Happy looth

knowledgeable employees are the rule rather than the exception."

"New does not always mean better," he notes, adding that the firm "will steadfastly resist a switch to the supermarket approach competitors are using."

Sfory at a Glane Gelebrating

its l OOth year in business, Modesto Lumber Go., Modesto, Ca., still carries on its traditions of personal service through knowledgeable employees.

He laments the difficulty his firm has, as do others, of finding competent employees that can provide the information customers need. He feels that few of their new competitors have fully qualified personnel.

The company employs around 50 people, does a mix of d-i-y, commercial, agricultural and contractor business. They are the only retail operation in their area that still has a planing mill. Operating primarily within Stanislaus Country, the firm also has yards in the small towns of Salida, Ceres and Turlock.

Recent U.S. Chamber of Commerce statistics surprised many recently when they showed that Modesto, Ca.. (population 100,000) is the fourth fastest grow(Please tum to page 54)

'Wat is the oldest retail lumber company in the lilest? We're not sure, so if you know, we at The Merchant Magazine would like to hear from you.-ed.

At Southwest Forest, we run our business to help you make a profit.

Example: When we say you'll have that shipment, you get it! Fast. Top quality. Exactly what you ordered.

We both know building products are pretty much alike. But manufacturers aren't. Take a look at us. Order from Southwest Forest and you'll get:

. A dependable supplier, a full range of products. We own our ownseven western sawmills, moulding plant, five plywood lay-up plants.

. Mixed loading of lumber; mixed loading of plywood; you don't have to buy more than you need. No profit-eating excess inventory.

. On-time shipment, truck or rail. We run our own truck fleet, our own traffic department; you don't run into wasteful delays.

Conscientious people with the experience and dedication that help you save time and sidestep potential problems.

In other words, the kind of service that helps you turn a profit. Call us at rc}D 279-5381. We'll give you what it takes to make it.

That's what the "Swinging S" trademark is all about.