AAMA Members Raise Concerns Regarding Proposed Consolidation with the WDMA

The meeting room was full yesterday as attendees participated in the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) consolation discussion held during AAMA's National Fall Meeting in Tuscon, Ariz. An update about the proposed consolidation of the two organizations was given and it was reported that 64 percent of members who responded to the recent AAMA survey said they want to continue negotiations to merge.

Among some of the concerns brought to the table were issues with a single-certification program, the job description of the chief executive, a draft of the by-laws and cultural issues.

"Negotiations have been tough and very frustrating. We've got a lot to consider and a lot to think about, and we're not trying to ram this thing down your throats," said Chris Fuldner, of EFCO Corp., and a member of the AAMA Consolidation Team. "I don't want to make this sound rosy. There are some tough times ahead."

Jeff Lowinski, acting president of the WDMA, concluded with a positive statement from his association.

"The consolidation team remains committed to the consolidation effort. Yes, there are concerns. We want to build the new organization to do the best we can do. We're committed to the next meeting. We're all getting very weary through this."