KITCHENER – The Ontario government is investing over $1 million in Distinctive Wood Products, a manufacturer of kitchen cabinets and accessories. This investment will increase production by 40 per cent, boost U.S. export sales by almost 300 per cent and create nine new jobs at the company – and up to nine additional jobs throughout the forest sector supply chain.
“We are investing in businesses like Distinctive Wood Products to create jobs and strengthen our forest sector supply chain,” said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry. “This is good news for the Kitchener-Waterloo region, for Ontario’s forest sector and for consumers on both sides of the border who will enjoy greater access to high-quality cabinets and accessories.”
[1/2] Was joined by MPPs @mikeharrisjrpc, Jess Dixon and @BR4CambridgePC in Kitchener this afternoon to announce a $1M+ investment in Distinctive Wood Products, aiming to increase production and create more jobs. pic.twitter.com/YuksRZ5iMm
— Graydon Smith (@GraydonTheMPP) December 13, 2023
The total expansion project is valued at $4.4 million and will now add automated sanding equipment and a finishing system which hardens paint to prepare completed products for market. This investment will increase production capacity, reducing waste and allow Distinctive Wood Products to fulfill orders more quickly. The improvements are expected to boost the company’s revenue by 56 per cent.
To ramp up production, Distinctive Wood Products will increase its purchases of Ontario-made medium density fibreboard by 55 per cent, increasing demand for harvesting companies, sawmills and trucking – adding $4.3 million to Ontario’s forest supply chain each year.
Funding for this project is being provided through the Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program, a business support program designed to improve productivity and innovation, enhance competitiveness, support new market access and strengthen regional economies.
Projects like this, which build a more competitive forest sector through technological innovation, are critical to achieving Ontario’s goals in Sustainable Growth: Ontario’s Forest Sector Strategy and the Forest Biomass Action Plan.
Quick Facts
- Distinctive Wood Products was founded in the early nineties and currently employs 65 workers across three facilities in Kitchener. The company sells its premium custom cabinet parts to commercial and residential manufacturers, home builders and kitchen cabinet companies.
- The forest sector generated $20.9 billion in revenue from the sale of manufactured goods and services in 2021 and supported more than 142,000 direct and indirect jobs in 2022.
- Wood produced from Ontario’s Crown forests is sustainably sourced and renewable. Wood is a renewable resource, a clean energy source, and a sustainable – and biodegradable – alternative to single-use plastics.
Quotes
“This investment will directly stimulate both Ontario’s forestry and manufacturing sectors, while boosting our exports to the U.S. market. By investing in the latest equipment and production methods through the Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program, we’re helping companies like Distinctive Wood Products scale-up and grow sustainably and efficiently.”
– Vic Fedeli
Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade
“Custom cabinetry, especially pre-coated cabinetry, is a huge part of the home building and renovation industry. Through our government’s investment in Distinctive Wood Products, we are helping to create more jobs and supporting the local economy, right here in Kitchener-Waterloo.”
– Jess Dixon
MPP for Kitchener South – Hespeler
“With a rich history dating back to 1992, our company has benefited from strategic investments, unwavering dedication to on-time quality products and service excellence. We have had decades-long partnerships and collaborations with our clients as a result. This support is a testament to the importance of partnerships and collaboration in fostering business growth. We look forward to continuing to invest in our company, serving our valued clients, and contributing to the prosperity of the communities we serve.”
– Alan Lever and Steve Luengo
Co-Chairs and Owners, Distinctive Wood Products
SOURCE Province of Ontario
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