A Message from Peter, Owner and CEO of Turkstra

To Our Customers, Vendors, and Business Partners

As you know, residential construction, renovations, and retail sales have been in decline since the tail end of the COVID-19 pandemic. When even Canadian Tire sounds the alarm on consumer spending, you know we have a significant problem with Canadian affordability

We understand it is hard for many construction professionals to speak up, fearing bureaucratic and petty repercussions. However, the cumulative impact of fees and red tape is destroying our vital industry. Our only goal is to improve your chances of success. The bottom line is that even before tariffs, our economy and construction environment were already a mess.

Tariff Concerns

The recent 25% tariffs on US imports and Canadian exports have created significant challenges for our operations. To mitigate the impact, we are exploring alternative suppliers within Canada and North America to diversify our supply chain and reduce dependency on US imports. This will help maintain competitive pricing.

Since 1953, Turkstra has prioritized local and Canadian manufacturers, with almost 100% of our lumber, pressure treated lumber, and plywood coming from Canadian mills. Where things get more complicated is with products like windows, drywall, siding, interior doors and shingles. Most of these products are made in Canada, but have components from US and international sources. This means that although they may not see a 25% surcharge from tariffs, they will likely still see an increase.

Currently, we do not have all the answers. Our commitment to our customers is to remain transparent and "on the level." We will inform you as we receive price increases from our vendors, we will also continue to look for creative solutions to reduce the impact of these punishing taxes.

The Biggest Issues Facing Construction:

• Ineffective municipal policies with a lack of support for development
• The highest distribution charges in North America – 25-30% of townhouse costs are fees/taxes, not materials, labour or subtrades - purely taxation
• Soaring costs – $100K-$200K per home, at 5% interest, have tipped the scales. Banks wont lend, builders can't build and consumers absorb over 25% higher prices. Considering the end user pays these extra costs, and is typically financed, the cost (after interest) is no longer affordable
• Fees, fees, and more fees
• Endless red tape and bureaucracy – driving up costs dramatically
  

How Turkstra Will Respond to This Recession/Depression for 2025:

1. No significant layoffs – even if we "bleed" or lose money
2. Commitment to supporting local businesses and our vendors
3. We will do our best to support you if you need help
   

What Needs to Change:

• Reduce development charges
• Reduce all fees related to construction projects
• Reduce crippling red tape and bureaucracy
• Government Attitude - a focus on supporting their customers (the construction industry and the end user), and professional and timely responses. The construction industry needs to be treated as a valued partner.
  

We're in This Together

I am amazed by the entrepreneurial spirit of all our customers. We are grateful for your support and will always do our best for you.

Thank you

Peter Turkstra

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