A Review of 2009

Progress Report
Overall, the NLA has had a great year. Considering it has experienced the some of the same financial challenges as many other businesses, these difficulties have lead to setting some very important goals. Now as you submit your renewal dues payment for 2010, NLA would like to give you a progress report on some of the changes in store for members in the upcoming year.

Tradeshows
After a bit of a decline in the NLA Expo in 2009 the Association has accepted the challenge from attendees to make some changes. As a result, the 2010 show was being moved to Grand Casino Hinckley Conference Center in Hinckley, MN and this convention received very high praise. The Iowa and Nebraska Conventions both experienced moderate gains from the previous year and the goal is to build on this success with more of the same. As a benefit of membership, all renewing members will receive free admission into all shows.

Looking Toward the Future
The NLA Board has challenged the Association to reach out to the next generation of lumber industry leaders. Now, members are buzzing with the creation of three chapters of “Future Lumber Leaders” where up-and-coming leaders from member properties are getting together to learn from each other and such dynamic Speakers as John Gagliardi, Dan Fessler and Lynn Allendorf. The next generation of leaders are sure to come up with some great new perspectives and ideas about running lumber businesses in the future.

Services addressing Industry Needs
After numerous conversations with members and some very excited vendor partners, the NLA has formed partnerships to address some pressing needs in the areas of Accounts Receivable Collections (through AmerAssist) and in Electronic Data Back-up (through ITS). It is also close to being able to offer an Email Marketing service to members ready to communicate with customers electronically. These services will assist in the member generated goals of “Improving Cash-Flow” and “Utilizing Technology.”

We appreciate all of the conversations we have with members who help NLA develop these initiatives and look forward to many more discussions. If you would like to offer your input please do not hesitate to call me directly at (800) 896-5130 or any of our other great staff at (888) 544-6822.

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