Industry Intelligence

Industry Facts

  • The Building Products industry employs 40,000 Albertans and enjoys 1200 dynamic and innovative companies.

  • Annual sales are about $8.9 Billion, with 44% in Non-Wood Building Products, 40% in Primary Forest Products and 16% in Secondary Wood Products.

  • Exports account for 30% of revenue with primary forest products accounting for more than 50% of these exports.

  • Alberta companies have also achieved success in exporting dimensional lumber, oriented strandboard (OSB), office furniture, medium density fibreboard, manufactured housing, Portland cement, and glass fibre insulation.

  • The industry's largest export markets are the United States and Europe, but the province is also seeking new export opportunities, especially in Japan, China, South Korea, and the Middle East for residential, commercial, and industrial building products.

  • Alberta's Top Building Products Exports include the following:

    • SPF (Spruce, Pine and Fir) dimensional softwood lumber
    • OSB (Oriented Strand Board)
    • Wooden office furniture
    • Glass fiber insulation
    • Prefabricated buildings
    • Metal furniture
    • Wooden bedroom furniture
    • MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
    • Plywood
    • Portland cement

Resources

  • Construction and Forestry News from the UK, June 2008
    Intelligence from the Canadian High Commission in the United Kingdom detailing industry trends, developments, forthcoming events and much more that will assist you in shaping your export development plans as they involve the UK market.

  • Innovate for the Future
    In the face of a changing economy, Alberta is shifting the way it does business. We’re adopting technology and working smarter and leaner than ever.

  • Opportunities for Canadian Wood Products in France
    This comprehensive market study of the housing industry in France illustrates how Canadian wood-frame construction can carve out an important place for itself in the French market.

  • Statistics and Publications
    Relevant information on Alberta’s economy and industrial sectors.

Date Updated: Jun 27, 2008
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