Industry's challenge

By Al Leitschuh, CAE Executive Vice President National Building Material I)istributors Association

T HE BUILDING products industry has faced numer- r ous challenges over the past decade. Direct buying, increased competition and an unpredictable economy have played major roles in the modernization of the building products distributor and manufacturer. Today we are faced with an even greater challengeeducation, which affects our industry at all levels.

with the last of the "baby boomers" entering the work force, a shortage of young professionals is evident. Business technology is changing with new demand on employees. A competitive business environment places emphasis on education to improve and refine employee productivity.

Story at a Glance

Shortage of people entering industry long range program needed. hard times possible.

intriguing and necessary part olour industry, more conventional. but more professional ways of dding business will receive greater emphasis in the future, Quality, value, customer service, competitive prices and good selection will be words we will hear often as consumers become more knowledgeable and sophisticated.