Growth & Jobs | Fortford Foster: Fostering a career in furniture manufacturing

While he was still a teenager, Fortford Foster lost both parents within two years. That misfortune became a life-changing period for him as it launched him on his path to becoming a furniture manufacturer.

Foster currently operates Sunshine Furnishing Company on Water Lane in downtown Kingston, which manufactures wooden furniture. He has been at the location since 2000, when he became an entrepreneur. However, manufacturing furniture was the furthest thing from his mind in his early years.

"I lost both my parents while still in my teens and, therefore, never gave much thought as to what I wanted to become. However, when my parents passed on, I went to live with my grandfather, who was a carpenter, in Old Harbour, St Catherine. I remember going with him to work, especially during the holidays, to learn the skill. And, I used the opportunity to enhance myself and build a career," explained Foster.

The Black River Secondary past student has been doing carpentry since 1985. After learning enough and earning positive reviews, he decided to establish his own company.

"People were happy with my work," he stated. "My grandfather was good at what he did. I learned from him and decided to be my own boss, which is how my business came about."

THE BUSINESS

Foster manufactures beds, wardrobes, tables, dressers, and other furniture items. His business employs seven persons. His day starts at 9 a.m. and ends about 8 p.m., depending on demand for his furniture.

"There are times when we work later, based on contracts for major and small furniture retailers, if the volume demands putting in extra hours. When that happens, we are here even on Sundays to meet the orders."

Despite being happy with his chosen career path, the father of four admits that the furniture business has its share of challenges.

"The cost of lumber is a major issue," he explained. "Sometimes the price increases, after you have already agreed a production cost, and based on the contract, can't renegotiate. When that happens, it becomes difficult, and you need to be creative to source what you need," he explained.

To circumvent that challenge, Foster and his team do research to find the best and most affordable raw material. He also buys lumber in bulk to ensure that he can adequately price the finished product. The St Elizabeth native also points to his ability to be innovative as one of the reasons he has been in the business for the past 18 years.

"We change our designs every six months or so, to keep our clients interested. We also use the best quality wood available, to ensure that the customers get what they desire. That option has helped us gain more customers and satisfy the demands of our existing ones," he explained.

Foster, who is passionate about the redevelopment of downtown Kingston wants to expand his operations even more. When he first wanted to add more equipment, he turned to JN Small Business Loans JNSBL for assistance.

"My relationship with JNSBL dates back to 2012, when a friend recommended the loan company," he explained. "She told me that they would assist me despite not having collateral. And also, there was not a lot of red tape to navigate to access the funds. I went and they assisted me," he stated, adding, "The service is excellent, and their credit relations officers are always willing to assist."

... Passionate about his craft

Gillian Hyde, general manager, JNSBL, said Foster is passionate about his craft and the expansion of small businesses in Jamaica.

"He really enjoys his craft and is always pleased when his customers are satisfied. He wants small businesses to lead the revival of downtown Kingston and was willing to assist his fellow entrepreneurs in their time of need. We have enjoyed a good relationship with him over the years and will continue working with him," she stated.

In addition to his passion for promoting entrepreneurship, Foster is keen to grow his business. He markets himself through referrals and the quality of his work. He is also willing to assist his employees where possible and describes his management style as being "firm, but friendly".

"I listen to their needs and try to be approachable because it is important that your staff members can be comfortable around you, as it helps to maintain a positive work environment," he explained.

He also has plans for the future.

"It is my hope to expand into marketing some of my furniture items directly and to employ more persons so that if anything happens to me, my children will have the support they need. My daughter, who is doing medicine, has an interest, and I hope that she will be a part of the sales operation at some point," he stated.