Fiberbuilt Tips From an Old Professional: My Experiences as a Supplier in the

from Florida Restaurant & Lodging Magazine July 2020 - Annual Beverage Issue

by Florida Restaurant and Lodging Magazine

Infinite Energy Boost Your Business with Your Online Standing

Tips from an Old Professional: My Experiences as a Supplier in the Hospitality Industry

by JORDAN BECKNER, President, Fiberbuilt Umbrellas and Cushions

“ N ext time, we will discuss how we are all learning to do business together again!” I must admit I did not do my homework on this subject. I am not sure I know how my fellow suppliers are doing business differently, but I have some firsthand experience on how hoteliers and restaurateurs are doing business because

I have actively patronized both respective markets. I also have firsthand knowledge of how the outdoor furniture business has progressed.

My biggest amazement is how quickly our industry has adapted to the obstacles that have been put in place by the people who regulate this industry. (I do not think even

EF Hutton would have known to advise to buy stock in Plexiglas). The ingenuity and speed that you all have used to comply is mind-boggling. I think of my friend, Heiko, and how he used Plexiglas to utilize his bar space when most thought the bar had to be closed, and how Ralph and Laura Lewis wasted no time in opening an outdoor barbecue restaurant (on behalf of all first responders, thanks for the free chow), just to name a couple right off the top of my head. The most remarkable thing about this is the camaraderie this industry has. When something is working for one of you, instead of hiding it, you have shared it with your competitors (you are better people than me). You demonstrate your relationship as colleagues in this business we call hospitality.

Our business continues to grow exponentially each day as we strive to meet your needs. Thanks to our Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association’s continued efforts to keep our name (and that of our other supplier members) in front of the member hoteliers and restaurateurs. As a result, we are receiving many calls for outdoor shade and cushion products. This increase in business after such a negative hit this spring, and the knowledge of all the FRLA did for us, made it a little easier to write that final sponsor check of the year. I urge you to do the same as you reflect on the work FRLA has done for all of us.

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