West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. (WFT), trading under the symbol WFG, is one of North America's leading diversified wood products companies. The company has operations in Western Canada, the Southern United States, and Europe.
Founded in 1955 by Sam, Bill and Pete Ketcham, the Canadian-based company began as a small, three-man operation in Quesnel, British Columbia with a single sawmill. In the ensuing decades, West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. evolved into an international industry leader, currently employing roughly 8,000 hardworking individuals globally.
West Fraser’s operations deal with the sustainable management and transformation of wood into wood products used in building and construction projects. These wood products include lumbers, panels, pulp, newsprint, wood chips and energy products. The multinational continues to uphold its commitment to eco-friendly solutions, managing forests and manufacturing activities for sustainability with an emphasis on reducing carbon footprints.
West Fraser's vertical integration model is significant. It is designed to get the most value from the trees it harvests by using nearly every aspect of the tree and using residual fiber wherever possible.
The company’s reputation for high-quality products has made it a desirable choice in markets across the globe. In addition to being a top supplier in the construction industry, West Fraser is also an engaging stakeholder in the areas where it operates. Economic development, job creation, and strong community relationships are critical elements of the company's mission and values.
Under the leadership of Ray Ferris, the company's President and Chief Executive Officer since 2019, West Fraser has continued to build on the operational excellence, solid relationships, and innovative practices that are critical to its success.
Despite market challenges, West Fraser has demonstrated an ability to deliver solid financial results. In recent years, the company has made strategic investments and acquisitions. Among these is the 2021 acquisition of Norbord Inc., the world’s largest OSB producer. This acquisition solidified West Fraser’s position as a global diversified wood products company, and demonstrated the company's ongoing commitment to growth and exceptional service.
Investors have come to appreciate West Fraser's solid track record and strategic vision. The company's shares are listed on both the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange under the symbols WFG.
West Fraser remains committed to its longstanding goals: dedication to safety, producing quality products, sound financial performance, and innovative and sustainable practices in wood product manufacturing. As such, the company aims to utilize renewable resources to manufacture products in a sustainable manner, providing value to shareholders, employees, customers, and the communities where it operates.