KBIS Recap
I would like to thank everybody who took time to meet with us and discuss the latest industry tendencies. We found every conversation to be valuable and informative. We deeply appreciate all the insights you shared with us.
This exhibition provided a wonderful opportunity to observe the latest trends. This year it was heavily on finishes and materials. Brass, gold, and dull brass were a standout this year. These finishes are timeless and continue to hold strong positions in the industry. Matte black was also a prevalent trend seen throughout the show.
In addition to finishes, the materials used were also noteworthy. Acrylic drawer handles and closet rods, along with aluminum profiles, are gaining momentum. Although acrylic-made products are relatively new to the market, they are already showing signs of becoming a popular choice.
U.S. Futaba tries to be ahead of curve when it comes to trends. Thus, we showcased acrylic closet rods at AWFS in 2023. If you’re interested in learning more about this product, click here to check out U.S. Futaba’s October newsletter, which has additional information and insights.
Overall, the show provided a clear vision into the most popular finishes and materials in the market today.
For those we did not get to meet at the show, we would love to hear from you about your experience. Did the event meet your expectations? Was it your first time attending the show, or have you been there before? Did you attend the celebratory toast? We are genuinely interested in your thoughts and would love to hear your stories. You can reach out to me at elizaveta@usfutaba.com.
P.S.: a funny story from me – it was my first time attending a tradeshow, and I forgot my business cards! How ironic!
National Hardware Show 2024
The National Hardware Show is already upon us. It will take place from March 26th to 28th at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
This year, U.S. Futaba will be exhibiting for our first time. This is a joint exhibition to promote our United Kingdom-originated supplier Rothley. In their home country, the company is known for innovative concepts, quality products, and standout finishes.
U.S. Futaba is excited to introduce Rothley to the North American builder’s hardware market. Their entry into this market is expected to bring significant benefits to both companies. With this new venture, U.S. Futaba and Rothley are poised to grow both businesses, expand in new markets, and diversify product offerings to meet the evolving needs of the customers.
Our booth is W748 in the West Hall of the LVCC
Down below in the product highlight section, you will find one of many products that will be presented at the show.
Product Highlight
Rothley’s Grab Bars
Rothley’s grab bars come in both 12-inch and 18-inch options, offering the perfect combination of functionality and style for your home. Made from high-quality stainless steel, these grab bars are durable and reliable for everyday use. They can be installed both indoors and outdoors. This product offers a secure grip for added safety in bathrooms or any other area where extra support may be needed.
Each piece comes in a kit which includes:
- 1 x Grab Bar
- Easy-to-follow installation guide
- Screws and wall anchors
Please visit our contact page or send an email to sales@usfutaba.com for more information.
Industry News
Old-Fashioned Financial Scam is Back!
Warning! Be careful where you leave your checks, as an old financial scam of washing them is back and on the rise!
The practice of check washing was first observed in the 1970s, but it has recently become popular again. This type of scam is rising due to its ease of performing and the fact that almost anyone can do it. Besides that, it is also fast. Scammers can get a check from a mailbox in the morning and complete their dishonest mission before a person returns from work.
The procedure is the following: a fraudster steals a check from a mailbox, soaks it in chemicals like acetone or bleach removing the payee’s name and amount while keeping the signature. After the check is dry and like new, the criminal can write the desired recipient’s name and sometimes even change the amount.
Check washing has never been a pleasant experience, but it has become even more prevalent due to technological progress and increased crime rates. Now, some scammers resell the checks and provide buyers with the personal information of the victim such as Social Security Number, bank account number, and routing number. Having this information allows fraudsters to take loans, open credit cards, withdraw money, and possibly more.
Below are a few tips to protect yourself from this type of scam:
- Make online payments. If you haven’t yet, then once you figure it out, it is a very easy and convenient feature. You can even set up autopay so you will not miss a due date.
- Send checks directly from the post office. It takes more time but eventually is safer.
- Use gel pens. They are the hardest to erase since gel ink penetrates deeper to the pores of the paper.
- Notify your bank and inform the USPS immediately.
Overall, scams are progressing at light speed. Nowadays, perpetrators can use artificial intelligence to change their voices and sound like your loved ones saying that they ran out of gas, forgot their wallet at home, and need you to send money. Scammers’ goal is to make people stressed so they cannot evaluate the situation correctly. Take a deep breath and remember, banks and other official institutions will not call you out of the blue. Stay safe!