Building Products

Sector Structure

Size: Manitoba’s building products industry generates $1.4 billion in sales annually and employs 13,000 persons. It is export oriented, with the majority of building products shipped to the principal markets of the United States, Europe and Japan.

Dominant Activities: Converted wood products and furniture manufacturing.

Structure & Concentration:

• The Converted Wood Products sector is comprised of approximately 290 firms that employ 8,700 people, and which generate approximately $950 million in revenues, $650 million of which is exported.

• The Furniture sector is comprised of 35 firms that employ 4,300 people, and which generate approximately $425 million in revenues, $325 million of which is exported.

Highlights:

Manitoba is home to the largest Canadian kitchen cabinet manufacturer, Kitchen Craft Cabinetry, and the two largest Canadian window and door manufacturers, Loewen Windows and Willmar Windows. Winnipeg-based Palliser Furniture is Canada's largest furniture manufacturer.

Sector Capabilities

• Manufactured housing
• Log homes
• Windows and doors
• Building components
• Architectural millwork
• Cabinetry

Competitive Strengths

• Product design and engineering expertise -- Manitoba companies offer special expertise in cold-climate engineering and design, and R2000 construction technology.

Key Players

• Kitchen Craft of Canada Ltd.
• Loewen Windows
• Willmar Windows Ltd.
• Newton Enterprises Inc.
• Olympic Building Systems Ltd.

Contact

Mr. Peter Bowes,
Development Officer,
Manitoba Conservation
Phone: 204-945-7628
Fax: 204-945-2671
E-mail: peter.bowes@gov.mb.ca
Web: www.gov.mb.ca/conservation/forestry/

Related Links

• Manitoba Companies Directory
• Manitoba Business Facts
• Primary Wood Products Sector