The cabinet industry is experiencing significant changes right now, and savvy dealers are using this moment to provide real value to their customers. Here’s what’s happening and how you can turn it into a win-win for your business and your clients.

What’s Changing

Due to increased tariffs on imported cabinets, pricing across the industry is on the move. Many wholesalers and manufacturers have already implemented price increases, and more are coming in January. While the exact amounts vary by supplier, industry estimates suggest that a typical kitchen project could cost several thousand dollars more in 2026 than it does right now.

The good news? Matrix Cabinets is holding current pricing through the end of December. That means you have a limited window to offer your customers genuine savings.

Why This Matters to Your Customers

For homeowners planning kitchen renovations, timing just became very important. A project that’s already in the planning stages could cost significantly more if they wait until after the holidays. We’re not talking about small differences—the potential savings of purchasing now versus waiting until January could be $2,000-$5,000 or more on a typical kitchen, depending on the scope of the project.

Your customers are going to face these higher prices eventually. By reaching out now, you’re giving them the opportunity to lock in today’s pricing before it’s gone.

How to Use This Opportunity

This isn’t about pressuring anyone—it’s about making sure your customers have the information they need to make smart decisions. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Reach Out Proactively

Don’t wait for customers to come to you. Contact anyone who:

• Has asked for a quote in the last 3-6 months.
• Is “thinking about it” for next year.
• Mentioned they’re planning a kitchen project down the road.

Sample message: “Hi [Name], I wanted to reach out because there are some significant price increases coming to the cabinet industry in January. I know you were considering a kitchen project, and I wanted to make sure you’re aware that ordering before year-end could save you several thousand dollars. Would you like to discuss moving forward while current pricing is still available?”

2. Focus on the Timeline

Help customers understand exactly what needs to happen:

• Quote needs to be finalized.
• Order needs to be placed before December 31st.
• Installation can happen in January or later—the key is getting the order in.

Make it clear that they’re locking in the price now, but they don’t necessarily need to have everything installed before the holidays.

3. Provide Specific Value

When possible, show the math: “Based on the cabinets we discussed for your kitchen, ordering now versus waiting until January could save you approximately $3,500. That’s money you could put toward countertops, appliances, or other finishing touches.”

Real numbers make the opportunity concrete.

4. Make It Easy

Remove barriers to action:

• Offer to expedite quotes.
• Be flexible on deposit schedules if that helps.
• Provide clear, simple paperwork.
• Be available for quick phone calls or consultations.
• Offer Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) options.

The easier you make it to say yes, the more customers will take advantage of this opportunity.

Addressing Common Concerns

“I’m not ready to decide yet.” “I completely understand. Just know that the price difference in January will be real. Even if you’re not 100% certain on every detail, we can lock in pricing now and finalize the specifics before production. Would it help to run through the options one more time?”

“Can’t you just honor this price in January?” “I wish I could, but these increases are coming from our suppliers. The price we pay goes up, which means retail prices have to go up too. This isn’t something we control—it’s an industry-wide change.”

“Are you sure prices are going up?” “Yes. Many suppliers have already increased prices, and our wholesaler has confirmed that new pricing takes effect January 1st. This is happening across the board in the cabinet industry.”

The Bottom Line

This is a genuine opportunity to help your customers save money while growing your sales in what’s typically a slower season. The key is to communicate clearly, honestly, and proactively.

Your customers will appreciate the heads-up, and they’ll remember that you looked out for their interests. That’s the kind of service that builds long-term relationships and referrals.

Don’t let December slip by. Start reaching out today, and help your customers lock in pricing that won’t be available much longer.

---

Action Steps for This Week:

1. Make a list of everyone who’s inquired about kitchen projects in the past 6 months.
2. Draft your outreach message (email, text, or phone script).
3. Set aside time each day to make contact.
4. Follow up with anyone who expressed interest but hasn’t committed.

The clock is ticking, but there’s still time to make this a record-breaking finish to 2025!