TIMES TALK BY HEIDI SELLECK
Let me introduce you to Ray Chang, Account Specialist with Kitting LA and the company that’s providing the kitting for SAAC’s 1st ever unbagging ceremony in July.
1. Can you share with me your favorite things about our business and what keeps you involved? What pearls of wisdom would you offer young people entering our industry today?
The community that our industry offers is close knit and inclusive at the same time. Because our industry is so customer service oriented, my colleagues are above and beyond friendly and supportive. I truly look forward to seeing them.
Advice to younger generation would be to understand the value of face-to-face interaction. Be brave and ask for help and mentorship. Go above and beyond. Get the job done.
2. When were you first introduced to SAAC and when did you become a member? How has SAAC helped you as a regional to strengthen your relationships with suppliers and your industry friends?
PPAI requires you to be a member of your local organization and SAAC was ours. We became a member in 2024. It has since become my industry home. I have made lifelong friends with SAAC members and owe much
of our growth to them. It is never “What can I get?” but rather, “How can we help?”
3. What does LA Kitting offer Distributors? What makes your company unique?
We are the kitting and fulfillment appendage to distributors. We are space that you don’t have. We are extra hands that can handle large orders or overflow. We are your partners that know that no matter how many
times your clients have caused delays, it must get out. The other thing to keep in mind is that we have helped close deals for our distributors by securing lower shipping rates and providing services like storefronts. We understand the promotion world in a way not all 3PLs do.
4. How’s your board position as the government affairs chair going? What do you like about SAAC and what would you change?
I am thrilled to be the Government Affairs Committee Chair. We are connecting community and local and state government with our industry. I want our regional businesses to thrive. The one wish I have for
SAAC is to grow membership. Our region is so important to the world economy and if we stand together, we can affect policy instead of reacting to it.
5. Last year was the first time you attended SAAC expo. What did you think? And are you excited of it being in Long Beach?
The SAAC Expo was a game changer for us. We got to know our fellow exhibitors. We had multiple inquiries the next day. Bob, our Executive director, introduced me to a client that have become beloved partners.
It is a MUST for our industry. Long Beach is a legit destination. I am super excited that we will be there this year.
See you at the SAAC Expo in August!