Setting up an integrated plant of solid wood panels supplying the furniture enterprise of the future : an exploratory analysis

This paper explores conceptually the overall implications, impacts and benefits resulting from setting up an integrated factory for the production of large and standardized solid wood panels as the prime raw material used by a highly automated solid wood furniture plant. The paper begins with an overview of the current value creation network of solid wood furniture from the forest to the customer. Then, a comprehensive assessment of potential opportunities for improvement leading to higher enterprise agility is conducted. The advanced technologies that can be introduced in the crucial processes are also reviewed. The expected gains in terms of agility are identified, and different hypothetical scenarios are discussed.