
Let’s talk trade!
Specifically, the common thread that ties us all together: sheds. As we dive into the world of sheds, it’s crucial to explore what this means for us, both as a trade and on a personal level.
Merriam-Webster (the digital version, I confess) is my go- to for definitions, and according to Webster, to “shed” is “to rid oneself of temporarily or permanently as superfluous or unwanted.” Fitting, isn’t it?
It takes a bit of scrolling to find our meaning: “a slight structure built for shelter or storage.” But I’m not dismissing the connection to the initial definition. Just as a snake sheds its skin or a deer sheds its antlers, we too have sheds—those structures that seem to become the “junk drawers” of our backyards, filled to the brim with “maybe I’ll use that someday” items.
But perhaps labeling them as “storage solutions” in our mission statements captures our true purpose in the industry.
In this column, I want to reflect on our trade as a whole.
Recently, my journey took me to the Shed Builder Expo in Grand Rapids, Michigan—a trade show hosted by Shed Business Journal—which led me to consider the idea of organizing as a trade association.
Before diving into that hefty subject, let’s talk about our road trip to the “Pure Michigan” state (yes, that’s really what the license plates read).
Deanna and I are enamored with Michigan—especially Cadillac and the iconic Mackinac Island. Interesting tidbit: Did you know Michigan is the only “two-part” state in the Union? As a self-proclaimed geek, I love weird facts like this.
According to www.50states.com, Michigan’s state motto is “Si quaeris peninsulam amoenam, circumspice,” which translates to “If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you.” Perhaps my favorite Michigan-related line came from Debbie Boltes, a customer service rockstar married to the publisher of this magazine, Marty Boltes. When discussing Michigan traffic, she quipped, “The Michigan state flower seems to be the traffic cone.” As an Illinois resident, I laughed loudly. I can relate!
Now, onto the trade show. I’ll give you three key takeaways. First, why weren’t you there? Seriously, if this trade is how you earn your living, you should be at this annual event.
Exhibitors from all over the world (shoutout to James Price of ShedPro, who makes the trek from Vietnam) gather to showcase products designed to enhance your specific niche in the shed industry. It’s not just about seeing new products and services; it’s about seminars, networking, and learning.
Second, understanding the shed industry can be a bit like deciphering a teenager’s relationship status on Facebook: “It’s complicated.” The industry is still maturing, with many attendees, including shed builders, haulers, and dealers, creating solutions for emerging needs, which often evolve into business opportunities not just for themselves but also for others.
Our industry’s entrepreneurial spirit is strong and sparks innovation, as people turn ideas into solutions.
Third, exhibitors invest considerable time, money, and effort into participating. They travel to engage with you. Reciprocate by spending time at their booths, asking questions, and staying curious. After all, this is the trade to which you’ve committed yourself as a professional.
Skipping those informative interactions means passing up on insights that could propel your company forward.
Planning your calendar for Knoxville, Tennessee, in 2025? Make it an opportunity to attend and build community— whether as a spectator or exhibitor.
In my talks of organizing for a better industry, I considered: How do we bolster our sector? As other trades grow, they foster education, organization, and communication. Who anchors this in our field? While skilled construction labor organizations exist, there seems to be room for a niche-specific shed trade association.
This idea was sparked during a discussion with Jared Ledford of Dayton Barns in Ohio at a trade show where he questioned which association supports us. He expressed interest in forming something new and might welcome a call to discuss.
But what constitutes “what we do” in our industry? Post-frame buildings, carports, gazebos—there’s such diversity.
Established organizations do exist, like the National Shed Rental Association (NSRA)—formerly NBSRA. This organization fills a gap previously targeted by broader entities like the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO).
NSRA’s name change reflects a shift in focus— solidifying terms like “shed.” It emphasizes rent-to-own (RTO) arrangements, enriched by professional companies sharing advice at annual events close to the expo.
As for organizing for networking, the influx of sales during COVID highlighted difficulties in finding and keeping skilled workers—a gap an association might fill. Facilitating connections with trade groups and educational institutions would only benefit the community and address skilled labor needs.
Consider attending these events for the sake of your growth—both personal and in your craft. How we do anything is how we do everything, my parents taught me. Commit to the practices that will elevate us all.
I look forward to your company in 2025, at expos, seminars, and anywhere we can convene to foster our professional development in the shed industry. Let’s make it our mission to show up, because united, we are stronger and more capable.
Here’s to progress and learning—hope to see you there!