Canfor to build US$120 million sawmill in Washington, Georgia

Canfor Corporation announced the construction of a new sawmill in Washington, Georgia. The new sawmill, which will cost approximately US$120 million and have a production capacity of 275 million board feet, will employ best-in-class mill technology, capitalizing on an excellent fibre resource in the region to produce high-value dimension and specialty lumber products. Strategically located near the Company’s existing glulam facility in Washington and the larger population centers in Athens and Augusta, the new mill will be able to draw on a strong and skilled employee base.

Construction will commence in the second quarter of 2018, with the official start-up projected for the third quarter of 2019. At full run rates, assuming 2017 market pricing, the sawmill is forecast to generate annual EBITDA of approximately US$35 million.

“This new mill supports our growth strategy and will provide strong economic returns over the cycle,” said Canfor‘s President and CEO, Don Kayne. “We are pleased to expand our presence in the community of Washington and look forward to providing additional high value products to our global customers”

Update: Canfor Corporation has released later an update that company has been advised by the contractor selected to build the greenfield mill in Washington, Georgia of a potential previous commitment that may prevent their construction of the facility. The Company is working to rectify the situation but may encounter delays relative to the construction schedule provided in news release.