Growth through collaboration: Why roofing peer groups matter

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Roofing company owners are turning to peer groups for smarter growth. 

As roofing contractors continue to face labor shortages, economic uncertainty, increasing competition and changing customer expectations, one thing has become very clear to me over the years, no one grows a successful roofing business alone. The most successful roofing company owners are constantly learning while sharing ideas and surrounding themselves with peers who understand the unique challenges of running a roofing business. 

That is why growth focused peer groups can be such a powerful tool for roofing contractors looking to build stronger, smarter and more profitable businesses. Service First Solutions is bringing roofing company owners together in peer groups designed specifically to help contractors focus on growth of their business. 

“Roofing company owners will come together to help focus on the common issues that are impacting roofing business growth,” said Tracey Donels, CEO and founder of Service First Solutions. “These peer groups are designed to help contractors grow their business, not sell it.”  

One of the greatest values of peer groups is the ability to talk openly with others who understand the realities of the roofing industry. From workforce challenges and operational efficiencies to service growth and profitability, roofing company owners often face similar issues but rarely have time to step back and learn from others. 

“Owners who are focused on growth need a place to discuss common issues openly,” Tracey shared. “The goal is to help contractors get more ideas and faster solutions while helping others from around the country in their group.”  

What stands out about this model is the intentional structure. Participants are placed in small groups with no competing contractors, helping create an environment of trust and transparency. Members also gain access to contractor shop tours, providing behind the curtain opportunities to see how other successful roofing companies operate. 

“Contractor shop tours offer behind the curtain views that can spark new ideas and better processes,” said Tracey. “Because there are no competing contractors in the groups, participants can be open and honest about challenges and opportunities.”  

Another major advantage is the blend of in person and virtual collaboration. The program includes two, multiple day, in person meetings each year alongside four virtual meetings.  The groups will also connect at in person events coordinated around industry gatherings whenever possible to help maximize time away from the office. 

“We understand roofing owners are busy,” Tracey noted. “That is why we coordinate in person meetings around industry events, when possible, to maximize time away from the office while still creating meaningful opportunities for growth and collaboration.”  

At RoofersCoffeeShop®, we believe education, collaboration and shared experiences are key drivers of success in roofing. Programs like this help contractors move beyond simply reacting to daily business challenges and instead focus on strategic growth with peers who understand the road ahead. 

“If you are serious about building a stronger, smarter and more profitable roofing company, this community is for you,” said Tracey. “We are bringing together commercial roofing professionals who are committed to helping each other succeed.”  

For contractors interested in learning more, Service First Solutions’ Growth Focused Peer Groups feature an annual enrollment of $6,000 and include up to two participants from each company. To learn more or enroll, email info@growroofservice.com.