Manthei Wood Products Purchases Cahaba Veneer In Alabama

Bibb County Economic & Industrial Development Authority (EIDA) announced that Manthei Wood Products, a nationally recognized, family-owned hardwood veneer manufacturer, has acquired Cahaba Veneer in Centreville, Ala. and will invest $10 million and create 37 jobs, while retaining 67 jobs.

Cahaba Veneer, founded in 1995, has been a vital part of Bibb County’s industrial base. Known for its high-quality hardwood veneer and ability to serve specialized markets—including engineered flooring, custom plywood, and niche applications such as skateboard veneer—the company has built a reputation for craftsmanship and adaptability.

Manthei Wood Products brings a legacy dating back to the 1940s, when the Manthei family began producing veneer in Michigan. Now in its third generation of family leadership, Manthei has grown into a respected leader in the hardwood veneer industry, known for innovation, quality, and long-term investment. 

The acquisition ensures continued operations at the Centreville facility. Not only is this important in terms of future economic impact, but it also helps secure the future for one of Bibb County’s oldest and best known places of business, as the facility Manthei is investing in dates back to around the year 1900, when it was owned by the Belcher family and over the years has made everything from hardwood flooring to broom handles.

“MWP is a third-generation family business based in Petoskey, Michigan focusing on converting North American hardwood timber into veneer and plywood, with the mission to cultivate God-given potential in our people and forests so our families, communities, and world flourish,” comments Abe Manthei, president of Manthei Group. “This new plant will be a key piece in our wood manufacturing business, allowing us to expand our plywood and veneer operations through both vertical integration and new product offerings.”

“The forest products industry is a cornerstone of Alabama’s rural economy,” adds Stephanie Fuller of the Alabama Forestry Assn. “Investments like this strengthen the entire supply chain and ensure long-term sustainability and innovation in our industry.”