Who We Are

On February 12, 1889, at the magnificent Centropolis Hotel on the corner of 5th and Grand in Kansas City, thirteen businessmen gathered to find a solution to a perplexing problem they all shared. The goals they set in 1889 still apply – to make the Association one of mutual benefit for all dealers in a profitable as well as social way.

Why Belong to MLA?

  1. Interact with real people in the industry. Despite the increase in the use of e-mail and web technologies for communicating with others, face-to-face interaction will never be extinct. While we’re strong advocates of technological advancement, MLA exists to serve as one of your primary links to your fellow colleagues, allowing you to put names with faces and keeping you in touch with who’s doing what.

  2. Sharpen your skills. By attending any of our educational sessions, seminars, or conferences, you’ll stay on top of your professional game. Taking advantage of your MLA’s educational opportunities allows you to update your crucial job skills and train your staff for the future.

  3. Understand new laws and regulations. As a member of MLA, you are also a member of the National Lumber & Building Material Dealers Association (NLBMDA). Together, MLA and NLBMDA actively work with members of Congress and various regulatory agencies to ensure your rights as a small business owner are considered and protected. MLA is also a member of various industry groups and coalitions to ensure you know exactly what laws, rules and regulations are impacting your business.

  4. Get frequent updates on industry changes. As change increases its pace, keeping track of the latest industry techniques and trends will be difficult. However, through our various publications and educational sessions, you’ll hear about the newest innovations.

  5. Industry standards. With constant changes occurring in the workplace, standards will continually need updating and you’ll need to know if you or your business are in sound standing. Through the sharing of best practices, MLA will keep you informed and assist you with ensuring your business is a premier place of employment and revered by members of your community.

  6. Save time and money. When seeking ideas and know-how for a specific project, don’t reinvent the wheel. MLA exists to serve as your primary resource of helpful tools and information to save you valuable time and money.  Use MLA’s buying power and let your membership work for you.

  7. Find business partners. As acquisitions and mergers become more frequent and strategic alliances and partnerships become the norm, you’ll find a sound business partner through your association.