The Merit Shop is a philosophy encouraging open competition and a Free Enterprise approach that awards construction contracts based solely on merit, regardless of labor affiliation. Merit Shop is not Union vs. non-Union; it's simply a way of doing business built on the system of free enterprise. Founded on this philosophy, Associated Builders & Contractors helps its members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically, & profitably for the betterment of the communities in which we live. Membership is available for General Contractors, Subcontractors, Suppliers, and Associates of the Commercial & Industrial sectors of construction industry.