LBM Advantage points to strong event

LBM Advantage's “Annual Buying Show” generated strong buying during the three-day event held at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, Florida.

The show concluded Feb. 23, but not before baseball icon and inspiration Jim Abbott, an athlete who rose to fame overcoming his disability—he was born without a right hand—to become a major league pitcher provided a rousing keynote inspiration.

The theme of the LBM Advantage show was "Adapting to New Beginnings." And according to CEO Stephen Sallah, the mission was accomplished.

“Our 2022 Annual Buying Show was one for the memory books," he said. "After two years of virtual events, we were not only together in person, but had record attendance. The energy level and camaraderie between our members, vendors and staff was at an all-time high and our keynote speaker, retired major league pitcher, Jim Abbott, left us inspired to overcome obstacles and pursue our dreams. We’re already looking forward to our 2023 event.”

During the three-day event, Vendor of the Year awards were presented to the following companies:

• Commodities: US Gypsum
• Specialties: National Nail
• Millwork: Velux
• Kitchen & Bath: The Stock Market

LBM Advantage is a member-owned forest products and building materials cooperative comprised of the industry’s premier independent LBM retailers. Its mission is to provide a competitive advantage for its members by leveraging their collective power. Advantage operates four locations in New Windsor, N.Y., Grand Rapids, Mich., Smithfield, N.C., and Monroe, La., offering national programs with regional expertise.