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Winter 2023

C O NNE C T I N G T HE B U I LDI N G SU P P LY I NDU S T RY

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Winter 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS

IN THIS ISSUE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Mental Toughness, Are You Ready to Dive In?

MASTHEAD Liz Kovach WRLA PRESIDENT

Chris Allinotte DIRECTOR, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

FEATURES

Brenda Bourns EVENTS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

2024 SHOWCASE

CHAIR’S MESSAGE Celebrating 30 years of coming together

MEMBER CORNER Dick’s Lumber acquires Zytech, new TIMBER MART D.C. and more

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT Changes are coming. Are you ready?

ADVOCACY Government relations update

Labour challenges—Just the facts!

Amanda Camara

2024 WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase Floor plan

VICE PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND MARKETING

Calling all WRLA retailers: WRLA 2024 Showcase is bigger & better than ever!

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Level up your skills in just one day at the Home Hardware PD Power Sessions 48

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Challenge yourself to be extraordinary: Unlock your potential with Lauren Johnson

Alisa Luo Bonnie Moore PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Travis Waite

DIRECTOR, FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION

Celebrating excellence: WRLA Awards reception re-imagined

DIRECTOR, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Unlock Success: Let’s Go Build your team with career fairs 24

Trailblazing the timber trail: LBM Ladies leading the way

BETTER BUSINESS 26

Framing the future at booth #838: Celebrating 30 years of building success 58

New WRLA Academy course: Improving Profitability Through Yard and Warehouse Management 60

HR CORNER

Business strategy in four stages

DOLLARS & SENSE Canadian economic outlook in 2024

SAFETY CORNER Safety is the universal language at All-Fab Building Components

Martine Yzerman

Industry Award Winner

What’s APP-ening?

BETTER BUSINESS Pushing the (Building) Envelope with JELD-WEN Windows

MEMBERS IN THE COMMUNITY A season of giving among WRLA members

IN MEMORIAM Remembering those we lost in 2023

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Winter 2023

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 Columbia, 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.

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

TECH CORNER Project management that clicks (up!)

Published December 2023

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

Navigating the Delivery Method Maze: A Guide for Building and Lumber Stores 35

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED. COVER: KRISTA LAWSON

Rebekah Doerksen

WESTERN RETAIL LUMBER ASSOCIATION 95 Cole Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R2L 1J3 Phone: 204-953-1698 Toll Free: 1-800-661-0253 Fax: 204-947-5195 wrla.org

*This magazine is printed on recycled paper with 100% post-consumer fiber.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

MENTAL TOUGHNESS, ARE YOU READY TO DIVE IN?

came across a quote the other day that read, “life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you react to it”. This quote hit me hard (pun intended if you are aware of my circumstances from this past year), and it ties directly back to mental toughness. Often we have it, and don’t even realize it! Mental toughness is something I’ve been interested in, but it really wasn’t until March of 2022 that I could pinpoint it. After moving our trade show to a non-optimal time of year, a couple of board members and I had a sharing circle of how we felt coming out of the pandemic—and there was this light bulb moment that I had—“oh wait, you mean I’m not in fact dead inside?” I had realized that we all had a new perspective: having to make tough decisions in a time of constant upheaval had rewired us. We’d had to pick up the pieces and power through regardless of what came, and now, past irritants no longer had the same effect on us—we had a heavy dose of actual crisis to put them in perspective. It was then I first learned about Lauren Johnson—our 30 Annual Showcase Kick Off Breakfast speaker presented by Durabuilt Windows and Doors. When we started talking about doing something special for our 30th Anniversary Showcase, adding a speaker and breakfast seemed like a great way to kick off the show. Having now met with her a couple of times, I am even more excited to have her join us, and believe she will have a major impact on those who make the most of the event this year. th

Our theme for this year’s showcase is “Framing the Future,” and after the ups and down over the past few years, it’s fitting to have her kick off the Thursday with her keynote and help us get into a mindset that will help us face the inevitable challenges that life will throw at us. Can’t wait to see you all there!

Also launching at this year’s show is “Improving Profitability Through Yard & Warehouse Management”! We are offering Level 1 of this course both in person and by live stream on Wednesday January 17. Don’t miss this opportunity to send your staff to learn more about creating operational efficiencies and helping to create a more collaborative and profitable environment. To learn more about these sessions please refer to the Showcase section of this edition of the Yardstick. Last but certainly not least, please join me in congratulating Murray Finkbiner on being selected as the 2023 Industry Achievement Award recipient. We will be celebrating his accomplishments in style on Thursday, January 19 with a night of fun, food, conversation, and duelling pianos! Best wishes for a healthy and prosperous 2024 and I look forward to seeing you in Winnipeg at the 2024 Annual WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase.

• Increase Sales by … Selling! • Relationship Marketing—Connecting Audiences & Conducting Sales • Recruit, Retain, and Excel in the LBM Industry • You Got Hit by a “Truck,” Now What? Business Succession Planning

PHOTO: MARY-MARGARET MAGYAR

As we continue to look ahead to the future the entire team has been working hard to ensure there is something for everyone at the show! If you haven’t yet signed up for the following sessions, please make sure you do because seating is limited:

Liz Kovach PRESIDENT, WRLA

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YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023

CHAIR’S MESSAGE

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF COMING TOGETHER

THE WRLA BUILDING & HARDWARE SHOWCASE

n the dynamic world of building materials, milestones are not just measured in time but in the evolution of innovation and industry trends. The Western Retail Lumber Association Building & Hardware Showcase marks its 30th anniversary this year, symbolizing three decades of excellence, growth, and transformative progress in the building materials and hardware sector.

The WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase has become an annual gathering point that fosters collaboration, networking, and knowledge-sharing among industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts. It serves as a hub of ideas, innovations, and solutions that drive our industry forward. Beyond its role as a showcase, the annual event has been a beacon for education and professional development, workshops, seminars, and keynote presentations by industry experts providing attendees with invaluable insights into emerging trends, best practices, and regulatory updates. The commitment to continuous learning has been a driving force behind the showcase’s success in fostering a knowledgeable and skilled workforce, while ensuring our industry is leading in innovation and sustainable building practices for years to come. One of the intangibles and yet instrumental aspects of the WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase is the networking opportunities it provides. For 30 years, the event has facilitated meaningful connections between professionals, suppliers, and decision-makers, laying the groundwork for collaborations that have shaped the industry. The 30th anniversary edition is expected to be a celebration not only of the past but also of the enduring relationships that have been forged over the years. As the WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase reaches its 30th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and forward-thinking nature of the building materials and hardware industry. The event continues to be a driving force behind the sector’s evolution, bringing together the brightest minds, the latest technologies, and a shared commitment to building a sustainable and innovative future. As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to the next 30 years of progress, collaboration, and transformation in the ever-evolving world of building materials and hardware. 6

Friendly reminder, if you haven’t yet, please be sure to get registered. As well, sign up for many of the incredible events planned, from the educational sessions to the kick-off keynote speaker & breakfast, and our amazing Thursday night celebration, this year’s showcase is setting up to be a memorable one. I wish you all a fantastic finish to 2023, and I look forward to connecting with each of you in Winnipeg, as we celebrate our past, and collaborate on framing the future, as we attract, connect, educate, and advocate for the LBM Industry for years to come!

PHOTO: ANTHONY FERNANDO

With the inception of the first prairie showcase in 1994, as a response to the industry’s need for a centralized platform where manufacturers, suppliers, and professionals could converge to display, discuss, and explore the latest advancements in building materials and hardware technology. Years later, the showcase has grown from a regional event to a national hub, attracting participants & professionals from all corners of the industry and country.

Andrew Reimer CHAIR, WRLA

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MEMBER CORNER

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

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

INDUSTRY NEWS DICK’S LUMBER ACQUIRES ZYTECH BUILDING SYSTEMS Boucherville, QC, October 11, 2023—Dick’s Lumber, a banner of RONA inc., one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers operating or servicing some 425 corporate and affiliated stores, has completed the acquisition of ZyTech Building Systems, a leader in the manufacturing and distribution of building components and engineered wood products. This is the first strategic acquisition for Dick’s Lumber under the ownership of private equity firm Sycamore Partners. This transaction will allow Dick’s Lumber to expand its design and manufacturing footprint to better serve developers and builders in Western Canada. The combined business will bring valuable resources to both companies and will deliver more value to customers via strengthened capabilities, increased product availability, and best-in-class talent.

PHOTOS: SUPPLED AND PENGUINLENS VIA SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

“We are thrilled to welcome the ZyTech team to the Dick’s Lumber and RONA families,” explained Andrew Iacobucci, CEO of RONA inc. “ZyTech is a very strong player in its field. This acquisition will strengthen our position in the Alberta and Saskatchewan markets and improve how we serve our valued customers.” “ZyTech is known for providing customers with superior service and high-quality products. We are looking forward to better serving our customers through the combined Dick’s Lumber and ZyTech enterprise,” said Paul McKeown, President of Dick’s Lumber. “The combination of these highly complementary businesses will benefit all stakeholders, including ZyTech’s dedicated employees. We are excited to begin this next chapter under RONA’s ownership,” added Mike Powell, President and CEO of ZyTech Building Systems.

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Winter 2023

MEMBER CORNER

TIMBER MART EXPANDS LBM DISTRIBUTION NETWORK INTO MANITOBA VAUGHAN, ON, October 16, 2023—TIMBER MART has expanded their lumber and building material (LBM) distribution centre network into Manitoba with the addition of an LBM facility, situated on a three-acre property in Winnipeg. The distribution centre is conveniently located within a six-hour radius of several TIMBER MART member locations in Manitoba, parts of Saskatchewan and Northwestern Ontario and will offer a wide selection of LBM products, weekly deliveries, cross-docking/furtherance service as well as easy access for dealers looking to pick up their orders. “Our new distribution centre in Winnipeg will offer many of our members in the Prairies all of the conveniences that our existing facilities provide for our members in B.C., Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick,” says Bernie Owens, president and CEO of TIMBER MART. “We look forward to providing our dealers with a great source of LBM products and competitive advantage in their local markets.”

Mississauga, ON—AD is delighted to announce that Stephane Gaumond has joined the organization as director, business development for the Building Supplies—Canada division. Gaumond, a seasoned executive with over 25 years of invaluable industry experience, will be a vital addition to AD Building Supplies—Canada’s team, managing all aspects of the business development process for the division’s presence across Canada while maintaining a special emphasis on Eastern Canada. Based in Montreal, QC, in this new role, Gaumond will tap into his strong industry relationships with the largest building material suppliers and distribution businesses across Canada to help steer the division into even further success. Gaumond’s impressive career spans various distribution and manufacturing businesses throughout North America, garnering him a wealth of expertise and knowledge. His track record of nurturing close connections with major building material suppliers and distribution businesses across Canada amply positions him to guide AD Canada’s members and help them leverage his invaluable experience.

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

TIMBER MART’s new distribution centre is located at 95 Paquin Road in Winnipeg, Manitoba. It will be the fourth facility the buying group operates and will represent a significant expansion of their current distribution-centre network which consists of facilities currently in Langley, British Columbia, Mount Forest, Ontario and St-Nicolas, Quebec.

AD BUILDING SUPPLIES—CANADA WELCOMES STEPHANE GAUMOND TO STRENGTHEN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ACROSS CANADA

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Winter 2023

MEMBER CORNER

WRLA NEWS WELCOME TO WRLA! BRENDA BOURNS Brenda Bourns has joined WRLA as our new Community Engagement & Events Manager. Brenda is a seasoned 30-year live event producer having worked on local, international and globally televised events including the Grey cup championships, Pan-American games, FIFA world championships, Juno awards, NHL all-star games and everything in between. She also loves to work with nonprofit and charitable organizations helping them reach their fundraising goals and increase brand awareness. From grass roots initiatives to multi-faceted large event productions, Brenda’s experience focuses on building excellent relationships with vendors, sponsors, media, and shareholders. She has proudly worked with some impressive brands such as Home Depot, Alair Homes, Princess Auto, RONA, Walmart, Gatorade, Disney, Molson Coors, Pepsi and 3M to name a few. A hardcore sports fan with a passion for CFL football, rugby, and hockey, she loves playing as many as she watches. You’ll only find old school 80’s rock on her playlists, and she loves to travel with her family. Currently she is smitten with her new rescue pup Cruise and spoils him as much as possible. Brenda will be leading the charge when it comes to membership growth—she will focus on developing programs that are meaningful to members. Email your ideas for new programs to bbourns@wrla.org.

Above: Brenda Bourns

SIDNEY PROKOPETZ We’re also welcoming Sidney Prokopetz to our team as our new Social Media Coordinator! Sidney is currently attending CDI college for Social Media Marketing and plans to help businesses elevate and advance their social media presence. Additionally, outside of her studies she is working as a Social Media Coordinator and Content Specialist at this time. Sidney was connected to us through CDI College and shared her personal mission to aid in brand awareness, visibility, reach, and overall engagement. Growing up Sidney knew she enjoyed the rise of social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and more as she viewed it as an opportunity to connect vastly with peoples from all around the world. She is looking forward to seeing what she can do within the industry, especially working with the WRLA.

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Welcome Brenda and Sidney! We’re so excited for all you’ll do with WRLA! Above: Sidney Prokopetz

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Winter 2023

MEMBER CORNER

WRLA WELCOMES CFL LEGEND MILT STEGALL TO OUR WINNIPEG OFFICE On November 2, WRLA welcomed hall-of-fame Winnipeg Blue Bomber Milt Stegall to our head office in Winnipeg, MB for a breakfast networking session with our Manitoba members. Milt spent time with all the attendees, who got to hear some great football stories first-hand. The event was also an opportunity for those in attendance to hear about some of the new and exciting programming that we’re bringing to the 2024 WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase. [As detailed in this issue!] Our thanks to the members who came out to enjoy this special event, and a very sincere thank-you to Milt Stegall for sharing his time and experiences with our members. A special thank you also goes to TIMBER MART for sponsoring this great event, making it possible.

PHOTOS: WRLA

We’ll be planning more of these kinds of special events in other cities in the new year—so stay tuned for details!

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TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

CHANGES ARE COMING. ARE YOU READY? WRLA ACADEMY CAN HELP Martine Yzerman, WRLA

s the Director of Professional Development, I am excited to showcase the significant strides made by the WRLA Academy over the past year, particularly in refining our education to better serve our members. While we have been working to develop our own content, we also recognize that in order to rapidly meet the needs that our members face, we need partners that are experts in their field so we can offer best in class training and development. With the upcoming changes to building codes and the movement towards net zero, there was demand from our members to have a better understanding of building science. The goal is to ensure staff are better equipped to work with their customers, and adapt to the needs if there are specified products that are not available. To better address this request and the urgency of the knowledge requirement, we partnered with Blue House Energy as their energy advisors have developed courses to help provide education on this topic. WRLA members receive a 10% discount when they register. There is a snapshot of course offerings in the image on the next page. More information can be found on our website https://wrla.org/programs/training-courses.html. Carla from Blue House Energy will be available at the WRLA Booth during the Showcase to help our members navigate registration and provide a better understanding of the training suite as well. Do you have a go to Building Science guru in your store? If the answer is no, now might be the perfect time to appoint that person! Understanding the challenges that our members are facing on the recruitment and retention side, and our ever-evolving workforce, a focus has been made to offer programs that bring newcomers to the industry up to speed rapidly without disrupting the workflow of experienced staff. Starting on April 1st your membership will include a suite of onboarding courses which includes Industry Terminology and the Building Materials Fundamentals. We learned through the pandemic that there exists a knowledge gap

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TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

on where materials come from. To address some of these retention and knowledge base issues, we developed what we see as the standard in onboarding new employees. By offering this program, we can give time back to the business to focus on more workplace specific training while our online tools can be introduced to deliver the base fundamentals of building materials that you sell. Also new for 2024 is the “Increasing Profitability Through Yard and Warehouse Mangement” course. Levels 1 through 3 will be available in a hybrid format (mix of in-person with live streaming) as well as in an online format. Based on member feedback this is an area where turnover tends to be high. As such, we wanted to make it clear that yard and warehouse management is an important function, has a direct impact to profitability and professionalism in this area needs to be elevated. The first installmaent takes place Wednesday January 17 at the 2024 WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase in Winnipeg. To register for this course and learn more about the other courses we have to offer, please scan the QR code on the right.

PHOTO: BLUE HOUSE ENERGY

By providing our members with the proficiency required for effective communication and collaboration within the industry, we help our members’ businesses become more profitable. A more knowledgeable staff is a more efficient staff, and, in our industry, time is money!

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TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

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ADVOCACY

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS UPDATE—WESTERN RETAIL LUMBER ASSOCIATION Wes McLean, Prospectus Associates

OUR OUTREACH The WRLA has had an active year in its continued advocacy efforts with federal and western provincial governments, with a view to representing our members’ interests and advocating for policy solutions that assist not just the LBM sector, but the economy as a whole. Last year’s trade show was attended by various cabinet ministers, MLAs, and the acting deputy mayor of Winnipeg. Members also briefly met former Premier Heather Stefanson at the Manitoba Legislature. During the summer and fall, our government relations focused in particular on the “Let’s Go Build” campaign, with significant outreach in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. WRLA members met, prior to the Manitoba election, with two deputy ministers to discuss our initiatives. Virtual meetings were also held with Saskatchewan government staff. This is an educational initiative aimed at attracting newcomers to our industry and reducing labour shortages in this vibrant sector. Attracting new talent is an ongoing challenge for our members despite offering careers with good remuneration, growth and learning opportunities, stability, pride, and integrity. There are opportunities in the industry for youth, newcomers to Canada, under-represented groups (e.g.: women, Indigenous people, and people of colour), people looking for career transitions, those in polytechnics or trade schools, people specializing in warehouse or sales positions, and those in HR, accounting, or tech roles. We are engaging in productive discussions with SK public servants and wish to familiarize you with this initiative. Due to the change in government in Manitoba, we will redouble our efforts to secure provincial funding for this worthwhile and innovative initiative. On November 28 and 29, WRLA board members and Liz Kovach, President of WRLA, undertook the second annual Saskatchewan Legislative Outreach meetings. “Let’s Go Build” was a continued area of focus. Meetings occurred with the following individuals:

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ADVOCACY

• The Honourable Jeremy Harrison, Minister of Trade and Export Development and Minister of Immigration and Career Training • The Honourable Gordan Wyant, Minister of Advanced Education • The Honourable Christine Tell, Minister of Environment • Carla Beck, Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the New Democratic Party • Jeremy Brick, Director of External Relations, Office of the Premier of Saskatchewan • Lindsay Freistadt, Assistant Deputy Minister, Ministry of Trade and Export Development There is a lot planned for the upcoming year, with attention focused on the 2024 Building & Hardware showcase. We will be inviting cabinet ministers, Members of the Legislative Assembly and Winnipeg City Councillors to join us on the showroom floor and to officially kick-off the event. We will also begin planning our Second Annual Manitoba Legislative Outreach meetings, as the general election this fall precluded us from undertaking it earlier. We are also looking at undertaking, for the first time, a similar lobby day in Alberta in 2024.

CONTEMPORARY POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT—OTTAWA AND THE PRAIRIE PROVINCES The federal political scene can be described as chaotic. The current Liberal government has been under immense scrutiny for recent exemptions to the carbon tax for certain home heating sources. In addition to a carbon tax exemption bill that was heavily amended in the Senate, the opposition engaged in a filibuster near the end of the 2023 session, the purpose of which was to eliminate the carbon tax by proposing numerous amendments to a budget-related bill. All polling sources show the current Liberal government well behind the Opposition Conservatives in voting intentions, though the government maintains a confidence-and-supply agreement with the New Democratic Party, ensuring passage of key bills such as budget items. That arrangement is supposed to remain in place until the next scheduled federal election in 2025, though if the NDP were to withdraw its support, an election could occur much sooner. In Alberta, Premier Danielle Smith, leader of the United Conservative Party (UCP), having been re-elected to a reduced majority earlier in 2023, is combatting the federal government on several fronts, including the possibility of withdrawing from the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and targeting what her government views as destructive energy-related policies imposed by Ottawa. In Saskatchewan, Premier Scott Moe also takes issue with federal policies, including net-zero emissions policies that the Premier believes will phase out the energy sector completely. The Premier took issue with the federal government’s announcement, during the COP28 climate conference, of a framework to cap oil and gas sector emissions at 35 to 38 percent below 2019 levels by 2030. Manitoba NDP Premier Wab Kinew enjoys a continued honeymoon with voters after his party’s convincing majority government victory in the October election. His government recently completed its first legislative session, and healthcare reform is a dominant theme of his government. In a recent fiscal update, the current government is predicting a $1.6 billion deficit, though the Opposition contends those numbers are inaccurate. WRLA will continue to advocate for our members as we proceed into 2024 and keep everyone up to date on our activities and the results of our efforts. If you have a passion for government relations, and would like to join our committee, please contact Liz Kovach at lkovach@wrla.org.

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ADVOCACY BULLETIN

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ADVOCACY

LABOUR CHALLENGES— JUST THE FACTS! Chris Allinotte, WRLA

To learn more about the Alberta Building Supply Sector Labour Market Information Study, scan the QR Code.

ecently, we published the full results of the 2022/2023 Labour Study that WRLA conducted in partnership with the province of Alberta. The entire study is available for you to download on our website now. Just scan the QR Code to the left.

While the figures tell the story of a lot of job openings that are currently waiting for employees to fill them, they also indicate that there is significant growth on the horizon in our sector. As part of our commitment to our members to attract new talent to the industry and help fill some of these roles, we’re building on the awareness of our “Let’s Go Build” campaign and embarking on a series of career fairs across Western Canada to help guide the hundreds of job seekers to their next great rewarding role in the Lumber and Building Materials Industry!

10000 In order to meet f ill current vacancies and meet anticipated sector growth demand, approximately 1,783 NEW EMPLOYEES WILL BE NEEDED EVERY YEAR FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS.

1,783 NEW EMPLOYEES WILL BE

8000 NEEDED EVERY YEAR FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS.

6000 4000 2000 0

2024

2025

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Winter 2023

2027

2028

ADVOCACY

ALBERTA’S BUILDING SUPPLY SECTOR COMPRISES:

6. THE INDUSTRY IS EXPERIENCING GROWTH

Approximately 28,500 employees working at 2,126 establishments

2. RESPONDENTS TO THE SURVEY REPRESENT 11.5% OF ALBERTA’S BUILDING SUPPLY SECTOR

New Building Investment Renovation Investment

40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0

11.5%

TWO-THIRDS OF THE WORKFORCE IS MALE

New Housing

17.2% 13.6%

15 to 24

40.2%

25 to 44 45 to 54 55 to 64 65 and over

47.9%

18.2% 19.8% 18.4% 15.0%

6.1% 3.7% 10

Building Supply Sector

All Industries

Workforce of Building Supply Sector and All Alberta Industries, by Major Age Group

5. TYPE OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS 21.6% Contractor Sales

43.1% Retail

19.6% Manufacturing

25%

23%

28%

27%

18%

Between 2017 and 2023, Alberta experienced overall growth in: 7.

4. AGE RANGES

35%

Property Conversion

OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, THE AVERAGE ANTICIPATED RATE OF RETIREMENT IS ESTIMATED TO BE 19% (APPROXIMATELY 4% PER YEAR)

19%

72.3% OF EMPLOYERS REPORTED THAT THEY EXPECT TO SEE AN INCREASE IN THE OVERALL SIZE OF THEIR WORKFORCE OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS.

8. HIRING EMPLOYEES FROM NON-TRADITIONAL LABOUR POOLS ACCOUNTS FOR ONLY APPROXIMATELY QUARTER OF NEW HIRES Females

38.2%

Youth

34.9% 41.7%

Indigenous persons New Canadians Persons with a disability

19.1%

8.8% 20

83.7% 62.5%

33.3% 20.1% 27.9% 40

Proportion of employers reporting having hired candidates from this labour pool

5.9% Wholesale

9.8% Distribution

100

Average proportion of new hires from this labour pool

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ILLUSTRATIONS: ALISA LUO

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PURPLE

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HR CORNER

UNLOCK SUCCESS: W LET’S GO BUILD YOUR TEAM WITH CAREER FAIRS

RLA launched the “Let’s Go Build” campaign in May of this year. This initiative has a singular purpose: to get more people working in the LBM Industry. The Labour Study that we conducted in partnership with the Government of Alberta in 2022/23 confirms the trends that we saw emerging. Businesses are growing, and employees are retiring. That has led to a situation where, in Alberta alone, there needs to be 1,783 new hires each year for the next five years just to fill the open jobs! Let’s Go Build’s first phase was all about awareness—showing the LBM Industry to the Canadian public at large and to those groups currently under-represented in our talent pool specifically including women, indigenous peoples, newcomers, and others.

“Teaming up with the WRLA to attend the Edmonton Career fair was a great opportunity to get our Kenroc brand more exposure in the Edmonton market. Attending the career fair as a united front was a perfect way to show the many faces of the construction industry and educate job seekers that there are many ways to get involved, both in and out of the hard hat.” —Natalie Longland, HR Generalist, Sexton Family of Companies

On November 15, WRLA attended the Edmonton Career Fair. President Liz Kovach, along with our own intern, John Carlo Mendoza, brought “Let’s Go Build” to the hundreds of job seekers at the event. We were joined at the event by WRLA Members: Durabuilt Windows & Doors, Taiga Building Products, and Kenroc Building Materials Co. Ltd. It was a great time, and a huge success, with all in attendance leaving with HUNDREDS OF RESUMÉS from promising prospects. This event was proof of concept for us that let us know that, as effective as our digital outreach has been, there’s so much more potential to bring people to our industry by going out there and connecting with them! Next up for WRLA, we’ll be hosting our own Career Fair at the 30th Anniversary Building & Hardware Showcase. It will take place in the registration area, starting at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, January 19. Local trade schools, colleges, newcomers, and employment agencies have been invited to attend, and we’re looking forward to a dynamic event within an event. Then, in 2024, we’ll be looking to build on these events and bring the Career Fair experience across the country to connect WRLA members and job seekers where they live. YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

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PHOTO: JOHN CARLO MENDOZA

John Carlo Mendoza, WRLA Intern

After just over seven months, multiple videos, podcasts, and hundreds of social media posts, the data tells us that word is getting out! But we still need people to start applying to jobs. So what’s next? Career fairs!

HR CORNER

TIPS TO HAVE A GREAT CAREER FAIR EXPERIENCE 1. DEFINE YOUR OBJECTIVES Identify the types of candidates you are seeking and the positions you aim to fill. This clarity will guide your interactions and help you make the most of the event. 2. PLAN TO SUCCEED Create an inviting booth reflecting your company culture. Use signage, banners, and promotional materials for visibility. Consider interactive displays to showcase values and opportunities, ensuring a standout presence. Prepare informative and visually appealing materials to distribute to attendees. This may include brochures, business cards, and branded giveaways. These materials serve as tangible reminders of your company and its offerings. Train your career fair team thoroughly with in-depth knowledge about the company, culture, and vacant positions. Offer guidance on effective communication and engagement strategies for success.

Above: Team Durabuilt Windows & Doors at the career fair.

3. ENGAGE, ENGAGE, ENGAGE! Initiate conversations at your booth; ask open-ended questions to understand candidates’ skills, interests, and career goals. This approach demonstrates genuine interest and results in more meaningful interactions. Clearly communicate the opportunities your company offers, including career paths, professional development programs, and any unique benefits. Emphasize what sets your organization apart and why it is an attractive place to work. Offer insights into your industry, trends, and the future of work. This positions your company as an industry thought leader and enhances your overall brand image. Conduct workshops or presentations if the event allows. Efficiently collect candidate information, including resumes and contact details, with a streamlined system. This ensures effective follow-up and enhances your recruitment process.

Above: In-person connections at career fairs make a big difference.

4. FOLLOW UP After the career fair, promptly follow up with personalized emails expressing interest and reiterating key points. Provide details on the next steps for a professional and committed approach.

PHOTOS: JOHN CARLO MENDOZA

Build a talent pipeline by staying in touch with promising candidates, even without immediate openings. This proactive approach ensures a pool of qualified individuals when positions become available. After the career fair, seek feedback from your team about what worked well and areas for improvement. This reflection process allows you to continually refine your approach for future events.

Members are you hiring in Manitoba? Join the WRLA Career Fair at the 2024 Showcase! Scan the QR Code to register!

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Above: Taiga Building Products at the career fair. 25

BETTER BUSINESS

BUSINESS STRATEGY IN FOUR STAGES Pete Baran, Blueneck Consulting

anada is gearing up for another chilly winter, one of four distinct seasons we get to experience each year. These seasons dictate our clothing choices, influence our leisure activities, and even impact our modes of transportation. But did you know that during a business’s lifespan, it goes through different “seasons” that profoundly affect its trajectory? These business seasons are distinct from the weather cycles that impact industries like construction; instead, they represent distinct business stages. Blueneck has identified four unique stages that nearly every established business will encounter at some point. Unlike the predictable progression of natural seasons, these stages are driven by the goals set by business leadership in response to business conditions:

STABILITY STAGE

In this initial stage, the primary objective for a business is to address the unpredictability and chaos it may be experiencing. Businesses in this stage want to reduce the stress of managing frequent changes, unwelcome surprises, and recurring issues that seem unresolvable. The effort can seem daunting. However, it can lead to the rewarding outcome of a profitable and enjoyable business.

EXPANSION STAGE

As businesses progress, they often seek growth opportunities to overcome stagnating results. The Expansion Stage is marked by optimism, ambitious objectives, and the disruption of existing patterns. Unfortunately, many businesses in this stage have more enthusiasm than a concrete plan, frequently underestimating or overlooking the challenges that come with substantial growth. Nevertheless, success in this stage can unlock significant opportunities to enhance market power and profitability.

VALUE BUILDING STAGE

Beyond financial gains, businesses in this stage aim to build equity across multiple dimensions. Here, value is measured not only by increased revenue but also by enhanced share value, owner’s equity, brand value, and a more sophisticated approach to leadership, revenue generation, business investment, and operations. Achieving this stage is often reserved for the most successful companies, yet opting for this goal can lead to substantial increases in wealth.

EXIT STRATEGY STAGE

The final stage revolves around business owners stepping back from daily operations to pursue other interests or retirement. For some, this stage is thrust upon them due to illness or age, rather than being a deliberate choice. Others plan for it, aiming to sell the business for a good price, explore partial sales, or pass the torch to the next generation or a loyal employee. Organizing the business for these options can be a two-year or longer endeavour, often driven by tax considerations and business reorganization. The payoff for these efforts can result in lifelong financial independence. Just as we prepare for the changing seasons in Canada, businesses must adapt to the various “seasons” they encounter throughout their journey. Each stage offers unique challenges and rewards, ultimately shaping the business’s success and the financial well-being of its owners. Understanding and navigating these stages can make a significant difference in the ultimate outcome of a business. Do you see your business in one of these stages and want to know how to master it? Visit us at the WRLA 2024 Showcase in Winnipeg or reach out to us directly at info@blueneck.ca.

Join Pete Baran in person at his PD Power Session, Hit by a ”Truck”, Now What? Succession Planning Workshop. Scan the QR Code to reserve your place!

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DOLLARS & SENSE

CANADIAN ECONOMIC OUTLOOK IN 2024 Travis Waite, WRLA

fter a historically down year in 2022 for the Canadian and World Economy, 2023 can only be classified as a bounce back in comparison.

negative real GDP growth) due to the slower-than-expected cooling of inflation. Many economists are split on whether a recession has been avoided or simply delayed.

Economic analysts agreed that 2023 would bring some relief from the crippling inflation that Canadians dealt with in 2022. Though the effects will continue into 2024 and beyond, the economic outlook now compared to a year ago is quite different.

The latest inflation data shows an annual increase of 3.1% in October, down 0.6% from 3.7% in September. This was welcome news and resulted in the Bank of Canada holding rates in October, as they have done for the past few months.

Let’s review some key areas that will contribute to the Canadian economy and try to make sense of what the data is showing and what experts are predicting in 2024.

A more concerning statistic comes when reviewing core inflation, which removes volatile items such as food and energy. It was 0.2% higher in October after rising 0.3% in September. This discrepancy between core inflation and inflation is due to food (particularly produce and meat) and gasoline prices being at or near all-time highs in the third and fourth quarter of 2022 and the relief we have seen in those areas since. This shows that these less volatile items have continued to grow moderately in price, due mainly to a continued imbalance of demand outweighing supply within the economy.

ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE In the summer of 2022, inflation in Canada was at its highest rate since the 1980s. As predicted, inflation has gradually decelerated since then. Gradual is the keyword in that phrase. Canada, thus far, has avoided a technical recession (two consecutive quarters of 28

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DOLLARS & SENSE

HOUSING PERFORMANCE

CONSUMER SPENDING

Aggressive interest rate hikes in 2022 and 2023 by the Bank of Canada caused Canadian housing markets to weaken in 2023, as predicted. Buyer demand for homes remains strong as the need for housing has increased due to high immigration and population growth numbers. Due to increased mortgage rates, decreases in construction and modest price increases in housing (Canadian housing prices were up 2.0% annually in October 2023), it is harder than ever for Canadians to afford housing. This struggle is accentuated for first home buyers.

During the height of Covid, household savings hit historically high rates due to low borrowing rates, decreases in household expenses and government subsidies and assistance. A strong underlying job market and wage increases further contributed to this on the tail end of the pandemic. This caused an influx of spending by consumers that in turn, has contributed to the heightened inflation numbers that we have dealt with the past two years.

Because of the housing boom during the pandemic, about 2.2 million, or nearly 50% of all mortgages in Canada, will be up for renewal in 2024 and 2025. Those renewing with fixed mortgage rates can expect increases to their monthly payments of around 30%, and those with variable mortgage rates are already experiencing these increases. The average fixed mortgage rate in Canada was 6.49% in September 2023, up from a historic low of 1.44% at the same time in 2021. These increases should further drive consumer spending down and help manage inflation numbers in 2024 and beyond, as consumers will likely reel back on discretionary spending to prioritize these higher mortgage payments. On the construction side, higher borrowing costs caused new residential home construction to fall in 2023, nearly 30% from peak levels seen in spring 2021. Non-residential construction has also slowed down about 3% per year to date. This trend is expected to continue into 2024, though over the long term, as interest rates and debt lowers, the need for more affordable housing should boost residential construction investments. Additionally, the opportunity to fast track the transition to clean energy will likely cause a lift to investments in structures, machinery, and equipment in the building industry.

LABOUR MARKET PERFORMANCE The Canadian job market is currently at an inflection point. Unemployment rates are on the rise, coming in at 5.7% in October 2023. Several factors are contributing to this, including hiring freezes, layoffs and labour supply increases due to immigration and population increases. Combining these factors with decreases in job vacancies and increases in wage growth at a faster rate than inflation, it is anticipated that unemployment will continue to rise. This would be a positive in some sense, as economists are projecting that unemployment will need to reach 6.0% to bring a sense of balance back to the job market. It is expected to be at or around that number by the end of 2023 and projections are estimating it will reach 6.5% by early to mid 2024, with some potential decreases towards the end of 2024.

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Canadian consumer spending held up remarkably well in 2023 due to this accumulation of household savings. Even now, in the face of increasing interest rates and household debt, household savings is higher than it was in the years leading up to the pandemic. A contributing factor of this is Canadians are stockpiling cash as they prepare for the increases in mortgage interest payments in the coming years. Canadian businesses can expect consumer spending to slowdown in 2024 as household savings dwindles in the face of higher debt and interest rates. Beyond 2024, Canadian consumer spending is expected to undergo a period of below average growth through 2026.

WHAT DOES THIS ALL MEAN? The resilience of the Canadian economy in 2023 has caused concern among experts as to how inflation will reach the Bank of Canada’s target rate of 2% without further interest rate hikes. The economic downturn in 2023 has been slower than expected and GDP continues to experience modest increases, though it was flat in the second quarter of 2023 and is expected to remain relatively flat in 2024 or even negative, which could trigger a technical recession. It is predicted that the 2% benchmark will not be reached until the end of 2024 or even early 2025. Stock markets are currently anticipating a rate cut by the Bank of Canada in June 2024, but due to the slow nature of inflation cooling, it may not happen until that 2% benchmark is reached. The Bank of Canada has had an aggressive approach in rate hiking, which indicates they may take a slower approach in reducing rates to ensure the economy is set up to maintain its benchmark inflation target for the long run. Businesses should prepare for a slowdown in consumer spending as the effects of high interest and mortgage rates, household debts, and unemployment take their toll on consumer discretionary spending. The central bank met on December 6 and held their benchmark interest rate at 5% for the third straight time. They meet again on January 24, 2024 and will continue to make decisions based on key metrics like inflation data and expectations, wage growth, and consumer price setting behaviour. They have not ruled out more rate hikes if they don’t see more signs of these metrics slowing.

SAFETY CORNER

SAFETY IS A UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE AT ALL-FAB BUILDING COMPONENTS Paul Skelly, All-Fab Building Components

Above: Celebrating 431 Days of safe work at All-Fab on the Health & Safety board.

“To make the message of safety clear to all, we have translated key documentation and facility signage into common languages spoken by our team members.” YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

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PHOTOS: ALL-FAB BUILDING COMPONENTS

Above: All-Fab utilizes multi-lingual safety signage to ensure everyone gets the same message—safety first!

SAFETY CORNER

ince its founding in 1970, All-Fab Building Components has established a solid reputation as a trusted leader in the manufacturing of high-performance structural components.

All-Fab specializes in professional design and manufacturing of roof truss systems, floor systems, wall systems, engineered beams, and laminated posts.

AWARD-WINNING BUSINESS PRACTICES With the assistance of Made Safe (A CME initiative in Manitoba), All-Fab’s efforts and commitment to safety and health were officially and independently recognized and acknowledged in May of 2018 when the company became Safe Work Certified. The company was recertified again in 2021. Having recently completed an annual internal maintenance audit in August 2023, we recognize that though there have been great strides made, there exist areas and opportunities for continuous improvement. Always looking to be better, we believe that we are on the right path to evolving a successful safe work environment that is second to none in our industry. What safety means to all those at All-Fab is going home at the end of each day proud of the elite products we offer our customers—but even more importantly having produced those products with no sacrifice to the wellbeing and safety of all staff.

EVERYONE INVESTS IN THEIR OWN SAFETY The culture of safety first and foremost for the wellbeing of our work family is the mantra of the company from our CEO & President through every level and department here at All-Fab. Also, we extend our culture with regular safety talks and fostering an environment where voices are heard, and actions are taken.

SAFETY FOR ALL, CLEARLY By employing this best practice, we aim to ease the tension and burden on new employees as they acclimate into a new home and place of employment and to minimize any misunderstanding when it comes to policies, procedures, training materials, company messages, etc. As such, All-Fab Building Components is committed to making health and safety a priority for our employees, partners, customers, equipment, properties, and the environment. We prioritize the importance of health and safety over and above that of quality and production. Active participation by everyone, every day and in every job is necessary for the safety excellence we expect and strive for. As we continue to grow the All-Fab Group of Companies, and with the assistance of partners like Made Safe we will always be looking to optimize our efforts to be the best by recognizing safety first and achieve our goal to one day be injury and incident free.

We believe that this has been achieved by working with our team members and listening to and reviewing their input through Near Miss/Incident reporting, daily huddles, weekly toolbox talks, and an open-door policy for all. Allowing everyone to invest in not only their own safety but those around them as well. Additionally, All-Fab utilizes multilingual signage throughout the facility. YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

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PUSHING THE (BUILDING) ENVELOPE WITH JELD-WEN WINDOWS Chris Allinotte, WRLA

Above: JELD-WEN JWC8500 Series Casement Window. YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

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PHOTOS: JELD-WEN

BETTER BUSINESS

WHAT GOES INTO MAKING A WINDOW? At face value, and to the average consumer, the answer is, “plastic and glass”. If you’re a member of the WRLA, chances are your knowledge runs a bit deeper than that, and you can name a half dozen key components that go into making these critical parts of the family home. If you’re in the business of windows and doors, like JELD-WEN, the answer is, “way more than you’d imagine.” For every application, environment, and building type, there are thousands of hours of research, design, testing, and fabrication. For over 60 years, JELD-WEN has been committed to using only the highest quality materials and using every bit of those resources to their fullest. It’s a philosophy that has paid off, as today the company has approximately 21,000 people working worldwide, and has manufacturing, distribution, and showroom locations across the United States and in 24 countries, primarily within North America and Europe. In Canada alone, there are three window facilities and two interior door facilities, with the Winnipeg plant being the only one in North America that does windows, exterior doors, and interior doors. Jessica Brandstrom joined the company at their Winnipeg location in 2006, just a few years after the company expanded their manufacturing capability through the purchase of Willmar Windows and P C Henderson Doors. As many folks who find their way into the industry do, Jessica came to the manufacturing world through her experience in retail, having started out at a big box store in 2001.

WORLD-CLASS WINDOWS FROM A WORLD-CLASS TEAM Now, seventeen years later, Jessica is still having the time of her life at a company that values relationships and connections. “You’ll find a lot of people at JELD-WEN who’ve been there twenty, thirty, creeping up on forty years,” she says. “So, you know it’s a world-class company to work for.”

That world class team came together recently as talent from all three Canadian window manufacturing facilities joined forces to create their newest window line, including research and development, information technology, sales, project management, and the list goes on. “It was really cool to be a part of that team,” says Jessica. “Just to see all the different aspects of how a window gets made.”

GETTING READY FOR 2030 The project in question, that produced JELD-WEN’s most energy-efficient window to date, came in direct response to Canada’s changing building code requirements. New codes lay out energy efficiency requirements that lay out a path towards net-zero energy efficiency by 2030. Starting in 2024 all new builds must comply with at least the minimum standards laid out in the 2020 code, which was released in March of 2022. The 8500 series is the end result of that multi-year collaboration and is JELD-WEN’s first window to be designed specifically for the 2030 net-zero efficiency standard laid out in the new building codes. That’s not to say that their existing lineup isn’t impressive. They currently offer 27,000 different models that have ENERGY STAR® ratings. In fact, JELD-WEN was awarded the Manufacturer of the Year award by ENERGY STAR®, for a third consecutive year, as well as being nominated and awarded the Sustained Excellence award. The company is actively working on enhancing those product lines to ensure they’ll be fully ready to keep offering incredible choices with ever-improving energy efficiency.

COMING TOGETHER, STAYING TOGETHER In bringing the team together to develop the 8500 series, JELD-WEN also found opportunities to consolidate and align both their team and their products. “We’re eliminating a lot of waste,” says Jessica. “We’ve leaned into lean manufacturing. We’ve gone down from nine profiles across Canada to two for this frame.” In taking on this challenge, the quality of the product and the efficiencies they’ve found among all three plants have made positive, lasting changes on JELD-WEN’s processes.

NEW EFFICIENCIES, NEW PRODUCTS, NEW JOB OPPORTUNITIES! As the industry moves closer and closer to the Net Zero 2030 goals so many companies are needing to change, grow, and adapt their products and processes. That opens the door to thousands of new opportunities for people to join this industry and take on new challenges in fast-paced, collaborative environments. It also allows people looking to make a real impact on climate change in their personal lives to be a part of changing the world for the better.

PHOTO: JELD-WEN

“There’s so much growth,” says Jessica. “This is an incredible industry to be a part of.”

Members can find JELD-WEN and get a hands-on, up close and personal view of the new 8500 series at the 2024 WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase! Jessica Brandstrom, JELD-WEN Territory Sales Manager. YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

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BETTER BUSINESS

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BETTER BUSINESS

NAVIGATING THE DELIVERY METHOD MAZE: A GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND LUMBER STORES Kelsey Patrick, Falcon Equipment

n the competitive landscape of the building and lumber industry, making the right choices for your store’s operational needs is crucial. Choosing the best delivery method for your store isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. There are several factors that will determine which equipment solution will be best suited to your business. The industry you service, your product type, and your lifting application will be the biggest factors determining which delivery method you should be using. The masonry, drywall, lumber, and roofing industries all require different lifting solutions. Let’s embark on this journey to discover the equipment solution that will skyrocket your store to new heights. Zoom into the world of residential and commercial drywall/wallboard delivery—a realm of heavy loads and long reach challenges, demanding speed, precision, and the ability to handle high duty cycles. For this, Falcon Equipment, Canada’s leading truck-mounted crane supplier, recommends the Palfinger PW42 and PW50, equipped with custom 22 to 24.5-foot decks, as reliable solutions for these needs. For businesses catering to multi-family dwellings, the requirement for higher reach while maintaining capacity is paramount, and Palfinger’s offerings ensure you can maximize your legal payload capacity, thanks to their cranes’ minimal deadweight.

PHOTO: FALCON EQUIPMENT

In the realm of lumber delivery, the landscape changes, demanding versatility in handling varying loads and reach requirements. A crane with a 30-60 meter-ton rating, providing a reach of approximately 70 feet, is often found to be well-suited for such applications. If extended reach is necessary, jib packages are available to further enhance your equipment’s capabilities. Additionally, the Palfinger FHS truck-mounted forklift presents itself as an alternative or complementary solution, due to its operator ergonomics, maneuverability and rough terrain readiness.

The diverse needs of the roofing industry are best met with adaptable solutions such as the Palfinger PK370 TEC and the PK480 TEC. The Canadian market is evolving, and with it, the acceptance of nontraditional products like the knuckleboom jib, a solution that has proven its worth in the American roofing market for over a decade. That said, for those requiring additional capacity at the crane tip, a stiffboom crane package, like the National 690H or the NBT30H2, might be the better option. Masonry, with its heavy load demands yet shorter reach requirements, often leans towards a 35 to 50 meter-ton knuckleboom crane. Here, the Palfinger FHS truck-mounted forklift has also found popularity, offering all-wheel drive for optimum performance on challenging job sites. The FHS comes in multiple configurations. The four-way model is ideal for working in confined spaces with longer materials. The double reach model allows the operator to unload both sides of the truck from one single side of the truck. This is ideal for narrow alley ways in the big city. An often overlooked, yet crucial aspect in the decision-making process revolves around workforce capabilities. We know in this market it is difficult to find qualified people; this will impact which equipment package you decide to add to your fleet. If you have a new employee who does not have an airbrake, class 3, or class 1 license, you will need to pick a crane truck that falls under the requirements needed to operate the unit. This varies in each province, working with Falcon provides you the comfort of knowing you have an expert on your team. Conversely, fully licensed employees afford businesses greater flexibility in equipment utilization, significantly broadening operational capacities. Seeking expert advice is key in building the right equipment package for your business. Falcon Equipment takes pride in its knowledgeable sales team, ensuring you receive comprehensive support from the initial design phase through to the final installation. By doing so, you are guaranteed an equipment solution that’s perfectly aligned with your specific job requirements. With the right knowledge and resources, choosing the ideal delivery method for your business becomes a less daunting task, allowing you to focus on what you do best—serving the building and lumber industry with excellence.

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TECH CORNER

PROJECT MANAGEMENT THAT CLICKS (UP!) Rebekah Doerksen, WRLA

HOW DO YOU ORGANIZE YOUR WORK? How do you keep on top of those complex, ongoing projects? What about future projects, or goals that you need to lay groundwork for now but won’t come to fruition for several years? Where do you track your progress? You might be able to keep on top of those pieces with a good old notebook and a calendar, if you’re intentional about it. But as soon as you start managing a team of people, all contributing individually toward the larger goal, it gets complicated! The team at WRLA has experienced these growing pains. From this time last year, our team has doubled. Until recently, Liz, our fearless leader, was able to stay involved in the details of each department and keep the team on track. And then she got hit by a truck—literally. Her recovery time was intensive, and it was a challenge to stay on top of the team’s progress and ensure we had what we needed to keep moving forward. We have big goals to crush as a team—from advocacy with government, to putting on the biggest LBM industry trade show in Canada, to building our WRLA Academy. The team is busy, and we collaborate on many different projects.

WE NEEDED A SOLUTION! WRLA turned to a project management technology called ClickUp to address these issues. There are similar programs to choose from: Monday.com, Asana, and many others. But ClickUp had the options we were looking for. Pete Baran, of Blueneck Consulting, coached us through the organizing principles of project management. As with any new technology or system it’s important to have a logical flow and streamline how you use the tool, to get your team up to speed quickly. The tool has to be simple, usable, and useful. The first step is to identify who from your team will set up the project management tool.

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TECH CORNER

The next step is to determine your workflow. Have your project leader put your big workflow categories into ClickUp under “Spaces.” You might want a Space for HR, for example, or Sales. Under Spaces you’ll be able to create lists and folders to hold the Tasks and Subtasks needed for your projects. Tasks are the backbone of ClickUp. A task should always be assigned to a specific person. It can be reassigned later if needed. It should always have a start date (estimated) and a due date (can be a projection). At WRLA, we have decided to use custom fields for our team’s tasks to track the stage of each task: Not Started—Default for any task until it has been begun. Started—Mark once they begin to work on it or put it on an immediate to-do list. This lets the team know the task is on their radar. On Track—Nearing completion, there are no obstacles to completing this on time. Useful for more significant tasks with multiple subtasks and longer time frames. Waiting—Waiting for another team member or outside collaborator to get back to them. Stuck—Not sure what’s needed to keep moving on this. Signals to the team that they may need brainstorming or coaching to figure out the next steps. Completed—Hurray, it’s done! Deferred—Used on the rare occasion the team/manager decides this project or task is no longer a priority and should be set aside. We also have used custom fields in other areas. For example, our Marketing and Communications team tracks the number of touchpoints they make with each prospect for membership. Our WRLA Academy team tracks what stage of course development they are in with each module of our Building Materials Fundamentals course. This technology is very useful for collaborating—within each task you can tag in teammates, ask questions in the comment box, assign subtasks, and upload supporting documents. You can even track the time you spend on a task. Our team is still getting used to using this tool and incorporating it into our daily routine. There’s functionality we have yet to explore—forms, automation, and templates. But using a simplified rubric, we were able to get up and running quickly. ClickUp helps us get a snapshot of each team member’s workload and see where we need to redistribute or reprioritize. So far, the team has found ClickUp to be very user-friendly, flexible, and customizable to specific projects and workstreams. As with any tool, it’s only as good as those keeping it up to date. Once you start using it or another tool, prioritize checking in to make sure the team is able to keep it updated and troubleshoot with any team members who need review for the best way to organize their projects. Keeping it as simple as possible also helps keep the team engaged. With new technology, there’s always the danger that it will be a distraction rather than adding to the efficiency of the team. But with ClickUp, we found that the investment upfront in set up, the yearly subscription fees and staff training was well worth it! If you have any project management technology questions, feel free to contact Rebekah Doerksen, WRLA Executive Assistant, at rdoerksen@wrla.org.

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MEMBERS IN THE COMMUNITY

MEMBERS IN THE COMMUNITY MISSION BUILDING SUPPLIES HONOURED WITH AFP AWARD FOR 10+ YEARS’ SUPPORT OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY EDMONTON For more than 10 years, Mission Building Supplies, a locally owned and operated contractor lumber company, has been supporting Habitat for Humanity Edmonton ReStores, with donations totalling over $100,000. Supporting and giving back to the communities that they help build is a passion for Mission Building Supplies. The company regularly donates quality building supply products that are sold in ReStores to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity’s charitable work. Profits from ReStores support Habitat for Humanity’s mission to bring communities together to help families build strength, stability, and independence through affordable homeownership. Through this nomination, Habitat for Humanity Edmonton would like to recognize Mission Building Supplies for their reliable and generous support over the years, and for helping Habitat for Humanity Edmonton to fulfill their vision of a community where everyone has a decent place to live.

—Don Clements, President of Mission Building Supplies

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PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

“A key member of our staff pushed really hard for us to think about supporting Habitat and the ReStores. You don’t want to ignore good people on your team. It is the “helping people help themselves” aspect of Habitat that keeps us donating year after year.”

MEMBERS IN THE COMMUNITY

THE RONA FOUNDATION DONATES OVER $730,000 TO 175 ORGANIZATIONS ACROSS CANADA The RONA network rallied to help those in need by raising funds to revitalize living environments or make it easier to access housing. Boucherville (Québec), October 26, 2023—The RONA Foundation, which oversees the philanthropic activities of RONA inc., one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers operating the Lowe’s, RONA+, RONA, and Réno-Dépôt banners, is proud to announce the results of its new Home Sweet Home campaign, which ran from September 1 to October 9. Thanks to the involvement of our employees and the generosity of our customers, more than $730,000 will go towards revitalizing living environments or making it easier to access housing for victims of domestic violence and their children, low-income families, and people with special needs or mental health issues. The 175 organizations were selected separately by each local team.

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

“Creating and launching a new campaign in a difficult economic climate and rallying teams is a challenge in itself. I’m extremely proud of the great mobilization of our network and the RONA Foundation team,” says Josée Lafitte, Director of the RONA Foundation. “Our motivation is quite simply to help the most vulnerable people, since every person should have a safe and comfortable place to live.” The campaign took place in all our corporate stores in the RONA network, as well as in 4 distribution centres and nearly 30 participating affiliated stores across the country. Donations were collected at in-store checkouts and during online purchases on the lowes.ca, rona.ca and renodepot.com websites. YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

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GOLD

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IN MEMORIAM

IN MEMORIAM W

JOHN TEMPLETON

RLA remembers those members who have passed away this year, and the legacies they leave behind for their loved ones, and in our industry.

BRETT ROBERT ANDERSON Brett, age 38, passed away unexpectedly on February 25, 2023, at his home in Saskatoon, SK. Brett is survived by his mother, Lois (Lyle) Wood; his sister, Lauren Anderson; and his father, Michael Anderson. Brett joined Can-Wel in July of 2012 as an Inside Sales Rep before moving to the Saskatoon Commodity Trader position in 2018. The family expresses heartfelt appreciation for the First Responders who cared for Brett.

GLEN CHRISTIANSEN Glen Shane Christiansen, age 59, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away on June 24, 2023 after his hard-fought battle against Glioblastoma. Born on January 26, 1964, Glen lived a life full of laughter, love, and adventure. Glen is survived by his loving wife, Donna, his devoted children, Dana (Doug) and Ric, and his supportive brothers, Kevin (Pat) and Bradly (Jennifer) and their families. Glen’s memory will live on through the many lives he touched with his kindness, intelligence, and humor.

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

As a successful business owner of Acme Farm & Building Centre, Glen was well-respected in his community and took pride in his work. Glen’s interests were as diverse as his personality. He enjoyed vacations to Hawaii, driving his Z4 with the top down, hiking, skiing, and crushing his family at the board game Clue. Above all, Glen cherished quiet nights at home with his wife Donna, creating a lifetime of memories together. Glen’s family would like to thank the Three Hills Hospital for their amazing care during his final weeks and the support they have received from the Tom Baker Cancer Centre.

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Winter 2023

John Templeton passed away, lovingly surrounded by his family, on Friday, February 10, 2023, at the age of 63 years, following a short battle with metastatic colorectal cancer. John was a proud Sheldon Williams student and athlete. He spent his entire working career in retail and wholesale building supplies where he developed lifelong friendships— Boychuk, Bison, Fisher, Sasko, Henderson Dist./JELD-WEN, CWD, Gentek, and most recently Creative Door Services. Above all else, John’s greatest love was his family. He always looked forward to family holidays and spending time with his kids. He loved to make people laugh and passed that special trait on to his kids. He was also a huge fan of all sports with his favourite teams being the Saskatchewan Roughriders, the New York Rangers and the Detroit Lions.

ROB CHIMKO Robert Chimko passed away in his family home on Monday, February 13, 2023. Rob went peacefully and without pain; albeit much too soon. After sweeping sawmills during university, Rob found his way into the lumber business. In 1991, he joined Dakeryn Industries where he would spend the rest of his career. He assembled a very strong team of Partners, ultimately became President of the company, and led its growth from 3 to 150 employees with operations across the globe. He wanted to build something great and take as many people along for the ride as possible and that is exactly what he did. Rob truly lived his life to the fullest and never waited to enjoy it. He loved to fish, golf, travel, and host gatherings. He enjoyed cooking for others and a good glass of wine or a cold Molson Canadian. He made a point of celebrating every holiday and milestone, even the small ones like Friday lunch or happy hour. He always found a way to bring people together and we were all excited to participate. Rob will be deeply missed. The outpouring of support the family has received since his passing has been extraordinary and they are proud that he has touched many lives. He will always be remembered for his generosity, kindness, positive attitude, and love for everyone around him. 41

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Winter 2023

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2024 WRLA BUILDING & HARDWARE SHOWCASE FLOOR PLAN

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Winter 2023

Presented by:

CALLING ALL WRLA RETAILERS: WRLA 2024 SHOWCASE IS BIGGER & BETTER THAN EVER! IF YOU HAVEN’T REGISTERED... NOW IS THE TIME! JOIN US AT THE WINNIPEG CONVENTION CENTRE JANUARY 17-19 FOR THREE ACTION-PACKED, IMPACTFUL DAYS— FILLED WITH HUNDREDS OF NETWORKING AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES PRESENTED BY CANADA’S TOP BUILDING MANUFACTURERS, DISTRIBUTORS, AND SERVICE PROVIDERS.

Check it out! Scan the code to go to our WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase home page, your one-stop shop for everything to do with this year’s event!”

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THIS YEAR, THE SHOWCASE HAS BEEN REIMAGINED.

3. Hungry? Grab a snack at the RONA Popcorn Shack.

Since the Showcase’s inception 30 years ago, the WRLA has embarked on a remarkable journey filled with innovation, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. Each Showcase undertaken, every challenge conquered, and every success achieved has shaped the future of the WRLA. Ergo, this year, the WRLA is Framing the Future. Framing the Future isn’t just about reminiscing; it’s about looking forward. We are excited about the future and the opportunities it holds. As we continue to innovate and grow, we invite you to be a part of the journey ahead! Here’s what you can look forward to: 1. Practice Your Golf Swing or Get a Massage at the Johns Manville Clubhouse

4. Thirsty? Stop by the Falcon Equipment Hydration Station, The Taiga Tavern, the BP Canada Brewery or the CashierPRO Love Local Brewery (PS. They’re giving away a basket of Canadian goodies).

PHOTO: ANTHONY FERNANDO

2. Get an Autograph from Chris Walby—CFL Hall of Famer—and while you’re at it, see how hard and fast you can throw a Football at the AD Football Booth of Fame.

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Winter 2023

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5. Win a trip to Churchill, Manitoba, where you can spot belugas and polar bears, just by attending the Keynote Breakfast presented by Durabuilt Windows and Doors or catch some java at the Star Building coffee bar!

8. Let loose at the WRLA Awards Reception Thursday evening presented by American Express—catch the announcement of the next Showcase location while sipping on a Woodsy Ol’ Fashioned sponsored by Dakeryn or an espresso martini at the Boozy Café sponsored by Eli Chem. And enjoy a “killer” performance by the duelling pianos of Winnipeg’s own Killer Keys duo!

PHOTO: ANTHONY FERNANDO

6. Hit the Books at one of the many PD Sessions brought to you by Home Hardware, available from seasoned pros—sessions on Sales. Marketing. Recruitment and Succession Planning.

7. Get a cool set of wheels at the Truck Giveaway Station, brought to you by Brandish Agency in partnership with Birchwood Automotive Group.

PLUS: Celebrate as the WRLA marks 30 years of connecting members to members at the 2024 Building & Hardware Showcase! This is your best opportunity to learn what’s needed for you and your business to thrive in 2024, and beyond. As an LBM PRO—this showcase is your starting line for a successful year. Meet exciting new partners, strengthen current relationships, and talk strategy with top leaders for a better business and a better bottom line.

YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE—LEVEL UP

LOOKING TO SUPERCHARGE YOUR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN A SINGLE DAY? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE 2024 SHOWCASE, FEATURING FOUR EXCEPTIONAL WORKSHOPS DESIGNED TO ELEVATE YOUR SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE ON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17 AT THE DELTA MARIOTT. HOSTED BY INDUSTRY-LEADING EXPERTS, THESE WORKSHOPS COVER A RANGE OF TOPICS, ENSURING THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE.

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Winter 2023

PHOTO: WWW.RRC.CA/ALUMNI

LEVEL UP YOUR SKILLS IN JUST ONE DAY AT THE HOME HARDWARE PD POWER SESSIONS!

2024 SHOWCASE—LEVEL UP

SALES & MARKETING STREAM Morning Session: Increase Sales by... Selling! Ever wondered what it takes to close a deal successfully? Rob McIntyre from Dale Carnegie Training has the answers. In this dynamic morning session, participants will delve into the art of effective salesmanship. From approaching new business ventures to mastering the art of persuasion, Rob’s insights are sure to provide a fresh perspective on boosting your sales game.

RECRUITMENT & BUSINESS PLANNING STREAM Morning Session: Recruit, Retain, and Excel in the LBM Industry Natalie Bell, a People & Culture Consultant, leads a morning workshop focused on the lifeblood of any successful business—its people. Learn the essentials of recruiting the right talent, retaining top performers, and unlocking the potential of your team. Natalie will share strategies for not only attracting skilled individuals but also creating an environment that fosters loyalty and excellence.

Afternoon Session: Relationship Marketing— Connecting Audiences & Conducting Sales Join Kirstie Carruthers and Andrea Budd from velvettheory for an engaging afternoon session on the crucial intersection of marketing and sales. Discover how aligning these two critical functions can enhance performance across various business aspects, from lead generation to customer retention. Uncover the secrets to building lasting relationships with your audience while driving sales growth.

Afternoon Session: You Got Hit by a “Truck,” Now What? Business Succession Planning Peter Baran of Blueneck Consulting guides participants through the critical process of business succession planning. It’s never too early to prepare for the day you step back from running your business. Gain insights into what truly drives the value of your business to potential buyers or investors. From assessing your company’s worth to navigating the intricacies of succession, this workshop equips you with the knowledge to secure your business’s future.

PHOTO: ANTHONY FERNANDO

The best part? All these workshops are included in the cost of registration or exhibiting, making it an exceptional value for both attendees and exhibitors. Whether you’re in sales, marketing, recruitment, or business planning, these PD Power Sessions promise a day of valuable insights, practical strategies, and networking opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to level up your skills and make 2024 your most successful year yet!

What are you waiting for? Only 100 spots per session available. Scan to register now!

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Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE—CHALLENGE YOURSELF

CHALLENGE YOURSELF TO BE EXTRAORDINARY: UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL WITH LAUREN JOHNSON DATE JANUARY 18, 2024 TIME 7:30 – 9:30 A.M. LOCATION YORK BALLROOM, CONVENTION CENTRE Presented by:

DON’T MISS OUT!

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This exclusive breakfast event is included free with your admission, but pre-registration is required. Enjoy a hot, plated breakfast ahead of what’s sure to be a highlight of the show—our keynote speech by Lauren Johnson! Register for the breakfast by scanning the QR Code now!

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Win a Trip for Two to Churchill! Kayak with Belugas, See Polar Bears, & Catch the Northern Lights! COMPLIMENTS OF CALM AIR AND LAZY BEAR LODGE & EXPEDITIONS

Winner Drawn at Breakfast!

re you ready to transform your life, make impactful choices, and achieve your fullest potential?

The WRLA is thrilled to present an exclusive event featuring the renowned expert in mental conditioning and business coaching, Lauren Johnson! Kick-off the Showcase with breakfast and a keynote presentation on “Achieving Extraordinary Results,” brought to you by Durabuilt Windows & Doors! Great leaders emerge from a mindset that not only embraces challenges but thrives under pressure, consistently striving for extraordinary results. According to Lauren Johnson, individuals can choose to become elite by understanding and owning the choices necessary to achieve their goals. This session promises to equip you with strategies, tactics, and tips to turn your plans into decisive actions.

PLUS: DELICIOUS BREAKFAST Kickstart your day with a scrumptious plated breakfast included with the cost of show registration, ensuring you’re fueled and ready to absorb the wisdom Lauren Johnson has to offer.

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TAIKO DRUMMING Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of Taiko drumming, adding an element of energy and inspiration to the atmosphere. COFFEE BAR Enjoy a variety of coffee options from the coffee bar sponsored by Star Building Material, allowing you to stay alert and engaged throughout the morning.

Why Attend? Lauren Johnson, a Mental Performance Coach and Keynote Speaker, has worked with CEOs, professional athletes, and Fortune 500 companies. Her expertise extends through national speaking engagements, workshops, and consulting. Before establishing her own consulting practice, Lauren served as the Mental Conditioning Coordinator for the New York Yankees. With a Masters Degree in Performance Psychology from National University, Lauren’s practical, straight-forward advice and mental performance strategies are designed to help individuals become elite decision-makers. Her core belief is that one becomes elite by choice, not by chance.

It’s Time to Elevate Your Potential! YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE—CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: WRLA AWARDS RECEPTION RE-IMAGINED Presented by:

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n the spirit of recognizing and honoring industry excellence, the WRLA is thrilled to announce its prestigious Awards Reception, presented by American Express. This night of glamour and celebration promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring various sponsors who have graciously contributed to making it an evening to remember.

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Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE SPONSORS

NEXT YEAR’S SHOWCASE LOCATION ANNOUNCED As the evening unfolds, anticipate the unveiling of the Request for Proposal (RFP) winner for next year’s showcase location. Don’t miss this exciting announcement, offering a glimpse into where the WRLA Awards Reception will dazzle and inspire next year.

DOMAN BUILDING MATERIALS SILENT AUCTION FOR TREE CANADA

THE DUPONT, FIBER & FROTH LOUNGE Raise your glass to a night of success at the Fiber & Froth Lounge, sponsored by DuPont. Celebrate in style with a selection of beverages that mirror DuPont’s commitment to innovation and excellence across various industries. Cozy up to DuPont, and you just might get some complimentary drink tickets.

This year, the WRLA is proud to introduce the Doman Building Materials Silent Auction with all proceeds dedicated to TREE CANADA’s National Greening Program. Attendees will have the opportunity to bid on an array of extraordinary prizes while contributing to a meaningful cause. TREE CANADA’s National Greening Program focuses on mass seedling planting initiatives, addressing the critical need for reforestation and afforestation across Canada. Prizes for Grabs: Eli-Chem Resin Bar Top Table & Stools Dyson Hair Wrap Apple Watches Tickets to the Jets AND MORE!

PHOTO: ANTHONY FERNANDO

By participating in the Doman Building Materials Silent Auction, attendees not only stand a chance to win incredible prizes but also contribute to TREE CANADA’s mission of creating a greener, more sustainable future for Canada.

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Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE SPONSORS

PASSED APPETIZERS BY VICWEST

BOOZY CAFE BY ELI-CHEM

Enjoy a variety of sumptuous passed appetizers sponsored by Vicwest. Their dedication to quality craftsmanship extends from building materials to culinary delights. Expect nothing short of excellence as you embark on a culinary journey through these exquisite offerings.

Start your evening on a high note at the Boozy Cafe, sponsored by Eli-Chem. Indulge in specially crafted caffeinated cocktails and drinks that will tantalize your taste buds.

DANCE FLOOR BY CHERRY INSURANCE

APPETIZER STATION BY NUCOR HARRIS REBAR

Dance the night away on the spectacular dance floor, sponsored by Cherry Insurance. With their dedication to providing solid foundations and support, the dance floor is guaranteed to be a lively space where guests can let loose and celebrate their achievements.

Nucor Harris Rebar invites you to savor delectable bites at the Appetizer Station. Their commitment to strength and resilience extends beyond construction to creating a culinary experience that will leave you craving more.

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Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE SPONSORS

CANDY BAR BY VELVETTHEORY Indulge your sweet tooth at the Candy Bar sponsored by velvettheory. Immerse yourself in a world of confectionery delights that showcase the sweetness of success, just like the innovative marketing solutions provided by velvettheory.

GRAB N GO SNACK BY CLOVERDALE PAINTS Indulge your palate with the Grab n Go snack from Cloverdale Paints as you bid adieu to the night. Express your artistic flair and carry with you a slice of the evening, mirroring the vibrant and diverse palette that defines Cloverdale Paints’ renowned commitment to colour.

AND MOS T IMP OR TAN T LY :

WOODSY OL’ FASHIONED NIGHT CAP BY DAKERYN Wrap up your evening with a touch of sophistication at the Dakeryn Night Cap Bar where you can order one complimentary Woodsy Ol’ Fashioned with a sprig of spruce, sponsored by Dakeryn. Unwind in an ambiance that echoes Dakeryn’s commitment to timeless quality and service.

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Winter 2023

HONORING AWARD WINNERS The pinnacle of the evening will be the recognition of outstanding individuals in the industry. The WRLA Industry Achievement Award and the WRLA Sales Representative of the Year Award will be presented to those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and leadership. Join us for an evening of opulence, celebration, and recognition at the WRLA Awards Reception, sponsored by American Express. Let’s toast to the achievements of the past and the promising future that lies ahead for the industry’s finest.

2024 SHOWCASE—LBM LADIES

TRAILBLAZING THE TIMBER TRAIL: LBM LADIES LEADING THE WAY SPONSORED BY WEST FRASER

LADIES REGISTER NOW!

YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE—LBM LADIES

IN THE TRADITIONALLY MALEDOMINATED REALM OF LUMBER AND BUILDING MATERIALS (LBM), A SEISMIC SHIFT IS UNDERWAY AS WOMEN ASCEND TO PROMINENT LEADERSHIP ROLES, STEERING THE INDUSTRY TOWARDS A FUTURE DEFINED BY INNOVATION, DIVERSITY, AND SUCCESS.

oin us in celebrating the remarkable journey of the LBM Ladies Leading the Way, proudly sponsored by industry stalwart West Fraser and presented by the WRLA Women’s Council; this LBM ladies-only event with renowned expert in mental conditioning and business coach, Lauren Johnson, will take you through a journey of self-discovery, support, and growth, where women from all walks of business come together to inspire and uplift one another. This special event will take place on January 18, 2024, from 10:00 a.m .to 11:00 a.m. on the second floor of the RBC Convention Centre Presentation Theatre. Be sure to register.

Together, we are dedicated to paving the way for increased opportunities, support, and recognition for women in the building supply sector. What sets our council apart is not only our commitment to our own progression but also our dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders. Through impactful mentorship initiatives, we ensure that the industry’s legacy of progress and excellence is passed on to inspire and empower future professionals. Join us in shaping a more inclusive, diverse, and successful future for women in the building supply industry.

LAUREN CHIMKO Lumber Trader and Junior Partner Dakeryn Industries | Burnaby, BC

JODIE PORTER Assistant Branch Manager Taiga Building Products | Edmonton, AB

MICHELLE THOMPSON Vice-President of Sales Pinkwood Ltd. | Calgary, AB

In West Fraser’s Footsteps

ROBI DOELL General Manager The Ultimate Deck Shop | Saskatoon, SK

As a key player in the industry, West Fraser understands the importance of supporting and promoting diverse leadership. By sponsoring LBM Ladies Leading the Way, West Fraser continues on a path of progress and empowerment, echoing the ethos of innovation and resilience that defines West Fraser’s own journey.

JIL REID Outside Sales Manager All-Fab Building Components | Saskatoon, SK

At the heart of this movement is a commitment to fostering collaboration and inclusivity. West Fraser, through its sponsorship, emphasizes the value of a collective approach, acknowledging that diverse perspectives contribute to the industry’s overall strength and adaptability.

WRLA Building on Momentum

HEIDI WERSCHLER Director of Business Development Eli-Chem Resins Canada | Winnipeg, MB

SAR AH HOUNSLOW President BMF | Burlington, ON

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

The WRLA Women’s Council is a dynamic and vibrant memberbased committee committed to advancing women in the building supply industry. Stay-tuned for events and programs that will allow you to engage in collaborative efforts with like-minded professionals, sharing your expertise and championing the cause of gender diversity in our industry.

K AYL A MCISA AC Business Development Specialist Epak Inc. | Winnipeg, MB

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Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE—FRAMING THE FUTURE

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FRAMING THE FUTURE AT BOOTH #838: CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF BUILDING SUCCESS 58

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Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE—FRAMING THE FUTURE

AS THE WESTERN RETAIL LUMBER ASSOCIATION (WRLA) MARKS THREE DECADES OF SHOWCASE EXCELLENCE, THE SPOTLIGHT IS ON INNOVATION AND PROGRESS. BROUGHT TO YOU BY ALLFAB BUILDING COMPONENTS, THE WRLA BOOTH IS A MUST-VISIT EXPERIENCE AT THIS YEAR’S EXHIBITION, SYMBOLIZING THE ASSOCIATION’S COMMITMENT TO “FRAMING THE FUTURE.”

mmerse yourself in the rich history and forward-looking vision as you explore a framed home that encapsulates the essence of 30 years of success; grab our strategic plan, a copy of the Yardstick, or our education look-book!

Enter to Win a Brewery Tour with the WRLA Team when You Stop by the WRLA Booth!

PLUS: DON’T MISS RETAILER— SPECIFIC LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES THROUGHOUT THE DAY

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (PD) SESSIONS SCHEDULE:

12 :00 - 12 :45 PM MARKUP VS MARGINS BY HANEY BUILDERS Join us for a round table discussion about the nuances of effective pricing and how to achieve sustainable profitability in your business. 1:00 - 1:45 PM MAXIMIZING YOUR STORE’S PROFITABILITY BY BMF Unlock the secrets to an optimized store with BMF. Learn how strategic design can enhance customer experience and maximize profitability in your retail space. 2 :00 - 2 :45 PM STRATEGIES FOR MAXIMIZING SALES IN THE ONLINE MARKETPLACE BY TOOLBX Explore the world of E-Commerce with TOOLBX and discover how to leverage online platforms for effortless revenue generation. Uncover strategies to make your online presence work for you. 3 :00 - 3 :45 PM HOW EFFICIENCY MB CAN HELP GROW YOUR BUSINESS BY EFFICIENCY MB Efficiency MB introduces innovative energy programs that benefit both the environment and your bottom line. Learn how sustainable practices can drive customer spending. 4 :00 - 4 :45 PM INNOVATION THINK-TANK BY THE WRLA Engage in a thought-provoking Innovation Think-Tank led by industry expert and WRLA President, Liz Kovach. Brainstorm and discuss crucial advocacy topics shaping the future of the lumber and building materials industry.

10 :00 - 10 :45 AM WHY YOUR BENEFITS PROBABLY SUCK BY PIB Understand the evolving landscape of employee benefits with PIB. Discover strategies to enhance your benefits program and attract top talent in a competitive market. 11:00 - 11:45 AM PSYCHOLOGY OF CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR IN RETAIL BY BRANDISH AGENCY

Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate 30 years of success, gain valuable insights, and be a part of the exciting future that the WRLA and All-Fab Building Components are framing for the industry. Visit our booth, enter to win, and join us in shaping the future of lumber and building materials.

Gain insights into the psychology that drives purchasing decisions, empowering you to tailor your retail strategies accordingly.

YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE—WRLA ACADEMY

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NEW WRLA ACADEMY COURSE: IMPROVING PROFITABILITY THROUGH YARD & WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT

YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE—WRLA ACADEMY

THIS COMPREHENSIVE COURSE, SPANNING THREE LEVELS, IS DESIGNED TO EQUIP LOGISTICS AND WAREHOUSE PROFESSIONALS WITH THE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS NECESSARY TO ACHIEVE EXCELLENCE IN WAREHOUSE OPERATIONS.

hroughout the course, participants will gain a deep understanding of critical aspects of warehouse management and develop strategies for optimizing efficiency, reducing costs, and fostering a culture of excellence.

Member Cost (Level 1 only) $499

Member Cost (Levels 1-3) $1,199

Jan 17, 2024 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Delta Marriott, 2nd Floor, Reception Room

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Government training grants available for the Levels 1-3 package. Check our website or scan the QR Code for more details.

YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE—INDUSTRY AWARD WINNER

“THE RIGHT PEOPLE, DOING THE RIGHT JOB, MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE.” A CONVERSATION WITH THE 2023 INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT, MURRAY FINKBINER Chris Allinotte, WRLA

HONESTY AND INTEGRITY WILL TAKE YOU A LONG WAY IN LIFE.

or Murray Finkbiner, it took him all the way from his dad’s lumber warehouse to a 51-year career in the Lumber and Building Materials Industry.

“I decided that working in the warehouse wasn’t what I wanted to do for the rest of my life,” said Murray. “It was a two-month deal, but I learned that lesson in honesty and integrity when a guy came in and asked me to throw two or three extra bags of concrete onto his truck, and he’d give me two bananas, and I was thinking, ‘Hey, my dad owns the place. Why would I do something like that? So yeah, honesty and integrity at a young age.”

Although the warehouse was a good first step, Murray soon found his way to Northwood Building Materials. After one summer working outside and not quite loving it, “I’m up on top of an A-frame counting mouldings and I’m like … I don’t want to do this anymore. I’m scared of heights!” he added with a laugh. At that point, Murray moved indoors to the order desk and found that sales was a much better fit. By that time, the job was a perfect way to spend the summers as he was working on his Bachelor of Commerce degree at the University of Calgary. In 1978, he graduated, and although he had a number of options presented from Toronto Dominion, Sears, and others,when Northwood Lumber came to the table with a great proposal, it was definitely the right fit at the right time. 62

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PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Right up until his retirement in 2022, honesty and integrity were one of the four key pillars that guided Murray’s leadership at AFA Forest Products (now Gillfor Distribution Inc.) and certainly the one that meant the most to him. “That’s something that I would not put up with—somebody being dishonest about anything.” The other pillars are quality products, super service, and being easy to deal with.

2024 SHOWCASE—INDUSTRY AWARD WINNER

People first (and second, and third …) As the President, Murray’s main focus was on human resources and public relations. Building a strong team, in particular, was something that was critically important to the company’s success. His humility comes through as he’s quick to acknowledge that his strength lay in making sure he hired great people for the roles and gave them the trust and guidance they needed to succeed. “We hired the best people we could get our hands on to build a team, a team that was going to be successful, and it was,” said Murray. Commitment to family is, perhaps, a great way of examining Murray’s career. It speaks to a philosophy of respect, kindness, humility, and care that has touched so many lives over the years. First and foremost, he credits Sandy, his wife of 42 years, for her constant and continued support over the years, as well as his two sons, Kent and Clay, who are working in the LBM industry, and his daughter, Tanis, who found her calling with TC Energy. Beyond his immediate family, Murray made sure to foster strong relationships with his employees and customers alike. He knew the names and personalities of everyone in the company and could often be found out in the field or in the offices, visiting with employees, finding out how they were doing and taking an interest in their lives. Each November and December, Murray would make the rounds in the Calgary area, paying a visit to each and every customer to make sure they knew their business was truly valued and appreciated.

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

After a year of working full-time in the lumber business, however, and starting to make money while having fun, it became clear that this was a career to stick with. He stayed with Northwood until some changes in the organization prompted a shift in their operations to Toronto. An Albertan through-and-through, Murray thanked them for the opportunity, but he wasn’t interested in making the move to Ontario. At that time, with his knowledge of the industry, he anticipated that he’d be seeing the company back out west before long, and in 1984, Murray (sure enough) got the offer to manage Northwood’s Calgary facility.

Murray held the President / COO position until 2022, when Gillfor Distribution Inc. acquired AFA. For someone just past the corner on 50 years in the industry, the change of ownership was as clear a signal as any that the time may be right to retire. “I hung around for a year as a senior advisor, and there weren’t many seniors in the company, so I didn’t have many people to advise,” joked Murray. “Anyhow, it was a precursor to retirement, I think, in a way. Certainly, there wasn’t the pressure I had before. And in June of this past year, I retired.”

“Murray’s career was not just about his personal success but ensuring the success A new opportunity comes knocking of all those around him. What sets Murray In 1988, when Northwood decided to sell off its western operations, apart from others is his genuine care and including the Edmonton office that Murry was currently working out of, and focus on Eastern Canada, that was his signal to move respect for the people he worked with. In back home to Calgary and start something new. This time with AFA Forest Products. some corporations, people remain name“Back then, they were just doing plywood; there was no OSB yet, less. Murray made a point of learning the so I thought that was a good fit. And it was an opportunity to bring names of all of the staff across the country, in pressure-treated lumber, which I had experience with. So I got a commission job at AFA Calgary, and I never looked back.” often inquiring about their families and life His career at AFA kept moving forward, and in 1995, Murray outside of AFA. It was this personal touch accepted an offer to become a partner in the company managing that made Murray not only a great leader the Calgary office and Western Canada. In 2014, after the passing of AFA founder Alan Jack, Murray was asked to take over as President but also a mentor and friend.” and Chief Operating Officer of AFA Forest Products, which he did. —Heather Harder, Gillfor Distribution Inc. YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE—INDUSTRY AWARD WINNER

“On behalf of the WRLA Board of Directors, I congratulate Murray Finkbiner on this achievement. The WRLA organization benefited greatly from Murray’s experience and guidance for many years. With his past and ongoing support of the WRLA’s efforts, the LBM industry is without a doubt better off for having had him as a leader in it. Congratulations, Murray!” —Andrew Reimer, Chair of the WRLA Board of Directors, General Manager at All-Fab Building Componets

A lasting legacy with the WRLA

Reflections on the industry—distribution makes a big difference

Murray’s well-informed advice has had an impact far beyond any one company. The WRLA, in particular, benefited from his experience, That focus on product assortment has, in Murray’s opinion, become honesty, and integrity as he served on the Board of Directors as the real secret to survival for companies in the modern Lumber and the associate for Alberta from 2006 - 2014. One of the achieve- Building Materials Industry, where technology has changed the ments he’s most proud of from that time is working with Mike Doyle way that everything is done, and the supply chain has very little and Ron West to create the Calgary Classic golf tournament at resemblance to its former self. Jim Thorogood’s Sundre Golf Course in support of bursaries and scholarships for WRLA members and their families to pursue further “Mills are now selling retailers direct and we’re taking care of the education. Murray personally worked on the tournament for 18 years. rural and smaller specialty shops in the distribution of commodities and allied products. So that’s changed, too. I would say you have In discussing the upcoming 30th Anniversary of the Building & to have a larger product line.” In addition to the product offering, Hardware Showcase, Murray recalled his first show. Murray pointed out that the wholesale distribution model is always going to have a place. “I didn’t understand too much about it because all we had was lumber and plywood. How do you set up a booth and have a bunch “You watch those shows like Dragon’s Den, Shark Tank … so many of samples and stuff that everybody already knows about?” Murray products come along, and they have no clue how to get them to recollected. “So, I was a little doubtful to start with. I remember the market. So, when it comes to products in our area, that’s where we first time we went out there; all we had for our booth was drapes, come in big time. Our ability is to get those products to everybody, one table, and a few samples on it. But man, did we have fun.” rural, city, you name it. We can get them all looked after. That’s our selling feature.” Years later, the Gillfor Distribution Inc. presence at the showcase consisted of 12 connected booths with a wide array of products, As we concluded our conversation, Murray had some parting advice both new and old. The show itself holds a special place in Murray’s for leaders in the industry, coming from his long and distinguished heart as an “equal opportunity for all” event that was always guar- career. anteed to generate some great conversations, a lot of fun, and the “Relationships are so key. Get the right people doing the right job. chance to deepen industry relationships. And honesty and integrity—that’s huge. For me, that’s probably number one.” Ultimately, these values are at the core of Murray’s personal philosophy, which also includes respect, hard work, humility, collaboration, and a great work environment.

What comes next? More great memories

And what else? “I’m getting a Zamboni job. I always wanted to drive a Zamboni,” said Murray, smiling. WRLA members can raise a glass to Murray at the WRLA Showcase Networking & Awards Night on Thursday, January 18. 64

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Winter 2023

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Presently, Murray is enjoying getting out to the golf course a lot more and spending time with Sandy, his children, and his grandchildren. His social calendar is as busy as it’s ever been, and he’s getting a lot of pleasure from retirement after a career full to the brim with great moments.

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GOLD

YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023

2024 SHOWCASE APP

New and improved wayfinding! Based on feedback from everyone who used the app last year, we’ve also made a major upgrade that we’re positive you’ll appreciate. This year, we’ve added an interactive, zoomable floor plan! You’ll be able to find the booths you want to visit in just seconds, as well as the exact location of the Clubhouse, the Tavern, or any of the other incredible events and activities we’ve got going on this year. As in the past, you’ll also get notifications about important events starting, be able to learn more about the fantastic lineup of speakers and workshops we’ve got planned at the Showcase, and even connect to other members through instant messaging! If you haven’t already, download the app from the Google or Apple online stores (just scan the QR code at the end of this story). For those who still have the app from last year, make sure to update it for this year’s version.

But wait … there’s so much more! When the 2024 Showcase has come and gone—and kicked off your year with a bang—don’t delete the app!

WHAT’S APP-ENING? THE WRLA MOBILE APP IS BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER!

here’s an unwritten rule that many of us have when it comes to our mobile devices, and that is—if an app can’t do something better than just going onto a website, then that app doesn’t get to take up space on your device. Luckily, the WRLA mobile app has proven itself to be an invaluable way to enhance your experience at the WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase. So, we’re bringing it back, and you’re going to like what we’ve got in store for you!

Find out what’s happening and where to go! First and foremost, the WRLA app gives you the entire WRLA Showcase at your fingertips. Built-in notifications and agendas mean that you can look up the entire slate of programming happening at the showcase to make sure you get to see everything you’re interested in. Want to know when a specific, free workshop is happening at the WRLA booth? It’s in the app. Need to check what time lunch starts and where to go? Boom. Right there. While you’re attending the show, you’re also, naturally, going to want to know who’s exhibiting and how to find them. The WRLA app features a comprehensive exhibitor list, along with their booth numbers.

Starting in February, the WRLA app is going to be more useful to your business than ever before—we’ll be sending out an update that will add the full WRLA membership directory to the app! You’ll have the full functionality of the online WRLA membership directory at your fingertips. In addition, we’re making it easier than ever to participate in WRLA events and courses. When there’s a new program, event, or class offered, those with the app in their pocket will be the first to know! You’ll also be able to register right from the app! That’s what we call convenient!

And even more! We’re looking forward to having the mobile app become a big part of our communications and community efforts going forward into 2024. If there’s a feature that would make the experience better for you and your business, we want to know about it. Elements we’re considering include job listings and a media player for the latest WRLA videos and podcasts. What we offer next will greatly depend on what you want to see—so let us know at marketing@wrla.org.

On your marks … get set … App! Including WRLA Academy programming, and our all-new free Professional Development Power Sessions, this year’s Showcase gets going on Wednesday, January 17, so be sure to get the app downloaded (or updated) and be the first to hear about all the great things happening at the show.

Scan the codes below to get started.

Apple Store

Google Play YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023

PHOTO:

GOLD

YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023

PHOTO:

GOLD

YARDSTICK MAGAZINE

Winter 2023