Jordan Beckner, founding partner and President of Sales for FiberBuilt Umbrellas & Cushions, has been named Supplier of the Year by the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) at its 2025 Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala. The event took place at Henderson Beach Resort in Destin, where Beckner was also inducted into the FRLA Hall of Fame.
Carol Dover, President and CEO of FRLA, said: “Behind every great dining and lodging experience are suppliers who go above and beyond to support our industry’s success, and Jordan Beckner sets that high standard. Under Jordan’s leadership, FiberBuilt Umbrellas & Cushions has exemplified innovation, reliability, superior quality, and collaboration. Ever present and always engaged in our industry, Jordan’s dedication to supporting our operators and their guests makes him the perfect choice for our 2025 Supplier of the Year.”
The gala honors restaurant and lodging operators as well as suppliers from across Florida for their contributions to hospitality. The Hall of Fame distinction is given to leaders whose service has had a significant impact on the state’s hospitality sector.
In his acceptance remarks, Beckner stated: “On behalf of FiberBuilt Umbrellas & Cushions and my partner of 25 years, Paul Knapp, I am deeply honored to be recognized as the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Supplier of the Year. First and foremost, I want to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Any success I’ve achieved — in business or in life — is because of His grace, guidance, and the strength He provides. I truly believe that through faith, hard work, and perseverance, all things are possible.I also want to express my sincere gratitude to Carol Dover and her entire FRLA team. For nearly two decades, they have demonstrated unwavering leadership, built meaningful business relationships, and most importantly offered genuine friendship. It has been a privilege to work alongside such passionate advocates for Florida’s hospitality industry.To my incredible family — thank you for your constant love, encouragement,and understanding through every season of this journey. Your support gives me purpose and strength.And to our amazing employees —the heartand soulof FiberBuilt—this recognition belongs to you. Your dedication craftsmanship,and pridein what we do everydayare what makeour company exceptional.I am truly humbledby this honorand gratefulfor the opportunityto serve suchan inspiringindustry.Together,we will continueto strengthenandsupportFlorida’s hospitalitycommunityfor manyyearstocome.”
Beckner co-founded FiberBuilt Umbrellas in 2000 with Paul Knapp. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Northwood University as well as an MBA from South University in Savannah. Over his career he has participated actively in several industry organizations including serving on boards related to hotel education foundations both nationally with AHLA Educational Foundation Board of Trustees—and locally within FRLA itself—as well as being involved with educational programs at Forest Hill Community High School.
Founded in 1946 as a trade association representing restaurants across Florida before merging with hotel groups in 2006,the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association now counts more than 10 thousand members ranging from independent businesses,to major franchises,suppliers,and theme parks.The organization focuses on advocacy for its members’ interests,statewide training initiatives like Safe Staff food safety courses,and high school career-building programs via its Educational Foundation.
For further information about Jordan Beckner or FiberBuilt Umbrellas & Cushions,a video presentation is available through FRLA.
