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A Hatton-Brown Publication www.poweret.com
Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. Street Address: 225 Hanrick Street Montgomery, AL 36104-3317 Mailing Address P.O. Box 2268 Montgomery, AL 36102-2268 Tel: (334) 834-1170 Fax: (334) 834-4525
Give Us Your Thoughts JESSICA JOHNSON
O
ne of my favorite college professors used to say, “The best thing a writer can do is listen.” Now, he was a poetry professor at a large state university, so it’s to be determined what sort of listening he meant. We often had class outside at the various green spaces around campus, where he’d read a few poems and we then were sent out to “create.” I still have my notebook from that class filled with ugly doodles, snippets of “creations” and a large mosaic of magazine clippings that I used to make my final project. Sadly, no chain saws or mowers present. But, the advice has held up well and I am going to put it to use here. Typically, we save quotable quotes for the end of the year, when everything is being wrapped up into a bow and chapters are being closed. Instead, I thought I would turn over this space, where I typically offer my opinion on a topic, to the 120 dealers who answered a simple question: Your predictions for power equipment industry’s future or other thoughts and comments. Boy, dealers sure do have opinions. But, I want to start with this one. The one we all already know—just in case, as the world gets a little wonky, you need the reminder of hope it brought me. ● “I am optimistic about future opportunities available to outdoor power dealers due to technology within the industry.”
On the flip side, we have this one, which honestly just made me snicker, as I can imagine how many might also laugh out loud at this as well. ● “It’s going to hell in a hand basket.” Truly, I wonder if this comment is about the power equipment industry specifically or the world at large as it is applicable to most situations in 2020. This response is something I’ve talked to manufacturers about for years, which of course always makes me really popular with product managers who don’t want to hear a millennial dragging battery products! ● “The one impact battery products will make that virtually no one is talking about is the loss of parts and service revenue to the average dealer. It obviously can’t be stopped. But the industry can’t have their collective heads in the sand on this reality. A spring rush just won’t be the same without the mower tune-ups. It doesn’t just affect dealers. The loss of parts sales will affect OEMs as well.” —Robert Conyea, Ashokan Turf, Shokan, NY Taking care of customers is critical, but don’t forget to take care of your employees, not only with verbal praise but also tangible things. Don’t keep them in the dark about your business. ● “Cost factors for wages/benefits/taxes/etc. must be kept under control. Listening to your employees and customers for ideas to make business more profitable and a place customers will want to return and tell their friends to try your establishment. Keep employees happy with praise/small gifts (gift cards, cash, I have found that $20 worth of lottery tickets is a big reward that my employees like). Be upfront with your employees with all levels of business. Share with them the cost factors in the benefits that are offered and how it is necessary for them to help share costs. Give raises when and where possible.” —John Gibson, Gibson Interprises, Fresno, Calif. To close, the old classic: “Take care of your customers and you’ll be fine.”
Contact Jessica Johnson, ph: 334-834-1170; fax 334-834-4525; e-mail: jessica@hattonbrown.com
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Publisher/Adv. Sales Manager David H. Ramsey Chief Operating Officer Dianne C. Sullivan Editor-in-Chief n Rich Donnell Managing Editor n Jessica Johnson Senior Editor n Dan Shell Senior Assoc. Editor n David Abbott Associate Editor n Patrick Dunning Contributing Writers Greg German, Sam Stearns Publisher/Editor Emeritus David (DK) Knight Art Director n Cindy Segrest Ad Prod. Coordinator n Patti Campbell Circulation Director n Rhonda Thomas Marketing/Media n Jacqlyn Kirkland Advertising Sales Southern U.S. Randy Reagor Tel: (904) 393-7968 Fax: (334) 834-4525 E-mail: randy@hattonbrown.com Midwest U.S., Eastern Canada John Simmons Tel: (905) 666-0258 Fax: (905) 666-0778 E-mail: jsimmons@idirect.com Western U.S. & Canada Susan Windham Tel: (334) 834-1170 Fax: (334) 834-4525 Email: windham.susan4@gmail.com Europe & Scandinavia Murray Brett Tel: +34 96 640 4165 +34 96 640 4048 Email: murray.brett@abasol.net Distributor Library Kathy Sternenberg Tel: (251) 928-4962 ksternenberg@bellsouth.net Classified Advertising Bridget DeVane Tel: (334) 699-7837 (800) 669-5613 bdevane7@hotmail.com Reprint Sales Patti Campbell Tel: (800) 669-5613 patti@hattonbrown.com
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Volume 69
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Number 3
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JUNE 2020
Our 738th Consecutive Issue
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Founded in 1952
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FEATUREstories
10 2020 DEALER SURVEY: SAW SPEC CHARTS 20 26 SAW PRODUCTS 30 ROTARY SAW TEAM Better Than We Thought
Back Again Baby
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You Need Now
Steps Up For Community
VALUEadded Power Suppliers __________________________ 6 Distributor Library ________________________ 32 PowerWorks ____________________________ 36 PETcetera/Ad Index ______________________ 37 Dealer to Dealer _________________________ 38
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COVERphoto Northwest Logging Supply goes back eight decades and owner Alex Botten has been there for three of them. He’s seen a lot and remains true to the shop’s saw focused roots, while also meeting the changing and growing market demand. Story begins on Page 14. (Photo by Dan Shell; cover design by Shelley Smith)
Member Verified Audit Circulation Power Equipment Trade (ISSN 1063-0414) is published 6 times annually (February, April, June, August, October and December) by Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc., 225 Hanrick St., Montgomery, AL 36104. Subscription Information—PET is sent free to qualifying industry professionals in the U.S. All non-qualified U.S. subscriptions are $55 annually; $65 in Canada; $95 (Airmail) in all other countries (U.S. funds). Single copies, $5 each; special issues, $20 (U.S. funds). Subscription Inquiries—TOLL-FREE 800-669-5613; Fax 888-611-4525. Go to www.poweret.com and click on the subscribe button to subscribe/renew via the web. All advertisements for Power Equipment Trade magazine are accepted and published by Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. with the understanding that the advertiser and/or advertising agency are authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The advertiser and/or advertising agency will defend, indemnify and hold Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. harmless from and against any loss, expenses, or other liability resulting from any claims or lawsuits for libel violations or right of privacy or publicity, plagiarism, copyright or trademark infringement and any other claims or lawsuits that may arise out of publication of such advertisement. Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. neither endorses nor makes any representation or guarantee as to the quality of goods and services advertised in Power Equipment Trade. Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. reserves the right to reject any advertisement which it deems inappropriate. Copyright ® 2020. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Ala. and additional mailing offices. Printed in USA.
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Postmaster: Please send address changes to Power Equipment Trade, P.O. Box 2419, Montgomery, Alabama 36102-2419. Other Hatton-Brown Publications: Timber Harvesting n Southern Loggin’ Times n Timber Processing n Panel World n Wood Bioenergy
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POWERsuppliers
Stihl’s Lorraine Amesbury Holder Among Manufacturing Leaders Honored By National Group The Manufacturing Institute, the workforce and education partner of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), announced the recipients for the 2020 STEP (Science, Technology, Engineering and Production) Ahead awards, which honor women who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in their careers across all levels of the manufacturing industry, from the factory floor to the C-suite. Manufacturing Institute Executive Director Carolyn Lee explains, “Closing the gender gap in the industry will go a long way toward closing the skills gap, empowering more women to join manufacLorraine Amesbury Holder turing’s ranks and lifting the industry as a whole. The STEP Ahead Awards provide a platform to honor role models and motivate them to encourage the next generation of women in the manufacturing industry. The women being recognized are industry leaders—and inspirations to the women and girls who will follow their example and pursue careers in manufacturing.” Among the 130 honorees is Stihl Inc.’s Lorraine Amesbury Holder, vice president of operations. Prior to Amesbury Holder’s promotion to vice president of operations in 2018, she served as the director of manufacturing for Stihl for 10 years. Passionate about skilled trades and educating others about the viable opportunities available in the industry, she was featured in Power Equipment Trade’s popular “Five Minutes With…” column (October 2018) where she told readers, “You are only limited by your imagination.” Amesbury Holder’s view of manufacturing falls directly in line with 2020 STEP Ahead Chair and BASF Corporation President of Market and Business Development North America Teressa Szelest, who believes, “There is an evolution of the manufacturing workforce as more women enter into leadership roles, bringing innovative ideas and transforming how we work and increase productivity.”
Country Clipper Program Expands, Includes Medical Staff Country Clipper has expanded its “Hero Program,” available since 2018, which provides up to $300 in discounts off of Country Clipper zero-turn mowers to active and retired military and first responders. As the country continues to persevere through the COVID-19 pandemic, Country Clipper is expanding this program to include authorized medical personnel who are risking their lives every day to keep our families and communities safe. The expanded program will run through September 30, 2020. “Dictionaries define a hero as a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities,” Blaine Fields, national sales manager at Country Clipper, says. “When we look at our healthcare professionals who are working tirelessly and selflessly on the front-line to keep us safe, I can’t think of a better example of a hero. This discount is our small way of showing our unwavering gratitude and support for their courageous efforts.”
Changes To GIE+EXPO Despite uncertainty in the world, organizers of GIE+EXPO say that the show will go on as planned, October 21-23, 2020 in Louisville, Ky. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), which owns and operates GIE+EXPO, is putting measures in place to make the show as safe as possible this year, following necessary guidelines and protocols established to protect the attendees. OPEI President & CEO Kris Kiser says just as the industry is adapting to a new world order, so is GIE+EXPO. 6
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He adds in a letter posted on the show web site that the management team and partners are working on changes to the show’s structure and layout, as well as ensuring the education programming focuses on how the industry is coming back online and finding opportunity in this challenge. Thankfully, the Kentucky Expo Center offers a million square feet, which should give room to spread out as much as needed. In addition to planned educational events, the third-annual Lucky’s Mutt Madness adoption event is planned for 2020—taking on a new meaning this year, as the country has seen a surge in
shelter pet adoptions while people spend more time at home, with their families and in outdoor spaces. Kiser closes his statement with a simple reminder for the industry: “There is a lot that we don’t know right now. But we do know this: GIE+EXPO is our industry’s family reunion, and where we come to find answers. I’ll see you in Louisville.”
EETC Opens Practice Tests
The Equipment & Engine Training Council (EETC) is now offering online practice tests to provide technicians and students with an excellent way to gauge their EETC certification test readiness. The EETC practice tests, delivered exclusively online at www.eetc.org, will help technicians and students prepare for their next EETC certification exam by trying out questions of similar content and format to those used on the real EETC exams. These online practice tests give power equipment professionals and students the chance to try out EETC-style tests without the stress and high stakes of the real thing. The practice tests are timed at 50 minutes each with 60 multiple-choice questions, and provide feedback in the form of a performance report. The EETC practice test pricing is $15 per practice test for members (manufac-
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POWERsuppliers turer, distributor, dealer, association, associate and premium individual member accounts; $10 per practice test for fulltime students (to receive the “full-time student” discount, the school must have an active high school or college membership with a sub-account set up for the student), and $25 per practice test for individual free member accounts. All practice tests are non-returnable, non-exchangeable and non-refundable, and are available for one year from date of purchase. Upon completing a practice test, there is a two-week waiting period to purchase an additional practice test of the same type, and an individual may only purchase two practice exams of the same type annually.
OPEI Recruiting For Mower Standards
OPEI is seeking consensus body participants in all interest categories—including “users,” consumers, distributors, retailers, dealers and commercial landscapers—to review proposed new American National Standards for powered lawnmowers. The OPEI lawnmower
standard committees are planning to propose a national adoption of the current three-part international standard (ISO 5395) as a globally harmonized ANSI standard of state-of-art requirements for all forms of powered lawnmowers. When the future new standards enter-into-force, they will replace the existing ANSI/OPEI B71.1-2017 and ANSI/OPEI B71.4-2017 standards. Work done by the consensus body, including the review and balloting of the proposals, is expected to get underway in late 2020 or early 2021. To be added to the prospective list of consensus body stakeholders, contact Dan Mustico at dmustico@opei.org.
Husqvarna Appoints President Of NA Div.
Husqvarna appointed of Robert McCutcheon as President of North America for Husqvarna Div., effective June 1. Prior to joining Husqvarna North America, McCutcheon served as president and managing director of the Americas for Britax Child Safety Inc. in
Fort Mill, SC. Bringing more than 23 years of experience and expertise in consumer products, he has led successful business growth initiatives through innovation, marketing and operational excellence. McCutcheon’s background includes positions with Conagra Brands, Walmart and Britax. “We are pleased to welcome Robert to the North American team and believe that he is uniquely qualified to lead Husqvarna during and beyond these challenging social and economic times,” comments Sascha Menges, Global President Husqvarna Div. “His leadership style, broad international business background, and proven understanding of the customer experience will be vital assets for building an even stronger foundation for our business partnerships with our customers.” McCutcheon succeeds Earl Bennett, who served the company both as Legal Counsel and President of the North American division. He has been instrumental in building a strong organizational and business platform for the future growth of Husqvarna in North America.
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POWERsuppliers EDA Announces Women’s Initiative In an effort to encourage and attract more women to the equipment dealer industry, the Equipment Dealers Assn. (EDA), announced the launch of its newest workforce development resource, the EDA Women in Industry initiative. The mission of the EDA Women in Industry initiative is to encourage and attract women to the equipment dealer industry by offering a network that nurtures professional success while furthering the mission of the EDA. This initiative is no additional charge for members to participate. Anne Salemo, the recently retired CEO of Charter Software, is leading the initiative with the help of Alex Hoffman of the EDA. Salemo was an inaugural member of the Women in Industry initiative at the Material Handling Equipment Dealer Assn. and thought that the EDA would benefit from a similar program. “This initiative is important for drawing qualified women professionals to the construction and agricultural equip-
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ment dealers industry. By creating a group of women focused on professional development, the industry can attract more women and help women move up the corporate ladder. With everything going on in the world right now, this initiative will provide a positive impact for the equipment dealership industry,” Salemo comments. The EDA’s initial focus will be to create the founder’s EDA Women in Industry group. The founder’s group will consist of women in c-level, general manager and dealer principal positions from EDA membership. This group will be the springboard for the creation of mentoring program for other levels within dealership organizations. If you are interested in this new group, email asalemo@equipment dealer.org.
BCI Announces 2020 Boot Camp Locations
Bob Clements International (BCI), the leader in dealership training and development, has announced the locations and dates for its 2020 Regional 1-Day
Management Boot Camps. Working in conjunction with the Equipment Dealers Association (EDA), Bob and his team will be holding 1-day management boot camps in 4 cities, which include Lancaster, Penn., November 4; Charlotte, NC, November 6; Tulsa, Okla., November 17 and Columbus, Oh. November 20. Each 1-day event will offer training creating balance in your dealership and how to manage by the numbers. In addition, a portion of the program will focus on developing a digital marketing plan and how to develop a management team. The 2020 Regional Boot Camps are sponsored by Lizzy Software, Kenect and MyMowerSpeicialist.com. Regional Boot Camp registrations are now open. Each Boot Camp will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with beverages and lunch for attendees included. For more information and to register, visit bobclements.com/bootcamps.
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2020 PET Dealer Survey Report More than 300 dealers responded to the biennial Power Equipment Trade dealer survey in early 2020, before the COVID-19 pandemic gripped the world. EDITOR’S NOTE: The Power Equipment Trade dealer survey has been appearing in these pages biennially without fail since 1992—it is the longest running industry database of its kind. And in February 2020, when the staff of PET began putting together questions pertinent to doing business as a power equipment dealer, the COVID-19 pandemic
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was not even a whisper in the ear of a North American dealer. Now, “the virus” is on the scene, has been on the scene, and will continue to be on the scene for a while. It’s changed the way the world operates; power equipment dealers in most states are not immune to those changes. And while the data presented below does not account for anything COVID-19 related, the editors believed responses about the industry at large, the aging dealer base, growing concerns over technician availability and avenues to increase revenue streams were still pertinent. A follow-up story will be in appearing in the August issue of PET detailing all survey responses related to the service side of dealership businesses.
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n endeavor undertaken every other year since 1992, Power Equipment Trade once again held its Dealer Survey to take the pulse of the industry, once again painting the industry by numbers for the 28th time. Overall? Survey says: Things are holding strong and steady, and the industry, is going to be okay. But maybe that comes from age—83% of dealers who took the online survey identified themselves as over 50 (nearly 10% say they are between 20 and 39!)—and doing business with fewer distributors and manufacturers. After all, doesn’t the old adage impart that with age comes wisdom? Of the 315 who responded to the survey, 63% say they do business with fewer distributors than they did two years ago, while a whopping 69% say they are carrying fewer lines than they were two years ago. But not all change is a bad thing; demand for battery power is growing in nearly 200 dealers’ markets. ● Of responding dealers, 25% are turning over more than $1 million in annual revenue across sales, service and parts departments. That includes 5% grossing more than $5 million annually. A plurality of dealers, 32%, say they are turning over less than $100,000 annually. The middle gets a little murky—15% turn over $101,000-$250,000; 16% turn over $251,000-$500,000. The higher middle end is by far the smallest, with only 5% of respondents turning over between $501,000-$750,000; and 7% seeing revenue of between $751,000$999,000. Of their overall revenue, dealers say roughly 37%, on average, comes from whole goods sales. ● Although overall revenue is slightly down from those surveyed in 2018, comparing annual sales from 2018 through 2019 as stayed on par with
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those from 2016 and 2017 where the numbers are basically identical. The majority, 36% this year saying things have stayed about the same. Twenty percent have had an increase up to 10% in sales, while only 8% have had a decrease up to 10%. Notable, 18% report increases of 10-20% in annual sales, with only 6% reporting decreases by the same percentage. A similar difference is evident for those who report an increase by more than 20% of annual sales, 9% of dealers, while only 3% say sales have decreased by more than 20%. ● Dealership size has remained relatively constant during the last two years, as the majority of shops employing between one and five people (57% of respondents), with the next largest group being between six and 10 employees (17%). Almost as equally, 14% of respondents, don’t employ anyone outside of themselves. In 2018, dealerships were about the same size, with 13% being in the six to 10 employee range, though an overwhelming 72% in 2018 employed between one and five. ● Again, relatively consistent with numbers from 2018, 60% of dealers when asked what their overall feelings are selected that they plan to remain a power equipment dealer and believe their business will either grow or hold steady; even though 50% 12
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of respondents say they have chosen to keep their businesses the same over the last two years, compared to the 34% who have elected to expand and the 16% who have chosen to downsize. Over the next two years, 64% will be staying as is; 18% plan to expand at their current location; 6% plan to expand with a relocation, and 12% will be downsizing. ● When it comes to their customer base, dealers are averaging about a 30% mix of commercial cutters/pro landscapers to homeowners, and the ever-popular “prosumer” category continues to grow as well. ● Though the majority of dealers (47%) selected “fair” in response to the question, “How do you regard your overall power equipment profit mar-
gins?” Almost just as strong of a group (31%) chose “good” or “very good.” Twenty-two percent are still feeling down on the industry’s profit margins, selecting “poor” or “very poor.” ● Riding mowers remain king of the hill, as 40% of dealers say that’s the most profitable piece of equipment in their showroom, followed by chain saws (12%); lawn & garden accessories (7%); trimmers/brushcutters and tractors (6%); push mowers (4%) and UTVs/ATVs and other large landscaping equipment (2%). Hand tools brought up the rear with 1% of dealers saying that’s their most profitable. A significant number of dealers remarked that “other” products are their most profitable (19%) and when asked to specify the answers spanned a wide range, from parts and accessories to robotic mowers to snow and ice management equipment. Someone even said knives.
A combined 51% answered that they were either interested in different product lines (27%) or were already diversified (24%). ● As to diversification away from traditional lawn and garden equipment, dealers were fairly split, a combined 51% answered that they were either interested in different product lines (27%) or were already diversified (24%), while 49% said they were not interested in diversifying. When asked what products they’d be interested in, and to check all that apply, 47% chose trailers, 37% chose recreational vehicles/equipment (like karts, watercraft, scooters or ATVs) 27% chose outdoor accessories (like grills, furniture, feeders and fountains), 23% chose larger landscaping equipment (like skid steers and mini excavators), landscaping supplies and clothing each got 10%, plants, seeds mulch and pinestraw got 7%. Bringing up the rear was irrigation systems with 6%. Again, a notable number of dealers chose the “other” designation (20%) and specified
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things like hunting products, appliance parts and bicycles. ● As to how dealers are advertising those products? Word of mouth is still king; though 28% of dealers are turning to social media to spread the word, followed by 19% using print advertisements, 10% using radio and both web sites and direct mailings commanding 7% of dealer ad dollars, respectively. Fifty-two percent of dealers spend a mixture of both coop ad money and their own dollars to advertise shops; while 38% prefer to just use their own money. ● Digital dealers are continuing to lead the pack: 54% of respondents have dedicated web site, and another 7% have a web site as part of a manufacturer or OEM site. Of those with web sites, 40% use it for general information, and only 10% use it for lead generation. ● Dealers are fairly split on opinions about online sales: roughly 30% believe there should be no online sales, while another 30% of respondents believe there should be some online sales of parts, but not whole goods. 22% believe there should be some on-
60% of dealers, when asked for their overall outlook, said that they plan to remain a power equipment dealer and believe their business will either grow or hold steady. line sales of whole goods and parts. However, it seems the crowd of those believing there should be no sales online of anything has dropped over the years, as only 17% of respondents in 2020 don’t see the value in it, when the percentage was much higher in 2018 (35%) and 2016 (42%). ● But one things is for certain, dealers have started to more widely embrace social media. When asked to check all platforms dealers are using to promote their shops, 64% selected Facebook, and popular video sharing site YouTube as well as video and photo platform Instagram both got 14% of responses; Twitter at 10% and LinkedIn brought up the rear at 7%. Still, 33% of dealers are shying away from the all options and are not using social media. PET
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Business Maintains Niche, Grows Through Diversity
Botten, right, has managed to build a thriving business in a growing community.
Once a one-stop logging shop, Northwest Logging Supply is growing with new markets and customer demand. BY DAN SHELL MCMINNVILLE, Ore. iding a wave of community growth and customer demand to significantly increase revenues in the 20+ years since he bought the dealership, Northwest Logging Supply owner Alex Botten has maintained the business’ saw shop roots while expanding into wheeled products and commercial, ag and construction markets in this
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vibrant and growing community southwest of Portland. Botten has a great lawn and garden success story: He’s a local kid who grew up in the area, a farm kid actually, who had a mechanical aptitude and was always tinkering with things, seeing how they run and fixing them up. He was 14 years old in 1990 when he got a job offer to sign on at the dealership as the classic entry-level gofer, setup, cleanup and do whatever they ask employee. He threw his heart and soul into the job, one he’s never left, working for Northwest Logging Supply all through high school and beyond. He continued to work there when he attended Linfield College in McMinnville, where he earned a business degree. So while he was a bit young at age 23 in 1999, when the dealership owner de-
cided he wanted to sell the business, Botten was as prepared as he’d ever be considering he’d trained and schooled for the job almost a whole decade before the owner made him an offer to buy. That 23rd year was quite a doozy for Botten. “I bought a business and a house in the same month,” he remembers with a smile. “I thought I’d never see the light at the end of the tunnel, but it’s actually gone by pretty quick.” He notes that the first few years he sort of maintained the status quo. “I didn’t want to make too many big changes at first,” Botten says. One thing he did commit to was generating more growth and more business diversification, and he’s done that. Revenues have roughly quadrupled in the 20 years Botten has owned Northwest Logging Supply, from the $450,000 annual sales range to almost $2 million now. Another big part of increased growth is broadening the dealership’s product line. The business had offered multiple riding mower lines over the years with only middling success, but that changed after picking up the Walker and Exmark lines in the past six years. “We’ve always tinkered with riding mowers, but the important thing is getting what customers really want, and the Walker and Exmark lines sell themselves,” Botten says. The dealer notes that he has several large commercial lawn care and landscaping accounts, plus multiple smaller commercial operators in the area as that segment of the market continues to grow. The dealership’s business runs about 50-50 commercial-homeowner. He notes that going into spring 2020 he was looking for a good consumer walk-behind to add to the mower lineup. Botten is also seeing growing demand for more battery-powered equipment. “There’s less service work,” he says of the no-engine products. “But it also means less demand on your service department.”
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Markets A big part of Northwest Logging Supply’s market is the light farm and orchard business. The area in the northwest end of the Willamette Valley is full of specialty farms, orchards and vineyards, and much of it is intensely managed. “Orchards, especially hazelnuts, are huge around here and keep us busy year-round,” Botten says. “We sell a ton of pole saws.” True to its name, Northwest Logging Supply still sells a fair amount of pro saws to logging operators and contract cutters. And while any dealership in Douglas fir country can stock a few “big cube” saws, the dealership does so and more, stocking all the pro saw parts to back them up, plus specialized accessories and equipment that loggers need to get the job done. The dealership offers wire rope and rigging for loggers in the area operating the complex cable yarding logging systems that are required to handle the big timber and extremely rugged ground conditions in Oregon’s Coast Range and Cascade Mountains. The cable products extend to other industries in the area such as construction and excavation companies that might need chain slings or other specialty items. Also offered is a full range of logging accessories and supplies, such as hardhats, road signs, chains, pulleys, blocks and sheaves, binders, climbing supplies and more. The dealership stocks the much larger harvester bars and chain for mechanized bar-chain falling equipment, and Oregon chain grinders in the service department keep customer chains sharp and productive. While the logging market does have specific products in demand, Botten notes that long-term trends (insurance and mechanization, mostly) are to get as many saw-wielding hand fallers off the ground as possible. He’s been seeing former hand fallers move into the tree service business, so he also sells the trimming and arborist size saws, and climbing supplies and accessories such as rope and harnesses, for those customers.
Service department takes on all products with a $80/hr. labor rate.
Oregon grinder handles chain work.
Operations Northwest Logging Supply covers 5,000 sq. ft., with 2,000 dedicated to the showroom. Stihl is the longstanding primary handheld line, with Walker and Exmark commercial mowers. The full Oregon product line is offered, from the bars and chain to parts and accessories and also battery-powered products and
Logging is in the dealership’s name, but the market and products have definitely diversified.
log splitters. The complete offering of products at Northwest Logging Supply includes Classen, Bluebird, Jrco, MacKissic and McLane. Engine lines repped are Briggs & Stratton, Kawasaki,
Kohler and Honda. The service department charges $80/ hr., a labor rate that’s on the low end of the local market, Botten says. While prioritizing the equipment they 18
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Saws In The Attic
M
any dealerships in the Pacific Northwest that have been around a while have at least a handful of old or antique saws around. Spanning eight decades in operation, Northwest Logging Supply has a much bigger collection than most, with 150 or so old and antique saws, and more than a few on display in the showroom, hung from the ceiling. Botten says most of the collection dates from the previous owner and the older saw days. With the business dating to 1948 in Yamhill County, the dealership has seen plenty of early chain saw age machines come in over the years. Botten notes the old machines were more prevalent way back when, before many of the remaining unearthed antique saws were pulled from barns and garages in the region. “I do know we used to get more old saws in here before eBay,� he says.
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15 sell, Northwest Logging Supply will look at and attempt to service anything that comes in the door. OEM parts are used for in-house lines. In addition to Botten and his wife, Andrea, who does the books, the staff includes four technicians, a counter person and a part-time clean-up and odd job employee. The dealership’s marketing effort begins with Stihl co-ops in paper inserts and also in the home and garden section of the local paper. Andrea handles social media and the company’s active Facebook page. A detailed and extensive web site built by ARI Services offers a full look at inventory, including a detailed page full of service offerings such as tune-ups, winterizing, chain sharpening, battery service and even oil changes.
Update
Specialized equipment such as cable rigging and supplies...
It’s quite an understatement to say a lot has changed since PET visited Northwest Logging Supply in mid February, before the coronavirus turned the U.S. economy and healthcare system upside down. Botten notes the dealership installed a barrier at the front counter and employees disinfect key areas in the store several times a day, maintaining social distancing. As for the impact of the virus, he notes that the combination of customers spending more time at home and the government stimulus check is working to make 2020 one of the best springs he’s ever had. In fact, April this year was the single best month he’s had since he bought the store, Botten says. “It’s been a phenomenal boost to the business; it seems we just can’t get product fast enough,” Botten says, noting that the service department was already almost four weeks out on turnarounds through the third week in May. PET
...help make Northwest Logging Supply a one-stop shop.
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PETJune20SawCharts_cs.qxp_PETJune03SawCharts 6/2/20 10:41 AM Page 20
2020 Chain Saw Specification Charts EDITOR’S NOTE: Information for PET’s Chain Saw Spec Charts has been furnished by appropriate manufacturers and suppliers. Due to metric-to-non-metric and non-metric-to-metric conversions, some measurements may not be exact. Also, weights were requested “dry, engine only,” but some may include cutting attachments. The "—" symbol indicates no reply; it does not necessarily mean the feature is not available. “C” stands for consumer or homeowner, while “P” stands for professional or commerical designations regarding warranty information. Manufacturers’ suggested retail prices are provided for most of the brands listed; however, some prices were withheld 20
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at the request of the manufacturer. These prices are designed to serve only as a general guide. Prices are shown as of May 10; all specifications are subject to change. We made every effort to make this chart as complete and accurate as possible; however, those companies marked by a “**” notation did not return changes to us by press time. The models listed for them are the most accurate we had on file. Should manufacturers, suppliers, distributors or dealers spot any missteps, please notify Jessica Johnson, Managing Editor, Box 2268, Montgomery, AL 36102-2268/334-834-1170; fax: 334-834-4525; email: jessica@hattonbrown.com. Thanks.
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Echo, echo-usa.com CS-271T
26.9 cc
12 in.
6.6 lbs.
$299.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-303T
30.1 cc
12, 14 in.
7.7 lbs.
$369.99 - $379.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-355T
35.8 cc
14, 16 in.
8 lbs.
$349.99 - $359.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-310
30.5 cc
14, 16 in.
8.8 lbs.
$199.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-352
34 cc
14, 16 in.
8.8 lbs.
$259.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-361P
35.8 cc
14, 16 in.
8.4 lbs.
$399.99 - $409.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-370
36.3 cc
16, 18 in.
10.1 lbs.
$279.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-400
40.2 cc
16, 18 in.
10.1 lbs.
$299.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-490
50.2 cc
16, 18, 20 in.
10.6 lbs.
$349.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-501P
50.2 cc
16, 18, 20 in.
10.4 lbs.
$459.99 - $469.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-590
59.8 cc
18, 20, 24 in.
13.2 lbs.
$399.99 - $419.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-620P
59.8 cc
20, 24, 27 in.
14.1 lbs.
$579.99 - $599.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-620PW
59.8 cc
16, 18, 20, 24, 27 in.
14.1 lbs.
$579.99 - $599.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-680
66.8 cc
20, 24, 27 in.
14.5 lbs.
$619.99 - $639.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-800P
80.7 cc
24, 27, 32, 36 in.
16.8 lbs.
$829.99 - $859.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-2511T
25 cc
12, 14 in.
5.2 lbs.
$399.99 - $409.99
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-4510
45 cc
16, 18 in.
11 lbs.
$329.00
5-year C; 1-year P
CS-3510
34.4 cc
16 in.
8.2 lbs.
$259.99
5-year C; 1-year P
EFCO, efcopower.com MT 3500 S
38.9 cc
16 in.
-
$239.99
5-year C; 2-year P
MT 3751
35.2 cc
16 in.
-
$299.99
5-year C; 2-year P
MT 4110
39.0 cc
16 in.
-
$329.99
5-year C; 2-year P
MT 4410
42.9 cc
16, 18 in.
-
$369.99 - $379.99
5-year C; 2-year P
MT 5200
51.7 cc
18, 20 in.
-
$409.99 - $419.99
5-year C; 2-year P
MT 6500
63.4 cc
20 in.
-
$599.99
5-year C; 2-year P
MTH 5100
50.9 cc
18 in.
-
$209.99
1-year C
MTH 5600
54.5 cc
20 in.
-
$229.99
1-year C
MTT 2500
25.4 cc
12 in.
-
$379.99
5-year C; 2-year P
MTT 3600
35.4 cc
14 in.
-
$419.99
5-year C; 2-year P
MTH 4000
38.9 cc
16 in.
-
$179.99
1-year C
16 in.
10.3 lbs.
$179.95
2-year C; 90 days P
Husqvarna, husqvarna.com/us 240
38.2 cc
440 II e-series
40.9 cc
18 in.
9.7 lbs.
$299.95
2-year C; 90 days P
450 II Rancher
50.2 cc
18-20 in.
11.2 lbs.
$399.95
2-year C; 90 days P
450 II e-series
50.2 cc
18-20 in.
11.2 lbs.
$379.95
2-year C; 90 days P
455 Rancher
55.5 cc
18-20 in.
13.2 lbs.
$429.95
2-year C; 90 days P
460 Rancher
60.3 cc
18-24 in.
13.2 lbs.
$479.95
2-year C; 90 days P
545
50.1 cc
16-20 in.
10.8 lbs.
$499.95
2-year C; 1-year P
555
59.8 cc
18-24 in.
13.01 lbs.
$679.95
2-year C; 1-year P
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365
70.7 cc
20-28 in.
14.1 lbs.
$779.95
2-year C; 1-year P
543 XP
43.1 cc
16-18 in.
9.92 lbs.
$529.95
2-year C; 1-year P
550 XP
50.1 cc
20 in.
10.8 lbs.
$559.95
2-year C; 1-year P
550 XP TrioBrake
50.1 cc
18-20 in.
11.02 lbs.
$639.95
2-year C; 1-year P
550 XP G
50.1 cc
16-20 in.
11.24 lbs.
$639.95
2-year C; 1-year P
562 XP
59.8 cc
18-28 in.
13.4 lbs.
$749.95
2-year C; 1-year P
562 XP G
59.8 cc
20-28 in.
13.9 lbs.
$819.95
2-year C; 1-year P
372 XP X-TORQ
70.7 cc
20-28 in.
14.6 lbs.
$899.95
2-year C; 1-year P
372 XP G
70.7 cc
20-28 in.
15 lbs.
$1,059.95
2-year C; 1-year P
576 XP
73.5 cc
20-28 in.
15.2 lbs.
$899.95
2-year C; 1-year P
576 XP AutoTune
73.5 cc
20-32 in.
15 lbs.
$959.95
2-year C; 1-year P
390 XP
88 cc
20-28 in.
16.1 lbs.
$1,179.95
2-year C; 1-year P
390 XP W
88 cc
28-36 in.
16.1 lbs.
$1,279.95
2-year C; 1-year P
395 XP
94 cc
20-28 in.
17.4 lbs.
$1,239.95
2-year C; 1-year P
3120 XP
118.8 cc
42 in.
22.9 lbs.
$1849.95
2-year C; 1-year P
T435
35.2 cc
12-14 in.
7.5 lbs.
$329.95
2-year C; 90 days P
T540 XP II
37.7 cc
14-16 in.
8.6 lbs.
$649.95
2-year C; 1-year P
439
35.2
14-16 in.
8.64 lbs.
$389.95
2-year C; 90 days P
120i
40 V
14 in.
6.5 lbs.
$259.99 w/battery
2-year C; 90 days P
135
40.9 cc
14-16 in.
9.7 lbs.
$229.95
2-year C; 90 days P
T535iXP
40 V
12-14 in.
5.29 lbs.
$429.99
3-year C; 2-year P
120 Mark II
38.2 cc
14-18 in.
10.7 lbs.
$159.95
2-year C; 90 days P
130
38 cc
16 in.
10.36 lbs.
$199.99
2-year C; 90 days P
135 Mark II
38 cc
16 in.
10.36 lbs.
$249.99
2-year C; 90 days P
435 e-series
40.9 cc
16-18 in.
9.7 lbs.
$269.99
2-year C; 90 days P
445 e-series
50.2 cc
16-20 in.
11.2 lbs.
$329.99
2-year C; 90 days P
545 Mark II
50.1 cc
16-20 in.
11.7 lbs.
$539.99
2-year C; 1-year P
565
70.6 cc
20-28 in.
14.3 lbs.
$899.99
2-year C; 1-year P
550 XP Mark II
50.1 cc
16-20 in.
11.7 lbs.
$599.99
2-year C; 1-year P
550 XP G Mark II
50.1 cc
16-20 in.
12.1 lbs.
$669.99
2-year C; 1-year P
572 XP
70.6 cc
20-28 in.
14.5 lbs.
$999.99
2-year C; 1-year P
572 XP G
70.6 cc
20-28 in.
15 lbs.
$1,059.99
2-year C; 1-year P
T525
27 cc
12 in.
5.95 lbs.
$499.99
2-year C; 90 days P
536iXP
40 V
14 in.
5.29 lbs.
$399.95
2-year C; 1-year P
Makita, makitatools.com**
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EA6100PR
61 cc
20 in.
13.2 lbs.
$624.95
1-year limited
EA5000PR
50 cc
20 in.
11.9 lbs.
-
1-year limited
EA4300FR
42.4 cc
18 in.
10.8 lbs.
-
1-year limited
EA3201SR
32 cc
14 in.
9.4 lbs.
-
1-year limited
EA5600FR
56 cc
20 in.
12.8 lbs.
-
1-year limited
5012B
Corded
11 3/4 in.
9.5 lbs.
$229.95
1-year limited
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UC3551A
Corded
14 in.
12.1 lbs.
$199.95
1-year limited
UC4051A
Corded
14 in.
12.1 lbs.
-
1-year limited
XCU02Z
18 V
12 in.
11.2 lbs.
$219.95
1-year limited
XCU01Z
18 V
4.5 in.
-
-
3-year limited
XCU03
36 V
14 in.
-
-
3-year limited
XCU04
36 V
16 in.
-
-
3-year limited
XCU06
18 V
10 in.
-
-
3-year limited
XCU07
36 V
14 in.
-
-
3-year limited
HCU02C1
36 V
12 in.
10.1 lbs.
-
1-year limited
EA3200SR
32 cc
-
9 lbs.
-
1-year limited
EA3500SR
35 cc
-
9.7 lbs.
-
1-year limited
EA5001PR
50 cc
-
11.9 lbs.
-
1-year limited
EA7300PR
72.6 cc
-
14.7 lbs.
-
1-year limited
EA7301PR
72.6 cc
-
14.7 lbs.
-
1-year limited
EA7900PR
78.5 cc
-
14.7 lbs.
-
1-year limited
EA7901PR
78.5 cc
-
14.7 lbs.
-
1-year limited
Maruyama, maruyama-us.com** MCV42
42.4
15 in.
10.8 lbs.
-
5-year P
MCV31R
30.1
14 in.
7.3 lbs.
-
5-year P
MCV31T
30.1
12-14 in.
7.3 lbs.
-
5-year P
MCV51
50
18-20 in.
11.2 lbs.
-
5-year P
Oregon, oregonproducts.com CS1500
Corded
18 in.
12.6 lbs.
$99.00
2-year limited
CS1400
Corded
16 in.
12.6 lbs.
$84.99
2-year limited
CS300
40 V
16 in.
9.5 lbs. w/o battery
$249.00
3-year limited
CS300-E6
40 V
16 in.
12 lbs. w/battery
$299.00
3-year limited
CS300-A6
40 V
16 in.
12 lbs. w/battery
$369.00
3-year limited
CS300-R7
40 V
16 in.
12 lbs. w/battery
$449.00
3-year limited
CS1200
Corded
16 in.
10.1 lbs.
$69.99
2-year limited
Poulan Pro, poulanpro.com** PL3314
33 cc
14 in.
-
-
-
PL914
-
-
-
-
-
PL1416
-
-
-
-
-
PL3816
38 cc
16 in.
-
-
-
PR4218
42 cc
18in.
-
-
-
PR5020
51 cc
20 in.
-
-
2-year
PR4016
40 cc
16 in.
-
-
2-year
PRCS16i
58 V
16 in.
-
-
-
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16-18 in.
9.5 lbs.
$269.99
2-years C; 90 days P
12-16 in.
7.5 lbs.
$349.99
2-years C; 90 days P
16-18 in.
11.2 lbs.
$339.99
2-years C; 1 year P
55.5 cc
18-20 in.
12.8 lbs.
$459.99
2-years C; 90 days P
GZ360
35.2 cc
14-16 in.
8.6 lbs.
$389.99
2-years C; 90 days P
GZ4350
43.1 cc
13-18 in.
9.92 lbs.
$529.99
2-years C; 1 year P
GZ5000
50.1 cc
16-18 in.
11.02 lbs.
$499.99
2-years C; 1 year P
GZ7100
70.7 cc
18-28 in.
14.1 lbs.
$899.99
2-years C; 1 year P
GZ9000
87.9 cc
18-28 in.
16.1 lbs.
$1,179.99
2-years C; 1 year P
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RedMax, redmax.com/us GZ381
40.9 cc
GZ3500T
35.2 cc
GZ500
50.2 cc
GZ550
Shindaiwa, shindaiwa-usa.com** 305s
30.5 cc
14 in.
8.8 lbs.
$199.99
5-year C; 1-year P
340s
34 cc
16 in.
8.8 lbs.
$259.99
5-year C; 1-year P
358Ts
35.8 cc
14,16 in.
8.0 lbs.
$349.99 - $359.99
5-year C; 1-year P
402s
40.2 cc
18 in.
10.1 lbs.
$299.99
5-year C; 1-year P
491s
50.2 cc
18,20 in.
10.6 lbs.
$349.99
5-year C; 1-year P
591
59.8 cc
18,20 in.
13.2 lbs.
$399.99
5-year C; 1-year P
600 sx
59.8 cc
20,24,27 in.
13.7 lbs.
$549.99 - $569.99
5-year C; 1-year P
82 V
18 in.
18 lbs.
$199.00
5-year limited C
MS 150 C-E
23.6 cc
10-12 in.
6.1 lbs.
$539.95 - $549.95
-
MS 150 T-CE
23.6 cc
10-12 in.
5.7 lbs.
$489.95 - $499.95
-
MS 151 C-E
23.6 cc
10-12 in.
6.1 lbs.
$549.95
-
MS 151 T C-E
23.6 cc
10-12 in.
5.73 lbs.
$499.95
-
MS 170
30.1 cc
12-16 in.
8.6 lbs.
$179.95
-
MS 171
31.8 cc
12-16 in.
9.5 lbs.
$199.95
-
MS 180
31.9 cc
12-16 in.
9.0 lbs.
$199.95
-
MS 180 C-BE
31.8 cc
12-16 in.
9.3 lbs.
$239.95
-
MS 181 C-BE
31.8 cc
12-16 in.
10.1 lbs.
$279.95
-
MS 193 C-E
30.1 cc
12-16 in.
7.61 lbs.
$369.95 - $429.95
-
MS 193 T
30.1 cc
12-16 in.
7.28 lbs.
$329.95 - $379.95
-
MS 194 C-E
31.8 cc
12-16 in.
7.6 lbs.
$329.95
-
MS 194 T
31.8 cc
12-16 in.
7.28 lbs.
$329.95
-
MS 201 C-EM
35.2 cc
12-16 in.
8.6 lbs.
$699.95 - $749.95
-
MS 201 T C-M
35.2 cc
12-16 in.
8.16 lbs.
$649.95 - $699.95
-
Snapper, snapper.com** SXDCS82
Stihl, stihlusa.com
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MS 211
35.2 cc
18 in.
9.5 lbs.
$279.95
-
MS 211 C-BE
35.2 cc
18 in.
10.1 lbs.
$319.95
-
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MS 250
45.4 cc
18 in.
10.1 lbs.
$349.95
-
MS 251 C-BE
45.6 cc
18 in.
11.9 lbs.
$369.95
-
MS 251 Wood Boss
45.6 cc
18 in.
10.8 lbs.
$329.95
-
MS 261
50.2 cc
16-20 in.
10.8 lbs.
$549.95 - $569.95
-
MS 261 C-M
50.2 cc
16-20 in.
10.8 lbs.
$549.95 - $569.95
-
MS 271 Farm Boss
50.2 cc
16 in.
12.3 lbs.
$389.95 - $399.95
-
MS 291
55.5 cc
16 in.
12.3 lbs.
$439.95 - $449.99
-
MS 311
59.0 cc
16-20 in.
13.67 lbs.
$479.95 - $509.95
-
MS 362
59.0 cc
16-25 in.
12.3 lbs.
$729.95 - $759.95
-
MS 362 C-M
59.0 cc
16-25 in.
12.35 lbs
$729.95 - $759.95
-
MS 362 R-CM
59.0 cc
16-25 in.
13.2 lbs
$759.95 - $789.95
-
MS 391
64.1 cc
16-20 in.
13.67 lbs.
$549.95 - $579.95
-
MS 461
76.5 cc
16-32 in.
14.6 lbs.
$969.95 - $1,019.95
-
MS 461 R
76.5 cc
16-32 in.
14.6 lbs.
$1,029.95 - $1,059.95
-
MS 462 C-M
72.2 cc
16-28 in.
13.0 lbs.
$1,099.95
-
MS 462 R C-M
72.2 cc
16-28 in.
13.9 lbs.
$1,139.95
-
MS 462 R Rescue
72.2 cc
20 in.
14.3 lbs.
$1,299.95
-
MS 500i
79.2 cc
16-36 in.
13.9 lbs.
$1,209.95
-
MS 500i R
79.2 cc
16-36 in.
14.8 lbs.
$1,249.95
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MS 661 C-M
91.1 cc
16-32 in.
16.3 lbs.
$1,169.95 - $1,289.95
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MS 661 R-CM
91.1 cc
16-32 in.
16.8 lbs.
$1,209.95 - $1,329.95
-
MS 880 Magnum
121.6 cc
17-59 in.
22.3 lbs.
$1,859.95 - $1,869.95
-
MS 880 R Magnum
121.6 cc
17-59 in.
22.7 lbs.
$1,899.95 - $1,909.95
-
MSA 120 C-BQ
36 V
10-12 in.
5.5 lbs w/o battery
$239.95 w/o battery
-
8.2 lbs. w/AK 20
$299.95 bundled w/ battery & charger
MSA 140 C-BQ
36 V
12 in.
5.7 lbs w/o battery
$269.95 w/o battery
-
8.6 lbs. w/AK 30
$349.95 bundled w/
6.0 lbs w/o battery
$289.95 - $299.95
-
$379.95
-
$319.95 - $339.95
-
battery & charger MSA 160 C-BQ
36 V
10-12 in.
9.8 lbs. w/AP 300 MSA 161 T
36 V
12 in.
4.6 lbs w/o battery 8.4 lbs. w/AP 300
MSA 200 C-BQ
36 V
10-14 in.
6.4 lbs w/o battery 10.2 w/AP 300
MSE 141 C-Q
Corded
12 in.
6.38 lbs.
$199.95
-
MSE 170 C-BQ
Corded
12-16 in.
8.4 lbs.
$329.95 - $349.95
-
MSE 210 C-BQ
Corded
12-16 in.
9.4 lbs.
$429.95 - $449.95
-
MSE 250 C-Q
Corded
16, 20 in.
9.4 lbs.
$529.95 - $549.95
-
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SAWproducts EDITOR’S NOTE: The following has been supplied by each manufacturer; for more information see their advertisement elsewhere in this issue.
ASPEN FUELS USA Aspen Fuels has recently launched in the U.S. market, bringing its premixed Aspen 2 (for 2-stroke engines) and Aspen 4 (4-stroke) products to power equipment users. Aspen’s fuels are engineered alkylate-based fuels, which are one of the cleanest petroleum products that can be produced. As clean fuels, Aspen provides a much better user-experience, particularly for chain saw operators, who can quickly appreciate the advantages of Aspen alkylate fuel compared to pump gas and other engineered fuels. Aspen first developed alkylate fuel in Sweden to benefit forestry workers and improve the conditions for chain saw operators who were suffering from various health problems including headaches and nausea. Aspen’s fuels are engineered to be cleaner and virtually free of many of the harmful hydrocarbons found in standard gasoline. According to Ulf Augustsson, who works as a forest engineer with the Swedish Forest Agency, “You notice the difference immediately using alkylate fuel when operating chain saws without the headaches, without the gasoline smell. Other than feeling better, you also notice the benefits over time of the fuel quality with your equipment and you can store the product for long periods of time, up to five years. Alklyate-based fuels have become the standard for chain saw instruction and operation here.” Furthermore, Aspen is recognized for its lower environmental impact as a cleaner fuel with Aspen 2 having fully synthetic biodegradable oil. 30 years after being developed for chain saw operators, forestry workers, landscapers, arborists and other professional and home users continue to benefit from Aspen, which has now sold over 100 million gallons in over 20 countries. In North America, Aspen 2 is premixed for use in chain saws and can be purchased in quarts, 1.3 gal. or larger drums ideal for professional users. As an engineered fuel, Aspen is offered at a competitive price, offering superior value to customers. Visit aspenfuels.us
CANNON BAR WORKS Cannon Bar Works released the DuraLite SuperBar: Their first lightweight chain saw bar in the fall of 2019 and it has become very popular among tree fallers and tree care companies. 26
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This bar combines the professional quality of their traditional Cannon SuperBar with the weight reduction that the industry has been demanding. The new Cannon DuraLite SuperBar is made from a virtually completed SuperBar. After the bar is grooved and the rails have been flame hardened, the weight is eliminated by milling out pockets on either side of the SuperBar, leaving a steel core in the center for strength. The center section is then perforated with holes—this method of construction is based on the same principal that one would see in an I-beam. Cannon then uses a special adhesive, which not only bonds the steel to two flexible aluminum inserts, one on each side of the bar, but also creates a chemical bond (or weld) between the two inserts. The DuraLite SuperBar remains ridged and durable, has the same quality characteristics as the traditional SuperBar, but weighs up to 25% less. “As hand fallers we work in a demanding environment, abundant with hazards. Our gear needs to be in top shape to give us piece of mind so we can perform physically and more importantly, mentally. Over the last 60 falling days I have cut in burnt timber, small wood and big wood, and the Cannon DuraLite SuperBar performed way past my expectations, the best lightweight bar I have ran—rigid, tough and balanced. It’s downright tough and it is the first piece of rigging that I can say is made for a logger,” a timber faller with Big Bark Falling, BC, Canada comments. In addition to the DuraLite SuperBar, Cannon has many different lines of saw chain guide bars; SuperBars for falling and bucking; SuperMini bars for climbing saws/arborists; carver bars for chain saw carving; pruner bars for pole saws; SawMiller bars for chain saw milling; harvester bars for processors and harvesters, and bars for package cutting saws. Cannon also specializes in making custom bars for unique applications and extra-long bars for milling. All Cannon Bars are individually manufactured in their shop in Langley, BC, Canada to the highest quality, and are truly “The Best Bar—Bar None!”. Cannon is always looking to expand their worldwide network of dealers and distributors. If you would like to become a Cannon Bar Works dealer, or learn more about their products, call 888-604-9990 or email info@cannonbar.com. Visit cannonbar.com
HUSQVARNA Durable and responsive for superior results, the 455 Rancher is an ideal saw for landowners and part-time users who require a high powered, heavy-duty and responsive workmate for all cutting conditions. It combines the best characteristics
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SAWproducts of its predecessor with new, facilitating technology and ergonomics. The saw has: air injection, which is a centrifugal air cleaning system that removes larger dust and debris particles before reaching the air filter. This results in reduced air filter cleanings and improved engine life. The side-mounted chain tensioner provides easier access to the chain tensioning device, while X-Torq delivers lower fuel consumption and reduced exhaust emission levels in accordance with the world’s most stringent environmental regulations. The LowVib system is designed to reduce vibration levels to the operator, which lessens fatigue. Visit Husqvarna.com
the factories that we source our raw material and complete products. The factory has achieved ISO accreditation and is UL / ANSI certified. For a virtual tour of the factory, visit our YouTube: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1l4MMHJFSzEThKYm1eC5gfTy94g0zVoQIn addition to a full line of saw chain we offer complete categories of guide bars, sprockets, grinders, files, sharpeners, wedges, and many other forestry accessories. Spare parts include cylinders, starters, carburetors, fuel line, filters, brushcutter blades and spindles. For a complete listing of products, visit our catalog: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ViBFhRgBSJ3SDjHX_S3GR6vPotawAGOa Visit pmdintusa.com
ROTARY CORP.
PMD INTERNATIONAL
PMD International is an Australian owned, China based manufacturing and trading company, offering over 10,000 parts and accessories for the forestry, small engine and lawn & garden market. Our company brand is Archer; we also private label and produce for OEMs. The PMD customer network is considerable, as we sell to 83 different countries. Our China operation is based in Jinhua, Zhejiang, where we employ 130 in our 100% fully owned saw chain factory, office, warehouse, packaging department and showroom. The saw chain factory is completely automated using state of the art machinery to produce high quality pro chain. We having experienced management and highly trained staff, many have worked in the industry for 30 plus years. Mini 1/4 pitch, 1/4, 3/8 lp, 325, 3/8, and 404 chain in chisel and semi-chisel configurations as well as specialized chains such as ripping, skip, and cutterless are all produced. Our factory has a large quality department with modern testing equipment that we utilize for our saw chain production and also to audit
Rotary’s Copperhead chain saw bars and chain mean quality, performance and reliability. A complete line of professional-grade Copperhead chain saw bars and chain, plus a variety of repair parts and accessories are featured in Rotary’s 2020 master catalog. New items include pro sprocket bars and various multi-part assortments containing carburetors, intake gaskets, filters, standard and metric bolts, bar stud nuts and chain links. Thousands of other superior quality Copperhead chain saw items are available including plain straps and presets plus low profile, semi-chisel and skip tooth chain in cut loops or 25 ft. and 100 ft. reels. Rotary has also introduced a tri-link saw chain featuring titanium-coated full chisel cutters that saw up to 20% faster than semi-chisel chain. Engineered for powerful performance, Copperhead saw bars are highlighted in a special 120-page section of the catalog, along with a chain crossover comparison chart and a new chain scale chart. Other popular items for 2020 include chain saw filters, springs, carburetion kits, piston and cylinder assemblies, crankshafts, pole saw bars, repair tools, chain breakers, spur sprockets, fuel filters, starter parts and bar scabbards in various sizes. Rotary’s 2020 catalog features hundreds of new items among more than 9,500 different power equipment parts, tools and accessories. It includes photos, descriptions and cross reference numbers for most all brands along with many hard-tofind and discontinued parts. The entire catalog may be downloaded in a PDF format on Rotary’s web site. Visit rotarycorp.com POWER EQUIPMENT TRADE
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SAWproducts STIHL
With reliable performance delivered from Stihl battery power, the MSA 220 C-B is the most powerful battery-powered chain saw in the Stihl lineup. Capable of felling and limbing, this saw is also the first Stihl battery chain saw with a 16 in. bar. Its durable construction and reliable performance make it a powerful addition to the professional arsenal. Visit STIHL.com
SUNBELT OUTDOOR PRODUCTS Sunbelt Outdoor Products has been committed to being the first choice for quality power equipment parts and accessories for over 60 years. With over 66,000 parts and growing, Sunbelt is confident that they will have the parts in stock that you need to keep your customers running. One area of focus is the forestry industry. Over the years Sunbelt has developed a full line of Timber Ridge forestry products. Timber Ridge is broadly available for most OEMs used in today’s market, and branded Timber Ridge bars and chains are manufactured to provide the OEM standard for durability and performance, while also meeting ANSI safety standards. With the full Timber Ridge lineup, Sunbelt offers guide bars, chain, bar and chain combos, bar mounts, sprockets, rims, clutch drums, files, joining kits and safety clothing to get the job done. Make Sunbelt Outdoor Products your one stop shop for all your chain saw, forestry and power equipment needs. Visit sunbeltparts.com
TRILINK SAW CHAIN TriLink Saw Chain is proud to introduce our new 3/4 harvester chain. Complementing our line of .404 machine harvester chain and guide bars, the 28
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new 3/4 harvester chain is manufactured from high quality alloy steel. The CAD designed semi-chisel cutters have excellent cutting speed for increased board feet production. The chrome-plated aggressive cutting edge is designed for extreme cutting conditions from the coldest winters in Sweden to the hottest summers in the western U.S. TriLink’s harvester line provides a superior and more durable alternative over the competition. We offer a full range of handheld harvester chain as well. Engineered for precision, balance and low vibration, our handheld harvester chain incorporates semi-chisel cutters that are designed to cut faster and stay sharper longer in dirty and gritty conditions. All of our semi-chisel cutters are manufactured with advanced heat treatment and hard chromed to allow for improved cutter performance. TriLink Saw Chain strives to improve our products through innovation, production, and service while offering the best value in the industry. We aim to develop and deliver never before seen products and solutions. TriLink is your link to quality. Visit trilinksawchain.com
VP RACING One of the most important performance parts in a professional chain saw is its fluids. However, too many commercial users assume that fuels and oils are largely all the same and unknowingly cause damage and shorten the life of their professional chain saw. The first thing to know is to never use pump gas in any power equipment, as it contains 10-15% ethanol which will destroy rubber/plastic parts such as fuel lines and gaskets, as well as gum up carburetors and piston rings (“ring stick”). Further, because ethanol attracts water, it is corrosive on internal engine components. Instead, use ethanol-free, high-octane (94+) fuels specially formulated for power equipment. VP Racing Fuels’ ProMax 50:1 2-cycle fuel offers an industry-leading 97 octane fuel with a JASO FD certified oil that is premixed for quick starts, maximum performance and extended engine life in extreme conditions (as verified in third party detergency tests and gas chromatography tests). Another challenge in maintaining proper chain lubrication is “fling off,” the tendency of the oil to separate from the chain as it turns, thereby failing to fully lubricate the chain. VP’s bar and chain oil includes a tackifier for low fling, which results in less oil consumption and improved protection. It’s also formulated with rust and corrosion inhibitors and anti-wear additives for better protection of metal surfaces while keeping the chain sharper for longer periods of time. Lastly, VP’s bar and chain oil offers all season performance: hot and cold temperatures (flows to -9˚F). Visit VPRacingFuels.com/power
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Rotary Corp. Makes A Difference With Community Cleanup Effort Rotary’s Copperhead chain saw team joins cleanup effort following Georgia tornado outbreak.
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n late April, tornadoes touched down in much of the south, including Odom, Ga. less than 50 miles from Rotary Corp.’s world headquarters in Glennville, Ga. As part of the small community, Rotary volunteers didn’t hesitate when it came time to join the efforts to cleanup debris and other destruction—helping the community to move forward following the storm; just as the Copperhead chain saw team did in Donalsonville, Ga. following the massive destruction left when Hurricane Michael hit the region in 2018. Rotary volunteers along with members of the Glennville United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) worked for several days to clear and remove debris. Rotary’s Copperhead
Some members of the Rotary Copperhead chain saw team, including James Tucker, left, a retired power equipment dealer from Fitzgerald, Ga. and longtime Rotary customer. Tucker sharpened, tuned and repaired saws throughout the day to keep the team up and running.
A home, ripped from a concrete foundation by high winds, damaged two trucks and blew into a row of pine trees where it eventually stopped. Fortunately, there were no fatalities as the father and his young child crawled out of the debris from a small hole in the end of the home.
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Several large pecan trees were cut and removed from the area. This family’s home was blown off its foundation and will require extensive work to become livable again.
chain saw team on the ground in Odom included employees Daniel and David Smith, both members of Glennville UMC. The Rotary crew provided manpower, equipment and company donated saw chain, bars, fuel and protective gear, while UMCOR scheduled and coordinated the cleanup project. According to David Smith, Rotary’s Copperhead chain saw team worked on seven different sites during the two-day “mini mission” trip. With the aid of other volunteers, Smith estimated the Rotary team performed approximately $10,000 of work at no cost to residents. “We were able to help folks during a special time of need. This is what it’s all about,” Smith says. PET
A “mini saw shop” was setup underneath this tent for maintenance and repairs. Altogether, five volunteers worked on the Rotary team during the two-day cleanup.
Daniel Smith operating his skid steer to help with debris removal.
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POWERworks 9009
Obsolete McCulloch & Obsolete Homelite Parts Bob’s Lawnmower Service 7632 State Hwy. 7 Maryland, NY 12116-3201
607-638-9297 phone or fax BUY & SELL NEW, USED & OBSOLETE
8100
HOMELITE PARTS Ask For Ray 502-228-1462 • Fax: 502-228-7737
POULAN WEED EATER PARTS Stihl * Homelite * Lawnboy * Briggs & Stratton New * Obsolete * Used Parts THOUSANDS OF PARTS! Shelby County Implement • Shelbina, MO 63468 Ph: 573-588-4731 • 573-588-2040 Email: sci63468@hotmail.com Visa and Mastercard Accepted 3524
WISCONSIN ENGINE PARTS NEW–OBSOLETE • BUY–SELL HARD TO FIND PARTS CLOSEOUT PRICES
H&M Industrial Supply (800) 346-4331 2236
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PETcetera Yanmar Disinfects Brazilian City For COVID-19 Yanmar South America has teamed up with John Deere and the local government of Indaiatuba, Brazil, an important center of industry in the state of Sao Paulo, in an effort to disinfect the streets of the city of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), to make them safer for citizens. The city of Indaiatuba carried out the spraying and disinfection of the city’s streets from April 15th to May 8th with Yanmar contributing a Solis 90 CV tractor to assist in the operation. Working at night, the tractors sprayed a solution of water and sodium hypochlorite, a chlorine-based bleach, prepared and approved by the city’s health department. Yanmar South America employee Odirlei Silva, from the agricultural commercial department, operated the tractor. “We have over 60 years of history in Indaiatuba,” Yanmar South America President Kenji Kitahara remarks. “This city is home to many of our employees and it’s important for the people of the city that we work closely with City Hall in this time of crisis.” The response of residents was overwhelmingly positive with many taking to social media to express thanks for the disinfection work. Nilson Gaspar, Mayor of the city of Indaiatuba agreed with residents: “Nothing is more important to us than the health and wellbeing of our residents. We’re very pleased that the city has been able to come together with Yanmar and John Deere to carry out this important public service.” Yanmar will consider further action in the future in line with city health guidelines.
PETevents SEPTEMBER 1-3—National Hardware Trade Show, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nev. Call 203-8405622; visit nationalhardwareshow.com. OCTOBER 21-23—GIE+EXPO, Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, Ky. Call 812-949-9200; visit gie-expo.com. NOVEMBER 4-6—2020 Far West Equipment Dealers Assn. Experience, Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa, Henderson, Nev. Call 707-678-8859; visit fweda.com. NOVEMBER 16-18—2020 North American Dealer Conference, TBD, Dallas, Tex. Visit nadealerconference.com. Listings are submitted months in advance. Always verify dates and locations with contacts prior to making plans to attend.
Coming Soon August: Mower Annual October: GIE+EXPO Preview December: Trimmer Charts ADlink This issue of Power Equipment Trade is brought to you in part by the following companies, which will gladly supply additional information about their products. ADVERTISER
PG NO.
PHONE NUMBER
Aspen USA 17 Cannon Bar Works 7 Green Industry & Equipment Expo 19 Heftee Industries 31 Husqvarna Forest & Garden 9 Masport 8 PMD International 16 Prufrex Innovative Power Products 13 Rotary 18,31,40 Stihl 2 Sunbelt Outdoor Products 29 TD Retail Card Services 5 Trilink Saw Chain 1 VP Racing Fuels 39
312.283.7347 888.604.9990 800.558.8767 800.755.7540 800.487.5951 +64 9 571 5888 +61 3 8390 3933 +49 9103 7953 0 800.841.3989 757.486.9100 800.438.0660 800.538.3638 877.492.9829 877.515.1733
ADLINK is a free service for advertisers and readers. The publisher assumes no liability for errors or omissions.
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DEALERtodealer
Diversify Your Lines: But Make Sure You’re The Best GREG GERMAN
Diversification is just frankly good business, as long as you meet needs and are able to excel.
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egendary General Electric (GE) CEO, Jack Welch had a business mindset that said “If you can’t get to being #1 or #2 in whatever market you are in, exit that market.” As dealers brace for tougher economic conditions due to the pandemic, diversification is likely on the minds of many as they look for new sources of revenue. The idea of having your business have levels of diversification is frankly, good business. Back in the 1960s, our traditional tractor dealership began to develop a growing area of aftermarket parts for use by our local farmers. These included competitive brand will-fit parts, but also general use items such as lighting, tillage wear items, electric fence consumables and more. Our display area basically became a miniature version of a farm/fleet store. It made sense as we were providing needed items that were convenient and well-priced for our local customers, that helped to also draw in customers who mainly frequented our competitor’s dealerships. Fast-forward to the 1980s, the numbers of farmers begins to shrink, the advent of the farm/fleet stores was quickly growing, and customers purchase habits were beginning to become less localized. It was clear that this portion of our business, which had been a positive contributor, was now becoming a detraction. Our inventory movement slowed down greatly and the space that it was occupying was somewhat at a premium, as our needs for greater space for other growing markets of equipment were now demanding that space. In this case, the original need for diversification made sense. We were expanding within a current customer base we knew, with a product that was well-ac-
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cepted, and were one of the only convenient choices in the market to fulfill the need. But things changed. We no longer were the clear choice and didn’t see that we were going to be in the future. The market we availed ourselves to was only local, and we didn’t see a clear pathway to make it grow. It was time to exit most of that product offering and to diversify those assets into areas of greater opportunity—that is what I would call a healthy diversification strategy. I counter that with another diversification opportunity that I attempted in the ‘90s.We had been a successful light in-
clearly done a better job at meeting the customer’s needs. But we made a business decision about three years ago that we were going to be one of these top few choices and have made the investments in people, product and process to one day meet that goal. As I look at market share reports, we are definitely now moving in that direction. For me, that was a wise decision. The decision was not just about how can we sell more units, it was about how can we expand our offerings within our current customer base; how can we attract more of the customer’s wallet,
If you don’t have intentions and a strategy of being the best, or at least considered be in the top few choices, this new market will be a distraction from the rest of your offerings. dustrial equipment and compact tractor provider. I really sensed that we needed to get into the consumer end of mowing equipment, and our current premium tractor provider had not expanded much into that market as of yet. I decided to take on a lawn equipment line that I felt would appeal much more the masses of consumers as the price points were low, basically competing with the fleet stores at that time. After about four dismal seasons it was clear: Our customer base wasn’t interested in those products; our marketing efforts weren’t drawing those new customers that we had hoped for; and even our sales team was not interested in selling those products. This was diversification that made sense at the outset, but the cards were stacked against us, and I should have seen that. I didn’t do my homework. Let’s get back to Jack Welch’s philosophy on diversification. It does make sense.What he is really saying is this: If you don’t have intentions and a strategy of being the best, or at least considered be in the top few choices, this new market will be a distraction from the rest of your offerings. For some years, a couple of our competitors in a particular market have
and how these expanded relationships will now add greater opportunities to market other value-added products to these customers in the future. My advice to every dealer (and myself) is simple. Take the emotion of what you “feel” about a particular manufacturer or product line out of the equation, and clearly look at the return on investment (ROI) of those products. If you don’t see a return that meets your expectations, and you don’t have a clear strategy of how you are going to get that return, you need to strongly consider exiting that product or market. It is sometimes very hard, but you can’t imagine how some of those decisions will help to put the wind back in your sails and allow both current and new opportunities to flourish when you don’t have those PET anchors holding you back.
Greg German is President of German-Bliss Equipment, Inc. in Princeville, Ill., which operates three power equipment dealerships that market products for the lawn and garden, industrial and agricultural sectors. He can be contacted at P.O. Box 440, Princeville, IL 61559; fax 309-3852540; e-mail ggerman@german-bliss.com. The views of Greg German do not necessarily represent those of Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc.
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