April 5, 2024 4:00 a.m.
In the KQEN Business Spotlight:
After over 130 years, a local timber company is closing.
On Thursday, Riddle based C&D Lumber issued a release which said, “It is with profound regret that the board of directors of C&D Lumber Co. announces the permanent closure of our operations”. Founded in 1890 by Alfred Johnson in Southern Oregon’s Coos County, C&D Lumber has been a cornerstone of the timber industry for over 130 years, renowned for producing the highest quality Douglas Fir, Incense Cedar, and Port Orford Cedar wood products”.
The release said the 6th generation family-owned and operated business, has weathered many storms through the decades. “However, the unprecedented challenges facing the industry today – from market fluctuations, increasing operational costs, to timber supply issues – have made it impossible for us to envision a sustainable future for the company”.
The release said the decision was not made lightly. “We extend our deepest gratitude to all our employees, past and present, for their hard work, dedication and passion. Their contributions have been the backbone of C&D Lumber, distinguishing us in a competitive industry. We also thank our customers, suppliers and community for their unwavering support and partnership over the years”.
For more than a century, C&D Lumber has been a leading employer and “fervent supporter of local initiatives and stewardship of our natural resources”. The release said the Johnson family plans to continue this tradition through the continued management and growth of C&D’s sister company, Silver Butte Timber.
Officials said, “This is a challenging time for all of us connected to C&D Lumber Co. We approach this closure with heavy hearts but also with pride in what we have achieved together”.
The release said the immediate plan involves a strategic wind-down of company operations, ensuring that all remaining inventory is processed and sold, and affairs are settled responsibly and respectfully. The release concluded: “We are committed to providing support for our employees during this transition, including severance packages and assistance in finding new employment”.
News Radio 93-9 FM and 1240 KQEN has reached out to company officials seeking more information regarding the closure.