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WEIMA June 2023 Leader
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Woodworking associations reach agreement to own IWF Atlanta

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WMMA president Marc Chappell, right, and WMIA President John Henderson during the IWF announcement. 

The Woodworking Machinery Industry Association (WMIA), the Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America (WMMA) and the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA) have announced an agreement for the purchase of AHFA’s ownership interest in the International Woodworking Fair (IWF) by WMIA and WMMA. The transaction is expected to close late this year following IWF 2012. In addition, WMIA and WMMA have entered into a new partnership agreement for the management and ownership of IWF.

The year 2012 signifies a long and formidable joint venture partnership between the AHFA, WMIA and WMMA for IWF. For the past 30 years the three associations have jointly operated one of the most successful trade shows in North America. The agreements confirm the intentions of the three associations to solidify the ownership and operation of the Western Hemisphere’s largest woodworking equipment trade fair, and their commitment to the woodworking industry as a whole. “We believe that IWF is an important part of the continued success of the woodworking industry”, said WMIA President, John Henderson. “Our decision is not only good for the thousands of woodworkers in North America and abroad who attend IWF, but also for the numerous companies that produce machinery, cutting tools and various supplies and exhibit at IWF.”

“The IWF is an important event that allows woodworkers the opportunity to see the suppliers they purchase their machinery and other products from - and ask them direct questions”, said WMMA President, Mark Chappell. “Attendees also see first hand new technology in action and new equipment being introduced to the marketplace; all in one location.” The IWF has a long history of bringing thousands of people together to share ideas, develop initiatives and witness the world’s best woodworking products.  “AHFA has enjoyed a long and productive partnership with the WMMA and WMIA. We know IWF will continue to be a vibrant and relevant event under their joint ownership”, said AHFA Vice Chairman and IWF Board member, Wyatt Bassett.

The IWF Fair will carry on the tradition set in place by the original three associations and yet change to answer the needs of today’s marketplace. The WMIA and the WMMA are excited about the future of the IWF, ready to join forces and are initiating plans to expand the size of the show for the betterment of the global industry.

"IWF is recognized as a global leader for shows in our industry." said Patrick LaFramboise, IWF president and CEO. "The International Woodworking Fair is the largest and best attended woodworking and wood processing trade show in the Americas with a qualified buying audience that is second to none. We will continue to build on that tradition in the years to come."

About The WMIA, AHFA and WMMA

The Woodworking Machinery Industry Association (WMIA) represents importers and distributors of woodworking machinery and ancillary equipment in North America. Founded in 1977, WMIA is the recognized voice of importers and distributors and a vital communications link between suppliers and the many manufacturers of wood products in North America. Members include firms that import and distribute industrial woodworking machinery. Members offer equipment, technologies and services that enable North American companies to compete profitably. WMIA also helps link equipment manufacturers with reliable U.S. importers and distributors.

The American Home Furnishings Alliance is based in High Point, N.C., and represents more than 200 leading home furnishings manufacturers and distributors, plus about 150 suppliers to the home furnishings industry worldwide.

The Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America (WMMA) has worked for over 110 years, to increase the productivity and profitability of U.S. woodworking machinery and woodworking tools manufacturers and the businesses that support them. Over that time, WMMA® has dedicated itself to the advancement of the U.S. woodworking industry and wood industry, with wood education, training, wood industry research, support of woodworking shows, and diverse member programs and services.

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