Irving Adds **115 MMBF** Capacity: SPF Supply Stability

Impact on Your Procurement Strategy

This acquisition, closing January 5th, represents a strategic supply-side move rather than an immediate pricing trigger. The addition of the Masardis Sawmill, capable of producing 115 MMBF of random-length spruce and fir annually, is significant for buyers focused on the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic markets.

From a procurement standpoint, the immediate impact on spot pricing for SPF is negligible, as this is a transfer of existing capacity, not an introduction of new volume. However, the long-term implications are substantial. J.D. Irving now operates 10 sawmills with a combined capacity of 1.3 BBF, solidifying its position as a dominant, vertically integrated producer. For buyers, this consolidation translates directly into enhanced supply chain reliability. The mill is situated near Irving’s 1.3 million acres of Maine timberlands and serviced by the Maine Northern Railway, optimizing log flow and logistics efficiency—key factors that reduce the risk of unexpected supply disruptions.

For distributors in the Northeast, this move secures a crucial domestic source of SPF supply. In a market frequently exposed to volatility from Canadian trade policies and transportation bottlenecks, having a major, integrated producer commit further to domestic operations provides a valuable buffer. Buyers should view this as a signal that IFP is investing heavily in consistent supply. We recommend focusing less on short-term price fluctuations and more on leveraging this stability in long-term volume contracts for 2025. This capacity—especially the random-length spruce and fir output—is critical for framing and general construction applications, supporting demand driven by single-family housing starts and R&R activity in the region.

Specifically, buyers should use this opportunity to reassess their supplier risk profiles. Suppliers with deep vertical integration and optimized logistics, like the newly expanded Irving operation, are better positioned to weather macroeconomic slowdowns or sudden demand spikes. Look for improved consistency in lead times and product grading from this specific facility as Irving integrates its operational best practices. This 115 MMBF capacity is now anchored within a much larger, more stable system.

Key Takeaways

• Expect supply stability for Spruce/Fir (SPF) products in the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic, leveraging Irving’s commitment to 1.3 BBF total annual capacity.

• The integration near 1.3 million acres of timberland reduces logistical risk; prioritize reliable, integrated suppliers when negotiating Q1/Q2 volume contracts.

• This is a long-term supply assurance move, not a pricing event. Do not delay purchases waiting for a price dip based solely on this news; focus on securing supply consistency.

Market Outlook

Pricing Trend: STABLE Confidence Level: MEDIUM Recommended Action: Review supplier stability and prioritize locking in Q1 random-length Spruce/Fir volumes with integrated suppliers like Irving. Leverage the security provided by this newly acquired 115 MMBF domestic capacity to ensure consistent inventory flow through Q2 2025.

How LumberFlow Helps

Use LumberFlow's supplier performance dashboards to evaluate IFP's reliability and lead times post-acquisition. Leverage our multi-supplier RFQ system to test pricing and secure the most advantageous Q1/Q2 contracts based on this consolidated 1.3 BBF supply chain.

Ready to stay ahead of market trends? Book a consultation with our team to see how LumberFlow's procurement platform transforms dimensional lumber buying.