2017 has been a challenging year for us here at GDC, but all of us have been prepared for a challenge and passed our individual tests.  As the year comes to a close, all I can say is “WOW”…..

Our customers, vendors, dealers and partners, know us as “those people at GDC”.  Those people… the heart and soul of the business….is what keeps us around year after year.  Of course, we wouldn’t exist without our customers, but lets be honest….unlike most retail stores that look to sell products, we look to solve problems.  We aren’t here just waiting for the phone to ring or for an email to come across.  No, we are actively searching for ways to educate and assist folks who are trying to remodel, build, or just exist in a healthier space.

So besides launching several new product lines and delving into new markets, heres what “those people at GDC” have been doing this year, that you probably don’t know about:

Emily…our resident web guru and small package wizard…successfully navigated us through the transition to not only a brand spanking new website, but new shipping software, a new web server and a years worth of beautiful newsletters and email blasts.  I don’t know where it comes from, but her graphic design skills are amazing and she keeps learning every day!

Kelsey… our Interior Designer, showroom manager and trade partner coordinator… completed her stint on the USGBC Wisconsin Board of Advisors, ran another successful Re_Purposeful recycling event, helped USGBC National with their conference seminars, and became the recipient of a 30 Under 30 Award from the National Kitchen and Bath Association, in part for her creation of the GDC Custom Cabinetry line.  Energy beyond belief!

Alex… GDC’s muscle, logistics coordinator, handler of all “difficult” clients and all around jack of all trades… not only is he working here doing all the above, but he also juggles a full time college schedule, completing a degree in business with an emphasis on logistics.  Alex has been instrumental with our shipping negotiations and keeping a tight ship in the back so that the front can run smooth.  And get this… Alex was asked by the MHI (Material Handling Institute), a national trade Association for logistics executives, to help create their first young professionals group.  In doing so, he spoke at an executive summit in front of 100 Fortune 500 execs… Wow indeed!

Andy… While its difficult for me to talk about myself, I can tell you this, 2017 became the year of clarity in my mission to be the expert in my field and provide the most assistance I can to our chemically sensitive clients and to those trying their best to bring wellness to their homes.  On that note, we launched our FRAT testing for formaldehyde release, introduced the Caliwel paint line to eliminate mold without using toxic anti-microbial additives, expanded my consulting range around the world, and just recently became the newest board member of the International Institute for Building-Biology® & Ecology.  I am truly humbled.

Folks, in 2018 I’ll be guiding GDC to our 26th year in business.  26 years of doing our best to bring wellness to the world, one gallon of paint or one S’well bottle at a time.  Be on the lookout early in the year for the launch of out first privately labeled paint called CRAFTSMITH, which is the only organic plant oil paint made in the USA.  Toxin-free, HAP-free, and smooth as silk.  May you all have a joyous Christmas season and I look forward to serving you again in 2018!

Yours most sincerely,

Andrew Pace,

President, Green Design Center