June 3, 2021 | Bill Esler
Canadian softwood lumber tariffs double under a U.S. Department of Commerce proposal. The new rates vary. West Fraser goes from 9 to 11.4 percent; Canfor from 4.6 to 21 percent; Resolute Forest from 20.3 to 30.2 percent; and J.D. Irving from 4.2 to 15.8 percent. Lumber buyers oppose the move.
GreatStar Tools USA (Shop-Vac, Pony Jorgensen clamps, Arrow Fasteners) maker of hand tools used in professional and and in industrial markets worldwide, promoted Arrow Fastener CEO Gary DuBoff to Group President, CEO; Melissa Karlovitch to Group Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer; and James O’Rourke to the role of Group Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. Read more
Ashley Furniture Industries will open a 127,000-sq.-ft. upholstered furniture manufacturing facility in Chippewa Falls, WI later this month. The multi-million-dollar investment will create more than 200 manufacturing and support jobs. Hiring started in May. Read more
Sedia, a commercial seating manufacturer, expanded in Asheboro, NC, opening a 60,000-sq.ft. assembly and shipping plant a few miles from its existing plant. Sedia plans to locate its headquarters in the new N.C. facility.