January 2010 - The ability to turn a bad situation into a positive opportunity could be viewed as the ultimate test of a company's strength. Even in a down economy, and within struggling industries, growth can happen. It takes great patience, perseverance and judiciousness, but companies can use sluggish market conditions as a chance to redefine their business--and, if conditions allow it, even make significant advancements.

Eddie Kane Steel Products Inc., Spring Lake, N.J., a carbon and alloy steel distributor, has proven itself an exception to current market conditions by recently opening two new sales, distribution and processing centers, one in Chicago and one in Los Angeles.

"Opening two new facilities shows that Eddie Kane Steel Products has remained focused on its goals of providing superior customer service and strengthening vendor partnerships," says Augustine Kane, president of the company. "One of our stated goals has always been to better serve our customers by offering personalized service and by adding more value while reducing costs through growth opportunities. In the face of today's enormous economic challenges, Eddie Kane Steel Products has remained committed to its goals, as demonstrated by these strategic expansions."

Customer focus
With locations already established in Spring Lake; Masury, Ohio; and Ahoskie, N.C., Eddie Kane chose Chicago and Los Angeles because of the logistical benefits of reaching customers in those areas.

"Chicago and Los Angeles have strategic advantages in that we're able to eliminate logistical costs through the proximity to our vendors and these savings will in turn be passed on to our customers," says Kane. "Eddie Kane Steel had identified these markets as key locations for additional warehouse and processing facilities, and by opening these facilities, we have achieved our goals."

Established in 2000 and first expanding into Ohio in 2005, Eddie Kane Steel has deliberately added processing capabilities to better service its varied customer needs. These capabilities include oxy-fuel flame cutting, high-definition plasma cutting, shearing, bending, Blanchard grinding, heat treat and light machining.

Ultimately, Kane says a sharp focus and the ability to recognize a strong opportunity when it presents itself are keys for companies looking to grow or refine their business, in up times and in down times.

"Stay focused on your goals," says Kane. "An important way to achieve your goals is to grab opportunities that allow you to reduce costs while building and strengthening customer and vendor relationships." MM