The Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America (WMMA) and the Woodworking Machinery Industry Association (WMIA) will merge to create a new organization, the Wood Industry Association (WIA). The new group’s mission will be to promote the business interests of all those engaged in the manufacture and distribution of woodworking machinery and ancillary equipment in North America.
In a letter to its members, WMMA said”
“In April we reported that WMMA, WMIA, and Association of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers (AWFS) were discussing a possible merger, and at the Woodworking Industry Conference we hosted an open forum to answer questions and explain the due diligence process. Our leadership has continued those conversations and, after thorough consideration, believes that a merger between WMMA and Woodworking Machinery Industry Association is in the best interests of our members and the North American woodworking industry.”
“We will continue to own and manage the International Woodworking Fair (IWF) through our tenured IWF staff in Atlanta; and WIA will continue the tradition of hosting the Woodworking Industry Conference each spring.”
Potential benefits of the merger include:
- One unified voice for the wood machinery industry in North America.
- More resources to invest in member programs, safety standards and public policy.
- Expanded committee and volunteer opportunities.
- Greater efficiency through streamlined operations and fewer redundancies.
