In this day and age membership to an industry association is more important than ever...especially when you are in the kitchen cabinet industry. The economy is hard to predict, business is complex on all fronts, and consumers are creating this environment as they are becoming more informed, have so many choices, and as a result are more demanding. Gone are the days of doing it my way, as Sinatra so famously sang!
Now it is the customers’ way, even if you do not want to admit it and if you choose not to give in, you will find yourself having a hard time getting out of bed in the morning as they, the customer, will collectively wear you out, unless you are a glutton for punishment or have a world class support group behind you.
I am not too far off the truth, and don’t get me wrong, customers pay our bills, but finding the balance of manufacturing it our way to make a profit and giving the customer what they want is definitely a challenge.
Across this great country of ours are serious, very resilient cabinet manufacturers, large, small and medium-sized in between. They have good intentions, provide good work, have vision and are masterful at their woodworking businesses. But whom can they relate to? Who can they talk to and work with externally? And where can they go for help with growth, development and knowhow when a problem arises and when advice is required for a much-needed breakthrough.
Why not another cabinet shop?
Why not an association where you can gather and talk about the serious issues with serious people?
The Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association (CKCA) would like to be that support group. A structured, well-organized and effective association with connections across the country on all levels: corporate, governmental, consumer related, supply chain and academic.
With a demanding economic climate comes discipline and tough choices with sound decisions that have to be made for a brighter future. Let the CKCA help you and lead the way to your success by example as we are making exciting changes to provide our members with responsive and professional support, valuable technical information and networking opportunities.
As of June 1st, the CKCA will officially have transitioned to a new association manager: The Willow Group – an experienced national association management firm. Come be a part of an exciting association and make your membership be a part of your success!
More information on CKCA membership and CKCA events is available on the CKCA website at www.ckca.ca
Richard Kaufmann is Vice-President of the Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association. He is also Vice President & General Manager of Pacific Rim Cabinets, located in Delta, British Columbia.
