In addition to employing a cooperative and driven staff, having the right equipment in place is also a key component to a successful business. While efficiency plays a significant role in the production process, having an environmentally friendly shop should also be a priority.

I was in awe of the elaborate strategic plan the leadership team and I just produced. After three dedicated days of planning and brainstorming, we had seven pages of strategic initiatives to serve our business well for the next 36 months. What made it so impressive was also why it didn't work.

It should be no surprise to anyone that our market is constantly changing and we, as fabricators and business owners, have to adjust our operating models to stay innovative and competitive, but most importantly, cater to an all-knowing, multi-generational customer audience.

The natural stone industry is filled with companies of all sizes, but we know that most are small-to-medium size companies. When it comes to marketing and training, I often hear about limited budgets and staff resources.

ABK has kicked off the celebrations for its 25 years of business in 2017 with the restyling of its "ABK emozioni in superficie" logo, which is now simpler and more elegant.