The LC’s Top 10 Articles in 2023
From enlightening perspectives on workforce development, to inspiring insights in remodeling, to essential guidance on better business practices, and helping retail lumber dealers stay abreast of dynamic industry trends, these articles have captured the attention of our readers, making them our top reads in 2023. Scroll through and check them out again or for the […]
2024 Home Exterior Trends from Westlake Royal
A home’s exterior is crucial for making a good first impression, and staying updated on exterior trends can enhance curb appeal, increase home value, and improve living space comfort. Westlake Royal Building Products, known for innovation in exterior and interior building products, provides insights into five anticipated home exterior trends for 2024. Connection with Nature […]
FIRING LINE: “Expect What You Inspect”
One of the secret pleasures of being a manager is stepping around the corner and inadvertently overhearing two employees engaged in what they think is a private conversation. Years ago, when I was the general manager, I came across this exact situation. This time, it was two yardworkers standing beside lifts of 2×10’s. One of […]
Leveraging AI in Employment Decisions
Organizations are increasingly utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in employment-related decisions. According to the Society for Human Resources Management, around 25% of organizations use AI for HR processes. This may include the following: Although AI can offer several benefits—such as improved efficiency, objectivity and decision-making—it also presents challenges related to biases, transparency and ethical concerns. To […]
FIRING LINE: “Please Don’t Make Me Cold-Call”
I’ve always felt that among the traits of a good salesperson are work ethic, time management, organizational skills, caring about both the customer and the company, product knowledge, understanding profitability, self-confidence, and thick skin. Obviously, few, if any, start off their sales careers with all these traits. Many start off with a good work ethic, […]
The Value of Cyber Insurance
As cyberattacks become more frequent and costly, it’s crucial for organizations to maximize their financialprotection against related losses by purchasing sufficient insurance. Cyber coverage, also known as cyber liabilityinsurance, can help organizations pay for a range of expenses that may result from cyber incidents—including (butnot limited to) data breaches, ransomware attacks and phishing scams. Specific […]
Rising Star: Ryan Rotondo
Location: Montgomery, NY Position: Inside Sales Representative/Product Manager • Russin How did you begin your career in the LBM Industry? I had never worked in this industry prior to working for Russin. During and after college, I spent many years working in retail, including my last stop, which was working for a car dealership selling cars. I […]
Railing Trends for 2024
With a wide variety of outdoor railing systems available in today’s marketplace, homeowners have more options than ever before when selecting a railing to complement their deck, patio, porch, and, in some cases, even their interior room remodels. While traditional wood and white picket spindled railing were the norm for decades, railing manufacturers have fully […]
Make the Most of Outdoor Spaces with These Deck Design Ideas
Before we dive into the top deck trends, let’s remind ourselves how a deck can benefit your customers. The benefits are endless! Here are a few of the reasons why having a deck is an amazing option for homeowners: It’s the perfect hosting space. If they have a gorgeous deck, homeowners can proudly invite guests […]
Welcoming Incoming NRLA Chair: Doug Ford, Curtis Lumber
Doug Ford didn’t set out to be a leader in the lumber business. From a young age, he wanted to be a teacher. Though his professional journey has taken him far from the classroom, he has still found a way to express that desire to teach through his career in the building materials industry. As […]