IKEA rethinks US store expansion

IKEA has dropped plans to open new stores in North Carolina, Arizona and Nashville as the Sweden-based furniture retailer shifts more of its resources to expanding e-commerce. Read the USA Today story here

Newmark Group to acquire RKF Retail Holdings

Newmark Group aims to expand its retail services platform with the acquisition of RKF Retail Holdings. RKF specializes in retail leasing, consulting and investment services to both U.S. and international tenants and property owners. Read the CoStar Group story here

Sears to shutter 72 more stores in 2018

Sears will close another 72 stores this year, representing about 8% of its remaining 899 locations. The retailer, which booked first-quarter same-store sales declines of 13.4% and 9.5% at Sears and Kmart respectively, has shuttered about 530 stores in the past 12 months. Read the USA Today story here

Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta nearing completion

The retractable roof on the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta is nearing completion, though a few problems had to be managed with the camera shutter-like roof. Construction will focus on completing the roof’s automation mechanics. Read the Curbed/Atlanta story here

Duro-Last, Inc. Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Duro-Last®, Inc. Celebrates 40th Anniversary Duro-Last, Inc., the world’s largest manufacturer of custom-fabricated single-ply roofing systems, celebrated their 40th Anniversary with an Open House on May 16th at their Saginaw, Michigan Headquarters. Over 100 guests attended the event – including local contractors, community members and organizations, and vendor partners – and had the opportunity to tour the Duro-Last, EXCEPTIONAL® Metals and Plastatech® Engineering manufacturing facilities.

Guests were invited to explore Duro-Last’s unique history through interactive timelines and hands-on product demonstrations. Duro-Last leaders and Board members, including Mrs. Burt, widow to Duro-Last founder John R. Burt, were also on hand during the Open House to greet guests and answer questions. Additionally, representatives from each of the John R. Burt family of companies showcased information about their products and operations.

“John R. Burt established a culture of innovation and excellence when he manufactured the first Duro-Last roof in 1978,” said Duro-Last CEO Tom Saeli. “What started as a small manufacturer of PVC pool liners has grown into a leader in the commercial roofing industry. All of us at Duro-Last are proud of the accomplishments we have achieved with our network of dedicated contractor partners across the country, and are excited to share this important milestone with them.”

“While our business and product offerings continue to grow, we remain committed to the entrepreneurial spirit and drive that we began this journey with,” added Jack Burt, Duro-Last Chairman of the Board and son of John R. Burt. “It’s been an honor to carry on my father’s legacy and continue our tradition of a family-owned operation.”
Duro-Last is honoring the theme of “40 Years at the Top” all year long with special activities for employees and contractors. For more information about the history of Duro-Last, Inc. and the John R. Burt family of companies, visit www.duro-last.com.
About Duro-Last®, Inc.

Known as the “World’s Best Roof®”, Duro-Last®, Inc. is the world’s largest manufacturer of custom-fabricated, thermoplastic single-ply roofing systems. Factory controlled custom-fabrication can eliminate up to 85% of field seams, resulting in lower on-site labor costs and easier installation. Duro-Last’s roofing systems are sustainable and durable. Over two billion square feet of Duro-Last membrane has been installed throughout North America. Duro-Last is headquartered in Saginaw, Michigan with additional manufacturing facilities in Grants Pass, Oregon; Jackson, Mississippi; Sigourney, Iowa; Carrollton, Texas; and Ludlow, Massachusetts. For more information on Duro-Last, call 800-248-0280 or visit www.duro-last.com.

FoodFirst Global to revamp Brio, Bravo Cucina chains

Spice Private Equity, the new parent of Bravo Cucina Italiana and Brio Tuscan Grill, has created a new company dubbed FoodFirst Global Restaurants to revamp the restaurant chains and develop new concepts. Former Olive Garden executive Brad Blum has been named to head FoodFirst. Read The Columbus Dispatch story here

3 ways the construction industry can increase technology use

Some industries invest 3.5% to 4.5% in technology, but construction firms only invest about 1%. Collaboration, a reduced dependence on paper and prefabrication can help increase the use of technology in the sector. Read the BOSS Magazine online story here

Report: Numerous forces are reshaping retail centers

A Coresight Research report states that numerous forces are working to shift American malls, including aging millennials, nontraditional channel growth, online apparel sales and department store consolidation. The report notes that the retail footprint will drop by one-fifth by 2023, with apparel sales remaining flat. Read the Retail Dive story here

Hoxton in line for $1B investment to support growth plan

Ennismore, owner of Hoxton hotels and Gleneagles resort, will reportedly receive $1 billion from the founder’s father-in-law to pursue growth plans. Hoxton plans to grow in the United States and Europe through buying and converting hotels. Read the Bloomberg story here

LATICRETE Expands Canadian Reach

LATICRETE, a leading manufacturer of globally-proven construction solutions for the building industry, is expanding its footprint in Canada with a dedicated in-country business operation, including a new office in the town of Tecumseh in the Windsor-Essex region of Ontario. The new business effort strengthens the company’s Canadian presence and provides a base to immediately grow the sales force in the region.

“Canada consistently ranks in the world’s top 10 largest construction markets, making it a prime area for growth,” said Stephen Butkovich, who will lead the business effort as the Director of LATICRETE Canada. “Over the years, we have seen carryover between the U.S. and Canada with many skilled workers attending American trade shows. This new presence is a prime opportunity to combine the knowledge of those workers and be able to better assist our Canadian customers with easier access to our team and our products.”

Prior to his new role, Stephen Butkovich served as a Regional Sales Manager overseeing business channels of LATICRETE in the Mid-Atlantic and Canada-East regions.

“We are excited to welcome LATICRETE to Tecumseh,” said Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara. “I have always said Tecumseh is a great location with excellent proximity to North American markets. We are pleased LATICRETE has chosen our town to open their business and look forward to supporting their future growth in the region.”

The WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation assisted LATICRETE with scouting locations, matching benefits and provided the necessary macroeconomic data to determine the proper location for the business effort.

“It’s been our pleasure working with LATICRETE, and this announcement today certainly enhances our collective efforts in diversifying our economy,” said Stephen MacKenzie, CEO, WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation.

About LATICRETE
LATICRETE is a leading manufacturer of globally proven construction solutions for the building industry. LATICRETE offers a broad range of products and systems covering tile & stone installation and care, masonry installation and care, resinous and decorative floor finishes, concrete construction chemicals, and concrete restoration and care including the LATICRETE® SUPERCAP® System. For 60 years, LATICRETE has been committed to research and development of innovative installation products, building a reputation for superior quality, performance and customer service. LATICRETE methods, materials, and technology have been field and laboratory proven by Architects, Engineers, Contractors and Owners. Offering an array of low VOC and sustainable products, LATICRETE products contribute to LEED certification, exceed commercial/residential VOC building requirements, and are backed by the most comprehensive warranties in the industry.

For more information, visit laticrete.com.

Viking’s Pedestal Mount Solutions VE-GNP Series

Viking’s weather resistant VE-GNP Series of gooseneck pedestals offer a tough and reliable solution for outdoor stanchion mounting applications.

“The VE-GNP Series pedestals are sturdy, strong, and built to last – so they fit right in with the rest of Viking’s products.” – Mike Busby, Marketing Manager, Viking Electronics, Inc.

Viking’s VE-GNP Series of pedestals are made from vandal resistant 11-gauge steel with a weather resistant black powder coating or 15-gauge stainless steel with a weather resistant 304 brushed finish. Some models feature pre-machined holes for mounting to a cement pad while other models are designed to be mounted directly in the ground. All Viking pedestals are constructed for universal car height, and a double gooseneck version is available for applications involving tall vehicles.

The VE-GNP Series is designed to work with Viking’s VE-Series of surface mount boxes, providing a complete mounting solution for most applications.

For more information on the VE-GNP Series, visit: www.vikingelectronics.com/product_docs/DOD/424.pdf

Viking Electronics designs and manufactures over 500 security and communication products; such as Emergency Phones, Entry Systems, Paging Interfaces, Amplifiers, Mass Notification Systems, Hot Line Phones, Auto Dialers, Enclosures, and more. In addition to our extensive analog line, we also offer a large selection of IP based solutions. Viking’s VoIP products are SIP compliant, with features such as built-in relays and automatic noise canceling. We are continually developing new ideas using the latest technology to expand our product lines. As always, Viking products are designed, manufactured, and supported in the USA and backed by a two year limited warranty. For more information, please visit: www.vikingelectronics.com.

Havwoods International Henley collection

Havwoods International, the innovative UK-based hardwood flooring supplier, provides newfound life to forgotten, discarded with the Henley collection.

Earlier this year, Havwoods International expanded the Henley collection with the addition of Coalburn, which presents a rustic, yet elegant, gray hue. These engineered planks, milled to twenty-first century production tolerances, offer an easy installation process and can be used for floors, walls, ceilings, doors, furniture, and even lighting!

More info at www.havwoods.com.

Calculated Industries New Feature on Calculator Apps

Keeping pace with customer needs, Calculated Industries (CI) has released its latest enhanced feature for a number of its calculator Apps. The new Advanced Tape feature is now available on five of the company’s Apps including the award-winning Construction Master Pro (CMP).

The Advanced Tape function provides a number of features that make the Apps more useful. It enables you to display, review, save and email inputs, descriptions and calculated values for many of the functions on the Apps. It records your inputs and outputs for saving as a file to archive or to send as an attached PDF in an email. It is available for the Construction Master Pro, Construction Master 5, Pipe Trades Pro, Qualifier Plus IIIx and the Measure Master Pro.

“Advanced Tape helps you work smarter by keeping track of measurements, cut lists, and other figures while you are at a jobsite, in the shop or just out of the office,” said Steve Kennedy, President of Calculated Industries. “Plus, being able to email files to estimators, sub-contractors and others makes construction and manufacturing work more efficient.”

When the Advanced Tape feature is available for a function in the App, a tape icon appears in the display, tap to open the Advanced Tape. It is just as easy to access Advanced Tape archives by opening the Tape function at any time. Using the Advanced Tape feature on a mobile device enables users to do advanced calculations, save the detailed results to a file, and then email the file to the office, a client and others to keep a job moving forward.

One example of how this works is in the calculation of a stair case on the CMP. Simply input the floor-to-floor rise and any horizontal constraints of where the stairs are needed and let the CMP figure out the rest. The App provides you with the output of the riser height, how many risers you have, tread width, number of treads, stairwell opening, the stringer length and stair angle of incline.

Calculated Industries’ Apps are available through the App Store, Google Play and the Windows Phone Store. Existing users of CI’s Apps can update their app to receive this new feature for free. Available for iOS and Android operating systems.

Calculated Industries is one of the country’s leading manufacturers of specialty calculators, apps, digital measuring tools, and precision hand tools for industry and personal use. CI has developed tools for tasks ranging from construction, architecture, real estate and lending to cooking and quilting. CI products are designed and tech-supported in Carson City, Nevada.

More info at www.calculated.com.

Arecont Vision LLC Signs Asset Purchase Agreement

Arecont Vision®, the industry leader in IP-based megapixel camera and video surveillance solutions, announced  that it has executed an asset purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with an affiliate of Turnspire Capital Partners, LLC (“Turnspire”) under which Turnspire will acquire substantially all of the Company’s assets. As previously announced, the Company has initiated proceedings under chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code in the District of Delaware (“Court”) to facilitate the Purchase Agreement and substantially reduce its debt.

Key Elements of the Purchase Agreement:
• Employees will be retained.
• Customer programs and services will continue.
• Vendors and Suppliers with valid, prepetition trade claims will be paid in full.
• Arecont Vision will be debt-free.
• Investments will be made into the development of new, industry-leading products.
• Company will have new owners and a new Board of Directors.

“Through this partnership, Arecont Vision is poised for growth. Reducing our debt and putting resources back into the business will ensure greater innovation, larger strategic partnerships, and a stronger company for all of our constituents,” said Raul Calderon, Chief Operating Officer and General Manager, Arecont Vision. “Since we began the chapter 11, operations have been running very smoothly. We are appreciative of the support of our employees, customers and vendors, and look forward to closing the sale and emerging in July a stronger, more competitive company.”

The Company has also filed a bid procedures and sale motion with the Court. The Turnspire bid will be subject to an auction at which it will be subject to higher and better offers, and requires Court approval. Arecont Vision has requested a bid deadline of June 29, 2018, 4:00 p.m., prevailing Eastern Time; an auction date of July 5, 2018; and a Sale Hearing on or about July 6, 2018.

Court filings as well as other information related to the restructuring are available at www.omnimgt.com/arecont or by calling the restructuring information hotline, 844-378-2736 (toll free in North America) or +1-818-906-8300 (International).

The Company is advised by the law firm of Pachulski, Stang, Ziehl & Jones LLP, Armory Strategic Partners as the Company’s chief restructuring officer and financial advisor, and Imperial Capital as the Company’s investment banker.

ABOUT ARECONT VISION
Arecont Vision is the leading US-based manufacturer of high-performance IP cameras and video surveillance solutions. The company offers two-megapixel camera families – the Mega® IP series includes Made in USA, cyber-secure MicroBullet®, MicroDome®, MegaBall®, MegaDome®, MegaVideo®, MegaView®, and SurroundVideo® models – plus the world-class Contera® IP series dome and bullets. Both camera families offer single- and multi-sensor choices that are integrated with the ConteraVMS® (video management system), ConteraWS® (web services), and the ConteraCMR® (cloud-managed video recorder) series for traditional or cloud-based video surveillance solutions. Arecont Vision supports integration with leading 3rd party products through the MegaLab and via ONVIF compliance.

ABOUT TURNSPIRE CAPITAL PARTNERS
Turnspire Capital Partners invests in high-quality businesses that have reached strategic, financial or operational inflection points and stand to benefit from our hands-on, operationally focused approach. Turnspire’s investment philosophy is predicated on creating value through operational improvements rather than through financial leverage. Turnspire strives to make each of its companies best-in-class in their respective industry niche, and then to grow the businesses through organic initiatives or strategic acquisitions. For additional information, please visit www.turnspirecap.com.

Guerdon New VP of Business Development

Guerdon Modular buildings, the leading manufacturer of large-scale, commercial modular construction projects in the Western US and Canada, has promoted Michael Merle from hospitality division director to vice president of business development. This announcement follows the retirement of Dan Horne who held the business development position for 17 years.

“Michael’s promotion is part of a succession plan that has been Guerdon’s strategy for quite some time,” said Jerry Goodwin, Guerdon CEO. “He is well equipped to manage Guerdon’s growing business development efforts and we are all looking forward to where Michael will take us.”

Merle will lead Guerdon’s business development team in all aspects of new business. As hospitality division director, he grew Guerdon’s hospitality segment from limited offerings to more than 80% of the company’s current pipeline.

About Guerdon Modular Buildings
Guerdon is the leading manufacturer of large-scale, complex modular construction projects and modular multi-family housing developments in the Western United States and Canada. Guerdon’s innovative modular construction technology reduces build time and construction impacts while delivering significant improvements in quality, energy efficiency, noise reduction and cost-effectiveness when compared to on-site building methods. Guerdon’s construction experience, engineering, design expertise and manufacturing capacity is unrivaled in the industry. For more information, visit www.guerdon.com.

Upgrades to FLIR Premiere Handheld HD Cameras

 

FLIR Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLIR) announced the release of the FLIR T1010 – a new addition to the T1K series of HD thermal imaging cameras. This latest model includes software upgrades that will make all T1K series cameras more responsive and intuitive to use. When combined with the features that define the T1K as FLIR’s flagship handheld camera – HD resolution, precision HDIR lenses, proprietary image processing solutions, and thoughtful, ergonomic design – the T1010 and T1020 can help users find problem areas faster, gather detailed, accurate temperature information, and streamline their workday.

The T1010 is a lower-cost entry point to the expert lineup of T1K cameras. It offers the same 1024 x 768 (786,432 pixels) HD detector as the T1020, which can be boosted to 3.1 Megapixels thanks to FLIR’s unique UltraMax® image enhancement. Like all T1K cameras, the T1010 uses high-fidelity OSX Precision HDIR optics, which FLIR designed specifically to work with HD detectors for greater image clarity and measurement accuracy. The T1010 offers the same compact, reinforced design with a 120° rotating optical block, so users can scan targets at any angle while maintaining a comfortable position.

As FLIR releases the T1010, it is also upgrading the firmware for the entire T1K family. This latest version offers an updated graphical user interface (GUI) that’s as agile and responsive as a smartphone. New features include 1-Touch Level/Span, for improving image contrast, and customizable work folders to help streamline reporting. The latest firmware is integrated with all new T1010 and T1020 cameras, and also can be downloaded for free from FLIR customer support (http://flir.custhelp.com).

“The new GUI is a significant upgrade to what was already an industry-leading camera,” said Rickard Lindvall, General Manager of Instruments at FLIR. “By giving the T1K the feeling and responsiveness of a smart phone or tablet, we’re making it more accessible to new users. And it allows us to add on-screen tools that users really wanted, like 1-Touch Level/Span – which helps users fix the contrast on the target just by touching the screen.”
The T1010 is now available for purchase from select channel partners and directly from FLIR for $34,950. To learn more about all the T1K cameras, visit www.flir.com/t1k.

About FLIR Systems
FLIR Systems, Inc. is a world leader in the design, manufacture, and marketing of sensor systems that enhance perception and awareness. FLIR’s advanced systems and components are used for a wide variety of thermal imaging, situational awareness, and security applications, including airborne and ground-based surveillance, condition monitoring, navigation, recreation, research and development, manufacturing process control, search and rescue, drug interdiction, transportation safety, border and maritime patrol, environmental monitoring, and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives (CBRNE) threat detection. For more information, visit FLIR’s web site at www.FLIR.com.

SuperMoney Launches Financing for Small Business Growth

SuperMoney, a leading financial service comparison site, has announced the launch of an innovative new No-Fee Financing Platform that offers affordable point of sale financing opportunities for small businesses nationwide.

Built on top of SuperMoney’s consumer loan offer engine technology – which has exceeded more than half a billion dollars in loan requests since launching one year ago – the company’s new No-Fee Financing Platform is making point of sale financing available for merchants and service providers across all industries including home improvement, healthcare and specialty retail.

Small businesses can get set up to offer financing in a matter of minutes with this sleek new platform and SuperMoney is partnering with banks, credit unions, and direct lenders to provide competing financing offers for the consumer.

“We are empowering businesses with a full-featured point of sale financing solution that has been unattainable for millions of small businesses nationwide,” said Miron Lulic, founder and CEO of SuperMoney. “Until now, the point of sale financing options available to small businesses have been archaic and painfully expensive.”

Because small businesses represent more than 99% of US companies, millions of businesses have been suffering from expensive and inefficient financing solutions for their customers – with rates typically up to 10%.

“We’re expanding opportunities for merchants to boost sales at no cost to them,” said Lulic. “It’s also allowing consumers the opportunity to receive competing financing offers with more transparency when making purchases. This is a game-changer for economic growth.”

For more information, visit https://www.supermoney.com/point-of-sale-financing/.

About SuperMoney
SuperMoney is a financial resource that helps consumers achieve their financial goals. The company’s tools allow people to compare financial products and services so they can make better financial decisions.

Michael Green Architecture Joins Katerra

Katerra, a technology company redefining the construction industry, and Michael Green Architecture Inc. (MGA), a globally recognized leader in mass timber architecture, announced a partnership today that underscores a profound evolution in the design and construction industries.

The two companies share the same vision for the future in which quality and efficiency align with reducing costs and affordability, from initial design, through the life of the building. This new partnership will bring together technology, manufacturing, and design excellence to offer more sustainable, cost effective, and elegant architecture options to North American and global markets.

In becoming a Katerra Company, MGA’s leadership and team will remain fundamentally unchanged and continue to provide their clients with thoughtful and sustainable solutions of all scales and typologies. With the support of Katerra’s technology expertise and production capability, MGA’s impact will grow through an increased project scope that will offer clientele a broader range of cost and construction options.

“Katerra is thrilled to welcome MGA,” said Michael Marks, chairman and co-founder of Katerra. “Michael Green and his team have built a reputation for engaging design and leadership in the use of mass timber. This goes a long way to support our mission to utilize cutting-edge technology and systems to revolutionize the construction industry.”

“MGA is excited to become a part of the Katerra ecosystem,” said Michael Green, CEO and President of MGA. “MGA and Katerra both aim to provide elegant, sustainable, high-performance, affordable buildings. Katerra’s goal to accomplish this on a large scale aligns with MGA’s long-term ambition. MGA is determined to create a meaningful and lasting legacy for our clients, the planet, and the social well-being of the people living on it.”

About Katerra
Katerra is a vertically-integrated technology company optimizing every aspect of building development, design, and construction. With leadership drawn from the most groundbreaking technology, design, manufacturing, and construction companies, Katerra transforms how buildings and spaces come to life. Founded in 2015, Katerra has a growing number of domestic and international offices, factories, and building projects.

About MGA
MGA is an award-winning, mid-sized architecture firm known worldwide for creating engaging, sustainable and innovative projects. Based in Vancouver, Canada, MGA was founded by Michael Green, a leading expert in tall wood building innovation and carbon-neutral urban building approaches. He has produced groundbreaking publications and delivered the 2013 TED talk, Why We Should Build Wooden Skyscrapers. MGA has received numerous honors including three Governor General’s Medals in Architecture, the highest distinction given to architectural projects in Canada.

Media Contacts
Robin Clewley
Katerra, VP, Marketing & Communications
Robin.Clewley@katerra.com
.
Susan Gagnon
Director of Communications and Strategic Operations
Michael Green Architecture Inc, A Katerra Company
Susan@mg-architecture.ca

Danny Seo & Wilsonart Collaborate on “Slice of Ice”

For more than 60 years, Wilsonart has continually pushed the design envelope to recreate the authentic look of wood, metal and stone into sustainable laminate surfaces. And now, an unexpected part of nature is inspiring their latest collection. The “Slice of Ice by Danny Seo” line, which brings a very modern, high end look to laminate, is influenced by the striations that have developed in glacial ice over thousands of years. Working closely with designer, TV host and magazine Editor-in-Chief Danny Seo, the collection of nine designs was developed over the last two years and features “cracked ice” patterns in light icy blues, dark blues, and shades of gray, white and black.

“I find inspiration everywhere in nature, and it seems the beautiful cool tones, colors and patterns you find in glaciers are the last untapped design resources,” says Danny, the host of the Emmy-winning “Naturally, Danny Seo” on NBC and Editor-in-Chief of the magazine of the same name. “The perfect artist is Mother Nature and the stunning patterns are familiar, yet fresh and modern. They work as a gorgeous cool countertop, or to create a stunning effect when used vertically on walls.”

“Collaborating with Danny to develop this collection has not only been exciting but also a privilege for Wilsonart,” said Tammy Weadock, Marketing Communications Manager at Wilsonart. “The ‘Slice of Ice by Danny Seo’ designs are contemporary, surprising and an important addition to our Virtual Design Library.”

Sapphire Ice | Fine Velvet Texture | Y0624-38 – a large-scale stone design with white and blue veining. This dramatic deep blue design has levels of transparency, creating visual interest.

Onyx Ice | Fine Velvet Texture | Y0625-38 – a dramatic black stone design with large white and grey veining. This large-scale design has a beautiful transparency effect.

Diamond Ice | Soft Silk Finish | Y0626K-21 – a warm white large-scale stone design with large grey veining. This beautiful pattern has visual transparency for a bold look.

White Iceberg | Fine Velvet Texture | Y0627-38 – a large-scale white stone design with black and grey veining. This design was created from actual photos of glaciers.

Blue Iceberg | Fine Velvet Texture | Y0628-38 – a large-scale pale blue stone design with black veining. This design and its coloration was created from actual photos of glaciers.

Polar Hex | Fine Velvet Texture | Y0629-38 – an abstracted stone design made up of hexagons. This medium-scale design is in blacks, greys and white.

Frozen Hex | Fine Velvet Texture | Y0631-38 – a medium-scale abstracted stone design made up of hexagons in blues, greys, white and black.

Arctic Voyage | Soft Silk Finish | Y0633K-21 – a large-scale stone design in warm white and greys. The design was inspired by ice packs found in the Arctic sea.

Arctic Expedition | Soft Silk Finish | Y0634K-21 – a medium grey and charcoal stone design. This stunning large-scale design was inspired by Arctic ice flows.

The “Slice of Ice by Danny Seo” collection is now available online as part of the Wilsonart® Virtual Design Library, an evolving curation of boutique laminates available to ship 21 days from factory.

About Wilsonart
Wilsonart, a world leading engineered surfaces company, is driven by a mission to create surfaces people love, with service you can count on, delivered by people who care. The company manufactures and distributes High Pressure Laminate, Quartz, Solid Surface, Coordinated TFL and Edgebanding and other engineered surface options for use in the office, education, healthcare, residential, hospitality and retail markets. Operating under the Wilsonart®, Resopal®, Polyrey®, Arborite®, Laminart®, Bushboard, Shore, Mermaid, Ralph Wilson®, KML® and Durcon® brands, the company continuously redefines decorative surfaces through improved performance and aesthetics. For more information, visit www.wilsonart.com.

About Danny Seo
Through his namesake magazine “Naturally, Danny Seo” and Emmy Award-winning TV show of the same name, lifestyle expert Danny Seo has shared his creative ideas for over 20 years to become the country’s leading authority on modern, healthy, eco-friendly living. In addition to the magazine and weekly TV show on NBC, the Danny Seo portfolio also includes a full line of Danny Seo home, kitchen and decorative products sold in over 4,000 stores; a nationally syndicated column called “Do Just One Thing,” and over 10 bestselling books including his latest: “Naturally, Delicious: 100 Recipes for Healthy Eats that Make You Happy.” Follow Danny on Twitter and Instagram @dannyseomag.

US Health & Safety: Cost of Compliance vs. A Violation

Despite the growing awareness of the importance of health and safety compliance, many businesses still struggle to safeguard themselves against penalties. Fines for safety and health offences increased by 80% since the new HSE sentencing guidelines came into force in 2016, reaching a total of £69.9 million compared to £38.8 million the previous year.
The US is also building more robust health and safety legislation to decrease the number of workplace accidents, by implementing stricter regulations and higher fees.
How have these attempts shaped the overall health and safety situation in the last years?

Penalties on The Rise in the US
Although the official government agency, OSHA, develops new regulations and enforcement strategies, states can opt to have their own programme. Thus, actual regulations can differ, provided they are at least equivalent to federal requirements.
In total, 25 states have started their own programmes, with some, like California and Michigan, having much stricter federal requirements.

Despite regulations differing from state to state, official data from the United States Department of Labour shows that large penalties for OSHA breaches are on the rise. 2017 recording 866 cases where the offender was charged $40,000 or more for critical violations. The volume of issued penalties in 2018 is projected to be over 600.

The Causes of Fatal Injuries at Work
Most frequently cited OSHA violations in 2017 were due to lack of fall protection in the construction industry. This was followed by the hazard communication standard and then general requirements in scaffolding.

When it comes to fatal injuries, a total of 5,190 fatal accidents were recorded in 2016 – a 7 percent increase from 2015. Numbers have been increasing consecutively for the last three years, with violence and other injuries by persons or animals seeing the largest rise in workplace fatalities of 23%. Mining, quarrying and oil and gas extraction decreased the most (26%).

The most extreme case in 2017 saw the Atlantic Drain Service in Boston pay $1.5 million after two workers died in a trench. Apparently, employees never received safety training and didn’t have access to ladders to exit the trench.

The Cost of Health And Safety Violations
To counter the increase in workplace accidents, OSHA raised penalties.
Now under new regulations, one violation will cost up to $129,336 if wilful neglect is found or the incident is repeated. If the company fails to abate, each day beyond the abatement date can cost another $12,934, depending on the magnitude of the breach.

The famous case of BP Texas City Refinery can help illustrate the reality of such extreme instances. In 2005, the company was fined $21m after an explosion that killed 15 and injured 170 employees revealed more than 200 safety violations. Expecting the company to have learned its lesson, the findings of a follow-up inspection in 2009 are even more unbelievable. OSHA discovered that not only had the previous citations not been fixed, BP had also convicted another 439 violations, resulting in a total of more than 700 violations – and a record-breaking $87 million fee!

Whilst this may be an extreme case, the averages speak volumes. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention estimates the average cost of a fatal injury in the US to be about $990,000, including the victim’s hospital costs, worker’s compensation, general medical expenses, civil liability or litigation costs and property loss.

With the additional expenses associated with workplace disruptions, loss of productivity, worker replacement, training, and attorney fees, liability companies may be looking at an overall actual cost of between $1.4m and $3m on average per death.

Average US Health and Safety Violation Double the Cost of Compliance
Small to medium sized firms typically spend about $53,000 on health and safety compliance a year. A violation, which could simply be not having a fire extinguisher, can end up costing the business on average around $129,336. That makes compliance costs on average less than half cost of compliance. A larger case, with more violations, more victims, and perhaps a fatality, could easily cost the employer multiple times that annual compliance cost.

Looking at the high cost and fatal consequences of insufficient safety management in comparison to the returns of a healthy working environment, one would expect companies to value health and safety highly when implementing their business strategy. However, according to a survey from Employers, 25% of micro-business employees and 17% of small business employees have never received workplace safety training.

Towards a Safer Future
With health and safety regulations becoming stricter, violations are now more expensive and breaches less economic than ever before. Putting aside the ethical reasons for establishing a safe work environment, economically, this strategy doesn’t make sense.
Both the UK and US government initiatives are trying to make compliance a priority for the private sector by issuing higher penalties and carrying out more inspections. It is time for business owners to catch up with these efforts and build a sustainable safety plan.

Arinite clients appreciate we provide practical, no-nonsense advice about what you need to do to establish and maintain a safe and healthy working environment.
If you need to call upon our expert assistance, or just for an informal chat, please call our office on 0207 947 9581, or drop Brendan Tuite an email b.tuite@arinite.com.

The Dangers of Asbestos and Its Link to Mesothelioma

Being diagnosed with any type of cancer is a shock to patients and their families. Treatment, recovery and lifelong battles are now part of their daily lives. One ailment that's relatively common is mesothelioma. It's a type of lung disease that's often associated with asbestos. To understand this ailment and patients' risk levels, take a close look at mesothelioma and asbestos as their link becomes clear.

Subway sees demand for new restaurants in global markets

Subway makes domestic closing and relocation decisions on a case-by-case basis and it’s focusing major expansion efforts in markets such as China where it sees pent-up demand. The chain will also focus growth efforts on Europe, South Korea, India and Saudi Arabia. Read the Nation’s Restaurant News story here

Tim Hortons grows UK presence into N. Ireland

Canadian coffee chain Tim Hortons has confirmed it will open its first Northern Ireland store, with more to follow later this year. Tim Hortons will open on Belfast’s Fountain Street, confirming the first of “a number of locations” due to open in the north this year, some of which will be drive-thrus. Read The Irish News story here

IKEA to open first stores in 3 South American countries

IKEA has signed a deal with Chile-based retailer Falabella to start opening stores in South America as part of its push to expand into new markets, the Sweden-based furniture retailer said. It plans to open nine or more locations in Peru, Chile and Colombia over the next decade and will also launch online sales. Read the Reuters story here

5 Simon Property retail centers will get new Marriott hotels

Marriott International is opening five hotels at retail centers around the United States that are owned by Simon Property Group. Simon has been incorporating hotels into its properties for 15 years, many of which are Marriott-branded, and the REIT plans to increase this activity. Read the GlobeSt story here

Three Top Technology Trends Empowering Cutting-Edge Construction Companies

By Roy Rasmussen

When it comes to technology adoption, the construction industry has traditionally lagged behind other major industries. Seven in 10 construction companies spend less than 1 percent of their sales revenue on technology, 60 to 70 percent below the average for other major industries, a 2016 JBKnowledge survey found. But as advancing technology has enabled new construction applications, more construction companies are increasing their tech budget. A 2017 Software Connect survey found that 82 percent of construction companies plan to maintain or increase their technology spending over the next 12 months. Here’s a look at some of the technology trends that cutting-edge construction companies are adopting to improve their efficiency, cut their costs and gain an edge on the competition.

Puma plans flagship on New York’s 5th Avenue

Germany-based Puma will open a three-story flagship on New York City’s Fifth Avenue that will have the space to showcase a wide range of the sportswear brand’s products, The Wall Street Journal says. Rival brands including Adidas and Nike also have stores in the Fifth Avenue shopping district.

Accor merger to supercharge Movenpick’s growth

The pending merger with AccorHotels will provide Movenpick with access to Accor’s massive loyalty program and sales channels, accelerating Movenpick’s growth. Read the Hotel News Now story here

Marriott perfecting the formula to compete with Airbnb

Marriott‘s move to partner with Tribute Portfolio Homes in London is paying off, and the hotel company believes it can compete in the home-sharing market. Read the Fast Company online story here

Prototype renews Tru by Hilton across the board

Additions to guest rooms, refinements to the lobby design and an upgraded hot breakfast presentation highlight the prototype of Tru by Hilton‘s next generation. Read the Hotel Business story here

Current trends in green building and resilient design

By Brian Binke

Since buildings place a significant strain on the nation’s power grid, the demand for more zero-energy buildings continues to grow. More construction firms are focusing on building structures that are resilient and also able to generate much of their own power through renewable sources like solar panels, efficient heat pumps, radiant cooling systems and techniques that improve building envelopes.

Kona Grill plans franchise growth in the US, China

Kona Grill will begin franchising in the United States and in China with the Chinese Plateno Hotel Group, which invested $5.6 million in Kona Grill shares. Kona Grill operates 46 U.S. restaurants and has three international franchise locations. Read the Nation’s Restaurant News story here

Food halls play a key role in redeveloping malls

Food halls featuring local artisan products, food-focused boutiques and classes and other events have become a growing focus for U.S. malls as they work to reinvent themselves,. The number of US food halls has grown from 30 to 180 since 2010 and is forecast to hit 300 by 2020, according to real estate company Cushman & Wakefield. Read the Forbes story here

Cava Group attracts new equity investors

The parent company of Greek-inspired fast-casual chain Cava is raising nearly $35 million in new funding from equity investors. Last year, Cava Group raised $34.9 million that it used to expand to new markets including Boston, Charlotte, N.C., and Austin, Texas. Read The Business Journals story here

Guard armory in Bozeman, Mont., becoming boutique hotel

Vacant for most of the last decade, the old National Guard armory building in downtown Bozeman is beginning to show signs of life. Plans are moving forward to repurpose the building into an eight-story boutique hotel complete with event space and at least a pair of restaurants. Read the Bozeman Daily Chronicle story here

LATICRETE Chairman/CEO 2018 Award Semifinalist

David Rothberg, Chairman and CEO of LATICRETE—a leading manufacturer of globally proven construction solutions for the building industry—has been selected as a semifinalist for an Entrepreneur Of The YearⓇ 2018 Award in the New York Region. The awards program, which is celebrating its 32nd year, recognizes entrepreneurs who are excelling in areas such as innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their business and community.

“David has successfully navigated the transition from the first to second generation while retaining the core values that enabled LATICRETE to grow from its roots as a garage operation to a global player in construction materials,” said Edward Metcalf, LATICRETE North America President and COO. “Building on the work of founders Dr. Henry M Rothberg and Lillian Rosenstock Rothberg, David is actively engaged in paving the way for the third generation of this prototypical American success story.”

Since its inception, EY has been at the forefront of identifying game-changing business leaders and celebrating American ingenuity.

“David’s vision along with his business and financial acumen have been crucial to maintaining a focus on innovation that has resulted in drastic improvements in quality, durability, productivity and worker-safety on job sites all around the globe. Commitment to community service and social action have also been hallmarks of David’s tenure, setting an example for all LATICRETE team members to emulate,” added Metcalf.

New York Region winners will be announced at a special gala event on June 12, 2018, and be considered alongside other regional winners for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National competition in the fall.

Founded and produced by EY, the Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards are nationally sponsored in the U.S. by SAP America, Merrill Corporation and the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. In New York, sponsors also include Marsh, Empire Valuation, Kirkland & Ellis LLP, Pine Hill Group, SolomonEdwardsGroup and DLA Piper.

About LATICRETE
LATICRETE is a leading manufacturer of globally proven construction solutions for the building industry. LATICRETE offers a broad range of products and systems covering tile & stone installation and care, masonry installation and care, resinous and decorative floor finishes, concrete construction chemicals, and concrete restoration and care including the LATICRETE® SUPERCAP® System. For 60 years, LATICRETE has been committed to research and development of innovative installation products, building a reputation for superior quality, performance and customer service. LATICRETE methods, materials, and technology have been field and laboratory proven by Architects, Engineers, Contractors and Owners. Offering an array of low VOC and sustainable products, LATICRETE products contribute to LEED certification, exceed commercial/residential VOC building requirements, and are backed by the most comprehensive warranties in the industry. For more information, visit laticrete.com.

About Entrepreneur Of The Year®
Entrepreneur Of The Year®, founded by EY, is the world’s most prestigious business awards program for entrepreneurs, chosen from an independent panel of judges including entrepreneurs and prominent leaders from business, finance, and the local community. The program makes a difference through the way it encourages entrepreneurial activity among those with potential and recognizes the contribution of people who inspire others with their vision, leadership and achievement. As the first and only truly global awards program of its kind, Entrepreneur Of The Year celebrates those who are building and leading successful, growing and dynamic businesses, recognizing them through regional, national and global awards programs in over 145 cities and more than 60 countries. For more information, visit ey.com/eoy.

About EY’s Growth Markets Network
EY’s worldwide Growth Markets Network is dedicated to serving the changing needs of high-growth companies. For more than 30 years, we’ve helped many of the world’s most dynamic and ambitious companies grow into market leaders. Whether working with international mid-cap companies or early stage, venture-backed businesses, our professionals draw upon their extensive experience, insight and global resources to help your business succeed. For more information, please visit us at ey.com/sgm or follow news on Twitter @EY_Growth.

About EY
EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

Six Ways To Become a Successful Construction Project Manager

By Eric Weisbrot

Construction project management can be a lucrative business for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to be successful. However, creating a thriving business is not often mastered in a training course or a during a stint at college. The experience that comes from winning – and losing – on the job lays the foundation for long-term accomplishments. But licensed and bonded construction project managers need to also embrace the following steps in order to be effective.

The science of dual technology in exit signs

For building and facility owners or managers striving to meet fire and safety codes, new “dual technology” exit signs are combining the efficiency of LED lighting with revolutionary new photoluminescent materials to increase reliability and performance over decades of use. 

This hybrid approach combines two established exit sign technologies in a single unit – LED and photoluminescence. During normal power conditions, the sign is illuminated with highly efficient LEDs. When the power goes out, a translucent exit stencil diffusor made of photoluminescent material provides the illumination. This is charged by the LEDs while electric power is provided to the sign.

Egress marking requirements often dictate the installation of exit signs in locations of low light conditions. This problem, coupled with energy conservation strategies such as occupancy sensors, can make it impossible to use photoluminescent signs and achieve code compliance. Recognizing this problem, leading emergency lighting manufacturers now offer advanced, dual technology options that utilize internal LEDs to “charge” the photoluminescent material, rather than relying on an external charging source.

This ensures the exit sign will be visible, no matter the power conditions. The increased reliability of this dual technology also has a significant side benefit – it eliminates the need for battery backup, reducing some of the costs related to testing, maintaining or replacing exit signs over time.

“The dual technology approach eliminates the need for backup power for the exit sign, whether through an internal battery or an external inverter or generator,” says Bill Lynch, president of Isolite, a manufacturer of specification-grade emergency lighting products. “This significantly increases reliability, simplifies maintenance and reduces total costs.”

Batteries typically have a lifespan of five to seven years before they must be replaced; less if damaged by corrosion, overheating and other issues.

The Battery Problem
Traditionally, exit signs include internal batteries to power the sign in case of power outage, yet batteries remain the single highest potential point of failure in these systems. Batteries typically have a lifespan of five to seven years before they must be replaced; less if damaged by corrosion, overheating and other issues.

Because it is a safety issue, exit signs must meet a number of standards from regulatory agencies. This includes, most notably, the NFPA 101 Life Safety Code (which requires a reliable source of light and at least 90 minutes of emergency light if the building’s power goes out) and UL 924, UL’s Standard for Safety of Emergency Lighting and Power Equipment.

To meet the requirements of these codes, exit signs with backup batteries much be tested every 30 days, a practice that typically involves sending a maintenance worker to climb a ladder and push a small button that confirms the batteries are still in good working order.

In reality, these guidelines are not always followed, so if the battery fails, it is often not known until an actual power outage. If the sign fails to illuminate fully, or at all, when it is most needed, it could constitute a major life safety issue and even potential liability.

Photoluminescent Signs
Standard photoluminescent exit signs have been in use for more than a decade. But, as a standalone technology, this technology has limitations.

For example, such signs require an activating light source to shine on them during all times of building occupancy. Often the available light is not sufficient to charge the photoluminescent material, particularly as energy efficient building standards such as California’s Title 24 lead to lights being dimmed or switched off more frequently when not in use.

When insufficient light is available, photoluminescent signs will fail to illuminate to the required standards and could pose a serious safety hazard.

Eliminating a reliance on batteries is also good for the environment, since both the manufacture and disposal of batteries involves toxic chemicals.

Better in Combination
The hybrid approach combines technologies to provide even more reliable illumination, whether the power is on or off. But designing such units turned out to be far more complex than simply putting both in a single architectural fixture.

One system that takes this unique design approach is Isolite’s hybrid LED photoluminescent exit sign, the Dual Tech 2.0. The sign utilizes internal LEDs to charge the photoluminescent material to ensure it is visible at all times at a 100 foot viewing distance for a minimum of 90 minutes – the normal standard for electric signs.

Since there is no battery to check on a monthly basis, the unit costs less to maintain and is expected to perform for 20 or more years. The Dual Tech 2.0 comes with OSHA, NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, NFPA 70-NEC, and UL 924 approvals.

Lynch says that special LEDs had to be manufactured to emit the specific wavelength of light required to optimally charge the photoluminescent material so that it would provide the proper illumination to meet code requirements.

Cost Savings
There are other benefits to this hybrid approach as well, which costs only nominally more than the traditional LED signs.

Compared with typical battery reliant, LED exit signs that use about 4 watts of power, the hybrid unit uses about half the power, less than 2 watts. This is due to a unique electronic driver circuit that provides current control and protection, which helps to ensure optimum LED efficiency and life.

Eliminating a reliance on batteries is also good for the environment, since both the manufacture and disposal of batteries involves toxic chemicals.

“While LED technology has improved to the point where it can last over 20 years, battery technology has not kept pace and has been the weak point in exit sign reliability and maintenance,” Lynch says. “Hybrid LED/photoluminescent technology eliminates this weakness and provides a more reliable operation for decades.”

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Del Williams is a technical writer based in Torrance, California.

GME Supply Co.

GME provides gear that helps keeps clients safe at high points.

By Alan Dorich

When people come to work at GME Supply Co., they are guided by the company’s culture, which values honesty, creativity, respect and integrity. “We just make sure that everybody every day uses that as their compass,” Vice President of Business Development Caleb Messer declares.

Preserving old-school relationships with new-school solutions

E-commerce solutions for the kitchen and bath industry are becoming a must-have for contractor suppliers. This comes with a mandate that combines the complexity of business-to-business with the ease of consumer simplicity. Ultimately, the right online solution can enhance, develop and support customer relationships. But it involves the relentless pursuit of the exact mix of data, technology, training and support. 

In the end, it preserves old-school relationships, adds a new-school solution for customers and becomes a tool to spur new business.

A Rich History of Relationships
Contractor supply has historically been a relationship business. Customers go to the supply house and talk face-to-face with staff about the products needed for each project. The staff, in turn, gets to truly know the customers, developing relationships that extend beyond simply serving as order-takers.

You can maintain that personal touch by tailoring the right online solutions to each customer. And you can create a platform for everyone involved in the transaction to get jobs done faster.

What Customers Want
Distributors are adapting to a changing buyer profile that expects online services, ranging from requesting and checking quotes, to reviewing local inventory and pricing in real time, to placing orders quickly for scheduled delivery.

More than half of suppliers are slowly investing in e-commerce systems and personnel. But that’s mostly to help current customers. Too many are not using e-commerce to win new business.

E-commerce is more than just creating a shopping cart. It’s a complete digital transformation.

A Complex Transaction
Customer needs differ across the industry, so regularly gaining their input is critical. It’s equally critical to gain input from every level of the supplier organization. At MORSCO, we listen closely to customers, as well as our inside and outside sales teams, operations, accounts payable and other internal stakeholders.

All these parties must help develop the solution and train customers afterward. It becomes part of everyday business, not just a one-time project.

Keep it Personal
Even with stakeholder input from all levels, e-commerce can seem, well, a little impersonal. But the personal, face-to-face nature of the transaction can be maintained with support from the staff at the local branches – particularly inside sales – and with communication from the local contractor.

Orders and any follow up should go through the local branch – not a call center – so customers know they are still dealing with suppliers at the local level that understand their markets and their needs.

The right online solution also frees up time for the outside sales staff. With advanced features, like easy-to-use custom pricing and quoting tools, the outside team can better support new and potential customers at all levels.

Instead of tracking down invoices and delivery slips, outside sales reps can leverage digital platforms in a way that sparks better conversations with customers and brings sophistication to a centuries-old industry.

Suppliers, meanwhile, can continue to serve as personal consultants, troubleshooters and more, all in a face-to-face capacity. That provides better, faster service, while maintaining an unmatched level of local, personal support for customers.

Benefits for Vendors
E-commerce sites can also serve as a vendor’s marketing tool, salesperson and cashier. Benefits include:

• An easy and fast search experience for consumers of products and inventory at the local level.
• Mobile solutions like phone and tablet access that give customers the ability to search and order products anywhere, anytime, including on a job site.
• The ability to increase customer reach and become the preferred online vendor for customers.
• Increased sales and loyalty with existing and new customers.

The Right Solutions
So what does it take to offer world class e-commerce? Solutions that:

• Help people get jobs done more efficiently, freeing talent for higher-value tasks. Self-service support functions like viewing and paying invoices can now be done online, much more quickly, and at the customer’s convenience.
• Allow access anywhere from desktop computers to job sites through mobile phones. Offer technical documents, catalogs, component and accessory information, as well as substitute items and recommendations.
• Include side-by-side input from customers and support from employees.
  Invest in training and data so the solutions themselves become an indispensable part of customers’ everyday lives. Training should be mandatory for all sales and branch staff, ensuring the face-to-face support can be seamless and add value.
• Offer support that involves local branches, which are critical for both your customers and your employees. Be sure all users know the types of support offered and that support tickets are addressed.
• Leverage technology – Power your digital customer experience with top-tier e-commerce, search, marketing automation, analytics, and data platforms. At MORSCO, this gives customers the 24/7 access they need, increases our ability to make complex online transactions that vary by a customer’s needs and creates the customer value that goes beyond the online shopping cart.

In the rush to offer e-commerce solutions to customers, we must remember the importance of the long-standing relationship nature of the business and ensure that any solution supports full integration of the old and the new. It’s an exciting time for those who can adapt.

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Darren Taylor is the chief marketing officer for MORSCO, a leading U.S. distributor of commercial and residential plumbing, waterworks and HVAC, with showrooms across the country.

EarthTronics HBU Series LED High Bay

EarthTronics, dedicated to developing innovative energy-efficient lighting products that provide a positive economic and environmental impact, introduces the HBU Series LED High Bay in 4000K and 5000K, offering a true “one-for-one” LED alternative for any commercial or industrial space requiring a high lumen light source for high ceilings.

The HBU Series delivers a higher lumen per watt output with world-class Seoul chips, Mean Well drivers and DLC Premium certification that meets even higher efficacy and lumen maintenance requirements than past high bay models. The lightweight design and the standard mounting hook with a safety screw enable quick installation and retrofitting of interior spaces. The fixtures are stamped from 96% pure aluminum in a unique design and size that maximizes cooling providing a long life product with high lumen maintenance.

The HBU Series LED High Bay features an IP65 wet location use rating for exposed environments and are shipped complete with a 6’ cord to enable easy installation. The LED driver is full functioning with 0-10V dimming on all models and is standard for 100 -277V operation. A 347-480V full functioning driver is available as well. The HBU series is DLC listed and provides a long-lasting, 50,000-hour life. The fixture can be easily installed to work on existing control systems. These fixtures perform in a variety of conditions and applications, such as warehouses, factories, hangars and gyms.

Expanding its range of capabilities, the HBU series is also adaptable with optional add-ons, including the 70° aluminum reflector and a 90° acrylic prismatic reflector.

The HBU Series LED High Bay fixtures from EarthTronics are Design Light Consortium (DLC) listed. They may be accepted for utility rebates in many markets. For more information about all EarthTronics products, visit www.earthtronics.com.

About EarthTronics
Founded in 2007, EarthTronics, Inc. is a Michigan based company located in Muskegon. Our products are sold under the EarthBulb brand name and are found in commercial buildings, hotels, restaurants, retail stores and residential homes. All EarthBulb lamps provide over 80% energy savings. EarthTronics energy efficient lighting solutions include LED light bulbs, linear LED and LED Fixtures. EarthBulb LED solutions are excellent for decorative and display lighting, downlights and general area lighting. EarthTronics covers it all. EarthTronics has warehousing in the United States and Canada. More information can be found at www.earthtronics.com.

New Linear One LED Fixtures from Acclaim Lighting

Acclaim Lighting, a leader in innovative and advanced lighting technology, introduces Linear One Exterior and Interior, linear, low profile, single-color, high-output LED fixtures designed to enhance creativity capabilities for wall grazing and cove applications.

Available in 1- and 4-foot sections, Acclaim Lighting meticulously crafted Linear One fixtures to install with no visible cables. Linear One provides end-to-end modular functionality that adapts to the design criteria. Linear One is available in 2700K, 3000K, 3500K and 4000K with at 80 and 90 CRI. Its wide range of beam angles include 10º x 10º, 30º x 30º, 60º x 60º, 100º x 100º, 10º x 25º, 10º x 40º, 10º x 70º, and 40º x 70º. Linear One even offers 1 to 100 percent dimming through its internal 0-10-volt driver or DMX dimming through an optional UDM (universal dimming module).

Assembled in Los Angeles, at Acclaim’s world headquarters, Linear One operates on a 100-277VAC power supply and consumes only 12 watts per foot. It features a robust aluminum, marine environment ready housing. Rated IP66 for wet locations, Linear One Exterior performs in -40º F to 131º F (-40º C to 55º C). Linear One Interior is IP40 rated for dry locations and performs in -4º F to 113º F (-20º C to 45º C). Both exterior and interior units maintain 70 percent of their lumens for 150,000 hours. The long-lasting Linear One has a five-year warranty. For more information about Linear One Exterior and Interior, contact Acclaim Lighting at 323-213-4626 or visit www.acclaimlighting.com.

About Acclaim Lighting
Acclaim Lighting, founded in 2003 in Los Angeles, Calif., made an immediate impact on the market with an impressive portfolio of innovative and advanced lighting technology, including high-performance controller units for entertainment and architectural lighting demands. The experienced and well-trained Acclaim team offers extensive consulting worldwide, leading to individual and distinctive lighting solutions. Profound technical knowledge combined with the ability to create reality for the customer’s vision is its expertise.

Interface Hospitality Custom Design Studio

Interface Hospitality unites custom design and luxury flooring for the hospitality industry. Designers can work directly with Interface Hospitality’s in-house design studio, a “D-to-D” interaction, to create custom flooring designed specifically to meet all of a hotel’s needs: from guest rooms, to lobbies, to all types of public spaces.

Interface Hospitality’s flooring possesses crucial performance attributes, such as easy maintenance and improved acoustics, and can be easily replaced, giving hotels the flexibility to update and change spaces as needed.

Whatever the design intent for a hospitality space may be, Interface Hospitality’s expert designers are ready to partner with customers to bring their vision to life.

More info at www.interfacehospitality.com.

Types of Insurance For Contractors

There are plenty of benefits that come with being a contractor. For one, your schedule is so much more flexible than if you were an employee. The money is also good most of the time.

Being a contractor, however, also means a lot of responsibilities. As a contractor, you have to be accountable for everything that happens in the areas where your team works. Anything that goes wrong on a project site from physical injuries to property damage, and a contractor will most likely be sued for claims by concerned parties.

These claims often make quite an impact on a contractor’s finances once granted, that is, if they have no contractors insurance of any kind. In fact, countless contractors have been left with no choice but to close down their business after paying for such claims from their pocket.

That’s why many contractors take the smartest path, and that’s taking out at least one type of insurance for contractors to protect their business. With the right insurance policy giving them coverage, contractors have one less thing to worry about when it comes to running their business.

Here are some of the types of insurance that are available to contractors today.

Commercial general liability insurance
When someone gets hurt or some property gets damaged on a work site, the contractor will always be held liable for them. Third parties can file a claim, and they will most likely pay. If they have a commercial general liability insurance policy, they will be covered up to a certain amount as stated in the policy. Any legal expenses incurred while the claims are being heard in court will also be covered by commercial general liability insurance.

Builders risk insurance
Builders risk insurance covers materials, tools, and equipment used in a construction project. Typically provided along with general liability insurance, builders risk insurance protects builders and contractors in case said materials, tools, and equipment are lost, stolen, or damaged the construction work is ongoing. Sub-contractors and equipment owners who are involved in the project can benefit greatly from this type of contractors insurance.

Automobile liability insurance
Trucks and other types of vehicles play a crucial role in any construction project, as they are responsible for transporting material, equipment, and laborers to a work site. Should any of these vehicles get involved in an incident at the project site that results in physical injury, property damage, or death, the contractor who owns those vehicles will likely find themselves at the receiving end of claims from concerned parties. Automobile liability insurance provides them coverage for such claims, including legal expenses.

Contractors pollution insurance
Any construction site always has the potential to violate certain environmental laws due to its capacity to pollute a given area, and there is no shortage of third parties who are willing to file suit against any contractor caught breaching such laws. Many contractors choose to purchase contractors pollution insurance policies to protect their business from such claims.

Roofers insurance
Roofing is widely considered as one of the riskiest contracting jobs out there. People could get hurt if a worker or a tool such as a hammer falls off the roof. The risk of property damage is also high, as a roofer, with one wrong step, could end up damaging parts of the roof that were otherwise in good condition.

A roofing contractor can protect himself or herself with roofers insurance, which is a type of general liability insurance. This type of insurance can take care of any physical injury or property damage claims made against a roofing contractor, as well as the legal costs that come with such claims.

Workers Compensation
Many types of insurance for contractors are mostly for the benefit of contractors themselves and the people who file claims. Workers compensation, however, covers a contractor’s employees as well. So if they get injured, contract diseases, or lose their lives in the middle of a project, the worker will be compensated accordingly. A typical workers compensation insurance policy covers medical treatment, rehabilitation costs, disability income, and compensation for the loved ones left behind by workers who died on the job. With workers compensation, contractors can also avoid being sued by employees who sustained injuries or by the families of deceased workers.

To protect themselves and their business, contractors must seriously consider getting any or all of the types of insurance enumerated above. Understandably, some contractors might think twice about getting contractors insurance because of the costs involved. However, spending for insurance coverage is a much better option than having to pay for claims, some of which might be big enough to drain their finances and shut their business down for good.

Insurance for contractors gives them more than just the ability to pay for claims. Contractors insurance also gives them peace of mind.

Hunter Douglas & ShimmerScreen

Hunter Douglas Hospitality is proud to serve as the exclusive distributor of Ball Chain’s ShimmerScreen® decorative metal ball chain curtains for the U.S. hotel and hospitality market.

A favorite of the architectural and design world since it was introduced in 2002, ShimmerScreen’s revolutionary style and functionality make it a perfect addition to Hunter Douglas Hospitality’s product offering. Custom fitted according to individual specifications and available in a variety of finishes, shapes, sizes, and colors, ShimmerScreen can be utilized to create stationary room dividers, area separators, partitions, window treatments, modern curtains, and more.

Key Features
Add elegance and mood to any space
Wide variety of styles, textures, shapes, sizes, and colors to match any inspiration
Divide space without introducing barriers
Stationary track system for custom projects including beaded curtains, room dividers, space partitions, wall coverings, window treatments, and more
Installations services available

Made in the USA. More information at:

http://www.hunterdouglashospitality.com/product_line/shimmerscreen/

 

Spiegelglass Construction Work on The Arch Café

Spiegelglass Construction Company is starting construction work on The Arch Café LLC, a brand new café proudly located at the base of the Gateway Arch. The 1,600 square-foot space can seat 28 in the café and an additional 96 in the common area. The Arch Café will offer farm-to-table food that includes everything from St. Louis ribs, hamburgers, paninis and St. Louis’s special toasted raviolis to vegetarian and gluten-free options. Visitors will also enjoy locally sourced foods, as well as organic produce. A coffee bar, vending machines and box lunches for groups will also be available.

According to Spiegelglass Construction, the Arch Café is expected to open on July 4th, 2018 during the city’s Independence Day celebrations. The Arch Café LLC’s parent company, Evelyn Hill Inc., operates the concessions at the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and at Fort McHenry National Monument in Baltimore.

“Spiegelglass Construction has strong roots in St. Louis – our business began here in 1904, the year of World’s Fair,” said Barry Spiegelglass, co-owner of Spiegelglass Construction Company. “It’s an incredible honor to now be constructing The Arch Café at the Gateway Arch more than 110 years after my grandfather opened Spiegelglass Construction nearby in downtown St. Louis.”

As part of several conservation initiatives, The Arch Café, LLC will institute a zero waste program where virtually all of the waste is either recycled or composted. Plastics, aluminum, glass and cardboard are recycled and food scraps, coffee cups, napkins and flatware are composted. The dining experience includes visitors learning about environmental practices they can incorporate at the park and at home.

“When we saw the bid opportunity for a concession stand at the Gateway Arch, we jumped at the chance,” said Evelyn Hill Inc. owner and president Bradford Hill. “We’re excited to apply what we’ve learned at the Statue of Liberty, Fort McHenry and Ellis Island and bring that success to the iconic Gateway Arch with The Arch Café.”

Evelyn Hill Inc., is also a third generation business having started at the Statue of Liberty 87 years ago in 1931. Over 4.5 million visitors pass through the doors to their gift shops, café’s, and outdoor stands. Evelyn Hill Inc., is the leader in the National Park Service for their zero waste initiatives. In 2010, they opened a LEED platinum structure on Liberty Island for the new gift shop. In addition, providing interpretive displays, signage, and living history is one of the company’s hallmarks. For more information, please visit www.cafearch.com.

Based in St. Louis, Spiegelglass Construction Company has been a family-owned general contractor since its inception in 1904. The company’s client portfolio includes national chains and independently-owned businesses, and spans industries including retail and foodservice. With a commercial construction focus, the company’s leaders combine a personal passion for turning their clients’ visions into reality with the know-how of a company that has been in business for more than 100 years. Rooted in integrity, Spiegelglass Construction stands above its peers with its personalized client service, unparalleled craftsmanship and a commitment to excellence. The company enjoys an honorable, well-deserved reputation among clients, subcontractors and business associates for closely adhering to the values that have sustained the business since 1904.

For more information, please visit www.spiegelglass-gc.com.

StructureTech NY

StructureTech NY solidifies its reputation in the industry for providing a total package by adding to workforce and services. 

By Janice Hoppe-Spiers, Senior Editor at Knighthouse Media

StructureTech NY has increased its manpower and expanded its portfolio of services to take advantage of more opportunities and larger site projects that have become available in New York City. “Our focus has been on delivering and everyone who comes to work here has to be the type of person who feels energized to make it happen,” CEO Gerry Cormican says. “We have super-motivated people that go out there and get the job done. Our workforce allows us to sit in front of clients and make aggressive commitments knowing we have a team that will back us.”

American Apparel’s new owner to open first store

American Apparel will open its first brick-and-mortar store under new owner Gildan, in a location on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles near the site of a former flagship of the brand. American Apparel closed all its stores after filing for Chapter 11, and the Canada-based manufacturer acquired the brand last year. Read the Ad Age story here

Macy’s expands off-price Backstage concept to Chicago

Macy’s will open Chicago’s first two off-price Backstage shops. Macy’s will open the off-price shops in about 100 stores this year. Read the Chicago Tribune story here

Transforming old train stations into hotels

In a new industry trend, historic train stations that have fallen into disrepair are being converted into hotels. Examples include Union Station Hotel in Nashville, Tenn., the St. Louis Union Station Hotel and The Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel in Tennessee, which was originally Terminal Station. Read the USA Today story here

Midas Hospitality Partners with Nexgen Hotels

Four Points Mt. Prospect recently opened at 2200 Elmhurst Rd. in Mt. Prospect, Illinois. The 50,000-square-foot three-story hotel includes 93 rooms and features an onsite traditional American cuisine restaurant, fitness and business centers, and an indoor pool and spa.

Nexgen Hotels purchased the hotel for $5,150,000 and made renovations totaling $3,200,000 to convert the hotel into a Four Points by Sheraton. Renovations included new guestrooms and bathrooms, an addition of a restaurant and bar, a fitness center expansion, new lobby, and exterior work.

Nexgen Hotels, a hotel development and management company, was the general contractor and developer. The company is working for the first time with Midas Hospitality, a premier hotel management group, which will manage the property. This is the first Four Points brand hotel for both Nexgen Hotels and Midas Hospitality.

“We decided to develop the Four Points brand because we really liked the direction Starwood Hotels was taking,” said Nexgen Hotels’ Principal Chris Patel. “Starwood’s Preferred Guest (SPG) loyalty program seems to be the brand millennial travelers are selecting, and we wanted to be associated with this demographic.” Patel added that Starwood Hotels, which is now Marriott, “was great to work with, and we look forward to developing other products with them.”

“Nexgen Hotels has both a philosophy and standards of operation that complement our company’s vision,” said Rob Willard, President and Principal. “We are excited to begin this partnership with their organization, as well as work with the Four Points brand for the very first time.”

Founded in 2006, Midas Hospitality has developed, opened and currently manages numerous properties including 30 hotels in 11 states. The company serves global brands including Hilton, IHG, Marriott, and Starwood. Midas Hospitality’s headquarters are located at 1804 Borman Circle Dr. in Maryland Heights, Mo. For more information, call (314) 692-0100 or visit http://www.midashospitality.com.

Nexgen Hotels, which was founded in 2008, currently owns and operates six hotels for various brands, as well as numerous restaurants including Bar Louie and Wahlburgers. Nexgen Hotels’ headquarters are located at 502 Pratt Ave. N in Schaumberg, Ill. For more information, call 847-592-6218 or visit http://www.nexgenhotels.com.

AeroTherm North America

Aero-Therm the innovative company that makes the unique Aero-Therm Exterior was selected as a winner in the Best of the IBS (International Builders Show) Awards category organized by the National Home Builders Association (NHBA). Aero-Therm emerged the winner of the award in the 75th anniversary of the NHBA show, beating other nominees to the award, thanks to the uniqueness and effectiveness of the innovation.

The International Builders Show ranks as one America’s most recognized gathering of builders, with more 1400 companies exhibiting their products in an area of more than 570,000 sq ft. With a panel of judges made up of leaders from the industry and a category featuring some of the best innovations in the building and construction sector in a long time, Aero-Therm emerging as a winner of the award is a feat worth celebrating.

European test results have shown great gains in thermal comfort, and results as high as 26 to 36% energy savings with the application of 1mm of Aero-Therm on perimeter surfaces of test houses. So, It was not surprising that Aero-Therm was a winner of one of the Best of the Show Awards.

Aero-Therm is changing the design and construction industry with the introduction of innovative and effective solutions and the nomination of its insulating coatings and its eventual winning of the award is a signal of great things to come from the company.
Created in Europe as a unique insulation solution designed for aging European buildings, Aero-Therm’s uniqueness and effectiveness is recognized by leaders in the Design and construction industry.

Aero-Therm created its ground-breaking products by using state of the art insulating materials aerogel and micron-sized glass bubbles filled with gas from the 3M company. Products include Aero-Therm Interior for Northern colder climates, Aero-Therm Exterior for Southern warmer climates, Aero-Therm Tile Adhesive for Northern climates, Aero-Therm Industry for commercial use, and Aero-therm Floor for sub-floor heating systems in Northern climates.

More information about Aero-Therm Innovative Coatings can be found on www.AeroTherm.us.

About Aero-Therm Innovative Coatings
Aero-Therm Innovative Coatings is a leader in the building and design industry. The company was founded to provide North America unique insulation solutions using state of the art thermal insulating materials.

Media Contact:
Aero-Therm Innovative Coatings (646) 472 – 5026 Info@aerotherm.us http://www.aerotherm.us/

AERO-THERM® THERMO-ACTIVE PLASTER & MOVIE MUSEUM

Location: Ratibořice, Czech Republic
Type of structure: Historic Building (Museum)
Date of implementation: January 2017
Application made by: THERMO INDUSTRY, a.s.

Problem:
With the new renovation of the historical building which is home to the Viktorka Movie Museum in Ratibořice, Czech Republic, an incorrect heating energy assessment for the project resulted in the building’s underfloor heating system being undersized by some 30%. Delivering necessary additional heating using surface mounted wall radiators did not appeal to the building’s owners, as this would have resulted in a loss of exhibition space.

Solution:
The owners of the building were offered an application of AERO-THERM® thermo-active plaster to the interiors of the external walls of the building on all above-ground floors, together with the top floor ceilings. (Total of 4628.5 square feet)

The application was made in two layers on newly repaired and shaded walls and ceiling, using a special low-pressure spraying device. Subsequently, the walls and ceilings were painted.

Result:
2 days after application, the temperature in the building was about 2-3 ° C higher without any changes to the heating system. The owner of the building is very satisfied with the results.

NAVAC, HVAC/R Vacuum Pump Mfc, Opens in NA

Supplying a wide array of industrial vacuum solutions and HVAC/R tools, NAVAC has officially launched North American operations in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. The company seeks to meet the need in the HVAC/R industry for user-friendly equipment and tools that are less complicated and save time – both crucial to busy technicians charged with conducting efficient yet exacting service.

NAVAC joins the North American HVAC/R market with ample resources. With more than 600 employees and sales in over 80 countries, the company is the world’s largest supplier of HVAC vacuum pumps in addition to a wide array of tools, gauges, charging machines and other industry-specific items. NAVAC also invests a significant share of its profit into R&D, lending to the type of innovation NAVAC will now showcase to the North American market.

Among NAVAC’s notable differentiators is the ease of use its line of equipment and tools offer to service technicians. Combined with a healthy economy, the industry’s labor shortage has placed a premium on efficiency as technicians’ service schedules get more and more inundated and demanding. Considering this, NAVAC’s products focus on making technicians’ jobs easier and faster without sacrificing accuracy.

This mantra of user-friendliness is showcased in NAVAC’s flagship product: Its NRP8Di and NRP6Di are the market’s first smart vacuum pumps. Featuring a digital control interface, the unit offers unsurpassed intuitiveness with features such as task reminder, extended evacuation for improved vacuum, and precision vacuum measurement technology with display.

An automatic solenoid valve prevents oil back flow and reduces vacuum decay during a power outage or accidental shut off. NAVAC vacuum pumps utilize an ultra-efficient DC Inverter – which, among other benefits, makes it approximately 20% lighter than other units in its class. Despite its weight the vacuum pump is nonetheless powerful, with twin cylinders ensuring best-in-class ultimate vacuum capabilities.

NAVAC also offers NRP8DV and NRP6DV analog version, DC Inverter Vacuum Pumps with built-in solenoid valve and mechanical vacuum gauge.

“The HVAC/R sector would dramatically benefit from the types of smart, more automated solutions that have revolutionized other industries,” said Stephen Rutherford, Director of HVAC Tools Business for NAVAC. “That is the principle upon which NAVAC enters the North American market, with a goal of steadily expanding our footprint through a product portfolio that makes technicians’ jobs more efficient, intuitive, and easy.”

About NAVAC
NAVAC is a global manufacturer that has dedicated over 20 years to the R&D and manufacturing of industrial vacuum solutions and HVAC/R tools. NAVAC draws upon its commitment to technical innovation, strong customer service and robust R&D allocation to deliver solutions offering unsurpassed efficiency, accuracy and ease of use.

Comprising a full lineup of tools, gauges, detectors, charger and vacuum pumps, among other solutions, NAVAC’s product portfolio is designed with one overarching concept in mind: user-friendliness. The company seeks to meet a need for simpler, lighter, faster solutions that expedite service without sacrificing accuracy.

For more information, www.navacglobal.com.

Navien’s 40 Years Worldwide & 12 Years in NA

On April 27th, Navien employees throughout the United States and Canada celebrated KD Navien’s 40 years of successful worldwide business operations and 12 years of successful operations in North America.

The rapidly growing company over the past twelve years has become an innovation leader in the North American plumbing and HVAC sector. Core products are tankless water heaters, combi-boilers and boilers sold exclusively through wholesale distribution.

In a letter to all Navien employees, Chairman Yeon-Ho Sohn extended his thanks and congratulations to all when he said, “It is more meaningful to realize the fact that the successes we have accomplished are not attributable to one person or a few small groups’ efforts, but every Navien family members’ efforts toward better product quality based on respective know-hows. I believe it would have been impossible for KD Navien to be where we are now, ‘Global KD’, without achieving the world best product quality by the continuous efforts from everyone that enabled us to successfully manufacture the top quality.”

For additional information on Navien Inc., visit NavienInc.com.

Navien is the recognized leader in condensing technology. The company name is derived from three words: Navigator / Energy / Environment, with a mission to provide customers with the ultimate comfortable living environment through energy efficient products by using innovative technology to create a healthier environment for our future generations. Navien tankless water heaters, combi-boilers and boilers are available in the United States and Canada through a selected network of wholesale distributors.
For more information, visit navieninc.com.