“Being a part of Sexton Group has signi cantly elevated our business. Even though they have over 450 members across Canada, we always feel heard and valued as if we are part of the Sexton family. Their powerful network of members across the country has been invaluable, providing us with insights and connections that have helped us expand our business. The seminars and meetings they o er are incredibly bene cial, keeping us informed and ahead in a tough market. Sexton also excels at connecting suppliers with members, ensuring we have access to the best products at the most competitive prices. We couldn’t be more pleased with our partnership!”
Markus Lange, EG Penner Building Centre
ABSDA Serving the Industry for 71 years
It will come as no surprise ABSDA currently has close to 600 active Member Retail Building Supply and Associate Supplier Members.
ABSDA is the collective voice and liaison for the independent Building Supply and Home Improvement Industry.
Since 1955 this Association has focused on industry specific needs to our Members.
A Year Flies By: Gratitude, Growth, and What’s Next for ABSDA
Jay Milton Chair of the Board
As I enter the nal months of my term as Chair of the ABSDA Board, I’m struck by just how quickly this past year has passed. Time does indeed y when you’re fully engaged in work that matters and having fun doing it!
like the AI-driven Knowledge Hub to engagement with high school students through ChatterHigh. These efforts reflect a forward-thinking approach to training and industry development that will have lasting impact.
My feelings at this stage are mixed. It has been a privilege to play even a small role in supporting and helping shape such a strong and resilient industry, and to serve an association that represents it so well. While I’m sad to see this chapter come to a close, I am equally confident in, and encouraged by, what lies ahead for the ABSDA.
I’m pleased to welcome Duane McDonald as the incoming Chair. Duane brings a depth of experience and perspective that will serve the Board and membership well. I would also like to welcome Deb Brinson as Vice Chair. Deb is a dedicated advocate for our industry, and her leadership will be a valuable addition to the executive team.
This past year marked our 71st, highlighted by a sold-out Expo and banquet, clear evidence that our industry continues to value connection, collaboration, and strong business opportunities. The Expo remains a cornerstone event, combining solid buying opportunities with meaningful networking. Looking ahead, our summer golf and cornhole events are fast approaching, and I look forward to reconnecting with many of you there, along with welcoming new participants. We are fortunate to have an exceptional team at the ABSDA office. The professionalism, commitment, and energy demonstrated by Denis, Terry, Pat, Cindy, (and Connie) are evident in everything they do. Their work continues to move the association forward, from initiatives
While our industry is not immune to external pressures whether economic shifts, political factors, or broader global challenges it remains grounded in something far more enduring: its people. Across companies, regions, and roles, there is a shared commitment to supporting one another, solving problems, and celebrating success. That spirit of collaboration is a defining strength of the building supply community, particularly here in Atlantic Canada.
ABSDA continues to build strong momentum, with growing engagement and clear value for its members. I would encourage anyone with the opportunity to get involved whether by participating in events or considering a role on the Board. Contributing your time and perspective is both rewarding and impactful.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as Chair. It has been an honour. I wish everyone a successful and productive summer season, and continued success in the year ahead.
PS: Yes, Denis I am aware it’s May and Canada’s team, the beloved Maple Leafs, are not playing hockey! But don’t worry, NEXT YEAR is our year!
Jay Milton, Chair
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President’s Message – Spring 2026
Denis Melanson President
As we head into the 2026 spring building season, the outlook across Atlantic Canada can best be described as measured, but active. There is work in the system, particularly in renovation and repair, and early indicators suggest a gradual return of confidence in segments of the residential market. At the same time, this is not a market that rewards complacency—disciplined execution across inventory, pricing, and workforce readiness will define success in the months ahead.
From a data perspective, we are seeing a mixed but stabilizing picture. According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, housing starts nationally have remained relatively steady heading into early 2026 after a moderated 2025, with Atlantic Canada continuing to show resilience compared to some larger urban markets. At the same time, Statistics Canada data indicates that building permit values have fluctuated month-to-month, reflecting a market that is still sensitive to financing costs and project timing. Interest rates, while expected to ease gradually, remain a key factor influencing larger new-build decisions.
What does this mean for our members? Simply put, activity is there—but it requires precision.
One of the most notable shifts from recent years is the transition from supplyconstrained conditions to a more balanced, and in some cases competitive, marketplace. Inventory management is no longer about securing product at any cost—it’s about having the right product, in the right quantities, at the right time. Dealers who take a disciplined approach to purchasing, while maintaining strong relationships with their supplier partners, will be best positioned to manage both availability and cash flow.
Margin management is also back in focus. As competitive pressures re-emerge in certain categories, protecting profitability will depend less on price alone and more on the overall value delivered to customers. Expertise, service levels, and operational efficiency are once again key differentiators. Strategic quoting, particularly on larger projects, will be critical as members navigate tighter spreads and more informed buyers. Equally important is workforce readiness. The spring season places immediate pressure
on yards, delivery teams, and estimating functions. Well-trained staff not only improve throughput but also reduce costly errors and enhance the customer experience. Over the past number of weeks, we’ve seen strong engagement in ABSDA Academy training programs—from estimating to yard and warehouse operations—and it’s encouraging to see members investing in their teams ahead of the busy season. That preparation will pay dividends.
Operational readiness, in many ways, is the competitive advantage in today’s market. Dealers who enter May and June organized, staffed, and aligned will be able to capture opportunities more effectively than those reacting week-to-week. This is where planning, communication, and training intersect—and where ABSDA continues to focus its efforts in supporting our membership.
As always, our role as an association is to ensure you have access to the tools, training, and insights needed to navigate changing conditions. Whether through our education programs, industry connections, or digital platforms, we remain committed to helping our members operate more effectively and competitively.
The months ahead will be busy, and while the environment may be more complex than in past cycles, it is also full of opportunity for those who are prepared. I encourage all members to take a proactive approach— review your inventory strategies, invest in your people, and stay engaged with the resources available to you through ABSDA.
We look forward to supporting you through a safe, productive, and successful spring season.
Denis Melanson, President
“
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Shaun White Store Owner Paradise, NL
Patrick Goguen Director, Training and Workforce Development
When Busy Becomes Risky: Managing Safety During Peak Season
The busy summer season brings welcome demand— and increased risk. Higher volumes, tighter schedules, and ongoing labour shortages push teams to work faster and longer, often with newer or less experienced team members. Under these conditions, safety doesn’t disappear, but it does quietly erode unless it is deliberately reinforced.
1. Safety Under Pressure: When Rules Start to Bend During peak months, many incidents stem from “temporary” shortcuts that become routine. Spotters get skipped to save time. Loads move faster than conditions allow. Experienced employees rely on muscle memory instead of deliberate checks. Elevated stress narrows focus, pushing people into autopilot instead of mindful decision making.
Best practice:
Conduct a formal “peak season safety and stress reset” at the start of your busiest period. Supervisors review which tasks are most likely to be rushed and openly acknowledge the pressures teams are feeling. Naming both the safety risks and the mental load upfront increases awareness and makes it easier for employees to slow down and speak up when pressure builds.
2. Fatigue: The Risk Everyone Sees but Rarely Manages
Long days, overtime, and fewer days off are common when demand spikes. Fatigue doesn’t just affect the body—it affects concentration, emotional regulation, and judgment. Tired workers are more likely to make mistakes, take risks, or disengage altogether. Yet fatigue is often treated as a personal issue rather than an operational and mental health concern.
Best practice:
Manage fatigue as a shared responsibility, not a performance flaw. Watch for cognitive and behavioural warning signs such as irritability, confusion, short tempers, or loss of focus. Rotate physically demanding tasks, adjust overtime where possible, and check in with employees—especially new or temporary workers—who may be less comfortable admitting they are struggling.
they don’t yet recognize—or feel stressed trying to keep up without fully understanding expectations.
Best practice:
Separate “must know” safety training from “can learn later” skills. Yard traffic rules, equipment hazards, and stop work authority must be covered and demonstrated on Day One. Just as important, reinforce that asking questions and slowing down are signs of responsibility—not weakness.
4. From Training Attendance to Competency Verification
Signing off on training forms does not guarantee safe performance—especially under pressure. Employees may understand procedures in theory but struggle to apply them during busy, high stress moments when confidence is still developing.
Best practice: Verify competency in real conditions. Supervisors should observe new hires performing tasks during actual operations and ask them to explain the hazards and controls in their own words. Short, frequent check ins build both skill and psychological safety, reducing anxiety and preventing errors before they escalate.
5. Supervisors Set the Tone
Employees pay close attention to how supervisors behave when things get hectic. If leaders bypass safety steps—or dismiss fatigue and stress to maintain output—that behaviour quickly becomes the norm. Conversely, leaders who remain calm, present, and consistent help regulate the entire team.
Best practice:
Increase supervisor presence during high risk hours, not just during safety meetings. Walking the yard during peak loading times, reinforcing expectations in real moments, and having brief, human check ins sends a strong signal: safety and mental well being still matter, even when it’s busy.
3. Hiring Fast Without Lowering the Safety Bar Labour shortages force many dealers to onboard employees while workloads are already heavy. In these situations, training is often rushed or overlooked, increasing the risk that new hires are exposed to hazards
A Different Measure of Peak Season Success Peak season success isn’t defined solely by volume moved or orders filled. It’s reflected in how work gets done under pressure—and whether people go home not only physically safe, but mentally intact at the end of each shift. By recognizing how stress, fatigue, and rapid onboarding affect both safety and well being, you can protect your workforce and your assets without compromising performance.
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Registration is now open for our Cornhole This will be
and Golf Tou en . a two-day event you won’t want to miss!
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JULY 15 – 2PM TO 8PM LY
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SHOTGUNSTART: 11AM OTGUN START: M
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Teams of 4 people ( 20teams)
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egister (max 20 teams)
Teams of 4 people (max 36 teams)
Registration price is $175 per person
Register now before we fill up: www.absda.ca
Registration price is
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Members, Exhibitors, Sponsors and Friends
The ABSDA EXPO 2026 once again brought our industry together—stronger, more connected, and focused on the opportunities ahead.
From the energy of the Meet & Greet, to an unforgettable Gala, to a high-impact EXPO floor filled with innovation and business activity, this year’s event delivered meaningful value for members, exhibitors, and sponsors alike.
Over 180 exhibitor brands represented - Total booth spaces sold 251 (up 4% over 2025)
Total of 287 Member Retail Locations were represented at Expo 2026, for a total of 82% of the
(ABSDA Retail Membership has 352 Member Locations Total)
ABSDA Post – Expo Survey Feedback
Exhibitor Feedback
(Based on 109 respondents)
•91% of exhibitors indicated a “Good” or “Excellent” Expo experience
• 75% of exhibitors reported that they generated sales
•35% of exhibitors reported they exceed sales compared to Expo 2025
• 50% of exhibitors reported they matched sales of Expo 2025
• 96% of exhibitors indicated they are returning for Expo 2027
Dealer Feedback
(Based on 75 respondents)
• 92% of Dealers indicated a “Good” or “Excellent” rating for Expo experience
• 82% of Dealers respondents said they made purchases
• 29% of Dealers indicated they increased their purchases in 2026 compared to 2025
• 61% matched Expo 2025 purchases
Celebrating Success in Sales and Service ABSDA AWARDS
The ABSDA Awards celebrate outstanding achievement, leadership, and commitment across our industry.
We proudly recognize this year’s recipients for their contributions and dedication to excellence. Their success reflects the strength, professionalism, and innovation that define our Industry.
Young Leader of the Year
Salesperson of the Year
Retailer of the Year
Bennett’s Hardware & Building Centre Inc.
Zachary
Brett McKinnon Westman Steel
Sponsored by
Rebecca Pike Pike’s Home Hardware
John Bauld
Left to right:
Jay Milton, Gillfor/ABSDA Chair
Rebecca Pike - Pike’s Home Hardware
Bannister - Extreme Windows & Entrance Systems
Left to right: Jay Milton, Gillfor/ABSDA Chair
Left to right: Jay Milton, Gillfor/ABSDA Chair
John Bauld - Doman
Dan Hardy - Home Hardware
Left to right:
Jay Milton, Gillfor/ABSDA Chair
Brett McKinnon - Westman Steel
Terry Mullock - Castle Building Centres
Left to right:
Jay Milton, Gillfor/ABSDA Chair
Bennett Family - Bennett’s HHBC Carl Ballard - Kohltech
ABSDA Continues to Give Back!
At our recent ABSDA Expo 2026, we proudly continued our tradition of giving back—and once again, our incredible members rose to the occasion.
This year, we were honoured to support two outstanding organizations: the IWK Foundation and the Love, Jayne Foundation
A special thank you to our master ticket sales champion, Steve Foran, who once again went above and beyond selling draw tickets with his signature enthusiasm which raised $12 000.00
Combined with the generosity of members who contributed an additional $28 000 in donations, we are thrilled to share that a total of $40,000 was raised.
These funds will be equally shared between both charities, helping them continue their important work in our communities.
To our members—thank you. Your generosity and spirit are what make the ABSDA community so special.
Below is a list of Company donors:
PLATINUM DIAMOND
Honouring Connie: 26 Years of Dedication to the ABSDA
Today, we celebrate an incredible career and extend our heartfelt thanks to Connie on her retirement after 26 years as ABSDA’s Manager of Accounting & Events.
Connie has been a cornerstone of the ABSDA family—bringing dedication, care, and professionalism to everything she has done. Her impact on our organization and our members is lasting, and she will be deeply missed by the entire ABSDA community.
While it’s never easy to say goodbye, we are excited for Connie as she begins this well-deserved next chapter—spending more time with her growing family and grandchildren, enjoying time with her husband Camille, making memories with loved ones, relaxing with a good book, days on the boat, and of course, the occasional glass of wine.
Thank you, Connie, for 26 years of commitment, friendship, and leadership.
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and fulfilling retirement—you’ve certainly earned it!
Business Insurance Solutions
Endorsed & Preferred Broker Business Partner for the ABSDA
ABSDA proudly endorses PIB | Navacord as our preferred Broker Business Partner, for business insurance, employee benefits and wealth management solutions.
Supporting the long-term strength and growth of our member businesses remains a top priority. To that end, we carefully align with service providers who bring both deep expertise and proven value. PIB | Navacord Insurance stands out for its client-focused approach, strong industry knowledge, and ability to deliver comprehensive insurance solutions across all areas of business protection.
With over 45 years of experience supporting the hardware and building supply industry, PIB | Navacord Insurance brings a deep understanding of sector-specific risks and insurance needs, delivering comprehensive, customized solutions across all areas of coverage.
PIB | Navacord provides scalable insurance and financial solutions tailored to businesses of all sizes. Through this strategic partnership, ABSDA members have access to:
• Commercial Business Insurance
• Group Benefits
• Group Retirement
• Wealth Management
• Life & Health Insurance
• Personal Insurance
I encourage all ABSDA members — including hardware industry banners, vendors, and suppliers — to connect with The Bedford East Coast Team to learn how PIB | Navacord can support and protect the success of your business.
Sincerely,
Denis Melanson President, ABSDA
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Industry News
SEND US YOUR INDUSTRY NEWS
If you have industry news you want to spread around our network – send it in to us. New appointments or retirements; new aquisitions or expansions, anything that’s important to you is probably important to our Members. Pictures are always great too. Email Terry at leblanc@absda.ca.
Building Products of Canada/Certainteed Roofing –Atlantic Region
I am very pleased to announce an enhanced role for Kevin Arseneau in the Atlantic Region. In addition to his territory management of New Brunswick and PEI Kevin will provide leadership, coaching and support to his Regional peers. His new title being Senior Territory Manager - Atlantic Canada. Also Kevin will provide assistance to myself in the execution of our strategic plan and our aggressive growth targets.
Kevin has proven himself to be a valuable partner to his customers and exhibits passion on the overall success of the business.
Please join me in congratulating Kevin for this new enhanced roll wishing him all the success in the future.
Peter Bethune Regional Manager, Atlantic Region
A CENTURY IN MILLWORK DOESN’T HAPPEN BY CHANCE.
It takes employees who care, customers who want to build better, and a network of partners who believe in doing things the right way. Those partnerships and the expertise have shaped Metrie through decades of change — and it’s the same spirit that’s moving us into the next century.
Looking ahead, we’re doubling down on what matters most, supporting your success with smarter systems and sharper solutions so you can move faster and go further. It’s a commitment built on trust. Here’s to where we’ve been, and where we’re headed together.
WELCOME TO THE NEXT 100.
ABSDA New team member
Please join us in welcoming Cindy Basque to the ABSDA team!
Cindy will be stepping into the role of Manager, Accounting & Events, taking over from Connie as she begins her well-earned retirement a er many years of dedicated service. We are excited to have Cindy on board and look forward to the experience, energy, and perspective she brings to the organization.
Cindy will play a key role in supporting our members, managing our nancial operations, and helping deliver the events and initiatives that keep our association strong and connected.
Members are encouraged to reach out and connect with Cindy as she settles into her new role.
Welcome to the team, Cindy—we’re glad to have you with us!
Scan the QR code to view our moulding and door assortment.
Ideal Roo ng is pleased to announce the appointment of Malcolm Mitchell as your Architectural and Technical Sales Representative for your territory.
As part of our continued commitment to strengthening customer support, Ideal Roo ng has added a second sales representative and our rst dedicated Architectural/Technical Sales Representative. Malcolm will be calling on engineers, architects, and developers throughout the Maritimes. He will also be responsible for all industrial, commercial, and Steel Service Centre accounts in New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.
Malcolm brings many years of experience as a technical representative within the construction and building industry. Over the coming weeks, he will be reaching out and visiting to introduce himself personally.
Malcolm o cially joined Ideal Roo ng on February 17th, 2026. He can be reached directly at 506-380-8123 or by email at mmitchell@idealroo ng.ca.
KM Agency is pleased to announce the addition of Jason Terry to their sales team.
Jason joined KM Agency in March and will initially take over a portion of the Nova Scotia territory. Originally from Ontario, he relocated to Nova Scotia to attend Saint Mary’s University, where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Marketing. Following graduation, Jason built a strong foundation in sales through a series of roles with Bell Canada, most recently serving as a Territory Account Manager with State Chemical. Jason resides in Middle Sackville, Nova Scotia with his wife and two young children.
Welcome to the KM Agency team and the ABSDA family.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
ABSDA Annual General Meeting Notice - Save the Date
ABSDA will be holding its Annual General Meeting this June, and we encourage all members to take part in shaping the direction of your association.
Date: June 24
Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Delta Hotel – 240 Brownlow Avenue, Dartmouth, NS is is your opportunity to stay informed, share input, and connect with fellow members as we continue to move the association forward.
Please con rm your attendance by registering via email at melanson@absda.ca.
We look forward to seeing you there.
BMR Appoints New Business Development Manager
BMR is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Andrew Jessome to the position of Business Development Manager.
Mr. Jessome brings over 25 years of experience in sales, operations, and business development within the building materials industry, across both Canada and the United States. Prior to joining BMR, he held several leadership positions at Metrie where he notably led sales and operations teams and contributed to the growth of strategic markets.
In his new role, he will take an active part in expanding the network in the Maritimes and identifying new business opportunities.
Industry News (cont’d)
Congratulations Ken on 20 remarkable years.
Celebrating 20 Years of Leadership and the Success of Castle
e Castle family is honoured to recognize President & CEO Ken Jenkins as he marks 20 years with Castle Building Centres Group.
Ken’s leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment have helped shape the success, direction, and continued growth of our network.
His guidance played an integral role in shaping Castle’s evolution, guiding the group with clarity and purpose.
Ken’s in uence continues to drive momentum and inspiring what comes next. is milestone is a re ection of not only years, but of impact.
Hardlines announces ownership transition
Hardlines Inc. has announced a change in ownership and leadership, with David Chestnut (shown in the attached photo at right) purchasing the company from founder and president Michael McLarney (le ) and assuming the role of president. A longtime business partner, Chestnut previously served as vicepresident and publisher and has been with Hardlines since 2016, playing a key role in growing advertising revenues and building strategic partnerships across the home improvement industry.
Founded more than 30 years ago by McLarney, Hardlines has evolved from a weekly fax newsletter into a leading multiplatform source of news, research, and networking for Canada’s home improvement sector. Chestnut will continue to build on that legacy, overseeing Hardlines’ agship publications, magazines, and the annual Hardlines Conference, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this October in Ottawa. McLarney will remain involved as editor-at-large.
Congratulations David.
Castle
Our members make up a growing network of independent retailers nationwide who are the pillars of their communities and understanding their unique needs is what we are all about. The Castle business model offers members an unwavering commitment to their success along with the freedom to build their own story.
Find out why more and more independents are making the move to Castle. We Build Communities.
