Newsletter

With just four months left in the working calendar year, September marks a critical time for your business as your teams push to complete projects before the New Year rolls around. This last quarter of 2026 is not the time to take your eyes off the prize. Now’s the time to lock in, communicate with your teams on their tasks and goals, coordinate with your vendors and suppliers, get proactive on any logistics issues, and manage any roadblocks that your installation teams encounter while on the job site. In this edition of The NFI Northstar, we’ll highlight several key steps you can and should take right now to optimize your business operations with four months left to go in the 2026 calendar year. Fall Season Construction Push: Why Planning Matters Take a step back and look at the big picture Think of your business operations like a chess board: What projects are close to completion that you can effectively wrap up this quarter? Are there any jobs facing major hurdles? Tackle them now before the year gets away from you. Is there a future project due to kick off this quarter? What’s the status as you approach kickoff? Having an understanding of the big picture can help you make decisions, adjust plans, or scrap what’s not working and pivot before it becomes a time suck. Check in with vendors & suppliers There’s a lot of international instability around the globe that’s been threatening shipping lanes, not to mention trade wars impacting the cost of goods, services, and fuel, which then causes project costs to spike. Now is a great time to be proactive: Contact your suppliers and vendors to check on shipments in transit, keep your job site teams informed of any critical updates, and try to find cost savings via other trading partners or domestic firms if possible. Touch base with your job site teams Communication is key—check in with your installation teams in the field to get ahead of any personnel and scheduling issues, ensure site readiness, and make sure they have everything they need to complete their outstanding Fall 2026 projects. Failing to plan means planning to fail, so this fall, make sure you have a plan in place to attack your seasonal projects and get them successfully completed before the year wraps. A little extra planning and coordination now can help you avoid installation delays and costly rework later on, especially if you’re managing multiple teams on tight project timelines. That’s why having reliable partners can be such a benefit during these year-end sprints to complete critical projects.   That’s it for this edition of The NFI Northstar. Thanks for reading! We’ll be back next month with more helpful industry news. Visit our website to learn more about Nationwide Fixture Installations, check out our Careers page to see our open positions, and if you’re ready to start your custom installation project, fill out our contact form. This is why…NFI. We install SATISFACTION! Follow Us On Social Media

In this edition of The NFI Northstar, we're focusing on the International Woodworking Fair (IWF) 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia on August 25-28. For those construction organizations specializing in millwork, casework, architectural woodworking, or custom installations, the triennial IWF 2026 is THE industry event on the calendar this year. The IWF brings together thousands of professionals from across the woodworking and construction ecosystem, including manufacturers, architects, designers, contractors, distributors, and installation specialists. But the IWF isn't just an opportunity to connect with the people shaping the direction of our industry—it's a massive brain trust of knowledge allowing attendees to explore the latest advancements in woodworking technology, automation, finishing systems, software, and production processes. Just as importantly, the trade event offers a firsthand look at emerging solutions that can improve quality and efficiency for your organization. Whether you’re looking for new partners, evaluating technologies, or simply keeping up with industry happenings, this event offers a valuable opportunity to learn, connect, and look ahead. If you’ll be in Atlanta, come visit us at booth C649. In the meantime, here's a selection of noteworthy panels to consider attending:   Tuesday, August 25 Smart Spending: Investing in Machinery That Delivers 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Presented by: Cabinet Makers Association (CMA) Before you drop serious dollars on your next piece of equipment, make sure it’s the right fit for your operation. [read more] AI + Automation: The Future of Woodworking Intelligence 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM Presented by: Cabinet Makers Association (CMA) Artificial Intelligence is transforming how woodshops quote, design, and manage production. [read more] Future-Proofing Wood Manufacturing: Quality, Efficiency & Sustainability in 2026 and Beyond 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Presented by: Burkle North America The woodworking industry is undergoing a major transformation as manufacturers face rising demands for quality, speed, labor efficiency, and sustainable practices. [read more] LEAN Bootcamp: Real-World Efficiency for Woodworkers 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM Presented by: Cabinet Makers Association (CMA) Forget theory—this is Lean the way it actually works in a small to mid-sized woodworking shop. [read more] Bulletproof Your Woodworking Business: Avoid Lawsuits, Slash Taxes, Build Wealth 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Presented by: American Society for Asset Protection Is your financial framework built to last, just like the products you manufacture? [read more] Build The Future: Introducing Students to the Woodworking Industry 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM Presented by: Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) It takes ALL of us working together to introduce students to woodworking industry careers. [read more]   Wednesday, August 26 Boutique Builds: High-End Projects for Smaller Shops 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Presented by: Cabinet Makers Association (CMA) You don’t need a massive operation to land luxury work. [read more] Nailed It: Strategies to Protect Your Woodworking Business and Cut Taxes 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Presented by: American Society for Asset Protection Is your woodworking business financially secure? [read more] The Business of Cabinets: Ever Wondered How Some Shops are Succeeding the Way They Are? 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Presented by: Northland Woodworks & Outlaw Woodworks Ever wondered how others are navigating the challenges of pricing, profits, and purchasing large equipment? [read more] Building America’s Skilled Future: A Blueprint for Strengthening CTE Pathways 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Presented by: National Woods Board (NWB) The skilled-trades workforce shortage isn’t coming—it’s already here. [read more]   Thursday, August 26 Workforce Wins: Recruitment, Retention, and Rebranding the Trades 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Presented by: Cabinet Makers Association (CMA) Attracting and keeping top talent remains one of the industry’s toughest challenges. [read more] Mastering Panel Installation: A Comparative Guide to Wall & Ceiling Mounting Methods 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Presented by: Fastmount This educational session will provide a comprehensive overview of the most common methods for installing wall and ceiling panels, including Z-clips, French cleats, adhesives, and advanced mounting systems. [read more] Revenue, Visibility, and AI: What Wood Industry Companies Need to Do Now 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Presented by: Woodworking Network Buyers are already using AI-powered tools to research machinery, materials, and vendors. Search results are changing, website traffic patterns are shifting, and marketing teams are under pressure to do more with less. [read more]   That’s it for this edition of The NFI Northstar. Thanks for reading! We’ll be back next month with more helpful industry news. Visit our website to learn more about Nationwide Fixture Installations, check out our Careers page to see our open positions, and if you’re ready to start your custom installation project, fill out our contact form. This is why…NFI. We install SATISFACTION! Follow Us On Social Media

In honor of our nation’s 250th anniversary celebration, The NFI Northstar wants to shine a spotlight on a host of positive U.S. news stories that have impacted the construction/carpentry/installation industry in 2026. Forget about market analyses, tariffs, and international instability for a second, and scroll through these feel-good U.S. construction-themed stories from 2026 so far. 2 World Trade Center breaks ground 25 years after 9/11 “Twenty-five years after the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, left a gaping void in Lower Manhattan, American Express broke ground Thursday on its new headquarters, a tiered glass and steel tower at 2 World Trade Center.” [read more] Big Tech Bets Billions on Skilled Trades to Power AI Boom “Big Tech and Wall Street are pouring hundreds of millions of dollars into training electricians, welders, plumbers and other skilled trades. These skilled laborers are necessary to build out infrastructure supporting the AI boom.” [read more] Netflix just hit major milestone on nearly $1 billion N.J. studio “As Netflix continues developing a major studio complex at Fort Monmouth, the streaming giant held a topping-off ceremony to celebrate the placement of the final structural beam of a dual sound stage. The beam installation on Stages 3 and 4 marked a major milestone in the nearly $1 billion project on the 292-acre site, which is slated to become the company’s flagship production facility on the East Coast.” [read more] The Billion‑Dollar Buildout: 8 Mega Hospital Projects Reshaping U.S. Healthcare in 2026 “Health systems across the U.S. are accelerating large‑scale construction as demand for capacity, specialty care, and modern infrastructure continues to rise. So far in 2026, eight organizations have announced, advanced, or completed hospital projects valued at $1 billion or more — a sign of sustained investment despite workforce pressures, inflation, and shifting reimbursement models.” [read more] The Massive U.S. Airport Expansion Projects That Will Reshape How America Flies “The United States is in the midst of a once-in-a-generation era of aviation mega projects. All across America, airports are undergoing massive overhauls and expansions to modernize as well as grow to meet the ever-increasing demand for air travel. The US network of civil airports is home to some of the oldest aerodromes in the world, as well as some of the busiest mega hubs in the global flying apparatus.” [read more] Universities launch major academic facility projects nationwide “Universities and community college executives are investing heavily in new academic facilities and modernized learning environments. Aging infrastructure, growing enrollment in many regions, and the need for more workforce-aligned programs are prompting institutions to rethink how campus space supports teaching, research, and student engagement.” [read more] Top U.S. Mega Construction Projects in 2026 “Several transformative megaprojects are shaping the U.S. landscape in 2026. These investments focus on advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and high-speed rail, leveraging billions in federal and private funding to modernize the nation's infrastructure and technological capabilities.” [read more] Major factory construction projects to watch in 2026 “Manufacturing construction spending in the U.S. has gone down after peaking in 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The latest report from E2 shows that in 2025, companies canceled over $32 billion worth of clean energy manufacturing projects due to reduced government incentives and funding cuts, as well as tariff policies. But, at the same time, some industry giants have significantly increased investment in the U.S.” [read more] Big Box Bonanza: Convention Centers Take Center Stage With $15+ Billion Development Boom “Convention centers have gone from big box to big development, with dozens of facilities under construction or in various stages of renovation and expansion across the U.S. with an estimated combined cost of some $15 billion.” [read more]   That’s it for this edition of The NFI Northstar. Thanks for reading! We’ll be back next month with more helpful industry news. Visit our website to learn more about Nationwide Fixture Installations, check out our Careers page to see our open positions, and if you’re ready to start your custom installation project, fill out our contact form. This is why…NFI. We install SATISFACTION! Follow Us On Social Media

Planning for construction projects in 2026 can test the mettle of even the most seasoned analysts, procurement experts, and supply chain specialists thanks to the cost volatility of materials that’s roiling international markets. Spurred by a combination of several international conflicts currently impacting trade routes, and a United States tariff strategy that’s hammering imported goods in many industries, the cost volatility for wood and other construction materials is negatively affecting project budgets and schedules for firms all over the U.S. In this edition of The NFI Northstar, we’ll take a look at some potential cost mitigation strategies firms can adopt to offset the volatility that’s affecting material prices. Hold the Line Doing nothing in the face of adversity is very much a strategy, but it’s definitely NOT going to save you any time or money on your projects. Some firms will just throw up their hands, embrace the suck of high tariffs for now, and pass those costs on to clients and customers like it’s business as usual. Rethink Your Procurement Strategies If you’ve been single sourcing your materials from international partners, consider exercising your options to see if finding additional wholesalers, manufacturers, or distributors closer to home to cut down on transportation costs and spread your risk around. Consider Operational Updates Trying to optimize your field operations is another potential strategy for mitigating your project costs: Streamline crew numbers when possible; make the switch to prefab materials versus field installs; be open to using new, alternative or unconventional materials where applicable; make active attempts to minimize waste on the job site; and recycle materials where you can. Even the best-running vehicles require regular tune-ups to keep things humming. Get it in Writing Make time to review your contracts, and consider adding safeguards such as escalation clauses and shorter bidding periods to help mitigate unexpected cost increases. Procrastinate a Little If project costs are spiraling out of control, consider talking to your partners about delaying or rescheduling projects to a later date. You may be able to lock in materials for less by waiting for the international tumult to die down and tariff strategies return to normal. Reading Resources Google’s A.I. Overview “Wood and construction material costs face significant volatility. Driven by restrictive trade policies (such as lumber and metal tariffs), tight labor supply, and lingering supply chain disruptions, builders are experiencing unpredictable price swings. This volatility forces firms to regularly adjust budgets, as sudden spikes threaten to cancel or postpone planned construction.” Commodity Price Volatility Hits Homebuilders as Tariffs Reshape Costs “Commodity price volatility – driven by slow demand and tariff fallout – has sharply increased the cost of building materials. The single most significant factor driving Q4 2025 commodity prices was aggressive tariff implementation: Steel: 50% tariffs (implemented June 2025) Aluminum: 50% tariffs (implemented June 2025) Copper: 50% tariffs on products/components (August 2025) Lumber: 35.2% total on Canadian imports (potentially rising to 45%) Cement/Concrete: 25% on Canadian/Mexican imports An AGC-NCCER survey found that 43% of general contractors reported at least one project canceled, postponed or scaled back in the past six months due to higher material costs driven by these tariffs.” Material Costs Affect Housing Affordability "It's important to note that while these strategies can help manage the impact of rising material costs, they won't completely eliminate the challenges. The construction industry will likely need to adapt to this new reality of higher material prices for the foreseeable future. This could involve things like rethinking project designs to be more cost-effective, finding new sources of funding to cover increased costs, and unfortunately, the inevitable passing of some of the increased costs onto customers through higher prices.” What the Data Says: Lumber Price Updates "After dipping for two straight quarters, lumber costs spike 5.11% in Q2 of 2026. Year-over-year prices are up 4.21%, the ninth straight quarter of year-over-year growth. Another increase may be on the horizon, but it is likely to stay in the single digits.”   That’s it for this edition of The NFI Northstar. Thanks for reading! We’ll be back next month with more helpful industry news. Visit our website to learn more about Nationwide Fixture Installations, check out our Careers page to see our open positions, and if you’re ready to start your custom installation project, fill out our contact form. This is why…NFI. We install SATISFACTION! Follow Us On Social Media

The 2026 edition of Shop! Marketplace (which focuses on developments in the physical retail industry) took place May 5-7 in New Orleans, and there were plenty of impactful developments taking shape in retail! If you couldn’t make it to the Big Easy for the big trade show, NFI has got you covered with a quick-hit round-up. These are some of the highlights to know about coming out of Shop! Marketplace 2026: The Shop! Association recognized the 2026 Outstanding Merchandising Achievement and Design Awards. Here’s a list of this year’s winners, plus a look at previous years. AI (Artificial Intelligence) also got its moment to shine in several exhibitions. Footwear & apparel giant PUMA rolled out its use of multilingual AI agents and digital human concierge services on the retail floor, which is positioned as an enhancement to the human touch and not a replacement for it. Another program offered ways to prevent ORC (Organized Retail Crime) by deploying invisible tech on the sales floor that still preserves the in-store customer experience. With worldwide supply issues, and tariff concerns still dominating the news cycle, sustainable material choices are a must to explore. Taylor Corporation took home an Outstanding Booth Award for its Substrate Materials Lab - a hands-on testing experience to showcase, compare, and test sustainable new construction materials, displays, and modular fixtures. Check out the agenda of speakers to find topics relevant to your specific industry, but make sure to check out the keynote address Retail Reset: Trends Shaping the Next Era of the Store by David Meyer (Design Lead, Target), Tiffany Pieja (Senior Manager, Permanent Merchandising, Hershey) and David Kepron (Retail Studio Principal, Little Diversified Architectural Consulting Inc.) To learn more about the 2026 edition of Shop! Marketplace, visit their official website PS - they’re already promoting the 2027 edition, with dates and location still TBD!   That’s it for this edition of The NFI Northstar. Thanks for reading! We’ll be back next month with more helpful industry news. Visit our website to learn more about Nationwide Fixture Installations, check out our Careers page to see our open positions, and if you’re ready to start your custom installation project, fill out our contact form. This is why…NFI. We install SATISFACTION! Follow Us On Social Media

It’s a rule that’s existed as long as natural history: Those that don’t adapt are doomed to extinction—and that applies to the construction industry, too. In the ever-evolving world of skilled trades, it’s essential for workers to stay engaged with their professional development, and keep pace with technological advances that can impact their career. If you want to future-proof your career, keep adding the required skills that make you a valuable contributor to any organization. If you’re a stakeholder or decision-maker in your organization, help keep your employees engaged by encouraging them to pursue professional development and training opportunities, and rewarding them when they complete their courses of study. Here’s a rundown of some steps you can take to increase engagement with your workers through skills training and professional development. 1. Recognize the Need for Skills Building For 99.99% of business owners, there’s a good chance that, at some point, some of your employees will require new or additional skills in order to perform their jobs—or take on new responsibilities that you couldn’t have foreseen 10 years ago. 2. Commit Resources Once you recognize the need for skills training among your employees, you can begin to formulate a plan and take action. Set aside a budget for training and professional development, if possible. Allow your employees time during their work day to attend classes, training sessions, or online seminars. Promote regular training and professional development opportunities at your business to keep workers engaged with their career—and your business. 3. Make Accommodations Provide space in your office for dedicated training. Let your employees use company computer equipment for learning sessions. Set aside dedicated time for them during their regular schedules to allow for learning during work hours. 4. Encourage Active Participation Inform employees that you’re committed to their professional development and training, and encourage them to learn new skills that will impact your business and their resume. 5. Incentivize Outcomes For employees who regularly engage with training opportunities and successfully complete them, treat them to a free lunch; give them a gift card; maybe a small bonus or bump in pay. If there’s a reward at the end of the rainbow, your workers are much more likely to engage with those training opportunities—it’s a win-win for all parties involved. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to engage with your employees over professional development and skilled training courses, NFI did the heavy lifting and sourced these free resources to get you started: Office Essentials: Microsoft Learn A.I.: Anthropic Claude Training Google AI Essentials SEO & Marketing: Yoast Academy HubSpot Academy CNC Machine Training: https://academy.titansofcnc.com/ https://www.americascuttingedge.org/ OSHA Training Modules: Aerial Scissor Lift Certification Forklift Certification Telehandler Certification Competent Person Certification Trade Schools: https://tradecolleges.org/ https://www.mfgcareers.org/mfg/includes/pdf/VocationalTechDatabase091715.pdf https://www.tradeschoolsnearme.co/all-schools LinkedIn Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/company/freeonlinecourseswithcertificates/ https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/free-courses-with-certificates-7009985296373039104/   Take a deeper dive into our sources: Three Benefits of Expanding Professional Development Opportunities in the Skilled Trades How Training Empowers Skilled Trades to Stay Ahead   That’s it for this edition of The NFI Northstar. Thanks for reading! We’ll be back next month with more helpful industry news. Visit our website to learn more about Nationwide Fixture Installations, check out our Careers page to see our open positions, and if you’re ready to start your custom installation project, fill out our contact form. This is why…NFI. We install SATISFACTION! Follow Us On Social Media

Members of the NFI team proudly attended EuroShop – The World’s No. 1 Retail Trade Fair, in Düsseldorf, Germany February 22-26. The triennial event marked Euroshop’s 60th anniversary, and drew an impressive crowd of exhibitors and visitors from all around the world. EuroShop 2026 by the numbers: 81,000+: Number of trade visitors to EuroShop 2026 (from 141 countries) 1,840: Number of exhibitors (from 61 countries) 14 Halls, 9 Special Areas, and 7 Distinctive Areas of Focus   Here are some top industry takeaways from EuroShop 2026: Focus on the Physical EuroShop produced a wrap-up video, in which one attendee states: “Physical retail is still here, and is showing up, and is very much alive,” while another mentioned, “The in-store experience is more than just another sales touchpoint now; we’re making things more experiential for in-store shoppers.” While online shopping can’t be beat for savings and convenience, in-store shopping still provides sensory and immediate immersive experiences and personal service. Experiential & Immersive Retail What does that look like when we talk about immersive retail experiences? Two EuroShop booths took that idea to its fullest potential: the “Shop! Village” and “Italian Lighting Lounge,” which really put the focus on the in-store customer experience thanks to their use of enhanced lighting, product placement, and visual design. Tech As Infrastructure In prior years, technology and artificial intelligence got all the headlines as disruptive forces in retail and shopfitting. At EuroShop 2026, technology and AI tools were still prominently on display, but with more and more firms concentrating on tech as a service to support the retail environment rather than displacing it. At EuroShop 2026, the focus was on tech and AI tools that support people, integrate easily into your SOPs, and enhance the in-store shopping experience. Checkout’s Not a Location, it’s a Vibe The EHI Retail Institute, a research and educational institute for the retail industry headquartered in Cologne, Germany, presented findings of a “Checkout Trends 2026” study live on the show floor at EuroShop 2026. According to EHI’s findings, retailers are moving on from the checkout section as a fixed point in stores. Instead, AI and tech tools have given rise to self-checkout, mobile payments, and hybrid retail concepts that require retailers and shopfitters to find solutions to operate everywhere on the store floor.   Take a deeper dive into our sources: EuroShop 2026 Roundup EuroShop 2026: Five Days of Retail Momentum Highlights from EuroShop, the World’s Biggest Retail Trade Fair EuroShop 2026 Press Material Live Reporting from EuroShop Trade Fair Celestra: Our EuropShop Roundup 2026 What I Saw in Dusseldorf and Why It Matters Right Now   That’s it for this edition of The NFI Northstar. Thanks for reading! We’ll be back next month with more helpful industry news. Visit our website to learn more about Nationwide Fixture Installations, check out our Careers page to see our open positions, and if you’re ready to start your custom installation project, fill out our contact form. This is why…NFI. We install SATISFACTION! Follow Us On Social Media

As the construction industry adopts more and more high-tech tools into everyday operations, it’s imperative that incoming and current workers keep pace with the skills required to be successful in “Industry 4.0”, the umbrella term adopted by industry experts when discussing technology and automation upgrades impacting manufacturing. New high-tech tool integration has become imperative to addressing the skilled labor shortage while also helping firms by improving production timelines, optimizing project workflows, and cutting down on wasted time and resources. But while technology, automation, and artificial intelligence tools can address some of the labor shortage issues in the construction industry, it also creates a need for more highly skilled workers who can adapt to using those tools proficiently. This need for tech-savvy skilled tradesmen has given rise to a new term to describe these workers: the digital craftsman. In this edition of the NFI Northstar, we’re looking at the areas of millwork production and installation that will be affected most by high-tech optimization. This blog at Bluentcad.com provided a perfect breakdown; here’s a look at some of the areas of traditional millwork manufacturing that are experiencing the biggest technological transformations. Building Information Modeling (BIM): Two-dimensional CAD (computer aided design) drawings become 3D smart models that help ensure smoother collaboration for stakeholders, real-time project updates, and clash detection for all the project’s trades. Cloud-Based Collaboration Platforms: When projects are executed using web-based tools, it allows teams in any location to connect remotely and work on the same files in real time from wherever they are. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Integration: Using AR and VR tools, clients can now immerse themselves into 3D environments before a project ever kicks off, enabling them to visualize millwork, casework, decor, and even furniture before fabrication begins. AI Drafting & Optimization Tools: AI-powered drafting tools can automate their own recurring tasks, check for errors, and suggest layouts while also providing annotations, quantity estimates, and precise measurements. AI Generative Millwork Design: AI software can generate custom millwork designs based on functionality, design aesthetic, and budget. Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) Integration & Automation: Millwork manufacturers can now automate tasks and move to “lights-out” (unsupervised) production when they integrate CAD files to CNC machines, which leads to faster production and higher quality. Speaking of those CNC machines, he high-tech revolution isn’t just occurring in the visualization and design space. There are already AI-powered and machine learning smart carpentry tools making an impact in the shop and on the jobsite. Here’s a selected rundown of just a few currently in-market. Harvey Alpha A-15 Bandsaw JET 20-Inch Smart Drill Press Shaper Origin Handheld CNC Router JJ Smith Robotic Sanding Solutions   Take a deeper dive into our sources: 9 Millwork Drafting Trends Digital transformation in the millwork industry 2026 AI Powered Smart Carpentry Tools   That’s it for this edition of The NFI Northstar. Thanks for reading! We’ll be back next month with more helpful industry news. Visit our website to learn more about Nationwide Fixture Installations, check out our Careers page to see our open positions, and if you’re ready to start your custom installation project, fill out our contact form. This is why…NFI. We install SATISFACTION! Follow Us On Social Media

The New Year has arrived, 2026 is in full swing, and there’s one huge question on the minds of everyone who works with millwork: What’s going on with the tariff situation? When the ball dropped on January 1, 2026, the New Year was supposed to trigger an increase in tariffs on wood cabinetry—the current rate of 25% was scheduled to increase to 50%. Instead, U.S. administration officials postponed that increase for one year, in order to allow all parties to continue working on trade negotiations. To complicate things further, the U.S. suggested the possibility of even more tariffs in an effort to gain leverage over the proposed Greenland acquisition. Those additional tariff increases would mean a cost increase across the board for imported goods, including the aforementioned millwork. However, there’s another side to this question: Many U.S.-based family-owned and generational millwork firms would actually WELCOME the higher tariff increase to 50%, because they say bad actors such as China are abusing shipping and labeling loopholes to flood the U.S. market with cheap imported goods well below regular market value. When pricing wars break out, countries with lower overhead costs—or those that bend the rules to get around international shipping regulations—gain a competitive edge against countries that follow the rules. America is taking a protectionist approach to its tariffs on cabinets and other wooden products, claiming its national security is threatened by this trade imbalance. What does this all mean for the current state of the millwork market? The NFI Northstar scoured the ‘Net for the impactful info you need to know as we roll into 2026. 7 things to know about the U.S. millwork market & tariffs: (with links to original sources) The U.S. cabinet industry supports 250,000 jobs, with 95 percent of the firms being family-owned companies. However, U.S. cabinet makers have lost 20% of the domestic market over the past decade, as China, Mexico, and countries in Southeast Asia have flooded the American market with cheap imports below market value. The market share value of imported cabinets in the U.S. surged to almost $3.7 billion dollars in 2024, double the amount from a decade prior. The U.S. is the largest importer of cabinets. The current tariff rate of 25% (and possible increase) aims to cut the trade deficit and help grow domestic market share. However, the tariffs are also impacting pricing and selection of available goods. These tariffs on bad faith importers are also harming long-term allies such as Canada, who is shouldering the same import rate as China, Mexico and others, which severely threatens its $4.5 billion cabinet industry. Besides increasing costs on current projects, the whiplash tariff announcements create confusion and uncertainty within the industry’s supply chain, which can lead to longer wait times, less choice in products, and unpredictable cost increases. Despite higher mortgage rates and a downturn in the sales market, remodels, refurbishes, and retrofits are expected to remain at a steady rate through 2026.   That’s it for this edition of The NFI Northstar. Thanks for reading! We’ll be back next month with more helpful industry news. Visit our website to learn more about Nationwide Fixture Installations, check out our Careers page to see our open positions, and if you’re ready to start your custom installation project, fill out our contact form. This is why…NFI. We install SATISFACTION! Follow Us On Social Media

The New Year will be here before you know it, so we’re going into forecast mode to look at trends that will impact the millwork industry in 2026 and beyond. The NFI Northstar team scoured the internet, read what the design, construction, and industry experts had to say, then narrowed it down to five of the most important trends to watch for in the millwork industry. Read on to increase your knowledge base and roll into the New Year like a business genius! Five trends impacting the millwork industry in 2026   TECH INTEGRATION & DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION High-tech integrations to allow built-in charging, sensor, and systems access The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics in manufacturing, design & logistics Cloud collaboration by teammates in different locations The rise of Building Information Modeling (BIM) AR/VR improvements in the planning & design phases These are just a sample of all the technology-themed trends that will continue to accelerate through 2026. Tech-related upgrades to the industry will also impact the workforce, as employers will need to start hiring more tech-literate workers, whose ability with high-tech tools will be as important as their carpentry skills.   SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS Wood happens to be one of the most sustainable and carbon neutral building materials available. In 2026, expect an increased demand for: Forest Stewardship Council-certified sustainable timber and reclaimed wood A growing adoption of CLT (cross-laminated timber) and glulam (glue-laminated timber) Low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) finishes - which are much less hazardous compared to traditional finishes Plus, high-tech design software allows for less waste and material optimization.   AESTHETICS, DESIGN, AND FINISHES One phrase popped out while compiling reports on the aesthetic trends concerning millwork for 2026—“Biophilic Design,” the concept of incorporating natural elements (such as wood!) to connect people with nature. This reportedly improves employee mood and productivity, and invites customers to linger in the space. Designers using natural materials want to instill character in their interior work and professional spaces utilizing: Local art Contrasting textures Bold patterns and colors To compliment that aesthetic, expect wooden millwork and casework elements that feature Clean lines Concealed hardware Hidden functions & customizations Innovative storage solutions to maximize every square inch of space   WORKFORCE FORECAST Retirement is hitting the trades harder than expected: The average millwork professional is in their late 40s to mid-50s, and companies are now facing the prospect of a “silver tsunami” that could eliminate decades of institutional knowledge and experience. The need for skilled trade workers is driving up demand—and wages—for those roles: millwork engineers, drafters, CNC operators, cabinetmakers, installers, and production managers. Incoming trade workers will need to be tech literate in order to adapt to the changing millwork industry landscape as technological advances continue to shape manufacturing, design, and logistics. Millwork production will get more detailed and more complex, which will require workers with even more advanced skills and a knowledge base that understands tolerances, materials, technology, and installation challenges.   INDUSTRY OUTLOOK FOR 2026 & BEYOND According to this published report on LinkedIn, the millwork market “is characterized by a mix of established industry leaders and innovative SMEs (subject matter experts) leveraging advanced manufacturing technologies such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining and automation. Strategic mergers and acquisitions are intensifying market consolidation, while digital transformation initiatives improve supply chain efficiencies and customer engagement.” Hard to top this overview outlook for the millwork industry as reported by LinkedIn, so we’ll quote the whole callout: “The U.S. millworks market is witnessing robust growth driven by rising residential and commercial construction, with custom millwork, cabinetry, and architectural woodwork leading the demand. The increasing adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly materials aligns with regulatory shifts and consumer preferences, opening avenues for innovation in green product offerings.” Market experts across the board tend to see positive growth in the millwork market in 2026 and the coming years, although it’s important to note the potential impact of unforeseen macro forces and external industry drivers. This report, conducted by PS Market Research, forecasts the U.S. millwork market to grow from USD $12.5 billion in 2024 to USD $18.4 billion by 2032, implying a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 5.1% from 2025-2032, indicating a fantastic growth. The construction pipeline will continue to expand, with multi-site and multi-years projects across a number of markets: healthcare, student housing & university remodels, hospitality, corporate workspaces, retail & grocery, and multi-family residential developments.   Take a deeper dive into these millwork market trends with the expanded blog posts sourced by NFI: Google AI Overview: Architectural Millwork Industry Trends 2026 Trends in Retail Millwork and Shelving for 2026 Top 10 Interior Trends of 2026 2026 Trends: Character Driven Design Millwork Job Market Forecast Millwork Drafting Trends United States Millworks Market Size 2026: LinkedIn   That’s it for this edition of The NFI Northstar. Thanks for reading! We’ll be back next month with more helpful industry news. Visit our website to learn more about Nationwide Fixture Installations, check out our Careers page to see our open positions, and if you’re ready to start your custom installation project, fill out our contact form. This is why…NFI. We install SATISFACTION! Follow Us On Social Media