Dodson Wholesale Lumber Co. Celebrates 70 Years in Roswell

Dodson Wholesale Lumber Co. is a fourth-generation family business with roots dating back to 1936. Founder R.J. Dodson and his wife Dorothy initially ran a sawmill in Lane, Oklahoma, and Ruidoso, New Mexico, before relocating to Roswell in 1955 to establish Dodson Wholesale Lumber.

Starting from a modest stack yard on West Second Street, R.J. and his eldest son, Bob, expanded the business into a 15-acre facility on North Garden Avenue. Bob eventually took over the business, followed by his sons Steve and Mark. While much has changed in Roswell over the past seventy years, Dodson Wholesale Lumber has remained a staple of Chaves County through it all.

Dodson Wholesale Lumber continues to operate under its motto, “Bringing goods from the woods,” and is modernizing its practices to increase efficiency and stay current with industry changes. This makes it an asset to Roswell and customers in the Southwestern region.   

Focused on Service From the Start

Dodson Wholesale Lumber is the largest privately owned and independent distributor in the New Mexico and West Texas region. Unlike many companies in the lumber industry that are consolidating or being acquired by larger corporations, Dodson remains committed to its independence as a regional wholesale distributor.

According to owner Bob Dodson, this commitment “allows us to operate leaner and react quicker than our competitors.”

The company has rail spurs in Roswell, NM, and Lubbock, Texas, and is serviced by both the Burlington Northern Santa Fe and Union Pacific Railroads, providing considerable bulk purchasing power. Its knowledgeable sales team and AutoCAD designer offer product expertise and building guidance. Moreover, Dodson uses its own trucks to deliver products and employs technology to guarantee on-time, complete deliveries of high-quality products.

“We operate our own line of delivery trucks,” says Mark Dodson. “This gives us greater control and flexibility with our deliveries. If we promise a delivery, it’s going to happen. Our customers rely on us to come through when we say we will.”

Dodson Innovates for the Future

Dodson Wholesale Lumber recognizes that innovation and strategic alliances are vital for its ongoing success. In the early 2000s, it established a strategic partnership with Roseburg and TrimJoist to sell and support their engineered wood products (EWP).

"We design custom floor systems using EWP software, providing accurate and efficient layouts tailored to each project,” says Derrick Chavez, Chief Operating Officer and EWP Specialist for Dodson Wholesale Lumber. “Our fast turnaround adds value by supporting our customers’ build schedules.”

Similarly, Dodson was also among the first in Roswell to adopt fiber optic internet, enabling them to operate using Software as a Service (SaaS). More recently, the Dodsons implemented an eight-acre WiFi network to support a scan gun-driven Warehouse Management System (WMS), which has greatly increased inventory accuracy and efficiency.

By leveraging technology, Dodson stays lean and competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. 

Dodson Wholesale Lumber is a Long-Time Member of the EDC

Dodson Wholesale Lumber has been a member of the Roswell-Chaves County Economic Development Corporation (RCCEDC) for several years. Bob, Steve, and his brother Mark appreciate how the EDC advocates for the community and brings resources and opportunities to Roswell.

“I saw the RCCEDC being very effective,” says Steve Dodson. “They work to bring state money to Roswell that can be used for various projects. They also pitch the area and bring new businesses and residents here. We thought that was important for growth and wanted to support it.”

Steve mentions that the EDC has brought in multiple businesses that have become customers of Dodson Wholesale Lumber. This is great for business because the family doesn’t have to ship lumber to different states. Instead, they can sell to companies right in their backyard, helping them save money and reducing their logistics burden.  

Steve also mentions the EDC recruiting the National Championship Air Races as a significant win, which will bring visitors, income, and opportunities to Roswell. The races could start a new chapter of growth in the area. 

Dodson Has a Strong Presence in the Roswell Community

Dodson Wholesale Lumber, a fourth-generation family-owned business, proudly marks its 70th year of serving Southeastern New Mexico and West Texas with quality lumber and building materials. Since its founding in 1955, it has remained a trusted partner in the region’s growth, known for its commitment to excellence and amazing customer service.

Over the decades, Dodson has played a vital role in shaping the local economy and supporting countless construction projects that have built homes, businesses, and communities. Its legacy of integrity, reliability, and customer-first service continues to thrive under the leadership of the Dodson family.

The Roswell-Chaves County EDC joins in celebrating this milestone, recognizing Dodson Lumber’s enduring impact on regional development.

“Dodson Wholesale Lumber exemplifies the kind of business that strengthens our community,” says Mike Espiritu, President and CEO of the EDC. “Their longevity and dedication are a testament to the values that make Roswell a great place to live and work.”

As Dodson Lumber looks to the future, it remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and supporting the next generation of builders and entrepreneurs.  

Explore the Diverse Industries of Chaves County

Roswell-Chaves County is known for key industries like aviation and advanced manufacturing, but this is a thriving region with several types of companies across different niches. Dodson Wholesale Lumber proves that there is a regional market for lumber and materials distribution. The company has evolved over the past 70 years, but is prepared to take the coming decades in stride.

Explore the other members of the RCCEDC to learn about the companies in Chaves County. You can also learn more about the local business environment if you are considering expanding to the area. The RCCEDC is here to welcome you and make your transition easier.