Lumber associations merge
Mid-America Lumbermens Association (MLA) announced Friday that it has merged with Northwestern Lumber Association (NLA) to create one of the largest building material trade associations in the industry.
MLA represents building material dealers and suppliers in Arkansas, Kansas & Missouri while NLA represents building material dealers and suppliers in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin & Upper Michigan.
The combined organizations will operate under the Northwestern Lumber Association umbrella until further notice and will represent over 1,800 building material dealers and over 150 suppliers/manufacturers.
Northwestern Lumber Association President Cody Nuernberg said of the merger, “Joining these long-time industry support groups together as one is a momentous occasion and one that has been diligently planned over the past four years.”
NLA has served as the managing partner of MLA since 2019 and has enjoyed helping the organization grow its membership footprint and its offerings. By merging the MLA and NLA membership base, the association expands networking opportunities for all members, connecting them to broader resources for products, services, education opportunities and advocacy.
States of the associations
Before the merger, the Northwestern Lumber Association represented the following states: Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Upper Michigan.
The Mid-America Lumbermens Association represented Arkansas, Kansas and Missouri.
The combined entity will operate as the NLA “until further notice,” according to the announcement.
“This merger also allows for broader reach for education and event offerings and will extend our visibility to invite new members into the organization,” Nuernberg said. “We are stronger together.”
MLA President Brett Thorne added, “This is an exciting announcement for our members and all the dealers and suppliers that have supported our region over the years. Together, we are expanding our community and increasing the opportunities for growth and support that our retailers require. We are excited to officially join NLA and continue to “build” a thriving industry!”
NLA Chairman of the Board Lynn Trask noted, “We could not be more excited for this next chapter for our organization. Our members are continually working to ensure the longevity of local retail in their communities and this merger provides a stronger network, additional stability and a larger voice that will allow all members to thrive.”
As part of the merger, all MLA members in good standing will receive membership with Northwestern Lumber Association until September 30, 2023. NLA will continue to produce MLA’s annual events and educational offerings and provide field support via a dedicated Regional Field Manager.
