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Partiers Win More Business: How Events Strengthen Industry Relationships

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Networking has always been a cornerstone of success in commercial flooring. But some members are proving that the best relationships, and the best results, are often forged not in the boardroom, but at the barbecue. Across the Starnet network, members who host professional, well-planned social events are seeing the business rewards of investing in connection, camaraderie, and community.

Kellen Flooring Solutions recently hosted an outstanding BBQ Cook-Off Party that brought together more than 100 customers and vendor partners. With exceptional barbecue, live music, and a lively atmosphere, the event created memorable shared experiences that translated into stronger relationships long after the grills cooled.

The Cloud’s with M. Frank Higgins hosted an unforgettable Halloween party, welcoming more than 100 customers, designers, and vendors to a creative night of costumes, conversation, and collaboration. The event was a standout example of how thoughtful planning and creative themes can make business gatherings both fun and strategically impactful.

Both events were hosted onsite at member facilities — a detail that gave guests a firsthand look at the companies’ culture, team, and commitment to partnership. Yes, it takes planning, logistics, and resources. But as many members have discovered, the investment pays off many times over, with enthusiastic support often provided by generous vendor partners who understand that these shared experiences build stronger, more successful connections across the industry.

Why Great Parties Build Great Business

Research supports what many in the Starnet community already know: people do business with people they trust and enjoy spending time with. According to Harvard Business Review, informal social settings foster trust and empathy — two factors that directly influence long-term partnership success. Likewise, studies from Forbes reveal that companies investing in relationship-based networking often see higher client retention and greater cross-collaboration with suppliers and partners.

For the commercial flooring industry, this means that a well-executed customer or vendor appreciation event is more than just a good time — it’s a strategic move. It strengthens vendor alignment, deepens customer loyalty, and helps position your company as an active, engaged leader in your local market.

Plan Your 2026 Event

With another busy year ahead, now is the perfect time to start planning your next customer and vendor appreciation event. Whether it’s a seasonal celebration, community outing, or creative theme night, partner with your vendors early, involve your team, and design something memorable.

After all, as many successful members have shown — when you invest in relationships, you inevitably win more business.

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Sources:

Brett, J. M., & Mitchell, T. (2020, January 31). Research: How to build trust with business partners from other cultures. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2020/01/research-how-to-build-trust-with-business-partners-from-other-cultures

Forbes Business Council. (2025, July 30). Relationship marketing: Building authentic customer connections. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/councils/  forbesbusinesscouncil/ 2025/07/30/relationship-marketing-building-authentic-customer-connections/

Building a GEP. (2024, February 1). Supplier collaboration: The key to enterprise success. GEP Blog. https://www.gep.com/blog/strategy/supplier-collaboration-the-key-to-enterprises-success

Forbes Agency Council. (2023, August 18). 3 effective ways to build lasting client relationships. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/councils/ forbesagencycouncil/2023/08/18/3 -effective- ways- to-build-lasting-client-relationships/