Last year, Alex Mather<\/a>, Partner at Recrutement DMC<\/a>, connected with Denis Melanson<\/a>, the President of the Atlantic Building Supply Dealers Association (ABSDA)<\/a>. As one of ABSDA’s newest members, DMC Recruitment is gearing up to attend and exhibit at the association\u2019s annual Expo in Halifax this March. Their discussion touched on the critical role ABSDA plays in the Atlantic building materials market, the significance of this year\u2019s Expo celebrating its 70th anniversary, the challenges of attracting and retaining talent, and emerging opportunities shaping the industry. Keep reading for insights from this engaging conversation.<\/strong><\/p>\n The Atlantic Building Supply Dealers Association (ABSDA) has played a prominent role in the building materials industry in Atlantic Canada since its establishment in 1955. Over the years, the organization has adapted to the evolving needs of its members and the broader industry, focusing on two key areas: connection and education.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n “We connect building material sellers to buyers, encouraging that channel to network, build relationships, and respect the trade<\/em>,” explains Denis. Through various initiatives, including training programs, networking events, newsletters, and a social media presence, ABSDA works to keep its members informed and prepared to thrive in an industry that generates $5.5 billion annually in material sales.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n One of ABSDA\u2019s hallmark events is its annual Expo, which will celebrate its 70th anniversary this March. This year, DMC Recruitment will join the event for the first time as an exhibitor, participating in what has become a significant gathering for the industry.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cOur show fosters relationships and camaraderie<\/em>,\u201d Denis notes. \u201cIt\u2019s unique in that it still maintains a mix of networking and buying. Vendors come prepared with special deals, and business is still conducted during the event, even as it evolves into a platform for product promotion.<\/em>\u201d Last year\u2019s Expo in Halifax was a sold-out event<\/strong>, and with 95% of this year\u2019s floor plan already booked, anticipation is high for another successful year.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The industry\u2019s talent pipeline is facing a major shift, and ABSDA has made workforce development<\/strong> a key priority. Recognizing the increasing difficulty of attracting and retaining skilled professionals, the association introduced a Director of Workforce Development role to help members improve HR practices and address staffing challenges.<\/p>\n This initiative includes an annual HR conference and partnerships with programs like Chatter High, which introduces high school students to careers in the building materials industry.<\/p>\n These efforts come at a pivotal moment, as over 30% of the industry\u2019s workforce is nearing retirement age.<\/strong> To combat this, ABSDA is helping businesses modernize their HR strategies and build workplace cultures that appeal to the next generation.<\/p>\n Additionally, the Atlantic provinces are experiencing an influx of newcomers, with more immigrants and professionals relocating from urban centers, creating new opportunities to attract diverse talent into the industry.<\/p>\n As ABSDA celebrates its 70th anniversary, the association remains committed to strengthening industry connections and providing valuable education for the building materials sector in Atlantic Canada.<\/p>\n For those new to the industry or region, getting involved with ABSDA\u2014whether through attending events, engaging on social media<\/a>, or connecting with the association directly<\/a>\u2014can open doors to key industry insights and opportunities.<\/p>\nThe Role of ABSDA in Atlantic Canada’s Building Materials Industry<\/h3>\n
Celebrating 70 Years of Industry Engagement<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n
Addressing Workforce Development<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n
Looking Ahead<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n