Branim Purchases Jim Barna Log Systems; Company Changes Name to Barna Log Homes

07/29/2005
Location: ONEIDA, Tenn.

Jim Barna Log Systems is changing its name to Barna Log Homes, as the company enters a new era with the completion of its sale to long-time employee Darlene Branim.

Branim and Jimmy Barna signed the closing documents on July 28, transferring ownership of the company that employs 150 in Oneida, Tenn., and has sold more than 13,000 log homes through its network of approximately 120 distributors.

Branim says that the sale means the Barna "family" will remain intact. "We can continue working on what Mr. Barna started 30 years ago," she says.

Branim has worked at Barna for 22 years, most recently as president. Jim Barna died unexpectedly in June 2004 and Branim entered into negotiations to purchase the company in February 2005.

"Jim always said that it takes many people to make a vision come true. Now, it's our time to take his vision and run with it and grow with it," Branim says. "His spirit is in all of us."

Branim anticipates expansion in commercial markets as well as innovative marketing that targets the environmentally conscious, hands-on baby boomer. New programs will strengthen Barna Log Homes as a one-stop home-building experience that encompasses consulting, design, construction and supplies, she says.

"From start to finish, Barna Log Homes will set the bar, fulfilling customers' every expectation and more. This era of constant improvement will mean that distributors will be better equipped, design centers will be localized, and quality programs will be stronger than ever," "Branim adds.

"In addition, our marketing efforts will refocus on our core market, the outdoor-oriented individual," she continues, noting that the Jim Barna Foundation will increase in significance.

The non-profit foundation supports a reforestation program founded by Jim Barna in conjunction with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture and Forestry Division. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of every Barna log home helps to improve the health and welfare of our nation's forest resources.

Branim stresses that Barna Log Homes is a "very strong and very stable company," with approximately $25 million in annual sales. The company has been an industry leader for decades, Branim notes, establishing the first log home institute and introducing some of the industry's first advanced systems like double-tongue-and-groove joinery and saddle notching.

"My dad confided to me on many occasions that Darlene was the glue that held the company together," says James "Jimmy" I. Barna, II, the company's past chairman of the board, noting that in 2004, Jim Barna Log Systems experienced the second largest sales numbers in company history.

"Her devotion to the people who comprise Barna Log Homes and her dedication to our distributors and their customers will ensure continued industry leadership," Barna adds. A forest ranger, he is leading the efforts of the Jim Barna Foundation.

A native of Oneida, Branim lives in a log home along a small lake with her husband, Alfred, and their two college-aged children. She serves as clerk, assistant treasurer and Sunday school teacher at Mountain View Baptist Church, a board member of the Children's Center in Oneida, and a member of the Kiwanis Club of Oneida. She earned her bachelor's degree in applied organization management from Tusculum College.

For more information about Barna Log Homes, call toll-free at 800-962-4734 or visit www.jimbarna.com on the Internet.