Sophisticated support for sophisticated times
Things are getting more complicated in the building sphere. And according to Do it Best Corp. VP Gary Nackers, that’s a good thing for Do it Best’s pro-oriented dealers.
Building codes that respond to earthquakes in the West and hurricanes in the East appear to be spreading across the country, and energy efficiency is being regulated and re-regulated everywhere. To Nackers, who took over last year as Do it Best’s VP LBM, change means opportunity.
“Because of energy efficiency and structural integrity becoming more important, we’re going to see more development of a lot more sophisticated building products,” he said. “And that’s going to create a big opportunity for our members because as they become experts in more sophisticated building products, there’s more opportunities for higher-margin items. Plus it gives them the ability to become the experts in their markets.”
As a 30-year veteran in the industry, Nackers has no shortage of thoughts on opportunity and commitment in the LBM space:
• On showrooms: “Some of the innovations we’ve seen recently involve remodeled showrooms that create a real inviting environment. Easy and accessible and a more female-friendly shopping experience, it’s an alternative to walking through the racks. That’s the kind of thing you’re going to see more and more often.”
• On stores embracing LBM: “It’s a different business serving the pro contractor, and one that we want to make sure they’re prepared to get into. There’s delivery trucks, estimating and all of those things. Certainly they can do it, but it’s something they really consider in consultation with a territory manager. We have the market research and analysis to help determine if they have an opportunity to enter the market in that way.”
• On LBM’s role at Do it Best: “It was a decision we made as a company years ago. Where others have backed away from LBM, we feel it’s very important to offer members a total solution. That’s what’s unique about Do it Best, and it’s what our members need.”