July 20 25 • Volume 42, N° 3
Leadership Conference 2025
Leading Through Change
INSIDE
Meet our Board of Directors 41290029
ABSDA Building Supply News
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Working for our members everyday. So you can focus on what matters most — your business. “We have had seven major expansions since joining Sexton Group in 2010. We couldn’t have done that without the tight-knit team of professionals at Sexton Group pointing us in the right direction. I’m often asked at conferences and meetings if I feel the pricing is competitive. I say “YES.” You don’t expand seven times in 10 years without competitive pricing programs. That’s why I am a Sexton member.” Albert Pike, Pike’s Building Centre
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July 20 25 • Volume 42, N° 3
The ABSDA Building Supply News is the official magazine of the Atlantic Building Supply Dealers Association and is published in February, May, July and September. The Atlantic Building Supply News is distributed to all ABSDA Dealer and Associate Members. The ABSDA office is located at: 70 Englehart Street, Dieppe, NB, E1A 8H3 Phone: (506) 858-0700 Email: absda@nb.aibn.com
ABSDA Serving the Industry for 70 years It will come as no surprise ABSDA currently has close to 600 active Member Retail Building Supply and Associate Supplier Members. ABSDA is the collective voice and liaison for the independent Building Supply and Home Improvement Industry.
ABSDA Executive 2025-2026
Chair Jay Milton Gillfor Distribution Dartmouth, NS (902) 434-8200
Past Chair Tanya Hanson Rocca Roblynn Home Hardware Building Centre Oromocto, NB (506) 446-6824
Vice Chair Duane MacDonald Callbecks Home Hardware Building Centre Summerside, PEI (902) 436-1100
President Denis Melanson ABSDA Dieppe, NB (506) 858-0700
Since 1955 this Association has focused on industry specific needs to our Members.
features 2025 Leadership Conference
Meet the Board of Directors
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in this issue 4 Chair’s Message
12 Meet the Speakers
6 President’s Message
18 Industry News
8 HR Insights
19 ABSDA APP
10 2025 Leadership Conference
ABSDA Dealer Directors 2025– 2026
Dawn McKay TNT Insulation & Building Supplies Keswick Ridge, NB (506) 363-5747
Nick Thebeau Targetts Castle Window & Door Centre Fredericton, NB (506) 444-8777
Deborah Brinson Gander Bay Building Supplies Victoria Cove, NL (709) 676-2992
Stephen Rector Island Home Hardware Grand Manan, NB (506) 662-8308
Tim Sabean Wilson’s Hardware Limited Digby, NS (902) 245-4731
ABSDA Associate Directors 2025-2026
Jeff Peddigrew Marwood Fredericton, NB (506) 478-2130
Andrew Jessome Metrie Atlantic Canada Dartmouth, NS (902) 471-7391
Dominic LeBlanc Alexandria Moulding Alexandria, ON (506) 380-4396
Kyle Crook Kohltech Debert, NS (902) 222-2395
ABSDA Building Supply News
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Building on 70 Years of Success —And Looking Ahead It is a true honour to serve as Chair of the Atlantic Building Supply Dealers Association’s Board of Directors for the 2025–2026 year. As we celebrate ABSDA’s remarkable 70th anniversary, I feel both humbled by the legacy of those who came before us and inspired by the opportunities ahead.
Jay Milton Chair of the Board
This anniversary year has given us a chance to reflect on just how far we’ve come. Since 1955, ABSDA has grown from a small group of dedicated dealers into a robust, industry-wide network that supports close to 600 members across Atlantic Canada. Our success has always been rooted in connection—dealers, suppliers, and service providers working together to move our industry forward. That spirit of collaboration remains just as strong today. Canadians are navigating uncharted waters with US trade relations which again highlights the need for strong relationships here at home that will help our association come out stronger on the other side of this challenging period. The momentum of our 70th year has been felt across every corner of the Association. Our 2025 Expo was one of the most successful in recent memory, bringing together hundreds of members to network, showcase new products, and strengthen business relationships. We also launched exciting new initiatives, including improvements to our ABSDA mobile app, expanded product knowledge training, and a growing online presence that keeps our members informed and engaged. These projects not only enhance member value, they also demonstrate ABSDA’s commitment to evolving with the times while staying true to our roots. Behind the scenes, a great deal of credit belongs to our dedicated Board of Directors.
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These volunteers generously give their time, insight, and energy to ensure the Association continues to meet the needs of our industry. Serving on the board isn’t just a professional responsibility—it’s a chance to give back to a sector that has given so much to all of us. As Chair, I’m excited about the year ahead. We will continue to focus on enhancing member engagement, expanding our career awareness campaign for youth, and fostering even deeper partnerships across the Atlantic region. Our association remains strong because of the people who support it—those who attend our events, share their feedback, and step up to lead.
To our members, thank you for being part of our story—for 70 years and counting. If you’ve ever considered getting more involved, whether through committee work or joining the Board, I encourage you to take that step. You’ll find it’s one of the best investments you can make—not just in the industry, but in your own growth as a leader. Here’s to a strong and successful year— and to the next chapter in ABSDA’s proud history. Jay Milton Chair
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Why Leadership and Training Matter More Than Ever On October 29, 2025, ABSDA will host a one-day Leadership Conference designed to inspire, inform, and equip our members with the tools they need to succeed in today’s ever-changing business environment. This professional development day isn’t just another event—it’s a timely response to the shifting landscape of our industry, where change is no longer on the horizon; it’s already here.
Denis Melanson President
Across Atlantic Canada, the building supply industry is facing a critical demographic shift. A staggering 34% of our workforce is now over the age of 65. This statistic speaks volumes about both the depth of experience in our businesses and the urgent need to prepare for the next generation of talent. Based on current trends, our industry will need to hire approximately 4,000 new employees in the coming years just to maintain operational capacity. That’s a massive challenge—but also a huge opportunity. One of the most pressing issues we see among some retailers is the high rate of employee turnover. While it may be easy to view turnover as just “part of the business,” the reality is that it comes with a high cost—one that many businesses don’t fully recognize. According to industry research, the cost of losing a single employee can range from 30% to 150% of that person’s annual salary, depending on their role and experience level. These costs include lost productivity, recruitment fees, onboarding time, training expenses, and the inevitable hit to morale and customer service. In a people-driven industry like ours, high turnover doesn’t just impact the bottom line—it affects relationships with customers, team culture, and long-term growth. That’s why investing in your people— especially through training and leadership development—is not optional; it’s essential. At ABSDA, we believe that training is one of the smartest investments a business can make. When employees feel valued,
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equipped, and engaged, they’re far more likely to stay, grow, and contribute meaningfully to the organization. Training also builds confidence, improves service quality, and reduces costly errors. More importantly, it signals to employees that they have a future in this industry.
Our Leadership Conference will provide insights and practical strategies to help retailers and suppliers address these challenges head-on. Sessions will explore topics like attracting and retaining younger workers, building effective teams, and understanding generational differences in the workplace. We’ll also hear from speakers who have successfully built strong workplace cultures that retain talent and promote growth. This isn’t just about managing the current workforce—it’s about shaping the future of our industry. With competition for skilled labour intensifying and customer expectations evolving, the businesses that will thrive are the ones that prioritize leadership, culture, and continuous learning. We encourage all ABSDA members to attend the Leadership Conference this October. Whether you’re a store owner, manager, upcoming rising star, or supplier rep, this event will help you sharpen your leadership skills and develop a peoplefirst approach to business success. See you on October 29th, 2025! The future of the building supply industry in Atlantic Canada depends on how we lead, how we train, and how we prepare for what’s next. Let’s invest in our people—because they are, and always will be, our greatest asset. Denis Melanson President
“
There’s never a day that goes by that we don’t have the resources that we need. Amanda Fancy Store Owner Bridgewater, NS
100% Canadian. 100% Dealer-owned and operated.
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When you join the Home Hardware family, you become part of a tight-knit community that’s free from the pressures of external shareholders. Gain access to a trusted brand with personalized resources dedicated to helping your unique business thrive, plus a coastto-coast Dealer network ready to back you every step of the way.
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HR INSIGHTS Patrick Goguen Director, Training and Workforce Development
Navigating the Labour Crunch: Creative Solutions for a Shrinking Workforce
Across Atlantic Canada, one of the most pressing issues facing the building supply industry is the growing challenge of finding—and keeping—skilled workers. It’s no longer just a seasonal concern or a rural issue. Labour shortages are now a year-round, region-wide reality, and they’re having a direct impact on day-to-day operations, customer service, and long-term growth for dealers across the region. The numbers speak for themselves. With 34% of our industry workforce over the age of 65, we’re entering a critical period of transition. Many seasoned employees are retiring, and fewer young workers are entering the trades or retail environments where their skills are badly needed. Based on current trends, ABSDA anticipates that our industry will need to hire approximately 4,000 new employees across Atlantic Canada in the coming years. For dealers, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. While the labour crunch is real, those who adapt proactively will be better positioned to weather the storm—and thrive.
Rethinking Recruitment
Traditional hiring methods are no longer enough. Dealers are now looking beyond local job boards and “Help Wanted” signs and exploring partnerships with high schools, community colleges, and newcomer organizations to attract a wider pool of candidates. Some are investing in co-op programs or parttime opportunities for students, helping them gain exposure to the industry early on. Others are turning to social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and even TikTok to share job openings in creative, engaging ways. A short video featuring a day-in-the-life of a yard worker or sales associate can attract attention from a younger demographic that may never have considered a career in the building supply industry.
Invest in Retention
While finding new talent is important, keeping your current employees should be a top priority. High turnover not only disrupts workflow, it also comes at a high cost. Experts estimate that replacing a single 8
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frontline worker can cost a business between 30% and 50% of that employee’s annual salary when factoring in recruiting, training, and lost productivity. That’s why many successful dealers are now investing more in onboarding, mentorship, and internal training. By offering clear paths for career development—even in smaller operations—employees are more likely to feel valued, engaged, and loyal.
Embrace Flexibility and Culture
Another important factor in today’s labour market is workplace culture. Flexible schedules, strong communication, and a supportive team environment can go a long way in retaining good people. Employees are increasingly looking for workplaces where they feel respected, safe, and part of a team—not just a cog in the machine. Dealers that have embraced this mindset are seeing better results in both retention and customer satisfaction. After all, when your staff is engaged, your customers notice the difference.
A Call to Action
At ABSDA, we recognize the urgency of addressing the labour shortage and helping our members build strong, resilient teams. We’re continuing to develop training programs, career awareness campaigns, and strategic partnerships that support the long-term health of the industry. As we look ahead, the dealers who lead the way will be those who think creatively about recruitment, invest in their people, and foster a culture that employees want to be part of. The labour crunch isn’t going away—but with the right strategies, it can be managed, and even turned into a competitive advantage.
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Gillfor.com ABSDA Building Supply News
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2025
Leadership Conference Leading Through Change
Join us for a one-day, hands-on professional development event designed for people leaders in the building supply industry. With real-world tools, live demos, and actionable insights, this one-day event will leave you inspired and equipped to turn uncertainty into opportunity.
Who Should Attend
This conference is designed for people responsible for leading people and driving positive change in their organization. Whether you’re on the frontlines managing teams or steering the company from the top, you’ll gain practical strategies and tools to lead with confidence in today’s fast-changing environment. Ideal for: • Business Owners and Senior Leaders • Store and Department Managers • HR Professionals and People Leaders
• Marketing and Operations Managers • Supervisors and Team Leads • Anyone leading others through change
Why Attend
In today’s fast-moving world, standing still isn’t an option. The 2025 Leadership Conference is your opportunity to step away from the day-to-day and focus on building the skills, mindset, and strategies needed to lead confidently through change. You’ll walk away with practical tools you can apply immediately—making a real impact on your team, your operations, and your bottom line. By attending, you will: • Learn to lead your team through uncertainty with clarity and confidence • Boost productivity and streamline your business • Shift resistance into momentum and turn challenges into growth • Connect with peers across the industry and share real-world strategies • Gain insights to improve culture, communication, and performance • Earn credibility as a change-ready leader prepared for what’s next
October 29, 2025 Space is limited - register now! absda.ca
We’ve moved the event! Join us at the Sandman Signature Hotel in Dartmouth Crossing, NS—a modern, comfortable venue with ample free parking and easy access, all while avoiding the congestion of downtown. It’s the perfect setting for a focused day of learning, connection, and leadership development.
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AI & the Future of Work
Thriving in the Face of Transformation Facilitated by Yves Boudreau, CEO, CareerBeacon
Change isn’t just coming—it’s already here. For ABSDA members navigating hiring hurdles, skill gaps, and operational shifts, this session delivers real-world tools and inspiration to lead with confidence. Tailored to the realities of the building supply sector, it focuses on how leaders can embrace innovation, strengthen culture, and empower their people to thrive amid uncertainty. You’ll explore: • How AI is shaping the building supply workforce • Leading change with clarity, empathy, and adaptability—while supporting employee well-being • How to create a culture of curiosity and experimentation • Plus, live demos! See how AI goes far beyond writing better emails
How to Successfully Lead Change Facilitated by Pierre Battah, Award-Winning Author and Workplace Leadership Expert
In this interactive session, ABSDA members will explore the principles and practices of successful change leadership. Designed for today’s dynamic retail environment, the workshop equips leaders with practical tools to guide their teams through uncertainty, foster engagement, and build lasting transformation that benefits both business and customers. You’ll learn how to: • Understand and communicate the drivers of change in your workplace • Articulate a vision for change that inspires action • Analyze sources of resistance, view it as feedback, and respond effectively • Communicate with impact—engage teams before, during, and after change
Good Business. Better Habits. Fewer Headaches. (Also known as: If It Ain’t Broke… Or Is It?)
Facilitated by Monique Gallie, CPHR, Change Consultant & Coach
You’ve built a solid business—but somewhere along the way, a few habits might be slowing you down. This session isn’t about starting over. It’s about sharpening what’s already working, spotting the habits that quietly drain your time, trust, or team morale—and knowing what to do about them. In this fast-paced workshop, you’ll: • Pinpoint the leadership habits that help you run lean, reliable operations—and the ones that hold your team back • Learn what neuroscience says about how habits form, why they stick, and how to shift them without disrupting your business • Test simple, proven tools to replace one costly habit with a more effective one—starting right in the session
If you’ve ever said, “It’s just the way I do it,” this session will help you see what’s working—and what may be getting in the way.
ABSDA Building Supply News
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Meet the Speakers - 2025 Leadership Conference: Leading Through Change
AI & the Future of Work By Yves Boudreau, CEO, CareerBeacon
Yves Boudreau CEO, CareerBeacon
Meet Yves Boudreau—a notable figure in the world of human resources technology and recruitment. He is the CEO of CareerBeacon, a prominent online recruitment and talent acquisition site headquartered in Atlantic Canada. His journey in the HR tech industry has been significant, spanning over a decade.
The workplace has changed more in the past five years than it did in the last fifty. From hiring freezes and remote pivots to AI disruption and economic uncertainty, it’s no wonder so many leaders—and especially those in HR—are feeling overwhelmed. But here’s the reality: change isn’t slowing down, and we can’t afford to either.
is spiking, and too many companies are adopting new tech without rethinking how they work. It’s a lot. But ignoring it isn’t an option.
At the upcoming Leadership Conference, I’ll be digging into what this all means for us as leaders navigating workforce transformation. The talent game has changed dramatically, and many organizations are still playing catch-up. Through a mix of hard truths, stories from the front lines, and a bit of humor, I want to validate what we’ve all been experiencing—and more importantly, talk about where we go from here.
Oh—and this won’t just be theory. I’ll be running some quick live AI demos to show how simple tools can make everyday HR tasks—like writing job ads, building onboarding guides, or analyzing feedback— faster, smarter, and yes, more humancentered.
The first part of our time together is a bit of a reality check. We’re talking numbers like 80% of jobs being touched by AI, and over half the workforce needing reskilling in the next five years. Gen Z is facing real challenges, youth unemployment among minorities
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That said—this session isn’t about doom and gloom. It’s about moving forward. In the second half, I’ll share a playbook I’ve seen work: how we lead with both clarity and heart. How we support the next generation, build adaptive and inclusive cultures, and bring well-being to the forefront of our leadership.
Whether you’re skeptical, curious, or already knee-deep in transformation, I hope you’ll leave with something practical, a bit of renewed energy, and maybe even a single key change you’re ready to commit to. Because if there’s one thing I believe, it’s this: the leaders who thrive tomorrow aren’t the ones who wait for change—they’re the ones who shape it.
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Meet the Speakers - 2025 Leadership Conference: Leading Through Change
Leading Change:
Building a Future-Ready Hardware Business By Pierre Battah, Award-Winning Author and Workplace Leadership Expert
Pierre Battah Workplace Leadership Expert
Meet Pierre Battah—a trusted leader in leadership education, known for his ability to connect with and inspire leaders across Canada. With a unique blend of evidence-based insights, practical tools, and a genuine, downto-earth approach, Pierre empowers leaders to transform their teams and create workplaces that thrive.
Change is a constant companion in the hardware and building supply industry. From more knowledgeable customers with more sophisticated expectations to supply chain disruptions, economic fluctuations and uncertainty, and emerging technologies, store owners and managers face a steady stream of challenges that demand agility. This October, ABSDA members will have a valuable opportunity to strengthen their change leadership skills in a Leading Change workshop — a session designed with the realities of this sector in mind. What sets great change leaders apart? It’s not the ability to drive or manage change. It’s the ability to engage people, foster trust, and guide teams through the uncertainty that accompanies transformation. Too often, change initiatives fail not because of poor planning, but because leaders and managers overlook the emotional and psychological impact of change on their teams. Drawing on the work of Harvard’s John Kotter, whose 8 Steps of Leading Change are widely recognized as best practice, this workshop will give you tools to ensure that your change initiatives build momentum and stick. From creating a sense of urgency to embedding change into your business culture, Kotter’s roadmap underpins the session’s approach. Here’s a preview of four key takeaways: Have a clear, compelling vision for change — and communicate it simply. If you can’t explain your vision for change in minutes and spark genuine interest, you’re not done. A well-articulated vision is your north star, helping employees understand where the business is heading and why.
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Expect resistance — and see it as valuable feedback. Resistance is a normal part of the change process. Rather than viewing it as an obstacle, treat it as feedback that reveals concerns and questions. This gives you the chance to refine your approach, build trust, and adjust strategies. Communicate early, often, and consistently. Change isn’t a single announcement — it’s an ongoing dialogue. Employees adopt change at different paces. Frequent, transparent communication before, during, and after change efforts helps reduce anxiety, foster engagement, and keep everyone aligned. Generate early wins to build momentum. Kotter emphasizes the importance of achieving and celebrating quick successes. Early wins demonstrate that change is possible, build credibility, and motivate employees to stay the course as deeper transformations unfold. In a business where adaptability equals success, this workshop will help you lead change with confidence, clarity, and purpose. Don’t miss this opportunity to future-proof your business and support your teams through change. I look forward to seeing you in October!
ARBEC FOREST PRODUCTS INC. (OSB)
www.arbec.ca
© 2022 Arbec Forest Products Inc. ABSDA Building Supply News
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Meet the Speakers - 2025 Leadership Conference: Leading Through Change
Good Business. Better Habits. Fewer Headaches (Also known as: If It Ain’t Broke… Or Is It?) By Monique Gallie, CPHR, Change Consultant & Coach
Leadership habits that help — and the ones that quietly cost you.
Monique Gallie CPHR
You’ve worked hard to build a business that runs. Maybe even runs well. Here’s the thing: some of the habits that got you here — the shortcuts, the routines, the ways you manage people — might now be the ones getting in the way.
Meet Monique Gallie, a strategic advisor in leadership and people excellence. An expert specialized in difficult work environments and conflict resolution, and most importantly, known as the specialist who can help you align your objectives and re-shift your corporate culture to impact your company’s performance and results.
Not in obvious ways. Not in ways that scream “problem.” In the quieter ways that wear on your team, slow down decisions, or leave you solving the same issues over and over. This session isn’t about tearing down what’s working. You’ve earned your results. It’s about sharpening how you lead — without adding fluff, theory, or more to your plate. We’ll take a hard look at the habits that: • Build steady teams and reliable culture • Slowly erode trust, morale, or accountability • Eat into your time, your focus, or your profit — without you realizing it
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July 2025
Most leaders don’t notice the habit until it’s costing them. Like always stepping in to fix things instead of letting others solve problems. Or brushing off staff input because you “already know the answer.” These habits aren’t signs of bad leadership. They’re often the byproduct of survival — built when things were busy, stressful, or urgent. But if you’re running a business, and still reacting like everything’s on fire, something’s off. That’s what this workshop is for. We’ll walk through real examples, use a simple framework to spot what’s helping vs. hurting, and map out exactly how to shift one habit without blowing up your routine. You’ll learn how habits form, why they stick (even when they stop serving you), and how to build stronger ones — the kind that actually make your day easier and your team stronger. You won’t get abstract theory or generic advice. This is a hands-on session built for real leaders — the kind who need their business to run well, their team to step up, and their day-to-day to feel less like firefighting. If you’ve ever said, “It’s just the way I do it,” this session will help you see what’s working — and what might quietly be getting in your way.
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ABSDA Building Supply News
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Industry News SEND US YOUR INDUSTRY NEWS If you have industry news you want to spread around our network – send it in to us. New appointments or retirements; new aquisitions or expansions, anything that’s important to you is probably important to our Members. Pictures are always great too. Email Terry at leblanc@absda.ca.
ABSDA Annual General Meeting On June 25th, 2025 the ABSDA held it’s 70th Annual General Meeting of the Association. The Association reported on it’s many successes over the past 12 months along with laying out a solid plan for the coming year. Thank you to our fantastic Board of Directors, as seen in this photo, for all their commitment to our Industry!
From left to right, Kyle Crook (Kohltech), Duane MacDonald (Callbeck’s HHBC), Deb Brinson (Gander Bay Building Supplies), Peter Merrill (KM Agency), Denis Melanson (ABSDA), Nick Thebeau (Targetts Castle Building Centre), Dominic LeBlanc (Alexandria Moulding), Andrew Jessome (Metrie), Stephen Rector (Island Home Hardware), Dawn McKay (TNT Insulation & Building Supplies), Tim Sabean (Wilson’s Hardware Ltd), Jeff Peddigrew (Marwood), Tanya Hanson Rocca (Roblynn Home Hardware).
ABSDA Elects New Chair of the Board Congratulations to Jay Milton from Gillfor Distribution on being elected as Chair of the ABSDA Board of Director. Jay has been on our Board for 4 years and we have full confidence he will be an excellent leader to guide us through the next fiscal year. Congratulations Jay! 18
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Thank You Tanya
Thank You Peter Merrill
Thank you to Tanya Hanson Rocca which just completed her term as Chair of the ABSDA Board of Directors. Tanya’s leadership was instrumental in guiding our Association over the past 12 months. Tanya will remain on the Board for one more term as Past Chair of the Board. Thank you for your support and direction Tanya!
Peter Merrill of KM Agency has completed his final term on the ABSDA Board of Directors, concluding his service as Past Chair. Over the past eight years, Peter made a lasting impact on our Association.
Welcome Nick Thebeau
We’re pleased to welcome Nick Thebeau from Targetts Castle Building Centre as the newest Dealer Director of our Board of Directors. Nick brings valuable insight from the dealer side of our industry, and we look forward to On behalf of all members, thank his contributions and feedback in support of our members. you, Peter, for your leadership, Welcome aboard, Nick! dedication, and outstanding contribution to ABSDA.
Industry News (cont’d)
BP Canada Celebrates 120 Years of Purely Canadian Innovation BP Canada, a leading manufacturer of building materials, is celebrating its 120th anniversary. To mark their 120th anniversary, BP Canada is unveiling a brand-new image. This new look serves both as a tribute to their past and a vision for the future.
Join Us for the 29th Annual Atlantic Timberkids Golf Tournament!
Congratulations BP Canada on this amazing milestone!
Don’t miss this great opportunity to support a worthy cause and connect with fellow TIMBER MART members!
Mark your calendar for August 7 as we return to Oakfield Golf & Country Club for a 1:00 p.m. tee-off. Registration opens at 11:00 a.m., with lunch served at 11:30. Festivities begin the night before, August 6, with a welcome reception at 6:00 p.m. at The Cable Wharf on Halifax’s waterfront, followed by dinner at 7:30 and live music from The Robinson Brothers.
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Did you know, the ABSDA App is transforming how our members connect, communicate, and stay informed across the Atlantic building supply industry. With more than 700 active users and over 11,000 profile views to date, this digital tool is becoming an essential part of the workday for retailers, suppliers, and front-line staff alike.
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Whether you’re on the sales floor, managing a location, or on the road visiting clients, the ABSDA App gives you access to everything you need, right at your fingertips: • • • • •
Direct dial and email access to supplier contacts GPS navigation to all ABSDA member locations Searchable supplier product lists by category or need Access to training schedules Product search at your fingertips for in-store teams
The app helps your team move faster, serve customers better, and stay informed on industry news, new products, and upcoming events. It’s practical, easy to use, and completely free for ABSDA members.
Don’t Miss Out! CONTEST ENDING SOON Download the ABSDA App before July 30, 2025, and you’ll be entered to win one of five $200 VISA gift cards. Stay informed. Stay connected. Download the ABSDA App today!
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ABSDA Building Supply News
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Industry News (cont’d) TARGETTS Acquire TopMar Building Supplies Congratulations to Targetts Castle Building Centre, in Fredericton NB, on the acquisition of formerly known dealerTopMar Building Supplies. The addition of this location will strengthen their ability to serve more communities across New Brunswick. Owner, Nick Thebeau, and Jody Hanson are excited about the opportunity to grow the business, expand on the existing product offering and continue to serve the local community.
Siding competition ramps up in Eastern Canada The siding market has got a powerful new competitor from Canadian-owned Marwood Ltd., of Tracyville, N.B. The company has announced the launch of Cape Cod Engineered Custom Siding (ECS), effective June 16 in Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada. It says the line is Eastern Canada’s “first fully-serviced, custom-colour siding built on LP SmartSide.” Gillfor will distribute ECS alongside Cape Cod Siding in Ontario. Taiga will distribute both product lines in Quebec and Atlantic Canada and ECS in Ontario. Nicholson and Cates will distribute Cape Cod Siding in Ontario.
20 July 2025 20 July 2025
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PIB’s East Coast Team Suite 116 - 200 Waterfront Drive, Bedford, Nova Scotia B4A 4J4 ABSDA Building Supply News 21 Phone: 1-866-742-7926 or 902-446-4494 www.pib.com
Industry News (cont’d) CGC to acquire Imperial Building Products Gypsum drywall supplier CGC Inc. has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase Imperial Building Products Ltd., based in Richibucto, N.B. IBP’s product range includes steel framing components, drywall trims, accessories, and proprietary structural solutions. Created in 1990 as a division of Imperial Manufacturing Group, IBP operates five manufacturing facilities—in New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. CGC says the acquisition is another part of the company’s long-term strategy to invest in Canadian manufacturing, strengthen domestic supply chains, and support the growing demand for housing and infrastructure in Canada.
Castle Raises Huge Amount for IWK 12” 10”
• INTRODUCING OUR NEW 12” TUBE, THE BFT12! • Bigfoot Systems® Footing Forms along with the BFT10 and BFT12 tube form a complete engineered pre-molded pier footing system. • Bigfoot Systems® engineered design has well established advantages; optimum structural stability, safety and convenience which makes our product the most recognized concrete pier foundation system available. • BFT10 and BFT12 are not affected by ground water or rain.
Safety top with handle to be removed before pouring concrete.
BIGFOOT TUBE 12”
BIGFOOT TUBE 10”
• Prevents uplift from frost and high velocity winds.
48”
• Cost less and requires less concrete than other systems. • Back-filling before pouring concrete? No Problem. • Meets or exceeds all National and Local Building Codes in North America.
BF36
BF28
Fits Both Fits Both BF28 or BF36 BF24 or BF28
BF24
800-934-0393
bigfootsystems.com 22 July 2025 22 July 2025
Congratulations to the Castle Team for raising $47 134.00 for the IWK Foundation. Cheque presentation and seen in the photo are - Terry Mulock, Business Development Manager, Maritimes and Steve Foran, Store Manager, Chester Building Supplies (and of course also Star Drummer of the Kiln Dried Studs). Congratulations Team Castle
Advertisers Index ARBEC www.arbec.ca
15
Building Products of Canada Corp. www.bpcan.com
5
Big Foot www.bigfootsystems.com
22
Castle Building Centres https://youarethebrand.ca/
OBC & 16
Home Hardware Stores Ltd. www.homehardware.ca
7
Garon www.garon.ca
17
Gillfor www.gillfor.com
9
Kohltech www.kohltech.com
12
Metrie www.metrie.com
12
PIB www.pib.com
21
Sexton Group Ltd. www.sextongroup.com
IFC
Westman Steel www.westmansteel.com
IBC
REDEFINING EXCELLENCE
Since 1982, Westman Steel has been at the forefront of redefining excellence in the steel industry. Our steel products don’t just meet industry standards; they redefine them. Westman Steel is your retail Atlantic and now Newfoundland and Labrador building material partner. BISHOP’S FALLS,NL DARTMOUTH,NS (866) 770-7759
ABSDA Building Supply News
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NOTRE DAME AGENCIES LEWISPORTE, NL
CHESTER BUILDING SUPPLIES CHESTER, NOVA SCOTIA
NOVA SCOTIA BUILDING SUPPLIES BLOCKHOUSE, NS
MACCALLUM BUILDING SUPPLIES MIRAMICHI, NEW BRUNSWICK
J.T. SWYERS BUILDING CENTRE BONAVISTA, NEWFOUNDLAND
SPRING VALLEY BUILDING CENTRE KENSINGTON, PEI
You Need To Find Out Why Castle is Canada’s Fastest Growing Buying Group! Contact your regional Castle Business Development Manager
Terry Mulock
Brian Warr
NEW BRUNSWICK, NOVA SCOTIA & PEI
NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
902-471-3985 | tmulock@castle.ca
709-770-5607 | bwarr@castle.ca