CUTTING TOOLS MAKER ACQUIRED

Burton Mill Solutions, Woodland, Wa., has acquired Industrial Cutting Tools (ICT), based in Quitman, Ga. ICT specializes in reconditioning industrial cutting tools for sawmill, chip, and pellet operations throughout the Southeastern U.S. This acquisition significantly expands Burton’s geographic footprint and enhances its technical capabilities, enabling better service to primary wood producers who outsource the reconditioning of their circle and band saws and machine knives. With the addition of ICT, Burton strengthens its already comprehensive technical expertise in wood processing technology, including wide-band and circle saws, industrial knives, filing room equipment, reconditioning services, and industrial wear parts.

Chuck Wert, senior vice president of Burton, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, saying, “We are thrilled to join forces with ICT, as this partnership will enable us to elevate our service offerings and better meet the needs of our customers in the region. Our teams share a dedication to innovation and excellence, and together we will set new standards in the industry.”

Walter Cowart, general manager of ICT, shared his thoughts on the merger, saying, “This is an exciting opportunity for both companies to build on our strengths and improve our service delivery.” While Walter will remain with ICT’s prior owner, The Langdale Co., longtime employee Scott Mathis has agreed to take on the role of operations manager. Mathis said, “I am looking forward to writing the next chapter in our company’s story as we continue to provide exceptional solutions that genuinely benefit our customers.”

Dale Brown, CEO of Burton Mill Solutions and sister companies USNR and Mid-South Engineering, commented, “I am pleased to be expanding our cutting tools service network. This acquisition aligns with our overall mission to provide innovative solutions that enhance productivity and efficiency in the wood processing industry.”

ICT’s southern Georgia location will complement Burton’s existing network of saw and knife reconditioning service centers in Maine, South Carolina, Louisiana, and Alabama.

Burton Mill Solutions is the leading North American manufacturer and supplier of industrial saw blades, machine knives, filing room equipment, cutting tool reconditioning services, and vocational training to the lumber, pulp, and wood biomass industries, with a history dating back to 1832. The Burton family includes industry leading brands like Simonds International, BGR Saws, The Knife Source, Wright Machine, Armstrong, and US Blades. Burton is further extended by sister companies USNR, a global leader in sawmill and panel machinery, and Mid-South Engineering, North America’s oldest and largest professional engineering services firm exclusively serving the wood products industry.

Based in Quitman, Industrial Cutting Tools specializes in designing, manufacturing, and reconditioning cutting tools and supplying a variety of related products to the primary and secondary wood products markets. ICT was originally established in 1978 as an offshoot of the Langdale Co., but has since expanded and diversified to become a regional leader helping sawmills and other wood processors across a large swath of the southeastern United States. With a focus on service, value, and quality, ICT aims to be a trusted partner for wood processors seeking reliable and efficient cutting solutions.