CAROLINAS

Executlve Vlce Presldent

I N OUR TRAVELS and telephone conI versations from around the two states, the message is one of optimism. The first four months of the year have slowed down many starts, but as it improves most dealers feel business will continue on an upward trend.

The only reported area that seems to be getting a slower start is the northeastern part of North Carolina. Several Carolina area dealers have reported gains over last year as much as 5090.

1983 will be a good year for the Carolinas. Let's not forget, though, the lessons we learned during the past three years. Watch our expenses and overhead. Monitor our inventoiy levels closely, especially during a time when there are go- ing to be shortages. These shortages will not last, as the manufacturers and wholesalers refill their pipelines, supply will level off.

As one wholesaler told us, when the weather out west improves and they can get into the forest again, supply will catch up. Other lessons we have learned are: better employee productivity; more efficient cash management; and the profitable walk-in and remodeling business. You probably have better control of your business now than ever before, Don't lose it!

The Young Carolinians Idea Exchange will take place July 28-30 at Fairfield Inn, Sapphire Valley, N.C.

A report on the June 9-12 summer conference at Grove Park Inn, Ashville, N.C., will be given in the next issue.