The construction business is going green. ChemLink, Advanced Architectural Products is leading the way. It was green before green was in demand.
Founded 20 years ago, the privately held company has grown from a three-person operation to one with 45 employees, distributors and sales reps across the country.
At a time when the U.S. construction industry has been down by 20 to 40 percent in some places,
ChemLink has experienced sales growth of 20 percent in Michigan and 15 percent for its North American sales.
Longtime employee Gail Nelson attributes much of that growth to the company's unique commitment to creating products that are safe for people and the environment.
Equally important is that the sealants, adhesives and similar products the company develops and sells are strong and durable.
ChemLink products are made with polyethers. That means they do not give off the toxins that harm the nervous system, kidneys and lungs of people who use them on a regular basis. Third party testing companies have certified the safety of ChemLink products.
"Contractors have told us for years they like the products because they work and they (the contractors) don't have to worry about being sick when they get old," Nelson says.
And the company that prides itself on being contractor driven listens carefully when people in the business tell them what they need or how a product can be improved.
At the heart of the operation is owner Phillip Georgeau, a chemist who turns out products one after the other in response to customers' requests. "We've become known as problem-solvers. That's why we've been able to do what we have done," Nelson says.
She says in the early years the company did not tout the environmental soundness of its products because then the prevailing attitude was that if it was green it probably was inferior quality. Now manufacturers are coming to ChemLink to find out more about their product line.
Some of the early days were lean. Georgeau worked in the lab to create the products he believed in as his wife, Betty, supported the family on her nurse's salary.
The company was built with no grants, loans or outside help. "In many ways, the company has grown solely from the sacrifice of its owners," Nelson says.
As the company grew it expanded into three locations, but after an exhaustive search, three years ago it moved under one roof in Schoolcraft. The 50,000-square-foot building houses state-of-the-art labs, offices, manufacturing operations and warehousing.
Nelson says the company also is unique in its loyalty to employees. She cites ChemLink's continued coverage of employees' health insurance at a time when the cost has driven many employers to drop coverage. "They care about their employees," Nelson says.
Writer: Kathy Jennings
Source: Gail Nelson, ChemLink
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