Muskoka Cabinet Company who continues to lead the way in technology integration and advances has received funding to purchase a state of the art finishing line. A real industry innovator we look forward to seeing what this company continue to evolve and innovate!
We did a webinar with Luke Elias, President in February 2021.
Watch webinar here» (A full list of all CKCA on-demand videos can be found by logging in as a CKCA member).
Upper Canada Ontario Launches the Uniboard® TFL Collection
Feb 11 2021
Upper Canada always helps you stay ahead of the trend with the latest designs, and our latest offering, Uniboard’s stunning TFL Collection, is a prime example. Bringing a sense of luxurious realism to any space with these decorative panels – it is a selection that is sure to inspire you to get creative with your projects.
From authentic designs to trendy solids, Uniboard’s leading edge colour palette observes modern urban trends as well as rustic and reclaimed styles. Uniboard offers innovative textures that capture the essence of nature’s inherent beauty, soft natural fabrics and authentic earthy textures. Perfect for retail, residential and institutional applications, you will never look at TFL the same way again.
Why Uniboard TFL?
To learn more about this decorative product line, browse the Uniboard TFL Collection.
For a sample, please contact your local Upper Canada Sales Consultant.
Upper Canada is a proud sponsor of the CKCA.
CHPVA is surprised and disappointed by the decision of the Canadian International Trade Tribunal concerning decorative plywood imports from China.
On February 19, 2021 the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (“CITT”) issued a determination that decorative plywood imports from China have not injured and are not threatening to injure Canadian producers of the product.
Celebrating more than 30 years of “creating lifestyles and building with care”, we extend our congratulations to Paul Tommasino, President of Cortina Kitchens for the acquisition of Niico, a high end custom designer and millwork manufacturer. We look forward to all the possibilities ahead for Paul and his team!
Click here for Announcement
Superior Cabinets is pleased to announce they have acquired R.D. Henry & Company.
Press Release here.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Richard Lipman, Wood Manufacturing Council
Office: 613-567-5511 E-mail: rlipman@wmc-cfb.ca
The Wood Manufacturing Council (WMC) is pleased to announce the recipient of its 2020 HR Award of Distinction -Stan Pauls, owner of Decor Cabinets, Morden, MB. The WMC HR Awards Program honors companies and individuals who develop and implement creative solutions and contribute to best practices in the wood manufacturing industry. The program was established to promote the importance of HR in our sector and give outstanding individual(s)/firms an opportunity to share their innovative ideas with others.
Our 2020 Award of Distinction recipient is someone who is described as a visionary when it comes to wood manufacturing and growing a successful company. His firm is at the forefront of the Canadian kitchen cabinet industry and is also growing continuously in the US market. Stan Pauls is a very intentional person, who has endless ideas and is described by his people as a great leader with a passion for craftsmanship – but his greatest passion is his focus on people.
Stan Pauls genuinely cares for his employees and is committed to their growth. He believes the company culture must challenge and support people to reach their full potential. And with this comes the expectation that everyone in the organization, seeks to “be better, to do better and to think better”. Stan’s desire is to have people “go home happier and have a happier home”. Stan has stood for and has worked hard to create family in his company – and it is now truly a family business with his wife Connie joining the senior leadership team.
Stan has an eye on the future – he is ready to revamp, build, expand, and market. His company vision is to be “Undeniably Different”. To respond to the needs of customers, the performance of Decor’s cabinets are top of mind, and Stan studies the requirements of different demographics, including aging Canadians. He consciously applies design and functionality to ensure Decor’s cabinets can best serve all customers.
Stan has recognized that digital transformation is critical to the success and growth of the business and he wants Decor to be the Digital Disruptor, not the company whose business model becomes obsolete. He recognizes that if the outside rate of change is faster than the inside rate of change, you will be disrupted. Even before COVID-19, Stan had his team working on how Decor can interactively work with partners and clients – developing new tools to reach people through technology and he continues to invest in this area. With the investment in a new ERP system, Decor is focused on streamlining their customer experience and internal processes. They are modernizing the plant floor to provide more relevant information to their operators and reduce paperwork across all operations.
Decor looks continuously at technology and improvement as key priorities. Along with significant equipment purchases to stay at the forefront, Decor is doing unique things on the operational side. The process by which continuous improvement is undertaken is always under review and subject to change. Decor implemented ‘2 Second Lean’ to achieve this and it has paid off. Employees have come up with numerous changes, from the simple to the complex, that have resulted in great enhancements.
With all the focus on being a leading-edge company, community involvement remains a top company priority. Stan recognizes the power to bring positive, measurable change to both the community they live in and those around the world. The company supports various organizations that give help to those in need, including Opportunity International Canada.
With the nomination, it was the desire of other leading figures from the wood industry to recognize Stan Pauls – citing his business acumen and his tremendous passion for people. The award was presented in late December, over Zoom, by WMC Chairman Pete Fournier, Triangle Kitchen, Dieppe, NB and his father, Roger Fournier, a previous Award of Distinction recipient. The WMC is very proud to recognize Stan Pauls with our 2020 Award of Distinction.
Wood Manufacturing Council wmc@wmc-cfb.ca 613-567-5511
1390 Prince of Wales Drive, Suite 302, Ottawa, ON K2C 3N6
In response to Ontario’s recent lockdown we provide the following information:
We have received calls from Ontario members asking for clarity around the most recent Ontario announcement about the lockdown. We are also sending this to all members across Canada for their information.
Blum Canada Limited, a leading supplier of furniture hinges, runners and lift systems, is helping to pave the way for what Canada’s industrial buildings of the future may look like.
The 61,000 square foot building, which also includes offices and a showroom, contains 6,400 pallet locations within a fully automated storage and retrieving system. Because of the efficiencies created by automation, the facility’s footprint is one-quarter the size of a typical warehouse. While standing 80 feet in height it stores more inventory in far less ground space.
During construction in 2019, Blum Canada’s general manager Kevin Tratt told media that the new warehouse would increase the company’s storage capacity by about one third: “We have to prepare for the future, and since our success has been built on quality products and services, we’ve designed this new building with those needs in mind.
“We’ll have a much larger showroom to better showcase our product solutions and meet our customers ‘needs. And our new, automated warehouse will enable us to deliver products to customers across the country more efficiently.”
ADG Architectural Design Group Inc. was engaged in 2016 to bring the project to life, and Tony Trusevych travelled to Blum’s head office in Austria where he witnessed automated warehouses in action. “A staff member would input an order on his computer pad, and inside the warehouse a picking machine riding a rail system would use lasers to locate the appropriate pallets,” he recalls. “A conveyor took the pallets to employees in a picking station, who then loaded the products for shipment. It was brilliant.”
Greyson Construction Limited was engaged early in the process and helped with the site evaluation, design development, value engineering, and budgeting. The project first required the construction of a new road for the five-acre building site. Hannigan Engineering Limited then determined the size and thickness of the base slab that would be required to support the new facility.
Eric Johnson, project manager for Greyson, says of the two-foot thick slab, “The pour was a challenge: we had to very carefully place the reinforcing steel, because the racking system would be attached to the slab with 2,000 anchors, and each of these anchors had to penetrate the concrete, not the rebar.”
Containers of parts for the racking system were shipped from Germany and assembled over a three-month period beginning in July of 2019. Cranes tilted the completed structure vertically, and Greyson then built the warehouse around it, along with the showroom and offices.
This type of facility provided unique benefits from a construction viewpoint. “The racking is the structure, so there was no need for structural columns, only insulated metal panels,” says Johnson. Similarly, the roof deck is rack-supported, eliminating the need for OWSJ and framing for the steel deck. Moreover, lighting requirements in the warehouse were confined to the bottom of the three aisles, and heat would be kept at 15 degrees Celsius, requiring one forced-air gas-furnace at one end of the warehouse with a duct system and fans in the middle, and an exhaust system at the other end of the facility.
As utilitarian as all these elements were, Trusevych says the project contained many opportunities for architectural expression. “Since the hinge is a key Blum product, I used the hinge as a guiding principle for the exterior office design. A vertical slab 25 feet high angled over to form the roof and cantilevered about 15 feet for shading purposes – and created a hinge appearance on a grand scale.
“We gave the building façade a European cabinet look thanks to aluminum composite panels for the office area and the insulated panels on the warehouse, and we also played with colours. The entire facility is white at both ends and black in the middle, which helps reduce the massing.” Large carbon fibre fins added architectural interest and also provided vertical shading.
A special landscaped area on the corner of the site was created as a focus of visual interest. “The patio walkout and the balcony of the facility both face this area, which acts as an oasis for staff and visitors and is also a buffer between them and an adjacent Wal-Mart distribution centre,” Trusevych says.
Blum will move into the new facility early December, Trusevych concludes. “It really is an efficient use of space and something that boosts productivity. I have no doubt that the automated warehouses will become common in Canada over time.”
HIGHLIGHTS
Canadian Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association (CHPVA) welcomes the Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) preliminary dumping and subsidy determination on decorative and other non-structural plywood imports into Canada from China. CBSA determined combined margins of dumping and subsidy of up to 203% for the vast majortiy of Chinese exporters.
Read full press release here.
Ven Spray One: plut it in and let it paint – tailored to the needs of craftsmen and small business.
Read more here.
Rishelle Tarr is a dedicated operations leader with a strong background in finance, sales, and business development. She joined Westwood Cabinetry in 2018 and currently serves as Director of Business Operations, where she plays a key role in scaling the company’s multi-family and B2B cabinetry channels across Canada. With a career spanning finance and operational strategy, Rishelle brings a process-driven mindset and a passion for growth and innovation to her work. As a new voice in the cabinet manufacturing space, Rishelle offers fresh insight into evolving market trends and the next generation of industry leadership. Rishelle is excited to serve on the CKCA Board of Directors, where she aims to support industry connection, knowledge-sharing, and a strong future for Canadian cabinetry.
Founded in 1990, Marathon began with a simple concept; to provide excellent customer service to the woodworking trade by offering affordable high-quality hardware and the best customer support in the industry. Over the last 30 years, we have been dedicated to our customers by creating a company with these cornerstone ideals. Craig joined Marathon in 2011, taking charge of their technology and web, and later all marketing. With extensive operations from BC to Ontario, Marathon takes pride in building long term relationships with its customers. Craig believes that the mission of the CKCA is in direct relation to Marathon’s approach to doing business. By building working relationships based upon trust and mutual respect, everyone moves forward together.
James has been around the cabinet industry his whole life, working in factories as a summer job. His father started Pacific Rim Cabinets in 1997 to manufacture custom cabinets solely for export to Japan. Over the years, while Japan remains an integral part of the company’s history and sales, Pacific Rim Cabinets now deals primarily with the custom home builders, designers and architects around Vancouver and the lower mainland of BC manufacturing custom kitchens, bathroom vanities, entertainment units, closets, fireplace surrounds, offices, among others.
James began working at Pacific Rim Cabinets in 2010 as the company’s accountant, he completed his CMA designation in 2012 and became the company’s President in 2018.
James works with the CKCA President and the Executive Director to manage and monitor the CKCA Finances on a regular basis. What’s the biggest advantage to being a member according to James? Click here»
Gerald is owner of Van Arbour Design based in Vancouver, BC. In business for more than 34 years, Gerald is a first generation Canadian with Dutch roots. Gerald loves building and knowing how something works. He is committed to change in an ever changing world and always looks for the best and most effective ways to do things. Gerald’s business is intensively client-driven: quality first, with integrity and honesty and transparency in the process. Gerald has been a presenter at the CKCA National Forum and is now pleased to be a member of the Board of Directors.
What’s the biggest advantage to being a member according to Gerald?
Click here »
Chris joined CNC Automation in March 2022 after 19 years at Deslaurier Custom Cabinets where he was a member of the senior leadership group and held the role of manager of supply chain and new product introduction (NPI). As a seasoned operations and supply chain professional, Chris brings tremendous insight and knowledge, both from the viewpoint of a manufacturer and now as a supplier. Chris is results-driven and prides himself on his work. He loves this industry and approaches it with passion and vigor. It is the same passion that has driven Chris to want to be on the CKCA Board of Directors. Chris was elected to the Board on June 15, 2023 to serve his first 3 year term. What’s the biggest advantage to being a member according to Chris? Click here»
James McKenna graduated with a business degree from Saint Francis Xavier University. After working in the natural gas industry in Toronto, James returned home to run the new family business Glenwood Kitchen Ltd.
Glenwood manufactures custom cabinetry and has been in business for 50 years. Mr. McKenna was finalist for Entrepreneur of the year award with Ernst & Young and his company has won the Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Award.
James volunteers with numerous charities and was awarded the Paul Harris fellowship award. Recently, he was recognized by Junior Achievement as volunteer of the year and by NB literacy coalition for his corporate responsibility
Rick has more than 45 years of industry experience and has been an active voice and advocate for the evolution of kitchen cabinets in the Canadian market. From the euro conversion of cabinets replacing face frames to the various evolution of drawers, hinges, lighting, accessories, and motion technology, Rick has seen and also led a lot of the big events that drive consumer demand and have pushed the industry in an upscale direction. Himself a passionate woodworker with his own home workshop, Rick offers the unique skill combination of understanding the industry and cabinetry from sales to design to innovation, right down to the nuts and bolts of making a cabinet hardware solution work.
Rick was previously a member of the CKCA board for 27 years, serving on all CKCA committees during his tenure. Rich has also served as a board member of AWMAC (approximately 10 years) and the NKBA (approximately 5 years) as well as 10 years in his homeowner’s association, including 3 as president.
Craig Bauslaugh is the Chief Improvement Officer at Columbia Cabinets, a Canadian cabinet manufacturer, with 170 production staff. He studied Arts at Laurentian University, where he competed on the varsity basketball team, demonstrating a strong commitment to teamwork and high performance. Craig earned his Lean Six Sigma Black Belt from Purdue University and is currently expanding his leadership skills through executive education at Stanford University. He designs and manages programs that enhance operational efficiency and consistency, while leading process improvement, production optimization, and cross-functional initiatives aligned with the company’s strategic vision. Craig also delivers Lean and continuous improvement training to management teams at all levels, and is passionate about building dynamic teams and fostering a culture of continuous growth.
Trevor has been in the trades for more than 26 years, starting off with 10 years in the tool and die industry in the Toronto area. After moving to Haliburton Highlands, Ontario in 2007, he started a small cabinetry company. Since then, they have grown to be the largest cabinetry shop in their local area. Trevor and his wife Angela understand the dynamics of starting, building and running a cabinetry shop in today’s time, while raising three children. He has always had a passion for woodworking, designing and building things. After joining the CKCA as a member in 2016, he was enthusiastic about what they were doing and had to offer. Trevor has a keen interest in seeing the Canadian cabinetry and manufacturing industry learn, grow and thrive. What’s the biggest advantage to CKCA membership according to Trevor? Check it out here»
Giuseppe is Past Vice-President of Marketing & Sales at Laurysen Kitchens in Ottawa. Giuseppe’s wife, Caroline Castrucci previously served on the CKCA Board and served as President of CKCA. Laurysen Kitchens was established in 1970 and began as a business operating out of the garage of John Laurysen with just 1,200 square feet. With more than 55,000 square feet of manufacturing space this family run business continues to thrive and a third generation is now very actively involved in the business. Giuseppe brings a wealth of experience having served on various Boards over the years including currently President of the Greater Ottawa Home Builders Association, Chairman of the Kitchen & Bath Program at Algonquin College Business Advisory Board, Chair of the Design Excellence Awards Committee for NKBA Ottawa. Giuseppe has a passion for cars and is also Chairman of the FCA Ottawa Ferrari Festival. He was Knighted by the Royal House of Savoia Charity and also by the Ethiopian Order of the Lion Charity.
What’s the biggest advantage of being a CKCA member according to Giuseppe? Read here»
Joerg Brauns is part of the Manufacturing Team at 2020. In 2001, Joerg moved to Canada to open an office for a Germany Software Company. Acquired by 2020 Technologies in 2005, Joerg held several leadership positions at 2020. With over 20 years of experience in the woodworking industry around the world, Joerg has managed ERP implementations and led a team of professional engineers and consultants, before managing new and existing manufacturing accounts around the world. Joerg is also a member of 2020’s worldwide Factory leadership team.
He is a strong believer that the collaboration between like-minded people will allow all of us to grow.
What’s the biggest advantage to being a member according to Jeorg?
Click here »
Sandra has worked in the not-for-profit sector for more than 30 years. Having worked for many different associations in education, medical and now wood sector. Sandra brings a universal perspective based on hands-on experience. She is passionate about not-for-profits because they work to support their members and the industry. Sandra enjoys “connecting the dots” and facilitating strong networking opportunities to engage members. She believes Associations are about fostering strong business relationships fueled by an empathic and sound business approach. She is an experienced public speaker, writer and has served on various Boards as a Director. She brings a well rounded perspective to CKCA.
Pete is an experienced entrepreneur – he started his first company at the age of 19 and has held a managerial role for 20 years. After finishing his degree in Wood Products Processing at the University of British Columbia, he joined the Triangle Group in 2000, where they currently employ more than 100 staff. Pete is responsible for all aspects and functions of new business development, product development, facility expansion and new markets. Pete previously served as Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Wood Manufacturing Council, was President of the Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association and is also an independent Board Member for a private Nano technology company called Metamaterials Technologies Inc.
What’s the biggest advantage to being a member according to Pete? Click here »
Luke has been in the industry for more than 30 years and only loves his family more than his pursuit of advancing technology in business. Luke is passionate about technology in manufacturing and in 1989 started implementing computer hardware and software to improve office to shop communications. Early on Luke invested in cutting and optimization software and invested in a a Nested Based Manufacturing in 2000. Today Luke is co-founder of SMARTMRP Inc. an ERP/MES automation software specifically designed for the woodworking industry. With SMART at its core, Muskoka boasts one of the most advanced panel processing cells in the world, utilizing Robotics, RFID, ERP and an AGV, for machining, sorting, labeling, transporting and tracking parts. These innovations have resulted in Muskoka having output three times the industry average. Luke believes the key to survival and growth is through integration of processes and automated sharing of information within the organization.
