Family Business First is a coalition of nearly 7,500 independently-owned hardwood and softwood lumber, plywood and specialty products manufacturers, forest products wholesalers/retailers, and allied business partners from throughout the nation. The coalition was formed in January 1995 for the purpose of helping meet America's growing demand for wood products, while maintaining healthy forests and stable communities through a strong independent forest products sector.
Most economists agree that small family owned businesses greatly contribute to the growth, strength and stability of our nationÆs economy. It is essential that legislative and regulatory reforms be focused on lifting the burden of big government from the shoulders of small business. Although the forest products industry is one of the most diverse and competitive manufacturing industries in America today, without such reforms, small family owned forest products businesses will continue to close their doors, further diminishing the diversity and competitiveness within our industry.
The impact of further losses of independent forest products manufacturers in America will include higher consumer prices for forest products, an increased reliance on imported wood and substitute products with their associated negative environmental impacts, and significant social and economic disruption in many rural communities all over the nation.
The Family Business First coalition is committed to strengthening small family owned forest products businesses while assuring forest management, healthy forests and stable rural communities.
Elizabeth Pease, National Hardwood Lumber Association: 901/377-1818
Debbie Burns, Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association: 404/361-1445
David Ford, Independent Forest Products Association: 503/224-5455.
or Email FBF@Woodcom.com
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