Paul Gertner, president of Starborn Industries, a manufacturer and distributor of fastening products, was named '2013 Lumber Person of the Year' by the New York Long Island Lumber Association (NYLILA) last month.
Gertner was selected in recognition of his "long standing dedication, support and service to the lumber and building materials industry," according to the group.
"Paul is an example of how hard work and dedication are among the many reasons why Starborn is a major force in our industry," Michael Horne of Liberty Panel, said. Horne had served as president of the New York & Suburban Lumber Association prior to its merger with the Long Island Lumber Association.
Beating the Big Boxes
In remarks, Gertner called the mid-1990s a critical period for the industry noting that Starborn's customer base of independent lumberyards was being decimated by the spread of large box retail outlets. However, "our industry proved different," he said, due in large part to the significant base of professional customers.
"Most of these professionals circled back to your stores after trying the large box outlets, and your companies pivoted to concentrate on them, becoming the thriving pro yards you are today," Gertner told NYLILA members. "Starborn also pivoted by establishing the highest standards for its construction fasteners and developing unique specialized decking products aimed at contractor-installed high end decks."
Founded in 1961, Starborn Industries supplies deck-fastening products, including Headcote stainless deck screws with color coated heads, the Smart-Bit and Pro Plug System, and the Cap-Tor fastener designed for Capstock decking.