January February 2013

MICA (P) No: 090/02/2012 ISSN: 0219-5704 KDN: PPS 1453/11/2012(022879) www.panelsfurnitureasia.
com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013
Cherry - the warmest

of American hardwoods
Flying the flag for Indonesian wood
Dieffenbacher: Power combination to excellence
An interview with Mr. Ernie Koh, Chairman, IFFS
The EU Timber Regulation putting it into practice
Cover: Photo Michael Buckley
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I-BOND is a registered trademark of Huntsman Corporation or an afliate thereof in one or more, but not all, countries.
FROMTHEDESK
PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA
Starting o
2013 right
Denice
Editor
Happy New Year everyone! 2012 was a very fulfilling

year for Panels & Furniture Asia. Just to name a
few we participated in many international
trade exhibitions and conferences, and we also
successfully launched our bi-weekly e-newsletter
which quickly generated readers in Asia and
Cabel
beyond. All these wouldnt have been possible
without your continual support, so thank you!
With the new year, we strive to work even harder to bring the latest
updates and most relevant information on the woodworking world to
you. Of course, there are many more stories to be told.
We kick off with a riveting interview with Mr. Ernie Koh, Vice President
of the Singapore Furniture Industries Council (SFIC), where he discusses
the changing supply chains of the global furniture industry (page 18).
With the US and Europe economies still down in the dumps, Mr. Koh
believes that Asian furniture makers need to redirect their markets and
look regional. He also believes that Asian manufacturers are ready
to meet environmental regulations such as the EU Timber Regulation.
On the topic of EUTR, our regular columnist Mr. Michael Hermens
discusses proof of legality and some of the possible loopholes of
this hyped regulation (page 10). Moreover, Ms. Jade Saunders, an
Associate Fellow at Chatham House and an Associate in the Energy
Environment & Development Programme who also worked on FLEGT
since the action plan was published in 2003, explains the procedural
information required to demonstrate due diligence (page 20). They
bring up a lot of good points and, whether you agree or not a
must-read for everyone!
Rounding everything out, we have two plant visit reports in this
issue: one is on Dieffenbachers wood-based panel production line in
Guangzhou HuaFangZhou Wood (Group) Co. Ltd in China (page 39)
and the other is on Perum Perhutanis plantation in Java, Indonesia
(page 36). We also have technical features from China FOMA (page
44), Weinig (page 45) and U-C Coatings (page 30).
Oh and if you havent subscribed to our e-newsletter, might I
suggest you visit www.panelsfurnitureasia.com/newsletter.php. It will
take 1 minute to sign-up and is definitely worth it.
Happy reading!
Singapore MICA (P) No. 090/02/2012
panelsfurnitureasia.com
Editor | Denice Cabel
denice@pabloasia.com
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Kenn Busch | kenn@kennbusch.com
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Malaysian MDF Manufacturers Association
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013
www.panelsfurnitureasia.com
FROMTHEDESK
Kenn Busch
Contributing Editor
The
design of
personality
The office of an eccentric

personality, according to the Trend
Boards imagination.
As the design universe continues to shrink and compress, all eyes focus on the
Heimtextil exhibition every January in Frankfurt. Why?
One reason is certainly that show dedicates a hall to its highly influential Trend
Forum, from which designers in both commercial and residential markets draw inspiration for colour, textures, scale, lightplay, and combinations of all of the above.
The Forum is the result of a Trend Board created by the Heimtextil organisers,
drawn from every corner of the globe. The Board makeup shifts every year, with some
designers and firms held over, and some are new.
The discussions for the 2013 Trend Forum began in March 2012, between Stijlinstituut Amsterdam, Brazils Orbitato Instituto de Estudos em Moda e Design, the Dan
Project of Japan, Global Color Research of the USA, Germanys Stilbro bora.herke.
palmisano, and Frances 2G2L Fashion Design & Consulting.
The result? Four powerful concepts under the umbrella, Being.
To feel at home, we need a space that we feel emotionally connected to, begins the book that tells the story of the Trend Boards
efforts, going onto describe our environments as an extension of
our personalities, reflecting our dreams and our histories. To explore
this concept the Board identified, or rather distilled, four powerful
personality types and explored the interior design possibilities that
might better allow them to be who they want to be.
The Historian is partial to the finer things of bygone eras, artisanship,
opulence and precious materials.
The Eccentric is a hunter-gatherer, attracted to eclectic combinations, kitsch, flamboyance and whimsy.
The Inventor wants function to be fun, and thrives in creatively
interactive settings that inspire and entertain.
The Geologist is a nature fanatic, and digs organic imperfections,
rough, unfinished finishes in the context of the unknown and the
unexpected.
For many in the furniture
production world, the whole
Trend Forum concept might
seem a little eccentric, but
efforts like this are very influThe entrance to the Heimtextil Trend Forum.
ential in the design world,
and have a ripple effect
through the interior design and furniture markets.
For companies that strive to create furniture that will be bought by
design-conscious consumers and commercial specifiers, a visit to the
Heimtextil website (www. http://heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com, and click
on Heimtextil Trend at the bottom) is required viewing.
Kenn Busch is also publisher of
www.materialintelligence.com,
and contributing editor to Wood
Digest and Interiors & Sources
magazines.
Photos by Kenn Busch
Early tones and organic forms in

exciting to the geologist personality.
May 06
The Evolution in Press Technologyy
10 20
13
LIGNA
Hanov
e
Germa r,
ny
Perfect board tolerances (down to +/- 0,05 mm)

Wide density range (350 1.000 kg/m)
High-speed (2.000 mm/s and faster)
Press width up to 12 ft (4 m)
Width variation up to 700 mm
Low maintenance and easy accessability
CO M P L E T E PA N E L P L A N T S
www.dieffenbacher.com
THE MALAYSIAN MDF MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION (MMMA)
A race to
the bottom..
A race that started in the USA and spread quickly
to Europe is now in full swing in Asia.
I am not referring to the race to debase national
currencies,
but instead the race to lower prices of
By Mr. Peter Fitch,
panel
products
including MDF. Over the past three
Chairman of
months,
prices
of
MDF have fallen on average by 15%
the MMMA
in USD terms. If we convert prices to local Asian currencies many of which have appreciated against the
USD (such as the Malaysian Ringgit) the percentage
fall is much greater.
So what has been driving this fall?
A very significant increase in the supply of MDF
with no subsequent increase in the demand.
New MDF capacity continues to come on stream
from Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam. This round of
investment will not stop for at least another two years
as new projects come to completion. There are also
mills in Europe, Turkey, Latin America and Russia
looking for a market as domestic consumption falls.
Our advice to customers would be to stick with the
suppliers you know and trust. Discuss with them your
problems and issues, I am sure they will work with
you to give you a competitive price, good service and
excellent quality. Maintain the dialogue with your supplier, they are your partner. Until the markets
settle and the supply versus demand equation becomes more balance, dont hold stock, only
order what you need and are able to trade within the delivery lead time.
Looking to the future, wood panel manufacturers need to be aware that later this year the
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will probably enact the CARB standards with some
amendments into a National US Regulation. In Europe they are debating on how formaldehyde
is to be categorised under the new REACH regulations (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation
and restriction of Chemicals). If it is promoted to a category 1A chemical, we could see standards
similar to the Japanese JIS F4* for panel products sold in Europe.
The complexity of doing business is increasing and the multitudes of standards that potentially
need to be complied with are costly for the industry and confusing for the customer (JIS, JAS,
CARB, EPA, CE, TUV, FSC, PEFC, REACH, etc.). As an industry we would welcome a global
harmonisation of these standards.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2013 NEWSLETTER
GLOBALTIMBERRESOURCES
by MICHAEL HERMENS
What is the impact of the
As mentioned in a previous issue, the

EU Timber Regulation (EUTR) will be
implemented in March 2013. Just a
short recap: the EUTR requires any
European importer placing timber
and timber-related products onto the
European market to provide proper
documents to prove that the risk of
placing illegal harvested timber onto the EU market is minimised.
In the last few months, we at APP Timber have been contacted by many
customers across Asia asking questions how to comply with the EUTR. They are
pressured by their Europeans buyers to provide proof of legality yet most of these
buyers are unable to outline what type of proof they require. Many of them assume that, for example, FSC certified products are automatically approved under
the EUTR, and we have seen a huge demand for FSC certified timber. However,
this is incorrect. The EUTR will not endorse any third party certification system. The
FSC has even indicated that they do not intend to change their policies to comply with the EUTR since, I think correctly, the FSC requirements goes much further
than just due diligence and as such will not pose any risk. PEFC is adapting their
standards and has confirmed that the new standards will ensure that any PEFC
endorsed products comply with the EUTR.
My biggest question remains how Europe is going to implement the EUTR. Is
each member state going to check every container of timber and/or timber
products? Or is it suffice just to provide documentation to prove due diligence?
There was an article in a Belgium newspaper last December claiming that 15
to 30% of all imported timber in the port of Antwerp is illegal. Presuming this is
correct, how will the Belgium government suddenly be able to stop this once the
EUTR is operational? The country does not even have a government at present!
Our company, APP Timber, is providing documents with each shipment of timber (e.g. logs, timber and veneer) to Asia, providing as much as possible details on
the source (forest location and license) and place of production and if applicable,
provide details on any reputable certification. But will this be enough? Surely it is
not so difficult to provide incorrect information just for the sake of converting
illegal timber to legal timber? The EU is not going to send people to those countries to check on each forests legality. Instead they force supplying countries
to sign Voluntary Partnership Agreements (VPA) to implement the FLEGT licensing
scheme which is of course good but would it not have been logical to also allow
credible certification schemes like FSC and PEFC?
A good example is that we (APP Timber) are not buying any timber from the
Ivory Coast destined for the European market since we are unable to get all
information to provide proper due diligence. This does not mean that all timber
from the Ivory Coast is automatically illegally harvested but, due to long lasting
domestic wars, none of the Ivory Coast governments has been able to put in place
a proper forest management system. And they will not be able to do so for many
years since they are far behind in legality issues of forests, etc.
Indonesia is ahead of most other Asian nations and has implemented their
own verifications system called SVLK, and all our Indonesian customers have or
10
are in the process to rush to obtain the license since without this SVLK
they are unable to export. This is very good indeed, but can one be sure
there are no loopholes? I have been travelling 25 years in Indonesia and
could not fail to notice that currently the volume of merbau logs and
timber at many yards in Surabaya is the largest I have ever seen. I can
hardly imagine that all this timber is legally harvested. Some mills are
even exporting large sections of merbau timber which is not allowed but
they comply with the export regulations by producing a fake profile
on the timber so it becomes a moulding rather than sawn timber. So
much for the SVLK.
At the end, the EUTR will only become fully successful once their own
FLEGT timber licensing scheme is implemented by the timber supplying
nations (through the VPA). Only this will reduce the trade of illegal timber,
however, it is going to take many years till such countries will have the
FLEGT scheme implemented.
We need to learn to become more responsible and committed not
knowingly to trade in illegally harvested timber. I guess that will never happen as long as there is good money to be made in such illegal business.
In conclusion, one can say that the EUTR has increased the awareness and reduced the trade of illegal timber. The demand for certified
products is on the rise, but it has yet to be seen how the regulations will
be implemented in Europe. One might expect that many new loopholes
will appear after a few months of implementation, and therefore the
trade of illegally harvested timber will persist.
GLOBALTIMBERRESOURCES
About the
AUTHOR
Dutch-born Michael Hermens is
Managing Director of APP Timber,
a timber importing company that
he founded nearly 18 years ago on
the conviction that Southeast Asia
will grow increasingly short of
raw material as it develops.
The company is now the
leading regional distributor of imported timber,
employing people in
Malaysia, Indonesia,
Thailand, Vietnam,
India, USA and Europe. He permanently lives in Kuala
Lumpur with his
Singaporean wife
and two boys.
11
NEWS
NEWS
Industry at a Glance
Mill report: Emporium Hardwoods

Emporium Hardwoods, part of the Rossi Group, is
located in Northwestern Pennsylvania on the edge
of the Allegheny Plateau which is home to the very
best Black Cherry (Prunus serotina) in the Northeastern United States. The mill is also supplied locally with
an abundant resource of the finest Hard Maple,
Red Leaf Soft Maple, Red Oak and White Ash from
the sustainable hardwood forests of the USA. Pennsylvania has traditionally been
the largest hardwood lumber
producing state in the USA.
The Emporium mill is a fully
integrated saw mill with a kiln
capacity currently now reaching 12 million BFM per year.
A sustainable and selective
forestry policy is at the heart
of Emporiums commitment to
provide a legal and environmentally responsible, consistent,
fully controlled quality in one of
the most exclusive American
hardwood species - Cherry.
In production for well over 40
years, the mill has developed
a very loyal customer base in
the United States, where it is
regarded as a reference or socalled gold standard for Cherry lumber. Around
the world the mills production is distributed on all
continents, for it has long been a serious player in
export markets and is known and recognised as a
producer with an emphasis on high quality and yieldoriented production, in the form of selective grading
and colour sorting. Emporium has also participated
in FSC certification over the past ten years. The company is owned and operated by Ted Rossi, CEO of
Rossi Group and former Chairman of the American
Hardwood Export Council (AHEC). He was founder
and Past President of the Hardwood Federation in
Washington DC and was former President and is a
12
sitting Director of the National Hardwood Lumber

Association (NHLA). The mill is guided by all of these
association memberships.
Jay Ward, General Manager at Emporium, is
currently undertaking extensive renovations and
additions, mainly in new kilns made by S.I.I. and
storage facilities on the site, making it a reference
producer. The mill operates three 6 McDonough
band-mills with a capacity of
13 million BFM per year. New
kilns with 800,000 board feet of
load capacity have just been
installed that bring the annual
kiln capacity to over 12 million board feet and two new
Air-drying storage buildings will
enable a further 1.2 million feet
to be air-dried on sticks. Cherry
accounts for 30-35% of total
production, with Ash and Soft
Maple as the other two main
species. The mill cuts thicknesses
mainly in 4/4, 6/4 and 8/4 with a
limited production of 5/4.
Randy Flament and Jesse
LaSon form a far reaching team
on the US domestic market
selling to distributors and the
most demanding furniture, cabinet and flooring
manufacturers across the USA and all the way to the
West Coast. The Rossi management and marketing
team, based in Cromwell, Connecticut is in charge
of the promotion and sales of Emporiums export
production worldwide. Ted Rossi CEO, Matt Gauvrit
VP Sales and John Read Export Sales Manager form
an eclectic, multi-lingual team which branches out
to a vast and experienced network of agents and
distributors from Europe to China and Southeast
Asia; from the Middle East and North Africa to Australia; and from Russia to South America. More at
rossigroup.net.
NEWS
NEWS
NHLA Annual Convention set in Texas

The 2013 NHLA Annual Convention &
Exhibit Showcase is announced for 2-4
October 2013 at the Omni Hotel in Fort
Worth, Texas. Online Registration will
open early in 2013 which details of the
programme will be announced.
This years Convention hopes to
match that of last years 115th NHLA
Convention annual global gathering of the
hardwood community which was held in Chicago
in September and was a success among for
hardwood industry. While the phrase tough market
times was frequent a theme, most attendees
agreed that the worst may now be over and, with
improving exports, the future for the hardwood
industry is brighter.
Recent data from the US indicates that global
exports of hardwood in 2012 from USA were up 4%,
but total exports of hardwood to Southeast Asia
were up 25%.
At the opening session in Chicago,

outgoing NHLA President Dave Redmond
welcomed delegates from all over the
USA and Canada where there are 1,200
members of NHLA, as well as hardwood
traders from 12 countries reflecting the
growing emphasis that the association
is now placing on overseas markets and
membership. Reporting to the Opening Session,
Executive Director Mark Barford noted that last year
37 Chinese companies had joined NHLA.
The Exhibit Showcase & Traders Alley was open
on all three days for delegates to meet with traders
and companies offering a wide range of services
to the hardwood industry, and this is to happen
again at this years convention. Such an event
provides an opportunity for Asian buyers to meet
a huge number of US delegates under one roof in
three days.
13
NEWS
NEWS
APP Timber expansion in Indonesia

APP Timber has expanded its team in
Indonesia. The supplier of imported
l o g s , t i m b e r, v e n e e r a n d o t h e r
products for the Asian timber industry
has employed Mr. Leo Indrawan
as General Manager based at the
Jakarta office. Mr. Indrawan has over 15
years of experience in the woodworking
industry and will take charge of the
daily operations.
The Company is also in the process of employing

one more sales executive for West Java to be
based in Jakarta. APP Timbers will open its second
warehouse (and new office) near Jakarta to
facilitate sales in West Java and hope to complete
in April.
APP Timber is 100% committed in growing its
business not just in Indonesia but the whole of Asia,
and will continue to invest in good people to ensure
the best service to customers and suppliers.
Mr. Leo Indrawan
Dieffenbacher gathers two further panel plants:

particle board panel plant for Pfleiderer and a
big OSB plant in Asia
By modernising its particle board production site in Neumarkt (Germany) to include a
new panel plant, Pfleiderer Holzwerkstoffe GmbH is setting new standards in
environmental protection and technology.
Wood-based panels manufacturer Pfleiderer has
awarded the Dieffenbacher Group with the contract for supplying a new particle board line. The
panel plant is expected to arrive in Neumarkt in the
summer of 2013, where it will be installed as part of
ongoing modernisation and expansion measures
being carried out at the production site. The panel
plant is then set to be put into operation during the
first quarter of 2014. Nearly at the same time an undisclosed customer in Asia awarded Dieffenbacher
with a contract for an OSB plant.
We chose to award the contract to Dieffenbacher because it is the company that best meets
our environmental specifications with regard to future
energy savings and reductions in raw materials, says
Michael Wolff, Chairman of the Pfleiderer Holzwerkstoffe Management Board. According to Wolff, the
panel plant will be top of its class in Germany and
will set new benchmarks in the sector. By replacing
more conventional technologies with new, state-ofthe-art processes, we will be able to achieve significant reductions in CO2 emissions, while also making
considerable savings in energy and raw materials
during production, Wolff continues.
Wolff goes on to explain that another reason
behind Pfleiderers decision to award the contract to
Dieffenbacher was the fact that the particle board
line currently in operation at the production site in
14
Neumarkt is also manufactured by Dieffenbacher.

Using the same manufacturer will enable us to make
the most of the technical teams existing expertise to
achieve synergies between the two panel plants, he
says. Pfleiderer and Dieffenbacher have announced
that they work together over the coming years on the
technological optimisation of the panel plant. This
kind of collaboration has, according to Wolff, never
been seen before in the wood-based panels industry.
The scope of supply for the Dieffenbacher plant
ranges from glue dosing through to raw board handling, with a continuous press CPS 240 29.4 (2.4
m wide, 29.4 m long). The forming station is a new
development and is supplied as a 4-head spreading
system with a roller screen in the windformer designed
to improve spreading tolerances and expel lumps of
glue. The complete finishing line including a diagonal saw, three star coolers, a stacking system and a
connection to the existing storage system is supplied
by affiliated company Dieffenbacher Zaisenhausen.
The new panel plant has an average production
capacity of approximately 1,000 cubic metres of raw
particle board per day. At the second production
site in Neumarkt, Pfleiderer produces around 300,000
cubic metres of raw particle board per year. The old
multi-opening presses C and D, which have been
used since the 1970s, are to be taken out of operation
once production with the new press commences.
NEWS
NEWS
Baillie Lumber Co. Designing Hardwood

Lumber Solutions
Baillie Lumber Co. works with customers to co-create
custom hardwood lumber products that help their
business succeed. Designed specifically with the
customers manufacturing process in mind, these
custom lumber solutions offer more usable lumber
to maximise efficiency, guarantee lumber yields per
load and offer full clear face lumber, all resulting
from their five step Custom Lumber Solution process.
Baillies Custom Lumber Solutions Programme
centers on the principles of a five step review and
evaluation process, with no obligation to their customer. Designed to work jointly with their customers to
co-create unique lumber solutions that meet specific
production needs, their programme provides careful
consideration and analysis to the customers environment, capabilities, expectations and requirements.
For more information, please visit
www.baillie.com or email info@baillie.com.
15
NEWS
NEWS
Dubai WoodShow 2013

organises seminar on
building with wood
The coming April
will see the Dubai
WoodShow as the
foremost exhibition
in the Gulf that offers a chance for
the timber industry to meet wood and woodworking
professionals and develop ideas for increasing the
range and quality of business and learn about new
techniques and sources of supply. It is a prestigious
platform for creative ideas and new technologies,
as well as innovative resources that can initiate new
transactions. Dubai, the business hub of the Middle
East, is one place where the global wood industry
now meets annually.
The 8th edition of the Dubai International Wood
and Wood Machinery Show, which will be held on
April 9-11, 2013 at the Dubai International Convention
and Exhibition Centre, will be organising a seminar
centered on the various possibilities of building with
wood. The four main topics which will be covered
are: wood as a building material for interiors and
exteriors in the GCC, wood as a design component
of architectural projects, the current state of wood
use in the GCC and timber legality.
The seminar aims to explore and promote wood

solutions in the design and construction sectors of
the GCC. This is to underline the shows commitment
to involve more construction-related sectors, thus
involving the professionals who are directly involved
in projects where the use of wood, both as a building and decorative material, can be explored and
maximised.
Architects, engineers, developers and contractors will be invited to the seminar to discuss the use
of wood in the GCC and to look into UAE projects
which are already incorporating wood solutions in
their building activities.
The Dubai WoodShow 2012 played host to a
successful seminar on timber legality. This year, a
second edition of this seminar will be held as part
of the seminar on building with wood. The timber
legality seminar will talk about the need for certification for timber-producing companies exporting to
Europe. Benefits and challenges of certification will
be discussed. The seminar, intended for individuals
involved in the wood products trade, building relationships with suppliers, will help to ensure that the
wood products traded are from a known source,
minimising the risk of buying illegal timber.
CNC router features fine polishing results,

accuracy
The WF3209L CNC router from Wen Chih Machinery
Industrial Co., Ltd is designed to work with various
router bits. It features fine polishing results along
with accuracy and stiffness.
It is designed for easy replacement in

multiple axial machining, saving working time
and enhancing efficiency. With CNC routers
being one of the most important tools for the
woodworking process, rigorous quality control
and management standards have been applied
during the manufacturing stage to ensure the
overall sound performance of the product. For
more information: wen-chih@umail.hinet.net.
CNC-WF3209L
CNC Router Boring Head
16
NEWS
NEWS
American Lumber Company The answer to

increasing product yields
American Lumber Company, a world provider of
hardwoods, known for their dedication to innovation,
now utilises advanced technology for specie sorting
and full surface two face colour matching to create
premium quality custom grades that will provide the
highest maximum yield with minimal waste.
With a reputation for designing unique high-quality
lumber solutions, American Lumbers Custom Grades
exceed traditional industry grading parameters. Designed around specialised colour sorts, yield improvement and requirements specific to a manufacturers
business, American Lumbers Custom Grades are
available to suite their customers requirements on a
regular basis for shipment around the world.
For more information, please visit
www.alumber.com or email inquiry@alumber.com.
17
INPERSON
An interview with
Mr. Ernie Koh
Chairman of the International Furniture Fair

Singapore Pte Ltd (IFFS), Vice President of the
Singapore Furniture Industries Council (SFIC),
and Executive Director of KODA Ltd
Can you tell us about your new role as Chairman of IFFS? How do you plan to grow the show and strengthen the brand of IFFS?
A: The previous chairman of IFFS did such a great job that for me to take over is easy because everything has been put in place. Moving forward, there are many innovative ways that will enhance the show itself. Firstly, we have to meet the expectations of the exhibitors
and promote their businesses. Secondly, the number of visitors has been increasing over the years but we need to show what we can
do to catch up with the market. The US and Europe markets are not doing well. How can we re-direct our emphasis to different markets?
Thirdly, we need the media. We have to keep the people informed. Constant communication with the media is what we have been
doing. Of course, we also have plans of implementing innovativeness to the show. Design element is very crucial. We feel that in the
next 4-5 years, we at IFFS must keep ourselves abreast with the innovativeness of regional shows. Thats where the SingaPlural come into
place. We have the Singapore Furniture Design Week where a multi-disciplinary group of people landscape, architecture, fashion,
etc. come together to showcase their work in different places in Singapore. We are not only bringing design into the show, we are
also bringing design out of the show and into the city. We are trying to position ourselves as the Milan of Asia. A lot of people are saying let us try it because it is very international. Today, the platform of IFFS is still very much inclined to Asian manufacturers specifically
those developed nations. Developed nations bias means not necessarily from West, but Korea, Taiwan and Japan. This is the current
strategy. Moving forward, I think the tides are changing a lot faster and we have to think of our positioning. It is a very exciting time to be
the Chairman of IFFS to have this and to see if we can re-position it and to become something that is very relevant.
What can we expect from the 30th ASEAN Furniture Show next year? Can you share some of the highlights?
A: IFFS has been supported by the ASEAN countries. We really appreciate their continuous support to this show. Being the 30th ASEAN
show, the ASEAN Furniture Industries Council (AFIC) discussed about what we should be doing. We are considering to set up an ASEAN
Pavilion, which we never before had. Usually we have pavilion for Indonesia, Malaysia, etc., but for the 30th anniversary we are considering to have the ASEAN Pavilion. Throughout the show, we will also have events and activities where we will put the ASEAN elements.
With the European crisis, do you expect a reduced number of visitors and exhibitors from Europe?
A: The crisis in Europe has of course affected companies and business all over the world. Savvier companies who are coming to the show
have embraced this and redirect their focus to other markets. Our next concern is whats going to happen in China, because China is
the next two years. The European crisis has been going on for two years and we are managing it. We are finding ways or already found
ways to redirect markets and reposition ourselves. For China, in the next two years, is a big question mark. Businesses are not doing well
at all. Those that are in the domestic market that are selling into the domestic market are feeling the business slowing down. As a result,
some of them are trying to export. On the other hand, those who are export-oriented are feeling the pinch of the business in Europe and
US, so they are trying to go domestic. At the moment, its a bit messy and theres confusion. As a businessman, you have to be careful
in China because what is coming is uncertain.
Now Im putting my hat as the head of KODA you have to look macro and act micro. Looking at the whole macro environment,
how are you going to react in the micro level as a business moving forward? China is a big market. China, in the next 15 years, will be
industrialised nicely. It will become an important market for the people around the world, so we cannot ignore the market. In the next
two years, the market may have some ups and down, but the bump will go away. And theres only way where the market will go and
that is going up. Going back to Europe, I think the European crisis will have, as I call it, housekeeping measures. The economy will drop
and it will settle down; and when it settles down, it will take a few years to slowly climb back. Only the crystal ball can tell whether Europe
will still be a major market for the world, or will Asia and China be the next frontier. Some are saying that Asia is the next frontier. Furniture
businesses are coming to Asia from Europe and US. Retailers are trying to set up shops here. On the one hand, the Asians are trying to
sell to US and Europe which I believe this strategy has to be re-considered. I read somewhere that in the future, when the dust settles,
the supply chain will be more regional. The cost of shipping big quantities across continents will become too expensive that regional
players will become more attractive. The East Europeans will be supplying to the Europeans. Perhaps the South American countries will
supply to the North American countries. In Asia, we have Malaysia, Vietnam and Myanmar to produce for the Asian market. The source
of supply may become regional, but the players in the market may be international. KODA may end up setting up a factory or buying
a brand in Europe and have a presence in Europe, but maybe supplying from East Europe. This is happening in other industries, and the
furniture industry is moving towards that.
Because of the European crisis, are you attracting more exhibitors from other countries?
A: Yes, we are putting emphasis onto attracting more Asian buyers from China, Japan, Korea and Taiwan. Our visitor promotion pro-
18
INPERSON
gramme will be emphasised more because Europe itself is very difficult to squeeze more from it because of the current situation. In our visitor
promotion programme, we will continue to invite European visitors but place more emphasis on getting more Asian visitors into our show.
With the EUTR coming into force this March, do you think there will there be less interest from European buyers to come here?
A: I think not. EUTR is like you wanting lunch and going to a food court. The lunch doesnt go to you. You have to go to a food court and
eat lunch. Twenty years ago, there is only the green peace. But now we have the chemical emission coming in, etc. Once the companies
embrace it, life goes on. Now we are looking at the EUTR. As companies, we just have to embrace it. Asian manufacturers are not rigid,
they are evolving all the time. We have to meet the EUTR standards especially if you want to continue to do business in Europe. Pretty
soon, different regions are going to have environmental regulations and you are going to have to do something about it or you will be
out of business. Companies who align their businesses will succeed.
How does your new appointment affect or complement your role as VP of SFIC?
A: I dont see the new appointment as a big appointment because I was already one of the Board Members before. So coming in as
Chairman of IFFS is a continuing process. The thing is you have to put your mind on the long term. The councils objective is very simple:
enhance the furniture industry in Singapore and members assistance. I am also the Chairman of the Green Committee for SFIC. It has got
three initiatives. Number one is to assist our members in export to markets that require regulatory requirements. Number two is also to assist
our members in implementing green initiatives into their companies. The third initiative is to educate the public in Singapore about green.
Is it true that green products are more expensive?
A: At the moment, I should say yes. But if my company is able to embrace green in our culture, I believe it wont be expensive anymore. You would realise that you would be using less materials and packaging, and you would come out with a pretty decent product
that is as pretty and maybe even cheaper. My philosophy is in order for you to work something out, sometimes it is very painful, and you
have to break everything down. The glass is neither half empty nor half full. The glass is totally empty. You start filling things at the R&D.
What should furniture manufacturers focus on to be able to survive in this competitive industry?
A: Design, innovation, and always think about their market that about sums it up.
19
SPECIALREPORT
Sustainable forestry in Europe
The EU
Timber
Regulation
putting
it into
practice
By Jade Saunders
Associate Fellow at
Chatham House and
Associate in the
Energy Environment
& Development
Programme. Worked
on FLEGT since
action plan was
published in 2003.
20
In March 2013 new legislation comes into effect across all 27 European Union
countries which changes the way companies trading in timber and wood
products do business, set out in the European Unions Timber Regulation (EUTR).
It prohibits the first placement of any illegal wood product on the EU market.
This applies to all timber, whether harvested in the EU or imported. It requires
companies selling or distributing timber on the market for the first time - defined
as Operators in the regulation to be able to demonstrate that they have
identified and taken steps to
remove any illegal products
from their supply chains
known as exercising
due diligence. It also
requires other traders in the
EU supply chain to keep
records of their suppliers
and customers to allow
for traceability of products
back to their first placement
on the EU market. To make
life simple, the legislation
allows companies to use
due diligence systems
designed and audited by
service providers known as
Sustainable forestry in USA
monitoring organisations,
who are authorised by the
European Commission. They can also, of course, develop their own in-house
procedures.
For those who have made the move to voluntary responsible purchasing
already, the new rules are a welcome effort

to level the playing field. In the last decade
companies buying certified products have
consistently risked being undercut by cheap
wood, no questions asked. None of us like
more red tape but this new legislation will
make it possible to buy responsibly without
going out of business in the long run. It means
a sustainable future for our industry as well as
for forests, said John May, Director at James
Latham PLC in the UK.
In Indonesia, one of the largest plantation
teak suppliers in the world also indicated
that they are confident that the EU Timber
Regulation will be good for honest traders.
Having worked with their European buyers
to prepare for the EU Timber Regulation and
having an SVLK export license in place, the
company said they are ready for the EU Timber
Regulation.
After a long campaign, environmental
groups in Europe have also welcomed the
new measures while maintaining the pressure
for consistent implementation across Europe.
The EU Timber Regulation is an important step
by the EU to respond to the problem of the illegal harvesting of timber. For the
potential of this law to be translated into real impact, it must be implemented and
enforced effectively and consistently by all EU Member States, which includes a
need to establish, and then use, appropriate penalty regimes. There is still much
to be done, but ClientEarth is cautiously optimistic that the necessary steps will
be taken to make this law a credible mechanism to excluding illegally harvested
timber from the EU market in practice, said Emily Unwin, environmental lawyer
with ClientEarth, an NGO working on the issue.
The implementing regulation
In July 2012, details of the EU Timber Regulation requirements were explained

further in an implementing regulation. It sets out in detail what constitutes a due
diligence system, how companies are required to maintain their records and
the role and responsibilities of monitoring organisations and the government
agencies that are responsible for policing them.
What is first placement on the EU market?
If a company sells or distributes timber or wood products that are physically

present in the EU, either because they were harvested in the EU or because they
have been imported into the EU, then the legislation applies.
The European Commission has prepared detailed guidance on first
placement and other important terms which is available on their website. 1
You can also check if you are required to comply with these requirements by
contacting your national competent authority2 or trade association.
What is a due diligence system?
A due diligence system is a series of procedures that helps operators collect

the necessary information about the products they purchase to assess the risk
of sourcing illegal timber, and to actively minimise the risk of trading in illegal
products. Suppliers will be asked to provide credible demonstration of legal
sourcing and chain of custody in order for their customers to comply with the
new requirements.
SPECIALREPORT
Legal logging in USA

photo credit NELA
About the FLEGT Action Plan

The EU Timber Regulation is the most
recent initiative introduced as part
of the European Unions Action Plan
for FLEGT (Forest Law Enforcement,
Governance and Trade). The FLEGT
Action Plan, introduced in 2003,
encourages legal and sustainable
management of forests. This
legislation is part of an increasingly
powerful global trend of restricting
trading in illegal timber.
The FLEGT Action Plan also
includes the negotiation of
Voluntary Partnership Agreements.
Countries with such agreements
are developing verification and
licensing systems to export timber
and timber products to Europe. The
EU Timber Regulation and these
individual agreements are mutually
reinforcing, ensuring market access
for companies in timber producing
countries where the Government
has taken steps to make sure that the
forest sector operates legally.
21
SPECIALREPORT
Certified Teak lumber in Indonesia
What product information is necessary to demonstrate due diligence?
The EU Timber Regulation requires all operators to maintain measures and

procedures so that they can make information available on each consignment
that is placed on the market.
The risk assessment and possibly risk mitigation must be applied for all
shipments received during a 12-month period. Where any product-specific
information changes during that 12-month period, a new risk assessment and
possibly mitigation is required. Product-specific information can include species,
country, sub-region, region and concession of harvest.
Companies need to keep all records relating to their products and suppliers,
and the application of their due diligence procedures for five years. Records must
be available for review at any time by authorities designated in each EU country.
Information provided or collected about each consignment must include
the following details.
Full description of the products and tree species used in its manufacture,
including the trade name and common name of the species, as well as its
full scientific name, where ambiguity in the use of the common name exists
Country of harvest of all wood included, as well as the sub-national region
and concession in cases where the risk of illegal harvesting between
sub-national regions or concessions varies
Quantity of supply, in volume, weight or number of units
Name and address of supplier
Name and address of trader to whom the products have been
supplied
Documentation or other information indicating compliance with
applicable national laws
Malaysian
sawn lumber
endorsed by
PEFC
22
Tropical logs marked for

tracking in Indonesia
SPECIALREPORT
What procedural
information is required to
demonstrate due diligence?
Documentation of the
application of due diligence
procedures should include:
How the information was
gathered
How the risk criteria were
assessed
How the operator
determined the degree of risk
Legal or not? No identification!
How a decision on risk
mitigation was taken
There are certification and third-party verified schemes which aim to
demonstrate the legality and sustainability of the wood and timber they cover.
Buyers and sellers can include this certification or verification as assurance to
minimise the risk of trading in illegal products, as long as the schemes meet
technical requirements. Compliance with the EU Timber Regulation does not,
however, require that wood or products be certified or verified in this way.
Any such schemes in general terms must do three things:
Publish their requirements which include compliance with all relevant
legislation
Undertake appropriate third-party checks on legality compliance once a year
Have a robust chain of custody system that covers the whole supply chain
for each product and excludes wood of unknown origin
FLEGT-licensed wood, exported from any country that has a Voluntary
Partnership Agreement with an operational FLEGT licensing scheme, is risk-free
and companies purchasing it are considered to be in compliance with the EU
Timber Regulation as the necessary due diligence has been carried out in the
country of origin.
What are monitoring organisations and how are they regulated?
A monitoring organisation is a service provider in Europe that has been accredited

to offer an appropriate due diligence system to companies complying with the
Timber Regulation. Competent authorities oversee the monitoring organisations
registered in their country.
The easiest way to find an accredited monitoring organisation is to contact
your national competent authority or trade association.
Due diligence and a level playing field
Even before the EU Timber Regulation was enacted, responsible timber traders in
Europe had moved toward more accountable timber purchasing policies. Many
had participated in national voluntary schemes that required them to obtain
information about sourcing from their suppliers and to avoid purchasing high-risk
products. During this process, companies invested additional time and effort in
building long-term trading partnerships with their most consistent suppliers, which
has benefitted both parties as well as the forests.
As of March 2013, all operators in Europe will be competing on a level playing
field, where any company that places timber on the EU market must exercise
the same due diligence. Those companies that have already committed to
verifying the timber they trade is legal or sustainably harvested are no longer
taking on more costs than other operators.
A full list of all designated European authorities, including contact details, is
available on the European Commission website.
Some definitions
Chain of custody is a trail of
documentary evidence that tracks
wood products from the forest
to the consumer. It includes all
stages of harvesting, processing,
transformation, manufacturing,
trading and distribution.
A competent authority is the
Government agency chosen by
each EU member country to take
responsibility for enforcing the EU
Timber Regulation.
Due diligence is what companies
do to understand, monitor and
mitigate any risk that is involved in
doing business with an individual or
commercial entity. It is undertaken
prior to establishing a relationship
and reviewed periodically.
The EU T imber Regulation is
European legislation that prohibits
the sale of illegal wood products
and requires companies to establish
systems to identify and remove
products that may be illegal from
their supply chains.
A monitoring organisation
is accredited by the European
Commission to establish, maintain
and regularly evaluate a due
diligence system, and grant
operators the right to use it. The
use of a monitoring organisation is
optional and operators can choose
to implement their own systems to
identify and mitigate the risk of illegal
timber entering their supply chains.
An operator under the EU Timber
Regulation is any individual or legal
entity that places timber on the
European market for the first time.
A trader under the EU Timber
Regulation is any individual or legal
entity that sells or buys timber on the
European internal market.
23
ENVIRONMENTALFOCUS
PEFC Certified Plywood

from Malaysia.
photo credit MTCC
PEFC making
a difference in
ASIA
The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) has recently
announced a further step in its development in Asia, this time in the tropics in
Indonesia following earlier expansion in Malaysia and China. The Indonesian
Forestry Certification Cooperation (IFCC) decision to join the worlds largest
forest certification system was founded in PEFCs unique bottom-up approach,
which respects the uniqueness of sovereignty, ecosystem diversity, and the
culture of every country, says Dr. Dradjad Wibowo, the Chairman of IFCC. So
Michael Buckley, forest industries consultant based in Singapore, took a look at
the recent experience of some companies already certified in Southeast Asia.
Victory for certification

The Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS) has been endorsed for
some time by PEFC so it seemed logical to start in Malaysia to find out what
effect certification had on local export businesses. Ricky Yap, Managing
24
ENVIRONMENTALFOCUS
Director of Victory Enterprise Sdn Bhd, who can

claim 40 years in timber trading, is in no doubt
as to the importance of certification to his
business. We cannot get the material we need
in Malaysia certified to FSC and we need to have
a certification that is recognised in the European
Union, he says. We are very supportive of PEFC
and 80% of our stock is now PEFC certified and we
expect to be 100% soon, he concludes.
Victory, headquartered in Klang since 1983, has
been manufacturing and exporting wood products
for almost thirty years originally concentrating on
the Australian market, but now diversifying more
into graded sawn timber and shipping about
80% to the EU and 20% to the USA. Our main
markets are environmentally conscious, says
Yap, who explains that all their material comes
from Peninsular Malaysia. Not the largest operator,
Victory is considered medium sized and is currently
growing. The company also provides custom
machining services for some imported American
hardwoods which it regards as sustainable even if
not certified. Victorys drive towards certification
goes back 20 years, when its Board saw developments in the EU and now in the
USA. In 2000 the company recognised the environmental demands of buyers
such as Walmart which were moving rapidly towards sourcing only certified
wood products. In 2002 the company obtained an FSC CoC for 15 years to
2017. But in 2009 Yap decided that it could then comply with MTCS, endorsed
by PEFC and was certified accordingly. Now we are able to tell our customers
with confidence that whatever you buy from us you can be assured of legality
as well as quality assurance, says Yap. If we had ignored certification and
legislation, I believe we would have no place to sell our products, he adds.
He goes further by suggesting that certification is inevitable in today's markets
and believes that if companies in Malaysia are serious and want to continue to
export, timber certification will be the norm.
Certification is a must
Also certified by FSC and MTCC in Malaysia for 10 years is Dutch-owned Lionex, a
company trading in a wide range of rough sawn, value-added and customised
timber products for the last forty years. Sales span many markets from Europe to
North & South America, Asia, the Middle East and Australia, all requiring some
degree of environmental assurance. We are committed to the responsible
purchasing of timber with FSC, MTCC and PEFC certification. We promote
Sustainable Forest Management that integrates the growing, nurturing and
harvesting of trees for useful products while conserving the soil, air and water
quality, says Managing Director Marco Poot. In 2008, the company traded
29% of its timber with a Verified Legal Compliance (VLC) certificate and 2%
with a sustainable certificate. We set ourselves the goal of trading 100% VLC
timber and 50% sustainable timber by the end of 2011, going 100% by the end
of 2013, says Poot. The company uses many ways to differentiate it products
and services from its competitors, of which certification was one and an online
order tracking system is another. But now, certification is a must to do business
is Marco Poots bottom line.
25
ENVIRONMENTALFOCUS
Choices for certification

Cho
It is clear from discussions with many

companies
committed to certification that
com
choice
of certification is another important
cho
issue.
issu Too little forest production in Asia is
yet
ye certified but increasingly buyers are
demanding
PEFC as well as FSC certificates.
de
Several certified companies use the same
Se
auditor to obtain multiple certificates to
au
keep
down the cost of certification, a
ke
key
ke inhibitor to some reluctant producers,
especially
smaller ones. Ekowood Malaysia
e
Sdn
Bhd, a major wood flooring producer
S
manufacturing
near Ipoh in Peninsular
m
Malaysia,
has recently published its new
M
brochure which states We are dedicated
to producing the highest quality products
and to the sustainable management
of our forests. Ekowood is proud to be
involved in the protection of the earths
PEFC Certified
environment as it is our belief and
Roundlogs
obligation to keep the earth natural and
clean as a legacy for the future. Ekowood, through
our parent company, TSH Resources Ber
Berhad, is actively involved in sustainable
forestry. The company, which uses local and imported material, now offers products certified by FSC and PEFC.
EUTR has a positive eect...
APP Timber Sdn Bhd, also based in Malaysia and trading timber products in Asia and beyond, has a similar attitude to
the choice needed for certification. "The EUTR has a positive effect on the demand for certified timber as Asian buyers
prefer the imported timber to be either FSC or PEFC certified. FSC used to be the preferred certification schemes but
in the last few years we have seen a positive attitude towards other reputable schemes such as PEFC probably due to
the more aggressive promotion from their side," says Managing Director Michael Hermens.
Dato Low Kian Chuan is Managing Director of export-driven Low Fatt Wood Industries Sdn. Bhd. with operations
located on the East Coast of Peninsula Malaysia. He is also President of the Malaysian Wood Industries Association which
now represents members with diversified business interests covering the whole range of upstream and downstream
activities in the timber industry with affiliated State Associations. In 2004, Low Fatt was certified by MTCC, which was
endorsed by PEFC in 2009. Low Fatt exports products such as Lamscan, decking, mouldings and rough sawn to the
EU with about 80% certified. Its outdoor furniture is 100% PEFC certified and, says Dato Low certification was initially
a marketing tool giving assurance to buyers and clearing up doubts about legality. But now it is very important to
show significant care and it is tough to do business without it. He also says that some other markets do not yet need
certification but believes that will change. Even our bankers HSBC are very serious on the matter and with certification
we satisfy their CSR policy. However he laments that too many sawmills, from which Low Fatt would like to source, are
not yet certified which he is working to change.
IFCC embraces PEFC
With the strong business case for certification emerging in Malaysia and throughout the region, were excited to
welcome IFCC into PEFC Council and look forward to working with Indonesia to achieve international recognition of
their certification scheme, says PEFCs Secretary General in Geneva, Ben Gunneberg.
Indonesia is home of some of the most biologically diverse forests in the world. We are excited to see the development
of a national forest certification standard by Indonesians for Indonesians, he added. "The promise of Indonesias
forests being managed sustainably, in a manner that provides people with jobs that comply with the fundamental ILO
conventions, safeguards forest biodiversity, and protects them from conversions, should be viewed by all who care about
saving the worlds forests as an important step in the right direction." Certification will hopefully enhance international
market perceptions of Indonesias forest sustainability, as it is clearly doing in Malaysia, to facilitate responsible trade
in sustainable and legal wood products.
26
ENVIRONMENTALFOCUS
Wood in green
building
The sustainable development of forests and their long term

management and harvesting are the concern of all wood-using
industries, wherever they are located. Solid wood and panel
industries need a consistent supply of raw material for their
domestic and export markets. In many global markets, not least
in the Gulf, there is increasing concern about, and legislation to
ensure, legality and sustainability of supplies and responsibility in the
use of wood. Forest industries consultant Michael Buckley reports:
Tom Ter Horst

of EFI in Dubai
Early in 2012 at the Dubai WoodShow, delegates from producing countries

around the world gathered for a seminar to consider the issue of Assuring
verified legal timber products to meet new requirements in the global market
and the impact on the Middle East and GCC market. A panel of expert
speakers presented details of existing and new regulations for the trade in
timber and wood products. Tom Ter Horst of EFI explained the principles of the
new European Timber Regulations (EUTR) that will affect almost all imported
wood aimed at stopping trade in illegal material at EU borders. Caitlin Clarke
of World Research Institute in USA explained the Lacey Act, which focuses on
illegal wood products at any part of the supply chain entering the USA market.
Maidiward, from the Indonesian Ministry of Forestry, explained the Timber Legality
Assurance System (SVLK) now being implemented in Indonesia requiring all wood
Prof Scott Bowe
product exporters to be licensed under a Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA)
from University of
with the EU. Professor Scott Bowe from the University of Wisconsin gave a comprehensive
Wisconsin explained LCA
view of the sustainability of the American hardwood resource and discussed the imporat the Dubai seminar
tance of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) work now being undertaken by the American
hardwood industry.
Finally, Mr. Robianto Koestomo from the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce KADIN discussed the challenges facing the trade in verified legal timber from an Indonesian business perspective. Earlier this year a High Level Dialogue
between the governments of Indonesia, USA, Australia and the European Union, and observed by China, was held in
Jakarta at which these were central issues. In Singapore last October, a full house Green Forum discussed forest issues
in relation to climate change, global trade and greener manufacturing. At the recent Big5 building show in Dubai, a
Green Build conference and LEED seminar were held. On the programme was a presentation entitled What do speci28
fiers need to do to ensure that they are specifying the

most sustainable materials? by Ana Elisa Seixas, LEED
AP, Director of Marketing Middle East, Africa & India,
Interface. It covered how to identify Greenwashing
and misleading sustainability claims, "Reading" through
the different labels and certifications in the market,
and how to compare products and their sustainable
attributes using Environmental Product Declarations
(EPDs). This is just a tiny snapshot of the huge attention
now being paid to green issues relevant to wood.
In the past, issues such as sustainability in forest
management, certification, legality of harvesting and
trading wood products and achieving green construction have frequently been treated individually, when of
course they are completely interrelated. But there are
so many organisations, institutions, associations and
groupings immersed in sustainable forest issues that it is
hard for anyone to keep track! What is also confusing,
however, is the attitude to wood by many of the green
building councils that are emerging across the globe.
Criticism by the wood community of the Leadership in
Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) system in USA
is constantly made for its low recognition of our most
sustainable and low embodied energy material that
stores carbon wood. We are demanding a level
playing field when awarding green points compared
to glass, concrete and steel in buildings, say so many
of the worlds timber producers, apparently to deaf
ears. To this needs to be added the call use it or lose
it say others concerned that any reduction in the use
of wood will result in the conversion of forests to other
commercial uses.
Then there is the ongoing confusion between the
various forest certification schemes and the recognised
need to improve forest management in some countries.
PEFC is an international non-profit, non-governmental
organisation dedicated to promoting Sustainable Forest Management through independent third-party
certification. As an umbrella organisation, PEFC works
by endorsing national forest certification systems developed collaboratively by all interested stakeholders and
tailored to local priorities and conditions. Companies
in the supply chain after the forest can achieve the
PEFC Chain of Custody certificate in order to demonstrate that their product(s) originate from Sustainable
Managed Forests. The earlier starter Forest Stewardship
Council (FSC) however is deemed by many specifiers,
manufacturers, government procurement agencies,
consumers and even green building councils to be
the only game in town. In fact FSC is not the largest,
which is PEFC, nor is FSC the independent not for profit
organisation that is its image; for FSC apparently operates as a limited company. Nor are either of these two
the oldest, when it comes to considering the American
Tree Farm scheme, established 70 years ago, now with
27 million acres and one of the many national schemes
endorsed by PEFC. Another scheme is in Malaysia where
the Malaysian Timber certification Council (MTCC) has
been PEFC endorsed and is a major supplier of timber
to the Gulf region.
ENVIRONMENTALFOCUS
The Emirates Green Building Council
encourages the use of any recognised
green building rating tool as a guide
to creating a more sustainable build
environment. There are several systems
in the global market place as well as
several systems commonly used in the
United Arab Emirates (UAE) market,
including Estidama Pearl Rating the US
Green Building Council's LEED and the
British Research Establishment - BREEAM
British Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method. In the
opinion of many industrialists and environmentalists none of these schemes
Harnarinder Singh
give sufficient credit to the use of timber
of MTCC endorsed
in buildings, although some attitudes
by PEFC
may just be changing a little as the call
for Environmental Product Declarations, based on science, are starting to be heard.
Returning to the forest itself, it is widely quoted that
less than 2% of the certified forest in the world is tropical
rainforest where the problem of deforestation has been
greatest. To this is closely linked the issue of illegal logging, harvesting and trading to which governments in
USA, Europe, Japan and Australia, have paid attention
and legislated recently. The link between legal harvesting and verification all comes down, in the end, to
responsible trading. Illegal logging undermines market
values and puts at a disadvantage those who play by
the rules and trade only in legal wood. The process of
Due Diligence as a trading procedure is therefore of
increasing importance in providing practical solutions to
prove and record responsible trade that meets legislation such as the new EUTR and Lacey in USA.
So here is some good news for wood product exporters. The PEFC confirmed at its General Assembly
in November 2012 that PEFC Chain of Custody (CoC)
certification will satisfy information needs of legislative
and regulatory processes such as the EUTR, Lacey and
the Australian Illegal Logging Prohibition Bill now in process. The PEFC Board of Directors requested the working group in December 2011 to revise the PEFC CoC
standard to ensure that all certified companies meet
the EUTR requirements. Discussions among stakeholder
representatives in the working group focussed on options for the implementation of information requirements
on a mandatory basis without posing an undue burden
on certificate holders not affected by such legislation.
Appropriate requirements will now be built into PEFCs
Due Diligence System (DDS), which is an integral part of
the CoC standards and therefore a mandatory element
in CoC certification. At the same point in time, the PEFC
DDS is available as a stand-alone mechanism, offering
companies that are not prepared or eligible to obtain
full PEFC CoC certification with a tool to demonstrate
compliance with EUTR. The revised PEFC Chain of custody standard with the modified DDS is scheduled to be
approved by PEFC in February, prior to the implementation of the EUTR in March 2013.
701.02 Certified/Accredited Timber

Under the Emirates Green Building Council in all new buildings, at least twenty five percent (25%) by volume of the timber and timberbased products used during construction and permanently installed in the building must be from certified/accredited sources approved
by the Dubai Municipality. http://www.emiratesgbc.org/images/egbc-doc/(2011)DM_Green_Building_Regulation.pdf
29
TECHNICALREPORT
Preventing end
checking in hardwood
logs and lumber
By Norman E. Murray
Controlling quality in hardwood logs and lumber creates value and gives benefits to everyone, so it is important to eliminate degrade whenever possible. End
checking (drying splits) is one of the most common
drying defects and one of the easiest to prevent. Properly end coating green logs and lumber is an effective
and economical method of preventing end checking.
End checks are caused by over rapid drying on
the ends of wood. This fast drying causes shrinkage
and stresses develop that are eventually released by
the ends splitting and cracking apart. The extent of
the damage is not always apparent. As end checks
open and close during drying, the defects are hard
to see at times. End checks that appear as hairline
cracks on air-dried material can extend 12 inches or
more from the end. Their presence and severity could
go unnoticed until the after lumber is kiln-dried or cut,
reducing the yield and value of the lumber. An effective, water-resistant end coating will seal the ends of
green (un-dried) boards or logs so they may dry more
evenly from end to end, reducing or eliminating losses
from end checking.
The USDA (US Dept. of Agriculture-Forest Service)
handbook Drying Hardwood Lumber (FPL-GTR-118)
notes:
[re: logs]
Veneer log buyers and veneer manufacturers have
used wax end-coatings on logs to prevent the ends
from drying. End coating of high grade saw logs
may be an economically sound practice because
of the high cost of logs and the need to reduce
waste. End coating prevents logs from splitting and
retards fungal stain. The wax coating should be ap
plied to the log immediately after cutting to be most
effective. The longer the logs stored, the greater
the benefit of coating.
[re: lumber]
From the standpoint of both economics and qual
ity, hardwood lumber of all thicknesses would benefit
30
from end coating. When the ends of 5/4 red oak

were coated with a wax emulsion coating (product
used in studies: ANCHORSEAL green wood end
sealer for logs and lumber), the end checks were
2-1/8 in. (5.4 cm) shorter than those of uncoated
ends (LinaresHernandez and Wengert 1997).
End coating should be applied as soon as possible
to freshly cut end surfaces.
In addition to end coating the freshly cut ends of logs
and lumber, optimal lumber handling will help to further
control end checking:
box pile green lumber, even ended, with stickers
at or near the ends
in the kiln, keep piles end to end, as tight as possible and stagger the ends of adjacent rows to minimise
high air flow past the ends.
Controlling existing splits in logs
Sometimes there are pre-existing splits in the ends of

logs, caused by end drying, stresses, or logging damage. LogSavers and FlitchSavers are used to stitch
existing splits in valuable logs, to prevent the cracks from
growing larger. Unlike traditional S-irons, they are made
from special recycled plastic saws or veneer knives
cut right through them without damage, so they can
remain in the logs. Invented by a professional logger,
they are safer to use. Each plastic saver is held by a
special hammer, so there are no hands in the striking
area when it is hammered into the log. Also, LogSavers
and FlitchSavers will not create black iron stains in log
ends. By stitching the log, then applying end sealer,
degrade is reduced so the quality and value of veneer
and saw logs are maintained.
Behind the byline
Norman E. Murray is CEO of U-C Coatings Corporation; a global
wood protection products company located in Buffalo, NY USA.
He has over 35 years of wood industry expertise. For more
information: www.uccoatings.com or exportdesk@uccoatings.com.
SOLIDWOOD
By Michael Buckley
In the forests of the world it is rare to find a new species, except in very small quantities in obscure tropical forests.
Most commercial hardwoods are well known and their sources well documented and in some cases they seem
to be permanent favourites such as Oak and Teak. But in the marketplace some species come and go according
to fashion cycles and changing styles, while others become less available when resources are limited. So what is
the position with American Black Cherry in 2013?
The American Cherry resource
There is no shortage of American Cherry (Prunus serotina) growing in the eastern United States. The total standing
inventory of all US hardwood species was measured by the US Forest Service at over 11,000 million cubic metres in
2007, of which approximately 2% is estimated to be Cherry. So a rough estimate that the available standing Cherry
is about 220 million cubic metres is reasonable. But right now the worlds designers and manufacturers are using
very little of it and prices are at a historic low. About 40% of all US hardwood grade quality lumber production is
exported, excluding low quality ungraded lumber. Total American hardwood sawn lumber exports worldwide in
2011 were 2.8 million cubic metres of which less than 50,000 cubic metres were Cherry.
So why isnt Cherry more popular? The last time there was a Cherry fashion it seemed that everyone wanted
Cherry flooring, furniture and joinery and demand rose dramatically, perhaps beyond the capacity of sawmills
32
SOLIDWOOD
American Cherry
joinery in Spain
33
SOLIDWOOD
to deliver at the time. The tap is not

easily turned on for dry sawn lumber
immediately ready to ship in the grades
required; and when that happens prices
rise, in that case much higher than they
are today. So if Cherry is now so competitive for a high quality hardwood, then
why is more not being specified? In fact it
seems that signs are emerging that markets may just be waking up to fact that
here is a species that is readily available
and competitive, with superb technical
performance and good environmental
credentials. And most important of all it is
one of the most attractive woods in the
temperate forests of the USA.
Sangkar Credenza made in Cherry - overall winner of IFDC 2013 in Indonesia
Cherry pricing
Like most American hardwoods, the price

of Cherry depends on where it comes from and there are usually
regional variations, so price indications must always be regarded
as general. Pricing of Cherry is quite complex, depending these
days on the percentage of the lighter coloured sapwood that is
agreed as acceptable between suppliers and their buyers. Most
buyers prefer the darker heartwood, and although sapwood is not
a defect under NHLA Grading rules, in times of reduced demand,
buyers can and do dictate how much they will accept. As can
be seen from the graph, the domestic price of Cherry ex factory
has almost halved from 2007 to 2012. But what is also interesting is
the closing gap between the top FAS grade price premium
and the #1Common furniture grade price, which are ex mill as
shown on the graph. That is explained partly by the reduction
in demand for the highest quality material for multi-million dollar
houses in the USA following the financial crisis in 2008 which hit
home-builders for wealthy US clients. It is also explained by the
loss of top quality markets in Europe, such as France and Italy,
American Cherry 'Wind Shelf' designed by Jerry Low

and made in Malaysia
American Black Cherry colour and grain detail
34
SOLIDWOOD
over the last five years. This may

be about to change.
So where is the Cherry

market going?
A report at the end of last year

by Bill Esler from the all-important
domestic High Point furniture
market show, the largest exhibition of its type in the world, was
headed Cherry Wood Tops
in Busy High Point. It pointed
out that buyers saw plenty of
American Cherry and that the
wood was the top species used
in four categories of furniture
surveyed. The Indonesian Furniture Design Competition held
in May 2012 featured several
species, but it was Cherry that
took the Overall Best Award. At
the International Furniture Fair
Indonesia in March, a leading
furniture manufacturer Kobeks exhibited some contemporary
furniture using American Cherry veneer.
American Cherry Domestic Price Graph (FOB mill) published

by Hardwood Market Report
China
Today there are strong reports that China has taken great
interest in American Cherry and some importers are stocking
up mainly in high quality FAS grade. That may also provide opportunities for furniture and flooring manufacturers in Southeast
Asia who are now looking to sell their products into China, although some leading producers say they do not yet offer Cherry
collections. That was confirmed by the total absence of Cherry
furniture at shows such as IFFS in Singapore in March. Nevertheless many wealthy Chinese are embracing western styles for
their residences and Cherry is considered a luxury wood which
they like. And whereas some westerners doubt the suitability of
Cherry for flooring as not hard enough, in Asia where shoes are
not worn inside, Cherry is as suitable as any other wood. In any
case there are iconic buildings in Europe, such as Renzo Pianos
Rome Auditorium and the Gothenburg Opera House, where it
has been used extensively for flooring.
The technical characteristics of American Cherry are in
fact impressive, mainly in its finishing properties which provide
manufacturers with the opportunity to achieve a superb quality
surface. But most important is the environmental contribution that
Cherry can make. The tree is not very long lived by comparison
to other hardwood species and, left naturally, it will die and soon
return its embodied carbon to the atmosphere as it rots. The tree
typically is mature enough to harvest at 60 years and mortality
increases rapidly towards 100 years. However furniture produced
from Cherry lumber is rarely thrown out and thus its stored carbon
is likely to be locked up longer than in many other less beautiful hardwoods. The beauty of the species is in the warmth of its
colour, which increases with age another reason why so much
Cherry furniture becomes a heritage item.
Cherry used in fine furniture manufacturing
35
SOLIDWOOD
Flying the
flag for
Indonesian
wood
Indonesian grown logs at SF Resources
36
We have good wood security is a refreshing quote

from an Indonesian flooring producer, committed
to sustainable and legal wood supply, and is a
message that the world needs to hear if the country
is to take its rightful place in the global market. Thats
important, given the long term increasing demand
for flooring developing within the Asian domestic
markets, especially in China and within Indonesia itself.
SF Resources runs a plant of 2,500 people in Java and
has recently been appointed as agent within Asia for
Perum Perhutani, by far the largest plantation operator
on the islands of Java and Madura. Michael Buckley
recently met the President Director of Perhutani in
Jakarta and visited operations in Java.
SF Resources represents the life-long work of its Chairman Goh Ah Tee. Discover beauty, discover wood, discover us is their slogan, subtitled with the
offer of a legal and reliable source of quality hardwood flooring and decking,
stairways and rails. The reference to decking reflects the companys past
strength in the Australian market, but its future clearly rests with its growing
business of flooring in other markets. The claim of being legal and reliable
reflects the companys FSC CoC certification by The Rainforest Alliance, its
SVLK (TLAS) export licence by the government, its Legal Verification System
by CertiSource, as well as certification by Singapores Green Label and the
CE Marking for EU standards.
The company is also a member of the National Wood Flooring Association
of the USA. SF Resources Group headquartered in Singapore, which began in
the 1970s as a timber trading enterprise by three Singaporeans, now operates
in Jombang, Indonesia as PT Seng Fong Moulding Perkasa.
In 2012 the group became the appointed agent of the state-owned forest
enterprise Perhutani, with whom Mr Goh has maintained a long and close
relationship. The significance of this move is rooted in Gohs determination
to rely upon and develop markets solely for Indonesian hardwood species in
all its products. The flooring plant
does not use imported species
and the company is confident in
its ability to satisfy international
demands for legal and sustainable hardwood products. It actively denounces the destruction
of the environment and seeks
recognition for its corporate governance and social responsibility.
Most importantly, Perhutani, as a
Perhutani logo
major employer among the local
community with 24,000 employees, also seeks to improve and satisfy the
social criteria required to maintain its forest certification.
It is entirely coincidental that during the writing of this report, on a company aiming to grow its business in the domestic Chinese market, the Britishbased Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) published its report An
appetite for destruction criticising Chinese wood product sourcing. SF
Resources offers a solution to that emerging problem.
SOLIDWOOD
Headrig at PT Seng Fong Moulding Perkasa
Hardwood material is not only sourced from Perhutanis plantations but also
from many local Javanese private and community plantations as well as other
parts of Indonesia. Merbau logs for example, verified legal by CertiSource, are
shipped from Indonesian Papua to Java for conversion to flooring and decking. However for the longer term, SF Resources is trialling new, more sustainable
and faster growing species such as Sonokeling, Mahoni and Acacia and is now
majoring on plantation Teak.
The Javanese plantation Teak differs slightly in character from that naturally
grown in Burma and Thailand although they are identical species. Java has the
ideal climate with a distinct dry season that Teak demands and much of the soil
is suitable for it. The colour of Javanese grown Teak, being somewhat darker,
also differs in grain pattern as it can do with many other species depending
on their growing localities. But all Teak (Tectona grandis) with its natural characteristics is highly suitable for flooring, decking, furniture and a range of other
specialised uses.
Perhutani has 24,000 employees and manages 2.4 million ha of forest areas
in Java and Madura under government controlled principles of Sustainable Forest Management and Government Regulation #72 implemented in 2010. It has
57 Forest Management Units (FMU) with Teak as the major species, accounting
for 50% of revenue but, over the last few years, production of other species has
exceeded it.
President Director Perhutani with Michael Buckley

Maximising yield at SF Resources
Senior personnel at PT Seng Fong

37
SOLIDWOOD
Perhutani teak plantation
The plantations also produce by-products such as gum rosin, turpentine,

non timber forest products such as mineral water, honey bee and ecotourism
attraction at 122 destinations. It is clear that Perhutani, established in 1897,
now understands exactly what it has to do for the future. Its published mission
statement explains that Perhutani holds a very important role in guaranteeing
the existence of forest areas to support the capacity of communities social
environment and economy: In line with the mandate, Perhutani is required to
be a company with healthy forest resources, operational performance, and
financial performance. Efforts to maintain the continuous balance of forest resources function are constantly undertaken, be it from the ecological, social,
and economic aspects. Perhutani holds an optimistic view for a bright future
based on the vastness of the existing natural resources, its strong and visionary
management, and its consistency in fulfilling international standards to achieve
bright business prospects in the future. Perhutani is fully capable of reaching its
Vision, Missions, and Values to reach the interests of the State, the shareholders,
Teak treated in open air to enhance colour
and the company itself in a sustainable manner focusing on performance strategy, performance effectively and efficiency.... (www.perumperhutani.com)
Recently appointed President Director Bambang Sukmananto emphasises
the need for transparency, and compliance for legislation such as EUTR in all Perhutanis dealings. He anticipates a
Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) being signed soon with the EU on which the governments SVLK export licence
system really depends. The President Director is insistent that the company operates without government interference
but does set and monitor resource regulations. However of all issues that concern him personally and Perhutani as a
responsible forest operator it is the social issues that exist in overcrowded Java that demand most attention. More
than 60% of all Indonesians live in Java, an area the same size as New York State, which accounts for only 6% of the
total land area of Indonesia! Population density is over 2,000 per sq mile or five times higher than NY State. Perhutani
lost its FSC certification some years ago due to the social conflicts created between needs of forest plantations and
other land uses such as farming and vegetable production by local communities. In recent years Perhutani has made
strides to resolve such conflicts and Mr Sukmananto seems determined to see these to fruition. So far five FMUs have
been re-certified by FSC with two more expected to be confirmed shortly.
PT Seng Fongs integrated flooring facility in Java, commissioned in 1990, includes a log yard, sawmill, kiln drying,
moulding and laminating machines, two Finished Products warehouses, eight sawn timber warehouses and a shipping
capacity of about 120 containers per month on an 11 ha site. Average monthly production varies between 1,600m3
to 2,400m3 per month of flooring and decking. The plant operates a two-shift six day week and is considering a third
shift to be introduced shortly.
Solid flooring and decking are major items as well as 2-layer and 3-layer 15mm and 20mm engineered flooring - all
in 100% Indonesian hardwood throughout. Sizes range from 19mm x 90mm to 19mm x 140mm for solid decking and
90mm to 120mm lengths for solid flooring in 15mm and 18mm thickness. Engineered flooring is available up to 185mm
maximum length and is produced mainly T&G 2 or 4-side, although recently an L2C Clic locking system has been
added as an additional option. Profiles are numerous with over 2,000 cutters in stock.
The company projects an increase in engineered flooring although solid still represents
50% of production. Finishing is UV and UV scratch resistant oil, supplied by Klumpp. In
addition to quarter and flat sawn Teak, faces include local species Linngua (Pterocarpus macrocarpus), Komea (Manilkara Kauki), Mahoni (Swietania spp), Acacia
(Acacia Mangium), Merbau (Intsia palembanica), Torem (Manilkara kanosiensis) and
Sonokeling (Dalbergia latifolia).
Project references can be seen locally at Bukit Golf in Surabaya, at the Maya Ubud
Hotel in Bali and the Hotel Sudirman in Jakarta as well as installations in forty overseas
markets. Currently the Australian and Chinese markets are running neck and neck as
number one destination and the EU third. But China is seen as a real growth market
and expected to take priority. For the future, says Goh Ah Tee, we intend to fly the
flag for Indonesian wood in a range of sustainable and legally grown species, secure
in the knowledge that we have good wood security.
More details can be seen at www.sfresourcesgroup.com
Sonokeling faced flooring
38
PANELMANUFACTURING
Power combination
to excellence
By Vivi Chen
A report on Dieffenbachers
wood-based panel production line in
Guangzhou HuaFangZhou Wood (Group) Co. Ltd
People who appreciate and buy specific brands, whether

furniture, apparel, bags, etc., can understand and
appreciate the charm of design and the content behind a
product. There is always a corresponding principle behind
anything that is great. This also applies to a company or
a products success.
As a leading supplier of complete wood-based
panel plants, Dieffenbacher has achieved remarkable
performance worldwide, especially in China. It is widely
known that Dieffenbacher has provided over 100 woodbased panel production lines in China, continuously
boosting the local wood-based panel processing industry.
Last November Panels & Furniture Asia visited Guangzhou
HuaFangZhou Wood (Group) Co. Ltd, a company which
installed Dieffenbachers wood-based panel production
line in its plant.
Selecting equipment based on market positioning
Founded in 1998, with seven wholly-owned enterprises

and a large forestry base, Guangzhou HuaFangZhou
Wood (Group) Co. Ltd has focused on the integration of
forestry and panel production for 15 years. The company is
dedicated to manufacturing particle boards, fibre boards
and melamine decorative panels, as well as and providing
solutions for the entire board industry chain of furniture
enterprises. Its annual output of wood-based panels and
decorative panels are estimated to reach 500,000m3 and
25,000,000m3 respectively, with annual sales of nearly 1
billion RMB.
Founded in May 2012, Fenglin Original Ecology - Raw
Wood Particle Board is a high-end environmental flagship
brand of GuangZhou HuaFangZhou Wood (Group) Co
Ltd. It focuses on the R&D, production and application of
boards in the high-end furniture market. The positioning
of green life with raw wood and original ecology
determined the production equipment selection, which
is why GuangZhou HuaFangZhou Wood only installed the
most proven and advanced technology and equipment
in this field.
Our main lines are imported from Dieffenbacher,
Mr. Zhang Fenglan, Chairman

Guangzhou HuaFangZhou Wood (Group) Co. Ltd
including single-pass drum dryers, forming station,

continuous presses, star coolers and intermediate storage
systems. Our cooperation with them, from installation
to production, was very good, said Zhang Fenglan,
Chairman of Guangzhou HuaFangZhou Wood (Group)
Co. Ltd. "Dieffenbacher wood-based panel production
lines are world-renowned. Its complete equipment
line can be rated as world-class both in performance
(reliability in operation and controllability in process) and
in installation/commissioning."
The production base for the Fenglin Original
Ecology brand is located in Shixing County, Shaoguan,
Guangdong Province. The worlds most advanced
production equipment and technologies, such as those
from Dieffenbacher, were officially put into operation
in June 2012.
The plant has an annual output of 300,000m 3
high-quality environmental raw wood particle
board, producing F 4-star class, CARB P2, E1 class raw
39
PANELMANUFACTURING
Automatic raw board handling with star cooler
Automatic raw board storage
wood particle board in various specifications such as 4*8/5*8/6*8/4*9/7*9 to

meet the needs of customers in different markets.
Making decisions by valuing culture
Localisation serves as a value addition in companies who offer similar or samelevel hardware devices. As a world-class complete equipment supplier for woodbased panels, Dieffenbacher has obviously taken to heart the saying "When in
Rome, do as the Romans do ensuring the outstanding quality of the imported
equipment as well as combining the local culture to create tailor-made solutions
for companies in China.
Besides the renowned production facilities, Dieffenbacher also has a very
important advantage: localised after-sales service. Compared to its competitors,
Dieffenbacher offers better customer technology support and outstanding
training to Chinese engineers by Chinese trainers. This equates to the elimination
of language barriers for easy communication. Cultural differences are also
removed to avoid affecting communication and collaboration due to different
modes of thinking. For example, foreign engineers are relatively reluctant to do
overtime work while the Chinese are used to it (including weekends). It will be
40
Central control room
Star cooler
Thermal energy plant and drying system
PANELMANUFACTURING
easier for Chinese engineers to adapt
to the situation and help solve the
problem in the shortest time,
added Chairman Zhang.
H u a F a n g Z h o u Wo o d w i l l
build forestry bases in Guangdong
and Jiangxi (an estimated
size of 300,000 500,000 Mu of
forests) in the next three to five
years, which will provide the raw
materials and economic benefits
to the company. Moreover, two
production lines will be added
to Jiangxi and Guangdong to
achieve an annual output of 0.81.0 million m3.
The quality and quantity of
products are really contradictory
sometimes. A positive market
trend results to some enterprises
becoming vulnerable to making
wrong decision. We at HuaFangZhou
Wood strategically aimed at high-end
quality when we built the Fenglin Original
EcologyRaw Wood Particle Board brand.
Therefore, the fundamental condition
for guaranteeing high product quality is
to use the most advanced technology and
equipment in the world and strictly control
each process/system in our operations. The
machinery from Dieffenbacher not only meet our
requirements on process layout, but also increase
our production, said Chairman Zhang.
Leading the future with green concept
Forming machine
The layout and plant design of the Fenglin Original

Ecology The panel plant looks very impressive. There
are broad and neat function divisions. There are newlyplanted trees in the surroundings, making the place
feel luxuriant and full of vitality. The images of workers
who were busy finishing lawns and the staff who were
working out plans and strategies in the dustless production
line plants complemented each other. The advanced
technology adopted by the operating equipment
in the Dieffenbacher Central Control Room enables
HuaFangZhou s environmental protection concept of
building garden-like plants.
With the improvement of peoples living standard
and the increasing enhancement of environmental
protection concept, environmental standards will be a
worldwide common trend in the future, said Chairman
Zhang. Developed countries such as European
countries and Japan have high requirements for
the environmental standard rating of furniture. For
example, the environmental protection level of CARB
P2 is required in the United States and the F 4-star
level is required in Japan. Peoples requirements on
41
PANELMANUFACTURING
Continuous press
environment protection indicate the future trend of the board market in China.
Thats why we position ourselves at the forefront of the industry and focus on
high-end products, and highlight their environmental features as well as physical
and chemical performance. We consider the product quality as our foremost
priority and we provide the best materials for downstream furniture companies.
Fenglin Original Ecology employs engineers from Germany and Australia
to take charge of facility management and process production, as well as a
large number of Chinese first-class senior technicians in the board industry. The
company also cooperates with universities such as Nanjing Forestry University to
regularly train technical staff to improve their technical level.
We have our area of expertise. Fenglin Original Ecology will further research
and develop high-standard environmental wood-based panels as well as
implement complementary deep processing to fully meet various needs of
downstream enterprises, he said.
When it comes to market fluctuation in the board industry caused by
economic situations at home and abroad, Chairman Zhang said that the
negative impact was not that great and that there will always be a high demand
for furniture.
In China, there is no direct supply-demand relation between furniture,
board and real estate. The demand for furniture is high, he explained. In the
past, people living in rural towns and less populated urban areas in China buy
furniture made by traditional handwork passed down through generations.
With the accelerated urbanisation and the changing consumer concept
where people value functionality and aesthetics more than classical designs,
the annual consumption of furniture in China has increased (over 10%) over
the years.
According to Chairman Zhang, there are three challenges that furniture
manufacturers in China are facing right now. First, export sales volume is
decreasing. Second, competition is becoming more intense due to the
increasing number of furniture manufacturers. And lastly, the price of resources
is also increasing year after year. "These are some of the reasons why some
manufacturers think the market is sluggish. However, if the company is positioned
well in the market, it will be successful and gain huge market share, he
concluded.
42
Dieffenbacher 4ft panel plants in

Asia
PANELMANUFACTURING
Item
Company/Group
Location/Country
Province/China
Product
ContiPlus
Contract
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
Kronospan Group Line 3

Leenderson Panel Board Co., Ltd
Xinjiang Jinyang Meijia Wood Industry Co., Ltd.
Zhongfu Wood Industry Co., Ltd. Zhangzhou, Fujian
Taihe Dongdun Wood Industry Co., Ltd
Yuncheng Xinyuan Junda Wood Industry Co., Ltd
Guangxi Dongzheng Group
Heihe Shenghui Forestry and Panel Developing Co., Ltd.
Shandong Heyou Group Co., Ltd (I)
Wen'an Tianhua Wood Industry Co.,Ltd.
Shandong Heyou Group Co., Ltd (II)
Vanachai Group Public Company Limited
Chengdu Tinan Wood Industry Co., Ltd.
Chengdu Tinan Wood Industry Co., Ltd.
Sichuan Shenda Group
Zhejiang Liren Group
Zhejiang Liren Group
Liaoning Deer New Material Co., Ltd.
Shandong Heyou Group Co., Ltd (III)
Anhui Dexiang Wood Industry Co., Ltd.
Guangxi Huasheng Wood Industry Co., Ltd.
Anhui Green Continent Wood Industry Co., Ltd
Guangxi Liucheng Jiamei Wood Industry Co., Ltd.
Guangxi Fenglin Wood-Based Panel Co., Ltd.
Jiangxi Green Continent Wood-Based Panel Co., Ltd.
Strzelce Opolskie
Yanglin
Miquan
Zhangzhou
Taihe
Chongqing
Jiujiang
Guanghe
Yucheng
Wen an
Yucheng
BKK
Chengdu
Chengdu
Chengdu
Lixin
Lixin
Kaiyuan
Yucheng
Bengbu
Guigang
Luan
Liucheng
Fenglin
Jian
Poland
Shaanxi
Xinjiang
Fujian
Anhui
Chongqing
Jiangxi
Heilongjiang
Shandong
Hebei
Shandong
Thailiand
Sichuang
Sichuang
Sichuang
Anhui
Anhui
Liaoning
Shandong
Anhui
Guangxi
Anhui
Guangxi
Guangxi
Jiangxi
MDF
OSSB
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
PB
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
PB
MDF
MDF
MDF
PB
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
4'38.5m
4'32 m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4'33.5m
4'33.5m
4'33.5m
4'38.5m
4'33.5m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4'38.5m
4' x 38.5m
4' x 38.5m
4' x 48.5m
4' x 48.5m
2007.11
2007.12
2008.08
2009.08
2009.09
2009.11
2009.11
2009.12
2010.01
2010.09
2010.09
2010.10
2010.11
2010.11
2010.12
2011.01
2011.01
2011.03
2011.04
2011.04
2011.04
2011.05
2011.07
2012.05
2012.09
Dieffenbacher 8ft panel plants in Asia

Customer
Location
Country
CPS type (width-length)
Product
Startup
Hongwei Woods Industry

May Forestry JSC
Kangxin New Material Science & Technology Stock Co. Ltd.
Guangxi Xiangsheng Wood Industry Co., Ltd.
Guangdong Shixing Huazhou Wood Co., Ltd.
Hainan Shengda Wood Industry Co., Ltd.
S. Kijchai MDF Co., Ltd.
Guangdong Wulian Wood Industrial Group Co., Ltd.
Huizhou Shengyi Wood Industry Co., Ltd.
UNID Co., Ltd.
Henan Zhoukou Hongyi Wood Co. Ltd.
Fujian Furen Wood Industry Co., Ltd.
Fujian Furen Wood Industry Co., Ltd.
Hunan Yiyang Senhua Forestry Development Co., Ltd.
Sumitomo Forestry Co., Ltd.
Guangxi Hezhou Xinrong Xing Forestry Co., Ltd.
Star Panel Boards Ltd.
Baoyuan
FUJIAN YONGAN Forestry Co., Ltd.
GUANGYUAN SHENGDA Forestry Ind., Co. Ltd.
GREENPLY Industries Limited
SICHUAN GUODONG Construction Co., Ltd.
ATP
BAOSHAN CORP. Co. Ltd.
FENGKAI WEILIBANG Wood Industry Co. Ltd.
SHANXI ZHONG XING TIMBER Co. Ltd.
SIAM FIBRE
HEBEI WEILIBANG Wood Industry Co. Ltd.
HUBEI WEILIBANG Wood Industry Co. Ltd.
Dare Wood Industrial Co. Ltd.
OKURA Industrial Co. Ltd.
SICHUAN SHENGDA Wooden Products
ANHUI DONGDUN Wood Based Co. Ltd.
HEBEI YINGANG
GREEN RIVER PANELS
HEVEA BOARD Berhad
ATP
TAISHAN WEILIBANG Co. Ltd.
S.P.B. Co. Ltd.
HUBEI BAOYUAN Group Co. Ltd.
SHANXI ZHONG XING TIMBER Co. Ltd.
SICHUAN GUODONG Construction Co., Ltd.
MIECO Manufacturing Sdn Bhd
HEBEI YINGANG
WEIHUA Group Co. Ltd.
ATP
SHANDONG ZHENGHE WOOD IND.
SUNWAY FOREST PRODUCTS CO. LTD.
LISHUI OAK MMB CO. LTD.
GUANGXI GAOFENG
EVERGREEN
ATP
JAPAN NOVOPAN
N & E Co. Ltd.
ATP
DAIKEN
ROBIN RESOURCES (LOHMA)
CARTER HOLT HARVEY
Shaoguan City, Guangdong Province

Vinh, Nghe An
Hanchuan City, Hubei Province
Chongzuo City, Ningming County
Huazhou City, Guangdong Province
Tunchang County, Hainan Province
Rayong
Shaoguan City, Guangdong Province
Huizhou City, Guangdong Province
Gunsan
Zhoukou City, Henan Province
Jingzhou City, Hubei Province
Fuzhou, Fujian Province
Yiyang City, Hunan Province
Ben Luc District, Long An Province
Guangxi Province
Kolar District, Karnataka State
Jinmen Hubei Province
Yongan Fujian Province
Guangyuan Sichuan Province
Pantnagar Rampura
Chengdu Sichuan Province
Sichuan Province
Pengzhou City Sichuan Province
Fengkai City Guangdong Province
Xi an City Shaanxi Province
Haadyai
Qiu County Hebei
Xiangfan City Hubei
Deqing, Guangdong
Mitoyo-City Kagawa Pref.
Chengdu
Chizhou Anhui
Hebei Province
Songkhla
Gemas
Huizhou Guangdong
Taishan Guangdong
Surat Thani
Jinmen City Hubei
Xi an City Shaanxi Province
Chengdu Sichuan Province
Kuala Lipis
Zhengding Hebei
Qingyuan Guangdong
Heyuan Guangdong
Guang Rao County Shandong
Wuzhou Guangxi
Lishui City Zhejiang
Rong Xiang Guangxi
Johor Baru
Shishou (Hubei)
Tsukuba
Komatsushima
Leshan (Sichuan)
Bintulu (Sarawak)
Mentakap (Pahang)
Rangiora
China
Vietnam
China
China
China
China
Thailand
China
China
Korea
China
China
China
China
Vietnam
China
India
China
China
China
India
China
China
China
China
China
Thailand
China
China
China
Japan
China
China
China
Thailand
Malaysia
China
China
Thailand
China
China
China
Malaysia
China
China
China
China
China
China
China
Malaysia
China
Japan
Japan
China
Malaysia
Malaysia
New Zealand
295
265
280
265
265
265
265
295
265
265
295
265
265
265
265
265
295
265
295
265
265
265
265
265
295
265
265
265
265
265
225
265
265
265
265
265
280
265
265
295
265
280
265
265
295
280
295
295
265
265
265
265
225
295
259
295
278
295
PB
MDF
OSB
PB
PB
MDF
MDF
PB
PB
THDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
PB
MDF
PB
OSB
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
PB
MDF
MDF
PB
PB
PB
PB
MDF
PB
MDF
MDF
MDF
PB
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
PB
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
MDF
2013
2013
2013
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2010
2010
2010
2010
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2008
2008
2008
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2006
2006
2006
2006
2005
2006
2005
2004
2004
2004
2004
2003
2003
2003
2003
2000
1998
1997
1996
1996
1996
1995
1994
26.4
17.4
40.4
20.5
20.5
33.5
23.5
26.5
20.5
24.5
28.0
19.4
30.5
28.0
24.5
23.5
22.0
30.0
33.5
23.5
27.9
26.4
23.5
23.5
37.6
23.5
28.0
24.2
24.2
24.2
31.2
18.2
25.9
20.1
20.1
41.7
20.1
18.2
15.8
20.4
23.2
40.6
41.7
23.2
28.5
31.3
28.5
42.9
23.2
23.2
14.8
19.0
29.3
25.5
19.0
20.6
28.0
18.5
43
PANELMANUFACTURING
The 8 feet continuous pressing production line developed

by China FOMA Group Co. three years ago has been
running steadily for several months now. All the boards were
inspected by the National Centre for Quality Supervision and
Testing of Wood and Bamboo Products, and all specifications
meet National Standards.
This means that the market which has been dominated
by several European companies is about to change. With
its lower cost and great performance, the 8 feet continuous
pressing production line from China FOMA will have a great
impact on the wood-based panel industries.
Several members of the mainstream media, professional
design institutes of Chinas wood-based panel industries,
and some large-production wood-based panel
manufacturers visited the machine running on site. All of
For more information:
them were impressed and gave high praises.
www.chinafoma.com
The continuous press features proprietary intellectual
property right in the press infeed section, on-line accurate
control, hydro-electrical high frequency response and cluster
control, board thickness and shape automatic coordinate adjustment, on-line-speed-supervision for steel belt and roller
rod carpet. The chipper, defiberator and sanding sawing system are China FOMAs traditional superior and best-selling
products. The 8 feet continuous press and the other machinery that go with it, such as the forming machine, pre-press,
loading conveyer and high-speed sawing system, are also innovations of China FOMA.
China FOMAs chipper, defiberator and sanding machine have been the no. 1 selling products in the Chinese market
for a long time, making the company the customers first choice among the Chinese wood-based panel manufacturers.
The success of the 8 feet continuous press means that China FOMA, after many years of playing the role of supplying
machines such as chipper for the European large capacity continuous press, has become a full machinery supplier.
From material preparation to sanding and sawing for the complete wood-based panel production line (multiopening/continuous press), customers now have a high-quality choice when setting up their over 150,000 cbm/yr
wood-based panel production line.
China FOMA
8MDF
continuous
pressing
production line
44
PANELMANUFACTURING
Weinigs PROFIPRESS C:
Innovation in panel
production
The PROFIPRESS C out of the DimterLine offers a worldwide unique gluing possibility to produce solid wood panels out
of hardwood. This method convinced company Masif Panel, a manufacturer of high-quality furniture panels for a big
store, to invest in such a production line. Equipped with a pressing bed of only 2.8m length, the PPC 3200 HF produces
solid wood panels mainly out of beech and oak with a capacity of up to 1.350m per shift.
This is possible because of the high performance infeed system of the continuous laminating press and the most efficient radio frequency
technology. In the packet assembly station (see
picture series on the right), up to 6 glued lamellas
are pre-collected in very short time, then being
positioned at the infeed and inserted into the
press in one package. So already during the
infeed process, the next lamellas can be glued
and collected. Thanks to this system, performance can be increased up to 28 lamellas per
minute. The glue is completely cured in several
minutes inside the short pressing bed by means
of most modern radio frequency technology
combined with an automatically controlled
generator. The RF-energy is only heating up the joint itself the timber stays entirely cold. In consequence, there are
neither tensions nor warpings in the panel and therefore firmly closed joints. Due to the RF technology, the pressing bed
is very short, which allows a change-over to different lengths or thicknesses without any trouble or losing time.
Furthermore, it is possible to produce classical solid wood panels with variable widths which are then cut to length
with a cross saw. For this, the glue application is equipped with an automatic width measuring system and a controlled
separating station for lamellas varying in width. The panels can be glued as well at a pre-defined width as in an endless
way. In combination with a cross saw, significant
savings of raw material can be achieved. After
the cross saw, there is an automatic transportation to a corresponding destacking system.
Before they took the decision for WEINIG
machinery to produce solid wood panels, the
company Masif Panel was using simple machines of a competitor. The PROFIPRESS C finally
convinced them of the WEINIG quality. For the
customer, WEINIG symbolises high-end and reliable machinery to receive an end product of
highest quality. To conclude, the customer is very
satisfied with his decision for the PROFIPRESS out
of the DimterLine and he intends to further enlarge his production with machines and systems
made by WEINIG.
45
SHOWPREVIEW
WoodMac
China:
Aggression
in recession
for China's
woodworking
industry
46
Chinas growth rate of 7.5% GDP is the envy of the worlds industrial nations.
However, for the Chinese woodworking sector, this level of recorded growth
and the reality in the market place represent tough times. Industry experts report
that technology sales have never been so poor. The traditional export markets of
Europe and USA are weak and the domestic market has not recovered from the
slow down of the housing sector engineered by the Central Government. Despite
all these, October 2012 saw signs of recovery in technology sales and aggressive
marketing by Chinese technology companies. The increasing competition is forcing companies to work harder for sales and this has been reflected by the record
bookings received for the 12th edition of WoodMac China, the international
woodworking technology exhibition scheduled for 5-8 March 2013, in Shanghai.
Supported by the China National Forestry Machinery Association and the
private sector, woodworking guilds from Harbin, Qingdao, Shanghai and Lunjiao in South China are booking space in record numbers and size of stands for
WoodMac China 2013.
The exhibition has a reputation for attracting buyers from every sector of
the woodworking industry and from all over China and around the world, for
primary wood processing, to panel board and wood product manufacturing, to
producers of flooring, furniture and wood building products, said Mr. Brendan
Jennings, General Manager of China International Exhibitions. At the last edition of
WoodMac China in 2011, 17,000 visitors attended including some 2,000 overseas
buyers, offering the prize of lucrative export contracts. Increased competition
for every sale means that Chinese companies, particularly, dont want to miss any
opportunity for making new contacts and sales to all international and domestic
buyers that will attend WoodMac China next March, added Mr. Jennings.
Top Chinese companies leading the race to win more sales and who have
already secured large pavilions of between 200m2 and 475m2 at WoodMac
China 2013 include Xicheng, Xinjihongye and Liton, Weili, Motimac, Lineng, QCR,
Harvey, Qingcheng, Excitech, Ruijie and Nanxing. International brands have
also increased their presence at the show and leading the way are Imal/Pal,
Wemhoener, Guoming from Taiwan region, Union Brother, Grenzebach, IMEAS
and more. The panel board sector continues to be dominated by international
brands, and they will return again to WoodMac China, including Siempelkamp,
Dieffenbacher, Raute, Berndorf, Steinemann and Andritz. Chinas leading panel
board manufacturer, China Foma, will again have the largest presence in the
exhibition for this sector.
Apart from machinery, WoodMac also includes a large section for the suppliers
of tools, saw blades, abrasives, routers and other components used in woodworking machines. At the show, buyers will find stands offering the latest products and
designs from Hi-tech, Bosun, Yongtai and Sanhe. For buyers of lumber, veneers,
wood products and all supplies for making furniture, flooring, wood engineering,
staircases, cabinets and more, they will find stands at the show from Canada
Wood, Northwest Hardwoods and Midwest Hardwood.
WoodMac China 2013 offers buyers from every aspect of the woodworking
industry a range of technologies and components that cannot be seen in any
other event in the country. Whether you work in forestry or a professional in primary
processing to wood product manufacturing; or producers of furniture, cabinets,
flooring, stairs or window; or architect, interior designer or building contractor,
you will all find a range of technologies and products at WoodMac China and
the associate shows FurniTek and WoodBuild China that will meet your needs for
increased productivity, energy efficiency, labour saving and latest product designs.
Visit www.woodmacchina.net, www.furnitekchina.net and www.woodbuildchina.
net for more information.
Buyers seeking to identify suppliers of specific technology can easily find the
right contacts in WoodMac China's B2B online platform. Once you have identified
the companies you wish to meet, the show organiser will make appointments for
you during the show. Plan your visit to WoodMac China 2013 now by registering
at www.woodmaccchina.net.
SHOWPREVIEW
Interzum Guangzhou to celebrate
th
anniversary
i
with
ith surprises
i
Fancy sipping some red wine in a relaxed environment with soothing background music while sniffing out business
opportunities at a trade fair? This is the kind of service organisers of CIFM / interzum guangzhou Asias largest
woodworking machinery and furniture production fair are providing in preparation for the events 10th edition slated
to happen from March 27-30, 2013 in Guangzhou, China.
Enhanced with a mini wine bar, the visitor lounge in Hall 14.1, dubbed Piazza, offers participants the right amount
of relaxation and ice-breaker they need when doing business in China.
While attractive refreshments are only the icing on the cake, the major highlight of the show is without a doubt the
dazzling array of exhibits on display.
The 130,000-square metre showcase spanning areas B and C of the Pazhou Complex is expected to host over 1,000
top furniture manufacturers, eight national pavilions and draw more than 56,000 professional buyers from all over the
world. Of which, the international halls (Hall 11.1, 14.1 &15.1) will see some new developments next year.
Still located in Area C, the Raw Materials & Components Zone will be represented by four distinct product segments
with hardware and components as well as a Turkish and Spanish pavilion respectively occupying Hall 14.1, and Hall 15.1
featuring materials and equipment for upholstery and bedding, wood products and adhesives, materials and equipment
for interior design together with group participation from Turkey, Germany, the US/Canada, Italy, Chile and AHEC.
While remaining in Area B, the Machinery Zone will see the bedding and upholstery machinery zone migrate to Hall
13.1. Hall 11.1 is set to continue to showcasing woodworking machinery, tools and other machinery and a German pavilion.
Besides national pavilions, other international participation remains active and organisers expect the show to be
another sell-out as with previous years.
Key players have all filed in including:
Homag, IMA Vollmer Duerkopp Adler Pfaff Wemhoener Union Brother Beland SCM Festool Freud
Aaron, HSD Mechatronic Microvellum Software Paolino Bacci Dimar Precision and Fengchaou at HALL 11.1.
FGV harn Repon Titus, King Slide TAKACHIHO KOHEKI Topslide Cebi Hanstar Litong Koyo Cyber
Lock Reggar Italiana Ferramenta Sugatsune Lianxun and TEAM SAKIMORI at HALL 14.1.
Okin Refined Boyteks Tekstil Zahonero Ateja Tritunggal Bekaert Jacquard Textile Laytex American
Softwoods AHEC Franklin Adhesives H.B. Fuller Dana Lim Dazer Sino French Timber Henkel Schattdecor
Rehau ALPI Vefer Radium Foam Suspa Renolit Jowat Konrad Hornschuch Schwinn Tabu ILCAM
Tece Dekor eMomo Zhulian Xinyada Orchard Talent Hongda Internet Wood Glue Rocky Limoss
Tece Dekor and URUFOR at HALL 15.1.
In addition, senior executives, industry veterans and representatives from trade associations will be sharing new
concepts and trends at themed seminars centering on innovative technology and furniture materials to be held at the
Piazza on March 28 & 29. A collection of renowned publications and magazines on designs and trends will be showcased
in the Resource Area between Hall 14.1 and 15.1 where both exhibitors and visitors could freely browse.
CIFM / interzum guangzhou is an annual gathering held in co-location with the widely-attended China International
Furniture Fair.
For more information, visit www.interzum-guangzhou.com.
47
SHOWPREVIEW
DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR
is 79% booked and selling fast
Floor space for DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR is 79%
booked five months ahead of the March 26-28, 2013
show in Shanghai. Enthusiasm for new programmes,
the addition of a new segment to the show and
recognition that DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR sits at
the epicenter of one of the worlds fastest growing
flooring markets are factors fueling early exhibitor
bookings. Show floor space was increased to
130,000 sq m. Based on early figures, the organisers
believe the turnout could increase as much as 6-9%
to 45,000 in 2013.
Worlds largest wood flooring showcase
DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2013 will be

the largest showcase for wood and laminate
manufacturers the world has ever seen, dedicating
around 50% of its total show floor to the segment
that includes solid and engineered woods, laminate,
cork and bamboo.
After a few years of absence, global giants UnilinQuickstep, Pergo, Kronoflooring and Kronoswiss
will come back to the show in 2013. BerryAlloc,
Floover, AHEC and NWFA have re-confirmed their
attendance after last years participation and join
the ranks of hundreds of wood segment exhibitors
at DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR.
Assisted marketing for new products launches
Pre-show, on-site and post-show value-added

marketing services designed to increase exposure
of exhibitors and their new products is the original
concept for DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2013. The
InnovAction flooring programme gives exhibitors
access to international media outlets, a leadgenerating data base, assistance with target
marketing, e-newsletters, social media, consultants
and even a special press conference venue and
48
product launch support. InnovAction flooring will not only

be an outstanding opportunity for exhibitors but also a
value added event for visitors and professionals looking
for flooring innovations.
Ceramic tiles and stones added to the show
In 2013, for the first time, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR

will add ceramic tiles and stone floorings to the show
focusing on high-end products. Asia is the largest consumer
of ceramic in the world and demand for fashion oriented,
innovative products is on the rise. DOMOTEX asia/
CHINAFLOOR gives Western manufacturers an opportunity
to reach that market with the new CER Tiles & Stones venue.
Like other segments, the new ceramic/stone sector broadly
includes ceramic tiles and stones in both finished slabs
and unprocessed natural stone, floor laying materials and
supplies, machinery and tools, cleaning and maintenance
and associations.
Expanded exposure to Asias construction industry
Open alongside DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR in the

Shanghai New International Exhibition Centre will be the
Shanghai Architect Fair (SAF), a leading event attracting
thousands of architects and interior designers specialised in
materials and technologies used in their projects (Buildings
and Inner Spaces). Many topics will be covered during
SAF, including hospital, sport and hotel applications, whilst
a special section will be focused on the resilient hospital
segment.
Other forums taking place during the event will address
heated flooring technology, green building practices and
building materials distribution.
In its 15th year, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR expects to
host 1,200 exhibitors covering all segments of floor covering.
It is the largest floor covering show in the Asia Pacific region
and the second largest in the world, second only to its sister
show, DOMOTEX Hannover.
SHOWPREVIEW
Trilogy of design-led shows in Singapore

IFFS/AFS 2013, The Dcor Show 2013 & The Hospitality Show 2013
Pre-registration is now open for the International Furniture Fair Singapore

2013/30th ASEAN Furniture Show (IFFS/AFS 2013), The Dcor Show 2013 and
The Hospitality Show 2013. Industry professionals can register at www.iffs.com.
sg for complimentary access to the trilogy of design-led shows, where the
latest in quality furniture and furnishings will be presented under one roof.
Co-locating with the shows is the Hospitality.Design.Furniture (HDF) Luxurious
Projects Asia, Summit & Awards 2013. In this second edition, the HDF conference will focus on luxury projects from the region, and will also see the launch
of a new Awards segment to recognise the best architectural and design
firms in the industry.
Following a successful 2012 edition that welcomed 23,552 trade visitors
comprising 118 overseas buying delegations, over 512 exhibiting companies
from 26 countries, and more than 150 conference delegates, IFFS 2013 expects to usher significantly more quality industry professionals to the trilogy
of shows, slated to be held from 9 to 12 March 2013 at the Singapore Expo.
To date, 85% of available exhibiting space for IFFS 2013 has already been
sold. Clement Ng, Chief Operating Officer for IFFS, commented, Were looking forward to another strong showing at IFFS 2013. Our exhibitors say that
this platform is consistently one of the most important for their businesses
because of its prominent focus on design, and the high quality of exhibits on
display yearly. Buyers come from all over the region for these reasons too,
to ensure that they get the best in design and quality from the top suppliers
in the industry.
In recent years, IFFS has also witnessed an upswing in visitors from outside
the Asia-Pacific region. Sarge Chopra, owner of an outdoor and indoor
furniture company located in Ontario, Canada, visited IFFS 2012 with some
specific needs. He shared, I usually attend the shows in Malaysia and China,
but decided to come to IFFS this year to source for outdoor and indoor furniture. Ive heard that the show has improved over the past few years, and
personally, I find the selection of products more fancy and attractive than
that at the other regional events.
Luxurious Projects Asia, Summit & Awards 2013
The HDF conference and awards show will be held on 11 March 2013 at
Max Atria, Singapore Expo. More than 200 delegates are expected to attend
the one-day Luxurious Projects Asia Summit and key speakers have already
been confirmed. They include Milou Ket from Milou Ket Styling & Design, Frank
Santagata from Marina Bay Sands, Gordon Gill from Adrian Smith + Gordon
Gill Architecture, Kratsen Vollmer from Frost & Partners and Jan Zastera from
Preciosa Lighting. These professionals will be joined by other trade experts in
sharing their knowledge, views, and outlook of the hospitality, design, and
furniture industries, with luxury projects across Asia serving as an anchoring
theme. The inaugural HDF Awards will be held during a luncheon, where
awards for five categories will be presented to the winning companies.
For more information on IFFS/AFS 2013,The Dcor Show 2013

and The Hospitality Show 2013, please visit: www.iffs.com.sg |
www.TheDecorShow.com.sg | www.TheHospitalityShow.com.sg
49
SHOWPREVIEW
2
Photo 1
At ZOW, planners from the fields of
architecture, design and interior
design are able to find the products and ideas necessary for their
creative concepts as well as reliable
suppliers.
From 18 to 21 February 2013, ZOW at the

trade fair centre Bad Salzuflen/Germany
is going to be the venue at which new
products, materials and process solutions of the supplier industry for furniture
and interior design will be showcased
Photo 2
for the very first time. Also included are
ZOW presents a full range of prodextensive exhibitor presentations for the
ucts for the commercial construction
industry: From lightweight concommercial construction industry: from
struction and lighting technology, to
lightweight and lighting technology, to
tradeshow construction and shop
tradeshow construction and shop fitting,
fitting, hotel equipment, caravan and
hotel equipment, to caravan and ship
ship construction.
construction. The trade fair has become
(Photos Courtesy of Clarion Events)
a meeting point for a growing number of
planners from the fields of architecture,
design and interior design. At ZOW, planners are able to find the products and
ideas necessary for their creative concepts as well as reliable suppliers.
Taking place every February in the
furniture cluster East Westphalia-Lippe,
ZOW is a fixed event for executives in the
furniture industry and interior design. No
other B2B trade fair provides them with a
concise overview over the market and
supplier innovations as early on in the year as ZOW. For the 2013 edition, roughly 490 national and international exhibitors and 13,500 leading decision-makers are expected. The wide range of showcases at ZOW covers surfaces, mounting parts and systems, semi-finished products, interior design products, such as panels and floors, as well as upholstery
materials and leather. This does not only make ZOW a hot spot for the furniture industry, but also a paradise for interior
designers in the commercial construction industry, trade fair constructors, shop fitters, interior designers and designers.
ZOW 2013:
hotspot for
commercial
construction
Sustainable products and processes: Lightweight furniture construction at the igeL forum
A quickly modifiable look, innovative materials, distinctive designs, integrated of modern technologies, energy efficiency
and other ecological guidelines are only some of the requirements to be met by todays construction industry. Sustainability in particular has become a primary topic in this industry.
Future-oriented impetus can be provided with modern lightweight and hybrid concepts. The interconnection of innovative, economical materials with new functions creates additional value for furniture and interior design. Certified
lightweight construction elements already meet the high fire protection requirements for trade show construction and
shop fitting. At ZOW 2013, the members of the lightweight construction association igeL (www.igel-ev.net) will showcase
their expert know-how and introduce recent developments. The igeL network includes experts in the fields of materials
research and development, material supply, industry service provision, as well as mechanical and plant engineering.
The lightweight pioneers at the igeL forum of ZOW will provide consulting services in hall 22.1.
50
SHOWPREVIEW
FMC China provides the best

woodworking
machinery
and furniture
raw materials
Furniture Manufacturing & Supply China 2013 (FMC China 2013) will
be staged at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Centre
(SWEECC) from 11-14 September, 2013. The show will comprise four indoor
halls, H1, H2, H3, and H4. The total surface area will be 71,000 sqm and
it is expected to attract 850 exhibitors.
FMC China 2013 will be held concurrently with Furniture China 2013,
one of the biggest furniture shows in the world. The visitors badge is valid
for both shows and a shuttle bus will be specially arranged for visitors
convenience.
FMC has been successfully held for 18 years. FMC China 2012 attracted
761 exhibitors and 30,759 trade buyers from 111 countries and regions. The
Taiwan Pavilion, the States of North Carolina and Pennsylvania hardwood
Pavilions, as well as associations and groups from Malaysia, Mexico,
India and Vietnam all participated. The exhibits included Woodworking
Machinery & Tools, Furniture Coating & Chemicals, Furniture Hardware &
Fittings, Furniture Inspection, Design & Services, Furniture Panels & Surface
Decor, Cabinet & Wardrobe Fittings/Furniture Lightings, Furniture Fabric &
Leather, Upholstery Furniture Components & Supplies, and Office Furniture
Supplies & Gas Springs.
Semi-finished Furniture will be launched in 2013. The organiser has
expanded the exhibition area for woodworking and machinery so that
visitors will gain a more comprehensive onsite experience.
Hall 1 (First Floor): Woodworking Machinery & Tools
Hall 2 (First Floor): FMC Premium 2013; Upholstery Machinery; Coating
Equipment; CNC Machinery
Hall 3 (Second Floor): Furniture Raw Materials & Components Area
with Seven Themed Sections; Furniture Hardware & Fittings;
Furniture Inspection, Design & Services; Cabinet/Wardrobe
Fittings & Furniture Lighting Accessories; Furniture Panels
& Surface Dcor; Furniture Fabric & Leather; Upholstery
Furniture Components & Supplies; Semi-finished Furniture
Hall 4 (Underground Floor): Office Furniture Supplies & Gas Springs;
Furniture Coatings, Adhesives & Chemicals Products
FMC China 2013 will emphasise the development of the whole
industry in the Chinese furniture market and enhance industry chain
linkage, providing sound foundations for the furniture and equipment
manufacturing components, thereby enabling China to become the
foremost furniture manufacturing nation.
The New Products, New Technologies and New Materials Collection
areas will be arranged both in SNIEC and SWEECC. These professional
showcases will build a bridge for exhibitors and trade buyers,
benefiting both sides by generating direct communication between the
upstream and downstream industry enterprises. For more information,
visit www.fmcchina.com.cn.
51
SHOWPREVIEW
Interzum 2013:
Three trade fairs,
three topics,
one destination
Cologne will once again be the central meeting place for
the worlds furniture industry. It will be the focus of the three
trade fairs imm cologne, LivingKitchen and interzum. As
the worlds leading trade fair for furniture production and
interior fittings, the latter will once again offer international
visitors a unique, wide-ranging market overview of material and design trends with halls at full capacity. A varied
supporting programme together with three piazzas with
various themes ensure that interzum will continue to be
the source of inspiration for product developers, designers
and architects.
The interzum trade fair will again set the standards in
2013 as the worlds largest trade fair for materials to manufacture furniture and interior fittings. The focus will be on
new products and ideas in particular because manufacturers have to a large extent aligned their development
programmes with the two-year cycle of interzum. Unusually 2013 is the next date because for the first time the
trade fair will take place after Ligna in Hannover, which is
traditionally held over Ascension Day. This is so that visitors
and in particular those from abroad can easily combine
both events meaning that this time interzum is starting on
a Monday and finishing on a Thursday.
5
52
JANUARY/FEBRUARY
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13-16 May 2013,

Cologne, Germany
The supporting programme is especially varied for this

forthcoming event: for the seventh time the competition
for the interzum award: intelligent material & design
will show which position the supply industry occupies in
the development of contemporary designs. Awards will
be given to innovative products, which combine aboveaverage functionality with a high level of quality. In order
to support the development of the next generation, the
young designer award will be presented by the Association
of German Industrial Designers (Verband der Deutschen
Industriedesigner). In addition to the coveted awards, the
interior designer day organised by the Architects Chamber
of North Rhine-Westphalia will take place once again. The
Veneer and Nature Initiative will be organising the firmly
established European Veneer Forum together with the Association of the German Timber Trade (Gesamtverband
Deutscher Holzhandel) and Koelnmesse. An innovation
workshop for wood-based products is planned together
with the Association of the German Wood-based Panel
Industries (VHI).
The three central piazzas within the halls will ensure that
more detailed information is available: the piazza in Hall
6, in product segment Materials & Nature, will focus on
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SHOWPREVIEW
the latest trends and product developments from the sectors of

decorative surfaces, wood-based products and veneers or solid
wood. In Hall 4.2 interzum will once again underline its creative potential and showcase new applications by architects, designers
and developers at the special exhibition entitled innovation of
interior. The forum for innovative ideas from the upholstery, beds
and textiles industry will take place in Hall 10 (Textile & Machinery).
There are already signs of a high level of registrations for interzum 2013 at such an early stage. By September 2012 registrations
had already been received from 690 companies. This corresponds
to an increase of about 8% compared with the same period
in 2010. Approximately 60% of companies are foreign with the
largest number of exhibitors coming from Italy, closely followed
by Turkey and Spain. In addition, there will be group participants
from Italy, Turkey and the US. This is why Halls 6 (Materials & Nature), 7 and 8 (Function & Components) as well as 9 (Textile &
Machinery) are already fully booked. Koelnmesse is expecting
over 1,450 exhibitors at interzum 2013.
For more information, visit www.interzum.com
53
SHOWPREVIEW

Copyright Deutsche Messe AG
Every odd-numbered year, forestry and timber industry professionals from around the globe flock to LIGNA HANNOVER to
get an overview of all the latest trends and developments in
their respective fields of specialisation. This years fair will run
from May 6 - 10, 2013 in Hannover, Germany, and is again
shaping up to be a must-see showcase for anyone interested
in staying ahead of their game.
LIGNA 2013 will showcase the next generation of highly
flexible, multi-functional wood processing machines. Rising
market demand for customised products is confronting wood
processors and the skilled trades with unprecedented challenges. Todays processing solutions have to cope with all kinds
of order scenarios, from mass production through to single-lot
One
investment,
production. They also have to be able to cater for an increasingly diverse range of materials and products. Manufacturers
have to find new ways of compensating for the productivity
losses arising from increasingly customised production.
While the emphasis in large-scale serial production environments is on optimising process flows, SMEs are more focused
on flexible processing systems. These types of companies are
looking for innovative solutions that offer a broad range of
applications. More and more manufacturers are also seeking
out integrated solutions that can perform the work processes
of multiple machines. For these reasons, LIGNA 2013 will be
putting the spotlight on the latest generation of flexible, multifunction machines and aggregate technology solutions.
German machinery suppliers already have a solid reputation as providers of high-quality multi-functional processing
systems. Machines that are capable of sizing, profiling and
encasing raw panels in a single pass have been in use in the
furniture industry for a number of years. LIGNA 2013 will be
showcasing the next generation of these machines as well as
integrated solid wood processing solutions that are designed
to cater for the ever-increasing diversity of surface finishes
demanded by the market. The latest multifunction machines
are now capable of reproducing freely programmable
three-dimensional structures without the need for expensive
upgrade kits. Units like these allow SMEs both to deliver lucrative special orders and mass produce conventional products,
quickly and efficiently. Todays grinding machines offer all
sanding processes in one workstation, from cross and longitudinal sanding through to high-gloss finishes. Ageing effects,
which used to require multiple work-intensive processing steps,
can now be achieved in a single, continuous operation, resulting in significant productivity gains and space savings over
traditional angular systems.
Conventional timber sawing solutions can also expect to
face some stiff competition from new technologies at LIGNA
2013. The latest systems combine panel, rip and docking saws
in one multi-functional unit. For timber processors, this means
major capital investment savings and efficiency gains. Combined sawing-storage solutions are also gaining ground in the
industry, not least because of their automatic panel storage
and feed systems, which minimise machine idle time. They
54
multiple
benefits
also minimise scrap and processing waste, reduce labour

costs and are able to handle a diverse range of materials
and dimensions.
Five-axis technology has significantly expanded the areas
of application of CNC machining centres. LIGNA 2013 will
feature a number of machining centres which represent the
next evolutionary stage of this technology: six-axis systems.
Here, too, the trend is towards greater flexibility and more
compact machines. Adapter aggregates that can do the
work of up to five conventional tool assemblies in stair, door
and window manufacturing operations are likely to create
a major splash at next years show. Users of these systems
benefit from significantly reduced retooling times and higher
productivity. Modular systems offer an alternative approach
to retooling. Timber processors are sure to find a solution for
their specific needs and just about any application among the
wide range of different upgrade kits on show at LIGNA 2013.
A number of new-generation horizontal panel saws on display at the fair will feature an additional pusher, enabling multiple simultaneous cutting cycles. Manufacturers of throughfeed drilling machines have also embraced the multi-tasking
production principle. Selected throughfeed drilling machines
now feature drilling heads that are fitted with both vertical and
horizontal spindles. Multiple-spindle drilling heads significantly
boost the productivity of timber window manufacturing operations since they can perform many of the various processing
steps required for the application of window fittings, thereby
replacing a whole raft of individual angle drilling heads. The
idea of combining two processing steps in a single machine
can also be found in the latest generation of vacuum presses.
These enable the pre-heating and molding of thermoplastic
materials in a single processing step. Even hand-held power
tools are following the multi-tasking trend. For instance, LIGNA
2013 will feature multiplaners that can cut, mill and slot a wide
range of different materials.
For users, the trend towards multifunctional and multiproduct processing systems opens up new opportunities to
leverage multiple benefits from a single machine investment.
LIGNA 2013 is a must-see event for anyone wanting to get a
comprehensive overview of all the latest market-ready wood
processing innovations.
SHOWREVIEW
PANELS
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PA
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URNI
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ASI
SIA
Trade fair duo
IMM COLOGNE and

LIVINGKITCHEN 2013
on a successful course
MM lounge, MBELMEILE
After seven intense days, the imm cologne closed its doors on Sunday with
very good results. 1,250 companies from more than 50 countries showcased
the latest trends for the coming year and including estimates for the last
day of the fair attracted 142,000 visitors to Cologne.
This year, there was a 13% rise in the internationality of the visitor structure
a significant increase. The international furnishing fair was able to report
particularly positive growth in the emerging markets of Eastern Europe and
Asia that are so important for the sector. This result is a great signal for the imm
cologne and confirmation of a performance befitting a leading international
fair, said a visibly satisfied Gerald Bse, CEO of Koelnmesse. "With this trade
fair duo, we have written the next chapter in the success story of the imm
cologne and LivingKitchen. Cologne is the absolute focal point of the furniture
and kitchen industry especially when it comes to business," continues the
trade fair corporation's chief executive officeDirk-Uwe Klaas, Chief Executive
of the Association of the German Furniture Industry (Verband der Deutschen
Mbelindustrie), came to a similarly positive conclusion: "The imm cologne
2013 was an outstanding trade fair the German furniture industry is more than
satisfied. Despite the wintery weather visitors flocked to the exhibition centre
in droves. We are delighted to report numerous new contacts and customers
as well as a pleasing amount of ordering activity. The marked increase in the
number of foreign trade visitors is another important component for the fair's
enduring and sustainable success."
A total of 142,000 visitors came to the metropolis on the banks of the
Rhine. With foreign visitors accounting for a share of 42% (based on the
trade visitor days), the imm cologne and LivingKitchen were once again very
international trade shows. On the one hand there were considerably more
buyers from Europe, especially from the Russian Federation and traditionally
strong countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Italy and Switzerland,
on the other hand there was also a marked rise in the number of visitors from
Asia and especially from China.
The Public Days were also very well attended. Around 43,000 consumers
came in search of inspiration from the furnishing worlds on show. "We're
delighted that the imm cologne and LivingKitchen met with such great
interest from consumers too. This good result is due in no small part to the
way the concept behind the trade fair duo has been expanded. We want
to build on this success and increase the attractiveness of our fairs from year
to year," said Katharina C. Hamma, Chief Operating Officer at Koelnmesse.
The next trade fair duo imm cologne // LivingInteriors will be held
from 13th to 19th January 2014. Many more details are available at:
www.imm-cologne.com
Wellenmbel
Arte M making rooms
PAIDI
55
SHOWREVIEW
DOMOTEX the flooring industrys
Flooring Deluxe
Flooring Deluxe
Flooring Deluxe,
PATTERN INTERVENTION by
Baltic Wood S.A. (Poland),
Mark Braun Studio (Berlin, Germany)
Photos courtesy of Deutsche Messe
DOMOTEX has once again delivered proof of its great international appeal
and its pivotal role as the flooring industrys flagship fair, remarked Dr. Jochen
Kckler, Member of the Deutsche Messe AG Managing Board, at the close of the
event. 40,000 visitors from over 80 nations came to discover the latest product
innovations and trends for the upcoming season. This constitutes a slight rise
in attendance over 2011 as the most recent comparable staging of the event.
Kckler continued: Our exhibitors succeeded in reaching their international
clientele and laying the groundwork for the business year ahead. DOMOTEX
thoroughly fulfilled its function as a unique business platform and an idea-giver
for the international carpet and floor coverings industry.
1,350 enterprises from 60 nations presented their latest products and collections, including carpets, textile floor coverings, resilient floor coverings, parquet
flooring and laminated coverings as well as installation, cleaning and application
technologies. This year the industry stressed bold colours and daring designs.
The time when floors played a subordinate role to interior furnishings is over. The
current diversity of materials, colours and designs is unlimited, making floors an
interior design object a trend which was clearly visible throughout the exhibition halls, stated Kckler.
High satisfaction among exhibitors and visitors
Exhibitors praised the highly international diversity of the shows attendees, with
more than 60 per cent coming from abroad. Half were from European countries
other than Germany, while 21 per cent came from Asia and 11 per cent from the
Americas. A gratifying jump in attendance was registered from North America
as well as South, East and Central Asia. Visitors professional qualifications and
decision-making authority were compelling across the board. More than 90 per
cent of all attendees reported being directly involved in their companies purchasing decisions. If you want to cultivate international contacts and tap into
new markets, you cant afford to miss out on DOMOTEX. This is where companies
can meet up with potential business partners from every corner of the globe,
continued Kckler. The shows attendees once again consisted primarily of
wholesale and specialised retail buyers, at 30 per cent and 20 per cent, respectively. Skilled tradespeople, buyers from interior design and furniture stores as well
as architects also used DOMOTEX 2013 to check out the latest market offerings.
Kcklers appraisal was echoed by Joe Williams, Vice President of International Sales for Beaulieu of America (based in Dalton, Georgia): DOMOTEX is
the biggest global trade fair of its kind, and that is what makes it so important to
us. Here we can get in touch with buyers from the Middle East, Africa, Asia and
Europe. Beaulieu of America benefits from the special drive emanating from
56
SHOWREVIEW
flagship fair gets business off to a solid start in 2013
Resilient floor coverings
Wood and parquet flooring
Laying skills, cleaning and application

technologies, presentation of goods
Photos courtesy of Deutsche Messe
DOMOTEX Hannover, which sets it apart from other tradeshows.

Geert Vanden Bossche, Marketing Director of the Balta Group (based in SintBaafs-Vijve, Belgium), added: For us, being at DOMOTEX is important because
we can see about 90 per cent of our customers here in just four days. The shows
stand-out virtues are its size and the large number of attendees. Beyond that,
the DOMOTEX brand stands for a 20-year tradition of excellence which inspires
trust and draws in the crowds.
The SKILLED TRADES HUB: Home base for floor-laying professionals
A first at this years DOMOTEX was the new SKILLED TRADES HUB, where visiting
floor-laying practitioners could find everything of value to them at one convenient
location in Hall 7. Here they were able to try out machines and tools and plug
into valuable know-how as presented by big-name solution providers. Our goal
was to give the skilled trades a home base of their own at DOMOTEX, and we
succeeded, concluded Kckler. The SKILLED TRADES HUB served as a central
rendezvous for parquet and floor layers, interior decorators, painters and carpenters. Skilled tradespeople accounted for 20 per cent of all DOMOTEX visitors.
DOMOTEX 2014 to feature Wood Flooring Summit
Originally debuting at DOMOTEX 2012, the Wood Flooring Summit for the parquet
and laminate flooring segment is scheduled to return at the next DOMOTEX,
which will be staged from 11 to 14 January 2014. We are already in close communication with the relevant industry associations and market players to ensure
we can build on the success achieved by the inaugural event, stated Kckler.
DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR, DOMOTEX Middle East and DOMOTEX

Russia
Deutsche Messe is also represented in the worlds fast-growing markets with

its global array DOMOTEX events, opening the door to even more new
opportunities for companies from the carpet and floor coverings sector. From
26 to 28 March 2013, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR will be staged in Shanghai.
DOMOTEX Russia will take place from 25 to 27 September 2013 in Moscow.
And from 7 to 10 November 2013, Istanbul will be the venue for DOMOTEX
Middle East.
57
SHOWREVIEW
Orgatec:
European
office furniture
The heart of
design
By Kenn Bush
Europes foremost office and contract furniture event happens every other October in Koeln, Germany. Very
well organised around major trend themes, the event has a growing international fan base that attends to
absorb the latest global design and technology concepts.
This year there was a marked emphasis on acoustics, comfort, and generally making the workplace
a kinder, gentler environment. There were also many companies working and playing with materials and
form in the pursuit of fresh design.
Here youll find a few of our many discoveries in Koeln.
Warm quiet cork tables and partitions

Vitra, based in Switzerland, had the show buzzing with its
cork worktables and dividers, designed Ronan & Erwan
Bouroullec. The company prides itself on its design and
environmental innovations, making the choice cork
double-edged: naturally grown and sustainable, with
warmth and sound-buffering properties, along with its
warmth, cork works to mellow a busy workspace.
Vitras cork
worktables
and dividers
58
Haworth: think, see, do, connect...and

relax
Haworth created an environment at the

Orgatec show to demonstrate a variety of
collaborative work settings, themed Think
See Do Connect, says Kurt Vander Schuur,
corporate brand director.
With the launch of Workware, Haworth
displayed integrated technology solutions
from training and desking to meeting and
hospitality throughout the stand. And, (Calm)
space was introduced to offer a relaxation
retreat within work settings.
Orgatec is a great place to share knowledge from Haworth's global network, says
Vander Schuur.
Haworth worked with the designer MarieVirginie Berbet to create a kind of revolution
in companies. Haworth introduces (Calm)
space, a regenerating power nap capsule at
Orgatec 2012. The user chooses a duration for
the power nap and the pod then uses a preset
sound and light cycle to gently send him off
to sleep and wake him up.
Haworths
(Calm) space
The classic Shetland rocker or bench:

Haworths casual, playful and interactive
seating option for impromptu collaboration.
Created by the Haworth Design Studio, it is
light weight, informal, easily reconfigurable
low seating. Shetland encourages multiple,
comfortable postures, allowing the body to
move and interact. Created in wood plyform
with walnut veneer or white painted plyform
and accented with wool and leather saddle
accessories, Shetland allows designers and
architects to create iconic spaces when
casual seating is needed for collaboration,
interaction and minimal guest seating.
Shetland bench
59
SHOWREVIEW
S
HOWREVIEW
PANELS
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Profile, design by Vladimir

Kuzmin. Carbon fiber is
pricey, difficult to work
with, but no other material
has its combination of
strength and beauty.
Furniture concepts from Moscows top architects
Lets say you ran one of Russias premier commercial outfitters, with a prestigious
list of clients that includes Google Russia, Microsoft, Nokia, and you specialise in built-in architectural treatments and
reception desks. And you wanted to make a splash with furniture concepts at Europes premier office furniture event.
What would you do? Why, youd give five of Moscows top architects carte blanche, with a commitment to engineer and show immaculate prototypes, and to produce the pieces to order.
Nayada, the shows only Russian exhibitor, presented the first part of its innovative project, 12 Architects. Offices
Project. At nine months old, the project is only half realised. The final collection will include seven additional architects
from around the world. Plans are to show all 12 concepts at the Milan Furniture Fair in April 2013.
Even though these are only prototypes, several people have asked to purchase them immediately, says Dmitry
Cherepkov, president of the Nayada Group. In truth, we are still developing them. Some of the materials, like the
carbon fiber and the layered veneers, require very special handling.
Victoria, inspired by Victoria Falls,

realised in a rich walnut with clear
acrylic strips in the desk.
Although not part of the 12 Architects

project, Nayadas floating eclectic privacy
panels also serve as legs for this task table.
60
EVENTS
CALENDAR 2013
JANUARY
Start Date
End Date
Event
City
12-Jan
15-Jan
Domotex
Hannover
14-Jan
17-Jan
20-Jan
20-Jan
imm Cologne
ZOW Istanbul
Cologne
Istanbul
28-Jan
29-Jan
31-Jan
2-Feb
SURFACES
IMOB 2013
Las Vegas
Istanbul
31-Jan
3-Feb
DelhiWood 2013
Delhi
18-Feb
21-Feb
ZOW Bad Salzuflen
Bad Salzufen
5-Mar
5-Mar
8-Mar
9-Mar
Woodmac China
MIFF
Shanghai
Kuala Lumpur
6-Mar
7-Mar
10-Mar
10-Mar
EFE
Build+Dcor
Selangor
Beijing
11-Mar
14-Mar
IFFS / AFS 2013
Singapore
11-Mar
11-Mar
13-Mar
14-Mar
14-Mar
17-Mar
IFFINA
VIFA 2013
TIFF 2013
Jakarta
Saigon
Bangkok
17-Mar
26-Mar
27-Mar
20-Mar
28-Mar
30-Mar
The Big Show

Domotex Asia/ChinaFloor
Interzum Guangzhou
Muscat
Shanghai
Guangzhou
9-Apr
11-Apr
Dubai Woodshow
Dubai
6-May
9-May
Project Qatar
Doha
6-May
7-May
10-May
9-May
LIGNA
gulf BID
Hannover
Manama
13-May
16-May
interzum Cologne
Cologne
20-May
23-May
23-May
25-May
INDEX Dubai
IFMAC
Dubai
Jakarta
6-Jun
13-Jun
20-Jun
9-Jun
16-Jun
22-Jun
China Furniture & Woodworks

Wood Tech India
Furnitech Woodtech
Dalian
Mumbia
Bangkok
21-Aug
24-Aug
Aseanwood Woodtech
Kuala Lumpur
11-Sep
13-Sep
The Flooring Show Asia
Singapore
11-Sep
14-Sep
FMC Shanghai
Shanghai
13-Sep
25-Sep
16-Sep
28-Sep
Southeast Asia Furniture & Interiors Import-Export Exhibition (SEAFIE)

VietnamWood
Kuala Lumpur
Ho Chi Minh
1-Oct
3-Oct
Mumbai Wood
Mumbai
2-Oct
4-Oct
NHLA Convention
Texas
5-Oct
9-Oct
Intermob Turkey
Istanbul
FEBRUARY
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
JUNE
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
62
8-Nov
11-Nov
DOMOTEX Middle East
Istanbul
11-Nov
14-Nov
Indonesia Woodshow
Jakarta
14-Nov
17-Nov
Index
Mumbai
15-Nov
25-Nov
18-Nov
28-Nov
MyanmarWood
The Big 5 Show
Yangon
Dubai
If you would like to add your event to our

calendar, please contact Ms. Denice Cabel
(denice@pabloasia.com).
Country
Organiser
Website
Germany
Deutsche Messe AG
www.domotex.de
Germany
Turkey
Koelnmesse GmbH
Clarion SURVEY GmbH
www.imm-cologne.de
www.zow.com.tr
USA
Turkey
Hanley Wood LLC

ITE Turkey
www.surfaces.com
www.itf-imob.com
India
PDA Trade Fairs
www.delhi-wood.com
Germany
Clarion SURVEY GmbH
www.zow.de
China
Malaysia
Deutsche Messe
United Business Media (M) Sdn Bhd
www.woodmacchina.net
www.miff.com.my
Malaysia
China
EFE Expo Sdn Bhd

China B & D Exhibition Co. Ltd.
www.efe.net.my
www.builddecor.com
Singapore
International Furniture Fair Singapore Pte Ltd
www.iffs.com.sg
Indonesia
Vietnam
Thailand
www.iffina-indonesia.com
www.vifafair.com
Oman
China
China
PT. Kerabat Dyan Utama (Radyatama)

Handicraft & Wood Industry Association of HCMC
Royal Thai Government, Office of Export
Promotion Activities
Omanexpo
Deutsche Messe AG
Koelnmesse Pte Ltd
UAE
Strategic Marketing & Exhibitions
www.dubaiwoodshow.com
Qatar
IFP Group
www.projectqatar.com
Germany
Bahrain
Deutsche Messe
Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions
www.ligna.de
www.gulfbidexhibition.com
Germany
Koelnmesse
www.interzum.com
UAE
Indonesia
dmg :: events
Wakeni Kaigo
www.indexexhibition.com
www.ifmac.net
China
India
Thailand
Dalian Northern Intl Exhibitions Limited Company

Business LIV
Reed Tradex
www.sinoexhibition.com
www.woodtechindia.in
www.furnitechwoodtech.com
Malaysia
Trade-Link Management Services Sdn Bhd
tradelink.com.my/woodtech
Singapore
ORIEL Events
www.theflooringshow.asia
China
Shanghai UBM Sinoexpo International

Exhibition Co., Ltd
www.fmcchina.com.cn
Malaysia
Vietnam
UBM
Chan Chao International Co., Ltd
www.seafie.com
www.vietnamwoodexpo.com
India
PDA Trade Fairs
www.mumbai-wood.com
USA
National Hardwood Lumber Association
www.nhla.com/convention
Turkey
TYAP Fair Convention and Congress Centre
www.intermobistanbul.com
Turkey
Deutsche Messe
www.domotex-middle-east.com
Indonesia
Strategic
www.indonesiawoodshow.com
India
Index Trade Fairs
www.indexfairs.com
Myanmar
UAE
Yorkers Trade & Marketing Service Co., Ltd

dmg events
www.myanmar-expo.com
www.thebig5.ae
www.thailandfurniturefair.com
www.thebigshow-oman.com
www.domotexasiachinafloor.com
www.interzum-guangzhou.com
63
Innovative steel belts from

Berndorf Band increase productivity
What Bear discovered:

Visit us at:
WoodMac China, Shanghai

Special steel belt characteristics,
customized for the new generation
of presses offer:
March 5 - 8, 2013
Hall 5 Booth 5D01
improved running properties

greater thermal capacity
enhanced resistance to deformation
Detailed information at
www.berndorf-band.at
Berndorf Band GmbH

A-2560 Berndorf
Austria
Phone: (+43)2672-800-0
Fax:
(+43)2672-84176
band@berndorf.co.at

January February 2013

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MICA (P) No: 090/02/2012 ISSN: 0219-5704 KDN: PPS 1453/11/2012(022879) www.panelsfurnitureasia.

com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013

Cherry - the warmest

Cover: Photo Michael Buckley

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

Happy New Year everyone! 2012 was a very fulfilling

Singapore MICA (P) No. 090/02/2012

PAB LO P U B LISH I NG PTE LTD

Panels & Furniture Asia

All rights reserved. Views of writers do not necessarily reflect the

Malaysian MDF Manufacturers Association

PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA

The office of an eccentric

Photos by Kenn Busch

Early tones and organic forms in

The Evolution in Press Technologyy

Perfect board tolerances (down to +/- 0,05 mm)

THE MALAYSIAN MDF MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION (MMMA)