Eastern Companies Making a Presence at Glass Expo West

Regional trade shows such as Glass Expo West ’17 (GEW) are a great way for manufacturers and suppliers in the area to connect with the local glass and glazing community. However, many businesses in the industry that are based across the country also take advantage of the opportunity to market to a clientele that may be less familiar with their products.

GEW is taking place Thursday and Friday at the Irvine Marriott in Irvine, Calif.

Cline Doors has been in business for more than 50 years and has supplied its products worldwide. But because it’s located in Florida, the company has to put forth an extra effort to get in front of the Western industry.

“Even though we’ve been in business for a really long time, out west, we do see people who have never heard of us,” says Scott Rubin, vice president at Cline. “That’s why the regional shows are so important to us.”

He says Cline hasn’t missed one of the Glass Expos in the last four or five years.

“These shows really help us market to the end user—the person buying and installing it,” says Rubin.

Georgia-based YKK AP is also on the show floor working to expand its presence in the region.

YKK supplies nationwide, and has recently ramped up its efforts across the country. It opened a new facility in Texas two years ago and last year expanded its sales representation coast to coast.

“We’re here to see glazing contractors … to develop relationships with glaziers we haven’t met before,” says marketing and communications manager Steve Schohan. He adds that YKK is eager to learn more about the unique needs of the regional industry, such as seismic requirements.

DeGorter, headquartered in North Carolina, is another Eastern company showcasing its offerings.

Pete DeGorter, vice president of the company, has been visiting with many glaziers at the event. “It’s been a quality show,” he says. “What’s interesting is the amount of glaziers considering adding fabrication.”

He adds that there has been a heightened interest in decorative laminated colored glass, which DeGorter has displayed at its booth. “That’s drawn quite a few people here,” he says.

The show floor is open until 2 p.m. Friday, and on-site registration is available.

Visit USGNN.com™ for continued coverage of Glass Expo West ’17.