DRAKE'S PAINT & SUPPLIES
For cousins Dan and John Drake, painting is in their blood
PAINT PANEL
Insights & innovations from ALLPRO members
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
Supplying the film industry can be a lucrative and exciting niche
NETWORKING WITH NEXTGEN
Get to know Frank Machado Jr., general manager, multi-instrumentalist, and NextGen retail member
MICHAEL BEAUDOIN
Executive Vice President
AS IN PAST YEARS, ALLPRO REMAINS committed to investing in the group's future, ensuring even greater value for its stakeholders. Like all businesses, we must be strategic in how we allocate resources to maximize long-term benefits. There are several areas of investment that you can look forward to that will have an impact this year.
Technology is the driving force in most companies and ALLPRO is no exception. In late Q1, we will launch our new updated distribution website, which will be a major improvement over the current version. The biggest new feature will allow members to quickly place a distribution order by uploading an Excel file. The intent is to enable you to place an order from your ERP system, format it in Excel, and then upload it into our new site. This feature exists with many of the B2B sites of our largest suppliers, providing a fast and efficient ordering process. The new site will feature a modern tile-based layout, rather than lists, enhanced search functions, and an overall contemporary design. Alongside the website update, we will also launch a new mobile ordering app with enhanced scanning capabilities and the ability to access all features of the
KAZALAS PAINT SUPPLIES
This family-owned business embodies the resilience & spirit of New York
website on your phone. The new features will make purchasing from the distribution centers easier than ever.
On the topic of warehouses, we plan to expand the Southeast distribution center hopefully by the third quarter. This expansion requires relocating the ALLPRO offices, and we are actively seeking suitable office space relatively near the existing facility. The goal is to be in an office building that is better protected from flooding and has a stable power supply. Our existing office is very near the coast, and it is the first to be evacuated when there is a hurricane, which seems to be often.
By relocating, we will free up 5,000 square feet of space for the warehouse, allowing us to increase the number of products available to members. This will include replacing some of our existing racks with more holding capacity. The additional space will bring this warehouse in line with the Midwest distribution center at approximately 20,000 square feet. The Northeast and West Coast distribution centers have approximately 40,000 square feet each, totaling 120,000 square feet of warehouse space with more than $8 million in inventory serving the group.
At the Fall Show, we also announced a major investment in creating a stronger brand for independent paint dealers and the ALLPRO brand. We produced a high-quality commercial, now airing across multiple online platforms. This commercial is just the beginning – soon, members will be able to customize it with their own content and use it in their local markets.
Additionally, we have doubled the budget for advertising ALLPRO-branded products through Google search ads, social media promotions, and other advertising targeting contractors. We also recently participated in the first Painting Contractors Association (PCA) show, where we had a booth presenting the ALLPRO brand to contractors and promoting the benefits of shopping at independent paint stores. These efforts represent just the first phase of a
long-term commitment to expand our end-user marketing initiatives.
The largest and most exciting investment this year will be in the ALLPRO fall show in Dublin, Ireland – creating a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience for ALLPRO members and suppliers alike. Careful planning and coordination will be essential, given the strong response to our survey regarding attendance. I am confident that this will be a memorable experience for all.
Each of the above investments are designed to enhance the independent channel and strengthen the value ALLPRO brings to its stakeholders. The best investment will always be in our future.
AllPro Mustang sprayers are a high quality, proprietary brand manufactured by industry-leading Graco. This strategic partnership offers competitive prices and promotional offers, delivering exceptional ROI for AllPro’s members. Support the spray equipment manufacturer that supports you. Purchase AllPro Mustang and Graco Spray Equipment.
If you are involved in a community event, special project, charity, or are celebrating a milestone, please share your news with Susie Fontana at susie.fontana@allprocorp.com
BOARD PRESIDENT
Scott Herling
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Mike Beaudoin
VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING
Scott Morath
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Jonathan Garrett
MARKETING MANAGER
Susie Fontana
We are a bimonthly publication dedicated to strengthening the ALLPRO community with relevant stories and news. Your suggestions, opinions, and feedback are encouraged.
ON THE COVER:
Kazalas Paint Supplies by Aubrey James Projects
HOW TO REACH US
Write to us at ALLPRO Corporation 4946 Joanne Kearney Blvd., Tampa, FL 33619
Or contact us at: 813.628.4800 | allpro@allprocorp.com
All publishing services provided by Gallon Creative www.galloncreative.com
AUBUCHON HARDWARE has opened three new stores, located in Cambridge, NY, Cobleskill, NY, and Rutland, VT; HIS PAINT has opened a new store in Amarillo, TX; STEVENS PAINT & BLINDS will be opening their 3rd store, located in Marathon, FL; MALLORY PAINT STORE will be opening their 31st store, located in Vancouver, WA; MANTA PAINTS will be opening their 3rd store, located in Westminster, CA; and RICCIARDI BROTHERS OF SOUTH JERSEY will be opening a new store located in Wildwood, NJ.
n the heart of The Big Apple, where cultures come together and the city never sleeps, sits a paint store that has been on the scene as a trusted name for more than 50 years.
The story of Kazalas Paint Supplies Inc. began in 1972, when Demetrios Kazalas, a skilled painter with a deep passion for his craft, decided to open his own paint store. With the help of his father, Christos, and his wife, Efie, the family-run business took its first steps. The early days were challenging, with business growing at a slow pace.
“Some days, the store would sell only a single quart of paint,” says John Kazalas, current co-owner alongside his brother, Chris Kazalas. “Despite the challenges, his wife and father steadfastly kept the store running while Demetrios took on other jobs to support them.”
Through hard work and perseverance, the business gradually expanded, earning a reputation for reliability and exceptional service. What started as a small, family-operated shop became a cornerstone of the Jackson Heights community, a place where customers knew they could count on expert advice and top-tier products.
Today, the Kazalas brothers are continuing their family’s legacy, providing expert service, high-quality paint products, including a wide range of Benjamin Moore paint, and a deep-rooted commitment to the local community – a vibrant and diverse neighborhood known for its rich cultural tapestry.
According to John, the store fosters a strong connection with the neighborhood through active engagement, offering expert advice and dependable products. With a focus on integrity, sustainability, and stability, it has become a lasting, reliable presence that contributes to both the community and its growth.
Part of this commitment is the staff themselves, who “are dedicated and personable, always going the extra mile to help customers,” says John. “They take pride in offering individualized advice, helping clients choose the right products for their projects and ensuring everyone feels valued.”
One of the key elements that differentiate Kazalas Paint Supplies from large chain stores is its emphasis on personalized service. Customers are not just transactions; they are valued members of the extended Kazalas Paint Supplies family. Whether a professional contractor or a first-time DIY painter, each customer receives recommendations, inspiration, support and guidance to ensure the success of their projects.
“Our team takes the time to build genuine relationships with the customers, offering tailored advice and recommendations based on individual needs,” John says.
Meeting the needs of their diverse clients means opening the shop at 6:30 a.m., checking inventory, greeting customers, and assisting with product selection.
Throughout the day, they manage phone inquiries, collaborate with suppliers, and ensure smooth business operations. As the day winds down, the team restocks shelves and reflects on customer interactions, always striving to uphold their high standards of service and quality.
Much of this quality comes by way of their membership in ALLPRO. Since joining in 2017, Kazalas Paint Supplies has leveraged the benefits of the buying group to stay competitive in the market. “As a small business, ALLPRO has given us the opportunity to have greater purchasing power, resulting in better prices,” says John. “This allows us to compete with the ‘big guys’ while offering top-quality service to our valued customers.”
Looking ahead, John and Chris are focused on strengthening Kazalas Paint Supplies’ online presence and enhancing their digital footprint to reach more customers and connect with their community.
In a city known for its hustle and bustle, where a constant flow of people and activity defines the landscape, this family-owned business embodies the resilience and spirit of New York. Staying true to the values instilled by Demetrios, Kazalas Paint Supplies remains dedicated to its roots: providing expert service and high-quality paint products while fostering strong ties within the vibrant and diverse neighborhood.
f anyone knows the power and possibilities of a great can of paint, it’s a painter. Which is why Drake’s Paint & Supply has been a successful staple in Oregon’s Rogue Valley for more than four decades.
The Drake family’s involvement in the painting industry dates back to the early ‘60s, with brothers Rusty, Ron, and Rick following in the footsteps of four generations of painters, learning the craft as apprentices.
“It’s not merely because they picked up a brush one day and decided to become painters; it’s because painting is in our blood,” says Dan Drake, current co-owner along with his cousin, John Drake. “They received proper training from seasoned professionals, a tradition passed down through the ages.”
In 1984, the Drake brothers ventured into the world of retail paint supply after their client insisted on using Benjamin Moore paint for their project, claiming it was the best in the industry. “Without realizing it, this single customer’s request would reshape not only their future but also the future of all of us,” John says, explaining that they’d make a 1.5-hour journey to Klamath Falls to procure Benjamin Moore paint for their projects.
Later that year, they seized the opportunity to bring Benjamin Moore directly to Medford, Oregon, purchasing Baker’s Paint and transforming it into Drake’s Paint & Supply, officially opening their doors with a mission to provide superior products and service to their customers.
The business was built upon the expertise and craftsmanship passed down through generations, and it didn’t take long for the store to gain a reputation for its quality and customer care. Eight years after the store’s founding, the next generation – Dan and John – began learning the ropes, ensuring that the business’s core values would continue to guide its future.
“These values are the essence of Drake’s Paint & Supply, the principles that guide us, and the legacy we’re proud to uphold,” shares Dan.
“After 40 years, our commitment to these values remains unwavering: integrity, honesty, respect, and love. These are the values we want to be known for, the values we aim to continue sharing and spreading as we grow and evolve.”
In 1995, Dan left the family business to work for Tommy’s Paint Pot, another well-respected paint retailer in the Willamette Valley. There, he learned the intricacies of running a non-family business under the mentorship of Stan Mohr and later Craig Bond, who played an instrumental role in shaping the store’s success.
In July 2024, Dan and John took over the operation of Tommy’s Paint Pot, bringing it into the Drake’s Paint family. For Dan, this transition was particularly meaningful, as it marked a return to the store where he had
What is the most popular paint color sold in your store?
Benjamin Moore, Revere Pewter HC-172 – it’s still a customer favorite!
What can't you live without?
Our people – our employees and customers are like family.
What's your favorite thing about living in Oregon?
The mild climate and the endless outdoor activities.
When you're not at work, what can we find you doing?
Spending time outdoors, enjoying everything Oregon has to offer.
What's on the horizon for Drake's Paint & Supply?
Strengthening our current stores and looking for future expansion opportunities, particularly in the Eugene market.
spent seven years learning the business. Today, he and John continue to honor Craig Bond’s memory by upholding the same commitment to integrity, excellence, and community service.
In addition to Tommy’s Paint Pot, Dan and John operate three Drake’s Paint & Supply locations in Medford and Grant’s Pass, serving a diverse customer base in a competitive market. The company differentiates itself through its personalized service, strong relationships, and deep-rooted commitment to the communities it serves.
“We are the only independently owned paint store,” says Dan. “We offer quality and more personalized service. We truly care for our customers. We spend more time with our customers than we spend with a lot of our family. And so, we’ve become very close with our customers and we do all that we can to help them be successful.”
Being the only independently owned paint retailer in the area, Drake’s Paint & Supply provides a unique level of service that larger corporations often struggle to match. Their emphasis on quality products and building strong customer relationships has cemented their reputation as a trusted partner for painters, contractors, and homeowners.
In 2018, Drake’s Paint & Supply joined ALLPRO, a decision that significantly impacted the company’s growth. The journey to joining ALLPRO was a long one, beginning with initial discussions in 2006. However, due to the economic downturn, the decision was put on hold until the timing was right.
Since joining, ALLPRO has provided valuable resources that have contributed to the company’s continued success, helping Drake’s Paint & Supply navigate industry challenges and expand its reach.
“I consider ALLPRO to be a key strategic partner,” Dan says. “They’ve helped us source products, problem-solve, and connect with a network of industry professionals who have experienced many of the same challenges. The support from ALLPRO has played a big role in our growth.”
As Drake’s Paint & Supply moves through 2025, the company is focused on solidifying its operations across its four locations and ensuring seamless integration between the stores. With the expansion into Eugene through Tommy’s Paint Pot, new opportunities for growth have emerged.
“In the next couple of years, we’ll be working on strengthening our foundation,” Dan explains. “Once we’ve got our processes and systems in place, we’ll look at expanding further in the Eugene market.”
The company remains committed to upholding its core values while adapting to industry changes and customer needs. As they continue to honor their legacy, their focus remains on providing top-tier products, exceptional service, and fostering strong relationships with employees, customers, and vendors.
Walter McDermott grew up in his family’s paint store, stocking shelves before he was even a teenager. Though he briefly pursued a different path in college, life’s unexpected turns brought him back to the business his father and grandfather built. Today, he oversees McDermott Paint & Wallpaper with the same dedication to quality and community that has defined his family’s legacy. We spoke with McDermott about his journey, the evolution of the paint business, and his passion for building connections within ALLPRO.
ALLPRO INDEPENDENT: WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB?
Walter Mcdermott:
Basically, the paint industry. It’s a family-run operation started by my father and grandfather. I began working there at the age of 11 or 12. My mother handled bookkeeping, so I was always in the store, stocking shelves and helping out wherever I could.
WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND AND WHAT LED YOU TO WHERE YOU ARE TODAY?
WM: I went to college in Jacksonville, Florida, studying hotel management. While I was there, I was on the rowing crew and loved it. Unfortunately, I tore ligaments and cartilage in my knee, which required surgery. I came back to Connecticut for the procedure and started working part-time at the store again. When I returned to Jacksonville, I did landscaping during the summer. It was grueling in the Florida heat, and during that time, my father had a stroke. He asked me to come back to help out at the store. What started as a shortterm commitment turned into a career.
DO YOU STILL ROW?
WM: I would love to, but I’d need knee replacements first. It was such a rewarding experience – I was in the best shape of my life, traveling and competing with an amazing group of people.
WHAT IS YOUR POSITION AT MCDERMOTT PAINT & WALLPAPER, AND WHAT DOES A DAY ON THE JOB LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?
WM: I’m the owner. My day usually starts at 6 a.m. I open the store, unload trucks, and handle deliveries. Once the team arrives, we put everything away. From there, it’s non-stop – helping customers, visiting job sites, solving contractors’ problems, and running the day-to-day operations. I’m also the bookkeeper, accounts payable/receivable, and building maintenance person, since we own the building.
WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY AND THE KEY TO YOUR SUCCESS?
WM: Our motto is, “Paint is our business, not our sideline.” We’re strictly focused on being a dedicated paint retailer. Success comes from our commitment to quality and customer service. Our community trusts us because we’ve stayed true to those principles.
WHAT IS A CAREER-RELATED OR STORE GOAL YOU’RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?
WM: The goal is always to remain profitable, especially given all the challenges businesses have faced – from the Great Recession to the pandemic. It’s about staying resilient and adapting to whatever comes next.
TELL US ABOUT MCDERMOTT PAINT’S HISTORY WITH ALLPRO. WHEN DID YOU JOIN?
WM: We joined ALLPRO in 2007, after the merger with MidSouth. We’d been with Mid-South since 1995. The merger was a great move, bringing so many benefits and positive changes for everyone involved.
HOW HAS YOUR INVOLVEMENT IN ALLPRO BENEFITED YOUR BUSINESS?
WM: Being part of ALLPRO has been incredibly beneficial. In our area, there are several ALLPRO dealers, and we help each other out with products, advice, and support. The real competition isn’t other ALLPRO members – it’s the big-box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s. Working together strengthens all of us.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE ALLPRO-BRANDED PRODUCT?
WM: We carry as many ALLPRO products as we can. Having that consistent branding across multiple stores in the area builds trust with customers. They see the label and know it’s a product they can rely on.
HAVE YOU BUILT MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH THE PAINT BUSINESS?
WM: Absolutely. I’ve connected with dealers across the country, from Florida to New England. The ALLPRO shows are a great opportunity to share ideas and learn what’s working in other markets. It’s all about collaboration and support.
HOW HAS YOUR MAJOR PAINT MANUFACTURER SUPPORTED YOUR BUSINESS?
WM: Benjamin Moore has become much more supportive in recent years. They’ve shifted from pushing unnecessary product lines to understanding our market’s needs. In Greenwich, our customers value high-quality paint that reduces labor costs. Benjamin Moore recognizes that and supports us accordingly.
WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR COMMUNITY?
WM: Greenwich is a high-end, waterfront town on Long Island Sound. We don’t have major manufacturing – it’s all about homeowners who value quality over cost. Our customers appreciate products that deliver lasting results.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?
WM: You’ll find me out on a boat.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PAINT COLOR?
WM: It has to be Mellow Yellow 2020-50 from a Benjamin Moore ad campaign 12 years ago. Customers loved the name, even though the color was incredibly bright. It brought so many people into the store.
Favorite thing about Connecticut? The seasons.
Night on the town or evening in? Night on the town.
Best advice ever received? Don't listen to people – go with your gut.
Last book you read or show you watched? Probably a football game.
Baseball or football? Football.
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Independent paint retailers are always adapting – whether it’s finding new ways to recruit staff, implementing technology for customer communication, or reducing costly mistints. In this issue, we asked ALLPRO members to share their strategies on key business topics, as well as a few lighthearted insights into their favorite books, shows, and music. Here’s what they had to say:
“We use QuickBooks Time with iPads in each store. Employees clock in and out with a photo verification.”
– Mike Gleason Jr., Gleco Paint
“We use QuickBooks Time, where employees can clock in/out on their phones, PC, or iPad. When clocking in/out on their phone, it also tracks location.” – Sean Paul, Dugan's
“The POS system we use was written by my dad, Tim Bowling, and our staff clock in and out on our POS. It tracks their hours worked and PTO.” – Amy Coleman, Hoover Paint Store
“We use OnTheClock time clock for clocking in and out!”
– Sarah Ross, Mallory Paint Store
“We operate on an old-fashioned trust system. Our team is great about being upfront when they’re running late or staying late – we pay overtime, so honesty is in everyone’s best interest.”
– Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“We use a program called Homebase that shows employees their schedule as well as when they clock in and out of their shifts.”
– Michael Keane, Burlington Design Center
“We do not require our staff to clock in and out as all of our employees are salaried. We do track their sick/vacation time by having them fill out a request form and once it is approved, we then send it to the bookkeeper to enter into the system to reflect on their paystubs.”
– Kim Mowbray, The Paint Center
“We have employees who know people looking for a career change. These are people our employees vouch for, which will hopefully lead to a hardworking, trustworthy workforce.” – Brandon Donahue, Westerly Paints Inc.
“2025 is our ‘pause and perfect’ year for recruiting. We’re focusing on honing our team and streamlining processes instead of bringing in new hires.”
– Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“This year we are internally focused – investing in our current team members and creating a great working environment. Apparently, word gets around! Between Indeed and our website career form, we’ve had a high volume of applicants, many of which are referrals.”
– Sarah Ross, Mallory Paint Store
“We’ve tried many different ways to attract personnel and so far, our most effective way has been through word-ofmouth.” – Michael Keane, Burlington Design Center
“We are not actively recruiting for any key positions at this time. We have very low turnover, which I believe is a testament to our overall workplace environment. With that said, if the right person comes along that can help the business, I would absolutely try to recruit them.” – Sean Paul, Dugan’s
“We offer a $300 referral bonus to any staff or customer who refers us an employee that we hire and works for us for at least 60 days. A majority of our most successful hires have been referred to us by a customer or fellow employee.”
– Amy Coleman, Hoover Paint Store
“We do not use text communications. We use Constant Contact for email and CallMultiplier for phone call-based audio messages.”
– Mike Gleason Jr., Gleco Paint
“Yes, we use Prokeep through a partnership with Broadlume, our website builder. But the Prokeep and Broadlume partnership is ending, so we are [researching] a replacement.”
– Sean Paul, Dugan’s
“Yes, I’ve been using EZ Texting for mass messaging about events, store closures, and promotions. However, I’m currently learning Constant Contact for email marketing, and they have a text communication add-on that I’ll look into when it’s time for me to renew my EZ Texting account.” – Amy Coleman, Hoover Paint Store
“Yes, we use the platform EZ Texting to communicate with our contractors. This is essential in letting them know what promotions we have going on as well as any upcoming events.”
– Michael Keane, Burlington Design Center
“We use Prokeep, and it’s been a game-changer. It allows us to text our clients and vice versa while ensuring that our team maintains a healthy work-life balance. No after-hours texts ending in ‘urgent,’ thank you very much!”
– Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“We track mistints monthly and review them during employee evaluations. We also enforce a ‘no talking’ policy when using a tinter.” – Mike Gleason Jr., Gleco Paint
“Our secret weapon? Training our team to do a final ‘read-and-match’ check. They doublecheck the ticket and screen before clicking that tint button. It’s simple and effective!”
– Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“Scanning UPC codes have helped us reduce mistints. Also, using Rundoo to send and receive formu las has helped a lot, especially with manual dispense formulas. Instead of entering each colorant and amount of tint, we can simply enter the code on Rundoo, which will pull off the formula and product it was made in. Then we can change the can size if needed, eliminating the risk of a mathematical error.”
– Brandon Donahue, Westerly Paints Inc.
“We attempt to reduce mistints by training staff from the time they start using Accutinter/Color Eye. Training is done from the very first day on the job. The new employee is set up to work with the staff that has shown expertise in color matching and in running the Accutinter/Color Eye so that the new employee has the best training up front. If an employee starts to make a significant number of mistints then additional training is given, as well as talking with the employee to see what their thoughts are on why they believe this is happening. There are times that computerized machines are not the method that can be used and then the employee that has the greatest expertise in this area of matching colors is utilized to create the match. Keeping the spectrophotometer calibrated also reduces the number of mistints the store has.” – Kim Mowbray, The Paint Center
“We reduce mistints by having a standard operating procedure for tinting paint. This includes circling the base on the can prior to tinting, verifying color name and number, always checking the color against the fan deck or match card, and avoiding the barcode bypass when tinting paint.” – Sarah Ross, Mallory Paint Store
“Yes, we have a 90-day probationary period for new staff. This has traditionally worked out as 90 days is more than enough time to know if the employee will be a good fit or not.” – Sean Paul, Dugan’s
“Yes. We have a 60-day trial period. We try to sit down with new hire after 30 days to give them feedback on their progress. We have a follow-up meeting after 60 days. If the employee doesn’t show improvement from the 30 to 60-day mark, then we let them go.” – Amy Coleman, Hoover Paint Store
“No, we don’t do probationary periods. We’re a performance-based company. If someone isn’t hitting the mark and we’ve exhausted all resources to help, we both know it’s time to part ways.” – Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“Yes, we implement a 45-day probationary period for each new member of the team to ensure that they are the right fit with the rest of our team.” – Michael Keane, Burlington Design Center
“We sell premium paint –it makes sense that our customers would want premium sundries as well! We teach our staff that selling sundries is a service. Helping our customers get everything they need during a one-stop shopping experience will keep them from visiting box stores and buying the wrong tools there.”
– Sarah Ross, Mallory Paint Store
“We have a policy to sell the customer everything they need, and nothing they don’t. We feel our paint is only enhanced by the use of our sundries, so that same philosophy empowers our staff to sell the best sundry for the customer’s project. We also have done demo days with the staff where we bring in competitors’ sundries so the staff can see the difference in the quality of our products.” – Mike Gleason Jr., Gleco Paint
“When a customer purchases paint, we ask them if they need any brushes or rollers. We also spend time with the customer, showing them the different options and their benefits.”
– Brandon Donahue, Westerly Paints Inc.
“Motivation is key! We tie our annual goals to a 20% income increase for the team. It’s amazing how focused one can get with that kind of reward on the horizon.”
– Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“We track sundries sold by location and as a percentage of total sales. Each store has a slightly different metric, but we track it and discuss it with managers and sales staff. When we find our tool/sundry sales are a lower percentage than expected, we can quickly find out where and why and address it. Could be price, could be a salesperson not asking for the sale, but either way, we can pivot and make it a priority.”
– Sean Paul, Dugan’s
“Our staff is really good about asking the customer about any sundries that they may need when they come in rather than just simply asking what paint is needed. Staff are always inquiring about what the customer’s project is and then they will suggest other items to help complete the project with greater efficiency. The staff really encourages themselves to do this because they have a monthly sales incentive.”
– Kim Mowbray, The Paint Center
“We export customer data from our POS into a CRM system. Once you map the import into your CRM system, it is easy. The set up is the hardest part.” – Mike Gleason Jr., Gleco Paint
“We are building our customer database by putting every customer in the computer when they come in to make a purchase. Using their phone number as an account number, we have been able to keep track of customers’ colors and which room they are being used in.”
– Brandon Donahue, Westerly Paints Inc.
“We’ve been building an extensive customer database using Décor (from Epicor) reporting features.” – Sarah Ross, Mallory Paint Store
“We’re in rebuild mode and have partnered with Rundoo to help us strengthen and streamline our customer base. Additionally, we’re not afraid to part ways with clients who don’t align with our values.”
– Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“Yes. Almost every customer is recorded. Very few are recorded under ‘cash customer.’ We always ask for phone number, email, and address.”
– Sean Paul, Dugan’s
“Anytime someone buys tinted product, we set up an account (customer profile) in our operating system. Since we’ve been stressing the importance of setting up customer accounts, about 92% of our sales are run through individual customer accounts and only 8% of sales are run under a generic account. We’ve also had a lot of success running digital ads for free color sample(s) in exchange for collecting customer signups for our email marketing.” – Amy Coleman, Hoover Paint Store
“Back in March, we switched to Rundoo POS system. This system seems to be more user-friendly and efficient than the previous POS system. We use this system to track products being sold to certain customers, at certain times of the year, and quantities. It also allows us to accurately see the history of a customer. This is a great check and balance for our staff so that we are not giving the customer the wrong product or the wrong color of paint.” – Kim Mowbray, The Paint Center
“A lot of Texas country and Christian music.”
– Kim Mowbray, The Paint Center
“‘Fire’ by Waxahatchee – it just feels right.”
– Sarah Ross, Mallory Paint Store
“‘Let’s stay together!’ Can’t ever get away from the classics!”
– Michael Keane, Burlington Design Center
“‘Start the Day Off Right’ playlist curated by Apple Music.”
– Sean Paul, Dugan’s
“Teddy Swims – his voice is pure magic, and he hits all the feels.”
– Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“Eminem & Billy Joel.”
– Brandon Donahue, Westerly Paints Inc.
“It’s my new Google, but sassier and infinitely more efficient.”
– Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“Fantastic when creating complex formulas in Excel – just describe what you are trying to do and it usually will give you the correct answer.”
– Mike Gleason Jr., Gleco Paint
“Yes, I use AI most days. I will often write an outline of what I want to discuss or think about and then have ChatGPT refine it. Or I will write an email to a customer and then copy and paste into ChatGPT and ask it to clean up the email or make it more ‘friendly.’ I have also used it to compare and contrast contracts and other documents.” – Sean Paul, Dugan's
“No, I don’t use ChatGPT. While it offers a lot of solutions which are valuable to certain industries, I really like organic, human solutions and try to stay away from AI.”
– Sarah Ross, Mallory Paint Store
“Yes, we use ChatGPT and other AI tools to help us be as efficient as possible. In the past, this has involved helping us find a new location.”
– Michael Keane, Burlington Design Center
“I just picked up ‘Murder on the Nile’ by Agatha Christie and plan to devour it en route to Lisbon. Mystery + travel = perfection… plus champagne!” – Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“‘Nudge (Final Edition)’ by Richard H. Thaler.”
– Sean Paul, Dugan’s
“Currently I am reading ‘The Perilous Fight’ by Dr. Ben Carson.”
– Kim Mowbray, The Paint Center
“‘The One Minute Manager’ – simple tools for big results.”
– Sarah Ross, Mallory Paint Store
“ I’m not ashamed to say I’m on my third rewatch of ‘Gossip Girl.’ XOXO.”
– Brandon Donahue, Westerly Paints Inc.
“If you haven’t seen ‘You’ on Netflix, you’re missing out – dark, hilarious, and highly bingeable.”
– Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“‘Building Off the Grid’ on Amazon Prime –some really creative ideas!”
– Sarah Ross, Mallory Paint Store
“My friend Sarah Goldsborough’s podcast, ‘Mommy, You Said the F-Word,’ is an absolute gem. She’s a wildly successful hairstylist, published author, and mom extraordinaire, and her episodes are both hilarious and inspiring.” – Huong Luu, Luu Color Center
“‘StarTalk’ with Neil deGrasse Tyson.”
– Sean Paul, Dugan’s
“Our employee Nicole is currently listening to Dave Ramsey.” – Kim Mowbray, The Paint Center
“‘The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast’ is always a great go-to!” – Michael Keane, Burlington Design Center
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Hollywood has a long-standing love affair with Austin, thanks in part to tax incentives that make Texas a prime filming location. Clement Paint’s journey into the film industry started in 1995 with “Courage Under Fire,” starring Denzel Washington. The ‘meet cute’ happened when a lead painter walked into Ebbo’s store, made a large purchase, and mentioned needing even more supplies the next day.
“Getting their orders in a timely manner was more important than what we charged,” Ebbo recalls. “He ended up buying everything from us and it was a very profitable job.”
Unlike residential or commercial projects, supplying paint for film productions comes with unique challenges. According to Ebbo, speed is everything. When a production orders supplies, they often need them immediately. Flexibility is key, whether that means having inventory ready for pickup or delivering directly to the set.
Another challenge? The personalities. “You meet all kinds of people – some are very friendly, while others are introverts,” says Ebbo. “It’s part of the business.”
Film sets require a range of products that most paint stores don’t typically stock. Clement’s Paint carries specialized items like One Shot Lettering Paints, Japan Colors, Cabasil, colorants in squeeze bottles, dry colorants, and even sodium silicate. “Some of these items our suppliers were able to provide, but others I had to Google the item and find a supplier that would fill my order,” Ebbo explains.
And, of course, custom colors are a frequent request. “For the remake of The Alamo, they built an entire replica of old San Antonio, the town square, as well as a replica of the Alamo,” he says. “We custom-mixed pallets of flat paints in Raw Umber, Burnt Umber, Raw Sienna, and Ochre and delivered them to the job site,” he says.
Clement’s Paint typically offers film crews a 13-15% discount on paint and sundries, but for bulk orders, he’ll go as low as 20%. However, pricing isn’t the deciding factor for production teams. “Paint is a tiny fraction of a film’s budget,” Ebbo explains. “When union crew members earn $40+ an hour and actors make millions, they’re more concerned with efficiency than price.”
For independent paint retailers looking to enter the film industry, Ebbo has a simple piece of advice: be proactive.
“Don’t wait for them to come to you. Reach out to production managers and lead painters, introduce yourself, and bring fan decks. Persistence is key – go back, remember their names, and build relationships. Once you prove yourself, word spreads fast. They want to work with someone they can rely on.”
The connections Ebbo has made has led to painters who have done projects in Austin call him from other areas of the country. “They couldn’t get something from the paint stores they were dealing with and asked me to ship it to them.”
Clement’s Paint has worked on countless productions, including “Courage Under Fire,” “Predator,” “1923,” “Fear the Walking Dead,” “Friday Night Lights,” “Spy Kids,” “Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” and “Friday the 13th.” Some of the most unexpected requests? Fertilizer. “We’ve been asked to furnish 50-pound bags of fertilizer multiple times,” he laughs. “So, we buy it from the hardware store, mark it up, and deliver it. We’ve provided many products that are totally foreign to what paint stores carry, products that they could get on their own, but I think that’s what keeps them coming back to us – it saves them a lot of time.”
The industry is shifting toward eco-friendly products as sustainability becomes a priority. As film productions look for greener options, there’s an opportunity for paint retailers to provide environmentally conscious alternatives.
For those ready to embrace the fast-paced, high-demand world of movie set painting, the payoff can be big. As Ebbo puts it, “Every project has been profitable, and it’s an exciting industry to be part of.”
So, are you ready for your close-up?
“We’ve been providing paint and services to this industry for many years now.
One of our coolest projects was when we supplied paint for the first Suicide Squad film in 2014/2015. I was always welcome to walk through the different sets. The crew always showed me what they created with the paint we sold to them; I was always amazed how they could build these sets and make them so real.
One of my favorite things was when I was invited to see the real Batmobile. It was very secretive, I wasn’t allowed to take any pictures, but it was so cool to see it. Our relationship has always been very special. It’s more of being part of a team rather than a customer/vendor relationship.”
— Luciano De Lellis, Pro Glo Paints
Get to know Frank Machado Jr., general manager, multi-instrumentalist, and NextGen retail member
1. HE STARTED HIS CAREER AS A TEACHING INTERN
Before stepping into the paint business, Machado’s first job was as a teaching intern at Breakthrough Silicon Valley, a nonprofit dedicated to educational equity.
His career path took a turn in 2020 when he was exploring new opportunities, and his father-in-law offered him the chance to join Paint Garden. “He planned to open the store in January, but COVID-19 delayed everything until June, which is when I came on board,” Machado explains.
As general manager, Machado oversees purchasing and handles day-to-day operations with staff and customers across Paint Garden’s two locations.
2. HE PRIORITIZES CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Paint Garden sets itself apart by creating a genuinely friendly atmosphere and going above and beyond to help customers.
This customer-first approach has earned the store glowing reviews, a point of pride for Machado. “I am always proudest when I get unsolicited reviews that commend how I helped a customer,” he shares. “Especially when they share their difficulties in the review that I was unaware of.”
Machado is equally committed to helping his Paint Garden staff grow. “A goal of mine is to support my team to rise to a level where everyone is succeeding, and we are able to expand our reach to more areas.”
Giving back to the community is a priority for Machado and his team. Paint Garden
Frank Machado Jr. is striking the right chord at Paint Garden. In 2020, he joined his father-in-law’s team as general manager, helping launch the store amid the challenges of a global pandemic. Since then, Machado has become an integral part of the Riverside, California-based business, focusing on fostering a welcoming atmosphere, exceptional customer service, and community involvement.
Here are five things you might not know about our NextGen retail member from the Golden State.
supports organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the Gary Sinise Foundation, reflecting their commitment to making a positive impact.
Machado also invests in personal growth and professional development, including learning sign language to better serve Riverside’s significant deaf community. “I’m already bilingual in Spanish, and I thought adding sign language would be a great skill – not just for business, but to connect with the community,” he shares. “We get customers who appreciate the little sign language I do know.”
4. HE EMBRACES NEXTGEN NETWORKING
Machado has found tremendous value in being part of NextGen and ALLPRO.
“The industry grows with newer minds, and the ability to bounce ideas off likeminded entrepreneurs is invaluable,” he explains. Through seminars, roundtables, and ALLPRO events, Machado has built relationships that have enhanced his career. The buying power has also positively impacted the store’s bottom line.
“I have really valued ALLPRO as a vendor of mine,” Machado says. “The warehouse has provided resources that have benefited my business tremendously, both with prices and availability.”
Outside of work, Machado has a passion for music. A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, guitar, trumpet, and drums. He even played in a rock band growing up, exploring genres like classic rock, indie, and alternative.
When he’s not jamming, you can find him spending time with his dogs.
Last book you read?
“The Laws of Human Nature” by Robert Greene
Favorite paint color? Benjamin Moore, Newburyport Blue HC-155
Best advice you’ve ever received?
“No matter what you do, either today or in life, give it your best.” – My dad
Most notable ALLPRO show memory? My favorite moment was the STYX concert at the 2023 ALLPRO event. I had a blast with vendors and my family watching a legendary band –it was unforgettable.
What might other NextGen members be surprised to learn about you?
I was 15 when I started college. I was always focused and driven academically, so my mom found a cool program in Northern California that allowed me to take the majority of my classes at a community college and get credits. So, in my junior and senior year, I was at a community college 90% of the time.
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We want to express our gratitude to everyone that has helped us get to this place. At the start of the new year, we crossed a big milestone for anyone who uses a base-10 number system: our 100th client went live!
We know that any retailer who works with us takes a risk. Many of you own a business that has thrived for decades, or even over a century. Changing technology partners, especially in this tech-driven era, is no small endeavor. We’re honored that our fresh perspective, attention to feedback, and rapid development has earned your trust. Thank you for choosing to work with us.
Celebrating with you: We believe strongly in the power of inperson relationships. Our engineering team works in-person in Redwood City, California. And our sales team is spread out over the United States! We aim to know every client face-to-face, and we want to celebrate your Rundoo go-live day with you in-person.
Keeping you informed: Because our product is web-based, we can and do update it every day. To keep clients apprised of changes, we started a weekly newsletter named The Rundoo Primer that now has around 2,000 readers.
This is only the beginning: We are deeply committed above all else to listening to your ideas and suggestions, building phenomenal user experiences, and helping your business grow for years to come.
Last but not least, if you are reading this and are not using Rundoo yet, reach out to us! We’d love for you to join us on the journey from 100 to 1000.
Nick Hershey Co-founder, Rundoo
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AS AN ALLPRO MEMBER, WORKING TOGETHER TAKES YOU FARTHER THAN GOING SOLO.
ALLPRO membership takes you further together than you would alone. You're never on this journey by yourself; we share knowledge, support one another, and thrive as a community. Together, we unlock greater potential and achieve success.