Yardstick - Fall 2022 - The Made in Canada Edition

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE O Canada! 4

CHAIR’S MESSAGE Success, Made in Canada 6

MEMBER CORNER Catching Up With Industry News & Welcome to Our Newest Members 9 2023 SHOWCASE PREVIEW WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase is Open for Registration! 13

ADVOCACY Bringing LBM Industry Challenges and Recommendations to the Government 16

HR CORNER Defining the Labour Market—We Want to Hear From You! 19

BETTER BUSINESS Hello? Hello? 20

DOLLARS & SENSE Inflation and Its Impact on the Canadian Economy in 2022 22

Published November 2022

INQUIRES

The WRLA Yardstick is the official publication of the WRLA and is published four times per year. It is mailed to all retail and associate members of the WRLA, to retail lumber dealers and others in the building supply industry in Northwestern Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Colum bia, and to selected dealers in the Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Views expressed in the Yardstick are not necessarily official WRLA policy, nor does the publication of product information or any advertisement imply recommendation by the WRLA. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the WRLA.

Subscription rates in Canada: $12 per year, plus applicable taxes. Outside Canada: $15 per year, no tax. Rates quoted are for non-members only.

Canadian publication mail agreement #43754013. Postmaster send change of Canadian address to:

WESTERN RETAIL LUMBER ASSOCIATION

300-95 Cole Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R2L 1J3

Phone: 204-953-1698

Toll Free: 1-800-661-0253 Fax: 204-947-5195 wrla.org

To learn more about the WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase, go to page 13 of this magazine or scan the QR code. See you at the show!

O CANADA!

Having spent some time on the road recently, we have had several discussions around the economy—there is both pessimism and optimism for the state of the economy in the coming year. If interest rates continue to rise, we will continue to see some slowdowns in housing start and home buyers will continue to stand on the sidelines. Ultimately, we need interest levels to level off so that we can once again find some balance in the economy. Now we wait and see what December brings as this will provide a little insight into what’s on the horizon.

We appreciated the opportunity to connect with our members in person as those discus sions help the WRLA understand where we need to focus our energy and time in terms of programming. Having said that, I want to thank everyone that has taken the time to complete the labour study thus far. This information is critical for our industry.

In a few short months, we’ll be welcoming everyone to Winnipeg for our Building & Hardware Showcase, putting vendors, service providers, and retailers in the same room which builds sales success for all. While our Winter edition of Yardstick typically contains everything you need to know about the Showcase, we’re including a little sneak peek in this issue of one of the newest, most exciting inclusions to this year’s event—Tech Alley!

In our main feature this time around, we’re spotlighting some of our members for whom, though there were definitely challenges in the past few years, the supply chain was perhaps a little further down on the list. These are the companies that make, fabricate, or supply products right here in Canada. In our “Made in Canada” photo profile, you’ll meet several of these members, and hear stories of success built over generations, or in some cases, seemingly overnight. What unites these companies is what unites us all, wanting to make things better for their families, and the communities in which they live.

You’ll also get a chance to read about one of our members who are addressing the world’s power and fuel crunch with the very stuff that the prairies are made of—it doesn’t get much more “Made in Canada” than that! (Where there’s smoke, there’s potential).

There’s also an update on our ongoing Labour Study, and finally, some quick tips on phone etiquette that can make a difference in your retail operations starting right away.

WRLA is here for our members and working on behalf of everyone when we put together training courses to make the workforce more skilled, when we walk into the room with government officials and tell them what must be done to help this industry—and the communities we all support—recover and thrive once more.

There are some great programs and events coming up from WRLA in the next month or two, so I look forward to connecting with many of you in person!

Enjoy this issue!

Liz Kovach PRESIDENT, WRLA

PHOTO: MARY-MARGARET MAGYAR

SUCCESS, MADE IN CANADA

As the leaves begin to turn and we are entering fall, we can look back on another successful summer season across all our regions in the LBM Industry. There are many success stories we can share with each other about the gains we had in our regions, and the pride we continue to take in being an instrumental part of building the communities we all live in. With our membership residing in both small towns and large city centres throughout Western Canada they are given the opportunity to have a lasting impact. Now it is our time to continue to build on the growth that the LBM Industry has had recently throughout Canada and really promote what we are great at with a Made-InCanada focus.

The Fall issue is set to promote what Canada is, and what makes us succeed. As Canadians, we tend to take a gentle approach to our success and are at times afraid to share what is great about our people and our country. As we have seen over the last few years during supply constraints, we at times have relied too heavily on supply outside our borders and need to shift focus back to what is truly “Made-In-Canada” by the great people across our country. While we're at it, why not show our pride, and celebrate all the great products that are made right here. This issue will focus in on that, with some of the great products & services along with great people who truly promote what is great about a “Made-in-Canada” mindset.

One of the guiding principles that is outlined in our 5-year strategic plan is around advocacy and the promotion of our home-grown talent and products to the government. This November there will be a few prominent “Days at the Legislature” currently specific to Manitoba and Saskatchewan (other regions to follow), where members will be meeting with the government to discuss policy while promoting all of what makes our industry flourish. It will be a great time to discuss with our Provincial Leaders our “Madein-Canada” approach of how our industry creates good jobs, builds great products, while being a trusted partner in building our communities.

The 2023 WRLA Building and Hardware Showcase in Winnipeg is starting to take shape for this coming January, I truly look forward to the opportunity to see all of the “Made-in-Canada” on display. Also, I am planning to hit the road with Liz in the spring to visit members, and really look forward to connecting and seeing your shelves stocked with products made right in our own backyard.

As a third-generation family member on the board of the WRLA, I look forward to carrying on the tradition of what is truly “MadeIn-Canada” by continuing to see great products, made by great Canadians from coast to coast. As well, your association will continue to attract, connect, educate, and advocate for all members to ensure we have a great future together in the LBM Industry.

Just a quick reminder, Liz and her team continue to look for members to join our various committees, if you are wanting to have an impact on your industry and help build it for the future, please reach out to Liz and see how you can get involved and give back to the industry that has given to so many of us.

Finally, I wish you all a successful finish to your year and look forward to connecting with you soon at the WRLA Building and Hardware Showcase in January in Winnipeg.

Reimer CHAIR, WRLA

If you want to get more involved in the LBM Industry, you can reach Liz Kovach at lkovach@wrla.org or 204-770-2416.

Andrew

PHOTO: MARY-MARGARET MAGYAR

MEMBER CORNER

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Email us at marketing@wrla.org or reach out via social media. /wrlainc

INDUSTRY NEWS

HELP US SHAPE THE FUTURE OF THE LUMBER AND BUILDING MATERIALS INDUSTRY

WRLA is conducting an in-depth survey on the state of the workforce in our industry. Earlier in October, we sent out a link to participate in this important study.

The study, once complete, will help us create an accurate picture of the challenges and successes that our member companies are facing with respect to hiring and retention. We’ll be using this information to build strategies and tools that will directly address the issues and help all our members grow! For more information, read the HR Corner in this issue on page 19.

Ready to dive in? Scan this link to get started. Participants can enter to win one of 25 fuel gift cards.

Note: Members in Alberta will have received a region-specific personal link to the survey. If you have not received this email, contact marketing@wrla.org

GOLF WRAP-UP

Thanks to everyone who came out and supported our golf tournaments over the summer. Thanks to your support, our Educational Grants program is stronger than ever! We’ll be announcing this year’s recipients in the Winter edition of Yardstick.

PHOTOS:

ALISA LUO

NEW PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN PACIFIC WOODTECH CORPORATION AND CANWEL BUILDING MATERIALS DIVISION

Burlington, Washington-based Pacific Woodtech (PWT) is proud to announce a long-term agreement with Vancouver, British Columbia based CanWel Building Materials, a division of Doman Building Materials Group Ltd. to distribute Pacific Woodtech Corp.’s full line of Engineered Wood Products in Canada.

ALLIANCE DOOR PRODUCTS IS COMING TO ONTARIO

Every single member of the Alliance Door Products team—from the Pacific Northwest to British Columbia, to Alberta, to Manitoba—is excited to welcome St. Thomas to the family! This brand-new location will allow for Alliance Door Products’ top-quality products and services to be enjoyed by everyone throughout Ontario.

HOME HARDWARE CELEBRATES SUCCESSFUL “HOMECOMING” IN TORONTO

After more than two years of hosting virtual events, Home Hard ware Stores Limited brought its largest Dealer event to Toronto from September 23 to 25. The event, Homecoming, hosted more than 5,000 Dealer-Owners, store employees, Suppliers, business partners and corporate staff at the Enercare Centre, making it one of Canada’s largest home improvement retailer events.

FOX BLOCKS—BEYOND NET-ZERO

Fox Blocks, an Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) manufac turer, in partnership with Turning Leaf Custom Homes, a custom home builder whose focus is energy-efficient design and construction in Sanford, FL, has managed to build a Net-Zero home that has an outstanding HERS Index Score of -22.

The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index is the industry-wide standard energy-efficiency measurement of homes. The national average HERS rating posted by RESNET is 58. Using Fox Blocks, ICFs helps provide stable indoor air temperatures, significantly reducing cooling and heating loads and cost.

PHOTOS: MIDDLE LEFT: COURTESY OF ALLIANCE DOOR PRODUCTS. MIDDLE RIGHT: HOME HARDWARE STORES LIMITED.

BOTTOM LEFT: JON RUZ PRODUCTIONS/TURNING LEAF CUSTOM HOMES

WEST FOUR ACQUIRES WSI LTD., DORLAND DOORS LTD., AND MORE THAN DOORS LTD.

West Four Group of Companies Inc., parent company to West Four Distribution, Madero, Penner Doors and Hardware, Security Building Supplies and Two Six Creative, is excited to announce the purchase of WSI Doors Ltd, Dorland Doors Ltd. and More Than Doors Ltd, effective July 1, 2022.

WSI and Dorland operate in a joint use 80,000 sq. ft. facility in Edmonton Alberta. The facility includes an automated paint line for hollow metal, wood, and residential products. The increased manufacturing capacity is a valuable addition for all brands.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

CANADIAN SPA COMPANY

Canadian Spa Company, one of the world’s largest spa providers, is officially a member of the Western Retail Lumber Association (WRLA). As a global brand with a focus on supplying competitively priced spas, swim spas, outdoor furniture and saunas to merchants worldwide, Canadian Spa Company is looking forward to helping Building Supply retailers expand their product lines and gain a presence in the hot tub market.

With over 40 years of presence, Canadian Spa company strives to improve our customers’ quality of life by providing high-quality prod ucts and outstanding customer care. Through its extensive experience working with merchants and spa dealers, Canadian Spa Company recognizes the significance of WRLA’s vision of growing the building industry by connecting businesses.

Canadian Spa Company is excited to be the first WRLA member in the hot tub sector and looks forward to educating others in the community about the spa industry.

METEX SUPPLY CO.

Metex Supply Co. started in May 2020, providing high-quality products at more affordable prices to ensure their clients can make stone and other exterior options a reality in all the projects they dream up! They are a family run business started by two women who have combined expe rience of 21 years in the construction and customer service industry.

Metex Supply Co. is proud to distribute several industry-leading prod ucts such as LP Smartside, Hardie Board, IXL manufactured stone & brick, natural stone, Fastplank & more.

Welcome again, to the WRLA.

EXHIBITOR BOOTH REGISTRATION

One of the biggest events of its kind in Canada—Exhibitor Booth registration is now open for the WRLA Building & Hardware Show case. Book your space today and connect with 2,000+ industry professionals!

Our world-class exhibition space at RBC Convention Centre offers many different options, and a variety of sizes to fit the needs of your business. We recommend booking as soon as possible to secure your optimal booth size and location on our exhibition floor.

DEALER REGISTRATION

Our world-class exhibition space at RBC Convention Centre will play host to over 170 different exhibits and feature incredible show-exclusive deals, brand new products, and a stellar selection of educational presentations and workshops to attend!

Avoid long line-ups at the show by registering today!

Visit www.wrla.org/events or scan the QR code on this page to get started.

Please note that discounted pricing is only available until December 16th. Book early to avoid disappointment!

ACCOMMODATIONS AND FLIGHTS—DISCOUNTED RATES NOW AVAILABLE

The WRLA team is already hard at work to make sure the 2023 Showcase is our biggest and best event to date! We are happy to offer the following discounted hotel and flight options.

CAR RENTAL

WRLA members always receive up to 25% off rentals with Alamo, Enterprise, and National! Details on www.wrla.org

HOTELS

We're thrilled to be welcoming members back to Winnipeg in January and pleased to share that group rates are now available at the following hotels. Please contact the hotel of your choice directly to arrange your rooms.

• Alt Hotel Winnipeg

• Fairmont Winnipeg

• Fort Garry Hotel

• Inn at the Forks

• Norwood Hotel

• Radisson Hotel Winnipeg Downtown

FLIGHTS

We are pleased to be able to offer deals on airfare for the showcase through Westjet and Air Canada. Discounts can go up to 10% with Westjet (5U2T6ML) and Air Canada (QNX4T4C1).

For more information, check out www.wrla.org/events or scan the QR code on page 13.

HILL DAYS ARE BACK

Chris Allinotte, WRLA

LET’S GET READY TO … RESPECTFULLY BRING OUR CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GOVERNMENT!

This November, WRLA hosted parliament days with members ahead of meetings with MLA’s in both Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

We are planning to increase the frequency of our meetings with government and encourage you to help us connect the industry and join the planning meetings ahead of time. In these sessions we discuss the issues affecting members most from a regulatory or legal standpoint. WRLA then presents these concerns and recommendations directly to the provincial MLA’s. Having the full support of our members behind our advocacy work makes a huge difference, as seen recently when our efforts in Saskatchewan led directly to the province implementing the home improvement tax credit.

UPDATE ON GYPSUM ANTI-DUMPING REGULATIONS

The Canadian International Trade Tribunal conducted an expiry review on its initial finding from January 2017, concerning the dumping of gypsum originating in, or exported from the United States, subject to certain specifications and exclusions. The tribunal sent out questionnaires in May of 2022. The results of these were reviewed in the public hearing, held in August. On October 24, the official order was issued, rejecting the motion to expire.

The statement of reasoning was released on November 3, which we passed on to members in a dedicated email.

WHY ADVOCATE?

Advocacy is one of the four key pillars of the WRLA Mission. Together with, and on behalf of our members, we facilitate engagement and development of government policy by directing the industry’s prioritized needs to all three levels of government.

Within this pillar, we prioritize issues that affect the industry as a whole, support environ mental sustainability, and develop trusted relationships with senior government officials. The final piece of advocacy is returning to our members with timely and accurate infor mation about our efforts with the government, which in turn informs the next round of planning for continued talks.

UPDATES AND UPCOMING

Be sure to watch your email in November for more news about our advocacy efforts. WRLA held meetings on November 18 in Winnipeg and November 22 in Regina ahead of meetings with MLA’s. We’ll be updating our members on the progress of these meetings in our Winter Yardstick magazine, as well as dedicated Advocacy eblasts.

Our thanks to all of you who have participated in our strategy sessions. Please keep an eye out for announcements about our next round of meet ings which, in turn, will prepare us for subsequent meetings with the government. You can also email Liz Kovach at lkovach@wrla.org with your request to join in on future advocacy meetings.

DEFINING THE LABOUR MARKET—WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU !

Chris Allinotte, WRLA

Whether you come to WRLA as a manufacturer, a retailer, a distributor, or as part of a buying group, there is one issue that unites everyone in the Lumber and Building Materials Industry—there is a shortage of workers, and a diminishing pool of people coming into the industry to fill these positions.

Addressing this issue is one of the top priorities of WRLA as an organization, as it affects the long-term sustainability and profit ability of our members. To that end, we’ve set out to address this challenge by seeking to first understand it as well as possible.

In September, in conjunction with the government of Alberta, we launched a comprehensive Labour Market survey to all members in the province. In October, we’ve expanded the call for participation to all our members.

The survey asks questions about the current makeup of your business, with respect to the numbers and demographics of fulltime employees. It then asks for input on where you’re currently hiring new employees.

We’ll be working with professionals in the field of analytics to help us interpret the survey results. Next, we’ll use this knowledge to inform a variety of initiatives, from dedicated education partner ships and classes to public awareness campaigns to attract new workers to our industry.

This is where we need your assistance. As WRLA members, we need to hear your voices. Please scan the code on this page to be taken directly to the survey, or go to: www.surveymonkey.com/r/ WPKLQRJ

Note: Members in Alberta will have received a region-specific personal link to the survey. If you have not received this email, contact marketing@wrla.org

Everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a draw for one of 25 gift cards.

Thank you in advance for your participation.

HELLO? HELLO?

THE NOT-SO-LOST ART OF PHONE ETIQUETTE

Chris Allinotte, WRLA

In our increasingly online world, more and more business is done directly on our websites, or over text and email—and why not? It’s quick, convenient, and most times, it makes no difference what time of day it is, you can get things done.

However—and this is important—as long as your business has a phone number and a physical location, you and your employees are going to have to know how to connect with customers in person. This is especially true in the Lumber and Building Materials Industry. So much relies on personal connection and forming lasting rela tionships with both customers and suppliers alike. So how much harder is it to form these connections if our first impressions are awful? That’s when having a policy in place for customer service interaction comes in. We’re going to focus on phone etiquette in this article, but many of these tips translate to in-person interactions.

First, it’s important for everyone at your business to understand how to answer the phone professionally. There will always come a time when the person who “normally” answers incoming calls is unavailable for some reason. At that moment it’s critical to ensure that caller gets a great customer experience. Your next, and future sales with that person may well depend on it!

Here then, are a few practices you can put into place right away that will make a big difference.

ANSWER ALL INCOMING PHONE CALLS WITHIN 2 OR 3 RINGS

Think of a customer waiting for the phone to be answered as if they physically walked in your door. You wouldn’t leave them waiting for a greeting for minutes at a time—that would get very awkward, very quickly. Answering quickly shows that you respect your customer’s time. If your customer service staff are busy with in-person clients, or on another call, know who should be next in line to pick up. If you can’t get to the phone, have your voicemail set to pick up after 3 rings, or send the call to voicemail manually if need be.

OFFER A POLITE, STANDARD GREETING

At home, or on your mobile phone, answering with a simple, “Hello?” is fine. It’s polite and prompts the other person to continue the conversation. Answering a business call, however, needs a little bit more than that. It’s a good idea to identify yourself and your organization immediately. It sets the customer at ease—they’ve reached the place they were calling.

Example: “Good morning, ABC Molding, this is Monica. How may I help you?”

It also helps, believe it or not, to smile when you answer the phone. Even though the person on the other end can’t see you, the warmth you put into your expression will 100% be noticeable in your voice.

Greetings to avoid: Too casual, “Yeah?” “Hey.” “What’s up?” or too long, “Hello. You’ve reached ABC Molding, located at 123 Main St, open from 8-5 on weekdays. We’ve got a 10% special right now on discontinued stock. Ask us about our loyalty program. This is Monica. How may I help you?”

SPEAK CLEARLY

These days, it’s incredibly likely that the person calling is doing so from a mobile phone. That, and other issues can often make for poor sound quality on a call. Do your part to mitigate it by speaking slowly and ensure you’re enunciating clearly. It will ensure that the information is getting through and, as a bonus, you’ll save time having to repeat yourself!

AVOID SLANG

In our industry, as we’ve said at the top of this article, close connections and relationships are a big part of the business. However, when you’re starting out with a new customer, or anyone who’s calling, it’s best to present as professional an image as possible. Avoid phrases like “No problem,” or “o.k.” it’s better to be a little more formal and say, “certainly,” or “yes, we can do that.” If you know you use filler words, such as “like”, “um” or “you know” when you speak, see if you can use them less.

(Although if you’ve determined that it’s your regular customer Frank calling in his third order that week, it’s no problem to say, “no problem!”)

TAKE CHARGE OF ISSUES, USE POSITIVE LANGUAGE

People that answer the phone should either know the information that most people would be calling about or know where to find the answer. This includes any currently running sales or promotions but could be as simple as your operating hours.

Be positive in your replies. “Let me find that information for you” sounds much better to a caller than, “I don’t know.”

If the customer is calling with an issue, listen carefully and let the customer finish. Be empathetic. Let them know you’re there to assist. “That does sound frustrating. Let’s see what I can do to help.”

TAKE MESSAGES COMPLETELY AND ACCURATELY

If you need to get back to a customer, or you need to give their infor mation to someone else, do not end the call until you’re clear on what the message is. Have them spell their name for you and/or repeat their phone number if necessary. Then, take care to make sure the message gets where it needs to go.

If you are replying to a message left for you, try to do so within one business day. This goes back to what we were saying about the phone customer being the same as an in-person customer. If you take too long to get back to them, many customers will already have gone elsewhere.

THE WAITING GAME

If you need to put a customer on hold, let them know, and ask their permis sion. “Is it okay if I put you on hold?”

Try to give callers on hold updates every 30 – 45 seconds. If you can’t get to them in a timely manner, or they ask that you don’t place them on hold, offer them an option. “I’m sorry, it’s going to be a few minutes. Would you like to leave your number and we’ll return your call as soon as possible?”

VOICEMAIL

Your voicemail can be a valuable tool if used properly. It can ensure the call is addressed in a timely fashion and can provide pertinent information in your outgoing message—especially useful if there are changes to your operating hours or holiday closures. Make sure you’re answering voicemail messages within one business day.

Most of these tips seem like common sense but spending the time to make sure everyone who works at your business knows how to answer incoming calls will make a big difference. If you have a formal policy guide, add your phone etiquette procedures to that guide and ensure everyone knows where to find the information. Owners and managers can, and should, call the business once in a while to see how staff are answering. If it’s not the way you’ve discussed, set some time aside to review with everyone again.

Customer satisfaction, and the sales that come with it, start with customer service. Having great phone manners is an easy step down the road to making sure everyone who does business with you feels valued and make it more likely they’ll return!

INFLATION AND ITS IMPACT ON THE CANADIAN ECONOMY IN 2022

Travis Waite, WRLA

As I look out my office window and see the leaves changing colours and falling from trees, my senses steer me towards a period of reflection on the past. With a lot to be grateful for but also a lot of negativities floating around, I ask myself “how did we get here”? Given the whirlwind that society has been through the past few years, it’s a difficult question to answer. The world is attempting to move past the turmoil caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and though there is still clear division, nations continue to recover while striving for a level of normalcy that mirrored pre-pandemic life. If you have kept an eye on the news, you will notice particularly from an economical standpoint, 2022 can be described as anything but “normal”.

Inflation is one of the leading hot-button topics that you have likely heard about endlessly in the news in 2022. It is one that typically strikes fear in businesspeople and consumers alike. Though we may all understand that it will impact our bottom line and wallets, many of us don’t understand what causes inflation, how it is determined, or are confused about what it really means.

We can all see that prices almost across the board are increasing at an unprecedented rate, the cost of borrowing continues to spike, and you’ve probably noticed your invest ments have taken a major hit. Equities and fixed income investments, which are often used to hedge each other because of high historical correlations in counteracting gains and losses (when one goes up, the other goes down), are both significantly down from their all-time highs in 2021. These outcomes can all be explained as an effect of inflation on the economy. This is not something that is unique to Canadians and is being experienced across the globe.

INFLATION AND THE CANADIAN PRICE INDEX

So, what is inflation? First, we need to understand what the basis of inflation is: the Consumer Price Index (CPI). CPI represents the changes in prices that Canadian consumers experience over time. It is measured using 8 categories of goods and services:

• Food

• Shelter

• Household operations, furnishing and equipment

• Clothing and footwear

• Transportation

• Health and personal care

• Recreation, education and reading

• Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products and recreational cannabis

Each of these categories contain various goods and services and are updated frequently to account for changes in Canadian spending habits. Furthermore, increases in prices of these specific items can impact multiple categories of CPI. For example, an increase in gas prices will impact the cost of transportation (to fuel your vehicle), the cost of shelter (to heat and cool your home) and, as we all know, the transportation of goods!

HOW SUPPLY AND DEMAND IMPACTS INFLATION

Supply and demand is another hot-button topic that will affect the consumer price index and as a result inflation. Supply is the amount of a product or service available, and demand is the desire of consumers to buy it.

Due to restrictions from the pandemic, the proportion of consumer spending (demand) over the past few years has shifted away from services like trav elling and dining out, towards raw goods. Supply has been unable to keep up with this shifting demand due to labour shortages and supply chain disruptions, causing an imbalance between supply and demand. The result is an increase in prices, thus driving CPI and inflation skyward.

FIGHTING BACK AGAINST INFLATION

In June 2022, Canada saw its annual inflation rate rise to 8.1%, its highest annual increase since January 1983. Factors for this historic increase include higher global demand for energy, driving increases in gasoline prices, surges in food prices, specifically dairy and meat, and the red-hot housing market.

This data has struck fear that a recession is looming. We have already seen the Bank of Canada increase interest rates to 3.25%, which is a 14-year high and they are expected to continue into 2023. These rate hikes are being done in an effort to combat inflation. Increasing interest rates results in a higher cost to borrow money, causing consumers to hold onto their money rather than spend it. This will in turn help lower the consumer price index and bring more balance between supply and demand.

Though there are many external factors driving Canadian inflation (see Russia’s invasion of Ukraine), there are ways as a consumer to help minimize the impact of inflation in homes. Some of these include reducing consumption of items that have risen the most, shopping around and utilizing the second-hand market, and trying to extend the life of your existing goods. Business owners and sales professionals may not be thrilled to hear that consumer spending is the solution to fighting inflation and is trending downward, but this is the unfortunate reality that needs to be taken in order to cool down inflation and the economy.

Ending on a positive note, annual inflation rate growth in Canada has slowed in July and August to 7.6% and 7% respectively per the most recent statistics released. This is an indicator that interest rate hikes are begin ning to help slow down consumer spending and though there is still work to be done to get inflation to an acceptable level, the consensus is that June was likely the peak of inflation for this economic cycle in Canada.

With the year-end rate changes set to be announced in December, we’ll soon have a better view of what 2023 has to offer. Make sure to check back to Dollars & Sense in our winter edition for a forecast of the year ahead!

TECH ALLEY AT THE 2023 WRLA BUILDING & HARDWARE SHOWCASE

The LBM Industry relies on many interwoven industries and supply chains—manufacturing, fabrication, distribution, and hard goods just barely scratch the surface of the many specialties of our membership. One thing that everyone has in common, however, is that technology has changed the way everyone does business.

That’s why, for the first time ever, we’re dedicating an entire section of our showcase floor to bring together the many programs and services that are changing the way we do business. Visitors to the show will be able to see and interact with demonstrations and learn about these programs from the experts. We’re looking forward to welcoming representatives from ACCEO Solutions Inc., with their suite of business management tools, Product Sonar’s proprietary price tracking tool, and Toolbx’s online marketplace platform, just to name a few.

You can book your exhibitor space or register your attendance as a dealer now on wrla.org

PHOTO: MARY-MARGARET MAGYAR

CANADA DIGITAL ADOPTION PROGRAM

GROW YOUR BUSINESS ONLINE WITH INTEGRATE-IT

In 2022, the Government of Canada launched the Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP). Through the Grow Your Business Online Program: the goal is to help around 90,000 small and medium-sized enterprises in Manitoba better understand and enter the growing digital market.

Eligible businesses may receive:

• A one-time micro-grant of up to $2,400 for costs related to adopting digital technologies

• Access to a network of eCommerce Advisors for support and assistance

The Momentum Centre and AstroLab Synergies have come together to manage Grow Your Business Online in Manitoba through the Integrate-IT program. Integrate-IT is a three-year partnership that will deliver over 2900 micro-grants to small businesses.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) foster economic growth and create jobs. These businesses are crucial to Canada’s recovering economy. In an ever-changing digital world, busi nesses need tools, resources, and opportunities to adapt. Digital adoption is vital for the long-term growth and competitiveness of Canadian businesses.

To qualify for the micro-grant, businesses must:

• Be a for-profit business based in Manitoba (registered or incorporated)

• Be a consumer-facing business (accessible and/or provides services to customers)

• Have at minimum one employee (excluding the business owner)

Businesses will engage in adoption, improvement, or integra tion of of the following solutions:

• A digital eCommerce system, tool, or platform

• A back-office solution to support eCommerce

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) or social media advertising to support eCommerce

• A new or existing eCommerce website

The following businesses can not be considered:

• Corporate chains, franchises, or charities

• Multi-level marketing companies

• Real estate brokerages and sales agents

If your business qualifies, you can apply at iit.momentumcentre.ca or scan the QR code.

ALREADY TECH-SAVVY? YOU COULD BECOME AN ECOMMERCE ADVISOR WITH INTEGRATE-ED

Bring your leadership, creativity, enthusiasm, and innovation to the youth internship program!

As an eCommerce Advisor, you will build marketing and eCom merce skills while helping businesses with digital adoption.

Be part of the team...

Digital Services Team:

• Front-facing team focused on business development activities

• Consult with businesses on digital and marketing assess ments to guide their digital adoption journey

• Ongoing customer service for businesses

Digital Adoption & Marketing Team:

• Back-office specialists who support the program and the Digital Services Team

• Develop and deliver workshops on topics relevant to digital adoption and marketing

• Research digital solutions and develop content for web and social media channels

Who can apply?

Please ensure these requirements are met before applying, One of the following:

• Graduated from high school and considering pursuing a post-secondary education; or

• Currently pursuing post-secondary education; or

• Recently graduated from a post-secondary institution.

And:

• Between the ages of 17 and 30 (inclusive)

• Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or refugee

• Legally entitled to work in Manitoba

• Possess a valid Social Insurance Number

For more info, or to apply, contact integrated@momentumcentre.ca

PRAIRIE CLEAN ENERGY: FUELING CHANGE WITH BIOMASS

Chris Allinotte, WRLA

For Trevor Thomas, Founder and CRO of Prairie Clean Energy, where there’s smoke, there’s potential.

Growing up in rural Saskatchewan, Thomas was familiar with the annual sights and scents of burning flax residue. “One thing you know is, coming from the prairies in the fall,” he says, “you can’t get lost because you can just follow the fires out in the fields. Flax straw has a woody-based fibre, so farmers can’t till it back from the fields, and it won’t be able to grow over the next several years—so it’s always been burnt.”

Seeing all this organic material literally go up in smoke, Thomas realized that there was a lot of potential heat energy going to waste. “Farmers are burning over a million tonnes of it a year.” And with that thought, Prairie Clean Energy was born.

Created as a start-up in 2020, Prairie Clean Energy’s model is taking unutilized flax straw and unutilized wood/forestry residue and transforming it into pelletized biomass fuel.

While PCE benefits from having readily available source material to make fuel pellets, the farmers themselves get the opportunity to earn additional income from their sale of straw—not to mention the positive impact that converting this material, rather than burning it out in the field, can have on the environment.

POWERING A CLEANER ENERGY FUTURE

After researching the potential of flax straw as a fuel source, Thomas established Prairie Clean Energy to bridge the gap between flax farmers and those seeking clean, reliable biomass fuel. Since then, Prairie Clean Energy has grown into a fully realized biomass business, with three biomass fuel product lines (wood, flax straw, and ag residue), and has built partnerships with farmers and orga nizations across Canada and the world to deliver high-quality biomass fuel to customers across the world. In addition to satisfying a global need for biomass fuel to feed power plants, PCE is helping take on the challenges of climate change in a way that also makes great economic sense for Canadian farmers and manufacturers.

Above: The yearly fall event PCE aims to change; flax straw being burnt on the Canadian prairies.

PHOTO: COURTESY OF PRAIRIE CLEAN ENERGY/HUSZAR VISUALS

In conjunction with the government of Saskatchewan through grants, and working with University of Saskatchewan and University of British Columbia, PCE is utilizing top-tier research to explore the viability of various agricultural waste products as potential fuel sources.

The company’s vision is to be Canada’s global bioenergy leader, producing wood and flax pellets from previously unutilized sources. And from all accounts they are well on their way. As organizations and governments begin the slow-moving shift away from reliance on fossil fuels, companies like PCE are producing an energy efficient, renewable option by turning waste products into biomass.

THE THREE TYPES OF BIOMASS PELLETS

Wood Pellets

In Saskatchewan, where PCE is located, the Boreal Forest is 410,000 km2 in size—about the size of Sweden. Working with this abundant natural resource, the provincial forestry industry creates more than 700,000 tonnes of wood waste annually. This is where Prairie Clean Energy comes in, turning this refuse, which would otherwise be disposed of, into pellets ideal for burning in biomass power plants.

Ag Pellets

Canada has more than 48 million tonnes of unutilized agricultural residue every year. Crops like barley, canola, canary, hemp, wheat and more, produce organic waste that can’t be utilized and would typically be discarded or burned. This residue can be densified and transformed into clean, renewable biomass pellets. PCE is the leader in this space.

Flax Straw Pellets

With their patent-pending process, PCE is the only company in the world that is producing biomass pellets from a portion of the 750,000 tonnes of flax straw produced on the Cana dian prairies each year. Taking into account the farms in the US prairies, there are over 1,000,000 tonnes of flax straw that would otherwise go to waste. Pellets created from flax straw burn cleanly and hotly, generating very low ash content and a high net calorific value.

Above: PCE's patent-pending flax straw biomass pellets that burn cleanly and have a high net calorific value.

Left and right: A Canadian producer bulldozing flax straw into piles for burning in the fall.

PHOTO: COURTESY OF PRAIRIE CLEAN ENERGY/HUSZAR VISUALS

FLAX TO THE FUTURE

In January of this year, PCE announced the opening of a dedicated flax pellet production plant in 2023. As 2022 progresses, the company is figuring out supply chain logistics and conducting due diligence on the highly specialized equipment required to meet customer needs. PCE is doing the proper footwork now in order to be ready to deliver to customers waiting for flax biomass pellets around the world, including RENOVA, the only Japanese publicly-traded power generation company exclusively focused on renewable energy.

While biofuel power plants seem to be ramping up around the globe, particularly in Asia, Europe, and South America, there is still much untapped potential here in Canada to start using this abundant and renewable resource.

“I think there’s an opportunity there,” says Thomas, “to keep some of the coal plants running, but using pellets as an alternative fuel source.”

As the company expands, it’s only a matter of time before PCE’s attractive value proposi tion, trading dollars for agricultural and wood waste catches the eye of farmers in Manitoba and Alberta. Thomas speaks optimistically about the potential for growth.

“Down the road, we hope there’s opportunity to open up in Manitoba and Alberta. We’re building relationships in those provinces. I don’t look at it as a single province—I think of the Prairies as a whole.”

Beyond expanding their relationships and territory, PCE is also busy researching addi tional fuel alternatives.

“One thing we want to make sure of, we always look at waste as a fuel source. That’s one of our main criteria. Flax straw is a woody fibre and that makes it easier to explain around the world—what it is that we have, and what we’re offering.”

BIOMASS: FUEL FOR THOUGHT

What does biomass production have to do with the lumber industry?

For Trevor and PCE, they are looking at working within the lumber industry to educate manufacturers and wood product producers about putting their waste products to work. “It’s an opportunity to start a recycling program, or even processing that fuel right on site. It doesn’t have to go to landfill. It’s a product that’s needed and wanted.”

For Prairie Clean Energy the future is bright. While there are undeniable environmental benefits to diverting agricultural waste, the real benefit is an alternative energy fuel source that is only going to grow more important as the world looks for ways to shift away from its reliance on fossil fuels.

In considering the future of the biomass fuel industry Thomas remarked, “It’s not a replacement, but I believe the bio-side has a place in the energy sector.”

For Trevor Thomas, and the team at Prairie Clean Energy, the future is burning brightly (and hotter than wood!)

If you’re interested in learning more, or partnering with Prairie Clean Energy, you can contact them at info@prairiecleanenergy.com, or visit their website at www.prairiecleanenergy.com

PHOTO: COURTESY OF PRAIRIE CLEAN ENERGY/HUSZAR VISUALS

MADE IN

CANADA

TRUNORTH DECKING

With so many options for low-maintenance decking these days, choosing the right one is not always easy. But for Canadians who want great decking products that are made in Canada, the choice is obvious: TruNorth Decking.

TruNorth Decking has been manufacturing wood-free composite decking since the mid-2010s, and the owners have been in the plastic recycling industry for over 40 years. TruNorth’s 17-acre headquarters and manufacturing facility is located in Brantford, Ontario (hometown of NHL legend Wayne Gretzky), with the plastic recycling facility, EPL Plastics, right beside it. The family-owned parent company has been an Ontario-based business for over 50 years.

TruNorth composite decking, unlike the vast majority of competitors, contains rice hulls instead of wood, which allows for better strength, moisture resistance, and dura bility. TruNorth boards consist of 95% recycled materials and the manufacturing facility utilizes solar panels and other eco-friendly practices.

In 2018, TruNorth started manufacturing premium PVC Clubhouse Decking alongside TruNorth Decking after purchasing it from Michigan-based company, Tapco, making for a valuable addition to the all-Canadian TruNorth product family. Clubhouse Decking was engineered for the best performance possible and TruNorth is proud to have such an industry leader made in Canada. All Clubhouse boards and solid core TruNorth boards are CCMC certified, ensuring an excellent standard of performance.

After several years of focusing on low-maintenance decking, TruNorth has expanded into the fencing market, giving Canadians an excellent option for composite fencing made in Canada. Launched in spring 2022, the TruNorth Slide & Go Fence is a horizontal fence system that utilizes the same Canadian-made TruNorth Enviroboards, plus long-lasting Canadian-made aluminum fence components.

TruNorth works with hundreds of Canadian dealers, distrib utors, and builders across the country, and continues to be present at many trade shows and other events in Canada.

All photos are supplied by TruNorth Decking.

TruNorth Decking in Amazon Grey.

Clubhouse Decking is the best board in the industry for creating curved deck designs.

"TruNorth boards consist of 95% recycled materials and the manufacturing facility utilizes solar panels and other eco-friendly practices."

Clubhouse’s heat-blocking technology allows it to cool down faster than other boards.

The new TruNorth Slide & Go Fence in Ash Grey.

"What EPAK is most proud of, is that they are a Canadian manufacturer, through and through. EPAK only sells its building material products to Canadian customers."

Top left: Jay Cumbers, CEO/President of EPAK.

Left bottom: Titan Protective Housewrap used in Red Deer, Alberta.

Middle left top: Homeguard Housewrap used in Warman, Saskatchewan.

Middle left bottom:Titan Protective Housewrap shipping on pallets.

Middle right top: Kim Chourarath, Customer Service Manager of EPAK.

Middle right bottom: One of EPAK’s four manufacturing facilities, 55 Plymouth Street pictured.

Top Right: Titan Protective Housewrap used in Winkler, Manitoba.

EPAK INC.

EPAK has been in business for over 100 years here in Manitoba. The business, initially, was manufacturing for the flour industry, producing flour sacs for distribution across Canada. Fast forward to the early 2000s, EPAK began to specialize in flexible packaging materials (lumber wraps, lumber covers, dust covers, shipping covers and shrink wrap). EPAK also began manufacturing building materials. Their main point of emphasis currently is their residential house wrap, commercial building wrap, synthetic roofing underlayments, and insulated construction blankets, with more products coming in 2023 to expand their building material portfolio. EPAK manufactures all of their house wrap and building wraps at their four manufacturing facilities in Winnipeg. They also employ over 150 plant workers and 20 office staff, all Manitobans.

What EPAK is most proud of, is that they are a Canadian manufac turer, through and through. EPAK only sells its building material products to Canadian customers. This provides an immense amount of value to their customer base, as it mitigates lead times and allows their customers to more accurately plan and forecast for their businesses. The unfortunate reality, in our current climate, is that American manufacturing has focused its attention on its American customer base. This puts Canadian businesses at a disadvan tage because it makes it more difficult to forecast appropriately, plan effectively, and serve their customers the way they want to serve them.

One thing, COVID has taught us, is the importance of buying local and supporting local, Canadian businesses. EPAK is poised to continue to support the Canadian building materials business in Western Canada and across the country. Made in Canada is important to us and we know it is to you as well. We would love the opportunity to earn your business.

All photos are supplied by Epak Inc.

CLOVERDALE PAINT

Cloverdale Paint has had a special rela tionship with its customers ever since the company was founded in 1933. That relationship was built on a commit ment to exceptional quality in manufactured coatings and superior customer service.

From humble beginnings on a farm near Langley, BC, Cloverdale Paint has grown to be North America’s largest privately-owned, regional manufacturer and distributor of paint products and coatings.

The combination of skilled technicians and chemists, modern manufacturing equipment and the best available ingredients, has resulted in quality products that meet the

needs of the professional and industrial painter. Ecologic ® Waterborne enamels, created for the architectural and indus trial marketplace, are an example of the technologically-advanced and environ mentally-positive products that Cloverdale Paint is proud to provide. Just as important, we’re a family business with a commitment to strong community values. We believe that a vibrant community is the cornerstone of good business.

Cloverdale Paint directly, and through a subsidiary company in Portland, Oregon (Rodda Paint Company), operates manufac turing plants in Surrey, Portland, Winnipeg,

Mississauga, Oakville, London and Calgary. Distribution of architectural coatings and related products is through 128 distribution points throughout Canada and the Pacific Northwest of the United States including Alaska. Cloverdale’s industrial maintenance, protective coatings and OEM products are distributed through its corporate store chain and through industrial distribution service centres located in Surrey, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Mississauga, London and Montreal.

All photos are supplied by Cloverdale Paint.

"Cloverdale Paint has had a special relationship with its customers ever since the company was founded in 1933."

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

MEMBERS IN THE COMMUNITY

WRLA SUPPORTS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

On September 29, the WRLA team took part in a Habitat for Humanity Manitoba build in our home city of Winnipeg. The five-person team from our office teamed up with three representatives from Metrie and set to work on two houses being built side by side. One half of our crew spent the day framing interior walls, while the other team worked outdoors in the September sunshine installing insulation and house wrap. It was a great day, and we were all grateful to be able to give our time to such an amazing cause. Getting involved with the construction of these houses also gave us a deeper understanding of the building and construction work that is so vital to our members’ businesses!

Founded in 1987, Habitat Manitoba is a nonprofit housing organization that believes everyone deserves a safe and decent place to live. They mobilize communities to help low-income working families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. With the help of volunteers, donors, and community partners, they have helped 458 families, including 1,400 children in the Province, including Kenora, Ontario.

Previously this summer, President Liz Kovach went the extra mile(s) as she rode her bike to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity chapters. The first was “Ride through the Rockies”, which took her over 300 km through the Rocky Mountains in support of Habitat Southern Alberta. Then, on September 11 and 12, Liz was a part of Habitat for Humanity Manitoba’s “Ride around the Lake,” covering 180 km over two days!

MEMBERS GET TOGETHER TO SUPPORT HEAVEN

CAN WAIT

WRLA would like to give a shout out to Leigh Palko of the Cedar Shop and Dave Leonzio of the Sexton Group Ltd. for their support of Heaven Can Wait’s recent golf tournament, a foundation that provides shelter, care and nourishment to abandoned, abused, and homeless domestic animals within High River, Alberta.

Leigh has been involved with this cause for a number of years dedicating time and resources to animals in need, and was closely involved with helping Heaven Can Wait bring this successful tournament together!

As advocates for the Lumber and Building Material Industry, it gives us great pleasure to support an organization that is fostering and building equity through affordable housing, by fully integrating diversity and inclusion for all.

TAIGA

CANADIAN RED CROSS FOR HURRICANE FIONA RECOVERY EFFORTS

Taiga is dedicated to supporting communities in times of need, and they are all devastated to see and hear about the damages that were caused by Hurricane Fiona earlier this month. Taiga hopes their donation can help ease the suffering of those affected, and help to rebuild the Atlantic Region to its original beauty.

Taiga Building Products donated $30,000 to the Canadian Red Cross, in support of the hurricane Fiona recovery efforts in the Atlantic Region.

Pictured above left to right: Louise Castonguay [Red Cross - Vice President, Atlantic Canada, Mark Dill [Taiga – General Manager Atlantic] & Jean Phillippe Tizi [Red Cross - Chief Emergency Officer, Canada & International]

JELD-WEN OF CANADA DONATES $25,000 TO SUPPORT PEOPLE AFFECTED

BY HURRICANE FIONA

In support of those affected by Hurricane Fiona in Eastern Canada, and to help them get back into safe and comfortable homes and businesses, JELD-WEN of Canada is donating $25,000 to the Canadian Red Cross.

“We understand that many of our customers, employees, and busi ness partners are facing significant challenges in the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona. At JELD-WEN, our values guide us in everything we do. We appreciate the support of our customers from coast to coast, and we hope that our donation will make a difference to our neighbours along the Atlantic, helping them to rebuild and recover from this heartbreaking event,” says Rob Conway, JELD-WEN of Canada President.

To join us in donating to the Canadian Red Cross in support of Atlantic Canadians, please scan the QR code or visit the Hurricane Fiona in Canada donation site

PHOTOS: TOP LEFT: SUPPLIED. MIDDLE LFET: CANADIAN RED CROSS