UBC Undergraduate Research

Marketing strategy for small diameter Douglas-fir Ashari, Newsha; Mak, Jamie

Abstract

This report is an investigation into the marketing strategies for small diameter Douglas-fir logs. The Cariboo Forest Region in British Columbia is overcrowded with small diameter Douglas-fir trees. This poses several environmental problems in the region, which includes the reduction in large diameter trees and mule deer populations, and an increased probability of serious forest fires. Through commercial thinning, there will be access to the small diameter trees. There are vast product opportunities to utilize the small diameter Douglas-fir logs. Due to the softwood lumber dispute and high logging costs, the highest and best use of the resources is value-added products. After analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of potential value-added products, solid Douglas-fir RTA furniture has the best potential to enter the market and make a profit. The target markets for the furniture are retailers – aiming at middle to low class consumers. The product line included tables, chairs, entertainment centres, desks, bookcases, hutches and dressers; these products will be showcased and promoted at trade shows and in catalogues. Disclaimer: “UBC SEEDS provides students with the opportunity to share the findings of their studies, as well as their opinions, conclusions and recommendations with the UBC community. The reader should bear in mind that this is a student project/report and is not an official document of UBC. Furthermore readers should bear in mind that these reports may not reflect the current status of activities at UBC. We urge you to contact the research persons mentioned in a report or the SEEDS Coordinator about the current status of the subject matter of a project/report.”

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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.5 Canada