Winning sales with redwood deck contests

l&W REDWOOD of El Cajon, lfSorrento Valley and Vista, Ca., has developed a winning formula for redwood deck sales.

Their annual redwood deck contests have paid off big. These promotions have increased redwood sales and generated a great deal of recognition for the San Diego area lumber dealer.

P0WERH0USE of judges lor deck contest (clockwise from left front)back up Mike Maiden (seated), deck owner and second place winner; Greg Lambert, Simpson Timber Co.; Clyde Jennings (in hat), J & W Redwood; Mary Kay Lambert, Sharon Haven, Eellel

J&W Redwood has conducted redwood deck contests for four years and they are starting to plan their fifth.

The idea is simple. A deck contest challenges customers to build the best redwood deck and outdoor living environment they can. Homeowners and contractors planning to build a deck are more inclined to buv their materials where there is a chance to win a prize and a bit of recognition for their work.

Homes & Gardens, Mac Hudson, KFMB radio; Jacqueline Jennings; Claudia Jennings, J & W Redwood; Mark Whittleton, past winner; Rene Kline, Sunsel Books, and Charlie Jennings, J &W (in hat).

Clyde Jennings of J&W emphasizes that it is best to keep the contest simple. In their contests, entrants provide photos and a description of their project. Ten finalists are chosen from the entry photographs. Then judges inspect the finalists' decks in person.

J&W's contest is open to everyone. At first, it might seem unfair to have contractors and do-it-yourselfers competing against each other, but Jennings says this isn't so. "You'd be surprised at the work of some of the do-it-yourselfers," he adds. "In fact, last year the winning deck was built by a do-it-yourselfer. " The project included a deck around a pool and a hot tub, as well as an overhead shade structure.

Story at a Glance

Ways to make a deck contest bettereach year. .simple guide. lines to keep effort at a minimum, increase entries.. .popularity, publicity value enhanced by well known judges.

J&W advertises the contest on radio and in the local newspaper. They frequently use local sports celebrities to help with the radio advertising.

Holding a redwood deck contest may take a little extra effort, but the rewards must be worth it, Jennings says they plan to continue the contest each year. "The entries just keep getting better."