NLBMDA kicks off annual conference

Las Vegas The National Lumber and Building Materials Association (NLBMDA) kicked off its Industry Summit yesterday by deciding to turn its day-to-day operations over to a trade association management company. In a unanimous decision, the NLBMDA board voted on Oct. 4 to sign a contract with SmithBucklin, which will handle staffing, accounting, educational programs, government relations, and other functions.

The NLBMDA will close its office in Washington D.C. and move into SmithBucklin’s office, also inside the Beltway, during a 60-day transition period. By contracting with an outside firm, the trade association will save approximately $170,760 a year, according to an analysis by SmithBucklin.

Other issues discussed during the board meeting were state and federal legislation that deal with frivolous lawsuits, illegal logging, OSHA regulations and organized scams against retailers.

The three-day conference, held at the J.W. Marriott, continues today with sessions on strategic visioning and market differentiation. Other events include a silent auction, a golf tournament and networking receptions.