Wholesalers & Distributors

Smardan Supply takes ‘old school’ approach

February 8, 2016

According to Forbes.com, 543,000 new businesses start each month. Some of them make it, most of them don’t. But I...

Quality product, hands-on leadership remain at heart of Weldbend

By Mary Jo Martin

February 8, 2016

Whenever I call the Weldbend headquarters, I’m always a little surprised — and delighted — when one of the Coulas...

16th annual Crystal Vision Awards breakfast

February 8, 2016

The 16th annual Crystal Vision Awards Breakfast 2016 was held at the Westgate Las Vegas Hotel on January 20th. Attendees...

Q&A with Ron Passafaro, president and CEO, ECR International

February 8, 2016

Steve Smith

We spoke with Ron Passafaro, president and CEO, ECR International on Dec. 23, the day ECR shareholders officially agreed to...

Are your customer relationships an asset or an obstacle?

February 8, 2016

Dave Kahle

Positive customer relationships are the basis of much B2B business, right? Positive business relationships ensure us an audience with the...

First quarter 2016 forecast on carbon steel welding fittings and forged steel flanges

February 8, 2016

Stephen Letko

Construction growth in 2015 gained strength as the year progressed from a slow start increasing at a rate of 13...

The seven wonders of the (estate tax-saving) world

February 8, 2016

Irving Blackman

Let's start with two facts you must burn into your mind: 1) Your estate plan must start now with a life-time...

Business Management

It’s a Good Time to Re-evaluate and Prepare for the ‘Busy Season’ Ahead

February 8, 2016

Rich & Jen Schmitt

Make no mistake, this is not a benign situation. To perpetuate this situation is a demoralizing insult to the employees...

One on one with AJ Benton of Smardan Supply

AJ Benton is part of the fourth generation that comprises Smardan Supply. The current Branch Manager of Smardan’s Fountain Valley location, Benton speaks to me about the latest developments within the company, his enthusiasm about the future of the industry, and shares a few tips on how to succeed in this industry as the next generation!

February 8, 2016

Danielle Galian: Tell me a little bit about your background? AJ Benton: I went to UC Santa Barbara and graduated...