Jobhan Randhawa, director of operations of A-1 Pallets Inc of Kent Washington, discusses life in a family business, a Millennial’s point of a view and thoughts on the future.
PALLET ENTERPRISE: As a second-generation company leader, what have you learned from those older in your family that guides your philosophy? How are you different from your father in your management approach?
Randhawa: I have learned many important leadership skills from my father. One of his core values is staying true to his word. The only difference between my father and I is that I have adopted best practices in tools and technology to help our employees be more efficient.
PALLET ENTERPRISE: As a Millennial, what do you think is a misconception about your generation? Why do you think this belief exists?
Randhawa: I have been blessed to have great role models that have guided me through my life journey, strategizing my every move with how and when to apply the resources that are available at my disposal. Although I know many people generalize Millennials as disloyal, fun seeking, and short-term thinkers, I have not experienced that as I have many Millennials as friends who are goal driven, passionate and driven to contribute to the society in a positive way.
PALLET ENTERPRISE: With all the recent consolidation in the pallet industry, is your company changing its strategy at all? If so, how?
Randhawa: Our core principles of taking care of people in business have remained the same; what has changed are our processes in delivering our products more efficiently.
PALLET ENTERPRISE: How is automation changing the pallet industry? What is one machine that doesn’t exist on the market that would make your operation run smoother?
Randhawa: Streamlining the processes in our front office to the production floor and delivery. Allowing for greater efficiency to fulfill our promises to both our employees and our customers. What we lack is a machine that repairs GMA pallets.
PALLET ENTERPRISE: What are you most excited about right now when it comes to your family business and its future?
Randhawa: Expanding our footprint by collaborating with our vendors and partners. We are adding additional facilities and consolidating some in the next five years. With young management, we bring fresh new ideas to the table that have the potential to improve efficiency in the operations.
PALLET ENTERPRISE: How has the pandemic changed your business? Do you think these trends will last?
Randhawa: Our pricing structure has changed significantly, as we are unable to commit to a longer-term pricing model. With the rise in material costs, transportation costs and labor shortage, we were unable to stick with our pricing model. I hope these pricing constraints are not a long-term trend. We want them to go away very soon.
