Editor’s Note – May 2024

Harrell Kerkhoff

If you want a good excuse to visit one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and make a case that it involves the cleaning industry, then may I suggest looking into attending the inaugural World Brush Expo (worldbrushexpo.com). The event will showcase machinery manufacturers and suppliers involved in technical, hygiene, cleaning, and oral care brush production, along with paintbrush, paint roller and mop fabrication.

Perhaps the best part, World Brush Expo, which is scheduled for May 22-24, 2024, will take place at the Bolognafiere Venue, in Bologna, Italy.

I have never been to Northern Italy, but I have been told by those who have that the region is “a slice of heaven.” According to Culture Trip, “Northern Italy is as topographically diverse as it is beautiful: spectacular mountain vistas in the Dolomites and the Alps, vast crystalline lakes, undulating, vineyard-covered hills, dramatic coastlines, enchanting historical cities and architecture.”

Meanwhile, Bologna, with 388,000-plus residents, is known for its own rich history, red tiled rooftop architecture, and a great nickname, “Fat City,” due to the area’s famous cuisine. Enough said.

World Brush Expo, organized by Bolognafiere Spa — in partnership with the American Brush Manufacturers Association (ABMA) and the European Brushware Federation (FEIBP) — is being described as the “not to be missed” event for company representatives involved in the global professional brush and related sectors.

Organizers are expecting 200-plus international companies to exhibit at World Brush Expo. Those manufacturers and suppliers will showcase the latest in technology and products in two halls inside the Bolognafiere Venue. An approximate 10,000 visitors, from throughout the world, are expected to attend the event.

Having been to a similar trade show many times in Germany, I can attest that there is something unique about seeing a very large piece of machinery (or group of machines) making various types of brushes in different exhibition booths — something unlike any other trade show I have ever attended. World Brush Expo is worth looking into for those involved with brushes and mops within the jan/san and related industries. And don’t forget, it’s taking place in “a slice of heaven.”

The cover article for the May 2024 issue of Maintenance Sales News focuses on Supply Solutions, a full line jan/san, packaging, food service, and office supply distributor based in Fullerton, CA, with added distribution in Texas and Arizona.

“I started the company in 2006 after working two years in sales at a large distributorship,” Supply Solutions President, CEO & Founder Jeffrey Lerma said, during a recent interview. “I decided to venture out on my own, beginning the company with a cargo van and a garage. It’s crazy to think about it now, but I loaded products into the van and made deliveries myself. Over the years, the business has moved five times thanks to continual growth and the need for more warehouse space.”

Today, Supply Solutions operates its own fleet of trucks and services a region that includes Southern California, Phoenix, AZ, Houston, TX, and Dallas, TX.

“We currently have approximately 55,000 square feet of overall warehousing space and utilize specialized software to help us manage inventory at each location — with room to grow for future business. We have come a long way from our cargo van and garage days,” Lerma added.

The May issue of MSN also includes the following:

• A spotlight on Foodservice Equipment & Supplies;
• A discussion on using In-House Vs. Independent Reps;
• And thought leadership articles focusing on Dispensers & Proportioners; Cleaning Chemicals & Supplies; Skin & Personal Care; Operational Efficiency Through Hygiene; Mold Remediation & Prevention In Buildings; and, Mastering The Art Of Timing In Business.

I would like to thank everyone for their continued support of Maintenance Sales News. Please send news items and story ideas to my email address at: harrellk@rdgmedia.net.

Harrell Kerkhoff

Editor, Maintenance Sales News Magazine