Add a Little Culture to your Life

http://www.instoneco.com

Free Website to select installers

A big part of getting leads is to properly market your business. In order to get found by more potential business it is imperative to get online with a website. Our goal at Instone is to get every Select Installer online in 2010. We are now offering a free website and an email address. You must Contact me as soon as possible, we cannot extend this offer past April 15, 2010.

Sincerely
Cathy Williams – Marketing Manager
c.williams@instoneco.com
p-888-467-8250, f-609-208-2551

Instone expands into the Midwest

Istone
Instone expands into Midwest market – becoming one of the largest US distributors of masonry products…
Instone moves into the Midwest market place with the acquisition of Hearth and Home Technologies building materials division, making Instone one of the largest masonry wholesale distributors covering the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast and the Midwest United States.
Alsip, Ill , February 23, 2010: Instone, a New Jersey based company who is one of the largest wholesale distributor of Owens Corning Cultured Stone® in the United States, distributing from Maine to Virginia, now moves into the Midwest market with the acquisition of the Hearth & Home Technologies Alsip building materials distribution center. When Hearth & Home Technologies became available for sale, Gordon Strout President and CEO of Instone saw the opportunity as vital to the continued growth of the company. “In spite of the sluggish economy this was an opportunity to position ourselves in a market place with huge growth potential” said Strout. “We may never see housing starts as in 2006 but we are confident that the market is returning to a level that will allow for growth opportunity and being in this region is how we plan on accomplish this” remarks Strout.
This as an opportunity for Intone to move into the mid-west market and looks to duplicate the success it has seen in the east.. Owens Corning Cultured® Stone Division supports the acquisition and the entrance into this new market by Instone. “We have a strong platform to build off of, our staff out of Chicago has built a wonderful masonry distribution business over the past 25 years with Cultured Stone® and other key suppliers. We look forward to the opportunity to build upon this heritage.”
Heading up the Instone Midwest Region will be Kevin Grotke. Kevin joins Instone after spending the past 10 years at Owens Corning in various Operational, Sales and Marketing roles for the Cultured Stone® business. Kevin looks to build upon the strong relationship between the dealers in this market, Owens Corning and other strategic suppliers for success.
Instone is Headquartered in Millstone Township NJ for more information on Instone Please visit http://www.instoneco.com/ or please contact Cathy Williams Marketing Manager of Instone 888-467-8250 c.williams@instoneco.com

Selling Stone in 2010

Hey Masons-

Looks like 2010 will be another tough road but you can't hide under a rock till its over. What can we do? Take advantage of every opportunity, relationship, free service, and leave no stone unturned (LOL).

Here are some tips that had been given to me years ago when I started my first business.

I was advise to tell everyone who will listen about my business. That’s because everyone knows at least 6 people that might need your product or services. So the next time you go to a party, little league game, or sit in a waiting room start blabbing about what you do. You never know who is listening.

2. Carry business cards - there is no excuse not to always have them on you. Freely give them out, Business cards are cheap and easy to make on any home computer. The best investment you will make.

3. Collect contact information from everyone you meet- This is a great way to build a marketing list. Reach out to them again via phone , email or mail. Think future! When they or someone they know is ready you will be fresh in their minds because you stayed in front of them with your message and sales pitch.

4. Give referrals to get referrals: Like many of the organized business networking associations promote, you can do the same thing among the people that you already give/do business: like your landscaper, plumber, electrician, web designer, car mechanic, hair dresser, and others. Let them know that you are happy to refer them to others and you'd appreciate them doing the same even. It shouldn't matter if you did not actually provide a service or product to them. I'm sure they would gladly accommodate. Make sure that they have your business card or a flyer to give out too.

5. There is no better new customer than a previous one. The easiest way to get new business is to revisit happy customers. Give them a call, see if you can be of service; ask if they know anyone one that they can refer. Offer a referal gift for every closed lead.

Please visit the Instone website to learn about our product lines, request Catalogs, or to find out how to become a dealer or select installer.

http://www.instoneco.com/

Pumpkin Martini a new tradition

The Pumpkin Martini has long been a favorite cocktail for fall. Although it has recently become difficult, well impossible, to find pumpkin schnapps or any pumpkin liqueur. Until another pumpkin liqueur comes on the market again you can substitute pumpkin spice syrup or pumpkin puree. You might also want to check out the Pumpkin Spice Martini, the Pumpkin Divine or the Calabatini.
Ingredients:
1/2 oz Sylk Cream Liqueur
2 oz vanilla vodka
1/2 oz pumpkin liqueur or pumpkin spice syrup
1 tsp whipped cream
cinnamon stick for garnish
Preparation:
Pour the Sylk Liqueur and vodka into a shaker filled with ice.
Shake well.
Add the pumpkin liqueur or syrup.
Shake again.
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Top with a teaspoon of whipped cream.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Happy Thanksgiving from Instone

Semco thin cut natural stone brings nature indoors

Brought to you by Instone distributor of exceptional manufactured and natural stone veneer products



Semco Natural Thin Cut stone veneer. Get the richness of real stone with out the complications, Semco brings nature indoors.

When you want the very best.
Sustaining natural beauty. Durability that stands up to time and to home design trends. Semco delivers a large selection of natural stone veneer colors, textures and sizes.



Why real stone?

Semco Thin Cut Natural Stone veneer is quarried machine cut or split, creating a natural thin cut stone veneer. Semco installs the same as manufactured stone veneer and has the same benefits when it comes to application. Semco natural stone has life long lasting durability. From the earth to your home. Semco natural stone veneer, stands the test of time.
Please do not hesitate to contact Instone for more information, catalogs or to speak to an Instone Sales Manager. With over 250 dealers and 300 masons we can assist you with your home improvement project.
Contact Instone today 888-467-8250
Instone a Master Distributor of exceptional manufactured stone veneer and natural thin cut stone veneer products. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=d4ji44cab.0.0.ql9xazcab.0&ts=S0414&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.instoneco.com%2F&id=preview 888-467-8250
PO BOX 36 Millstone Township NJ 08510

September is Fireplace Month

September is Fireplace Month
Wouldn't you love a fireplace? Fall is in the air and the aroma of burning wood mixed in with cool night air makes you want to curl up in front of your very own fireplace. That's why we've proclaimed September Fireplace month. Fireplaces are one home improvement that can increase the value and enjoyment of your home now and when you sell. View our website for design ideas and to design your own fireplace with our design software. Please contact us to find a mason or dealer near you. http://www.instoneco.com/