Market Issues and “Going Green” Front-and-Center at IWPA’s “World of Wood 2008” Convention

Furniture World Magazine

If a rough and tumble economic cycle isn’t enough of a challenge for 2008, how about making sure your business is up to date on all it needs to do to comply with new regulations? Then, of course, there is the challenge of making sure that your business is “green.” IWPA announced that The International Wood Products Association 52nd annual convention at the Loews Royal Pacific in Orlando, Florida, will specifically address these issues and more with projections and insight from speakers from all key market segments that use and distribute imported wood products. Stuart Clarke, president of IWPA, announces an exciting program for the nearly 300 delegates and guests from over 20 countries that are expected. Clarke commented, “What better way to learn what to expect in 2008 – in production, sales, and ‘going green’ – than by having our key markets tell us themselves. The program is quite timely for our businesses.” “We’re pleased to announce that leading U.S. manufacturers and distributors from a cross section of U.S. product segments will address current business conditions, projections for 2008, and what ‘going green’ means to their businesses,” stated Brent J. McClendon, executive vice president of IWPA. Confirmed speakers include: Stephen F. Heese, president and chief executive officer, Chris-Craft Corporation; Chris Mongrain, president and chief operating officer, Emerson Hardwoods; Wade Beem, vice president, FCI-Office; and Ben Phillips, executive vice president, ProBuild Holdings.” Clarke added, “Businesses also need to make sure we’re complying with all the new rules and regulations that are developed every year. I’m very pleased that this program includes the latest information on the new formaldehyde requirements that California has adopted and U.S. Customs’ classification initiatives on flooring and plywood.” Networking remains a critically important aspect of industry conventions, and IWPA has enhanced these opportunities as well. The Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando ®, Orlando, Florida, is within walking distance Universal CityWalk®, Orlando's hottest spot for dining and entertainment and the site of IWPA’s closing VIP reception, dinner and show with the Blue Man Group that the entire family will enjoy. The International Wood Products Association Established in 1956, IWPA is the leading international trade association for the North American imported wood products industry, representing 220 companies and trade associations engaged in the import of hardwoods and softwoods from sustainably managed forests. Association members consist of three key groups involved in the import process: U.S. importers and consuming industries, offshore manufacturers and the service providers that facilitate trade.