RSI 8th Annual Industry Roundtable Optimism Prevails/Most roundtable participants say 2003 will end strong

摘要

In July 2002, RSI roundtable participants predicted tough times for the commercial roofing industry, and they were correct. Business didn't improve until after the 1st quarter of 2003, and even in July many contractors moods were grim. But in mid-September at RSI's 8th annual Industry Roundtable in San Antonio, participants painted a brighter picture for the next few months. In fact, 80 percent of the 23 contractors and suppliers attending predicted their business would increase in 2004. Purveyors of residential roofing, metal shingles and white coatings had no complaints about 2003, while some installers experienced a relatively flat year so far, with some improvement in Q3. Obviously, high insurance costs continue to plague both contractors and suppliers. Attendees had other concerns, such as the trucking shortage and shingle warranties. But overall, it appears that the roofing industry is once again showing its resilient nature and preparing for a healthy increase in business in 2004.