Rising from the Ashes: The Restoration of CMS

In September 2011, a catastrophic fire sparked by a paint combustion in the neighboring warehouse devastated our premises at CMS. The blaze was intense, leading to the closure of nearby roads as emergency services worked fervently to extinguish the flames. The aftermath was heartbreaking, with the majority of our inventory destroyed and our office space obliterated.

However, at CMS, adversity strengthens our resolve. Rooted deeply in our core values, we were determined to rise from the ashes, embodying each principle in our path to recovery.

Rebuilding with Purpose

The fire tested our resilience but also emphasized the core values that define us at CMS:

• Integrity: We faced this crisis with transparency, keeping our clients and partners fully informed every step of the way, ensuring that every decision was made with sincerity and honesty.
• Reliability: Even in the face of disaster, we worked tirelessly to minimize disruptions and maintain the dependable service our customers expect from us.
• Accountability: We took full responsibility for rebuilding and restoring operations, ensuring that every step taken was thoughtful and precise, aiming for a stronger comeback.
• Adaptability: Moving initially to a temporary warehouse in Wyoming, MI, and later to our current location at 3500 Patterson Ave. Suite D in Grand Rapids, MI, we embraced the necessity for change and used it as a springboard for innovation.
• Determination: Our collective will to overcome this ordeal was unwavering. We were committed not only to recover but to emerge stronger and more cohesive than ever before.

New Beginnings

Our journey to recovery was steeped in our core values. By embracing these principles, we not only rebuilt our physical assets but also reinforced our commitment to our community and our clients. Our new facilities are more than just buildings; they are a testament to the resilience and spirit of CMS.

Lessons Learned and Future Forward

The lessons from the fire are deeply ingrained in our operations today. We have implemented robust disaster recovery plans and have enhanced our risk management strategies to safeguard against future emergencies.

Today, our facilities stand as a beacon of our resilience and dedication—a symbol of what can be achieved when a community pulls together and a business stands firm on its foundational values. The fire of 2011, while a formidable challenge, set the stage for a period of significant growth and innovation that continues to propel us forward.

At CMS, we turn challenges into opportunities. The restoration of our business post-fire is a clear indication of our unwavering commitment to our core values. Through adversity, we have not only survived; we have thrived, coming back stronger and more dedicated than ever to serving our community with integrity, reliability, accountability, adaptability, and determination.