The Birth of a New Countertop Brackets Category
In 2008, Federal Brace transformed the woodworking industry by creating a new product category: high load capacity metal countertop brackets. This innovation has since reshaped how contractors, designers, and homeowners approach new kitchen and bathroom renovation projects across the United States.
Nelson Wills, General Manager of Short Run Pro, the parent company of Federal Brace, explains, “Federal Brace invented the countertop bracket category 15 years ago.” This groundbreaking move filled a gap in the market, providing a solution for extending counter space and maximizing square footage in both residential and commercial properties.
From Custom Countertop Brackets to Market Leader
The genesis of Federal Brace’s success stems from its roots in Short Run Pro, established in 2006 by Scott Toal and his brothers. Their initial offering, Pro-Quote, allowed customers to design custom brackets tailored to their specific needs in small run production quantities. This customer-centric approach laid the foundation for Federal Brace’s future product lines and market dominance.
Recognizing the potential of their innovation, Federal Brace launched the first website-friendly countertop bracket support category. This wise choice expanded their product’s reach nationwide, increasing their brand’s visibility and benefiting the countertop support industry.
Wills highlights the impact of their products on the new construction and renovation sectors: “We help your customers upsell, sell more of their stuff, by providing the end user with solutions to grow their square footage and realize new space.” This ability to add value to projects has made Federal Brace a favorite among contractors and designers.
Expanding Product Range and Innovation
As the countertop bracket category gained traction, Federal Brace expanded its product range to meet diverse woodworking needs. Their lineup now includes floating shelf brackets, complete floating shelf systems, vanity supports, and various support brackets solutions.
The company’s product line is designed to maximize functionality while promoting attractive décor. Federal Brace follows industry trends and listens closely to customer needs in creating products that meet practical specifications and installer requirements.
The company’s commitment to quality and innovation has been crucial in scaling their business. “There are no shortcuts with quality manufacturing,” Wills asserts. Federal Brace’s products are ISO certified and manufactured in North Carolina, using domestic materials. Their commitment to quality has gained them loyal customers who understand the value in sourcing dependable, American-made goods.
Federal Brace’s success is also attributed to their unique design process. Wills explains, “We grow through innovation, developing new applications, new solutions, and we do that from the installer’s point of view.” By prioritizing ease of installation and practicality, Federal Brace has become a preferred choice for professionals in the field.
The company’s vertically integrated structure allows for rapid response to market trends and customer needs. Federal Brace is able to introduce new products and improve existing ones quickly. This keeps them ahead of their competitors in the industry. Their agility allows them to stay at the forefront of the market.
Impact and Future Focus on Countertop Brackets
Federal Brace’s impact extends beyond their product line. By manufacturing in the USA, they’ve created jobs and supported local economies. “We’re proud to support other companies with jobs across the United States,” Wills states, underscoring the company’s commitment to American manufacturing.
As Federal Brace continues to evolve, they remain focused on customer satisfaction and product excellence. Their efficient operations ensure quick turnaround times, with most orders shipping within 24 hours of receipt. This reliability has solidified Federal Brace’s position as a leader in the countertop support and bracket industry.
Federal Brace provides a variety of strong and stylish brackets for woodworkers, contractors, and homeowners to elevate their projects. Federal Brace continues shaping interior design and construction from their original metal supports to their latest innovations.
As the pioneers of the countertop bracket category, Federal Brace has not only created a new market but has also set the standard for quality, engineering, design and innovation in the industry. Their journey from a custom metal fabrication shop to a national brand exemplifies the power of identifying market needs and delivering superior solutions.
