In 2025, the flooring industry stands at a crossroads. Small businesses, independent single-location retailers and DIY flooring warehouses, face intense competition from big-box giants like Floor & Decor, tight margins of 5-10%, and the challenges of economic uncertainty. As the social media post by a cooperative leader highlights, cooperatives offer a transformative solution to inequality,Read More
In the entrepreneurial landscape, the choice between seeking venture capital through accelerators like Techstars or opting for organic growth and reinvestment is not merely a financial decision; it’s a strategic choice that defines the very essence of how a business will operate, grow, and ultimately, succeed or fail. My journey with RollMaster ASP, a flooringRead More
History of RollMaster Flooring Business Software Origins and Early Development: Growth and Evolution: Acquisition and Integration: Legacy and Impact: RollMaster’s history reflects a journey from a necessity-driven project in a family business to becoming a pivotal player in the flooring industry’s software landscape, adapting to technological advancements, and ultimately merging with broader tech ecosystems toRead More
Introduction In the world of SaaS (Software as a Service), the dance between innovation and investment is intricate. Does the involvement of investment banks and venture capitalists (VCs) lead to a stifling of creativity, or does it actually fuel the tech industry’s next big leaps? Let’s unravel this complex relationship, especially in the context ofRead More
In the flooring industry SaaS, the balance between investment and innovation isn’t just about money; it’s about understanding the market you serve with precision.When investment banks and venture capitalists (VCs) engage in aggressive acquisition strategies within the flooring industry, aiming to consolidate market dominance by merging all flooring software SaaS companies with a broader kitchen,Read More
This chapter chronicles the incredible journey from my “Against the Grain” story to the nascent conceptual stages of Software as a Service (SaaS) and its evolution into an industry standard within the flooring sector. It showcases how RollMaster played a pivotal role in transforming business operations, growing from a modest, one-man software venture to aRead More
In 1974, the faithful son—affectionately known as “Bonehead” by his father, Pops—returned to the family flooring business with a vision to modernize operations. After three years of active Navy service and earning a degree in economics and accounting, he was eager to contribute to the legacy built on hard work and dedication. Pops, a respectedRead More
On-Premises vs Cloud Solutions in the Flooring Industry: Which is Best for Your Business?The flooring industry is evolving, and with it comes the need for modern business solutions that streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and improve efficiency. When it comes to selecting the right IT infrastructure, the debate between on-premises (on-prem) and cloud solutions isRead More
This is my analysis of CCA’s Retail 2.0 and Broadlume’s Digital Retailing system is just my opinion. My thoughts are based on what I have heard and read on the street, online and in the industry press. This is simply my perspective on the potential benefits and challenges associated with each system. Here are someRead More
What is the impact on retailers when suppliers eliminate cash discounts that have been the historical norm for 60 years? I have been surprised at the lack of public discussion on this impactful change. I was shocked when some retailers expressed indifference or acted as though the terms were a gift and not important. WhileRead More