Cover Story

(January 2010)

CONSIDER THIS FREE OFFER!

With a background of nearly 30 years in the stone industry in engineering, sales management and marketing I want to put that experience to work for you. The advice is free… so call me.

If you are considering entering the stone industry with a new shop or upgrading an existing shop I can help. There are some key components to a successful fabrication shop and it is not rocket science. I can help you consider layouts and necessary equipment. Regulations in most states vary, but beyond key craftsman and tools, management has to be concerned with OSHA regulations. The high cost of water and the discharge of contaminated water require capturing the coolant water and recycling it. A “one-pass” system is expensive and a “closed loop” system is essential for economical operation. OSHA inspectors will applaud your efforts to protect the environment. It is actually more economical to comply with the rules. Recycled water is an area that can reduce production costs. If you are planning a start-up or an upgrade to your existing facilities… call me and let’s talk about it. I can assist you in moving in the right direction the first time.

With our experience in marketing I recommend you certainly consider news print advertising in your market area. In addition; every fabrication enterprise should have a website with the web address listed prominently near the phone number on your storefront and on all correspondence, sales and work vehicles. Shirts should be worn by your employees displaying your company name, phone number and web address. If you do not have a website call me to discuss it. We can have your company professionally represented with an economical website that will invite potential customers to your showroom and increase your sales. Today people often visit websites before they call your office. Advertising your company economically is essential.

I have helped many people over the years from buying their first saw to operating large successful fabrication shops today. If you are searching for reliable suppliers of products and want to learn more about the stone industry please read some of the archived issues of our publication at www.stoneindustrynews.com. I would consider it a privilege to consult with you. Please do not hesitate to pick up the phone and call 865-947-9275, or e-mail me at fheck@stoneindustrynews.com. My mobile phone number is 865-368-2142.

President Lyndon Johnson once told a story about a community club meeting to discuss the problem of so many puppies appearing in the neighborhood. It was decided that a bulldog in the neighborhood was responsible. They had the dog neutered. It seemed to solve the problem for a number of years; then the problem resurfaced. An emergency meeting was called and one little lady said it is that same old bulldog. No, that couldn’t be reasoned some others because we had him ‘fixed.’ Yes, replied the lady, but now he is acting as a consultant. I don’t want to be responsible for puppies in the neighborhood, but would like to consult with you regarding improving your business.

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