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The Pier Review

Hi there!

I hope 2024 started on a positive note and has been going well for you so far. In the first newsletter of the new year, you will find useful information regarding the upcoming Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, an overview of our most popular slides from Repon, and the latest industry-related news.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at sales@usfutaba.com or me at elizaveta@usfutaba.com. You will find all our contact information at the end of this newsletter if you would like to call us instead.


Product Highlight

Repon Drawer Slides

This section focuses on the side mount ball bearing drawer slide range manufactured by Repon. The relationship between Repon and U.S. Futaba has grown over the years to be mutually beneficial.

Repon has distinguished itself from the competition by providing high quality products and investing in engineering developments. The focus on these two factors makes for an extremely reliable, top performing, and easy to install drawer slide. All the models below are just a small glimpse of Repon’s capability, as a manufacturer.  

100 Lb Medium-Duty Ball Bearing Slide
NJ-31733

The standard Repon drawer slide offered by U.S. Futaba. We introduced this model to the domestic market in 2008. It has since been proven to be an incredibly dependable option for basic cabinets that do not need any higher end features.

100 Lb Medium-Duty Full Extension Soft Close Ball Bearing Slide
NJ-35D65

Repon’s soft close drawer slide is defined by three key features: the hold-in detent, the dry damper soft close mechanism, and the push button release for drawer removal. The last two being patented systems developed by Repon’s innovation.

100 Lb Medium-Duty “Touch to Open” Ball Bearing Slide
NJ-38D58

Lightweight, silent, and smooth. You can effortlessly remove the drawer with this slide model’s patented “touch to release” mechanism. The perfect edition for any modern kitchen, office, or other furniture piece which requires a full extension slide.

Recently, we reviewed our Repon offering and are happy to provide it to you. Please do not hesitate to send an email to sales@usfutaba.com or reach out to us for more information.

  • East Coast: (877) 293-0584
  • West Coast: (800) 821-4007

Industry News

The Red Sea Crisis and Shipping Delays

As we begin the new year, we often strive to leave behind any negativity from the previous year. However, some things that have begun in 2023 cannot be left behind.

The situation in the Middle East is concerning, as the stability of the Suez Canal, which connects the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, is under threat. Since November, Houthi forces based in Yemen have been attacking cargo vessels that are related to Israel, as a response to the conflict in Palestine. The attacks occur in the Red Sea making passage through the Suez Canal difficult. This uncertainty can have a negative impact on the global economy and trade.

The Suez Canal is a crucial shipping lane for global trade, with around 30% of vessels passing through it to transport goods from Asia to both Europe and the US. Since November there have been over 17 attacks. This tension in the region has forced international shipping companies to reroute their vessels around the southern tip of Africa, the Cape of Good Hope. This change in routes can lead to disruptions in the global supply chain, resulting in increased ocean freight costs, raised oil prices, and delivery delays of up to two weeks.

The Importance of a Proper Hire

Due to the atmosphere in the job market, employers should be more attentive to recruitment. Many businesses often underestimate the importance of the hiring process. The procedure is not easy and sometimes can be time-consuming and energy-draining. However, it is crucial to approach this task thoroughly and with patience.

Here are several recruitment strategies to find qualified people for your business:

Embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

This tactic plays a significant role when looking for a perfect candidate. Expanding the search allows employers to have a broader field of choice. Furthermore, having employees from diverse backgrounds increases the chances of attracting new customers and strengthening the bond with existing diverse clients.

Planning Interview Thoroughly

It is important to find not only a skilled person, but also whose values and principles align with the company’s. Even a short but thoroughly planned interview can help understand a person’s individuality.

A well-planned interview should strike a balance between asking questions related to an applicant’s qualifications, as well as open-ended questions that reveal their personality.

Attending Industry-Related Events

Attending industry-related events such as trade shows or conventions can help greatly with finding a perfect candidate. Due to its narrow focus, people attending those places are already interested in the industry. Therefore, it is a good idea to look for a suitable candidate there who might feel blessed to become a part of your team.