Caleb Krugman, Author at Lumbermen's Inc. Building Materials Distributor & Manufacturer

Thai Xiong – Commercial Vehicle Driver

November 18th, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

Thai Xiong is part of a new group of Employee Owners in Minnesota, joining the company in April of 2024.

As Lumbermen’s expanded Building Materials operations into Minnesota, we needed top-notch drivers to deliver materials to our new customers, and were fortunate to have Thai become one of our first hires for the new location! “I enjoy driving and it brings me joy to work with a great team,” said Thai. “My job is to ensure the truck is in safe operation, I conduct inspections before my route and at the end of each day.”

In addition to delivering products to our customers, Thai enjoys playing golf, exercise, and spending time with his family and friends. He is also very proud of his heritage. “I am Hmong American, I came to the USA as a refugee from Thailand. Because of the opportunities available to me, I became the first in my family to graduate with a four year degree. My father’s decision to come to America was one of the best decisions he made for me and my family. I am blessed and am proud to be an American citizen.”

“It is a blessing to start my driving career with Lumbermen’s and help launch the Minnesota division. I’m excited to be a part of something new.”

Jack Sims – Custom Door Builder, Door Division

Jack recently shared that he plans to retire in 2026. While it will be difficult to imagine the shop without his steady leadership, he has certainly earned the opportunity after a lifetime of hard work. The good news is that he plans to return part-time to keep his skills sharp—and will even be working alongside his wife, who is also part of the Door Division.

Jayme Stauffenecker – Outside Sales Representative

An addition to our Minnesota-based team less than a year ago, Jayme is already making her mark in the building materials industry.

Celebrating a Legacy: Henry Bouma Retires After 50 Years with Lumbermen’s Inc.

After an extraordinary 50-year career at Lumbermen’s Inc., Henry Bouma is stepping into retirement—leaving behind a legacy defined by dedication, adaptability, and unwavering customer focus.

Ryan Hagan – Sales Consultant, Door Division

Ryan Hagan has grown significantly since joining Lumbermen’s, starting in the Door Division Service Department, and now moving to an Outside Sales role. His experience with the inner workings of operations has prepared him to be a problem-solver in the field.

Brandon Kitkowski – Sales Consultant, Building Materials

Brandon Kitkowski has seen his business card change in 2025, going from Field Sales Representative to now Outside Sales Representative. However, his commitment to service and our customers is his defining characteristic.

Cristina Wasel – Quality Management Supervisor, Door Division

Cristina Wasel leads our Door Division’s commitment to quality and getting things right. Her engineering expertise helps build tools and systems that work to prevent and solve issues on the production floor.

Lumbermen’s is excited to announce leadership growth within our Building Materials Division. Significant growth in sales, workforce, and expansion into new territories like Minnesota in 2024 has led us to make some changes to our leadership structure.

Lumbermen’s Inc Grows Building Materials Division Leadership Team

Terry Lynn – Facilities Manager

Terry Lynn joined Lumbermen’s in September of 2007, as a member of the Grand Rapids Building Materials division.

Steve Hanker – Customer Service – Grand Rapids Building Materials

Steve Hanker has been with Lumbermen’s since 1996, when he joined the company as a Customer Service Representative.

Donna Ritsema & John Rutkowski

On December 7, 2023 Lumbermen’s celebrated the careers of Donna Ritsema (43 years) and John Rutkowski (31 years). Employee Owners, vendor partners, dealer customers, friends and family all gathered to congratulate these two on the positive impacts they have made for the company.

Rethinking Relationship Building: Creating Unique Experiences Beyond the Golf Course

October 10th, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

When Katie Ostreko, VP of Sales and Marketing for Quality Edge, and I get together, our conversations cover a lot of ground—new products, marketing strategies, and our families. During a lunch outing this past summer, I casually asked if she played golf. “Noooo!!!” she replied, which made me smile and feel an even stronger connection. Why? Because I’m not much of a golfer either—at least, not a good one.

In our industry, golf can sometimes feel like a requirement. It’s not, of course, but there’s often a sense of missing out if you don’t play or aren’t invited to outings. While golf is great for building relationships and strengthening partnerships, if we don’t consider other types of events or bring different people into the mix, we could be missing opportunities.

When I mentioned that several of my female colleagues also don’t golf, Katie had a brilliant idea: “You know what we should do? Have a SPA DAY!” And just like that, the Ladies of Lumbermen’s Spa Day, hosted by QE, was born. I invited a group of women from our purchasing and customer service departments who work closely with QE, and their excitement was immediate: “Are you SERIOUS?” “This is the BEST IDEA EVER!”

A few weeks later, nine of us from Lumbermen’s and QE gathered at Benji’s Salon and Spa in Grand Rapids. We indulged in massages, facials, and pedicures while snacking on charcuterie, sipping champagne, and chatting about business, career paths, weddings, and life in general. It was a perfect mix of relaxation and connection, and we all left feeling pampered, appreciated, and closer.

When I mentioned that several of my female colleagues also don’t golf, Katie had a brilliant idea: “You know what we should do? Have a SPA DAY!” And just like that, the Ladies of Lumbermen’s Spa Day, hosted by QE, was born. I invited a group of women from our purchasing and customer service departments who work closely with QE, and their excitement was immediate: “Are you SERIOUS?” “This is the BEST IDEA EVER!”

A few weeks later, nine of us from Lumbermen’s and QE gathered at Benji’s Salon and Spa in Grand Rapids. We indulged in massages, facials, and pedicures while snacking on charcuterie, sipping champagne, and chatting about business, careers, weddings, and life in general. It was a perfect mix of relaxation and connection, and we all left feeling pampered, appreciated, and closer.

The point here isn’t to dismiss golf or any other traditional out-of-office activities but to encourage you to rethink how you spend your time with colleagues and clients.

Are you thinking creatively about your events? Traditional activities are easy to plan, but there’s something special about trying new experiences that foster deeper connections and create lasting memories. At Lumbermen’s, we’ve planned outings for customers like charter fishing, race car driving, skeet shooting and more. Unique events also set you apart from competitors.

Are the events you plan aligned with what your customers really want? It’s important that they genuinely enjoy their time with you, so why not ask them what they’d like to do? You might be surprised by their suggestions. When we planned the spa event for September, many commented on how perfect the timing was, given the back-to-school rush. I also heard some comments from the guys that they would like a day at the spa, too!

The point here isn’t to dismiss golf or any other traditional out-of-office activities but to encourage you to rethink how you spend your time with colleagues and clients.

Are you thinking creatively about your events? Traditional activities are easy to plan, but there’s something special about trying new experiences that foster deeper connections and create lasting memories. It also sets you apart from competitors.

Are the events you plan aligned with what your customers really want? It’s important that they genuinely enjoy their time with you, so why not ask them what they’d like to do? You might be surprised by their suggestions. When we planned the spa event for September, many commented on how perfect the timing was, given the back-to-school rush. I also heard some comments from the guys that they would like a day at the spa, too!

And lastly, are you including the behind-the-scenes people who contribute to your partnership’s success? Think about the people who help make your relationships thrive—it’s worth ensuring they feel valued, too.

While golf will always have a place in building relationships in the business world, it’s worth considering new experiences and inviting different key players. By thinking outside the box and creating unique, memorable events, you can foster deeper connections, show genuine appreciation, and differentiate yourself from competitors.

Written by Jill Carroll, Director of Marketing, Lumbermen’s

Are you including the behind-the-scenes people who contribute to your partnership’s success? Think about the people who help make your relationships thrive—it’s worth ensuring they feel valued, too.

While golf will always have a place in building relationships, it’s worth considering new experiences and inviting different key players. By thinking outside the box and creating unique, memorable events, you can foster deeper connections, show genuine appreciation, and differentiate yourself from competitors.

Written by Jill Carroll, Director of Marketing, Lumbermen’s

Additional Industry Articles

Managing Client Expectations in the Fall: A Guide for Residential Contractors

As temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, fall often becomes one of the busiest seasons for residential builders and contractors. Homeowners are eager to complete projects before winter weather arrives, and many want everything wrapped up before the holidays. While this seasonal rush can create valuable opportunities, it also brings challenges when it comes to managing client expectations.

Shaping the Future: Recruiting and Developing Emerging Leaders in the Building Materials Industry

We asked our young Employee Owners and interns what it will take to attract top talent and shape the future of building materials.

6 Benefits of Stock and Semi-Custom Cabinets vs. Fully Custom Cabinetry

Whether you’re a designer helping clients bring their vision to life or a homeowner thinking about your own renovation, stock and semi-custom cabinets offer a smart alternative to fully custom cabinetry—providing the look, functionality, and durability you want, often with less stress and at a more accessible price.

Don’t Let Customers Pass You By: Keep Your Google Business Profile Fresh

An estimated 92% of all online search traffic happens via Google, which is why it is so important to make sure that your business is easy to find with robust and correct information.

Why Do Entry Doors Leak—And What Can Be Done About It?

Few things are more frustrating for a homeowner—or for the Dealer or installer involved—than discovering that an entry door is leaking. It’s especially concerning during heavy rainstorms, which are common in the hot summer months.

Snap, Store, Share: A Simple Marketing Habit for Builders

For builders and contractors, the busy season often leaves little time for anything beyond the work at hand. But while your crews are pounding deck boards, raising frames, and wrapping up beautiful transformations, you’re also surrounded by a powerful marketing asset: your jobsite.

Managing Client Expectations in the Fall: A Guide for Residential Contractors

Shaping the Future: Recruiting and Developing Emerging Leaders in the Building Materials Industry

We asked our young Employee Owners and interns what it will take to attract top talent and shape the future of building materials.

6 Benefits of Stock and Semi-Custom Cabinets vs. Fully Custom Cabinetry

Don’t Let Customers Pass You By: Keep Your Google Business Profile Fresh

An estimated 92% of all online search traffic happens via Google, which is why it is so important to make sure that your business is easy to find with robust and correct information.

Why Do Entry Doors Leak—And What Can Be Done About It?

Snap, Store, Share: A Simple Marketing Habit for Builders

4 Strategies to Boost Storm Door Sales

September 16th, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

As the weather cools and we prepare for what’s predicted will be a particularly cold winter, now is a great time to promote your storm door offerings. In this article, we share actionable steps and valuable tools to help you elevate your sales game and drive sales!

1. Create an Impressionable Display

Your display isn’t just about showcasing products; it’s about creating an immersive experience for your customers. That’s why Larson is currently offering a “Display Refresh” promotion offering up to $400 in co-op funds for display support.

For more information, click here or connect with your Lumbermen’s Rep.

Create an Impressionable Display

For more information, click here or connect with your Lumbermen’s Rep.

2. Train your Team

Your staff are your greatest assets when it comes to selling. Equip them with the knowledge and tools they need to confidently engage with customers and address their questions. The Lumbermen’s Sales Reps recently went through extensive training with Larson and are eager to share their knowledge and resources. Consider incentivizing your staff with engaging contests or rewards to keep your team motivated!

Train your Team

3. Entice your Audience with a Special Discount

Larson had a fall special running through October 31. Dealers will receive 6% off the purchase of 25-50 stock doors and 10% off the purchase of 51 or more. Restrictions apply.

Please click here for complete details.

Entice your Audience with a Special Discount

Larson had a fall special funning through October 31. Dealers will receive 6% off the purchase of 25-50 stock doors and 10% off the purchase of 51 or more. Restrictions apply.

Please click here for complete details.

4. Create a Marketing Plan for Builders and Homeowners

With your space primed and your team empowered, it’s time to amplify your reach through targeted marketing efforts. For broader outreach, leverage a mix of digital and traditional marketing tactics—from social media campaigns to direct mail initiatives.

Create a Marketing Plan for Builders and Homeowners

Marketing tools available to you:

Flyers that can be customized with your logo and contact information. Click here for an example.
Social media graphics (upon request).
“6 Advantages of Storm Doors” article that you can share via email or on social media.

In search of more marketing assistance? Reach out to your Sales Rep or our marketing department for personalized assistance.

By implementing these proven strategies, you’ll not only enhance your storm door sales performance but also establish yourself as a trusted partner in outdoor living solutions. As always, let us know how we can help!

Marketing tools available to you:

Flyers that can be customized with your logo and contact information. Click here for an example.
Social media graphics (upon request).
“6 Advantages of Storm Doors” article that you can share via email or on social media.

In search of more marketing assistance? Reach out to your Sales Rep or our marketing department for personalized assistance.

Additional Industry Articles

Managing Client Expectations in the Fall: A Guide for Residential Contractors

Shaping the Future: Recruiting and Developing Emerging Leaders in the Building Materials Industry

We asked our young Employee Owners and interns what it will take to attract top talent and shape the future of building materials.

6 Benefits of Stock and Semi-Custom Cabinets vs. Fully Custom Cabinetry

Don’t Let Customers Pass You By: Keep Your Google Business Profile Fresh

An estimated 92% of all online search traffic happens via Google, which is why it is so important to make sure that your business is easy to find with robust and correct information.

Why Do Entry Doors Leak—And What Can Be Done About It?

Snap, Store, Share: A Simple Marketing Habit for Builders

Managing Client Expectations in the Fall: A Guide for Residential Contractors

Shaping the Future: Recruiting and Developing Emerging Leaders in the Building Materials Industry

We asked our young Employee Owners and interns what it will take to attract top talent and shape the future of building materials.

6 Benefits of Stock and Semi-Custom Cabinets vs. Fully Custom Cabinetry

Don’t Let Customers Pass You By: Keep Your Google Business Profile Fresh

An estimated 92% of all online search traffic happens via Google, which is why it is so important to make sure that your business is easy to find with robust and correct information.

Why Do Entry Doors Leak—And What Can Be Done About It?

Snap, Store, Share: A Simple Marketing Habit for Builders

Culture, Challenges, and Opportunities: A Q&A with Jeff Malloch, VP of Building Materials

Eight months into his new role, Lumbermen’s VP of Building Materials Jeff Malloch discusses the company, market trends, and dealer opportunities.

Spring for Storm Doors—2 Great Options from Larson & Lumbermen’s

After a long, dark winter, Midwest homeowners are eager for fresh air and sunlight, making spring the perfect time to promote storm doors to your customers.Lumbermen’s proudly offers a comprehensive inventory of Larson Storm Doors, ensuring we are your go-to source for their products.

3 Strategies to Grow Your Decking Business

Growing your decking business requires more than just quality craftsmanship—it takes strategic planning and effective customer engagement. Whether you’re looking to attract new clients, improve your sales approach, or enhance your brand’s visibility, having the right tools and knowledge at your disposal is essential. Here we explore three key strategies to help you expand your reach and increase your success.

4 Reasons Dealers Should Use Email Marketing to Connect with Customers

When meeting with Dealers to talk about marketing, I usually ask if they are using email marketing. Often, they aren’t—despite having a decent list of names and email addresses. The truth is, email marketing is a powerful tool for strengthening relationships with customers.

4 Steps to Elevating Your Decking Sales

Decking season is upon us and if the forecasts are accurate, the opportunities will be immense. In this article, we’ll share actionable steps and valuable insights to help you elevate your sales game and drive success in 2025.

Q&A with Shawn Klysen, Senior Sales Advisor, Minnesota Door Division

As part of Lumbermen’s exciting expansion of Door Manufacturing and Distribution operations in Minnesota, we were thrilled to welcome Shawn Klysen to our team as Senior Sales Advisor in December.

In this Q&A, Shawn shares his insights on the industry, his plans for driving success in Minnesota, and what excites him most about joining the Lumbermen’s family.

Preventing Frost and Condensation: Tips for Homeowners with Therma-Tru Entry Doors

When temperatures drop to zero degrees or below, it’s common for door dealers to receive calls from homeowners concerned about condensation and frost forming on their windows and doors. Aluminum components like ADA sills and astragals are more likely to form frost during these conditions due to the transference of exterior cold, mixed with warm moist air in the home.

4 Simple Tips to Elevate Your Marketing

We asked the Lumbermen’s Marketing team members to each share one tip Dealers can consider when amping up their marketing efforts this fall.

Lumbermen’s and Therma-Tru have recently initiated a dynamic social media campaign with the goal of enhancing customer engagement and increasing sales leads for dealers. This approach uses digital marketing strategies to emphasize the distinctive qualities and benefits of their products.

Lumbermen’s & Therma-Tru Launch Social Media Campaign Aimed to Drive Leads to Dealer

Navigating Your Business in Uncertain Times

While the ride in the building materials industry has been pretty incredible the past couple of years, the truth is that a potential slowdown is looming. We can hope for changes addressing inflation and high interest rates, but in the meantime the focus should be on what you can control. Choose to take this time to finally take a breath and reevaluate your business and strategy.

Unlocking Innovation: Door Industry Highlights from the International Builders Show 2024

Every year, Las Vegas welcomes members of the building industry to the International Builders Show, and Lumbermen’s was there, along with thousands of other folks from around the world! There is so much to see and do, it is hard to take it all in, so here are some highlights from our friends in the Door industry and what they are excited about in 2024.

6 Advantages of Storm Doors

Storm doors are often an overlooked feature in many homes, yet they offer a wide range of benefits that can enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your living space. Here we explore the many advantages of storm doors, from energy efficiency and security to natural light and improving indoor comfort.

Lumbermen’s Inc Grows Building Materials Division Leadership Team

August 22nd, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

Lumbermen’s is excited to announce leadership growth within our Building Materials Division. Significant growth in sales, workforce, and expansion into new territories like Minnesota in 2024 has led us to make some changes to our leadership structure. Effective September 30, 2024, Shawn Montague will be promoted to Senior Vice President of Building Materials. In this role, Shawn will focus on strategic growth initiatives and oversee the division on a broader scale.

Steve Petersen, CEO and President, had this to say about the creation of this new role: “If you know Shawn, you’re aware of his exceptional talent in customer experience and his strong leadership and strategic abilities. We’re eager to see how his new role will further enhance our success and benefit our customers!”

Additionally, we are pleased to announce that Jeff Malloch will be joining the company as the new Vice President of Building Materials. Jeff comes to Lumbermen’s from a leadership position with West Ottawa School District based in Holland, MI, where he was responsible for overseeing an organization of over 800 employees. Jeff will initially spend his time working closely with Shawn to understand the nuances surrounding our customers, vendors, and employee owners. His primary focus will be to support the Regional Sales Managers and ensure that the Lumbermen’s culture and level of service not only remain strong but continue to grow.

“We invite our partners throughout the industry to join me in congratulating Shawn on his promotion and welcoming Jeff and his family to Lumbermen’s,” added Petersen. “We are fortunate to have outstanding leaders across our business segments who are dedicated to our valued customers.”

Additional Employee Owner Posts

Jack Sims – Custom Door Builder, Door Division

Jayme Stauffenecker – Outside Sales Representative

An addition to our Minnesota-based team less than a year ago, Jayme is already making her mark in the building materials industry.

Celebrating a Legacy: Henry Bouma Retires After 50 Years with Lumbermen’s Inc.

After an extraordinary 50-year career at Lumbermen’s Inc., Henry Bouma is stepping into retirement—leaving behind a legacy defined by dedication, adaptability, and unwavering customer focus.

Ryan Hagan – Sales Consultant, Door Division

Brandon Kitkowski – Sales Consultant, Building Materials

Cristina Wasel – Quality Management Supervisor, Door Division

Terry Lynn – Facilities Manager

Terry Lynn joined Lumbermen’s in September of 2007, as a member of the Grand Rapids Building Materials division.

Steve Hanker – Customer Service – Grand Rapids Building Materials

Steve Hanker has been with Lumbermen’s since 1996, when he joined the company as a Customer Service Representative.

Donna Ritsema & John Rutkowski

4 Simple Tips to Elevate Your Marketing

August 9th, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

As the summer busy season starts to wind down, now is a great time to think about the things you wish you had more time for, like marketing! It can feel daunting at first but with a little “off season” preparation and planning, your brand is sure to gain more recognition and loyal customers.

We asked the Lumbermen’s Marketing team members to each share one tip Dealers can consider when amping up their marketing efforts this fall. Looking for more guidance? Don’t forget that Lumbermen’s offers free marketing consultation and services. Click here for more info.

Social Media – Celebrate Your Employees

When it comes to social media, a big question is “How do I engage with my audience?” People who follow your Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn are more likely to give a Like or leave a comment if they find a connection to the content that you choose to post.

We’ve found that posts celebrating our Employee Owners receive high rates of engagement. Our audience connects to people being recognized for their accomplishments, photos of them working hard in the field, or volunteering in their community. When posting content, try to include multiple photos or a video within the post. Social media algorithms prefer content that will keep audiences engaged for longer periods of time, and therefore make your posts more visible. Our Employee Owners also love seeing their efforts spotlighted on our social platforms, so it is a win across the board!

-Ryan Terpstra, Media Manager

celebrate employees (1740 x 977 px) (1740 x 1740 px)

Design – Fonts Matter

A font can convey your brand’s story and messaging. Your font does not have to be boring or basic to communicate well with your audience. Fonts like Futura, Proxima Nova or Century Gothic provide more of a modern, sleek look while being highly legible. These fonts also have a variety of weight options which allows you to go from light to bold easily and provide interest to readers.

Consistency in using the same general typeface is important, whether you are creating a flyer, letterhead, or billboard. Being intentional about this will give your projects and platforms a cleaner look that is easier to digest and allow your brand to be more recognizable.

-Sam Ballast, Lead Designer

Design – Fonts Matter

-Sam Ballast, Lead Designer

Google Business Profiles – Is Yours Up to Date?

A lot of pre-purchase consideration is conducted via Google, where an estimated 92% of all online search traffic happens. That’s why it is so important to make sure that your Google Business Profile is up to date with accurate information including your hours, phone number, website, and physical address. It can also be beneficial to ask satisfied customers to submit Google Reviews for your business. With a higher Google Business rating, you will be more likely to show up in search results and reach more customers.

-Caleb Krugman, Digital Marketing Specialist

Marketing Planning – Helpful Tools to Keep You on Track

There are several tech tools and platforms that can help you stay organized. Most aren’t costly and can save you a bunch of time.

Social Media – Platforms like Buffer, Sprout Social and Hootsuite are designed to manage several accounts, and allow you to schedule posts in advance, as well as analyze your results and engagement.

Project Management – If you find your campaigns have several steps and people involved, or you want to better document your projects and tasks, platforms like Monday.com, Google Workspace and Basecamp are all good options.

Content Calendars – Mapping out what to promote and when will not only make you more prepared, you’re also more likely to capture your audience’s attention at the right times. For example, summer is deck season, but your customers will start thinking about it in early spring. By using a Content Calendar template, you can plan and organize your content in advance. This way, you can track the progress of your content creation, assign tasks and measure performance. There are several online, or you can even simply use software like Excel.

-Jill Carroll, Director of Marketing

Marketing Planning – Helpful Tools to Keep You on Track

There are several tech tools and platforms that can help you stay organized. Most aren’t costly and can save you a bunch of time.

-Jill Carroll, Director of Marketing

These practical tips, combined with the free marketing consultation and services offered by Lumbermen’s, can set you on the path to marketing success and long-term growth. Happy Marketing!

Review Our Marketing Services

Marketing Support

Managing Client Expectations in the Fall: A Guide for Residential Contractors

Shaping the Future: Recruiting and Developing Emerging Leaders in the Building Materials Industry

We asked our young Employee Owners and interns what it will take to attract top talent and shape the future of building materials.

6 Benefits of Stock and Semi-Custom Cabinets vs. Fully Custom Cabinetry

Don’t Let Customers Pass You By: Keep Your Google Business Profile Fresh

An estimated 92% of all online search traffic happens via Google, which is why it is so important to make sure that your business is easy to find with robust and correct information.

Why Do Entry Doors Leak—And What Can Be Done About It?

Snap, Store, Share: A Simple Marketing Habit for Builders

Piece By Piece Podcast, Episode 3: Developing and Leading a Sales Team

July 10th, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

Lumbermen’s is proud to present Episode 3 of our Piece By Piece business podcast.

“I really believe that there is a difference between motivation and discipline,” shares Shawn Montague, Vice President of Building Materials. “So finding disciplined people who are intrinsically motivated…that’s one of the first things that we look for.”

Join us for a conversation about how Lumbermen’s approaches this topic and gain insights to help enhance strategies and development of your own sales team in the building materials industry and beyond.

Subscribe to us on YouTube to catch new episodes.

Managing Client Expectations in the Fall: A Guide for Residential Contractors

Shaping the Future: Recruiting and Developing Emerging Leaders in the Building Materials Industry

We asked our young Employee Owners and interns what it will take to attract top talent and shape the future of building materials.

6 Benefits of Stock and Semi-Custom Cabinets vs. Fully Custom Cabinetry

Don’t Let Customers Pass You By: Keep Your Google Business Profile Fresh

An estimated 92% of all online search traffic happens via Google, which is why it is so important to make sure that your business is easy to find with robust and correct information.

Why Do Entry Doors Leak—And What Can Be Done About It?

Snap, Store, Share: A Simple Marketing Habit for Builders

Culture, Challenges, and Opportunities: A Q&A with Jeff Malloch, VP of Building Materials

Eight months into his new role, Lumbermen’s VP of Building Materials Jeff Malloch discusses the company, market trends, and dealer opportunities.

Spring for Storm Doors—2 Great Options from Larson & Lumbermen’s

3 Strategies to Grow Your Decking Business

4 Reasons Dealers Should Use Email Marketing to Connect with Customers

Terry Lynn – Facilities Manager

July 2nd, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

Terry Lynn joined Lumbermen’s in September of 2007, as a member of the Grand Rapids Building Materials division.

As Lumbermen’s continues to grow our service across Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Northern Kentucky, and Minnesota, we add staff, and space! Terry has overseen the opening of new service locations, and ensures that the Lumbermen’s buildings and grounds remain maintained and any maintenance repairs are done in a timely and cost effective manner.

“I really enjoy getting out to the outlying divisions and being able to meet their specific needs for the facilities, and also having the opportunity to meet new Employee Owners,” said Terry.

“I believe the facilities team all have one goal, and that is to make sure our facilities are in great shape, so when our customers visit, their overall experience here at Lumbermen’s is a positive one.”

Jack Sims – Custom Door Builder, Door Division

Jayme Stauffenecker – Outside Sales Representative

An addition to our Minnesota-based team less than a year ago, Jayme is already making her mark in the building materials industry.

Celebrating a Legacy: Henry Bouma Retires After 50 Years with Lumbermen’s Inc.

After an extraordinary 50-year career at Lumbermen’s Inc., Henry Bouma is stepping into retirement—leaving behind a legacy defined by dedication, adaptability, and unwavering customer focus.

Ryan Hagan – Sales Consultant, Door Division

Brandon Kitkowski – Sales Consultant, Building Materials

Cristina Wasel – Quality Management Supervisor, Door Division

Steve Hanker – Customer Service – Grand Rapids Building Materials

Steve Hanker has been with Lumbermen’s since 1996, when he joined the company as a Customer Service Representative.

Donna Ritsema & John Rutkowski

Lumbermen’s & Therma-Tru Launch Social Media Campaign Aimed to Drive Leads to Dealer

June 3rd, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

Lumbermen’s and Therma-Tru have recently initiated a dynamic social media campaign with the goal of enhancing customer engagement and increasing sales leads for dealers. This approach uses digital marketing strategies to emphasize the distinctive qualities and benefits of their products. The campaign cleverly combines engaging content with targeted advertising to improve dealer visibility and stimulate customer interactions. Additionally, it encourages prospective buyers to easily connect with local dealers, streamlining the transition from online exploration to in-person transactions.

Managing Client Expectations in the Fall: A Guide for Residential Contractors

Shaping the Future: Recruiting and Developing Emerging Leaders in the Building Materials Industry

We asked our young Employee Owners and interns what it will take to attract top talent and shape the future of building materials.

6 Benefits of Stock and Semi-Custom Cabinets vs. Fully Custom Cabinetry

Don’t Let Customers Pass You By: Keep Your Google Business Profile Fresh

An estimated 92% of all online search traffic happens via Google, which is why it is so important to make sure that your business is easy to find with robust and correct information.

Why Do Entry Doors Leak—And What Can Be Done About It?

Snap, Store, Share: A Simple Marketing Habit for Builders

Enhancing Your Showroom with Inspirational Product Displays

June 3rd, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

SHOW, don’t just Tell. This is a business slogan that resonates throughout our industry when it comes to selling building materials. Customers having the ability to handle a roof shingle, see the exact shade of brown on a deck board, or test the sturdiness of a piece of siding can make all the difference when it comes to their purchasing decision.

At Lumbermen’s, we recognize the importance of a good product display, and we partner with our dealers to showcase our products to their customers in creative and informative ways within their showroom space.

Looking for inspiration? Check out some of the displays that we’ve created:

AZEK & TimberTech

Great American Spaces

Evolve Stone

Outdoor Living

AZEK & TimberTech Decking and Railing

Great American Spaces

Evolve Stone

Outdoor Living

Interested in a display for your showroom? Connect with your Lumbermen’s sales rep and let’s work together!

Managing Client Expectations in the Fall: A Guide for Residential Contractors

Shaping the Future: Recruiting and Developing Emerging Leaders in the Building Materials Industry

We asked our young Employee Owners and interns what it will take to attract top talent and shape the future of building materials.

6 Benefits of Stock and Semi-Custom Cabinets vs. Fully Custom Cabinetry

Don’t Let Customers Pass You By: Keep Your Google Business Profile Fresh

An estimated 92% of all online search traffic happens via Google, which is why it is so important to make sure that your business is easy to find with robust and correct information.

Why Do Entry Doors Leak—And What Can Be Done About It?

Snap, Store, Share: A Simple Marketing Habit for Builders

Steve Hanker – Customer Service – Grand Rapids Building Materials

May 7th, 2024 by Caleb Krugman

Steve Hanker has been with Lumbermen’s since 1996, when he joined the company as a Customer Service Representative.

Steve spoke about his duties at Lumbermen’s: “Customer service reps play a key role with order accuracy and support with the sale. We can save the customer time, with quick answers and product knowledge. It’s enjoyable to come in the office and work with a great sales team. I know that the team will not hesitate to assist me. We do this all for the customer experience here at Lumbermen’s, and that is a great feeling at the end of the day.”

In 2023, Lumbermen’s began a volunteer initiative called Building Community with Heart, in which the company provides a paid day for employee owners to donate their time to a community initiative that they wish to support. Steve has taken a leadership role within the program and had this to say, “Lumbermen’s has always prioritized helping individuals and giving back to people in need. The Building Community with Heart program is expanding this commitment even further. Corporate community involvement has been around for a while, but Lumbermen’s has created a high impact employee volunteer program. This initiative is important, as it will bring positive results. Building Community with Heart has become part of our company mission, and says something about the company for future employees. It also brings current employees together, and strengthens relationships. It’s easy to get involved, and it is paid volunteer time.”

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