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AFPA reports 7.7% growth in 2014

June 8, 2015 – The latest numbers indicate that Alberta’s forest industry is continuing to grow and contribute to the province’s economic diversity. Values of lumber, pulp and paper, and panelboard manufactured by Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) members totalled $2.9 billion in 2014. The numbers reflect a 7.7 per cent increase from 2013. Industry growth was fuelled by a 12 per cent increase in revenue from lumber sales and 6.0 per cent increase in pulp sales.

“2014 was a very solid year for our industry,” said AFPA president and CEO Paul Whittaker. “Strong sales for our members meant significant investment into employees, communities, and capital projects.” 

Whittaker noted that while prices have begun to soften during the first part of 2015, future prospects are strong. 

“Housing starts in the U.S. are projected to rise in late 2015 and early 2016,” he said. “We’re also hoping that Asian markets will continue to increase the use of wood, pulp, and newsprint. These factors should mean continued growth for our sector.”

Alberta’s forest industry is a significant contributor to 50 Alberta communities. The industry has invested in future sustainability through market diversification initiatives and capital projects. These include an increased focus on Asian market development and investments to generate electricity from renewable forestry biomass.

The industry’s continued growth also means strong demands for skilled workers, particularly in the trades. For more information on forestry careers, please visit workwild.ca. More information can be found on our website at albertaforestproducts.ca.

The Alberta Forest Products Association is a private, non-profit industry organization, representing lumber, panelboard, pulp and paper, and secondary manufacturing wood products companies operating in Alberta. AFPA member companies are active participants in sustainability advancements that contribute economic, environmental, and social benefits for Albertans.

June 8, 2015  By Alberta Forest Products Association