ROSEBURG, Ore. - Nordic Veneer Inc. announced Friday that it will permanently close its Roseburg-area operations, ending more than seven decades as a family-owned wood products manufacturer in Douglas County.

The company said the decision follows years of challenges facing the timber industry, including limited wood supply, shifting market conditions, industry realignment and foreign competition.

"After careful and difficult consideration, we have made the decision to close our operations," owner Art Adams said in a statement. "Despite our team's hard work, recent investments in efficiency, and deep commitment to this business, sustaining operations is no longer viable under current market conditions."

Founded in 1954 by Dick Adams and Norm Jacobsen, Nordic Veneer purchased the Perkins veneer plant in Dixonville in 1960. The company has remained under the ownership and leadership of the Adams family for four generations, producing veneer products and serving as a longtime employer in Douglas County.

The company did not immediately announce how many employees will be affected by the closure or when production will officially end.

Nordic Veneer said it is working with employees to provide transition assistance and job placement resources.

Beyond its manufacturing operations, the company has supported numerous community organizations over the years, including local hospitals, libraries, schools, health care organizations and nonprofit groups throughout the Umpqua Valley.

In a statement, the Adams family thanked employees, customers, suppliers and the Roseburg community for their support over the company's 72-year history.
 
Source: kpic.com