PDCA in Munich - 2002

People that say they can't sleep on an airplane usually find a way when the trip literally absorbs the entire night. If you leave Chicago at 4:30 p.m. Central Time you will arrive in Munich, Germany about 10:30 a.m. the next day. About a 9 hour actual flight time and a 7 hour time loss helps define the size of that pond that separates North America and Europe. We all know how comfortable airline seating is, but, as you begin to feel the urge to get up and walk around , let me assure you that it was truly worth it.

I should mention that part of the PDCA delegation was on the same plane as I was.
Namely, Tom Lewis and Mario Guertin. Those of you that know these two gentlemen would know that Tom is always busy; working on his laptop, turning out bids, reviewing digital photos, etc. Mario loves to talk, but, I found out that after about 6 hours he will wear out. But, after a brief rest he is ready to go on all cylinders. Having left on April 10, it is now suddenly April 11.

We arrived our hotel by taxi and as we checked in we received news of the special events of the day. One of which was a special luncheon for V.I.P guests at the location of the FARBE 2002 show. This is an International Trade Fair for Paint, Decorating, and Building Protection that is organized by the German Association and held every 3 years. Mario dropped his bags in his room and without much waste of time was on his way to the luncheon. Tom and I thought it best to get organized and be at our best for the evening event. At the V.I.P. lunch, Mario found the rest of the PDCA delegation already at work. Ned Lyerly, Bob Herold, and Jim Schumacher were already acclimated to what was going on. The lunch was a prelude to the FARBE show. Those attending were then allowed to preview the show. Most of us think we know what a trade show is but this one is almost unbelievable. With about 450 exhibitors from about 20 countries, this preview was the beginning of what averaged over 15,000 visitors per day. The average booth appeared to be about 3000 square feet and it would be completely equipped with tables, chairs, food and beverage service. I think Ned will be able to make some suggestions to the Executives! Please review the photos below.

The UNIEP Meeting was held all day April 12. Those attending the meeting were about 35 people from 11 countries. The present UNIEP membership includes 18 countries. We have participated as guests for 3 years, now, and have committed to membership this year. I will include a fact sheet of UNIEP as an attachment to this report. While the size and format is similar to a PDCA Board meeting, the conversation was being translated into German, French, and English all simultaneously by interpreters, and transmitted through wireless headsets. Our friend Mr. Lopez, from Spain, was at a disadvantage this year. Recall, the meeting was in Barcelona, Spain last year. Nevertheless, the meeting resulted in adopting new bylaws that reflect the participation of the global community and more importantly, the vision of possibilities within that community. One of those possibilities stems from an e-mail I received from a gentleman from Ghana. He asked how his new association could find help in becoming aware of the new technologies, products, and application equipment. It seems evident that we can help each other , perhaps, more than we thought. I believe the UNIEP will consider establishing consultant type committees in various aspects of the painting industry to bring together the best thoughts the world has to offer. You see, the participating countries have some significant differences. For example, Germany has some 28,000 members in their association. At the same time, others are similar to our size....small. Of course, there are differences of economic structures between countries, but, we also think our states are much different from each other. The overriding factor for the UNIEP existence, as well as PDCA, is that we group together for the greater good of the industry. As we do that, we will be improving our individual future as well. I am convinced that focusing on common goals, solving common problems, and serving common needs is the route to success for PDCA and the entire world of the Painting Industry.

We have planted seeds that have already shown germination within the paint manufacturers marketing future. Specialty paint companies, particularly, will benefit by the exchange we share with other contractors of what we find successful in solving certain challenging paint situations. As contractors, if we know a product is out there somewhere that will solve our problem or make our profits higher we will influence those necessary to make the improvement. This works both ways, the European's products and application tools for masonry restoration left Tom Lewis [somewhat of an expert on restoration] breathless. He was thoroughly impressed and I expect thoroughly saturated with new ideas. I speculate that was the feeling shared by all who attended.

Back to the meeting, the order of business was relatively brief. Under the good of the order each country, in attendance, then reported current economic conditions and industry issues. I must confess, I diverted from that tradition of the group, and used our time allotted to speak of the vision and purpose that a global association such as UNIEP could play in the future. Even after all of that, they still encouraged us to be full-fledged members.

After lunch break, the group was presented three interesting speakers. The first discussed dirt and mildew. How to recognize the difference between the two and why it is important. European stucco composition is different than ours. You need to know, in Germany that they experience many cloudy days. Therefore, some interesting effects show up on exterior building surfaces. Second, we saw a slide presentation on the use of color for building exteriors. It is amazing how color patterns can make such change and send a message of appeal and feeling. Third, the reality of VOC issues is a major concern to contractors. Especially in France, where, still today, they use a very high percentage of solvent products.

The newly formed PDCA Council of Master Painters may already have the interest and support of the European countries. While I may not be a good example, there are those that truly love the craft of painting. That becomes clear within the vision of this new council. With that overwhelming commitment, those involved seek to learn from the best and share with pride the experience they have gained. It would only be natural then, to expect some format of recognition. To be recognized in your craft by the world sounds, to me, like pride of the highest level. I envy those with that talent and plan to support them in their achievement.

In conclusion, everything was well planned and done with excellence. The meals, the programs... everything was great. A few of us spent some time Sunday to tour the country side of Bavaria, see a few castles, purchase a few souvenirs and do what we could to enjoy Germany. We all have stories to tell. Talk to BobHerold, Ned Lyerly, Tom Lewis, Mario Guertin, or Jim Schumacher. We are all ready to share the experience. By the way, expect to see several European UNIEP members at the next PDCA convention.

By Jim Stelzer, Chairman International Relations Committee

Click on thumbnail photos below to enlarge for viewing.