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A NEW ISSUE OF COUNTERTOPS & ARCHITECTURAL SURFACES IS OUT NOW! |
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The International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) releases a quarterly magazine in support of the decorative surfacing industry. Find out all the latest industry news, educational opportunities, material trends and business developments that perpetuate the industry.
In this issue, we're encouraging readers to make an impact by embracing sustainable products and processes that support a safer and stronger future.
From financial solutions that unlock growth opportunities (page 22) to strategies that build strong relationships with your best customers (page 24) to eco-friendly products for your shop (page 28) and a fabricator in Michigan that thrives on technology, streamlined processes and superior customer service (page 44), this issue is packed with valuable insights that drive success.
Our Sustainability Matters contributors present a compelling argument about how safety is a critical part of building a sustainable business (page 34).
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Growth Opportunities in an Uncertain Economy
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Current economic signals are all over the map. Some geographic areas are still seeing record growth while some are already slowing significantly. Some market segments are still strong (large commercial projects) while some are weakening (new housing starts in some areas). Some forecasters predict a “soft landing” while others are predicting something more significant. Still other forecasters say we won’t have any sort of recession. It’s no wonder many shop owners are confused about how to plan for the next few years.
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The good news is this uncertainty is creating opportunities for shop owners who recognize them and are prepared to take advantage of them.
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Financing Sustainability: Unlocking Growth Opportunities in Your Business
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By Ambro Blackwell, JP Morgan Chase
The countertop fabrication and remodeling industries are increasingly influenced by consumer demand for sustainability. However, achieving a green transformation can require a significant investment, often posing a challenge for many small business owners.
Fortunately, financial solutions are available to propel these businesses toward a more sustainable and lucrative future.
The Business Case for Sustainability
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In today’s market, the appeal of sustainability extends far beyond the eco-conscious consumer. Homeowners are interested not only in beautiful aesthetics, but they are also looking for long-lasting, environmentally friendly options. Sustainable practices are no longer just nice-to-haves but have become compelling selling points that can set a business apart in a crowded marketplace.
Embracing sustainability in your business can unlock a few opportunities.
READ ON ...
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Sustain Your Sales: How to Make Sure Your Top Customers Stay Your Top Customers
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By Tim Saddoris, Grand Onyx
I don’t want to be an alarmist, but the warning signs of a potential recession are all around us. While we all hope it doesn’t come to pass (some are saying it won’t), you need to be proactive just in case. Building a sustainable business model before any downturn happens is the smart play. If an economic downturn does occur, you’ll be better prepared. If not, you’ll have taken steps to solidify your business. So what should you do to prepare? Get closer to your clients right now.
KEEP READING ...
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Sustainability Matters: Safeguarding Sustainability |
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By Paul “Max” Le Pera &
Jessica McNaughton
In this installment of the Sustainability Matters series, we arrive at a topic argued to be one of the most crucial aspects of our work in the fabrication industry: safety. Although it may appear disconnected from sustainability, it is critical. Safety transcends routine practices and accident prevention and extends its influence through procurement processes — even delving into the components of materials.
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Without the implementation of comprehensive safety measures, not only do you jeopardize the success of your business, but, more importantly, you endanger the well-being of your workforce. Sustainability means safeguarding the planet and its inhabitants; hence, safety is a paramount concern.
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Introducing the Silica & Slab Safety Certificate: A Resource for Employee Safety Training |
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The Natural Stone Institute has announced a newly updated Silica & Slab Safety Certificate. This online certificate consists of seventeen courses focused on preventing silicosis, safe slab handling and creating a safety program.
The updated certificate can be completed in 4-6 hours. The certificate includes videos, course readings, and tests. Videos have been close-captioned, and subtitles are available in many different languages, including Spanish, Portuguese and French.
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NSI Board President Duane Naquin said, “Whether completing the certificate online or in person, the importance of silicosis prevention and material handling safety is key. I encourage all employers to be proactive and make safety a critical part of your company culture.”
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Coverings 2024 Launches Event Registration, Hotel Booking Options and Annual Award Programs |
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Coverings, the premier international ceramic tile and natural stone exhibition and conference in North America, has launched the official openings for event registration, discounted hotel booking options and award program submissions for Coverings 2024, which will take place at the Georgia World Congress Center April 22-25, 2024, in Atlanta.
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Tile, stone and design professionals across all segments of the industry can now register at no cost to attend Coverings 2024 by visiting Coverings.com. Registering online at this time offers several benefits, including advanced access to event updates, special program notifications, exclusive promotions, introduction to new product trends and innovations, and the opportunity to contribute to one of several philanthropic causes through the inaugural Coverings Cares program.
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SolidSurface.com Launches Vanity Top Configurator |
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SolidSurface.com has now launched its Vanity Top Configurator experience for customers. This online tool will help ease the process visually for customer, starting with your choice of design colors from both Corian Solid Surface and HIMACS. Then move the customer on to the choice of edge and backsplash options, and choice of sink design and layout, along the way to creating a customers' custom vanity top.
SolidSurface.com is an online marketplace where all major manufacturers of solid surface material can be found and viewed, with focus offerings on both Corian and Wilsonart outlets. The website filtering tools allows visitors to refine the viewing page to their own desired design preferences, and these tools also allow visitors to compare manufacturers offerings.
SolidSurface.com is also host to ProFinder, a resource tool for specifiers and homeowners to locate local professional certified fabricators in their area. Industry professionals can receive additional discounts and other benefits by registering for a Pro Account.
Learn more at SolidSurface.com.
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Calling All ISFA Members!
It's that time of year again! Join us for a virtual holiday-themed MemberConnect Meeting on December 14 and get to know ISFA's new executive director, Marissa Bankert! We'll have a Q&A, share success stories from 2023, and take a look ahead at some of the issues and opportunities our industry is facing in 2024, including a trend report from Massimo Ballucchi of Cosentino USA.
Not a member? Get in on the action and join today!
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Next event: March 26-27, 2024 | San Antonio, Texas
This ISFA Certified Professional Solid Surface Fabrication Training program is the gold standard course for fabricating solid surface. The program is recognized by all major manufacturers and their network of certified fabricator partners.
This hands-on, two-day session provides attendees with the skills and knowledge in all facets of the fabrication process, including layout, templating, seaming, support, sanding, edges, cutouts, backsplashes, thermoforming, finishing and installation. Participants will complete a vanity application which includes an integral bowl sink, built-up edge profile, edge inlay and examples of coved as well as set-on style backsplash.
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Planning your next industry event or fundraiser? Let us know and we'll help you get the word out! |
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