A Fork in the Road Ed Serrano “My only regret is that I didn’t do it sooner.” (— You, probably) It’s a common refrain from recent automation adopters, and you might just find yourself saying it one day. So, what makes that initial step feel like such a big leap and not just another step... Read More April 2025 Issue #17309 Page 54
Tariff Pressures Squeeze Wood Building Component Manufacturers, Financial Solutions Sought Carl Villella Wood building component manufacturers are facing increasing financial pressures as tariffs and supply chain disruptions drive up the cost of essential materials and equipment. Industry insiders report rising concerns over the impact on production costs and project timelines. The Key... Read More April 2025 Issue #17309 Page 85
Component Industry’s Latest Nightmare: Tariffs Valerie Hansen Today, 93% of America’s new homes are built of wood-frame construction. If fully enacted, the implemented and pending tariffs will reduce lumber supply and trigger an increase in lumber price, resulting in a one–two punch for the wood-frame construction industry. As we once again... Read More April 2025 Issue #17309 Page 100
Navigating the Workforce Shortage: How Technology and Equipment Financing Can Help Carl Villella The year 2025 sees businesses across industries grappling with a persistent workforce shortage. Finding and retaining qualified employees is a major challenge, impacting productivity and growth. However, technology offers a powerful solution, and equipment financing can make it more accessible... Read More March 2025 Issue #17308 Page 83
Deals Report 2024: Tracking the Openings, Closings, and Acquisitions Craig Webb One deal did all the difference in construction supply’s M&A world in 2024. The Home Depot’s purchase of SRS Distribution’s 769 locations turned last year into the most active year for LBM facilities acquired since at least 2018. But when you exclude that buy, 2024 turns... Read More March 2025 Issue #17308 Page 140
Roof Truss Industry Outlook: Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities Carl Villella The roof truss industry faces a complex landscape in the coming year. Challenges include supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, inflation, and economic uncertainty. However, opportunities abound. Technological advancements like automation and software are driving efficiency.... Read More February 2025 Issue #17307 Page 83
Starting 2025 with Reserved Optimism Lesko Financial Services Team We’re starting 2025 with reserved optimism. Investors, the markets, and the world at large are still reviewing, digesting, and anticipating the implications of the results of last year’s U.S. Presidential and Congressional elections. One year ago, analysts and economists still... Read More February 2025 Issue #17307 Page 122
Artificial Intelligence in the Equipment Finance Industry Carl Villella Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been getting a lot of attention lately. While many of us are still trying to wrap our hands around its many pros and cons, we would like to let you know how it’s affecting our business specifically. Improving Customer Service—The AI chatbots can... Read More January 2025 Issue #17306 Page 79
Impact and Market Drivers for 2025 and Beyond Steph Karlstad Welcome to 2025! This year isn’t just another page on the calendar — it’s a pivotal season for growth and strategic foresight. Are you prepared for the economic shifts, interest rate impacts, and key market drivers that could shape your business strategy? When you’re... Read More January 2025 Issue #17306 Page 86
Maximize Your Tax Savings with Section 179 Carl Villella Don’t miss out on a significant tax break! The Section 179 deduction allows businesses to expense the cost of qualifying equipment purchases in the year of purchase, rather than depreciating it over time. How It Works What Qualifies? A wide range of equipment can be eligible for... Read More December 2024 Issue #16305 Page 79