The Tightening of Supply
It has been on the radar for a while, and now it’s time to say it again. Everything is getting tighter. What I mean by that is there’s not many areas in the supply chain that are chock full of inventory.
On my recent podcast (click here to view or here to listen only) I lead off by talking about this issue specifically on the glass side and the various issues that are causing some pain. Check that out, and then keep in mind what I constantly preach here; communication is so crucial. Make sure you are working closely with your supply chain and communicating downstream too. It will make a difference in the long run. In the meantime, I still think we are better off than the folks in other building product trades, so at least that is a small positive.
Elsewhere…
BEC Presents Launches
On March 22, and lasting only until April 9, the new BEC Presents series is being released. Five episodes that are perfectly timed to either be binged all at once, or watched over the few weeks. For me, I am excited to see the State of the Industry one; three unbelievable industry titans on there with Oliver Stepe of YKK, Tim Kelley of Tristar and Troy Johnson of Harmon. That will be awesome.
The other episodes are no slouches either. I worked on the legal one with Brian Carroll and his advice and insight into our world post-COVID is strong. The Real Estate piece will be fascinating because that is an area that all of us need to learn more on. The “Code Breaker” episode where the best consultants in the land crack a tough code case? Yeah, sign me up there. And last but not least, the special feature recapping the Tech Tables is a must-see resource. Check them all out from March 22 to April 9! And kudos to the team at NGA who worked crazy hard to pull off something new and different for this and especially to video editing wizard Melissa Fischer for making it look incredible, including me being the fastest I have ever been! (When you watch the legal one, you’ll see what I mean!)
Goldray Mosaic Wall
Sat in on a great presentation this past week from the folks at Goldray. It was for the Mosiac Wall System, and while I had gotten a good low-down on it from Cathie Saroka on my second podcast, this was a much deeper dive. Really interesting innovation that makes our industry look great. Fantastic job by Laura Little on the presentation; she has an energy that just bursts through the screen, and big-time props to Lisa Maragh, Goldray’s Engagement Specialist who set up the most inviting session, from the initial reach out, through all the communication. It was really different and well done.
Friese Donation to Providence Tarzana Foundation
Loved seeing this news about Don Friese. Mr. Friese, who has done so much for our industry (and continues to do so with his support of things like MyGlassClass) along with his wife Andrea Friese, donated a $50 million gift to Providence Tarzana Foundation, a transformational donation that will support the expansion and renovation of Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center. Absolutely awesome move from a class person and family.
Architectural Billings Index
The next Architectural Billings Index is released this week and I am going to go out on a limb and predict it will be up, but still not over the break-even point of 50. I’m thinking in the 46/47 range. Basically, at this point an upward trend with the number is all I want, and I think the metrics are there to support but we will see.
University of Michigan Hospital Build
Last this week; this is the sort of hopeful news I think we all like to see right now. University of Michigan back at it with a massive hospital build. Love to see it. Given both my kids were born at U of M and just this week my nephew was accepted into a medical residency there. I’d say I’m loving everything about that school. Go Blue!
