Title: Domestic competitiveness in secondary wood industries

Author: Bumgardner, Matthew; Buehlmann, Urs; Schuler, Albert; Christianson, Rich

Year: 2004

Publication: Forest Products Journal. 54(10): 21-28.

Abstract: As imports capture a substantial portion of the domestic wood furniture market, there is much speculation and concern as to the future of this and related industries. This study sought to obtain an industry perspective of trends in domestic manufacturing and importing, and to identify factors that might enhance domestic competitiveness. A mail survey was conducted between August and November of 2002 involving manufacturers in three secondary industry sectors and in two employment size categories randomly selected from the distribution list of a major wood products trade publication. Results indicate that perspectives as to the current and future state of the domestic industry differ by firm type and firm size, as do some opinions on ways to enhance the competitive situation of domestic manufacturers. This information can be used to assess the import pressures specific sectors and company sizes are experiencing and to develop plans for survival in an increasingly global marketplace.