure consistency, stability, and symmetry every single time.

Our flexible panels can achieve virtually any curve you can imagine, bending tighter, with more consistency and dimensional stability than traditional methods. Our lightweight panels reduce weight by up to 80% compared to plywood, particleboard, and MDF, bridging the gap between weight, performance, and design flexibility.

Kerfkore panels can be used in various applications across many industries such as Hospitality, Healthcare, Education, Restaurants, Tradeshows, Condominiums, Retail, and more. Our flexible products were recently used in the beautiful performance hall at Texas A&M-Kingsville*. Our panels were the optimum solution to provide both the flexibility and density required for the curved wraparound balcony.

Additional services and custom options are available with most of our products. Simplify and streamline your process today by using Kerfkore products.

*Photo provided by Cotton Global Disaster Solutions.

KESSEBÖHMER

Kesseböhmer is a global leader in innovative storage solutions, combining German engineering with timeless design. From kitchen cabinets to closets and beyond, every Kesseböhmer product is crafted to maximize space, improve accessibility, and enhance daily living.

Our product portfolio, ranging from the iconic LeMans corner system and DISPENSA pantry pullouts to the CONERO closet range demonstrates a commitment to design-driven engineering. Every component is built for long-term performance, seamless motion, and aesthetic integration within modern cabinetry systems, transforming how people interact with their homes.

With a focus on quality, precision, and sustainability, Kesseböhmer products are built to last and designed to inspire. Every movement is smooth, every detail purposeful.

From concept to installation, our focus remains on elevating the standard for ergonomics, efficiency, and flexibility. Experience the synergy of innovation and craftsmanship that defines Kesseböhmer—engineering movement that inspires.

https://youtu.be/2Wea4_F0cs8

KRONOSPAN

Primavera Oak flows seamlessly, creating an unparalleled tactile and visual appeal. The delicate woodgrain creates a sensory experience that elevates spaces, setting a new standard for interior decorative surface solutions. Feel the difference! Explore Primavera Oak and our complete Kronodesign product range at Kronospan.com.

LAGUNA TOOLS

Engineered to handle production-level workloads, our CNC machines redefine industry standards. What sets us apart is not just our cutting-edge technology, but the comprehensive support and training we offer, ensuring your success in the competitive world of manufacturing from start to finish.

Connect with us on social media and YouTube, where we showcase real-world projects and customer success stories demonstrating the full potential of our machines. Our commitment extends beyond the purchase — we’re invested in your ongoing success.

Recently, we undertook a local cabinet build using our SmartShop 2 Elite. It boasts a 12HP HSD Spindle with a versatile 5,000-24,000 RPM range, an 8-position ISO 30 Automatic Tool Changing System, and a FANUC ® Oi-MF PLUS Control System with 750W FANUC ® Servo Drive Motors to keep production running smoothly. The SmartShop 2 Elite is not just another CNC machine; it’s an investment to ensure your business stays ahead in the ever-evolving manufacturing landscape.

lagunatools.com/cnc/industries/cabinet-making instagram.com/lagunatools facebook.com/lagunatools youtube.com/@lagunatools

LEUCO

“The vital link between your machine and your end result”

Founded in Germany in 1954, LEUCO is one of the world's largest suppliers of carbide and diamond-tipped machine cutting tools for wood, metal, and plastic processing. Its story begins with the close friendship of Willi Ledermann and Josef Storzer, colleagues at a metal-working company. Ledermann was a brilliant financial director, and Storzer was a bright, talented engineer.

The quality of a finished part, its properties, the speed and accuracy with which it can be produced and the repeatability of manufacture in high volume production runs, all depend on the precision and characteristics of the tooling. So for the best parts, tooling needs to be designed and engineered to the highest quality. Wealth of ideas and technical know-how have been the heart of LEUCO since the beginning. Our tooling product range includes circular saw blades, bore-type and shank-type cutters, drills, clamping systems, end mills, round tools, and inserts. Sharpening service, application consulting and service packages complete the spectrum.

LEUCO provides everything from small drill bits to high-end, diamond-tipped cutting tools along with custom tooling for any application.

1-800-631-0096 | www.leuco.com www.shopleuco.com sales@leucotool.com

LioChem INCORPORATED

ADVANCED GRAVURE INK & COATINGS FOR DECORATIVE LAMINATES AND WALLCOVERINGS

Benefits of Our Products

• Outstanding quality, printability, and performance.

• Custom-engineered water-borne, solvent-based, UV and EB coatings.

• Process consistency for dependable, repeatable results.

• Stringent quality control inspection ensuring product consistency and performance.

• Proven, reliable, and stable formulations trusted by leading manufacturers.

LioChem Strengths

• Built on parent company’s +125 years of quality, consistency, and performance.

• Unmatched customer service and industry-leading technical support.

• Customer-centric solutions — not one-size-fits-all products.

• In-house coating polymer manufacturing — a key advantage that sets us apart.

• Proprietary dispersion technology, combined with pigment and polymer expertise, enables us to engineer unique, high-performance inks and coatings.

• Collaborative International team providing global experience with local responsiveness.

• ISO 9001 Quality and ISO 14001 Environmental certified since 1999.

Part of the artience group — where art and science come together to inspire design and performance.

CREATING VALUE THAT RESONATES WITH THE SENSES

Phone: (770) 922-0800 | Fax: (770) 929-0962

Email: sales@artience-liochem.com Website: artience-liochem.com

LOCKDOWEL

Is the shortage of skilled labor creating challenges for your shop? Lockdowel’s patented invisible fastener solution is so easy to use, anyone can do it! It simplifies and expedites the assembly and installation of cabinets, closets, furniture, wall panels, and more. Lockdowel connectors require no case clamp, glue, screws or special tools, and the fasteners are invisible post-assembly. It’s simply the most precise, easy, and headache-free way to assemble! Customers report reducing assembly labor time by up to 60%!

Our One-Click drawer slides are also turning heads. Available for sidemount and undermount with 3D adjusting clips, One-Click installs in the time it takes to fasten a seatbelt. Just click and go!

ADVANTAGES

• Flat-packing Option: save on shipping costs by flat-packing which enables on-site job builds, uses less warehouse space, and is capable of on-site disassembly when needed.

• Strength: each of our hardware joints provides over 100 lbs. of pull force for durable, high-quality finishes.

• Easy: our single fastener concept utilizes a keyhole slot to create the locking mechanism for cabinet assembly, which drastically simplifies the assembly process with just a CNC router and edge boring capability. Training time is virtually eliminated.

Discover why others are calling Lockdowel solutions “gamechangers.” Try Lockdowel today.

MJB

A reliable supply chain partner with a strategic focus on wood components, millwork, and panel products.

MJB has spent nearly 50 years refining supply chain management, pursuing creative solutions and exceptional relationships with domestic and international suppliers. We give customers access to global manufacturers and innovative products, leading to lower costs, expanded capabilities, and entry into new markets.

Our supply chain services go beyond just sourcing, procurement, logistics, and distribution management. We can help you manage your entire supply chain or just a portion of it. We also offer vendor managed inventory and other programs to reduce costs and improve efficiency for your customers. MJB’s team of experienced professionals can provide value-added services, including cut-to-size, lamination, priming, and more—saving your business time and money.

SPECIALIZING IN

• GLOBAL SOURCING

• CABINETS

• DOORS & MILLWORK

• FURNITURE & FIXTURE

• RV AND UTILITY VEHICLES

• RTA CABINETS

• OSB

M ÜNZING FENTAK ®

ADDITIVE SOLUTIONS FOR THE LAMINATE AND WOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY

MÜNZING is a highly regarded, privately owned specialty additive company with headquarters in Abstatt, Germany. We have a presence in over 40 countries and are a technology driven organization with an extensive staff of highly experienced R&D and technical service personnel in Europe, the Americas and Australia. Our manufacturing plants in Germany, USA, Australia and Asia have broad synthesis and formulation capabilities in order to best serve our global customer base. MÜNZING’s global manufacturing network ensures reliable product availability and prompt delivery to our customers worldwide.

MÜNZING FENTAK® PROCESSING ADDITIVES

Wood Panels | Engineered Wood Manufacturing

• Catalysts

• Indicator Dyes

• Release Agents

• Additives for Wood Coatings

• Additives for Wood Impregnations

• Fillers/Putties

• Edge Sealants

• Electric Conductivity Agents

Laminate Manufacturing

• Catalysts

• Release Agents

• Wetting Agents

• Colorants

• Anti-Mar Additives

• Abrasive Resistant Additives

• Gloss Improvers & Leveling Agents

• Dust Suppressors

• Anti-Blocking Agents

• Titanium Dioxide Dispersions

• Plasticizers

N O R T H A ME R I CA N

NORTH AMERICAN PLYWOOD CORPORATION

C O R POR AT IO N

He re at Nor t h American Ply wood , we ha ve the pleasu re of of fe r in g our c u s to m e rs the highest qua l it y p ro d uc ts and manu factu r in g services. With ofﬁces in Cali fornia and N ew Je rs ey includin g wa rehouses a roun d the co u ntr y NAPC has the capa b ilit y to p rovide the service you need whe reve r yo u a re in N o r th Ame r ica

Our pl y wood is sus tainab l y sou rced an d can be FS C ce r tiﬁed

NAPC a l so of fe rs man y dif fe rent value-adde d services

Our pl y wood is sus tainab l y sou rced an d can be FS C ce r tiﬁed NAPC a l so of fe rs man y dif fe rent value-adde d services

NAPC is p rou d to of fe r D esignPly©, our di rec t to su b st ra te digi ta l printing and s taining sys tem. Using ou r s ta te- of-the-a r t p r in te r and robotic au tomation we can p r in t designs an d images o r s tai n the woo d to any color req u i red

Here at North American Plywood, we have the pleasure of offering our customers the highest quality products and manufacturing services. With offices in California and New Jersey including warehouses around the country NAPC has the capability to provide the service you need wherever you are in North America. Our plywood is sustainably sourced and can be FSC certified. NAPC also offers many different value-added services.

O U IR VA L UE A DDED MANU FACT URIN G

NAPC is proud to offer DesignPly©, our direct to substrate digital printing and staining system. Using our state-of-the-art printer and robotic automation we can print designs and images or stain the wood to any color required.

SE RVIC ES INC L UDE :

OU IR VA LUE ADDED MANU FACTURIN G

OUIR VALUE ADDED MANUFACTURING SERVICES INCLUDE:

SE RVIC ES INC LUDE :

OU IR VA LUE ADDED MANU FACTURIN G

SE RVIC ES INC LUDE :

• STATE OF THE A RT UV CURE D DIGI TAL PRI N TIN G

OUR VALUE ADDED MANUFACTURING SERVICES INCLUDE:

• STATE OF THE A RT UV CURE D DIGI TAL PRI N TIN G

• ONE OF THE LARG EST UV L I NE I N NO RTH AMERI CA

• STATE OF THE A RT UV CURE D DIGI TAL PRI N TIN G

• ONE OF THE LARG EST UV L I NE I N NO RTH AMERI CA

• UV FI N I S H I NG UP TO 5 FO OT W IDE AN D 1 2 ’ LO N G

• STATE OF THE ART UV CURED DIGITAL PRINTING

• ONE OF THE LARG EST UV L I NE I N NO RTH AMERI CA

• UV FI N I S H I NG UP TO 5 FO OT W IDE AN D 1 2 ’ LO N G

• DR AWER BLANK MA N U FACTUR I N G

• UV FI N I S H I NG UP TO 5 FO OT W IDE AN D 1 2 ’ LO N G

• ONE OF THE LARGEST UV LINE IN NORTH AMERICA

• UV FI N I S H I NG UP TO 5 FO OT W IDE AN D 1 2 ’ LO N G

• DR AWER BLANK MA N U FACTUR I N G

• CUT TO SIZE AN D ROUTIN G

• UV FINISHING UP TO 5 FOOT WIDE AND 12’ LONG

• DR AWER BLANK MA N U FACTUR I N G

• CUT TO SIZE AN D ROUTIN G

• DRAWER BLANK MANUFACTURING

• CUT TO SIZE AN D ROUTIN G

• PUR LAMI N ATIO N O F HPL , VE N EER, PET A N D AC RYLIC OVERL AYS

• CUT TO SIZE AND ROUTING

• PUR LAMI N ATIO N O F HPL , VE N EER, PET A N D AC RYLIC OVERL AYS IN U LTRA M ATTE AN D HIGH GLOS S

IN U LTRA M ATTE AN D HIGH GLOS S

• PUR LAMI N ATIO N O F HPL , VE N EER, PET A N D AC RYLIC OVERL AYS

• PUR LAMI N ATIO N O F HPL , VE N EER, PET A N D AC RYLIC OVERL AYS IN U LTRA M ATTE AN D HIGH GLOS S

• EDGE BA N D I NG A N D UV EDGE C OATI N G

• PUR LAMI N ATIO N O F HPL , VE N EER, PET A N D AC RYLIC OVERL AYS IN U LTRA M ATTE AN D HIGH GLOS S

IN U LTRA M ATTE AN D HIGH GLOS S

• EDGE BA N D I NG A N D UV EDGE C OATI N G

• PUR LAMINATION OF HPL, VENEER, PET AND ACRYLIC OVERLAYS IN ULTRA MATTE AND HIGH GLOSS

• EDGE BA N D I NG A N D UV EDGE C OATI N G

• EDGEBANDING AND UV EDGE COATING

COMPONENT MANUFACTURING

MANUFACTURING

COMPONENT MANUFACTURING

HEADQUARTERS: 12343 Hawkins St., Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 800-421-1372

HEADQUARTERS: 12343 Hawkins St., Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670

HEADQUARTERS: 12343 Hawkins St., Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 800-421-1372

800-421-1372

HEADQUARTERS: 12343 Hawkins St., Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 800-421-1372

MANUFACTURING: 777 Jefferson Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054 | 800-759-6606 www.naply.com

MANUFACTURING: 777 Jefferson Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054 800-759-6606 www.naply.com

NEDERMAN

Nederman is one of the world's leading companies supplying products and services in the environmental technology sector focusing on industrial air filtration. Our products and solutions are contributing to reducing the environmental effects of industrial processes, creating safe and clean working environments and boosting production efficiency, mainly within industries such as woodworking, metalworking, composite machining, food processing, vehicle service and emergency stations, laboratories and dentists.

We specialize in welding fume extraction, industrial dust collection, combustible dust, exhaust extraction, oil mist filtration and industrial housekeeping. By combining our existing products with state-of-the-art digital innovations, we are able to deliver ‘Clean Air as a Service’ which provides a complete lifecycle solution for our customers all around the globe. This is how we advance our mission to shape the future for clean air. Nederman's offering encompasses everything from the design stage to installation, commissioning and service.

Sales are carried out via sales offices and distributors in over 50 countries and development and production in own manufacturing and assembly units in 12 countries on five continents.

+1 (800) 533-5286

info.us@nederman.com www.nederman.com

NORTHERN CONTOURS

Custom Capabilities & Solutions Partner

With over 30 years of experience, we specialize in manufacturing high-quality cabinet doors and furniture & fixture components for diverse markets. Design, quality, and evolving trends remain our focus. Our extensive product lines offer industry-leading material and profile options, providing ONE SOURCE for comprehensive solutions. As we continue to expand our capabilities and automation processes, we maintain rigorous quality testing at every step. With five strategically located plants across North America, we ensure faster and more efficient shipping.

Markets We Serve:

• Kitchen & Bath

• Closets & Home Organization

• Multi-Family, Residential & Commercial

• Offices

• Hospitality & Retail

• Healthcare

• Education

Our Products & Capabilities Include:

• 3D Laminate Membrane Pressing

• Custom Routing, Drilling, Profiles & Shapes

• 5-Piece Cabinet Doors with Authentic Textured Finishes

• FENIX NTM® Nanotech Matte Surfaces

• Miter-Fold Capabilities, including Floating Shelves and Drawer Boxes

• Profile-Wrapped Mouldings

• Standard & Custom Surface Solutions

OLON INDUSTRIES INC.

ABOUT OLON INDUSTRIES INC.

Founded in 1981, Olon designs and manufactures an extensive range of innovative, integrated woodworking component products for the North American furniture and cabinet-making industries.

OLON’S LATEST TECHNOLOGY

Featuring PÜRDECO™ which is the laminated panel division at Olon, home to four innovative collections. UrbanTouch™, VelourTouch ®, APEX and eflex capture today’s trends of extreme matte finishes and painted cabinet looks. GlossTouch™ laminated panels are modern, contemporary and have a mirror-like finish. The Essentials Collection is great for volume projects like multifamily, condos and retail programs.

The equipment at Olon producing PÜRDECO™ Laminated Panels is by far the latest in technological innovation using only the highest quality PUR glue technology. Olon ensures quality products.

OUR PRODUCTS INCLUDE:

• NEXGEN ®, URBANTOUCH™, VELOURTOUCH ® AND CUSTOM WRAPPED 5 PIECE DOOR MOULDINGS

• NEXGEN ®, URBANTOUCH™, VELOURTOUCH ® AND CUSTOM WRAPPED ACCESSORY MOULDINGS

• PÜRDECO™ PANEL COLLECTIONS AND CUSTOM PANEL LAMINATION

• NEXGEN ® LINK25, URBANTOUCH™, VELOURTOUCH ® DECOLINK™ AND CUSTOM FORMABLE LAMINATES

• NEXGEN ® EDGEBANDING

• MITERFOLD AND DRILL & DOWEL JOINERY DRAWER COMPONENTS

ONYX SPECIALTY PAPERS, INC.

Onyx Specialty Papers, Inc. has been manufacturing decorative saturating papers for the laminate industry for over 80 years. Onyx manufactures the highest quality and most comprehensive range of saturating papers on the market. Our versatile papers are designed for either High Pressure Laminates (HPL), Thermo Fused Laminate (TFL), or Continuous Press Laminate (CPL) applications. We offer: solid-colored décor papers, protective overlay papers, colored core papers for compact laminates, fire retardant paper and conductive papers for Electro-static dissipative laminates.

Lustralite ® is a decorative inclusion overlay paper designed to be pressed over solid colors or printed décor papers. Lustralite ® is a constantly evolving, ever expanding collection of unique designs: from rustic looking fiber patterns to space-age lusters to nighton-the-town sexy metallics and more ... We can help you produce a product that is unique, memorable and brings more value than your competition. Some of the materials speak to today’s top design trends, while others are unique glimpses into the future as we explore emerging concepts.

Our newest category, Strellis, is designed to look like bright shiny metals. These papers have a uniform visual appearance without emphasizing the individual inclusions. Brighter than designs that are currently printed. Endless design possibilities exist for high gloss, zero matte finishes and exterior applications.

For more information visit our website: www.onyxpapers.com

40 Willow Street, PO Box 188 South Lee, MA 01260 413-243-5426 | onyxpapers.com

PaintLine

Since the 1990s, PaintLine has been a leader in delivering innovative, practical, and cost-effective solutions for drying racks, spray stands, and other process-oriented needs. Serving cabinet makers, millwork shops, residential remodelers, commercial painters, and DIY enthusiasts alike, PaintLine has earned a reputation for excellence.

Pro Face Frame & Door Mover (PFFDM)

PFFDM protects cabinet doors, panels, and face frames from damage while moving throughout the plant. Slotted trays safely and quickly guide panels into place, and fiberglass rods keep cabinets from touching each other. Available with a 5-degree angled base to accommodate being rolled on ramps and slopes in workshops. The PFFDM’s unique slot-and-rod divider system is easily cleanable, non-marring, and highly configurable.

ProDryingRack™ (PDRKD)

The PDRKD 50-Shelf Cabinet Door Drying Rack is our flagship rack and a true workhorse in every work environment. Each shelf holds up to 25 lbs. and can be rolled to the next production station or out of your way, even when fully loaded. You don’t need to pull or place parts in any specific sequence because the PDRKD is designed to let you work exactly how you want to: grab parts from the top, bottom or middle. The PDRKD is also a great space saver, providing 200 sq ft of drying surface area in a 6.5 sq. ft. footprint.

ProDryingRack EX™ (PDREX)

Our robust and expandable ProDryingRack EX (PDREX) stretches from 20” to almost 60” in width with clamp levers for easy adjustment. Fifteen levels hold up to 60 lbs each for a total capacity of 900 lbs. Round, 1” diameter x 30” long, removable tubes lock into place with just a turn (no tools). When you need more than the 3” of vertical space between the levels, simply remove the tubes until you have the room you need.

ProDryingRack EX Plus Series™ (PDREX3 and PDREX4)

The ProDryingRack EX Plus Series is a heavy-duty rack that can be configured with either three or four towers, each with 15 removable shelves, providing up to 180” of horizontal rack space on each level. The PDREX Plus uses the two-towered, expandable PDREX as the base rack configuration for the series. Each tower includes heavy duty, 5” locking casters and anti-torque stabilizers for rolling the entire rack to the desired shop area.

PANEL PROCESSING, INC.

For more than 50 years, Panel Processing has been a trusted leader in domestic wood product and component manufacturing. With decades of experience and expansive production capabilities, we deliver seamless, end-to-end solutions for all your wood component needs.

Whether your project calls for cut-to-size MDF, HDF, particleboard, or other custom substrates, Panel Processing has you covered— from raw board to ready-to-assemble furniture. Every product we create is built to your specifications, ensuring quality, precision, and consistency at every stage.

We proudly serve a wide range of industries, including retail, hospitality, healthcare, furniture manufacturing, and home organization. Our extensive capabilities include drilling, machining, laminating, coating, cutting, custom painting, and edge-banding, all performed with expert craftsmanship and attention to detail.

As a company committed to American manufacturing, we take pride in producing every product right here in the USA. When you choose Panel Processing, you’re choosing a reliable partner for high-quality, American-made wood panels and components designed to bring your vision to life.

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES:

LAMINATED PANELS:

• High Pressure Laminates

• Thermally Fused Laminates

• Decorative Papers & Foils

• Textures

• Hundreds Of Papers, Designs & Colors

PANELS:

• Slatwall

• Pegboard

• Chalkboard

• Markerboard

• Eco-Finish

Digital Print Media

• Laminated Panels

COMPONENTS:

• Shelving

• Store Fixtures

• Casework

• Cabinetry

• RTA Furniture

• Toys & Games

CAPABILITIES:

• Cut-To-Size

• Punch

• Paint

• Coat

• Laminate

• Machine

• Edgebanding

• Finishing

PARKSITE

Parksite distributes category leading building construction products and specialty building materials to dealers and fabricators within the commercial construction, residential construction and remodeling markets. Founded in 1971, Parksite is 100% employeeowned. Along with our wholly owned subsidiary company, Atlantic Plywood Corporation, we have 21 locations and over 700 employee-owners. Our mission is to build brands and develop solutions transforming the building industry. We have knowledge and skill sets to create downstream demand directly among a product’s end users via education, communicating value, and demonstrating future industry trends.

Parksite’s corporate office is in Batavia, IL with sales and distribution centers for surfacing and panel products in Bolingbrook, IL; Lakeland, FL; Carlstadt, NJ; Louisville, OH; South Windsor, CT; Rochester, NY. We serve customers in northern Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio; Florida; New Jersey, New York; and New England. Our wholly owned subsidiary company, Atlantic Plywood, has 12 locations that serve the New England area, Illinois and Southeast.

PRODUCT CATEGORIES:

• PREMIUM SURFACES

Corian ® Solid Surfaces, Corian ® Quartz Surfaces, Corian ® Elements sinks and lavatories, Portfolio 71 semi-custom bath and sink products

• ARCHITECTURAL PRODUCTS

Portfolio 71 Ready-to-Install Solutions including 3-Dimensional Walls, Pet Wash Stations, Modular Healthcare Solutions, Shower Walls and Pans, Trough Sinks, Windowsills, and Privacy Plus ® Partitions

WE WORK WITH:

• ARCHITECTS

• BUILDERS

• COUNTERTOP FABRICATORS

• CUSTOM CABINET SHOPS

• DESIGNERS

• FACILITY MANAGERS

• KITCHEN & BATH DEALERS

• MILLWORK HOUSES

• SPECIFIERS

PEAK TOOLWORKS

Peak Toolworks: Engineering Precision and Performance for Over 80 Years

With more than eight decades of experience, Peak Toolworks has grown to become North America’s largest direct sales provider and manufacturer of engineered diamond and carbide tools. Built on a foundation of craftsmanship, innovation, and service, the company continues to set the industry standard for quality and performance.

From its beginnings as a regional tooling service provider, Peak Toolworks has evolved into a trusted name across multiple industries—including woodworking, cabinetry, cooperage, plastics, composites, and metalworking. This broad expertise allows the company to deliver customized tooling solutions that improve productivity, reduce downtime, and extend tool life.

“At Peak, we’re not just providing tools—we’re providing performance,” says the company’s leadership team. “Our goal is to ensure every customer’s operation runs at Peak performance, every time.”

Innovation That Drives Results

Peak Toolworks specializes in designing and manufacturing highperformance cutting tools that maximize efficiency and precision. Each product is engineered with advanced materials and technology to deliver the longest possible tool life, even in demanding applications. The company’s in-house engineering team works closely with customers to develop solutions tailored to their unique production requirements.

A Service That Stands Apart

Beyond manufacturing, Peak Toolworks is recognized for its unmatched service capabilities. Its Certified Tool Service goes beyond standard sharpening—restoring tools to like-new condition and ensuring customers get the most from their investment. From carbide and diamond saw blades to inserts, router bits, cutter heads, and more, Peak’s dedicated service team combines technical expertise with personalized, timely support.

Commitment to Customer Convenience

As part of its ongoing commitment to innovation and customer experience, Peak Toolworks recently launched a redesigned website featuring an integrated eCommerce platform. Customers can now browse products, place orders, and manage tooling needs online with ease and efficiency.

Whether you’re seeking precision-engineered tools, certified service, or expert support, Peak Toolworks remains a trusted partner for highperformance cutting solutions across North America.

PLUMMER FOREST PRODUCTS

Summit Particleboard is produced from Inland Northwest Softwoods featuring a light color and excellent machinability. Combined with moisture resistant characteristics, Summit particleboard is the ideal choice for office and residential furniture, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, shelving, and door core.

• FORMALDEHYDE FREE

• MR-10

• RECYCLED WOOD FIBER

• FSC CERTIFIED

PLUNKETT DISTRIBUTING CO., INC.

In business for over 75 years, Plunkett Distributing Company, Inc. provides excellent service and competitive prices on the following materials:

• WILSONART PLASTIC LAMINATE, QUARTZ, AND SOLID SURFACE PRODUCTS (Arkansas)

• CABINET DOOR HARDWARE

• PREFABRICATED LAMINATE PANELS

• HARDWOOD LUMBER AND PLYWOOD PRODUCTS

• FORMICA PLASTIC LAMINATE AND SOLID SURFACE PRODUCTS (OKLAHOMA)

We were founded in 1948 by J. F. Plunkett and incorporated in 1955. We continue to operate today as a family-owned business which now extends into the second and third generations. We have continually grown over the years from a one-man operation to currently employing over 140 employees with three locations.

Plunkett Distributing Company, Inc’s. main focus in the beginning was on plastic laminate and servicing its home market, Fort Smith, Arkansas. Over the years we have continued to add vendor lines and expand our service areas. We now offer a full line of cabinet supplies including lumber products for cabinet construction to complement our plastic laminate and surfacing products. In the last few years we have expanded our operation to include manufacturing of bonded laminate panels as well as the capability for cutting, edgebanding and milling panels. With locations in Fort Smith, Little Rock and Oklahoma City, our coverage area has expanded to include most of the state of Arkansas, Oklahoma, some parts of Texas and Louisiana, and Southern Missouri.

We take pride in offering an extensive delivery service in both markets as well as offering very competitive prices. We are a company that eagerly and thoroughly takes care of the business that we are entrusted with and works continuously and personally with our customers to ensure their growing success. Through the success of our customers we continue to grow our success.

R&B TOOL SUPPLY, INC.

R & B Tool Supply, Inc.: 40 Years of Pioneering Innovation

in American Tooling!

For four decades, R & B Tool Supply, Inc. has stood as a beacon of innovation and creativity, disrupting the status quo in America’s production routing and milling industries. Pioneering the way with our revolutionary Extended Life™ and High Strength™ production tooling, we’ve become synonymous with pushing the envelope of what’s possible in carbide tooling.

A Legacy of Invention: Our journey began with the invention of the very first Solid Carbide Compression Tool. We introduced the first mechanical Compression Tool grinding machinery, then the first C.N.C. multi-flute Compression Tool grinding software. Our compression tool geometry, designed to eliminate fuzzing and blowout, revolutionized material routing, making the first cut the last cut with no cleanup.

Raising the Bar with Proprietary Materials: We recently introduced industry-leading and proprietary carbide materials, enhancing production longevity and application strength.

Setting New Standards with Extended Life™ Tooling: Purpose-built to slash per-sheet tooling costs, our Extended Life™ tooling, designed by our staff metallurgist, boasts a sharp, cool edge while machining tough, heat-generating laminates such as HPL and Melamine. With a lifespan up to 4x longer, it provides unparalleled value.

High Strength™ Tooling: Our High Strength™ tooling, designed by our metallurgist, excels in running lower-quality wood materials with minimal debris. Ideal for heavily used or ageing C.N.C. machinery, it dampens application harmonics, enabling consistent performance when running less expensive wood materials.

International Recognition, Local Impact: R & B Tool Supply isn’t just a name; it symbolizes the epitome of American tooling excellence. We understand that superior endurance coupled with superior performance delivers long-term results. Whether your business operates at the cutting edge of technology or focuses on cost-effective solutions, our commitment transcends industry norms, delivering long-term results to businesses across the production spectrum.

Connect with Success: Experience the impact of innovation on your bottom line. Visit www.RBToolSupply.com to explore our cuttingedge tooling solutions or contact (877) 247-7320. Trust R & B Tool Supply, Inc. – where success is not just a goal; it’s a guarantee.

REV-A-SHELF

For more than 40 years, Rev-A-Shelf® has been a trusted, familyowned, U.S.-based manufacturer dedicated to transforming the way people use their homes. What began as a small division focused on waste containers and Lazy Susans has grown into a global leader in smart storage and lighting solutions—without ever losing the family values, craftsmanship, and customer-first mindset that shaped our earliest days.

At Rev-A-Shelf, innovation isn’t a buzzword—it’s our foundation. Our teams continually engineer new ways to make cabinets, closets, and kitchens more organized, more accessible, and more enjoyable to use. From premium pullouts and organizers to sophisticated LED lighting systems, floating shelf brackets, and handcrafted wood hoods, every product we create is designed to solve real problems with durability, performance, and style.

Instagram www.instagram.com/revashelf/# @revashelf

TikTok www.tiktok.com/@revashelf?lang=en @revashelf

YouTube youtube.com/user/REVASHELF @REVASHELF

RICHELIEU HARDWARE

Richelieu is a leading North American importer, manufacturer, and distributor of specialty hardware and complementary products. Our extensive customer base includes manufacturers of kitchen and bathroom cabinets, storage and closets, home furnishing, and office furniture, as well as residential and commercial door and window woodworkers.

At Richelieu, we understand how the right decorative surface can transform your space and bring your designs to life. From super matte to high gloss to textured surfaces, Richelieu offers a full range of stylish, state-of-the-art surfaces and panels for your next project.

And with more than 6,000 distinctive models of handles and knobs featuring innovative design and high-quality manufacturing, we can help you find the perfect match for your cabinet doors to ensure they’re both attractive and functional. Whether you’re looking for a modern, transitional, traditional, or eclectic style, Richelieu has the right handle and knob for you.

Decorative Hardware to win any room. High-end craftsmanship by world-renowned designers that level up any space. Our unique cabinet hardware blends innovation with tradition, creating a wide selection of finishes, materials, and design combinations.

Link to video: https://www.richelieu.com/ca/en/category/surfaces-panelsand-edgebanding/premium-panels/1166304?sort=&nbPerPage=48

RIKEN U.S.A. CORPORATION

Riken, a Japanese company, specializes in manufacturing 3D Laminates and Steel Lamination Films. Since 1995, Riken USA, our North American Sales and Distribution office, has been serving as the regional hub for Riken Technos Corporation. Our 3D Laminates are ideal for residential cabinet components and doors, as well as a variety of commercial applications including office furniture, store fixtures, RV interiors, healthcare facilities, senior living environments, and other building materials.

Our products are highly regarded across various industries for their exceptional functionality, quality, and aesthetic appeal. Riken’s films are renowned for their superior UV resistance and consistent quality from batch to batch, ensuring unmatched laminating performance.

FILM TYPES:

• PVC AND NON-PVC 1D, 2D and 3D

FINISHES:

• HIGH GLOSS

• MATTE

• SATIN

• SCRATCH RESISTANT DT

• METALLIC

• SOFT FEEL

• SUPERMATTE

• 3D DRY AND ERASE

PATTERNS:

• SOLID

• WOODGRAIN

• GRANITE 26200 Town Center Drive, Suite 135 | Novi, MI 48375

248-513-3511 | info@riken-usa.com www.riken-usa.com

SALICE AMERICA INC.

Salice America, Inc. has been active in the U.S. market for over 30 years. Based in Charlotte, NC, Salice America was founded in 1989 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Arturo Salice S.p.A..

Salice has demonstrated since its inception the determination to be near the U.S. customers in order to better serve and understand their needs. Following suit, in 1993, Salice America opened a satellite warehouse in Los Angeles (Rancho Cucamonga), CA as an additional service to our customers in the West. Thanks to the two strategically located warehouses, Salice America has been able to optimize the rapid distribution of all Salice group products throughout the national territory. The determination has proven to be successful and has led to impressive sales growth. Salice America is today one of the leaders in the supply of components to U.S. kitchen cabinet manufacturers.

OPENING LIFTING SLIDING STORING… ALL FROM SALICE

For every type of movement… the answer is Salice. A comprehensive range of products that combines excellence in research-based design and technical expertise to provide solutions for every cabinet application.

• HINGES AND MOUNTING PLATES

• LIFT SYSTEMS

• SLIDING DOOR SYSTEMS

• RUNNERS AND DRAWER SYSTEMS

• KITCHEN ACCESSORIES

• CLOSET ACCESSORIES

Phone: 800-222-9652 Fax: 704-841-7808

www.saliceamerica.com

Specified Components Company (SCC) works behind the scenes to keep projects moving. We supply the components that cabinetry, furniture, hospitality, and multi-family housing manufacturers depend on, from premium cabinet parts to full custom solutions. Over the years, SCC has grown from a cabinet component supplier into a sourcing partner trusted across North America.

Our offering includes RTA cabinets, drawer parts, doors, face frames, furniture and closet components, and tailored programs to fit unique needs. With global sourcing expertise, strict quality control, and flexible inventory programs, SCC provides consistency and reliability at every step.

As the industry continues to change, we remain focused on dependable solutions and long-term value, helping our customers deliver with confidence.

solutions@specifiedcomponents.com (847) 625-1600 specifiedcomponents.com/

SCHATTDECOR

For over 40 years, Schattdecor has been a leading name in decor printing, evolving from a printing company into an innovative surface specialist. With 3,000 employees representing 37 nationalities across 14 global production sites, this family-owned company, headquartered in Thansau, Germany, processes 2.2 billion square meters of material annually.

Sustainability at Our Core

Since Schattdecor’s founding, sustainability has been an integral part of our corporate philosophy. Today, it remains a steadfast component of the company’s fabric and leadership. Sustainability isn't just a matter of compliance; it's an integral part of our business strategy and a driving force behind our innovation.

MADE BY SCHATTDECOR: Consistent Quality Worldwide

Our global seal of approval guarantees consistent quality across all our facilities through standardized processes, utilizing lightfast inks and compatible machinery. With locations in Maryland Heights, Missouri and Lexington, South Carolina , we serve the North American market with a fusion of design and technical expertise, ensuring a perfect match on a variety of surfaces. Driven by innovation, we introduce cutting-edge solutions like a fingerprint-resistant matte finish, a sustainable printing process for vinyl and thermoplastic, and a pre-applied heat-activated adhesive.

Surfaces by Schattdecor: Endless Possibilities

Leveraging years of expertise, we create innovative products for the woodworking and furniture industries. Choose from a wide range of Printed, Impregnated, and Finished Surfaces , available in wood, stone, solid color, or fantasy designs. Schattdecor leads the way in endless possibilities, groundbreaking product development, and trendsetting design.

ShopBot Tools

At ShopBot Tools, we dedicate our energy and resources to offering the highest quality and most affordable USA-Made CNC machines on the market. Design and engineering choices are based on thorough reasoning and always with our customer’s needs in mind. ShopBot CNC machines are used in prototyping, full-production cutting, carving, machining, and milling in a variety of materials, including wood, MDF, plastics, foams, and non-ferrous metals. Our full line of machines is oriented to be used for both standard and specialty operations. They are affordable, yet deliver the professional power and precision associated with much more expensive CNC equipment.

Our CNC machines range from the Desktop line – the ShopBot Desktop, Desktop MAX, and Desktop MAX ATC – that are highly precise and compact enough to fit on a shop workbench; to Full-Size Gantry CNC machines, like the PRS5 Standard, PRS5 Alpha, and PRS5 Alpha ATC that are great for cutting full sheets of plywood and other sheet goods; to more specialized and custom configurations.

At ShopBot, we not only provide a wide range of CNC machine sizes; we support the success of each user with a range of services, including technical support, an active online community, and production support services. Our tools are engineered, manufactured, and supported in Durham, NC, USA. We also develop and produce our own control system software and we use our CNC machines in our manufacturing facility, every day.

CNC MACHINE MODELS:

• ShopBot Desktop

• ShopBot Desktop MAX

• ShopBot Desktop MAX ATC

• ShopBot PRS5 Standard

• ShopBot PRS5 Alpha

• ShopBot PRS5 Alpha ATC

SIERRA FOREST PRODUCTS UPPER CANADA FOREST PRODUCTS

As North America’s leading distributors of hardwood lumber and panel products, our team is here to support your team.

Our purpose is to provide materials that enhance your business and the health of the planet. We aim to do this every day through consultation and partnership to deliver what you need, when you need it, by people that know and care. We call this Delivering the Difference.

We partner with the best mills and suppliers around the world to offer you access to the most comprehensive, on-trend range of high quality and sustainable products, including materials that are FSC ® Certified, TSCA VI and LEED ® v4 eligible.

Together, we will deliver the best solutions for you and your customers.

PRODUCTS:

• LUMBER

• PLYWOOD

• DECORATIVE PANELS

• COMPOSITE PANELS

• SOLID SURFACES

• EDGEBANDING

• OVERLAYS

• EXTERIOR PRODUCTS

* FSC® Certified, TSCA VI and LEED® v4 compliant products available

When quality matters at every step, start with materials that work as hard as you do. Delivering the Difference What you need. When you need it. By people that know and care.

POLYGRAIN

BY SIMONA AMERICA INDUSTRIES

Polygrain ® is a polymer sheet made by SIMONA AMERICA

Industries with a sophisticated wood-like grain and texture that inspires innovation for high-end and heavily used outdoor living spaces. Exceed limitations for use during all seasons and in all climates with this versatile and elegant material. Offered in three colors, Polygrain ® sets the bar high or its combination of longterm performance, durability, appearance, and ease of fabrication.

AREAS OF USE:

• PATIOS AND OUTDOOR LIVING AREAS

• OUTDOOR CABINETRY AND STORAGE

• OUTDOOR KITCHENS AND DRY SPACES

ADVANTAGES:

• EASY TO FABRICATE USING STANDARD WOODWORKING TOOLS

• HIGH-END WOODGRAIN APPEARANCE

• UV AND EXTREME WEATHER RESISTANCE

• INTEGRAL COLOR HIDES MARRING, SCRATCHES

STANDARD COLORS:

• OLYPHANT OAK

• SUSQUEHANNA GRAY

• NORTHEASTERN WALNUT

• BLAKELY BIRCH

• TUNKHANNOCK TEAK

• LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

• OUTDOOR SIGNS

• MARINA ARCHITECTURE AND STORAGE

POLYGRAIN

Polygrain® is a polymer sheet made by SIMONA AMERICA Industries with a sophisticated wood-like grain and texture that inspires innovation for high-end and heavily used outdoor living spaces. Exceed limitations for use during all seasons and in all climates with this versatile and elegant material. Offered in three colors, Polygrain® sets the bar high for its combination of longterm performance, durability, appearance and fabrication ease and consistency.

AREAS OF USE:

• SOLID POLYMER COMPOSITION WON’T DELAMINATE, ROT OR SPLINTER

• MAINTENANCE-FREE, EASY TO CLEAN

• EXCELLENT IMPACT RESISTANCE

• 100% RECYCLABLE

• CUSTOM COLORS AND SIZES ON REQUEST

Check out our latest online tool SIMONA Vision Factory, an in-browser 3D model visualizer. Pick and choose from our wide range of colors and textures such as, Polygrain ® Blakely Birch and incorporate them into your own projects using our downloadable texture library. www.simonavisionfactory.com

• PATIOS AND OUTDOOR LIVING AREAS

• OUTDOOR CABINETRY AND STORAGE

• OUTDOOR KITCHENS AND DRY SPACES

ADVANTAGES:

• EASY TO FABRICATE USING STANDARD WOODWORKING TOOLS

• HIGH-END WOODGRAIN APPEARANCE

• UV AND EXTREME WEATHER RESISTANCE

• LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

• INTEGRAL COLOR HIDES MARRING, SCRATCHES

• OUTDOOR SIGNS

• MARINA ARCHITECTURE AND STORAGE

• SOLID POLYMER COMPOSITION WON’T DELAMINATE, ROT OR SPLINTER

• MAINTENANCE-FREE, EASY TO CLEAN

• EXCELLENT IMPACT RESISTANCE

• 100% RECYCLABLE

Check out our latest online tool SIMONA Vision Factory, an in-browser 3D model visualizer. Pick and choose from our wide range of colors and textures such as, Polygrain® Blakely Birch and incorporate them into your own projects using our downloadable

Check out our latest online tool SIMONA Vision Factory, an in-browser 3D model visualizer. Pick and choose from our wide range of colors and textures such as, Polygrain® Blakely Birch and incorporate them into your own projects using our downloadable texture library. www.simonavisionfactory.com

STATES INDUSTRIES

States Industries LLC is a privately held, hardwood panel producer located in Eugene, Oregon, in the heart of America’s wood products manufacturing region. We have established a reputation for innovation by consistently introducing products and processes targeted to improve our customer’s capabilities and the value of their products.

Each workday at States, more than 300 individuals bring their skill, ingenuity and dedication to the task of creating and supplying quality, hardwood panel products to North American woodworkers. Millwrights, electricians, press operators, finish line technicians and all of States’ employees create a culture that supports and encourages the fulfillment of our customer’s requests. States maintains bills-of-material for more than 400,000 constructions and typically adds 10 new ones daily, each to meet a customer’s very specific application. No other manufacturer in our industry is more responsive to the specialized needs of woodworking.

• APPLEPLY

• ARMORCORE

• NOVA - Prefinished Panels

• NOVA LAB

• NOVA-SI

• VERSA

• CUSTOM QUANTITIES

• COMPONABILITY (Ask us about our component division)

• WALL PANELING

STEVENSWOOD

ELEVATE YOUR DESIGN

STEVENSWOOD® continues to redefine surface innovation with a growing portfolio designed for designers and fabricators. Proudly manufactured in Illinois, STEVENSWOOD® produces all of its Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL) panels in-house, ensuring precision quality and a commitment to American craftsmanship.

This year, STEVENSWOOD® introduced nine new EIR Walnut designs, each carefully scanned from real wood veneer to capture the beauty and authenticity of natural grain with the durability of TFL. The result is a surface collection that feels as genuine as it looks, perfect for both contemporary and timeless spaces.

For exterior applications, Aqualence is setting new standards. This exterior-grade MDF is engineered to be water- and UV-resistant, offering a high-performance solution for outdoor kitchens, hospitality environments, and architectural design projects exposed to the elements.

With over 100 TFL colors available across woodgrains, solids, and abstract designs, STEVENSWOOD® continues to inspire creativity through texture, tone, and technology. And coming soon Optamatte, a next-generation anti-fingerprint surface available in both solid colors and woodgrain finishes, offering a smooth, elegant matte experience.

SWISS KRONO OR LLC

Our panels feature an exceptionally high percentage of western pine fiber. With more than 90% pine content, it delivers excellent machinability that extends tool life, increases productivity, and reduces costs. The light tan color supports the use of thin and light papers, veneers, and melamines, while the consistent color, surface, and core qualities ensure reliability from panel to panel. Manufactured with no added formaldehyde (NAF), every board is guaranteed smooth—ideal for all laminating applications. Our cross-panel sanding process, combined with panels sawn after sanding to eliminate thin edges, produces the smoothest panels in the industry and maximizes production with higher yields.

KEY FEATURES

• Available FSC-certified (FreeForm®) FSC®-C219956

• NAF Validated (SCS-NAF-04354)

• 100% Post-Industrial Recycled/Recovered Content

• High Pine Content

• CARB Exempt

• EPA TSCA Title VI Compliant

• Available Moisture Resistant

• Declare Product

PARTICLEBOARD GRADES

• Commercial

• Industrial

• Industrial 2

• Industrial 3

• MR10

• MR50

APPLICATIONS

• LEED® & Living Building Challenge

• Schools

• Hospitals

• Hospitality

• Airports

• Cabinetry

• Laminate substrate

• Furniture

• Casework

• Fixtures

Manufactured at Klamath Falls, Oregon USA

Inquiry: dominic.mattosjr@swisskrono.com

800 547 1793 | swisskrono.com/us

SYNERGY THERMAL FOILS

3D LAMINATES, 2D PET FLAT LAMINATES, FINISH FOILS

Synergy Thermal Foils is a leading supplier of interior laminates for residential and commercial settings. We source the best raw materials from all over the world to provide decorative surface solutions that meet the wood product industry’s highest requirements for design, quality and overall performance. STF laminates can be found in kitchen and bath cabinets, closets, residential and office furniture, retail store fixtures, healthcare environments, and many other interior surface applications.

Our wide range of products includes 3D laminates in a variety of textures from satin to embossed, plus 2D and 1D environmentally friendly PET laminates, finish foils, and matching edgebanding. All of our products can be flat-laminated, post-formed, membrane-pressed, miter-folded, or profile-wrapped for any imaginable residential or commercial interior project.

We stock more than 100 designs that match thermally fused laminates (TFL) and high-pressure laminates (HPL) offered by leading North American manufacturers. Our in-depth matching program allows you to value-engineer your components for a flawless and seamless design at an affordable price for a high-end finish.

FEEL THE SOFT TOUCH DIFFERENCE

You got to feel them to believe our new Soft Touch collection available in 17 inspiring colors. These 3D laminates boast a velvety feel and a stunning matte look that minimizes glare and fingerprints. Perfect for a variety of applications, from sleek closets and cabinets to stylish commercial decor. Matching edgebanding is available.

FIND YOUR PERFECT MATCH

Our North American stock is a small fraction of our selection; we offer thousands of choices globally. If you cannot find your match, feel free to reach out to us to tap into our global collection or custom option.

Visit our website to view our TFL and HPL Matching Programs.

ZINFANDEL CASHMERE MINT

PLATINUM INTERCOASTAL STONE

OCEANSIDE HARBOR MIST ARIZONA

TAFISA CANADA

Tafisa® Canada has a renowned reputation for developing trendsetting designs and offering unmatched quality in particleboard, HPL and TFL decorative panels manufacturing. Founded in 1992, Tafisa has a proven track record for being attuned to market trends, offering a production capacity that is second to none and providing excellent customer service. The company continuously invests every year to not only improve its operational excellence but also ensure that all manufacturing processes adhere to the strictest of industry, training, production and environmental standards. Tafisa particleboard panels are manufactured using 100% recycled and recovered wood materials, meticulously selected to create high quality, consistent panels for furniture, millwork, cabinetry and countertops.

Tafisa® offers two types of particleboard panels:

• TAFIPAN®: EPA TSCA TITLE VI COMPLIANT

• EVOLO™: CARB ULEF (ULTRA LOW-EMITTING FORMALDEHYDE) CERTIFIED

Tafisa also has a complete line of decorative surfaces: The TFL decorative panels, available in the embossed in-register (EIR) Sommet Series and the renowned Prelude Series, offer more than 140 standard colour and texture combinations. Tafisa’s HPL, produced using the same texture plates and printed decors as TFL, ensures a flawless match every time.

In fall 2020, Tafisa announced the completion of its new facility dedicated to the production of a new high-end lacquered panel collection called LUMMIA™. LUMMIA presents two long-lasting finishes: High Gloss and Perfect Matt, available in a wide choice of 37 solid colours and prints.

With the launch of LUMMIA, Tafisa continues to solidify its position as the North American manufacturer, offering the most comprehensive range of particleboard, decorative panels (TFL) and laminate (HPL) available to industry professionals under one roof. Tafisa has the most extensive complementary product program on the market available through its distribution network.

THERMWOOD CORPORATION

Thermwood Corporation, located in Southern Indiana and established in 1969, offers an extensive line of both three and five axis CNC machining centers ideally suited for the production, fabrication and trimming of wood, plastics, non-ferrous metals, composites and other advanced materials. Some of these applications consist of Nested-Based panel production, solid wood, Roller Hold-Down machines for upholstery frames and much more including the All New Cut Ready, Cut Center that doesn’t require any programming.

Thermwood also manufactures a line of Large Scale Additive Manufacturing (LSAM) systems that incorporates both the additive and subtractive process on the same machine. Thermwood is deeply involved in CNC technology and development, incorporating a high level of smart control technology in its products.

Thermwood CNC machining centers and additive systems are engineered using the most advanced CAD/CAM and structural analysis software. All weldments are fully stress relieved and the final machine is calibrated using three-dimensional volumetric compensation. We operate a well-equipped and staffed demonstration facility where we demonstrate the specific system we recommend to each customer, actually producing the customers’ parts while they watch. This increases confidence and eliminates technical risk.

Thermwood is a US-based company with dealers and distributors worldwide. In addition to machine manufacturing and software development, Thermwood has a technical service organization that provides support, machine installation, training, retrofits, custom programming and production assistance.

TOPPAN INTERAMERICA INC.

TOPPAN Interamerica Inc. (TIA) has over 30 years of US printing and industry leading design innovation. TOPPAN has gained international acclaim for its design development that replicates natural materials such as wood and stone. TIA has two major gravure printing manufacturing facilities in the United States (McDonough, GA & Morgantown, PA) where we strive to deliver high-quality decorative products, meet on-time satisfaction and provide innovative solutions to our customers’ needs.

PAPER REINVENTED.

Our groundbreaking PrimaLUXE is a water-resistant paper engineered to laminate like traditional paper, while delivering surface durability on par with film. PrimaLUXE combines the familiar handling, cutting, and wrapping of paper with advanced technology that resists water and oil, so your surfaces stay flawless without compromising the premium look and feel of our traditional decorative paper.

Perfect for Recreational Vehicle, Manufactured Housing, Furniture & Cabinet industries, PrimaLUXE brings your designs to life:

* Walls that stay immaculate, no matter the spill

* Moulding that stays pristine, even in high-use areas

* Cabinets and furniture that withstand moisture and daily wear

For more information on all the products TIA has to offer, visit tia.toppan.com

PRODUCTS:

• IMPREGNATED PAPERS

• DECORATIVE PAPER & FINISH FOILS

• 2D LAMINATES (ECOSHEET NON-PVC FILM)

o Available in interior & exterior rated specifications

• 3D LAMINATES (3DLUXE THERMOFORMABLE FILM)

• PAPER VENEER & EDGEBANDING (KIRI)

• WATER-RESISTANT PAPER (PRIMALUXE)

770-957-5060 | info@tia.toppan.com

www.tia.toppan.com

ULTRAPAN PET AND ACRYLIC PANELS

Ultrapan is a U.S. manufacturer of superior, customizable UltraHigh-Gloss and Ultra-Matte laminated panels. Our radiant finishes are perfectly suited for the contemporary lifestyle that embodies clean yet stylish looks for kitchens, furniture, displays, and myriad other residential, commercial and institutional applications.

Ultrapan PET and acrylic laminates feature highly durable decorative surfaces with excellent resistance to stains, scratches and harmful UV rays. These eco-friendly products are also easy to clean and maintain.

ULTRAPAN PANELS MADE YOUR WAY

• The Ultrapan collection features more than 60 surface options including solid and woodgrain designs; pearlescent and metallic finishes; Deep Emboss textures; and our new collection of Soft Touch laminate panels shown.

• Our wide selection of in-stock panel options includes cores made from particleboard, standard MDF, lite MDF, fire-retardant MDF, moisture-resistant NAF MDF, exterior-grade MDF, and hardwood plywood. We offer panels from ¼” to 1-½” thick in 4x8 or 4x10 sizes.

• Matching edgebanding, including 15/16” and 1-3/4” widths, are available in stock for most of our designs. Custom widths can be produced by special order in gloss or super matte.

• Anti-fingerprint (AFP) coatings are standard on all Ultra-Matte surfaces.

• Our expanded metallics collection is available on 4x10 as well as 4x8 panels.

• Our quick-ship program features the same color laminated on both sides of ¾” 4x8 MDF panels.

• We inventory a variety of substrate types and sizes to support our ready-for-production program.

• Special orders don’t upset us. Contact us to discuss your requirements.

Check out our website—ultrapan.com—to learn how Ultrapan Modern Finishes can add a superior elegance to any home, office or retail environment.

Order samples at info@ultrapan.com.

2700 Industrial Ave 2 Fort Pierce, FL 34946 754-702-2632 | info@ultrapan.com ultrapan.com

UNIBOARD ®

Uniboard is a leading North American manufacturer of engineered wood products, having an installed capacity of over 660 million square feet of raw particleboard, high and medium-density fiberboard, thermally fused laminates (TFL) and high-pressure laminates (HPL). Uniboard’s products are sold to retailers, distributors and finished goods manufacturers, which cater to the kitchen cabinet, furniture, office, home renovation and construction industries. Uniboard is renowned for having one of the most extensive product portfolios of interior and exterior design solutions for decoration and construction in North America, ranging from deep embossed and synchronized TFL textures to MDF Excel + MAX. Uniboard’s Digital Sample Box and Design 360 revolutionize project selection and design with seamless integration into CAD, offering access to 3D samples, highresolution files, perfectly calibrated colors, and textures for online use, real-time texture visualization, and comprehensive access to over 160 colors and 14 finish options in TFL and HPL lines.

Origins by Uniboard ® draws inspiration from what takes root — nature and craftsmanship — to tell the story of textures, colors, and evolving traditions. Each of its 12 shades expresses our heritage, transformation, and connection between past and present. Origins is an ode to the nobility of skilled work, and the enduring beauty of authenticity.

UNILIN PANELS

Master Oak: Better than the original

How do you bring the timeless beauty of rift white oak into modern interiors, without compromising on look, feel, or quality?

Awarded at IWF, Interzum and HiP honoree, Unilin Master Oak high-performance veneer is the answer: a budget-smart alternative to traditional veneer. Using patented Timber Touch Technology, it delivers:

• The authentic look & feel of rift white oak

• Scratch-proof: 3x higher scratch resistance than traditional veneer

• Easy to clean: wine, coffee or water? Just wipe

• UV-resistant: No fading, even after years of use

• Antibacterial surface as standard

• A prefinished surface for a flawless, uniform design. No lacquering needed

• Available in 7x9 ft. or 4x10 ft. with no pattern repetition across full panel

• Less waste and a lower carbon footprint: no knots, no imperfections, no compromises

Wood Revolutions

Why settle for a veneer that creates waste? Made by Unilin Panels, a division of Mohawk Group with a legacy of wood innovation since 1960, Master Oak redefines sustainable materials. The wood in the chipboard is 95% recycled. Prefer MDF? Unilin is the world’s first to recycle MDF and laminate flooring waste into new MDF substrates on an industrial scale.

9 Designs, Endless Possibilities

Master Oak is available in 9 unique designs. With more color play and up to 20 (!) times more texture depth than any other decorative wood surface, Master Oak sets a new standard.

Master the New, Honor the Old

Ready to create with a sustainable, high-performance oak alternative? Master Oak brings nature’s elegance, honoring the timeless character of oak in a way that’s built to last and ready for the future.

2B, 8710 Wielsbeke, Belgium info.panels@unilin.com +32 56 66 70 21 masteroak.com

VENJAKOBYOUR FINISHING LINE.

OUR PROCESS EXPERIENCE: CLEANING | PRE-TREATMENT | COATING | DRYING | AUTOMATION

We are your partner for completely individualized finishing solutions including exhaust air purification and conveyor technology. We do not simply offer you products, but sophisticated processes for almost all industrial applications. Smart and sustainable. From consulting to commissioning to after sales service. For small, medium and large companies. Tailor-made.

Every challenge is different

And so are our solutions. We offer you various finishing technologies (spray, roller or curtain coating ,etc.). For different coating materials e.g.:

• adhesives • solvents • coating systems based on water • or UV. Forget about products. It‘s the process.

Whether you are coating furniture, building materials, construction elements, or other materials, we can provide the solution for the entire process.

Established in 1963 - family run company with global network

“We are customer whisperers, innovators, networkers, strategists – and market leaders. Because we know how to listen, understand and implement.“

Christian Nüßer, CEO

Get in contact with us. Team Venjakob North America Inc. or Stiles will be at your disposal!

Venjakob North America 7828-1 Hwy 89, L9R1V1 Alliston ON, Canada 905 951 9966 | northamerica@venjakob.com www.venjakob-na.com Headquarters: Venjakob Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG

VORTEX TOOL COMPANY

For more than 30 years, Vortex Tool Company has built a reputation as an innovator, manufacturing high performance router and insert cutting tools for the woodworking and plastics industries. From its facility in Schofield, Wisconsin, Vortex produces tools with cutting edges in various grades of carbide, stellite, high-speed steel and polycrystalline diamond, and provides custom tool design, profiled inserts, retipping and sharpening services.

Vortex’s high-quality tools provide higher operating speeds, significantly longer tool life, and long-term value, having built a customer base of over 5,000 companies. The latest tooling innovation, the XP “Xtreme Performance” Series, is the result of extensive testing performed on Vortex’s own CNC test router.

In addition to its standard line of router tools, Vortex has designed hundreds of tools for special applications. Custom tooling services will deliver tooling in typically three weeks. Customer service is a high priority – technical support staff is available to answer your questions when you need it, now! Vortex Tool maintains a huge inventory with over 10,000 tools in stock so most orders will ship the same day. Call Vortex today. Get the answers you need now and the best quality tooling designed to do the job right.

Visit www.vortextool.com to learn more and order online.

PRODUCTS:

• WOOD TOOLING

• PLASTIC TOOLING

• INSERT TOOLING

• MACHINE TOOL ACCESSORIES

• SHARPENING SERVICES

WEST WOOD PRODUCTS

Your Source for Premium Prefinished Panels

For 29 years, West Wood Products has set the standard for excellence in prefinished panels and wood components. Our new 250,000 sq ft Toledo facility, paired with strategic locations in Charleston, Houston, and Long Beach, ensures close proximity to you and major ports. With a wide network of international and domestic suppliers and our own U.S. finishing facilities, we’re your Tariff Buster, delivering cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.

Discover our versatile product line, crafted to drive your success:

• Drawer Sides & Bottoms: MDF, particleboard, plywood, or solid lumber.

• Shelves: Robust particleboard, MDF, or plywood.

• Doorskins: Primed or prefinished for a seamless, polished look.

• UV Prime MDF & PB: Exceptional durability and finish quality.

• Prefinished Baltic Birch: Available in 5x5 and 4x8 sizes.

• Prefinished Hardwood Plywood: Premium domestic and imported options.

• Pegboard: MDF in 1/8”, 3/16”, and 1/4” thicknesses.

• Writable Surface Panels: Chalkboard, dry-erase, or dualsurface for dynamic applications.

• Decorative Paneling: DPI’s beadboard, woodgrains, and solid colors are stylish, durable, and easy to install for commercial or DIY projects. Made in the USA.

• Custom Colors & Prints: Tailored designs on MDF, particleboard, or plywood.

• Domestic and Imported raw materials.

Choose West Wood Products for quality, variety, reliability, and competitive pricing. Contact us today!

2943 E. Las Hermanas St. Rancho Dominguez, CA 90221 310-631-8978 | www.west-wood.net

2026

MATTERS Distribution

• Annual Convention Recap

• Tariffs, Trade and the New Reality

• Community: A Commodity You Can Count On

• Questions & Answers with John Geraghty

• Focus and Fraternity in EDL Program

• Distribution AI Frenzy

• Selling Your Distribution Business

• 2026 Member Directory

NBMDA Navigating Change, Strengthening the Channel

BY JENNIFER G. WILLIAMS

The NAFCD + NBMDA Annual Convention took place November 4-6 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, bringing together a broad spectrum of distributors, suppliers, and industry stakeholders from across North America for three days of education, networking, and business development.

Attendance & Participation

• Officials say the convention drew approximately 1,000+ attendees, representing senior leadership from distribution and manufacturing companies throughout the building products and flooring industries.

• Attendance was reported to be about 7 percent higher than in 2024, including 62 first-time attendees and 30 first-time exhibitors, indicating strong engagement and growth year over year.

Key Highlights & Programming

The 2025 convention featured several dynamic education sessions:

• Robert “Cujo” Teschner, former fighter pilot and bestselling author, delivered the opening keynote, “Debrief to Win,” focusing on teamwork, accountability, and executing under pressure.

• Steve McClatchy, leadership expert and author, led a session on relationship building and effective communication in business.

• Brian Beaulieu, renowned economist (formerly of ITR Economics), closed the event with his “Gearing Up for 2026” economic outlook — a session noted for its depth and forwardlooking insights.

Educational Innovations:

• The University of Innovative Distribution (UID) hosted its UID In-a-Day workshop, focusing on AI and distribution leadership skills.

Industry & Tech Insights

• NAW Tariff Update: Attendees heard from a National Association of Wholesale Distributors expert on tariffs and long-term supply chain implications.

Robert "Cujo" Teschner, Opening Keynote "Debrief to Win"

Brian Beaulieu ITR Economics

Experts shared Tariff updates

• Emerging Tech Showcase: Presentations from Cienapps highlighted the future of integrated product information systems, and Orbit (Haystack Technologies) demonstrated advanced sample inventory tracking solutions.

Networking & Exhibit Hall

• The Exhibit Hall format was refreshed in 2025 to provide more balanced exhibit and education time — a change that received positive feedback.

A variety of receptions and social events, including a highly attended welcome reception and a memorable farewell gala at the Chicago Cultural Center (complete with live jazz, bourbon stations, and themed entertainment), rounded out the attendee experience.

Gatsby-Themed Evening Event

One of the most talked-about moments of the convention was the Gatsby-themed evening event, which brought attendees together for a night of relaxed networking in a distinctly celebratory atmosphere. Inspired by the glamour and optimism of the Roaring Twenties, the event featured period-style décor, live entertainment, and creative cocktail offerings that encouraged conversation beyond the show floor. The evening provided a welcome opportunity for distributors, suppliers, and association leaders to strengthen relationships in a more informal setting— reinforcing the sense of community that continues to define the NBMDA annual convention experience.

Frederic Pare, Co-Founder, Cienapps Software Suite Freya Hannah, Head of Business Development North America, Cieblink Kevin Martin, Business Development MGR, Cienapps.

Leadership Transitions

A key feature of the 2025 convention was the formal transition in association leadership:

• NBMDA Leadership:

Outgoing NBMDA President Jon Minnaert (Aetna Solutions) officially passed the presidential gavel to John Geraghty (Würth Baer Supply), designating Geraghty as the 2025–26 NBMDA President.

• NAFCD Leadership:

Immediate Past President Brian Green (UCX) handed over the role to Austin Starnes (BPI) as the new NAFCD President.

These leadership changes reflect continued evolution in both organizations’ strategic direction and membership representation.

Takeaways

The 2025 NBMDA annual convention successfully blended thought leadership, practical education, and industry collaboration — all while fostering community growth and supporting first-time participants. With strong attendance, invigorating sessions, and significant board transitions, the event set a positive tone heading into 2026 for both NBMDA and its distribution partners.

Outgoing NBMDA President Jon Minnaert

New NBMDA President John Geraghty

Trade policy has once again moved to the forefront of business planning for the building materials industry. As Alex Hendrie outlined during his presentation at the NBMDA Annual Convention, tariffs are no longer a temporary disruption or a political bargaining chip — they are becoming a structural feature of the U.S. trade environment. For distributors and suppliers alike, the implications are complex, far-reaching and increasingly permanent.

A Tariff Landscape in Flux

While several high-profile tariffs are currently being challenged in court, Hendrie cautioned that even if those cases succeed, many other tariffs already in effect will remain untouched. The assumption that tariffs may simply “go away” is no longer a sound business strategy.

One of the most consequential recent changes was the removal of the long-standing de minimis exemption in August. Previously, goods valued under $800 could enter the U.S. duty-free, a provision that became controversial as low-cost products — particularly from China — flooded the market. Its removal has significantly altered cost structures for small-package imports and added new friction to global supply chains.

Beyond this, the administration has increasingly used tariffs as

Tariffs, Trade and the New Reality for Building Materials Distribution

BY S&P STAFF

a tool of geopolitical leverage. A 25 percent tariff tied to Russian oil imports — currently impacting India — illustrates how trade policy is being deployed to influence international behavior. Similar measures exist for countries importing Venezuelan oil, and while no nation has yet been directly affected, the policy itself underscores the broader trend.

Additional tariffs, including a newly imposed 40 percent tariff on Brazilian imports, further highlight how economic policy is intersecting with diplomatic tensions. The takeaway for businesses is clear: tariffs are no longer narrow economic instruments, but are deeply political, and therefore unpredictable.

Uncertain Deal With China

As Hendrie noted, U.S.-China trade relations remain especially volatile. Tariff threats between the two countries have escalated dramatically in recent months, with proposed rates reaching as high as 145 percent before retaliatory measures followed.

A newly announced trade deal between the U.S. and China offers some near-term relief, including commitments by China to address U.S. concerns around critical minerals, semiconductors and agricultural imports. In return, the U.S. has indicated it would lower tariffs to a baseline rate of 10 percent, suspend certain proposed shipping fees under Section 301, and extend some tariff exclusions from President Trump’s first term.

However, Hendrie emphasized that these agreements are not binding and could change rapidly. U.S.-China trade has followed a cycle of escalation and détente for years, and there is little indication that volatility will disappear anytime soon. Businesses should view such agreements as temporary reprieves, not permanent solutions.

Looking at Section 232 Tariffs

Perhaps the most significant long-term concern lies with Section 232 tariffs, which are grounded in national security law rather than executive authority. Unlike other tariffs that can be imposed quickly, Section 232 measures follow a defined investigative process through the Department of Commerce, making them far more durable and legally defensible.

A wide range of Section 232 tariffs are already in effect, including:

• Steel and aluminum products: up to 50 percent

• Automobiles and auto parts: 25 percent

• Copper: 50 percent

• Trucks and truck chassis: 25 percent

• Timber and lumber: 10 percent

• Pharmaceuticals: up to 100 percent, unless manufactured in the U.S.

For distributors, this has created a layered and confusing tariff environment. Many products are now subject to multiple tariffs at once — one based on material content (such as aluminum or steel) and another based on country of origin. Calculating true landed costs has become far more complex, particularly for finished or mixed-material goods.

Compounding the issue is the limited capacity of the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, a relatively small agency tasked with administering an increasingly intricate trade system. As Hendrie noted, much of this framework is still being built in real time.

What’s Coming Next

Looking ahead, Hendrie outlined a broad list of additional industries currently under Section 232 investigation, including semiconductors, commercial aircraft, jet engines, robotics, critical minerals, wind turbines, medical devices, polysilicon and batteries. Many of these investigations are expected to conclude by mid-2026, potentially bringing even more tariffs into force.

Importantly, the administration has reversed the traditional exclusion process. Rather than allowing companies to petition for exemptions, the system now enables petitions to include products under tariff coverage. This shift signals a clear intent to widen the tariff net, not narrow it.

USMCA Renegotiation: A 2026 Flashpoint

Beyond individual tariffs, Hendrie highlighted the looming renegotiation of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which enters its mandatory eight-year review period in mid2026. Despite being negotiated during President Trump’s first term, the administration has already signaled its intent to reopen the agreement.

The underlying philosophy is clear: the preference is not just for North American manufacturing, but for U.S.-based production specifically. As Hendrie explained, this mindset will shape future negotiations and could lead to significant shifts in sourcing, pricing and regional supply strategies.

Planning for Permanence in an Unstable System

Hendrie then offered a sobering but pragmatic conclusion: tariffs are here to stay. While political winds may shift, the rise of populism, bipartisan uncertainty around trade policy, and the increasing use of tariffs as a revenue and leverage tool suggest long-term permanence rather than temporary disruption.

Notably, even administrations that opposed tariffs in principle have largely left them in place. This ambiguity leaves businesses with little choice but to adapt.

For NBMDA members, the message is not panic, but preparation. Tariffs should be factored into long-term planning, pricing models and sourcing strategies. Flexibility will be essential, as policy shifts can happen quickly and without warning.

In today’s environment, the only true constant in trade policy is change. And as Hendrie made clear, the companies best positioned for success will be those that assume tariffs are not an exception, but a defining feature of the future trade landscape.

Timber and lumber are included in Section 232 tariffs

Community:

A Commodity You Can Count On

BY MICHAEL WILBUR, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, NBMDA

n. a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals - Oxford Languages

By this definition, any member of any trade association inherently enjoys a certain level of connection, camaraderie, and cohesiveness with the rest of its group. In my short time leading NBMDA, the depth of the relationships between our distributor, supplier, and service provider members is already ¬and undeniably evident. And while their interactions are necessarily “transactional” in nature, they are rooted in wellestablished and well-nurtured relationships. It’s also clear — from the inside, looking out — that much of our distributor membership is still only scratching the surface of what their association can offer in terms of community.

One of my favorite sayings is “fortune favors the prepared.” In other words, keep a trick up your sleeve, carry an ace in your back pocket, and break the glass in case of emergency. Think of NBMDA — your community — in a similar way. It’s a commodity, one that is available and ready for day-to-day consumption but that best demonstrates its value when it’s put to use.

And right now is a good time to put it to use.

This community is no stranger to the rises, falls, loops, and corkscrews of the roller coaster that is the North American construction market. But the tariff ride of 2025 was a bit extreme even by Cedar Point standards. For all of the ways that trade policy changes have impacted distribution, none has been as disruptive as the uncertainty created in the process. If business hates uncertainty, distribution business loathes it. The not-knowing wreaks havoc on the channel’s

core business model, which normally keeps the supply chain humming by anticipating demand and maintaining inventory accordingly.

Recognizing the likelihood of tariffs earlier this year, some distributors responded by stocking up in the first quarter; but ongoing turmoil has left participants in the channel struggling months later to balance opposing scenarios. On one hand, they have to consider scaling down inventory to account for the possibility of reduced demand as tariffs force prices up; but at the same time, they must decide whether to up their inventory to hedge against the potential for more unfavorable developments in the business landscape.

As external factors disrupt price and product availability, distributors are challenged to meet the standard they have set for themselves as trusted partners along the supply chain. But, with the support of a well-resourced and competent association, like NBMDA, companies can effectively manage expectations and protect relationships forged in trust, despite a wave of uncertainty. You can control the kind of partner that you are, even if you can’t control the environment in which you have to do business.

With the support of a well-resourced and competent association, like NBMDA, companies can effectively manage expectations and protect relationships forged in trust, despite a wave of uncertainty.

In uncertain times like this, it is in a company’s best interest to focus on the parts of its operation that are certain — or, at least, more certain. And leaning into one’s association, one’s community, can facilitate that pivot. At NBMDA, that means:

1. Leveraging your network. It’s important to remember that marketwide impacts on the channel aren’t exclusive to you or your company — they’re happening to many, if not all, of the companies and people that form this community. So, pour into one another. This is the time to call on long-standing partnerships and to carve out new ones. For example, if your usual supplier no longer has enough product to meet your distributorship’s needs and you are in the market for a second or third supplier to cover the bases, where do you find them? Through your community.

2. Take advantage of peer learning. Getting perspective from others in the same straits is what allows companies to stay ahead of the curve — particularly when that coaching comes from a non-competitive peer serving a market different than your own. In other words, instead of going through the storm alone, you don’t have to reinvent the wheel, whether we’re talking staffing challenges, warehouse efficiencies, software or process upgrades, and everything in between. Learning from how a peer handled adversity helps the entire industry weather the storm better.

3. Understanding the challenge. How does your association help you see the root problem…and the potential solution? DATA. The internet is great until paywalls start popping up. Nobody has better business intelligence than your association, because we can aggregate it; and we can tap into sources that may be cost-prohibitive at the individual company level. However, everyone benefits if the association leverages shared resources to procure economic forecasts, sales trend reports, HR best practices, and more and then shares that data across the membership base. This information may not be central to your expertise as a distributor, supplier, or service provider, but it is information you need to enhance decision-making. Your association has it, or can find it.

These are the three pillars on which NBMDA’s own value proposition is built, yet the association’s resources historically have been underutilized by the membership. That trend is not unique to building material distributors, but it is a reminder to them: Know that you have a community at your back and you have a community to tap into — you just need to embrace it. A good place to start is by spreading the love within your own workplace.

Membership in NBMDA is company-based, and the perks, education, and resources that come with it are available to all employees of your company, from your sales and marketing teams, to your back-office staff, to your warehouse crew. We’ve got resources for the entire organization, so sign everyone up — it’s included in your dues, and the payoff will be invaluable. How so? Your employees will make better decisions; they’ll be better trained for the job that they have to do; and they will be more prepared for whatever comes next. There is no way to truly future-proof a business, but I do believe that embracing your association is as close as you can come.

EYEING THE FUTURE

BY DENISE WILLIAMS

New NBMDA President John Geraghty has served as the Chief Executive Officer with Würth Baer Supply Company since 2018. He shares his vision and direction for the North American Building Material Distributor Association in 2026:

Q: What do you bring to the table as the association’s new leader for 2026?

It’s quite an honor to serve as an NBMDA Board Member and NBMDA Executive Committee Member. Installation as the new NBMDA President is a continuation of that honor. Having personally worked with many NBMDA Past Presidents in either a business or volunteer capacity, I know by example exactly what I am stepping into and the importance of this leadership role. There are many talented industry leaders that have served as NBMDA President over the years including our two most recent, Jon Minnaert and Don Plunkett.

When I decided to enter our industry in late 1991, I had no idea where my career journey would take me. Looking back, the NBMDA has been an important part of my professional development. Having spent over three decades in various leadership roles at two key NBMDA member companies — one in Manufacturing and one in Distribution — I think I can offer the association a deep understanding of both the Manufacturing and Distribution worlds. This knowledge base will also be useful in maximizing our partnership and friendship with NAFCD leadership.

Q: What principles/philosophies will you lean into for guidance as you move forward in the role? Did immediate Past President Jon Minnaert offer any advice to you?

A: No matter what line of business you are in, there is always a TEAM that makes everything work. At NBMDA, this team includes the NBMDA Staff, the Corporate Leadership at Smith Bucklin, the NBMDA/NAFCD Board of Directors, the NBMDA Steering Committee, our NBMDA Legal team, and importantly

our Distribution and Manufacturing members. Engaging and listening to the team should precede the implementation of leadership decisions. It is usually the case that the best decisions involve input from all stakeholders. The following quote from the French Renaissance philosopher Michel De Montaigne (1533-1592) sums it up for me:

“There is no conversation more boring than the one where everybody agrees.”

Jon Minnaert is the consummate professional. As a great leader, he often reminds me that it is what you don’t say that matters just as much as what does get said. Jon has been a wonderful industry colleague to work with. I look forward to tapping into both his and Don Plunkett’s NBMDA leadership knowledge moving forward.

Q: Challenges related to U.S tariff policy are well known at this point. As 2025 draws to a close, what other headwinds are NBMDA members facing in the new year?

A: NBMDA members, both Distribution and Manufacturing alike, continue to do their very best to manage the on-going developments related to U.S. tariff policy. Adjusting to these challenges is a work-in-process for all of us in our industry. As I tell our employees at Würth, the current U.S. tariff policy is just another business variable that we must manage successfully.

Other member headwinds include securing skilled labor, succession planning, staffing warehouses, employee training and adjusting to AI/Google e-comm realities. Naturally, the economy and how it impacts the segments we

all serve will influence our 2026 performances. Our friends at ITR Economics, among other professionals, should be called on to answer questions as to where our industry is going, economically speaking, in 2026.

Q: How will you work to address these issues during your presidency?

A: The annual NBMDA Convention remains a central value proposition to our members. The management team that I will co-lead during my tenure as President will remain focused on making meaningful additions to this annual event. Much work is done behind the scenes to make sure that the speakers and topics at the NBMDA Convention are in sync with the realties and challenges that exist in our Distribution and Manufacturing worlds. Keeping the event fresh is important too. We are dutifully focused on making the NBMDA Convention meaningful and fun every year.

Q: What does the NBMDA community have to look forward to, in terms of positive changes or what developments are in store for 2026?

A: As far as the Convention goes, in 2026 we will evaluate the scheduling changes we have made at the 2025 NBMDA Convention in Chicago and determine if the new format is working or not and then we will adjust accordingly at the 2026 NBMDA Convention in Dallas.

Keeping a healthy balance of large, medium and small Distributors as members of the Board of Directors is important to the longterm success of the association. This type of diversity fosters association growth.

We remain committed to the University of Industrial Distribution (UID) component of our association offering. In 2026, our UID partnership will beta test regional in-person UID training sessions for our members. Our goal is to lessen the financial burden on our member organizations by having UID come to you on a regional basis.

Importantly, in conjunction with our NBMDA Executive Vice President, Michael Wilbur, and the NBMDA Board of Directors, I will co-lead the organization and presentation of a new five-year NBMDA strategic plan.

Q: Impactful change doesn’t happen overnight – or even in one year. Realistically, what victories do you hope to achieve during your term that can contribute to the association’s bigger goals for the NBMDA membership?

A: I am very mindful that those before me have been stewards of the overall mission. I plan to lead in that fashion as well — addressing the day-to-day association needs where required, making a few agreed upon tweaks here and there and setting the organization up to continue to thrive moving forward into the future.

Q: In what other ways do you hope to leave your stamp on the association and what do you hope to take away personally from your experience leading NBMDA?

A: Anybody that has lived through Cub Scouts or volunteered as a Cub Scout parent knows that one of the basic premises taught to Scouts is that you should “do no harm.” For me, it is important to “do no harm,” get a few key initiatives complete and to build the organization in a healthy way for the next president to take over.

Personally, I would like to see the NBMDA membership grow during my tenure. Equally important to me is maintaining and advancing the content value proposition at the annual convention.

Fun Facts about JOHN GERAGHTY

• Years in the distribution business: I have been doing business with or working at distribution for 35 years.

• Educational background: BS Xavier University / MBA University of Detroit

• Hometown: Cincinnati/Chicago shuffle (both)

• Family: Wife (Sheela) & children (Elizabeth, Andrew & Sarah)

• Hobbies/passions/pastimes: Love to read history/biography and to clear hiking trails

• Something people would be surprised to learn about you: I am a recovering musician

• Something you’re extremely proud of: Beyond family: my professional relationships in the industry

• Something you’d like to do in this lifetime, but haven’t yet: Hiking in Argentina and hiking in northern India

2025 Graduate Finds Focus and Fraternity in EDL Program

BY DENISE WILLIAMS

From the University of Innovative Distribution (UID) staged in Indianapolis this spring to UID-In-a-Day hosted before the official start of NBMDA’s Annual Convention this fall, the association’s 2025 Emerging Distribution Leaders (EDL) program has come full circle.

Among the bright, motivated talent who graduated from the immersive training during November’s event was Jonathan Carroll, product manager at Fessenden Hall. The opportunity to receive comprehensive training in everything from financial acumen to managerial soft skills would benefit any go-getter, he imagines, but he found it particularly valuable given his own personal set of circumstances.

Supplier-to-Distributor Switcheroo

While Carroll had already been exposed to his fair share of management education — he holds a Master’s degree in business — his work knowledge before coming to Fessenden Hall was shaped primarily from a supplier perspective. He came into the channel about nine years ago on that side of

the business and has been working for an actual distributor for only about the last two. To be able to surround himself with much more experienced professionals, both coaches and peers, and learn under their wings was an aspect of the EDL agenda that truly resonated with Carroll.

On top of that, he’s the first to suggest that his MBA was getting a little dusty after six or seven years; so, the structured learning was equally beneficial. Fresh from UID back in March, Carroll was looking forward to really digging into additional coursework related to financial data. Eight months later during a break in the UID-in-a-Day programming, he affirmed his appreciation of those modules when he finally got to them. That portion of the curriculum turned out to be a great refresher, according to Carroll.

“I really enjoyed the case studies,” he noted, referencing fictional companies that demonstrated how to handle different scenarios by applying the principles EDL had taught the cohort. “I have everything [all the spreadsheets and other

materials from the case studies] in a folder,” Carroll disclosed, “and I plan on keeping it as a reference.”

Focus and Fraternity

Other big EDL takeaways for Carroll were less tangible. He made connections with some cohort participants, developed strong rapport with others, and relished the overall sense of fraternity shared by the group. Not fraternity in the sense of the raucous Greek-life behavior of certain male college students, but fraternity as in the feeling of like exposure, goals, mindset, and purpose among individuals occupying a similar professional space.

“We’re all dealing with the same issues,” Carroll said, suggesting that although specific details might vary from one individual or company to the next, there are very few ‘us’ issues in the distribution channel. “Overall, we’re all fighting the same fight, and it made me feel good not only to have people to kick stuff around with but also just to know I wasn’t dealing with it alone.”

And whether or not EDL organizers planned it that way, Carroll also learned focus and time management as a result of the program. With a demanding job and a two-year-old at home, he admits that activities like reading a book for self-betterment or even sneaking in some formal learning can easily wind up on a back burner. But with EDL, a nine-month commitment, the task at hand wasn’t just a casual pursuit. It couldn’t be put off for a more convenient time and, Carroll emphasized, it wasn’t just about him. He was representing his company, too.

Like every member of his cohort, he was able to cross the stage in Chicago to receive an EDL completion certificate because corporate leadership believed in him. Fessenden selected Carroll for the gated program — the only way in — and sponsored his participation, and that investment in him

would not be forgotten or taken for granted. So, even when classes coincided with a particularly frenzied period at work, he reminded himself that EDL, too, was a “work thing” to be prioritized.

Carroll found the program overall to be such a positive experience, and he’s eager to see some of his colleagues have their opportunity to go through the program so that they can compare notes. For those at Fessenden Hall and elsewhere who are fortunate enough to receive this gift of education from their employer, he has just one piece of advice: Don’t get overwhelmed. “It does look like a lot, and that’s not saying that it’s not a lot … but go into it with your eyes open and take it seriously,” he advised.

Visit www.nbmda.org/Education-Training/EmergingDistribution-Leaders for more information on the EDL program or to apply for the 2026 cohort.

Denise Williams is the Editorial Senior Manager at the North American Building Material Distribution Association

FOMO Fueling Distribution AI Frenzy

BY DENISE WILLIAMS

J. Michael Marks, a founding partner at Indian River Consulting Group, knows a little something about artificial intelligence (AI). His experience with the technology dates back as far as 1970, and his clients have ranged from the U.S. Army to Campbell’s Soup. As part of an advisory business that’s been providing distributors, suppliers, and service partners with guidance for more than 30 years, Marks also has a keen line of sight into what AI has to offer companies in this channel, too.

Although the possibilities are seemingly limitless, he says the deepest impacts within the distributor community will be felt in customer-facing interactions. “Taking friction out of the equation” for them is key, emphasizes Marks, who encourages distributors to identify those pain points by taking a hard look at the areas where their business is struggling. A sampling of the solutions that AI could facilitate, he says, includes:

• Optimizing deliveries according to weather conditions

• Flagging customer payable issues early

• Building a complex millwork quote from a list

• Scheduling deliveries and truck-loading sequence

• Automating order entry from email and fax

• racking CRM adoption rates

• Evaluating incoming leads

• Expediting delayed shipments

• And more

The chief worry among distributors serving the building materials and flooring segments, from Marks’ perspective, is a potential repeat of the e-commerce movement. Failure to recognize that sea change for what it was left late adopters feeling “left behind the curve.” Regret and fear of missing out (FOMO) on the “next big thing” is now driving heavy interest in AI by industry participants eager to preserve their ability to compete. While Marks has been approached by numerous distribution professionals who believe they’re already too far behind to catch up, he assures that business is barely scratching the surface of AI’s potential.

True, he acknowledges, the innovation is moving at a rapid clip — even faster than seen with e-commerce. It’s evident in the origin of content found on the web, for example, with more of it now attributed to generative AI (genAI) than to human sources. Even so, Marks frames the AI landscape as the Wild, Wild West. “We haven’t seen the worst of what the technology can do, nor the extent of the good,” he reasons. “These are still the early days; it’s going to be years before it fundamentally changes the business.” That being said, he adds, distributors still have time to harness the transformative power of AI.

Wading Into the AI Waters

Distributors just venturing into AI may wonder how to get started. According to Marks, it’s as simple as choosing a process within the organization that AI might streamline,

enhance, accelerate, or otherwise make better. The most viable targets will be repeatable, predictable physical work — like packaging or assembly line tasks — while unpredictable physical activities like construction are a much bigger gamble. If you’re still unsure after ruling out poor candidates for automation, Marks has a simple formula: Consider a couple of key questions and be honest with yourself about the answers. “Where do you suck the most?” he asks bluntly, but benignly. “What do customers complain about the most?” That’s your process, your use-case scenario.

Now what?

• As you explore AI as a single-point solution for your company’s weak link, Marks emphasizes that although artificial intelligence is involved, AI integration shouldn’t be mistaken for an IT project, because it’s not. “It’s not about technology,” he explains, “but about organizational changes — the ability of a company to change.” That onus lands squarely on the shoulders of senior management, who bear the responsibility of pursuing the integration of AI into business operations and “steering the ship” through the entire process: including establishing clear policy to share the investment, addressing internal barriers, and setting and tracking expectations (either growth or a reduction in costs).

• To get the most out of a large language model (LLM), keep in mind that prompting is everything . Learning the nuances of communicating with AI — such as identifying the knowledge

base to be used to answer the query, using clear language, asking for specific answers targeted at a specific audience, defining non-desirable outputs, and including source material — is critical. The better you are it, Marks says, the better LLMs will serve you.

• Don’t be surprised if your pilot project fails — 95% of them do, according to Marks.

• Don’t rush to invest money or hire a solution provider. AI “experts” are a dime a dozen these days, and the hype surrounding the technology only contributes to the FOMO on display across the channel. So, Marks advises, don’t shell out for the first consultant that comes calling. Instead, he suggests, cultivate a reasonable understanding of AI; become a superstar in prompting/querying; and get literate in IPaaS (integration platform as a service), what he describes as the “go-to technology” for business-to-business distributors. Only then is it possible to make a solid business decision about when and how to move forward with the technology.

This article is based on Marks’ presentation, “Artificial Intelligence in the Building Materials and Flooring Industries,” as part of the UID-In-a-Day programming at the 2025 NAFCD + NBMDA Annual Convention in Chicago.

Denise Williams is the Editorial Senior Manager at the North American Building Material Distribution Association. Visit www. nbmda.org for more information.

Setting Things in Emotion: Selling Your Distribution Business

BY DENISE WILLIAMS

Amid all the uncertainties that arise in business, experts say at least one thing is for sure for founders: at some point, your company will change hands. The real question, according to Premier Path Wealth Partners CEO Michael Lehman and REAG investment banker Scott Mashuda, is whether or not you’re ready for that transaction or transition when the time comes.

What each of those scenarios looks like — prepared or

unprepared — boils down, they say, to three basic but critical questions:

1. Is the market ready?

2. Is the business itself ready?

3. Am I (the owner) ready?

It’s that last part that catches people off guard and throws

a monkey-wrench into the planning — sometimes tanking a deal altogether — Lehman and Mashuda share. An owner’s very identity is inextricably tethered to the business that they poured their heart, soul, time, energy, money, and faith into; and that makes the sale of said business a highly and undeniably emotional undertaking, however unanticipated those feelings might be. Failure to confront doubts and misgivings early on can undermine a deal in the works, or even cause it to collapse, the financial pros warn.

“Once you start this process, there’s a cadence that you follow through with,” Mashuda explains. “If you’re not emotionally ready, you’re going to break the cadence,” which then creates questions from the prospective buyer’s perspective. And once that trust is broken, Mashuda says it’s gone forever. “It might be a great buyer — the best fit for you, the company, and the community,” he adds, “but second thoughts and secondguessing will ruin the deal.”

’Tells’ of an Emotional Seller

Lehman and Mashuda, who specialize in multi-generational wealth transition, have learned to recognize the signs that a seller is headed for an emotional brick wall and is in danger of backpedaling. They propose that: If the thought of waking up tomorrow morning with no calls to make or return, no meetings to attend, and no decisions to make causes anxiety and feeds feelings of irrelevancy, you might not be emotionally ready.

If you have to think twice about whether to accept an offer that’s $10 million over fair market value but demands that you separate wholly and immediately from the company, you might not be emotionally ready.

And if you view the potential sale of your company as a transfer not just of wealth but of the value you provide and if the thought of retiring invokes feelings of guilt and betrayal as a result, you might not be emotionally ready.

Making Peace With Your Plans

Make no mistake, Lehman and Mashuda emphasize, you need to plan ahead and give yourself time to get emotionally ready. They estimate that 80% of mid-market companies — the bucket category where many distributors land — will experience some kind of liquidity event; and wealth management companies often don’t get involved until after that activity occurs. But Lehman and Mashuda contend that proactive planning beats reactive response every time. If you’re not emotionally ready by the time an investment banker or wealth manager comes into the frame, they caution, you’re already in for a roller coaster ride.

To save yourself from the vertigo, the advisors agree, it’s imperative that the vision for a sale is in harmony with family goals and considerations. As much back-and-forth might take place with candidate buyers, they agree that ironing out details with one’s spouse (if applicable) is non-negotiable. “Make sure there’s alignment on the life plan,” Lehman urges, wisecracking that a wife may have taken vows for better or worse but “didn’t sign up for [her husband] to be at home from 9-5!” It’s not really a joke to be taken lightly, though, he and Mashuda note, underscoring how the family piece deserves just as much weight as the liquidity part of the equation. Family, in fact, is the purpose of one’s wealth, they contend. After all, you can’t take it with you.

This article is based on Lehman and Mashuda’s session, “From Founder to Future: Navigating the Transition of Your Business With Purpose + Precision,” presented on November 6 at the NAFCD + NBMDA Annual Convention in Chicago.

Denise Williams is the Editorial Senior Manager at the North American Building Material Distribution Association.

"Second thoughts and secondguessing will ruin the deal."

Distributors

A & M Supply Corp. Pinellas Park, FL (727) 541-6632 www.a-msupply.com

ADENTRA Concord, NH (603) 369-6004 adentragroup.com

Advanced Hardware Supply, Inc. Boise, ID (208) 321-8089 www.advancedhardwaresupply.com

Aetna Building Solutions Maywood, IL (815) 968-0921 www.aetnaplywood.com

Alpine Plywood Corporation Milwaukee, WI (414) 831-4556 www.alpineplywood.com

Arthur Distributor Company Arthur, IL (217) 543-2166

Atlantic Plywood Corp. Woburn, MA (781) 933-1932 www.atlanticplywood.com

Bennett Supply Company Cheswick, PA (888) 236-6388 www.bennettsupply.com

Bond Plywood, Inc. Ferndale, MI (800) 247-5966 www.bondply.com

Brazos Forest Products Grand Prairie, TX (800) 777-7712 www.brazosfp.com

Cabinetparts.com

Pompano Beach, FL (954) 428-3800

www.cabinetparts.com

Charles McMurray Co.

Fresno, CA (559) 292-5751

www.charlesmcmurray.com

Charter Industries

Grand Rapids, MI (616) 803-5716

www.charterindustries.com

Chesapeake Plywood

Baltimore, MD (410) 244-0055 www.chesapeakeplywood.com

Direct Supply, Inc.

Grand Rapids, MI (616) 245-4415

www.directsupplyinc.com

Distributor Service, Inc.

Carnegie, PA (412) 279-7824

www.distributor-service.com

Dixie Plywood and Lumber

Savannah, GA (912) 447-7032

www.dixieply.com

Fessenden Hall

Pennsauken Township, NJ (800) 220-2233

www.fessendenhall.com

Forest Plywood

La Mirada, CA (310) 675-1200 www.forestplywood.com

Formations Inc.

Edmonton , AB (780) 893-7540

www.formations.ca

Frama-Tech LLC

Navarre, FL (800) 622-9663

www.framatech.com

Grander Georgetown, TX (346) 662-2280 www.granderdistributing.com

Hood Products Distribution Company

Hattiesburg, MS (601) 296-4817

www.hooddistribution.com

Horizon Forest Products

Raleigh, NC (919) 719-0877

www.horizonforestcabinet.com

Horizon Forest Products

Raleigh, NC (919) 719-0877 www.horizonforestcabinet.com

Learnologyworld

Boston, MA (740) 217-7670

www.learnologyworld.net

LeNoble Lumber Company Inc.

Long Island City, NY (718) 784-5230 lenoblelumber.com

Liberty Hardwoods Inc

Kansas City, MO (888) 908-0852 www.libertyhardwoodsinc.com

Lumbermen's, Inc.

Grand Rapids, MI (616) 538-5180 www.lumbermens-inc.com

M S International Orange, CA (714) 685-7500 www.msisurfaces.com

MacMurray Pacific

San Francisco, CA (415) 552-5500 www.macmurraypacific.com

Manhattan Laminates/ Roberts Plywood

Deer Park, NY (212) 255-2522 www.manlam.com

Marathon Hardware Mississauga, ON (905) 607-8665 www.marathonhardware.com

McFadden's Hardwood & Hardware Inc.

Oakville, ON (800) 268-0942 www.mcfaddens.com

McKillican International, Inc.

Edmonton , AB (780) 453-3841 www.mckillican.com

Metro Hardwoods

Maple Grove, MN (763) 391-6731 www.metrohardwoods.com

MJB Wood Group, Inc.

Cedar Hill, TX (972) 401-0005 www.mjbwood.com

Nashville Plywood, Inc. Nashville, TN (615) 320-7877 www.nashvilleplywood.com

National Wood Products, Inc.

Salt Lake City, UT (801) 977-1171 www.nationalwood.com

Ohio Valley Supply Company Cincinnati, OH (513) 853-3301 www.ovsco.com

Plunkett Distributing

Fort Smith , AR (479) 782-2190 www.plunkettdistributing.com

Plywood Company of Fort Worth, Inc.

Fort Worth, TX (817) 371-2977 www.plywoodcompany.com

Premwood LLC

Grandville, MI (616) 667-9500 www.premwoodllc.com

Richelieu America Ltd.

Ville Saint-Laurent, QC (800) 619-5446 www.richelieu.com

Roddis Lumber & Veneer

San Antonio, TX (210) 226-1426 www.roddislumber.com

Sierra Forest Products / Upper Canada Forest Products

Mississauga, ON (630) 231-0450 www.ucsforestgroup.com

Spellman Hardwoods

Phoenix, AZ (602) 272-2313 www.spellmanhardwoods.com

Spokane Hardware Supply, Inc.

Spokane, WA (800) 888-1663 www.spokanehardware.com

TDSG World

Old Fort, TN (423) 303-9025 www.tdsgworld.com/

Victor S. Barnes Co.

Grand Rapids, MI (616) 447-6168 www.vsbarnes.com

White Wood Distributors

Winnipeg, MB (204) 982-9475 www.w-group.ca

Willis Supply Co. Ltd.

Tracy, CA (289) 775-5814 www.4willis.com

Würth Baer Supply Co. Vernon Hills, IL (847) 913-2237 www.baersupply.com

Würth Louis and Company Brea, CA (714) 529-1771 www.louisandcompany.com

Würth Wood Group Charlotte, NC (704) 887-7921 www.wurthwoodgroup.com

Yorke Towne Supplies LTD.

Richmond Hill, ON (905 762-1200 www.yorketowne.com

Suppliers

3B S.P.A.

Salgareda, TV (42) 274-7053 http://www.3bspa.com

Accuride International Santa Fe Springs, CA (909) 645-7420 www.accuride.com

Arauco North America Inc. Markham, ON (416) 994-5441 www.arauco-na.com

Argo Fine Imports Metairie, LA (985) 327-6441 www.argofineimports.com

Axalta Coating Systems High Point, NC (336) 802-4716 www.axaltawoodcoatings.com

Bainbridge Manufacturing, Inc. Waterville, WA (509) 745-9555 www.bainbridgemfg.com

Berenson Corp. Buffalo, NY (716) 833-3100 www.berensonhardware.com

Birchland Plywood Limited Thessalon , ON (587) 434-1319 www.birchlandplywood.com

Blum Inc. Stanley, NC (704) 827-1345 www.blum.com

Brookside Veneers Ltd Cranbury, NJ (609) 409-1311 www.veneers.com

C.A. Technologies Wagner Group Louisville, CO (303) 438-5707 www.spraycat.com

Canusa Wood Vancouver, BC (236) 878-5391 www.canusawood.com

Chemcraft, Inc.

High Point, NC (336) 847-4320 www.chemcraft.com

Chemetal

Easthampton, MA (413) 529-0718 www.chemetal.com

Clarke Veneers and Plywood Jackson, MS (601) 366-0331 www.clarkeveneers.com

Columbia Forest Products Greensboro, NC (800) 637-1609 www.columbiaforestproducts.com

Commonwealth Plywood Whitehall, NY (518) 499-0099 www.cpiwhitehall.com

Comtrad Strategic Sourcing Mississauga, ON (716) 341-1876 www.comtrad.ca

Corob North America Charlotte, NC (980) 254-6299 www.corob.com

CyCan Industries / Quality Aerosols

Woodstock, GA (678) 494-1112 www.cycanindustries.com

Darlington Veneer Company

Darlington SC (843) 393-3861 www.darlingtonveneer.com

Decospan Menen, Belgium (917) 573-6775 www.decospan.com

Deerwood Fasteners

Conover, NC (800) 951-2222 www.deerwood.com

Designs of Distinction by Brown Wood Inc.

Lincolnwood, IL (773) 852-2665 www.brownwoodinc.com

Dongtai Hardware Precision (Hong Kong) Limited Hong Kong 86 757 25332283 www.dtcdtc.com

E. Vigolungo North America Inc. Grand Rapids, MI (616) 322-2489 www.vigolungo.com

Egger Wood Products LLC Linwood, NC (844) 977-0053 www.egger.com

EPCO Sales LLC Flint, MI (810) 767-2050 www.epcohardware.com

FinishWorks Hickory, NC (260) 336-8410 www.finishworks.com

Flexible Materials, Inc. Jeffersonville, IN (812) 280-7000 www.flexwood.com

Formica Corp. Cincinnati, OH (513) 786-3065 www.formica.com

FormWood Industries, Inc. Jeffersonville, IN (812) 284-3676 www.formwood.com

Franklin International Columbus , OH (614) 445-1244 www.franklininternational.com

Freestone Forest Products Houston, TX (281) 404-4944 www.freestonefp.com/

Fulterer USA, Inc.

High Point, NC (336) 431-4646 www.fultererusa.com

Garnica Plywood

Logroño, La Rioja, Spain 34 941 51 23 53 www.garnica.one

Gemini Industries El Reno, OK (405) 345-2015 www.geminicoatings.com

General Finishes East Troy, WI generalfinishes.com

Genesis Products Inc.

Goshen, IN (419) 344-7514 www.genesisproductsinc.com

Grass America Inc. Kernersville, NC (336) 996-4041 www.grassusa.com

Green Forest Products Inverness, FL (352) 341-5500 www.greenforestprod.com

Helmitin, Inc. Toronto, ON (416) 239-3105 www.helmitin.com

Hettich America L.P. Buford, GA (800) 777-1772 www.hettich.com

Holland Southwest Int. Houston, TX (713) 644-1966 www.hollandsw.com

Hutton Forest Products

Cambridge, ON (519) 620-4374 www.hfpi.com

ICP Group

Andover, MA (978) 623-9980 www.icpgroup.com

John Boos & Company

Effingham, IL (217) 347-7701 www.johnboos.com

Kessebohmer USA Inc. Wilmington, NC (910) 338-5080 www.cleverstorage.com

King Plastic Corporation North Port, FL (941) 493-5502 www.kingplastic.com

Knape & Vogt Company

Grand Rapids, MI

www.kv.com

Lexington Manufacturing Minneapolis, MN (763) 722-9796 www.lexingtonmfg.com

M.L. Campbell Cleveland, OH (216) 566-2104 www.mlcampbell.com

Meganite Solid Surfaces Ontario, CA (800) 836-1118 www.meganite.com

Michigan Maple/Bally Block Co's. Petoskey, MI (231) 347-4170 www.butcherblock.com

Milesi Wood Coatings

Glendale Heights, IL (224) 434-7990 www.milesi.us

Modern Advanced Manufacturing

Rockford, IL (815) 847-7940 www.moderngroupusa.com

Murphy Plywood Eugene, OR (541) 461-4545 www.murphyplywood.com

NewStar Adhesives, Inc.

Weston, MA (855) 497-0800 www.newstaradhesives.com

NSP Panels and More Commerce, GA (843) 340-1155 www.nsp-panels.com

Olon Industries, Inc.

Georgetown, ON (905) 877-7300 www.olon.com

Panolam Surface Systems

Shelton, CT (203) 925-1556 www.panolam.com

Peter Meier Inc.

Kernersville, NC (336) 336-7774 www.petermeier.com

Plummer Forest Products

Post Falls, ID (208) 773-7521 plummerforestproducts.com

PoliLam

League City, TX (956) 832-4798 www.polilam.com

Pro-Ply Custom Plywood Inc.

Ingersoll, ON (905) 564-2327 http://www.proply.com

Rev-A-Shelf LLC

Jeffersontown, KY (502) 499-5835 www.rev-a-shelf.com

Richwood Industries Inc.Makers of PolyBak

Grand Rapids, MI (616) 243-2700 www.richwoodind.com

Rincomatic

Villamalea, Albacete, Spain 0034 967 486 010 www.rincomatic.com

Roseburg Forest Products LP Roseburg, OR (870) 866-1052 www.roseburg.com

Shelter Forest International Portland, OR (503) 450-0900 www.tigerply.com

SiYi America

Houston, TX (917) 200-7925 www.siyiamerica.com

States Industries Eugene, OR (541) 688-7871 www.statesind.com

Sugatsune America Inc. Carson, CA (630) 519-4104 www.sugatsune.com

Sureteco North America

Temple, PA (610) 858-0031 www.surteconorthamerica.com

Tafisa Canada Dorval, QC (514) 780-1324 www.tafisa.ca

Timber Products Company Springfield, OR (541) 744-4223 www.timberproducts.com

Titus Precision Columbia City, IN (260) 248-5205 www.titusplus.com

U.S. Futaba Chesapeake, VA (757) 549-0036 www.usfutaba.com

Ultrapan

Coral Springs, FL (754) 702-2632 www.synergythermofoils.com

Uneeda Enterprizes, Inc.

Spring Valley, NY (845) 875-6260 www.uneeda.com

Uniboard Canada Laval, QC (708) 541-8343 www.uniboard.com

Unilin, division panels Wielsbeke, VWV (47) 630-4459 masteroak.com

USply

Medley, FL (305) 722-6622 www.usply.net

Veneer Technologies Inc.

Newport, NC (252) 223-8025 www.veneertech.com

VT Industries, Inc.

Holstein, IA (712) 368-4381 www.vtindustries.com

Weyerhaeuser MDF

Columbia Falls, MT (406) 892-6180 www.woodbywy.com

Wilsonart LLC

Temple, TX (864) 430-0188 www.wilsonart.com

Winksy International

Ajman, UAE 971 521 614 262 www.winksyinternational.com

Service Providers

Beneficial Product Solutions

Lodi, WI (920) 858-1550 beneficialsolutions.com/

Calusa Marketing

Saint Petersburg, FL (727) 342-6918 www.calusamarketing.com

Cienapps Ave Maria, FL (438) 282-7156 www.cienapps.com/en

DispatchTrack Campbell, CA (866) 437-3573 www.dispatchtrack.com

DMSI Software Omaha, NE (402) 330-6620 www.dmsi.com

Epicor

Austin, TX (770) 518-5429 www.epicor.com

Federated Insurance

Owatonna MN (800) 533-0472 www.federatedinsurance.com

First American Equipment Finance

Victor, NY (716) 208-1324 faef.com

Infor (US), LLC Alpharetta, GA (646) 336-1700 www.infor.com

Kitchen365 Duluth, GA (678) 666-0628 www.kitchen365.com

Modulo Cloud Solutions Toronto, ON (1226) 237-2222 www.modulocloudsolutions.com

Nuvo

San Francisco, CA (415) 272-3552 www.nuvo.com

Profit2 Overland Park, KS (913) 579-9215 www.profit2.com

Sampling International Irvine, CA (800) 933-5232 www.samplinginternational.com

TOOLBOX

Santa Monica, CA (647) 765-6242 www.toolbx.com

330 North Wabash Avenue, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60611

TELEPHONE: 888-747-7862 or 312-321-6845 FAX: 312-644-0310

EMAIL: info@nbmda.org WEBSITE: www.nbmda.org

PROFESSIONAL STAFF:

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT: Michael Wilbur

OPERATIONS MANAGER: Megan Sisson

SALES SENIOR MANAGER: Scott Narug

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER: Sean Dillon

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2026 S&P Master Guide

Master 2026

UNITING MATERIALS, TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN

DEPARTMENTS

KBIS Gears up for Final Orlando Event

Why an Annual Industry Benchmark Matters

More Than Ever

2026 MASTER

Plywood in 2026

What’s Changing and What’s

Holding Strong

Plywood as a substrate system

DIRECTORY

SOFTWOOD PLYWOOD

What to watch in 2026

2026 Trends in the Plywood Market

Fiberboard in 2026

Precision, Performance, and the Backbone of Modern Surfaces

Fiberboard as a premium finishing platform

Automation is reshaping how fiberboard is evaluated

Sustainability through efficiency and lifecycle value

Fiberboard as part of an integrated surface system

DIRECTORY

MDF

watch

Laminates in 2026

Design Freedom, Performance Demands, and the Next Phase of Surface Innovation

What to watch in 2026

2026 Trends in the Laminates Market

Shorter cycles, faster response

DIRECTORY

HIGH PRESSURE LAMINATES

LOW-PRESSURE LAMINATES

Veneers in 2026

Authenticity, Precision, and the Art of Engineered Natural Surfaces

Authenticity remains the core value, but predictability is rising

Engineered and recon veneers gain strategic importance

Precision substrates and bonding matter more than ever

Finishing performance defines success

Sustainability and responsible sourcing take center stage

DIRECTORY

VENEERS

What to watch in 2026

2026 Trends in the Veneers Market

Edgebanding & Edge Treatments in 2026

Where Finish Quality Meets Manufacturing Reality

DIRECTORY

EDGE TREATMENT PRODUCTS

What to watch

Surface Coatings in 2026

Where Finish Quality Meets Manufacturing Reality

Finish quality is rising

Beyond scratch resistance

Automation is reshaping coating selection

DIRECTORY

COATINGS

What to watch in 2026

Lightweight Papers and Décor Foils in 2026

Design Agility, Efficiency, and Surface Versatility

Speed to market is a defining advantage

Visual sophistication continues to rise

Performance expectations are increasing

Integration with automated manufacturing

DIRECTORY

DECORATIVE FOILS & LIGHTWEIGHT PAPERS

What to watch in 2026

2026 Trends in the Decorative Foils & Lightweight Papers Market

Adhesives

The Invisible Technology Holding Modern Surfaces Together

Speed and efficiency drive adhesive innovation

Sustainability and emissions are shaping formulation choices

Adhesives play a critical role in surface quality

DIRECTORY

What to watch in 2026

2026 Trends in the Adhesives Market

Technology & Software in 2026

Digital Infrastructure for a Smarter Surface Industry

Automation moves from advantage to expectation

Data visibility becomes a competitive necessity

Design-to-production integration tightens