Article Number : 878 |
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| Date | 2/15/2006 10:29:42 AM |
| Written By | LGM & Associates Technical Flooring Services |
| View this article at: | //floorbiz.com/BizResources/NPViewArticle.asp?ArticleID=878 |
| Abstract | By Matthew Spieler Prior to Surfaces I was fortunate enough to attend the CarpetsPlus Color Tile convention. It has always been one of my favorite shows—for many reasons. It’s a chance to spend time with some of the nicest folks in the industry... |
| Article | By Matthew Spieler Prior to Surfaces I was fortunate enough to attend the CarpetsPlus Color Tile convention. It has always been one of my favorite shows—for many reasons. It’s a chance to spend time with some of the nicest folks in the industry. From Ron Dunn, Jon Logue and the rest of the crew who oversee the buying group to the members themselves. They are smart, kind and are always wearing smiles and are full of optimism. This year’s theme, “We’re All Family Here,” was aptly titled. That spirit of camaraderie starts at the top. Ron, Jon their families and everyone else associated with the group reflect the same qualities seen in the members. And, it’s why this is one of the most closely knit groups there is. A few years ago CarpetsPlus was owned by The Maxim Group, which was in bankruptcy, and the members pretty much demanded Ron and Jon purchase it, saying if anyone else did they would disband. Now that’s loyalty. And Ron and Jon have earned it. They treat their members with dignity and respect. Some of their core values state that as a group “we are an extra cost to the industry so we have to provide a significant added value to pay for it.” Another: there is no mandating. “We bring resources but won’t say you must use them. It’s your store and your risk, so you decide—we just try to make it easier for you to be successful.” This show affords me a chance to preview the latest products. As one of the industry’s largest groups, just about all the major mills are here. Which leads to the next reason why this is a great show. It’s the first chance to renew acquaintances with mill execs who tour the “buying group circuit.” The trade press goes to every meeting, as do most suppliers, so we tend to run into the same people. Lastly, the meeting gets my juices flowing. After all the holiday meals and celebrations, one tends to fall into a state of lethargy. Coming to this show revives the senses and reminds me there is a whole year of new and interesting people to meet, companies to visit and products to see. I couldn’t think of a better way to kick off the year. |