Building Supply News May 2026 Web

M ay 20 26 • Volume 4 3, N° 2

INSIDE

INSIDE

Economic Outlook 2026

RECAP

41290029

Working for our members everyday.

So you can focus on what matters most — your business.

“Being a part of Sexton Group has significantly 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 offer are incredibly beneficial, 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!”

Our Promise to You: We help members succeed through advocacy, competitive programs, and transactional excellence—resolving issues fast, securing regional pricing advantages, and delivering the fastest rebates in the industry.

Markus Lange, EG Penner Building Centre

Join Canada’s leading lumber & building supply network.

Visit www.sextongroup.com or call 1-800-665-9209.

2

May 2026

M ay 20 26 • Volume 4 3, N° 2

The ABSDA Building Supply News is the official magazine of the Atlantic Building Supply Dealers Association and is published in February, May, July and September. The Atlantic Building Supply News is distributed to all ABSDA Dealer and Associate Members.

The ABSDA office is located at: 70 Englehart Street, Dieppe, NB, E1A 8H3 Phone: (506) 858-0700 Email: info@absda.ca

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.

ABSDA Executive 2026-2027

Chair Jay Milton Gillfor Distribution Dartmouth, NS (902) 434-8200

Past Chair Tanya Hanson Rocca Roblynn Home Hardware Building Centre Oromocto, NB (506) 446-6824

Vice Chair Duane MacDonald Callbecks Home Hardware Building Centre Summerside, PEI (902) 436-1100

President Denis Melanson ABSDA Dieppe, NB (506) 858-0700

Since 1955 this Association has focused on industry specific needs to our Members.

features EXPO RECAP

Economic Outlook

6 12

in this issue 4

Chair’s Message

6

President’s Message

8 HR Insights 10 ABSDA Summer Event

ABSDA Dealer Directors 2026– 2027

Dawn McKay TNT Insulation & Building Supplies Keswick Ridge, NB (506) 363-5747

Nick Thebeau Targetts Castle Window & Door Centre Fredericton, NB (506) 444-8777

Deborah Brinson Gander Bay Building Supplies Victoria Cove, NL (709) 676-2992

Stephen Rector Island Home Hardware Grand Manan, NB (506) 662-8308

Tim Sabean Wilson’s Hardware Limited Digby, NS (902) 245-4731

12

EXPO Recap

18 22 Industry News

Honouring Connie

ABSDA Associate Directors 2026-2027

Jeff Peddigrew Marwood Fredericton, NB (506) 478-2130

Kyle Crook Kohltech Debert, NS (902) 222-2395

Dominic LeBlanc Alexandria Moulding Alexandria, ON (506) 380-4396

Sheldon Atkinson Gentek Moncton, NB (506) 232-8485

ABSDA Building Supply News

3

A Year Flies By: Gratitude, Growth, and What’s Next for ABSDA As I enter the final 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 fly when you’re fully engaged in work that matters and having fun doing it!

Jay Milton Chair of the Board

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 4

May 2026

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.

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

A SIGNATURE TO BE PROUD OF When trust is on the line, every detail matters. Signature shingles are engineered for durability, performance, and style, even in Canada’s toughest conditions. With proven technology and premium colour blends, you deliver more than a roof — you give your clients peace of mind.

Signature. Because peace of mind starts at the top.

ABSDA Building Supply News

5

President’s Message – Spring 2026 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.

Denis Melanson President

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.

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 Margin management is also back in focus. As the environment may be more complex than in past cycles, it is also full of opportunity competitive pressures re-emerge in certain categories, protecting profitability will depend for those who are prepared. I encourage all members to take a proactive approach— less on price alone and more on the overall review your inventory strategies, invest in your value delivered to customers. Expertise, people, and stay engaged with the resources service levels, and operational efficiency available to you through ABSDA. are once again key differentiators. Strategic quoting, particularly on larger projects, We look forward to supporting you through a will be critical as members navigate tighter safe, productive, and successful spring season. spreads and more informed buyers.

Denis Melanson, Equally important is workforce readiness.

The spring season places immediate pressure President 6

May 2026

“

Being a part of such a wholesome brand is what means the most to me when I get up in the morning and put the red shirt on.

”

Shaun White

Store Owner Paradise, NL

100% Canadian.

100% Dealer-owned and operated.

When you join the Home Hardware family, you become part of a tight-knit community that’s free from the pressures of external shareholders. Gain access to a trusted brand with personalized resources dedicated to helping your unique business thrive, plus a coastto-coast Dealer network ready to back you every step of the way.

Scan to learn more ABSDA Building Supply News

7

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 Patrick Goguen to work faster and longer, often with newer or less Director, Training and experienced team members. Under these conditions, safety doesn’t disappear, but it does quietly erode Workforce Development 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 You Need To Find Out Why Jo a B ner where comfortable admitting Castle is Canada’s Fastest Growing LBM & Commercial they are struggling.

Buying Group!

Contact your regional Castle 3. Hiring Fast Without Business Development Manager Lowering the Safety Bar Labour shortages force many dealers to onboard employees while workloads are already heavy. In these situations, training is often rushed Terry Mulock Brian Warr Richard Hamel or overlooked, increasing (709) 770-5607 (902) 471-3985 (418) 520-6244 the risk that new hires bwarr@castle.ca tmulock@castle.ca rhamel@castle.ca are exposed to hazards NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR

8

May 2026

NOVA SCOTIA, NEW BRUNSWICK & PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

EASTERN QUÉBEC & NORTHERN NEW BRUNSWICK

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.

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.

• Free, Cloud Based, Personalized Software • Integrated Pricing and Inventory Lists • Quick Product Changes • Realistic 3D Renderings • Order Builder • Lead Generator • Accurate Material Lists • Installation Guides • And Much More

DISCOVER REGAL IDEAS

more ideas at regalideas.com ABSDA Building Supply News

9

Summer Blast!

Annual An Ann nua nu ual al

Registration is now open for our Cornhole and Golf Tou T Tournament. rnament. two-d w wo-d a event ay even ev vent you y won’t w ’t want to miss! won This will be a two-day

Cornhole Tou To Tournament ourn urna rnam ame men en ntt

Golf G lf Tournament Tournam

JULY LY 16 – RE L REGISTRATION: GISTRAT A ION: 10 AT 10AM SHOTGUN SHO SH OTGUN START: ST TA ART: 11AM 11AM FOX F OX CRE O CREEK EK GOLF CLUB, B, DIEPPE DIEP EPP

JULY LY 15 – 2PM TO 8PM L

Teams T Te ams of 4 people (max (max 2 20 0 teams) teamss) s) Teams of 4 people (max 36 teams) Registration price is $175 per person Registration price is $700 per team $375 per person $1500 per team

Registerr n now ow w before befo f re we fill up: www.absda.ca

NEWAT M FOR

NTS E V E BOTH T

O D L O S

10

May 2026

U

ABSDA Building Supply News

11

Members, Exhibitors, Sponsors and Friends

Thank you to all

2026

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.

VENDOR PARTICIPATION

Over 180 exhibitor brands represented - Total booth spaces sold 251 (up 4% over 2025)

DEALER PARTICIPATION

Total of 287 Member Retail Locations were represented at Expo 2026, for a total of 82% of the Membership.

Total Stores Represented NB 89

NS 119

PEI 21

NL 58

(ABSDA Retail Membership has 352 Member Locations Total) NB Retail Members

NS Retail Members

75%

93%

Participated in Expo 2026

Participated in Expo 2026

PEI Retail Members

100% Participated in Expo 2026

Exhibitor Feedback

Dealer Feedback

•

•

• • • •

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

• • •

Halifax Convention Centre

May 2026

Participated in Expo 2026

(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

SAVE THE DATE - EXPO 2027 - March 3 & 4 12

68% Snow storm in Newfoundland affected several participants ability to make it to the EXPO.

ABSDA Post – Expo Survey Feedback (Based on 109 respondents)

NL Retail Members

ARBEC FOREST PRODUCTS INC. (OSB)

www.arbec.ca

© 2022 Arbec Forest Products Inc.

ABSDA Building Supply News

13

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.

Salesperson of the Year

Young Leader of the Year

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

Rebecca Pike Pike’s Home Hardware

Brett McKinnon Westman Steel

Bennett’s Hardware & Building Centre Inc.

Left to right: Jay Milton, Gillfor/ABSDA Chair Rebecca Pike - Pike’s Home Hardware Zachary Bannister - Extreme Windows & Entrance Systems

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

Lifetime Member Award

Sponsored by

14

Retailer of the Year

May 2026 2026

Industry Achievement Award

Sponsored by

Peter Korecki

John Bauld

Left to right: Jay Milton, Gillfor/ABSDA Chair Peter Korecki - Eastcut Greg Gardenits - Westman Steel

Left to right: Jay Milton, Gillfor/ABSDA Chair John Bauld - Doman Dan Hardy - Home Hardware

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:

BMR Castle Twin River Home Builders Sexton Taiga Extreme Windows & Entrances Gillfor Distribution KM Agency Kohltech Windows & Entrances Marwood / Cape Cod Midland Power Peter Merrill Targett’s Castle Building Centre

$ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ 2,500 $ 2,500 $ 1,000 $ 1,000 $ 1,000 $ 1,000 $ 1,000 $ 1,000 $ 1,000 $ 1,000

TOTAL RAISED

$40,000 2026

ABSDA Building Supply News

15

PLATINUM

TM

DIAMOND

GOLD

16

May 2026

ABSDA Building Supply News

17

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!

18

May 2026

Business Insurance Solutions

Endorsed by

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

“Discover the advantage of group buying power”

PIB’s East Coast Team Suite 116 - 200 Waterfront Drive, Bedford, Nova Scotia B4A 4J4 Phone: 1-866-742-7926 or 902-446-4494 www.pib.com ABSDA Building Supply News

19

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 – ABSDA New team member Atlantic Region Please join us in welcoming Cindy Basque to the ABSDA team!

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.

Cindy will be stepping into the role of Manager, Accounting & Events, taking over from Connie as she begins her well-earned retirement after 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.

Kevin has proven himself to be a valuable partner to his customers and exhibits passion on the overall success of the business.

Cindy will play a key role in supporting our members, managing our financial operations, and helping deliver the events and initiatives that keep our association strong and connected.

Please join me in congratulating Kevin for this new enhanced roll wishing him all the success in the future.

Members are encouraged to reach out and connect with Cindy as she settles into her new role.

Peter Bethune Regional Manager, Atlantic Region

Welcome to the team, Cindy—we’re glad to have you with us!

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.

Scan the QR code to view our moulding and door assortment.

20

May 2026

30

DAVID CHURCHILL

CHURCH HILL’S HHBC BAY ROBERTS NEWFOUNDLAND

YOUR SUPPLIER FOR ALL YOUR LUMBER BUILDING MATERIAL STORAGE AND MERCHANDISING NEEDS INFO@AUTOSTAK.CA | WWW.AUTOSTAK.COM | 1-888-318-0141 ABSDA Building Supply News

21

Industry News (cont’d) Ideal Roofing Hires Architectural/Technical Sales Representative Ideal Roofing 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 Roofing has added a second sales representative and our first 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 officially joined Ideal Roofing on February 17th, 2026. He can be reached directly at 506-380-8123 or by email at mmitchell@idealroofing.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.

22

May 2026

Window’s Best Friend Tough Flashing Protection that Outsmarts Water Une protection de solin résistante qui déjoue l‘eau

Protection for Corners and Curves Protection pour les coins et les courbes

Sealing for Heads and Jambs Scellement pour les têtes et les jambages

The Proven Performance Package Le forfait de performance éprouvé www.dupont.ca/building

"DuPont believes this information to be reliable. It may be subject to change as additional knowledge and experience are gained. It is not intended as a substitute for any testing you may conduct to determine for yourself the suitability of our products and information for your particular purpose. Since conditions for use are outside the DuPont’s control, DUPONT DE NEMOURS, INC. AND ITS AFFILIATES MAKE NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND ASSUMES NO LIABILITY IN CONNECTION WITH ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT AND INFORMATION. This information is not intended as a license to operate under or a recommendation to infringe any trademark, patent or technical information of DuPont or other persons covering any material or its use. ©2025 DuPont. All rights reserved. DuPont™, the DuPont Oval Logo, and all trademarks and service marks denoted with ™, SM or ® are owned by affiliates of DuPont de Nemours, Inc. unless otherwise noted."

ABSDA Building Supply News

23

Industry News (cont’d) 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.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Date: June 24 Time: 8:30 AM Location: Delta Hotel – 240 Brownlow Avenue, Dartmouth, NS This is your opportunity to stay informed, share input, and connect with fellow members as we continue to move the association forward.

Please confirm 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.

THE MOST COMPLETE RANGE OF PRODUCTS ON THE MARKET Made locally in McAdam!

Full Product Line. One Trusted Partner.

Pipes from 4 to 60’’ - for every application HDPE, CSP & ASP culverts - the right material, everytime Nonwoven geotextiles - filtration, separation, drainage One complete solution - built for every project Sustainable by design - featuring recycled HDPE solutions

SOLENO.COM 24

May 2026

|

1.800.363.1471

RELIABLE AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICE 30 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE AND SERVICE

At Garon Distribution, we collaborate with renowned suppliers to offer you superior quality materials.

FOR 30 YEARS, we have listened to your needs to offer you adapted solutions, personalized service and an incomparable choice.

Boost your purchases Increase your revenue

KEY SUPPLIERS

Your satisfaction is our priority.

YEARS

1 800 371-4848

ABSDA Building Supply News

25

Industry News (cont’d)

Advertisers Index Celebrating 20 Years of Leadership and the Success of Castle The 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 influence continues to drive momentum and inspiring what comes next. This milestone is a reflection of not only years, but of impact.

Congratulations Ken on 20 remarkable years.

Alexandria Moulding www.alexandriamoulding.com ARBEC www.arbec.ca Autostak www.autostak.com Building Products of Canada Corp. www.bpcan.com Big Foot www.bigfootsystems.com Castle Building Centres https://youarethebrand.ca/ Dupont www.dupont.com Garon www.garon.ca Gillfor www.gillfor.com Henkel www.henkel.com Home Hardware Stores Ltd. www.homehardware.ca Kohltech www.kohltech.com Metrie www.metrie.com PIB www.pib.com Regal Ideas www.regalideas.com Sexton Group Ltd. www.sextongroup.com Soleno www.soleno.com Westman Steel westmansteel.com

26 13 21 5 10 OBC & 9 23 25 11 IBC 7 22 20 19 9 IFC 24 17

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 (left) 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’ flagship 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.

26

May 2026

Choose Alexandria.

We are more than moulding.

We are your project partner.

alexandriamoulding.com

ABSDA Building Supply News

27

Castle is the fastest growing member-owned, Lumber and Building Materials buying group in Canada!

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.

NOTRE DAME AGENCIES LEWISPORTE, NL

CHESTER BUILDING SUPPLIES CHESTER, NOVA SCOTIA

NOVA SCOTIA BUILDING SUPPLIES BLOCKHOUSE, NS

MACCALLUM BUILDING SUPPLIES MIRAMICHI, NEW BRUNSWICK

J.T. SWYERS BUILDING CENTRE BONAVISTA, NEWFOUNDLAND

SPRING VALLEY BUILDING CENTRE KENSINGTON, PEI

Discover Why Castle is the Fastest Growing LBM & Commercial Buying Group in Canada Contact your regional Castle Business Development Manager

Terry Mulock

Brian Warr

NEW BRUNSWICK, NOVA SCOTIA & PEI

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR

902-471-3985 | tmulock@castle.ca

709-770-5607 | bwarr@castle.ca

SCAN THE QR CODE

youarethebrand.ca