Opinion

Are the big really getting bigger? An alternative view.

Wayne, N.J.-based roofing and ventilation manufacturer GAF was recently awarded four American Graphic Design Awards. 

The company also won an American Package Design Award for its TruSlate Sample Box. There were over 1,500 submissions in this contest, organized by Graphic Design USA magazine, which rewards packaging, p-o-p and related projects that are visually attractive and which feature designs that advance the brand and forge an emotional connection with the purchaser.

Throughout the downturn of the last four years or so we have seen the lumber and building materials industry shrink dramatically. Some estimates of sales shrinkage at the dealer level put it beyond 50%. In some markets, that estimate is absurdly low. There is no denying that everyone in all segments and steps in the chain is battered. Unfortunately, even the homeowner/consumer is somewhat damaged as well. 


The Hillman Group has announced the acquisition of TagWorks, a pet ID tag program, for $40 million in cash plus an additional consideration of $12.5 million on Oct. 31, 2011. TagWorks is responsible for paying $18.5 million in outstanding debt and transaction fees from the proceeds. The deal closed on March 16. 

Orlando, Fla. -- Chicago-based hardware co-op True Value Co. reported wholesale revenues increased 2.3% in the fourth quarter of 2010, and retail revenues increased 4.6% for the quarter.

CEO Lyle Heidemann delivered the preliminary results to True Value members during the General Session of the co-op's 2011 Spring & Rental Market held here in Orlando. 

"Our fourth quarter results should give us some momentum going into 2011," Heidemann said. 

The Boa Closure System, which replaces traditional shoe strings with a durable closure system, will be featured on certain Red Wing work boots this spring. 

The Boa Closure system is tightened and loosened by a dial and is designed for comfort, safety and closure, the company said.

Unlike traditional shoelaces that can cause uneven pressure due to friction when tied, the Boa Closure System allows the lace to equalize pressure around the foot, creating a customized, glove-like-fit that never comes untied.

Having worked heavily with marketing research for more than 30 years, I know just how useful it can be to make better business decisions, but like all tools there are limitations. One very important issue with marketing research is that we often measure peoples’ attitudes, but what we really care about is their behavior. In some cases, there is a very close link between the two and sometime not so much. Let’s consider two examples.


“It is one of the most active lobbying efforts I have ever seen,” quipped Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin, (D-Ill.) when asked about the fight over debit card swipe fees. And he’s been on Capitol Hill for 28 years.