Based on the comments of most manufacturers, Gold Crest Distributing of Mexico, Mo., is the fastest-growing distributor serving the needs of the Backyard Birding & Nature Industry. Gold Crest Distributing is unique because its only business is the backyard nature business. The company now stocks - and has available for same-day shipping - more than 3,000 items from more than 60 birding suppliers. Gold Crest currently serves more than 500 accounts in 41 states.

Gold Crest owner Mel Toellner said customer service is the key to the company's success and growth. "I believe service is the #1 reason we're growing so fast. Our people make the difference. I'm fortunate to have a staff that, #1 knows the birding industry, and, #2 really care and take care of our customers. I empower every employee to give money-back customer satisfaction, and they've responded by shipping 100 percent of orders received by 1 p.m. on the same day with a 99 percent fill rate."

Gold Crest Distributing builds two lines of wooden products - Songbird Cedar and Songbird Shake Shingle. The Songbird Cedar line has recently been improved by the attachment of "how to use" and product description labels (including bar codes) to each product. All bluebird houses are approved designs of the North American Bluebird Society and carry its seal of approval.

Another key to Gold Crest's growth is the company carries lines most other distributors don't. "We are constantly looking for new items for our retailers," Toellner said. Examples of unique products sold by Gold Crest include Birding Company, CareFree Enzyme Bird Bath Protectors, John Wright, Bird Quest, Original Mockingbird, and Yule Hyde. Gold Crest asks its retailers, "What do you wish we had?" and tries to respond.

Anyone requesting further information should call Gold Crest Distributing at 800-985-2473, or FAX: 866-340-9670.