Small builder's big problems

The small building contractor stands o'on the thrmhold of an era that may see dramatic changes in building technology which could revolutionize his industry."

These changes include the transition from on-site to {actory building of less expensive homes, according to the latest issue of Bank of America's periodical, The Small Business Reporter.

Such changes will make it increasingly difficult for the small builder to compete in the lower-income housing market, the report states. The small builder also faces problems arising from the increasing sophistication and efficiency of larger competition.

Remaining constant in this highly fragmented industry is its continual exposure to fluctuating economic pressures outside its own perimeters.

"However, there will still be lucrative opportunities for the small building contractor in this creative and rewarding field," the bank says.

The industry's unique makeup also continues-the construction industry consists primarily of small firms, the majority of them sole proprietorships with fewer than eight employes.

Sfory dt d Glonce

Changing conditions for one of the lumber and building materials industry's biggest customers is already causingwaves at all levels of our industry.

Attesting to the importance of the industry, new construction in the United States during 1970 exceeded $90 billion and provided jobs for several million people.

The report describes various aspects of the business, including getting started, licenses, taxes and permits, bonding, financing, and management.

A single copy of the report may be obtained free at any Bank of America branch.

E. L. Bruce in Boy Areo

Bruce paneling and moulding div. of Cook Industrieq, headquartered in Covington, Tenn., has opened its western service center in Emeryville, Calif., under the management of James A. Lewis, western district manager. At the same location a sister company, Quality Marble & Granite Co. (Quamagra), will warehouse and distribute its products also. Lloyd Malfatti is the manager.

The new center serves the thirteen Tfestern states. It is on the railroad with its own siding and within a few blocks of the East Bay freeways.

Original parent of the company is E. L. Bruce Co., now a part of the major Cook Industries complex. Bruce is known as the oldest prefinisher of wood in the world. While American hardwoods are the major line, the company also imports panel' ing from Japan.

The new service center has 26,000 sq. ft. of working space under roof and an additional 18,000 sq. ft. in its holding yard.

Lewis, after graduating from the University of Illinois and completing active duty in World War II, was associated with Holmes Eureka and Pacific Lumber Co.

New PElco Officers

The Pacific Lumber Co. has elected Stanwood A. Murphy chairman of the board and chief executive officer. Succeeding him as president is Edward M. Carpenter, exec. vp. since 1963. Robert B. Hoover, former vp-saleq has been elected exec. vp.