America's Oldest Woodworking Retailer Turns 80

PARKERSBURG, W.Va., March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Knowledgeable people, unparalleled service, quality products and education are the keys to Woodcraft's success and longevity, company officials announced, as they mark the 80th anniversary, in 2008, of the national woodworking products and education provider.

Jeff Forbes, President of Woodcraft Supply LLC, said, "As the oldest retailer of our kind in America today, Woodcraft Supply has a long history of providing woodworking solutions. Since we opened our doors in 1928, it's easy for us to stay connected to the heritage of craftsmanship and woodworking history. And you know that we'll be here tomorrow, too, with all the quality products and know-how that you've come to expect from the Woodcraft name."

Woodcraft began in a one-room shop in Boston's North End in 1928. Since that time, the company has grown to include more than 85 retail locations in more than 70 major metropolitan areas throughout the U.S. Its catalog, considered the standard by woodworkers, features over 8,000 items. More than 2 million catalogues are distributed annually to all 50 states and 117 foreign countries.

The company has grown with the times to meet the needs and lifestyles of its woodworking hobbyist, "do-it-yourselfer" and professional customer base. Woodcraft was quick to implement its online strategy in 1995 with http://www.woodcraft.com. Undergoing constant evolution and improvement, the site now boasts over 1,000,000 visitors per month.

Woodcraft Magazine has also become a trusted source for woodworking projects, techniques and products. Published six times per year, the publication is distributed nationally.

"We believe Woodcraft has been successful because of the value all of us place on relationships -- whether with the customer, vendors or fellow associates," Forbes said. "These partnerships lead to success for everyone -- a terrific finished project, a winning distribution strategy, or a profitable woodworking business. And successful partnerships have a way of turning into deep and satisfying friendships, creating a woodworking family that you can count on."

That woodworking family has grown over the years and is a major reason for the company's success. Woodcraft franchise owners are local to their areas, know the customer and are woodworkers themselves. Additionally, Woodcraft prides itself on providing its franchisees with excellent corporate support, quality woodworking products, tremendous marketing support and customer research.

Forbes said, "We're excited to turn 80 and appreciative of our customers, vendors and employees that have helped us get to this point. We view each day as a new beginning and expect to be going strong at age 100 and beyond."

Throughout the year Woodcraft will be offering numerous "80th Anniversary" promotions both in its stores and on its website featuring the retailer's most sought after items. For more information on Woodcraft or its 80th anniversary specials visit the store nearest you, click on http://www.woodcraft.com, or call (800) 535-4482.