ANNOUNCEMENT

New CKCA Advanced Manufacturing Peer Group to collaborate on manufacturing technology initiatives

January 23, 2025 / OTTAWA – The Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association (CKCA) has launched a transformative initiative for the industry, the CKCA Advanced Manufacturing Peer Group, tasked with harnessing advanced manufacturing technologies to address business challenges such as low-cost imports, demographic changes and labour shortages, and the rising costs of operations in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

The CKCA initiative is a model approach for collaboration and innovation in the industry, designed to empower Canadian manufacturers with their technological evolution. By pooling resources and knowledge, members can collectively develop solutions tailored to industry needs.

The Peer Group will begin its work with a “CKCA BEST Audit” that identifies business improvements by assessing operational efficiency, sustainability, and technological readiness.

Another focus of the Peer Group is to find solutions to close the productivity gap with U.S. manufacturers, an issue that has increasing importance given the threat of U.S. tariffs. CKCA recognizes that U.S. factories often leverage more advanced automation and processes, resulting in a higher output at lower costs. The Peer Group will equip Canadian manufacturers with the tools to bridge this gap, securing their position in domestic and international markets.

Chris Leonard, Chair of the CKCA Advanced Manufacturing Peer Group, relates that the group is open to all CKCA members meeting the participation criteria. The distinct benefit of joining is that members gain access to cutting-edge technologies, shared resources, and industry-leading expertise. For specific questions on possible membership, contact cleonard@kaizenlp.com.

Luke Elias, Vice-President of the CKCA Board of Directors, says:

“In many ways the kitchen cabinet manufacturing industry in our country is at a crossroads and I am excited for the potential of the CKCA Peer Group to take great strides forward for the Canadian industry. By addressing challenges like labour shortages and increased operations costs, the peer group will develop practical, easily adaptable real solutions to increase productivity, positioning our member manufacturers for a resilient and innovative future,”

Chris Leonard, Chair of the CKCA Advanced Manufacturing Peer Group, says:  “CKCA’s initiative empowers manufacturers and is a critical step for the kitchen cabinet industry toward sustainability, competitiveness, and growth. By collaborating, we’re building solutions that keep Canadian-made cabinets relevant and competitive. At the core, this is about safeguarding the future of our Canadian industry.”

The Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association (CKCA), established in 1968, is a national trade association representing the kitchen cabinet industry in Canada. CKCA works to inspire progress and innovation in the industry, by promoting excellence, facilitating continuous improvement and working to ensure high standards for design and manufacturing are upheld. www.ckca.ca

For more information please contact: Sandra Wood, Executive Director, CKCA