International Wood Magazine

From the Forest

By Hugh Reitz2 min read
Headshot of a smiling man in a gray blazer and blue patterned shirt against a white paneled background.
A portrait featured in the International Wood 2020 issue accompanying the From the Forest article.

From the Forest

Welcome to the 17th edition of the International Wood Products Association’s (IWPA) flagship International Wood Magazine & Buyers Guide. As International Wood is published once each year, it was clear from the beginning that this year’s edition would delve into the many ways designers and architects are using breathtaking natural woods as they are impacted by and responding to many of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This year we highlight beautiful performance spaces that temporarily stand empty and travel destinations that we can’t wait to return to, to handmade pieces that help us connect with the outdoors in a healthy and responsible way.

International Wood is designed to serve as THE wood sourcing tool for designers, builders, and manufacturers interested in sourcing wood products from around the world. After learning about how the most beautiful and capable woods are used in the projects highlighted in this year’s articles, readers can turn to our industry-standard Buyers Guide, which directly connects specifiers with suppliers that can help them source all of the most beautiful and highest performance wood products from around the world. We are also excited that this year’s magazine is paired for the first time with an enhanced digital edition of International Wood that includes even more exciting interactive content as well as special digital advertisements that connect readers more directly with the companies that make our magazine possible.

This beautiful magazine is one of many tools that we at IWPA use to advance our mission: to build acceptance and demand in North America for globally-sourced wood products from sustainably managed forests. IWPA’s efforts to advance its mission help the wood products industry in North America serve its customers while also supporting the economic health of communities that rely on forestry for their livelihoods around the globe.

As you learn more about the value that IWPA provides, I am hopeful that you will consider joining us next spring for the 65th Annual World of Wood Convention from April 14-16, 2021, in the heart of San Diego’s bustling Gaslamp District at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego. We look forward to hosting a full schedule of world-class speakers, panel discussions, and networking events that will provide attendees with critical insight and intelligence in a safe and healthy environment.

As IWPA’s President, I would also like to thank IWPA’s members, Board of Directors, and staff for all they have done quickly, pivoting to online and digital solutions to ensure that our industry is able to respond to all of the challenges that have emerged in 2020. If you have any questions about globally-sourced wood products or how our association and its members can help you select the highest quality wood products that can make your dream project a reality, please reach out today!

Sincerely,

Handwritten signature in black ink on white background

Hugh Reitz • IWPA President 2020-2021 • UCS Forest Group of Companies

Frequently asked questions

What is the International Wood Products Association's mission?+

IWPA's mission is to build acceptance and demand in North America for globally-sourced wood products from sustainably managed forests. This supports the wood products industry in North America as well as forestry-dependent communities around the globe.

How often is International Wood Magazine & Buyers Guide published?+

International Wood Magazine & Buyers Guide is published once each year. The current edition is the 17th.

How does the International Wood Buyers Guide help designers source wood?+

The industry-standard Buyers Guide directly connects specifiers with suppliers that can help them source beautiful, high-performance wood products from around the world. It is designed to serve as the wood sourcing tool for designers, builders, and manufacturers.

When and where is IWPA's 2021 World of Wood Convention being held?+

The 65th Annual World of Wood Convention is scheduled for April 14-16, 2021, in San Diego's Gaslamp District at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego. The schedule includes world-class speakers, panel discussions, and networking events.

What new feature was added to International Wood Magazine this year?+

For the first time, the print magazine is paired with an enhanced digital edition that includes interactive content and special digital advertisements. These features connect readers more directly with the companies featured in the magazine.

Who is the 2020-2021 President of IWPA?+

Hugh Reitz of UCS Forest Group of Companies is serving as IWPA President for 2020-2021.