In a powerful display of collaboration and economic ambition, a delegation from Alabama recently traveled to Germany to participate in LIGNA, a world-leading trade fair for the woodworking and forestry industry. Held in Hanover every two years, LIGNA draws thousands of exhibitors and visitors from across the globe.
This year, Alabama stood out as the only U.S. state with a dedicated presence, highlighting the state’s growing reputation as a global player in the forestry and manufacturing sectors.
Representatives from the state attended the last show two years ago after a decades-long absence. That outing was successful enough for the state to return this year with a “Dream Team” of sorts, representing a cross-section of public and private interests. Members of the Alabama Department of Commerce, Alabama Forestry Commission, Alabama Industrial Development Training (AIDT), and even representatives from the state’s utilities sector came together to promote Alabama’s strategic advantages.
Their goal was twofold: to forge new international business connections and to demonstrate why Alabama is, increasingly, the place to do business.
