KREAMER, PA — After two years of rebuilding after its abrupt factory closure and change of ownership in 2019, Wood-Mode LLC has embarked on an 18-month, $4-million initiative that represents one of the largest strategic financial investments in the company’s history, corporate officials announced.
The company’s multi-faceted “Focus Forward Initiative” will result in factory improvements, production equipment upgrades, new cabinet styles, educational initiatives and an enhanced dealer marketing support program to support the Wood-Mode brand, the Kreamer, PA-based custom cabinet manufacturer said.
“This multi-pronged strategy touches every division and department and is designed to have lasting positive impact,” said Rod Hunter, Wood-Mode general manager. “This initiative is strategically designed so that ultimately our customers benefit, and our representatives, dealers and employees, succeed,” Hunter added.
Among the upgrades underway are a new factory-wide communications system, new HVAC and boiler equipment, a completely redesigned guest welcome center, new saw milling equipment, and a coating and finish system upgrade, Wood-Mode officials said.
In 2022, the finishing and clean room sections will see upgraded air cleaning equipment, and new plural component spraying equipment for improved consistency and waste reduction between setups, they added. A new veneer sanding system, taller cabinet press, and a new edge polishing system will also add new capabilities and enhance production time
Product development following this trend-forward approach will continue with new introductions throughout the end of the year and beyond, officials noted.
The company’s Focus Forward Initiative also restructures and reintroduces dealer programs that are primed to assist dealers in their sales efforts. These enhancements include marketing resources, sales literature, a new order placement system and a series of comprehensive dealer training opportunities, the company said.