IWPA Annual Convention
IWPA World of Wood Convention Connects, Informs Business
The International Wood Products Association (IWPA) April 28-30, 2010 convention in Miami Beach, Florida drew nearly 300 industry leaders from more than 30 countries. Speakers provided detailed information on compliance with the Lacey Act and new Customs Classification rulings. Attendees also heard detailed economic and market projections for homebuilding, flooring and architectural woodworking.
Delegations from Ghana, Guyana and Malaysia made captivating presentations on the extensive initiatives these countries have undertaken to provide importers assurances on the legality of forest products from their countries. These delegations were joined by a number of other delegations from around the world who participated actively in networking and question and answer sessions.
Scott Beggs, IWPA President said, “It was a joy to see such great enthusiasm. The large and strong overseas delegations, in total representing more than 30 countries, led to strong business conversations and new business relationships. This convention served as a prime example for how IWPA is an excellent tool allowing importers to expand their business while at the same time staying in tune with changing laws and regulations. I’m pleased so many people took advantage of it this year.”
Beggs continued, “A top agenda item for our business meeting was announcing the winners of our new Awards Program. These companies provided stunning examples for how imported wood products are supporting innovation throughout the supply chain, advancing environmental excellence and expanding design possibilities. We have a fantastic story to share for how an architect or designer’s specification of imported wood products leads to sustainable forest management in our world’s great forests and supports job creation and growth here in the U.S.”
Mr. Beggs as Immediate Past-President handed the gavel to Chris Paras, Vice President Procurement, Forest Products at The Penrod Company, who is IWPA’s newly elected President. Joining Mr. Paras on IWPA’s executive committee are Vice President, Alan McIlvain, Alan McIlvain Company; Treasurer, Warren Spitz, UCS Global; and two Board Representatives, David Weed, Robert Weed Plywood and Chris Connelly, Wood Brokerage International.
What They Said
"IWPA provides a knowledgeable forum for North American businesses and overseas suppliers to discuss current issues such as the Lacey Act, CTPAT, LEED and CARB. The IWPA convention typically includes top notch speakers that have experience, expertise and vision about all current topics.” John Hedin • VP International • Columbia Forest Products • Greensboro, North Carolina
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