John Fairbanks wanted to make sure American Products Inc., AmPro, entered the Florida market with a strong presence.
The company has consistently supported the construction industry and wanted to make a quick start here.
AmPro has had a presence in the wood flooring industry since 1973. The company is well established in the Carolinas and its expansion plans began with the opening of the Jacksonville office. The company offers high-quality wood flooring, flooring products and equipment.
Fairbanks has been in the hardwood flooring industry since 1990, first as a contractor and then on the manufacturing side of the business. He joined AmPro this year to establish a Florida location and develop a market share here.
“We knew we had to reach our customer base and to do that we wanted to find the best organization to help us do that,” Fairbanks said. “Several organizations were brought to our attention, but NEFBA far surpassed all of them.”
Fairbanks recently joined NEFBA, a step he believes will help him enter this market and develop a customer base. As a new member, he plans to take advantage of the many opportunities NEFBA offers.
“Even though I’m a new member, it’s easy to see how being active and involved will help me reach my goals,” he said. “Looking at the schedule and talking to other members, I can see opportunities for me to expand my knowledge and be the greatest asset possible to the company and the industry.”
NEFBA’s active recruitment also impressed Fairbanks.
“American Products received a phone call from a NEFBA representative, inviting us to an upcoming new member orientation,” he said. “I was so curious and when I attended the orientation, I was impressed by the quality of information provided. Also, the available contacts were beyond my expectations.”
Fairbanks said the networking opportunities were important to him.
“Networking is more that attending socials and get-togethers, although that is important in developing business relationships,” Fairbanks said. “Quality networking is targeting the best contacts for your particular business. NEFBA makes that easy to do. Special councils, committees and educational opportunities enable members to make direct contacts with their most likely customers.”
Fairbanks said he would advise companies new to the area, and those seeking to expand their customer base to join NEFBA.
“Having access to market data, industry and technology news is another reason to join,” he said. “It’s essential for making business decisions. I would also recommend joining because it’s a good career move if you want to grow your business and establish a solid reputation in the community.”
Fairbanks has enjoyed getting back in touch with the local contractors, and he credits NEFBA with providing effective ways to do that. He’s also been able to spend more time with his wife two sons (ages 1 and 3).