For a company that’s been in business 118 years, making upgrades isn’t an option, it’s a necessity. That’s why Butch Welsch, president of Welsch Heating & Cooling Co., St. Louis, always makes sure to stick to one key principle despite the rapidly changing times we live in: First impressions are everything.

While the efficiency of commercial buildings has improved significantly in recent decades, the building industry has only begun to tap the energy reserves trapped in underperforming facilities.

Based on our economic situation and the tough business world it might be a long shot for a company to last 10 years or 10 months. Sure, you might be at the top of your game and market this year, but where will you be in five, 10, or 40 years?