SNX Technologies Provides Contour Edgebanders to the Woodworking Industry

Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, is home to SNX Technologies, a company that manufactures contour edgebanders, edgebanding chemicals, and glue to support furniture, closet, and cabinet companies. The edgebanders apply the colored edges along wood desks and other pieces to create a smoother and more fashionable surface.

“If you are sitting at the desk with a colored edge, one of our machines likely applied it,” says Craig Sexton, one of the owners of SNX Technologies. “Our machines are used in large-scale production. For example, we work with companies that provide desks to entire office complexes or school districts.”

SNX Technologies, with its team of 10 employees, provides invaluable equipment to some of the largest furniture manufacturers in the United States. It has a bright future as it expands its offerings and enters new markets.

SNX Technologies Has Operated in Benton County Since 2008

Sexton has contributed to the woodworking industry since 1988 and has historically used imported equipment for contour edgebanding. However, he and his partner, Mike Noelting, were unhappy with the quality of work these machines produced and wanted to develop technology that their customers would appreciate. This commitment to offering quality products has helped SNX Technologies grow each year.

“We’re looking to expand into new markets and are also exploring other types of machinery,” he says. “Most of our advancements come from our customers. We hear about a customer's needs and then design machines to meet those requirements.”

Sexton and Noelting see potential in the cabinet and closet industry, as more homebuyers seek to maximize their storage space. Out of 3,000 homebuyer responses, the walk-in closet was the most desired feature. Another survey of 500 Realtors found 97% of buyers prefer closet storage to basement and attic space. As more builders work to develop storage and closet shelving companies, the need for SNX’s equipment will expand. 

Sexton Pivots to Benefit from Economic Trends

SNX Technologies is successful because its team tracks national trends and considers how they affect customers. For example, the increased demand for closet doors and shelving is increasing as more homeowners choose to renovate their homes instead of moving. Federal interest rates make it harder to buy a house, especially for existing homeowners who bought when rates were low.

Another significant trend is nearshoring. As more furniture and cabinet companies move their operations back to the United States, SNX Technologies is ready to improve its production processes.  

SNX plans to further penetrate the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and Mexico markets and will soon ship machines globally.

Sexton Hires People Willing to Learn

The world of woodworking and contour edgebanders is small, which means it is easier to hire people with soft skills who can then be trained to understand the machinery. SNX’s team includes three machinists, an engineer from the machinery industry, an assembly worker from the automotive industry, and a service team with backgrounds in customer care.

“We look for someone who has a desire to work,” Sexton says. “We can train anybody to do this job if they are eager to learn. Some of our best employees started as bartenders and waitresses early in their careers. This makes them great with people.”

SNX Technologies also has a low turnover rate. It’s worth SNX’s time to train employees because they want to continue working for the team.

SNX Technologies is also part of Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. Sexton has lived in Sauk Rapids and the Greater St. Cloud Area all his life and loves the people here. His investment in economic development creates opportunities for his company and the people around him. 

“Every business in Benton County benefits from our work in economic development,” says Amanda Othoudt, Executive Director of the Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. “If we can make it easier for manufacturers like SNX Technologies to take advantage of new opportunities and grow, then we can benefit every resident in the region.”

Learn More About the Companies in Benton County

SNX Technologies is just one of the companies that has flourished in Sauk Rapids. The community is made up of entrepreneurs and small business owners who follow their passions. Explore business resources that make it easier to invest in your organization and grow. You can also meet other members of the Benton Economic Partnership, Inc., and learn how they shape the local economy.