EDMONTON – Millar Western Forest Products continues its growth strategy with the acquisition of Spruceland Millworks Inc. Millar Western has acquired all shares of the company, its manufacturing operations in Acheson, Alberta, and its woodlands assets. The transaction brings together two companies that have enjoyed a productive business relationship for decades.
Spruceland Millworks is a value-added manufacturer and international distributor of SPF wood products. Started in 1982 by Ben Sawatzky with a simple table saw and a second-hand forklift, the company has grown to become a “go-to” supplier for its customers in the region, says Millar Western. Spruceland has more than 100 employees and operates a 130,000-square foot manufacturing facility.
“For the past 35 years, Spruceland Millworks has been a leader in Alberta’s value-added wood products sector, developing new products and building new markets in Canada, the U.S. and overseas,” said Craig Armstrong, president and CEO of Millar Western. “Through most of those years, Millar Western has been Spruceland’s largest supplier of raw material. We look forward to working in even closer partnership with Spruceland leadership to continue the advancement of this dynamic business.”
This transaction will integrate Millar Western’s existing sawmill operations with Spruceland’s value-added manufacturing capabilities. Spruceland will operate as a division of Millar Western under its existing management team and brand.
Ben Sawatzky, CEO of Spruceland Millworks, commented that the two companies share a family-business background and a common approach to management. “With their long history in Alberta, strong core values, proven ability in sustainable forest management, commitment to the value-added sector and reputation as a good employer, Millar Western is ideally suited to assist Spruceland in its next phase of growth.”
Headquartered in Edmonton, Millar Western produces SPF and aspen lumber, pulp and bioenergy at facilities in Whitecourt and Fox Creek, Alta.