One Company, One Plan, One Culture
A MESSAGE FROM RAY MANCINI, JR. CEO
“Build trust by being honest, respectful and dependable. Treat customers like partners and co-workers like teammates. As a sales rep, your best attribute is your character. As they say, do the right thing when no one is looking.”– Rich VanBuskirk, Jr.
Ray Mancini, Jr. CEO
This quote, attributed to Rich VanBuskirk, one of our Sales managers, was shared during a sales meeting. One purpose of the meeting was to reinforce our values, particularly the importance of being a good human. This quote is applicable to any functional area, such as sales, customer service, or transportation, as it emphasizes treating people with respect.
In essence, customers and colleagues are part of the same team because we treat customers as partners and colleagues as teammates. Therefore, we can view ourselves as one team working together to create the Ultimate Customer eXperience for our customers’ customer. By consistently striving to do the right thing, regardless of the circumstances, we can ensure our success.
At the core of being a good human is having character, being respectful of others, and being
dependable. Rich VanBuskirk’s emphasis on doing the right thing even when no one is observing underscores the importance of integrity in all aspects of our lives. By embodying these values, we can contribute to the overall success of our organization.
I have consistently emphasized the importance of selecting the right individuals to perform the right tasks. While this may seem straightforward, it is crucial to maintain simplicity in our approach.
As we enter the fourth quarter, let us embrace our value of being a good human. By doing so, we can enhance our success and create a more enjoyable work environment for everyone. As always, we express our gratitude for your contributions and are committed to achieving a strong finish to the year. Thank you.
“If it is to be it is up to me.”
OUR VALUES IN ACTION
VALUE ICONS
At UCX, we’re more than just a flooring distributor. We’re a team dedicated to empowering our employees, fostering a positive work environment, embracing change, going the extra mile, collaborating effectively, and celebrating our successes. These core values guide our decisions and actions every day.
Take Ownership
We take accountability and personal responsibility in a high-energy, self-sufficient culture. We take action and make things happen.
Be a Good Human
We act with honesty, integrity, transparency, empathy, respect, reliability, and inclusivity.
Be Adaptive to Change
We understand that change is the only constant and that embracing change is an opportunity to evolve.
Values in Action
Go the Extra Mile
Jose Bedoya consistently goes above and beyond in his role. His proactive mindset, leadership, and a customer-first approach make him a standout example of what UCX represents.
Jose’s commitment to our Mission— to empower a high-performing team aligned to exceed customer expectations—is clear in his actions. He takes the initiative to send out a weekly letter to his customers. This not only shows proactive communication but also a sincere commitment to keeping our clients informed and supported.
His work also brings our Vision—delivering the ultimate flooring experience together—to life in every interaction, whether with customers or colleagues.
Jose truly exemplifies UCX’s Core Values in his day-to-day work:
` Customer Focus: Jose consistently puts customer needs first, ensuring they feel informed, valued, and supported.
` Integrity: He builds trust through honesty, transparency, and ethical decision-making.
` Accountability: Jose takes full ownership of his work and consistently delivers high-quality results.
` Innovation: His self-initiated customer communication is a creative way to enhance the customer experience.
Go the Extra Mile
We plan to win and maintain market leadership. That determination helps us push through when things get tough or we hit unexpected barriers.
Collaborate & Communicate
We prioritize collaboration and communication because they drive performance, momentum and innovation—and stop us from being complacent.
Celebrate Success
We judge success by what we collectively achieve. By marking our successes, we reinforce what makes us strong.
` Collaboration: By sharing best practices and leading by example, he supports his peers and uplifts the entire team.
Jose’s dedication to excellence and embodiment of our mission, vision, and values make him highly deserving of this recognition.
– Joey Howard, Account Executive
Collaborate & Communicate
Cyndi Bauman, the Supply Center Manager in Orchard Park, NY, is the definition of dedication and leadership. With more than 30 years at UCX—starting back with Tiles International—Cyndi continues to embody our values every single day. She is being recognized for her incredible ability to juggle it all, with her coworkers giving her the title of “queen of multitasking.” Cyndi knows the business inside and out and takes pride in caring for every contractor, designer, and end-user that walks through her doors.
Cyndi also sets the tone for her team, treating employees like family while inspiring them to perform at their very best. Her leadership, heart, and drive make her an irreplaceable part of the UCX family.
– Barb Reformat, Showroom Sales Associate, Buffalo, NY
Jose Bedoya
Cyndi Bauman
Take Ownership
Meet Lisa Dill, whom many proudly call “the face of the Woburn, MA location.” Lisa is the go-to person for customers and colleagues alike, known for her deep product knowledge, dedication, and ability to make every project run smoothly.
Many customers choose to work exclusively with Lisa on their tile and wood projects because they trust her expertise and commitment. Beyond managing the busy Woburn showroom, she also stepped up to oversee the ceramic sample department for the entire Northeast.
From ordering commercial sub boards and folders for over 150 lines to ensuring top-line samples are always stocked and ready, Lisa keeps the Northeast commercial team running strong. She truly is the epitome of what UCX stands for!
– Cristan Landry, A&D Specialist, Northeast
This month, we’re proud to recognize Deb Fishell, our HR Support Specialist at the front desk in Glen Burnie, MD, for consistently bringing the UCX values to life.
Deb is being recognized for her outstanding work hosting the UCX Alliance Advisory Council in Glen Burnie. She played a key role in creating a professional and positive experience for all, from warmly welcoming guests and decorating the meeting rooms with her own flowers, to ensuring every detail ran smoothly.
As the first face many people see when they arrive at our Glen Burnie location, she sets a fantastic tone with her friendly greetings and helpful spirit. She brings joy to everyone in the Glen Burnie office by using her decorating skills to make their workspace inviting and beautiful!
Beyond her front-desk role, she’s a vital team member who coordinates meetings and visits, and contributes her talents to the UCX Insider Newsletter Committee.
Thank you, Deb, for your dedication to making every interaction a true reflection of the ultimate customer experience.
TALKING SHOP
– Brian Green, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for North America HUMAN RESOURCES
FRIENDLY REMINDERS FROM HUMAN RESOURCES:
You can view all of UCX’s open positions on the ADP website. To do so on the home page, go to Myself > Career Center. This will bring you to a list of open positions and you can click on them to see the location and to view details about the position.
If you are enrolled in the Blue Solutions HSA medical plan, have you used BlueCare Connect to check the balance on your HSA? Can’t find your HSA card? Order a new one on BlueCare Connect. When you put money into your HSA, you get a triple tax advantage:
` The money you put in may reduce your taxable income
` Interest you earn in an HSA is tax-free
` The money isn’t taxed when you spend it on qualified medical expenses.
You are allowed to change the amount you contribute to your HSA using the self-service option in ADP
Lisa Dill
Deb Fishell
WELLNESS
Mindful Mondays:
Unwind and uplift with 15 minute mindfulness breaks that give you the time and space to de-stress, find focus, and boost your sense of wellbeing! Every 4th Monday of the month, at 12:30 ET
October 27th - Chair Yoga for Health
Improve your health with a chair yoga session that enhances strength, flexibility, and postural balance. Click here to register.
November 24th - Self-Compassion Meditation
Revisit the practice of self-compassion meditation to recharge your mind and body. Click here to register.
Wellness Wednesdays
December 22nd - Guided Stretch Break
End the year with a 15-minute stretch break to promote better focus and mindfulness. This session will guide you through effective movements to refresh and reset your mind and body. Click here to register
You work hard, and we want to ensure you’re able to find time to get trusted tips and resources to protect your health. Every 2nd Wednesday of the month, at 12pm ET
November 12th - Shop & Cook to Prevent Diabetes
Healthy eating starts with healthy shopping. Learn and develop your own strategies for grocery shopping and cooking for better health. Click here to register.
December 10th - Save More, Spend Less
From exercising on a budget to food shopping to budget-friendly self-care ideas, you’ll learn how to spend less so you can save more. Click here to register.
Finding Support When You Need It
Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, from daily stress to major life changes. If you or a family member needs support, The Hartford offers Ability Assist® Counseling Services, powered by ComPsych® , to help you through it.
Who Can Use This Service?
If you’re covered under a fully-insured group policy or Leave Management services with The Hartford, you and your family—including your spouse and dependents— can access this service anytime.
What’s Included?
Ability Assist provides compassionate support for common challenges, including job pressures, relationships, grief, or disability. The service features:
` Emotional Counseling: You and each of your family members can receive up to three face-to-face emotional counseling sessions per issue, per year. This means each person gets their own dedicated sessions, so you don’t have to share.
` Phone Support: Get professional help by phone for legal, financial, and work-life concerns.
EXTRAS THAT SUPPORT AND ASSIST
For access over the phone, simply call toll-free 800-96-HELPS, (800-964-3577) (Continued on the next page.)
Visit guidanceresources.com to access hundreds of personal health topics and resources for child care, elder care, attorneys or financial planners.
If you’re a first-time user, click on the Register tab.
1. In the Organization Web ID field, enter: HLF902
2. In the Company Name field at the bottom of personalization page enter: ABILI
3. After selecting “Ability Assist program”, create your own confidential username and password
PRODUCTIVITY TIPS
ABILITY ASSIST COUNSELING SERVICES INCLUDE:
` Emotional or Work-Life Counseling
` Financial Information and Resources
` Legal Support and Resources
` Health Care Navigation Services
Reclaiming Your Morning: Simple Hacks for Better Productivity
Do you find yourself reaching for your phone the moment you wake up? While it might seem like a harmless habit, checking your phone first thing in the morning can negatively impact your mental energy and set a negative tone for your entire day. According to an article by Pam Rutledge, simple hacks can help you reclaim your mornings and boost your well-being.
The Downside of “First-Thing” Scrolling Jumping into the day by checking the news, social media, or emails can drain your cognitive energy, leaving you unprepared for the pressures ahead. When we start the day with negative content, such as frustrating news or social media envy, it can create a “halo effect” that undermines our confidence and makes us more irritable or impatient (Rutledge, 2024).
The article also warns against using social media at other times, such as when you are with loved ones, right before bed, or while eating. For example, device use before sleep can suppress melatonin and increase the stress hormone cortisol, making it harder to fall asleep (Figueiro & Rea, 2010).
Small Hacks for Big Changes
To avoid the “first-thing” phone habit, the author suggests trying small, manageable changes. You can set a rule
Footnotes:
to wait until you’ve left the bedroom, had your morning coffee, or spent five minutes reflecting on the day before checking your device. Even simple actions like taking a moment to look outside or go for a walk can be beneficial, as connecting with nature is a powerful stress reliever (Brockis, 2024).
The key is to take charge of your habits by understanding your motivations. By keeping a simple journal of your media use, you can identify patterns that either serve your goals or interfere with them.
The article emphasizes that you own your phone— it doesn’t own you. Setting boundaries and being intentional about your media consumption can help you enjoy the positive aspects of the digital world while minimizing the negative ones (Rutledge, 2024).
• Brockis, J. (2024). The natural advantage: How more time outside reduces stress, improves health and boosts social connection. Major Street Publishing.
• Figueiro, M. G., & Rea, M. S. (2010). The effects of red and blue lights on circadian variations in cortisol, alpha amylase, and melatonin. Int J Endocrinol, 2010, 829351.
• Rutledge, P. (2024, October 7). How morning phone habits shape productivity and well-being. Fielding University. Retrieved from www.fielding.edu/how-morning-phone-habits-shape-productivity-and-well-being
It’s
almost that time of year again . . .
Open Enrollment!
Announcement is coming soon!
Open enrollment in November is an opportunity to make changes to your benefit elections and to review which dependent(s) you will cover.
Elections made during this period will be effective January 1, 2026 and will remain in effect for a 12-month period, unless you experience an IRS- approved “qualifying event”.
Approved qualifying events include:
` Marriage or Divorce
` Death
` Birth or adoption of a dependent
` Change in employment status
` Change in dependent’s eligibility status
` Loss of or significant change to your current coverage
` Judgement, decree of court order
You have 30 days from the date of the event to notify Human Resources.
NEW HIRES
Denaris Comer –
Warehouse Material Handler
Columbus, OH
Denaris joins the team in Columbus, OH with previous experience working in an auto parts warehouse. When not working, he enjoys cooking and is a big sports fan including football, basketball and baseball.
Calvin Watson –
Warehouse Material Handler
Mansfield, MA
Calvin worked in the Mansfield, MA warehouse in 2019-2020 and we were excited to see his application when he applied to a recent opening. When he left - which was then The Belknap White Group, he
went on to work for a Distribution Center as a Team Leader and stayed in that position before returning to UCX. Welcome back, we are happy you returned! When he’s not working Calvin enjoys sports – basketball, football and baseball. He likes going to the movies and plays, and loves music and playing video games as well. He enjoys the outdoors and his electric bike.
Ketena “KJ” Brown –
Warehouse Material Handler
Douglasville, GA
KJ comes to UCX after completing his BA in Sports Management. He is eager to apply his teamwork and problem- solving skills as he joins the team in Douglasville, GA. When he’s not working he enjoys watching college and NFL football and hanging with his dog.
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under
Joseph Dobbs –Warehouse Material Handler
Concord, NC
Joseph, who goes by Jay is working second shift in the Concord, NC warehouse. He comes to us with previous experience in a warehouse environment. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his children ages 3 and 6.
Wilmer Morel – Driver's Helper
Pompton Plains, NJ
We’re happy to introduce the newest member of our team at the Pompton Plains location, Wilmer!
Wilmer is joining us as a Driver’s Helper. He comes to us from the Bronx, with both of his parents originally from the Dominican Republic.
Outside of work, Wilmer is a big sports fan. He roots for the Yankees (baseball) and the Knicks (basketball), and also follows football. When he’s not catching a game, he enjoys going to car meets on the weekends. His musical tastes are diverse, favoring Dembow, Hip Hop, and Bachata.
Harmony Cifuentes – A/P Specialist
Mansfield, MA
Please join us in welcoming Harmony Cifuentes, our new Accounts Payable team member in Mansfield, MA. Harmony brings five years of accounting experience to her role, with a background in the mitigation and construction industries. While this is her first time in the flooring business, she's no stranger to a great team environment. Harmony loves the small-business feel of the Mansfield office and is looking forward to being part of a close-knit group. When she's not at the office, you can find her enjoying live music or spending time in nature.
Nichole Varela – A/R Specialist
Mansfield, MA
Nikki joins UCX with 10+ years in the accounting field starting in collections in 2009 and progressing to accounts receivable. She has worked in many industries from trucking to pool supplies and even electrical, working very hard to achieve her goals. She enjoys being a mom, spending time with family and quiet time relaxing.
Betsy Araujo – A/R Specialist
Mansfield, MA
Betsy comes to us with a background in accounts payable and collections. She enjoys spending time with her daughter and her cat. She also enjoys spending her free time with her loved ones. Betsy is excited to be joining UCX.
Jessica Yates – Account Executive
Tennessee - Mid State
Jessica is a second-generation professional in the flooring industry, returning to the field with a renewed passion and fresh perspective. She’s especially excited to be joining the UCX family alongside her brother, Joey Howard, and is proud to reconnect with her roots while contributing to the industry's future. Known for her positive energy and ability to build strong connections, Jessica is eager to grow with the UCX team and be part of its continued success. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and expressing her creativity through photography.
Heather Berggren –Account Executive
Virginia
Beach, VA
Say hello to Heather Berggren, one of the newest members of the UCX Sales team! She will be covering the Virginia Beach, VA and Outer Banks, NC territories.
Heather is a seasoned professional, bringing 30 years of sales and management expertise to UCX. She most recently came from a role coordinating accounts for a custom home builder.
As for her personal life, Heather is married with five grown children and two beloved dogs. She’s often found enjoying the coastal lifestyle—searching for seashells or photographing her husband surfing— when she’s not planning her next hiking trip. She’s a dedicated movie buff and is on a mission to hike to every major waterfall in the U.S. National Parks!
(Continued on the next page.)
Rashad Dobbs –Warehouse Material Handler
Douglasville, GA
Rashad joins UCX with several years of experience operating forklifts in a warehouse environment. He also has experience in customer service, retail and auto sales. In his free time Rashad enjoys spending time with his friends and family and he is a Super Host on Airbnb. He enjoys traveling, trying out new restaurants, and going to clubs. Rashad love cars and learning how to fix them.
Rakim Belton –Job Site Delivery Driver
Pompton Plains, NJ
Rakim is joining us with a strong passion for driving, having recently earned his Class A CDL with all endorsements. He’s grateful for the opportunity UCX has given him to take the next step in his career journey.
Rakim has clear long-term goals, including growing with the company, eventually buying a home, and retiring with UCX. He looks forward to building a successful future here.
From Markets to Milestones Preparing for a Prosperous Retirement
You are invited to join The Kelliher Corbett Group at Morgan Stanley for the following virtual educational seminars, which may be helpful to your unique financial goals. All sessions are hosted from 12:00 – 1:00 PM ET.
` Thoughts on the Market - October 22, 2025 ` Social Security Strategies for Pre-Retirees - November 13, 2025
ANNIVERSARIES
Laying a Solid Foundation... Congratulations to all our employees celebrating work anniversaries! We appreciate your dedication and hard work. Your contributions are the bedrock of UCX’s success. UCX proudly acknowledges our employees’ dedication with milestone anniversary celebrations, starting at the 5-year mark.
` Steven O’Neill, 45 years, Account Executive, Northeast
` Joseph Corra, 35 years, Account Executive, Northeast
` Enrique Villalba, 20 years, Job Site Delivery Driver, Pompton Plains, NJ
` Lois A. Yankowski, 20 years Inventory Control Area Manager, Glen Burnie, MD
` Brenda M. Cashion, 10 years, Compliance Manager, Texas
` John M. Owens, 5 years, Distribution Manager, Columbus, OH
` Richard C. Freedman, 5 years Account Executive, Mid-Atlantic/Southeast
` Heather M. Blair, 5 years, Customer Service Representative, Glen Burnie, MD
` Juan Martinez, 5 years, Area Manager, Douglasville, GA
FROM THE MARKETING MILLHOUSE
UCX In the News (Media)
Our mission has always been clear: deliver the Ultimate Customer Experience in everything we do—through service, selection, pricing, and delivery. It’s the details that set us apart, and we’re proud to see that commitment recognized.
Floor Covering News recently featured UCX in their article “It’s All About the Experience,” highlighting how our values guide us and how we continue to be a trusted partner for customers and suppliers alike.
Read the full article here
This recognition is a reflection of all of you—our dedicated team members, along with our customers and vendor partners—who make the UCX experience possible every day. Thank you for the role you play in bringing our mission to life!
Our new UCX Around the World spotlight is a section where we celebrate our team’s adventures!
Send us a photo using or wearing your UCX gear on your travels or in your daily life—you might be featured next!
See where UCX gear has been.
1. Anne Kurtz, Zion National Park
2. Millie Rowan North Myrtle Beach, SC
3. Jillian Stworzydlak, Taughanauck Falls, NY
4. Ceasar Medeiros, Portugual
Join UCX in Giving Back This Holiday Season
The holidays are just around the corner and this year, our UCX locations can consider hosting toy and food drives to support local families in need. It’s a wonderful opportunity to come together as a team and make a meaningful difference in our communities.
If you’d like to participate, please reach out to Jillian Stworzydlak for details on how to get started. Locations interested in participating should begin at the beginning of November and will run for the entire month. Each location can choose a charity of their choice to donate what they collect. All donations and participants will be recognized in our November/December newsletter. Every donation—big or small—helps spread cheer and provide comfort during the holiday season.
` Select someone on site to be your donation manager ` Select a charity organization in your community would like to donate to
Let’s show the power of the UCX family by giving back where it matters most!
TECH TALK
IT CORNER
UCX, Show Us Your Community Spirit!
We know our team members are out there making a difference—and we want to hear all about it! Whether you’re coaching a kids’ team, helping at a food pantry, volunteering at an event, or pitching in for a local cause, no act of giving is too big or too small.
Send your story to Insider@ucx.com (and a pic if you’ve got one!) so we can celebrate the awesome ways UCX team members are giving back.
Let’s inspire each other and keep doing good!
Over the past few months, Milt Thacker and the IT team have been hard at work behind the scenes, laying the foundation for a more unified UCX digital environment. One of the biggest milestones is the launch of the new Azure Files project, which brings us closer to having one set of shared drives across the entire company. Recently, another major step was completed: all logins were updated so that everyone now signs in with their UCX email address. While these changes may feel seamless on the surface, they’re part of a much larger initiative—moving UCX toward one network, one Microsoft tenant, and one identity across all locations. By the end of the year, these efforts will come together in a fully merged UCX environment, where you’ll be able to navigate to any office location and remain in the same network using the same set of credentials. Need assistance from
Contact the UCX IT Help Desk by emailing helpdesk@ucx.com or calling 410-762-5655.
If no one is available to take your call, please leave a detailed message — it will be sent directly to the IT Help Desk inbox for follow-up.
Orchard Park (Buffalo), NY
Just outside of Buffalo, you’ll find our UCX Orchard Park branch—home to six dedicated team members who bring the Ultimate Customer Experience to life every day.
Thrilled to share glimpses of our new UCX branding in Buffalo. This space reflects our commitment to innovation and growth, offering an unparalleled environment for our customers to explore possibilities.
Meet the Team
This branch is led by Cyndi Bauman, Supply Center Manager and Jim Przybyl, Assistant Branch Manager, supported by a talented group that includes our Showroom Sales Associate, Samantha Marcantonio and Barb Reformat, and Duncan Campbell, Counter Sales/Warehouse Associate, a Delivery Driver, and Jillian Stworzydlak, Director of Branding and Communications. Together, they operate a ceramic tile and supplies branch with a large ceramic tile showroom, helping customers find the right products while offering exceptional service and expertise.
Orchard Park is in the heart of Bills country. The Bills Training Facility is just down the street, with both the old stadium and the brand-new Highmark Stadium less than two miles away. Locals proudly say this is where the greats are trained!
And, of course, Orchard Park is full of unique Buffalo culture and traditions:
` Food & Flavor: From the birthplace of chicken wings (always with bleu cheese, never ranch!) to Friday night fish fries, Beef on Weck at Danny’s, and Josh Allen’s favorite lemon pepper wings at Bar-Bill Tavern, food is at the heart of the community. Don’t forget a Labatt Blue—brewed right here in Buffalo.
` Neighborhood Spirit: Buffalo is known as the “City of Good Neighbors,” a reputation that rings true in Orchard Park as well.
they need,
` Local Landmarks: From the historic Canalside waterfront to Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural gems to the hidden beauty of the Eternal Flame waterfall, the area is rich in history, culture, and natural wonder.
` Local Lingo: If you’re visiting, be prepared—here it’s “pop,” not soda; “brews,” not beers; and locals joke about “lake effect snow” as a way of life... Good luck pronouncing Scajaquada!
Jim Przybyl ensuring that every customer gets the correct product and professional advice
fast.
Duncan Campbell keeps the warehouse running smoothly.
From Left to Right: Barb Reformat, Jillian Stworzydlak, Duncan Campbell, Samantha Marcantonio, Cyndi Bauman
DISCOVER UCX NORTHEAST
Rochester, NY
With just two employees—Supply Center Manager Rocco Corona and Sales Associate Matthew Proulx— our Rochester branch might be small, but it has a mighty presence in the community. This 15,000-square-foot location features a large retail showroom, specializing in supplies for ceramic, carpet, LVT, and hardwood. Here, our team provides the personal attention and expertise our customers expect. Teamwork is everything for this two-person crew. Rocco and Matthew handle all daily operations, assist customers in the showroom, and ensure every interaction reflects the Ultimate Customer Experience. Their dedication proves that great service doesn't depend on a branch's size—it depends on its people.
The Spirit of Rochester
Rochester is a city of innovation, history, and hearty food traditions:
` Food Culture: If there’s one dish that defines Rochester, it’s the Garbage Plate. Despite the name, this iconic meal is beloved by locals. It starts with macaroni salad and home-fried potatoes, piled high with hamburgers or hot dogs, spicy meat sauce, onions, mustard, and sometimes baked beans. It may sound unusual, but it’s a true Rochester classic.
` Historic Legacy: Rochester was home to abolitionist Frederick Douglass, who lived here from 1847–1872 and used his homes as safehouses on the Underground Railroad. It’s also the hometown of Susan B. Anthony, leader in the women’s suffrage movement. Her gravesite at Mount Hope Cemetery has become a place of tribute—especially on Election Day, when visitors leave “I Voted” stickers in her honor.
` Innovation Hub: Rochester is the birthplace of Xerox and Kodak, companies that shaped the fields of imaging, film, and printing. Kodak film even captured Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the moon.
` Sports Legacy: Rochester is home to the Red Wings, one of baseball’s oldest minor league teams, and once hosted the NBA’s Rochester Royals, who won the 1951 championship before becoming today’s Sacramento Kings.
` Flower & Flour City: Known by both nicknames, Rochester first thrived on flour mills and later earned fame for its seed trade and lush horticulture— celebrated each spring during the Lilac Festival.
` Lake Effect Living: On the shore of Lake Ontario, Rochester is one of the snowiest cities in America, averaging nearly 90 inches of snow each year thanks to the infamous “lake effect.”
From innovation to history, from snowy winters to Garbage Plates, Rochester is a city with character— and our UCX branch there reflects that same spirit of resilience, creativity, and service.
Rocco Coronna, Supply Center Manager, keeps his finger on the pulse at this branch, tackling calls while taking care of customers at the desk.
The Ultimate Customer Experience (UCX) happens in Rochester!
Thumbs up from Matthew Proulx! Ready to make it a great day and deliver the Ultimate Customer Experience (UCX).
Mansfield, MA Pro Shop
The UCX Pro Shop in Mansfield, MA specializes in providing high-quality tools and supplies for all types of flooring installations. With a 2,500 square foot retail space and an additional 1,000 square foot warehouse, we’re fully equipped to serve contractors. We carry a wide range of products including adhesives, grouts, thin sets, and installation tools from trusted manufacturers such as Ardex, Laticrete, Crain Tools and Schluter Systems.
The location focuses on providing the Ultimate Customer Experience by offering professional services, a vast selection, and knowledgeable staff to support flooring contractors, architects, and designers with their projects. Its financial strength allows it to maintain a robust inventory, ensuring that clients can easily access the products they need for their jobs.
Proshop: Derek Carvalho, Supply Center Manager and Marty Gleeson, Warehouse Material Handler.
UCX Standard: Inventory Strength. This is what it takes to deliver the Ultimate Customer Experience (UCX). Our Mansfield Pro Shop is locked and loaded with every adhesive, prep material, and tool our clients need to succeed. Great work keeping our shelves stocked and ready, team!
Pompton Plains, NJ
A Hub of Engagement and Excellence
Located in northern New Jersey, Pompton Plains is a hub of activity and success. Our facility features a 100,000 sq. ft. warehouse, a full Pro Shop, and a dynamic office space housing multiple departments, including Purchasing, Customer Service, and Operations. Our skilled, long-tenured team operates on a single shift and includes employees who have dedicated over 20 years to our success.
Our strategic location is a major asset, offering easy access to NYC and allowing for efficient delivery coverage across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania.
We are perfectly situated for sports fans and culture seekers alike, located:
` 20 minutes from MetLife Stadium (New York Giants, New York Jets, and a host stadium for the 2026 FIFA World Cup).
` 30 minutes from the Prudential Center (NJ Devils).
` 30 minutes from Yankee Stadium and Citi Field.
` 20 minutes from the heart of NYC, offering Broadway shows, museums, and diverse restaurants.
` 5 minutes from William Paterson University.
Pompton Plains and the surrounding township of Pequannock are rich in history:
` The area has yielded Paleolithic tools from 3000 BC.
` The name “Pequannock” comes from the Native American term for “cleared land ready for cultivation.”
` “Pompton” refers to “a place where there is a crook in the river.”
` Geologically, the area was once home to Lake Passaic, a massive glacial lake.
` Famous faces have called our area home, including actor Jason Biggs and writer Peter Cameron.
` Pompton Plains offers a unique blend of business efficiency, team spirit, and cultural pride. It’s more than a location—it’s a place where people, purpose, and progress converge.
` Pompton Plains, NJ, is not known for a specific famous food. However, New Jersey as a state is famous for iconic foods like the pork roll (or Taylor Ham), salt water taffy, and its unique bar pie pizza. You can also find the classic diner experience at establishments like the Pompton Queen Diner in the nearby area.
Customer Service Rep: Bryan Goldsmith.
Eliezer Encarnacion
Back Row from left: Mike Emma, Gail Lodi, Sandy Estevez, Ruben Rodriguez-Perdomo, Marisa Miraglia, Robert Clark, Chris Ichinco, Bill Luke; Front Row from left: Darlin Vargas-Perdomo, Luis Morel-Pichardo, Lilla Bleeker.
Left: Darlin Vargus Perdomo, Right: Sam Safar
Woburn, MA DISCOVER UCX NORTHEAST
Our Woburn, MA branch is strategically located only 11 miles north of Boston, situated in a vibrant community that blends residential, industrial, and commercial areas. It offers convenient access to our entire customer base, as we are located right off two major highways
The Woburn facility is an impressive 32,000 square feet, designed to efficiently serve all our clients needs:
` 27,000 SF of space dedicated to a fully stocked warehouse and Pro Shop
` 5,000 SF of professional office space and a stunning showroom.
` We also house an extensive tile sample room with all the latest marketing materials, which is frequently utilized by our regional Representatives and dealers.
Our powerhouse team of six works tirelessly from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, committed to delivering the Ultimate Customer Experience on every interaction.
Woburn is one of the oldest communities in New England, settled in 1640. Historically, the city flourished as a
leading producer of leather. The demand for shoe leather during the Civil War provided a significant boost, and by 1885, Woburn was the area's premier leather production hub, attracting immigrants from Ireland, Nova Scotia, and Canada to its 21 tanning and currying establishments.
Just a short ride away, Boston offers a wealth of history, museums, arts, and music. You can walk the famous Freedom Trail or visit the historic USS Constitution
We love our local sports teams, who have brought home many championships:
` New England Patriots: Foxborough, MA
` Boston Red Sox: Fenway Park, Boston
` Boston Celtics: TD Garden, Boston
` Boston Bruins: TD Garden, Boston
The Boston area is also known for some of the best seafood in the country—enjoy fresh lobster, haddock, shrimp, fried clams, and scallops right out of the ocean! If seafood isn't your preference, the North End of Boston is world-famous for its incredible Italian Cuisine.
We’re proud of the space where the magic happens! These photos give you a peek inside our location, starting with the essential gear in the Pro Shop (left) and moving into our fully organized Showroom (right). Whether you’re local or visiting from another state, stop in and say hello to the team who keeps this space running smoothly!
Left to right: Eric Demille, Jesse Antonellis , Talon Russell
Albany, NY
Albany, NY, office—a critical hub that supports many essential functions across UCX!
The Albany location is strictly an office facility and houses several important teams, including Marketing, Customer Service, Product Management, and Sales
Albany is New York’s capital, a historically rich city founded by the Dutch in the early 17th century. The city is known for its diverse industries, including government, education, and technology, making it a vital place for our teams to connect and collaborate. It offers a blend of historical architecture, cultural attractions like the New York State Museum and the Empire State Plaza, and great outdoor recreation along the Hudson River.
You may not know that Albany holds a special place in American history. It was officially chartered in 1686, making it one of the oldest surviving European settlements in the original 13 colonies. The city also features unique architectural landmarks. For example, “The Egg” is a famous performing arts venue shaped like an egg, and the D&H Building (completed in 1918) was one of Albany’s early “skyscrapers” that still stands proudly downtown.
Rich VanBuskirk Jr.
Left to right: Margaret Cross, Rosie Villano, Stephanie Kieran
The Albany Conference Room—our hub for collaboration, strategy, and turning great ideas into real results for our customers.
WHATS EVERYONE CAULKING ABOUT
Scallop
Fishing Trip with Schluter
Employees and customers from UCX recently traveled to the Tampa, Florida area for an engaging and productive trip that combined hands-on learning with outdoor adventure. The group participated in in-depth training sessions focused on Schluter products, gaining valuable insight into innovative installation systems and best practices. After the training, the team enjoyed a fun and memorable scallop fishing excursion on Florida’s Gulf Coast—an ideal way to unwind and connect outside of the classroom. The trip was a perfect blend of education, team-building, and appreciation for our valued partners and customers.
SEBC Event
In July, UCX had the opportunity to participate in the Southeast Building Conference (SEBC), one of the largest building industry trade shows in the Southeast. The event brought together more than 6,000 attendees and 350+ exhibitors for two days of networking, education, and product showcases.
Our team was proud to represent UCX and connect with builders, designers, and industry partners from across the region.
SEBC was a valuable experience for UCX — not only to showcase what we do, but also to listen and gather insights we can bring back to strengthen our work.
UCX Joins Bona for an Unforgettable Fishing Trip in Campbell River, BC
Members of the UCX team recently had the pleasure of participating in an unforgettable fishing expedition in the scenic waters of Campbell River, British Columbia. Hosted by Bona, this “bucket-list” adventure brought together key distribution partners from across North America for a few days of world-class fishing, first-class accommodations, and unbeatable camaraderie.
While the travel was extensive, the experience more than made up for it. From reeling in impressive catches to building new friendships, every moment was one to remember. Tight lines and good times!
Saratoga
Each August, UCX Northeast welcomes customers and team members to Saratoga, NY for our annual customer appreciation event—a highlight of the year that blends fun, connection, and tradition. This year’s gathering, held August 27–28, 2025, was no exception.
Day One: At the Races
The festivities began on August 27th at the iconic Saratoga Raceway. Guests enjoyed an afternoon of horse racing, complete with a luncheon and plenty of opportunities to network. UCX was proud to sponsor the 4th race of the day,“Going the Extra Mile”—a fitting name that reflects both the spirit of the event and the commitment we strive to bring to our customers and partners.
Day Two: On the Course
On August 28th, the action moved to the beautiful Saratoga National Golf Course for a shotgun-style golf outing. Customers and UCX team members alike teed off for a day of camaraderie and friendly competition against the backdrop of one of the region’s most celebrated courses.
Building Connections That Last
The Saratoga event has become a UCX tradition—an annual opportunity to strengthen relationships, celebrate
End of Summer Fun at UCX Mansfield!
The team at our Mansfield Corporate office closed out the season with a summer picnic at our Mansfield, MA corporate location—complete with delicious food, fun games, and team members from around the Northeast. It was a great way to celebrate the end of summer and spend time together as a team.
partnerships, and show appreciation for the customers and vendors who make our business thrive. We are grateful to everyone who joined us this year and look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.
WHATS EVERYONE CAULKING ABOUT
The UCX Alliance Advisory Council held a two-day meeting in September to discuss the details of our program and work on important aspects for continued growth of our membership.
Pet Entries:
1. Mooney & Bailey, Jillian Stworzydlak (Buffalo, NY), Beagle; 2. Jax & Chili, Pam Corneau (Mansfield, MA), Long & Short Haired Chihuahua’s; 3. Milo (and all “Bill’s babies!”) – Bill Dean (New Castle, DE), Beagle/Hound Mix; 4. Mable, Pit mixes, Rocco Caronna, Rochester, NY; 5. Bauer, Holly Kuzdzal (Mansfield, MA), Boston Terrier; 6. Lucia (aka Chi Chi), Rocco Caronna, Rochester, NY; 7. Coco, Cesar Rivas (Douglasville, GA), Mini Schnauzer; 8. Coco – Joy Anderson (Mansfield, MA). Mix of Chocolate Lab & American Staffordshire terrier; 9. Drax, Samantha Hill (Glen Burnie, MD), Kitty; 10. Luna, Laura Wojcik (Glen Burnie, MD), Bernedoodle & Giant Schnauzer; 11. Penny and Rocco, Cristan Landry (Woburn, MA), German Shepherd Husky Mix/Pitbull; 12. Willow Joy – Steph Kieran (Albany, NY), Silver Lab; 13. Sullivan James – Steph Kieran (Albany, NY), Yellow Lab; 14. Penny - Britney McCoy (Glen Burnie, MD), Shar Pei/Chow Mix
THE MATCH GAME
Once you’ve conquered the game, snap a quick photo or screenshot of your triumph and shoot it over to Insider@ucx.com. Why, you ask? Because all you brilliant match game solvers with correct answers will be entered into a random drawing to win one of three cool UCX branded prizes!
We’ll announce our lucky winners in the very next issue. Good luck!
Match the Distribution Center Manager to the correct location:
Jim Gringas/Davy Buggea
Brad Fye/Mike Emma
John Owens
Joseph Dowe/Kevin Melton
Erik Bushrod/Steve Frenz
Jim Fabian
Randy Richards
Mike Bennett
Mike Meyer
Travis Edwards
Raleigh, NC
Orlando, FL
Columbus, OH
Richmond, VA
Mansfield, MA
Douglasville, GA
Pompton Plains, NJ
Glen Burnie, MD
Concord, NC
Nashville, TN
Match the Manager to the Correct Stand Alone Supply Center
Rocco Coronna
Cyndi Bauman
Stephen Lindberg
Daniel Maholick
Richard Fyke
Doug Wohlfarth
Leonard Heeter
William (Bill) Dean
Word Search Challenge Winners!
Greensboro, NC
Philadelphia, PA
Rochester, NY
York, PA
Woburn, MA
Greenville, SC
Buffalo, NY
New Castle, PA
Congratulations on a job well done!
Britney McCoy (Glen Burnie, MD), Gail Lodi (Pompton Plains, NJ), Samantha Hills (Glen Burnie, MD)