Jonathan Sweet

Seperate Yourself from the Competition Through Training

It wasn't that long ago that it was difficult to find training help in the concrete industry. That's certainly not the case today, with dozens of companies, associations and organizations lining up to offer information on techniques, business management, marketing and more.

Doug Bannister, The Stamp Store, demonstrates on a countertop during a training class. Getting trained should be the first step when starting in the countertop business.

Getting Started In Decorative Concrete Countertops

The things you need to know before jumping into the market.

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Steady Performer

Increased emphasis on efficiency and diversification have helped Van Wyks, Inc. succeed in a competitive market.

Editor's Letter: Be Realistic on Immigration

People need to be educated on the immigration issues.

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Surviving the Low Ball Terrorist

Dealing with the competitors and clients who make it tough to make money.

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Thinking Big Picture

Greg Randa saved his business and his life by getting out of the field and into the office.

Editor's Letter: Make Your Business Work for You

Figure out what you want to do with your business and put the people and systems in place to make it happen.

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Management Systems Create Smooth Operations

Industry leader Rocky Geans uses systems to let go without losing control.

The Market is Slowing, but Don't Panic

Concrete Concepts is now Concrete Contractor.

What Message are You Sending?

Think carefully about every part of the sales process.

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Conquering the "Dragon House"

Complicated foundation wins CFA Basement of the Year Award.

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ASCC Installs Hurricane Memorial

Members install hurricane memorial in New Orleans.

Editor's Letter: It's Not Just for the Little Guys

The simple fact is that decorative concrete is here to stay--and the applications are only getting bigger.

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Tight Quarters

A crew tackles a floor installation at a busy train station.

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Quick Starters

The Basement Guys has used systems, diversification and a dedication to service to rapidly grow the company.

Editor's Letter: Keep Your Lead Sources Diverse

Be certain you have enough sources of jobs so if a major builder or general contractor goes under, you're ready to deal with it.

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Beautiful and Durable

Low maintenance, aesthetics drive growth in decorative conrete floors.

Editor's Letter: Helping Out in New Orleans

The American Society of Concrete Contractors is doing their part to help the hurricane recovery in New Orleans.

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Midterm Report

Concrete Concepts talks with ASCC president Mike Schneider.

Cost Conscious

Price is driving the walk-behind saw market.

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Strong Forecast

Nonresidential growth expected; residential to fall off slightly from record 2005.

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Keeping A Step Ahead

Marketing, innovation have made Graf Concrete an industry leader.

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Aged To Perfection

Architectural concrete panels survive 40 years with little ill effect.

Editor's Letter: Cautious Optimism

As industry economists drag out their crystal balls for a look at 2006, it appears that it should be a pretty good year for concrete contractors.