Builders’ General, a fourth-generation family-owned and operated business proudly commemorated a significant milestone this year, celebrating 40 years of its esteemed Trade Show. Held on October 8, 2024 at the Tillinghouse at Suneagles Golf Course, the event attracted over 60 vendors showcasing their latest innovations. Over 900 Local builders, industry professionals, and construction companies had the opportunity to explore premier offerings from standout vendors, including Andersen Windows and Doors, AZEK/TimberTech, Homecrest Cabinetry, and Weyerhaeuser Lumber.
The Builders’ General Trade Show has become a cornerstone of the building industry, providing a vital platform for companies to connect, collaborate, and learn about cutting-edge materials and products. The Shaheen family, owners of Builders’ General, have set a high standard for these events, fostering an atmosphere of education and partnership. Their unwavering commitment to the community and the businesses they serve has solidified the Trade Show as a must-attend event in the building sector.
The goal of the annual Trade Show is for building professionals to reconnect with business associates, network with new contacts, and immerse themselves in the Builder’s General customer care culture.
Talking with many customers and vendors in attendance, we heard from Evan Topilow, Owner of Topilow Development. “My sincere thanks to the entire team at Builders General Supply for inviting me and my crew today. It’s a great event, and we truly appreciate the opportunity to connect with your vendors, learn about new products, and engage with industry peers in such a welcoming environment. Events like these make a big impact, and we’re grateful to be part of your network.”
Devin Bouton, ownerof Halcyon Homes, in the construction business for 25 years, building high end custom homes. Each home has something unique and special with a focus on kitchens and baths. He credits Builders’ General kitchen designer, Jeff Herson, with his incredible talent and attention to detail. With Jeff on his team, he never has to make changes to kitchen or bathroom plans, saving time and money. He end- ed our discussion with, “I get great customer service on whatever I need.”
Lou Padula, owner of Padula Builders, sat down to discuss his 39-year partnership with Builders’ General. He stated that both Builders’ General and his company view customer service as paramount totheir continued success and growth. One example for Padula is early on in his career, he had an issue with a product. “All Builders’ General cared about was what they needed to do to make it right. Whatever it took on their end, they solved it and that is customer service you don’t hear about every day.”
Pierre Randolph, Andersen Windows and Doors, has been working with Builders’ General for many years. Over this time, he has observed both companies have the same ethos. “Builders’ General stands behind their products. We are very proud of our partnership and the strong grown over decades.”
Jim Brooks, owner of BCI, in business for 44 years said, “You couldn’t work with a better family-oriented company. They are the best and I’ve dealt with a lot of companies. I really love these guys.”
Russ Lehmann of Masterbrand Cabinetry, commented, ‘’Builders’ General is one of my favorite clients to work with. It’s just great to work with a small family-owned company, even though they are large in scale. Their customers and vendors really feel taken care of like family.”
As per Phil Shaheen, President of Builders’ General, “Central to the success of this year’s Trade Show was Betsy Shaheen, whose leadership and dedication made this milestone event possible. Betsy’s vision and organizational prowess have been instrumental in ensuring the Trade Show continues to thrive year after year. She was supported by a dedicated team of Builders’ General employees, whose hard work and collaboration play a crucial role in the event’s success. Their collective efforts exemplify the spirit of teamwork and commitment to excellence that defines Builders’ General”.
Established in 1931 in Cranford, NJ, Builders’ General has evolved through four generations, now proudly operating seven locations. The company is synonymous with quality and reliability, maintaining a reputation for exceptional customer service and top tier building products. Builders’ General remains steadfast in its core values, offering a comprehensive range of building materials at competitive prices, backed by honest and reliable service.
Mr. Shaheen added, “As Builders’ General looks to the future, it remains committed to advancing the industry and supporting the community, ensuring that the Trade Show continues to be a beacon of innovation and collaboration for years to come.”
For more information about Builders’ General, please visit our website: buildersgeneral.com.
The article originally appeared in the October 31 – November 6, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
