IWF 2022: Approaches to Computer Automation Vary by Plant Size and Product

With more than 750 exhibitors booked and hundreds more to come, IWF 2022 is on track to deliver more woodworking technology and design innovations. Woodworking machinery makers have continuously improved the operation of equipment, with electronics simplifying set-up and operation. From freestanding floor machinery to highly sophisticated, high volume CNC production systems, visitors to IWF […]

Diverzify Forms World’s Largest Contract Flooring Installer

Itasca, IL—Diverzify, a large Itasca, IL contract flooring installation firm, acquired two of Shaw Industries’ contract flooring divisions to form the world’s largest independent firm in its field. Part of Warren Buffet’s Bershire Hathaway, Shaw industries makes hardwood, laminate, resilient, tile, and carpet flooring. Shaw sold its Spectra Contract Flooring and ProSpectra Contract Flooring in […]

Hardwoods Distribution Acquires Mid-Am Building Supply

Centralia, IL—Hardwoods Distribution Inc.’s subsidiary has entered into an agreement to acquire the assets and assume some working capital liabilities of Mid-Am Building Supply, Inc., a 364-employee, $270 million wholesale building products distributor. Based in Centralia, IL and founded in 1967, Mid-Am reaches over 1,600 ship-to customer locations. Its management team will continue to lead […]

Aaron’s Rent-to-Own Furniture Sales Rise as It Remakes Stores

Atlanta, GA—Aaron’s Company (NYSE: AAN), which sells furniture, appliances, and electronics on a rent-to-own basis, has shared in the pandemic-driven growth that triggered a boost in residential furniture sales. A sizable business—$1.8 billion in revenue, almost half of that in furniture—it has a large North American footprint with 1,300 company-owned and franchise stores, Aaron’s manufactures […]

Northland College Adds Mechatronics Degree at Marvin Windows Campus

Warroad, MN—Marvin Windows and Northland Community & Technical College launched a unique education program to provide advanced workforce skills in mechatronics. The program began in January at the Marvin campus in Warroad, MN. The program provides a modernized, human-centered curriculum that lets students structure their learning schedule around their individual needs, permitting them to advance […]