PET 1022 digimag

No Business Like Show Business

JESSICA JOHNSON

For my entire life, my parents have been in “show business.” Not the Hollywood, “lights, camera, action!” show business, but the business of putting on trade shows. They are the ones who come in the week before the show and tape out the booth space. Direct the forklift traffic, and make sure every booth’s carpet color on the floor matches the color on the order form. They’ve worked shows all across the country: From Seattle to New York, Las Vegas, Chicago and Orlando. I’ve seen my mom trying to untangle wires that would eventually become part of an operating table for a surgeon and my dad holding a box filled with the latest Air Jordan prototypes. Quite literally there is a trade show for every industry on the planet.

Growing up, I thought it was kind of neat that my parents traveled to all these places and sort of in passing knew a little bit about a lot of different stuff. I fondly remember my mom working a large-scale poultry show in downtown Atlanta and being panicked when PETA showed up and dumped like sixty cubic yards of chicken poo at the front door. Naturally, after the poo incident, when it came time to enter the family business, I was a hard “no, thank you.”

So, I became a power equipment reporter and learned all about the magic that is GIE+EXPO. My journey to Louisville in ’22 will be lucky number nine representing PET. Minus a year of maternity leave, I’ve been heading to the Kentucky Expo Center, and looking forward to it, since I started working on the magazine over 10 years ago. Maybe there’s a little bit of “show business” in me, after all.

As my parents can attest, there are very few shows left in the world that have been able to weather the multitude of storms the decades have dealt, like the Louisville lawn and garden show has. While this year it might have a new name—we are all going to have to work super hard to remember Equip Expo—I know it will still be the same show we’ve all come to know, and love. Just bigger. And better. With more educational opportunities—y’all noticed Dan Shell’s name on Wednesday’s dealer education right? And then yours truly, aided by my esteemed colleague Jacqlyn Kirkland who is a social media genius, on Thursday afternoon. Plus, there’s Mutt Madness. I mean, where else in the world will you find the latest chain saw innovations, mowers on tracks, seminars on how to make your business better, and puppies. I mean, the Equip team really has thought of something for everyone.

But let’s be honest, we all know they had me at puppies. Stop by and say hello in the PET booth. Who knows, come Thursday afternoon there might be a new Shop PET… PET

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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 ® 2022 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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Loggin’

Turfmutt, CBS Shows Renew Partnership

The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI)’s TurfMutt Foundation has announced a renewed partnership with Mission Unstoppable and Lucky Dog on CBS. Both shows are produced by Hearst Media Production Group. Filming begins this fall at Lucky’s Mutt Madness, the national dog adoption event held during Equip Exposition, in Louisville, Ky., Thursday, October 20, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Freedom Hall at the Kentucky Expo Center.

The TurfMutt Foundation and its spokesdog, Mulligan, the “TurfMutt,” are dedicated to educating people on ways to create purposeful and environmentally-responsible living landscapes that everyone, including pets and wildlife, can enjoy. It also supports animal rescue, rehabilitation and adoption, including sponsoring Lucky’s Mutt Madness in conjunction with the Kentucky Humane Society.

Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation and OPEI, which owns Equip Exposition says, “Mutt Madness connects dogs needing homes with the very people who create the amazing landscapes families and their pets enjoy. Every year more than a dozen dogs find their forever home with an Equip Expo attendee through our event.”

Lucky’s Mutt Madness mission aligns well with Lucky Dog, an Emmy award winning show whose hosts rescue unwant ed pups and place them with loving families and which has been part of the CBS Saturday morning lineup for nine sea sons. The TurfMutt Foundation sponsored pet-friendly backyard makeovers and viewer tips in Lucky Dog, from 20152019 and again in 2022.

The TurfMutt Foundation also sponsored a May 2022 episode on careers in tree care on Mission Unstoppable, an educational series featuring women on the cutting edge of science and technology.

All Balls Racing, Stens Announce Sweepstakes

All Balls Racing Group and Stens are revving up powersports enthusiasts with the launch of the “Win this Beast” sweepstakes. The companies have part nered with Power Sports Nation and UTV Sports to rebuild and customize a 2019 Polaris General. One lucky win ner will get the tricked-out side-byside, outfitted with more than $10,000 of accessories and camo wrapped, courtesy of Mossy Oak. This adventure vehicle has an approximate retail value of up to $27,700.

The lucky winner will unlock the ultimate adventure with performance and comfort from the powerful and versatile Polaris General loaded with high-powered accessories, plus a master rebuild and tuning from the experts at Power Sports Nation and UTV Sports.

Accessories, options and upgrades to the grand prize side-by-side feature brands:

All Balls Racing Tiger Lights

Vertex Pistons

Sedona

Open Trail

Cylinder Works

Hot Cams

Hot Rods

Pivot Works

The sweepstakes runs through October 23, 2022. Enter to win by visiting www.WinthisBeast.com.

Stihl Names New HR VP

Melody Doleman has been named Vice President of Human Resources of Stihl Inc. and as sumed her position on Sept. 6, 2022, re sponsible for overall strategic manage ment of human re

sources for the company, including talent acquisition, development, employee rela tions, performance management, benefits and compensation.

Doleman joins Stihl after a successful career with HII Mission Technologies di vision where she most recently served as Vice President of Human Resources of the Nuclear and Environmental Services business unit. Prior to HII, she served as Vice President of Human Resources/Op erations at B&B Manufacturing Inc.

Of her new role, Doleman says, “Stihl is known for innovation, leadership, and a commitment to their people. I look for ward to bringing my passion for building highly engaged and empowered teams to the organization and working together to grow this world-class organization’s tra dition of excellence.”

She received a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication/Media Studies from the University of South Carolina, is a certified Gallup Strengths Coach, and is a member of the Society for Human Resources Management.

Melody Doleman

Altoz Adds Larson; Cardinal

Altoz has re cently added two key personnel to its team: Rod Larson joining as the Service Parts and Accessories Manager, while Chris Cardinal has been added as a Sales Support Specialist.

With over 35 years of experi ence in the out door equipment industry, Larson is well-versed in many aspects of the business.

Having owned and operated a power equip ment business, and as parts and pricing manager for a major powersports manufacturer, he understands both dealer and the manu facturer objectives.

"Rod's extensive experience and strategic vision are assets that will bene-

fit our dealers, customers and organization," comments Altoz Sales and Marketing Director, Karl Bjorkman. "As the Service Parts and Accessories Manager, Rod will focus on working with research and development to grow the Altoz accessories line, manage inventory, and administer programs for service parts and accessories."

Larson says, "This position is a great fit for me with my experience in power equipment and powersports. I'm eager to make a difference and increase Altoz's parts and accessories offerings. I'm fortu nate to work for a company that has a sincere dedication to their employees, dealers, customers and community.”

Cardinal’s responsibilities will in clude supporting Altoz dealers and customers and taking part in Altoz events and promotions. He has over 20 years of sales and customer service ex perience and six years of business ownership experience.

"We are excited that Chris has joined us. His experience will be critical as we continue to focus on growth and providing sales and marketing support," said Altoz Sales and Marketing Director, Karl Bjorkman. "Chris' enthusiasm for working with people and passion for working in a sales environment will be great assets."

Kenect Acquires Friendemic

Kenect, a texting platform, used by dealerships to communicate with their customers, generate reviews, produce leads, collect payments and increase revenue, has announced that it has completed the acquisition of Friendemic, a leading provider of online reputation and digital communication software solutions for powersports dealerships and manufacturers. This transaction brings together two companies with the shared mission of connecting businesses with their customers. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

With this combination, Kenect will have nearly 8,000 customers across North America.

Friendemic customers will now have access to Kenect’s world-class texting, payment collection, and communication tools.

“Putting Friendemic and Kenect together creates one of the best digital communication platforms on the market,” says Friendemic CEO, Steve Pearson. “We’re thrilled for how this will advance the capabilities available to our customers and the industry.”

Kohler Co. Elects Chair Of The Board

The Kohler Co. Board of Directors has elected President and CEO David Kohler to the addi tional role of Chair of the Board, follow ing the passing of Executive Chairman Herbert V. Kohler, Jr. on September 3 at age 83. The Board of Directors had previously un dertaken a comprehensive succession planning process to ensure an orderly transition of leadership to guide the global, privately held organization.

Kohler will Chair the Board of Directors and Executive Committee, in addition to his role as CEO, which will include full scope responsibility for the three business groups of Kohler Co. (Kitchen & Bath, Power, Hospitality) and all enterprise functions. He has been with Kohler Co. for over 31 years and was elected to the role of President and CEO in 2015, having previously served as President and COO since 2009. He is the fourth generation of Kohler family leadership since the company’s inception in 1873, and only the ninth person to lead the company over the last 149 years.

“I learned so much from my father, including a tireless strong work ethic, leading with candor and humility, and always driving to innovate. He be lieved that you must have passion for whatever you do in life if you want to be successful. Working alongside him for decades showcased the impact of embracing an entrepreneurial spirit, not being afraid to fail, and always striving for accuracy and consistency. He left an indelible mark on me per sonally and professionally,” David comments of his father Herbert V. Kohler, Jr. Under David’s leadership, the company surpassed $8 billion in annual revenues in 2021.

As chair of the organization’s Executive Leadership Diversity Board, Kohler oversees the objectives and progress toward achieving them. “Every associate must have the opportunity to achieve their full potential in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment. It requires our ongoing investment, focus, and commitment to continue leading boldly,” he adds.

David Kohler

Rod Larson

Chris Cardinal

Portland’s Stark Street: ‘Be The Easiest Buy’

to one of Stark Street Lawn & Gar den’s five branch locations that encir cle the Rose City.

played out as we thought it might, really, due to the record wet weather we had up through June.”

BY DAN SHELL

PORTLAND, Ore.

Anyone looking for premium power equipment to buy or have serviced in the greater Portland, Ore. area is less than a 30 minute drive

Despite staffing issues and supply chain concerns that all dealers are fighting right now, Stark Street has fared well: 2021 was the best year ever for the business, and this summer has brought more of the same thanks to a late and damp spring that extended plant growth well into the summer months.

This year, four branches had their best sales months ever in June, and July and August continued a strong trend as well, says owner Tom Jenne. “It’s

Background

Stark Street Lawn & Garden dates to 1965 and a small Quonset hut just down the road and across the street from its current location on StarkStreet in north east Portland. Jenne remembers the dealership from his childhood and occasionally buying parts there for his athome mower repair business.

Jenne started working for the dealer-

With six branches, Stark Street Lawn & Garden is always a convenient choice.

ship in 1989 and also began working his way through a final year of college. He proved a quick study, as the owner had been looking to sell the business, and Jenne worked out an agreement to buy it in 1994.

In an era when many dealerships hadn’t yet made the leap to modern retailing, Jenne pursued—and still does—a compelling blend of modern, convenient retailing combined with value-added service to make Stark Street “an easier buy” for customers.

Following his success in the business that included a new branch expansion into the fast-growing southwest Portland metro market—and for his involvement in raising awareness among suppliers that Oregon’s Commercial Code requires dealership suppliers to pay dealer-listed labor rates for warranty work—Jenne was named PET Dealer of the Year in 1999.

At the time, Jenne was working to get the new Sherwood, Ore. branch on sound footing—an effort that took the better part of five years before it turned the cor ner. If anything, the expansion taught him

Sale, left, needed an after school job and 30 years later is helping run the company. Owner Jenne says having the right people is key to success for six-branch dealership.

the importance of having experienced people in place and to expend the re sources required for success. The Sher wood store, “Started off a bit rocky, but it’s a powerhouse today,” Jenne says.

Today, Stark Street Lawn & Garden offers a wide selection of product lines,

including Stihl, Echo, Shindaiwa, Little Wonder and Mantis handheld equipment and Honda, Cub, Exmark, Ferris, Toro, Walker and Wright mower lines, Mahin dra tractors, American Landmaster UVs, plus BCS, Echo-Bear Cat, Billy Goat, Ryan, Bluebird, Kawasaki, McLane, Power Trim and BE Pressure Washers.

Expansion Phase

The new Sherwood branch kicked off a roughly 15-year period of amazing expansion for Stark Street Lawn & Garden that culminated with its sixth branch opening in 2013.

Several years after opening the Sherwood store, Jenne got wind of a longtime dealership in Beaverton that was closing. A small store, it was acquired in 2003 and later expanded when an adjacent business moved, but it gave the dealership representation in a key part of the greater Portland metro market.

Jenne had to hop in his car and go scouting earlier this year when the Beaverton store property the dealership was leasing was sold unexpectedly, and the branch moved to a new location less than two miles away. The new location opened in late June this year, and has done well, Jenne says.

Thanks to preparation and planning, the mid-season move went well, Jenne says, adding that the store posted a strong July sales effort, “and it feels like our customers are finding their way there just fine.”

A few years after the Beaverton store opened, word of another dealer ship looking to sell reached Jenne— only this store was more than three hours away in Bend. The largest city in central Oregon, Bend is a different but

EQUIPMENT TRADE

growing market that Jenne had been looking at for several years before the opportunity came up.

The new Bend venture opened in 2006. “It’s done well—especially when it snows,” Jenne said of the store’s loca-

Warehouse space is at a premium: Wheeled goods go to two locations and are moved out when needed. Handheld is shipped direct to each branch.

tion on the drier, cooler east side of the Cascade Mountains. There, mower season is a little later and shorter, but there’s more saw work and handheld work overall, he adds.

A year later, Jenne went back to the

future when Stark Street Lawn & Garden opened a branch in Oregon City, where Jenne had worked for 10 years as a mechanic at a small family dealership. In returning, Jenne even found a closed gas station on the site of a former junkyard-landfill where he would buy old mowers for next to nothing when he was a kid, fix them up and sell them in the want ads.

More importantly, the new branch, which opened in 2007, is just around the corner of the busiest Home Depot in the state, and traffic shows it. “We had wanted some exposure in that part of the city,” Jenne says, noting that the branch, which does the third-most volume of the six Stark Street branches, could likely do more if it was larger.

Opening four branches in nine years was quite a pace, so Stark Street took a few years off before opening its sixth branch, this one in Newberg, Ore., in 2013. Located outside and southwest of greater Portland, the branch is in a more rural market with lots of orchards, vineyards and row crops and gives the overall business a more diverse market outlook.

People In Place

As Jenne has mentioned, it’s critical have the right people in place who make such an extended business run. One key individual for Stark Street Lawn & Garden is Ryan Sale, Vice President and General Manager of the company, in charge of overall operations. He ensures that the branches all work well together and that efficiencies of scale can be realized among the op-

erations whenever possible.

With the company now going on its 30th year, Sale is the employee all independent businesses are looking for: the local kid who needed an after-school job, started on the end of a broom and ended up helping run the company.

In Sale’s case, he started in 1993 at he age of 18, doing assemblies and deliveries and whatever was needed, stayed with the company while he completed an engineering degree and has remained on the staff now for almost 30 years, becoming a partner along the way.

Mike Moll is Jenne’s business partner, and the two met when Moll was brokering insurance for the dealership before Jenne bought it. Moll and Jenne became good friends, and over a golf game years ago the two decided to partner up for the Sherwood branch location, buying a lot and building from scratch with their own cash and some borrowed money.

“It was a pretty bold move looking back,” Jenne says, adding that the two added more locations “as it made sense.” Moll takes a low profile in the business but is closely involved in major decision-making, Jenne says, noting that the “mixture of traits and personalities” among the three has been a powerful factor in the dealership’s success.

Coverage

Looking at Stark Street’s footprint in the greater Portland market, the dealership has it covered: north, south east and west, plus branches in diverse markets in Newberg and Bend. Jenne says he may have been feeling a bit “10 feet tall and bulletproof” when he began the branch expansions in 1998, “But we’ve been able to leverage it, and it’s worked.”

Whole goods and parts are both or-

n

Labor rate is $110/hr. The dealership is closely watching for electric equipment impact on service department.

dered centrally. Initially, parts were ordered separately at each location but since 2004 parts orders are ordered centrally as well. According to Jenne, the business was missing out on discounts by not combining orders, and the practice allows branch managers to concentrate on customer satisfaction instead of chasing parts.

Of course, the pandemic has made it tougher as it has for all small businesses to staff, plus coordinate equipment shipments and moving product around town.

Handheld products are shipped directly to the branch. Due to a lack of warehouse space, wheeled goods are shipped to the two largest stores at Stark Street and the Sherwood HQ branch. A small fleet of delivery vans and trailers keeps inventory moving.

Staffing remains tough, especially through the pandemic. In addition to issues that have led to reduced hours and five-day weeks at some branches, Jenne notes that the people the industry has relied on for entry level employ

ment and an informal talent pool— “Those guys who are handy with screwdrivers that we’ve always found,” he says—are just not as plentiful.

In early summer, Sale noted that the dealership was running 10-12 employees less than he’d like across the six branches. “But everyone’s fighting it,” he says.

Service

Labor rate is the same across all branches: $110/hr. Jenne notes that if there is a silver lining it’s the equip ment is much more reliable than when he began working in the shop and doesn’t require the types of repairs and rebuilds that were more common 20+ years ago.

Stark Street’s techs are also finding opportunities in battery-powered units with more diagnostic work as OEMs don’t want to swap out expensive batteries, and as battery equipment becomes larger with riding units, there are more components requiring service.

Sale notes there’s lot of demand for battery-powered equipment, and if anything he believes it’s adding to rev enues: gas-powered handheld sales re main strong although he believes there’s bound to be some replacement at some point.

Sale says he’s watching the electric evolution closely to see how manufactur ers react to increased battery power de mand and expectations from customers. Currently, he’s leaning toward working to target specific electric niches instead of taking on a mass electric product line marketing and sales effort—but he adds that might change depending on how the rechargeable market develops.

Future

Looking ahead, Jenne, age 62, says that no expansions are on the table right now—although he and Sale still get calls from dealers who are looking to sell. Currently, Jenne spends a good bit of time working with the properties: wiring, plumbing, maintenance, lot work, fencing, whatever needs doing.

He says he’s proud of the organization he’s helped build—and the many employees who made it all possible. Jenne says he was always looking to build something bigger and better.

“We wanted the four corners of Portland, and it’s all worked out be cause we had certain expectations for the business and we’ve always worked to that.”

EXPOelite

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following companies, who will be on exhibit at the upcoming Equip Expo, in Louisville, Ky., submitted these editorial profiles and images to complement their advertisements placed elsewhere in this issue. Please refer to those advertisements for web site and contact information. All statements and claims are attributable to the companies.

ARCHER—PMD Archer is a 100% Australian-owned, China-based manufacturing and trading company offering over 10,000 quality parts and accessories for the chain saw and lawn & garden industry.

We manufacture saw chain in our modern state-of-the-art factory which is ISO endorsed and chains UL approved. Dedicated manufacturing methods along with strict quality control programs assists in manufacturing high quality saw chain supplied to pro replacement markets around the world.

Archer has a large offering of lawn & garden products—including trimmer line, heads, unique brushcutter blades, robotic mower parts and blades, and spare parts for trimmers and brushcutters.

We use a modern laboratory and QC programs to audit all parts and accessories that we sell to our many partners and customers around the world. This ensures consistent quality and provides our customers with the confidence that they require for dealing with China today. It also enables us to 100% guarantee all products and shipments.

Our own in-house packaging department allows us to offer all types of packaging including—clamshell retail and pro distributor, as well as offering private label, bar coding, and part numbering—catering to all customer’s requirements.

Our factory currently sells to over 80 countries with 60 Archer distributors around the world. The Archer factory, warehouse and showroom is located in Jinhua, China and invites all interested people to visit when it becomes possible again. We offer you risk-free business.

ECHO—For over 50 years, professional landscapers and arborists have trusted the Echo name as “The Professionals’ Choice.” Equip Exposition is all about experiencing the newest equipment and Echo is pleased to say we’ve introduced 127 new models since 2017.

Stop by our Indoor Booth #5112 to see what’s new along with the Echo eFORCE 56V battery system and our Echo X Series lineup with equipment that is powerful, light weight, and provides the professional with greater productivity. But don’t just see them, visit our Outdoor Booth #7451D and experience the performance yourself!

At our indoor booth, in between browsing our great lineup of equipment, you can choose from three different t-shirt designs and take home some commemorative apparel from the show. We will have both gas- and battery-powered solutions on display as well as our autonomous mowers.

At our outdoor booth, you can demo everything from chain saws to trimmers to blowers including the PB-9010—the most powerful backpack blower in the industry and the new Echo eFORCE 56V battery system! Get a cool giveaway just by visiting a few stations and trying out the best equipment the industry has to offer. You also have a chance to win a CS-501P chain saw by slicing a slab off a log that weighs exactly 1 lb.—well as close as you can get. Also witness Jason Emmons wield some dangerous artistry as he creates intricate carvings with his Echo chain saws. It’s going to be an amazing show—don’t miss a second!

Echo and Shindaiwa’s line-up include both gas and battery-powered products: chain saws, power pruners, string trimmers and brushcutters, leaf blowers, hedge trimmers, edgers, the pro attachment series, sprayers, spreaders, cut off saw, chipper/shredders, wheeled trimmers, generators and power washers. We also have complementary accessories, parts, and safety gear.

HEFTEE INDUSTRIES—For nearly 25 years the Heftee 2000 and 4000 have been the lift of choice for professional power equipment technicians working on the widest range of riding mowers and commercial turf equipment. Heftee lifts are ideal for shops short on floor space; there is no special installation required and the Heftee 2000 and 4000 operate on 110V.

Safety is Heftee’s first priority. All our lifts are designed and tested to hold four times their rated capacity, and our safety record is unmatched in the industry. Technicians stand comfortably with unrestricted access to service areas, no longer lying on cold concrete floors in awkward positions to perform under-equipment jobs. The lifts deliver both improved ergonomics and increased technician productivity.

Heftee lifts are freestanding for easy relocation within shop. Heftee’s revolutionary singlemast design gives unrestricted access to the equipment. There are no crossbars or twisting cables, and the jacks, booms, support arms and easily adjustable work platforms included with the lifts—all integrate with the lift to make it a complete power equipment workstation. The Heftee 4000 safely accommodates equipment up to 87 inches wide and lifts up to 4,000 lbs., to 6 feet, in less than a minute. The Heftee 4000 standard equipment package comes complete with jacks, boom and extension arms for completing virtually any repair job. It was specifically designed for the larger commercial riding mowers and turf equipment. The Heftee 2000 safely handles equipment up to 60 inches wide and lifts up to 2,000 lbs., to 6 feet, in less than a minute. Like it’s bigger brother, the Heftee 2000 standard equipment package includes jacks, boom and extension arms. The Heftee 2000 is ideal for medium to small riding lawn mowers with 60-in. mowing decks and smaller. Making hard-to-service equipment easy to service is Heftee’s business. Any lift can lift. Heftee lifts are equipped with unique features that enhance service. The technician can focus on repairing hard-to-service turf equipment and utility vehicles better, faster, safer.

HUSTLER—This year at Equip Expo 2022, Hustler Turf will be displaying three of our most popular commercial zero-turn mowers, each with an updated design for 2023. Built with the professional landscaper in mind, the HyperDrive, Super Z, and X-One models include more creature comforts, mechanical upgrades, and even a few modifications requested by our customers.

New features common on the HyperDrive, Super Z, and X-One include a heavy-duty 7-ga. engine guard, rubber floor mats, and fabricated steel step treads on the VX and VX4 decks. The VX deck has also been reconfigured with a reinforced brace on the discharge area, similar to the VX4.

Running out of gas in the middle of a job is frustrating and wastes valuable time. To aid in adding and maintaining fuel levels, we’ve outfitted this trio with updated fender fuel tanks (12 gal.) with large fill cap, plus easy-to-read mechanical fuel gauges.

Our customers asked for updated personal amenities and we delivered. Creature comforts include an extra high-back suspension seat with three-inch travel, upholstered armrests, and even a newly designed steering arm profile. The HyperDrive, Super Z, and X-One machines will also be equipped with dual USB ports for multiple charging options. We believe a mower should look as good as it runs so the HyperDrive Super Z, and X-One each get an updated paint scheme with added black accents.

For the HyperDrive, the new upgrades improve upon an already impressive mowing machine. The HyperDrive is outfitted with the exclusive Hustler Turf HyperDrive hydro system featuring industrial Danfoss pumps and high torque wheel motors, 3-gal. reservoir, aluminum oil cooler, and hot oil shuttle. We’re so confident about this hydraulic system, we back it with a five-year 3,000-hour limited warranty.

IDEAL—From the DOS years to going mobile, Ideal and c-Systems have paved the way for new and innovative dealership technologies for over 30 years. We are excited to be back again at the Equip Expo and show you what we have been working on inperson! This year, you can find us at booths 7004 and 7006.

We take feedback from our dealers to heart and truly value this opportunity to connect with you and, most importantly, have fun doing it. We would love to show you all the ways our software can make managing your dealership easier with features like TargetCRM, Parts Locator, Cloud, and more!

The Power of TargetCRM

l TargetCRM is a sales and marketing platform that helps turn your one-time customers into repeat buyers.

l Use real-time, two-way text and email conversations to engage customers more easily and strengthen your sales and service—even in the off-season

l Put an end to phone tag and reduce voicemails by up to 80%

Find The Parts You Need With Parts Locator

l Look up affordable parts for old equipment at nearby dealerships

l View each part’s location on an interactive map so you can send your inquiries to dealers immediately and secure items for clients

l Have aging stock? Use Parts Locator to sell those too

Access Your System From Anywhere With Cloud

l Untie your team from their workstations

l Eliminate the time spent on regular backups and hardware maintenance

l Quickly recover data in case of emergencies

Visit booths 7004 and 7006 to speak to our knowledgeable team of industry experts! We will answer all your questions about these solutions and show you the full extent of our dealership management software. We take pride in our ability to listen to dealers and equip them with best tools to help their business thrive—no matter what changes impact the market. We can’t wait to see you!

KRESS—Kress is leading the transition from gas-powered commercial lawn equipment for professional operations with the introduction of the industry’s first true game-changing innovation in battery-powered equipment. Until today, despite a growing environmental awareness, commercial landscape professionals and facilities managers in the industrial channel have been forced to accept high-emission, gas-powered equipment as the only economical option that provides them with the performance and runtime required to complete a full day’s work, but Kress has changed all of that: Now commercial landscapers and facilities managers can save money and time by switching from gas- to battery-power.

Based on the current price of gas, a typical landscaping business can recoup the entire purchase price of their Kress battery-powered equipment in less than one season. Kress uses proprietary battery cell technology with each 60 V Cyberpack battery capable of producing up to twice the power output of standard lithium-ion batteries. The added power output allows Kress power equipment to meet or exceed the same performance as comparable commercial gas-powered machines but with less noise and zero harmful emissions. In ad dition, the Kress Cyberpack battery can be re-charged thousands of times—up to 10 times more than standard lithium-ion batteries. The extended battery life supports multiple re-charges per day and greatly reduces the cost of replacement battery packs over the life of the equipment. The Kress 8-minute Cybersystem is the first and only cordless battery power supply that will allow commercial landscapers to finally replace their expensive gas-powered equipment without sacrificing performance, power or runtime.

MARUYAMA—Japanese engineering and industrial grade mechanics, Maruyama has been a premium manufacturing and equipment company for over 127 years.

Our new BL70 series of backpack blowers is one of the latest in our long line of high-end power equipment models. This mid-size backpack blower has all the features that a discerning landscape professional or landowner requires.

Equipped with a 61 cc 2-cycle engine that displaces up to 885 cfm/ 185 MPH at the tube for maximum output and a large 71 oz. capacity fuel tank a landscaper can power through even the toughest job.

With a dry weight of 20.9 lbs., durable lightweight tubing, comfortable padded shoulder straps, extra thick back pads, ergonomic anti-vibration springs and cooling channels on the back plate it is designed for all day performance.

While not in use, transportation is made simple with an easily gripped oversized carry handle incorporated into the back plate. The carry handle, coupled with an integrated wide starting step, large pull cord handle, and assisted start system makes the BL70 one of the most starting force efficient units in the U.S. market today.

Our entire backpack blower equipment line is available in your choice of hip assist (frame mounted) and pistol grip (tube mounted) throttle controls.

Included with our qualifying commercial/ residential equipment is our industry leading IRON-5 year warranty. Our far-reaching distributor and dealer network is an appreciated added benefit to our customer base.

With all that comes with purchasing and owning Maruyama equipment, the value-to-cost ratio cannot be surpassed!

MASPORT—Masport continues to be a household name in both New Zealand and Australia with a proud engineering history dating back 112 years. Masport continues to grow and establish itself in the North American and European markets and is now sold in over 45 countries worldwide. Over the past 11 seasons Masport has developed an extensive range of consumer and professional rotary gasoline walk-behind mowers, as well as cylinder mowers, shredders, edgers and cultivators in the U.S. and Canadian markets.

First introduced in the U.S. in 2012, Power Distributors is Masport’s distributor in U.S. and Power Source Canada, for Canada. They distribute the Masport range of consumer and commercial power equipment to servicing dealers across North America. Masport is a “dealer” brand in North America and is ideally suited to this form of distribution due to the high quality and feature rich lawncare machinery engineered and manufactured since the 1940s.

Masport Mowers are available in various cutting widths and are powered by Briggs & Stratton engines. Masport mowers mulch, catch and side discharge, feature aluminum and steel decks, ball bearing wheels and single lever height adjustment.

At this year’s Expo, Masport features its commercial walk behind mower. The “Masport Contractor” 3’N1 professional mower has a very robust 14 ga., 21-in. steel deck, fully professional “GT” 3-speed transmission, die-cast aluminum wheels fitted with precision bearings, bolt-in heavy-duty axles and large diameter heavy gauge handles. It is available in both engine brake and BBC configuration.

Masport offers competitively priced, quality, unique products which are not available in the Big Box Stores.

MILWAUKEE—As landscape maintenance companies make equipment purchasing decisions, there is an increase in professionals starting to look towards battery-powered equipment as their preferred solutions. This trend is strongly influenced by emerging regulations to use low noise and emissions-free equipment around the U.S., along with the continued development of battery-powered technology and the ease of use that accompanies gas-free equipment. As an industry leader in battery-powered technology, Milwaukee Tool understands what it takes to combine batteries, motors, and electronics to deliver disruptive innovation and meet the performance needs of the landscape maintenance professional.

Designed to meet the demands of the professional, Milwaukee introduced the M18 Fuel 21-in. self-propelled dual battery mower which delivers more max torque than a 200 cc gas engine with its’ Powerstate brushless motor, allowing it to take on demanding applications without bogging down or stalling. An optimized steel deck and higher blade speed delivers the best cut quality in mulching, bagging, and rear side discharge, leading to increased lift and superior airflow as well as reducing missed blades of grass and clumps compared to competitive mowers. The Redlink Plus Intelligence provides an instantaneous throttle response for blade and drive motors, increasing control and productivity. When removing 1 in. of grass at a 3 MPH self-propelled pace, a user can get up to 60 minutes of run time, or about ½ acre of cutting when paired with two fully charged M18 Redlithium High Output HD12.0 batteries. For additional functionality, the mower is designed with a single point height adjustment to easily change between cutting heights and cover a wide range of grass species while variable speed self-propelled functionality paired with rear wheel drive gives users more control during use. To meet performance expectations in certain high-demand applications while maintaining system compatibility, the M18 Fuel 21-in. self-propelled dual battery mower requires the simultaneous use of two M18 Redlithium batteries.

Milwaukee is committed to developing high-performance, sustainable solutions for landscape maintenance professionals. They will continue to leverage their extensive background in battery-powered job site solutions to provide game-changing power equipment solutions that increase safety and productivity.

PELLENC—Zero emission with breathtaking power: The Airion backpack blower from Pellenc delivers unprecedented power and stretches the limits of what batterypowered tools can do while remaining 10 decibels quieter than a gas blower equivalent. With an amazing 27N of thrust and 858 cfm of airflow the Airion backpack blower is designed for an optimized efficiency and extended range. Keep control with the smart handle including four progressive speeds and one boost mode.

An HMI screen on the handle displays the remaining battery in % or hr.-min. to know where you stand during your work. The Airion backpack blower is the most ergonomic blower on the market with 10 times less vibration compared to a gas equivalent. It includes comfortable cushions and a three-point adjustable harness. With its IP54 protection rating against dust and water ingress, the Airion backpack blower lets you work in all weather conditions. The pivot connecting the blower to the harness allows for effortless freedom of movement. With its smart handle and innovative design, the Airion backpack blower offers significant advantages in terms of ergonomics. This new blower is waterproof, quiet, and emits no fumes, making it ideal for regular and intensive work, whatever the weather.

STENS—Darkness doesn’t stand a chance against Tiger Lights’ powerful and versatile LED lighting. With plug and play applications for agricultural, outdoor power, industrial, and powersports equipment, your day doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down!

Tiger Lights introduced the powerful ROPS kit for zero-turn mowers in 2022. With easy installation and universal fitment for 2 in. and 3 in. bars on roll-over protection systems for mowers and other power equipment, the Tiger Lights ROPS kit allows for mounting in multiple locations to achieve optimum angles and maximum coverage. Each LED light installed emits the light equivalent to a car headlight to achieve peak visibility when working during early mornings or late nights, making it a game-changer for landscapers, maintenance professionals, and homeowners everywhere.

Stens will be showcasing the ROPS kit along with other versatile LED lighting solutions from Tiger Lights at the 2022 Equip Exposition in Louisville, Ky., from October 19-21. The Stens booth will also showcase replacement agricultural parts from Atlantic Quality Parts, precision-engineered powersports parts from All Balls Racing, German-made saw chain and chain saw parts from Sabre, and best-selling Xtreme PTO clutches. If practical and professional retail solutions is something you’re after, the Stens booth will also showcase the TriLink and Stens packaged parts programs.

Stens is bringing the best in the aftermarket game to Equip Exposition.

STIHL—For more than 90 years, Stihl has defined the future of power equipment. This year, we are continuing this legacy of innovation by delivering even more product options and solutions to our customers.

Visit the Stihl indoor booth to see the latest Stihl product innovations—including new professional battery powered products, energy management solutions and more. In addition, Team Stihl spokesperson and professional arborist, Mark Chisholm, will be onsite providing expert tree care tips and advice to attendees. New for this year! Come get hands-on and demo the latest and greatest in Stihl products first hand at this year’s outdoor booth location.

l Exclusive Stihl Dealer Appreciation Event

New Product Presentation: Wednesday, October 19, 2022, 10:30 a.m.

During dealer-only hours, join us in the Stihl booth to enjoy a special presentation at 10:30 a.m. previewing new Stihl products. One lucky attendee will win $5,000! Must be present to win.

l Stihl Oktoberfest

Wednesday, October 19, 3:00 p.m.

You’re invited! Join us in the Stihl indoor booth for our annual Stihl Oktoberfest celebration from 3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

l Fourth Street Live! Concert Series

Wednesday, October 19 & Thursday, October 20, 8:00 p.m.

This year’s Fourth Street Live! Downtown Louisville concert series kicks off with a performance from Equip Expo” legendary house band, The Crashers, on Wednesday. On Thursday, American country music singer and multi-platinum icon, Trace Adkins headlines the show.

l The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshops

Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, October 19-21, Multiple Sessions

Presented by The Davey Tree Expert Co. in collaboration with The Women's Tree Climbing Workshop, attendees will ascend to new heights with tree-climbing pro arborists as they share basic techniques and systems accepted within the industry to perform tree care operations safely, efficiently, and effectively. Workshops take place throughout the day in Freedom Hall.

SUNBELT—Sunbelt Outdoor Products has been committed to being your first choice for quality power equipment parts and accessories for over 60 years. With over 66,000 parts and growing we are confident that we will have the parts in stock that you need to keep your customers running.

2022 has been a busy year at Sunbelt with hundreds of new parts added across many categories! Many of the new parts added in 2022 are for John Deere Gator utility vehicles. Look for this category to grow even more in 2023! Sunbelt is also pleased to offer many new common wear parts and in addition, an offering of parts used for more substantial repairs and upgrades. Look for Sunbelt to be your source for quality aftermarket Gator parts in 2022 and beyond!

Sunbelt is also your source for Predator and XHT mower blades, the strongest blades on the market! Their strength and durability come from a patented austempering process that creates steel that is 30% harder than steel used in competing blades. Ideal for professionals, these blades require less sharpening, last longer and are lighter weight.

Find great pricing on Michelin Tweel at Sunbelt! These airless radial tires offer significant benefits over traditional tires for both commercial mowers and skid steers. Cross rough terrain easily! Say goodbye to flats, patch kits and bead sealers and maximize your productivity with Tweel!

TD BANK—Yard Card from TD Bank is a powerful consumer and commercial financing payment solution designed to help lawn & garden dealers grow sales, drive repeat purchases and build customer loyalty. In today’s marketplace, your customers expect payment options, so offering a financing program is one of the smartest decisions your dealership can make.

Here’s what Yard Card can do for you:

l Sell more with everyday financing offers and a revolving line of credit available to purchase equipment, parts, service and accessories

l Close the deal with strong credit limits

l Build customer loyaltywith ongoing promotions and your store name embossed on every card

l Ongoing marketing support and program training

l Offer commercial financing to your landscaping & business customers with Yard Card PLUS

Need another reason to choose Yard Card? According to TD’s 2021 Retail Experience Index, 98% of retail cardholders said financing was important when making a major power equipment purchase of $500 or more. As you can see, financing is the perfect fit for power equipment purchases. Plus, Yard Card can also help streamline your sales process with instant online transaction processing and fast funding. And, your cardholders will enjoy TD’s unmatched service should they ever need it.

WALBRO—Walbro Aftermarket offers an extensive line of replacement carburetors, carb repair kits, and fuel pumps for most power equipment, powersports, and marine. With more than 70 years of experience, Walbro is the leading fuel system supplier for the original equipment manufacturers. Walbro engineers have worked to develop the best solutions for the lawn & garden and powersports markets, and have brought these innovations to the parts and service market.

Walbro manufactures and distributes its products globally, with engineering centers of excellence in Cass City, Mich. and Kakuda, Japan. For decades, Walbro carbs and fuel pumps have been the most trusted on the market, utilizing superior materials and processes to provide the highest quality solutions. Walbro owns the product from engineering to die-casting to machining and final assembly and test. Every Walbro carburetor made is flow-bench-tested so the customer knows they are buying the best.

Specializing in high-quality components and manufacture, Walbro carbs, carb repair kits, and fuel pumps are the leaders in reliability and longevity. Leveraging the same engineering capabilities as the OEMs have come to trust, Walbro provides upgrade kits and chemicals to help ward off the effects of ethanol fuels and long storage times with the spiral diaphragm carb kits and its uniquely blended fuel treatment. A full list of carbs, carb repair kits, and upgrade kits can be found at Walbro’s website and more are being added weekly.

YAMAHA—The EF2200iS delivers 2,200 watts of power to meet the demands of today’s most popular RVs and trailers, built with Yamaha premium inverter technology, delivering clean power for sensitive electronics.

Yamaha’s high-output MZ80 OHV, air-cooled, single cylinder 4-stroke engine delivers a maximum of 2,200 watts of AC output with a maximum AC current of 18.3 amps at 120 V. For additional power, Yamaha’s Twin Tech parallel function allows two units to connect together for a combined power output of 3,600 watts or 30 amps. The EF2200iS is also built for efficient and quiet operation, capable of running at a continuous 10.5 hours with noise levels of 57-65 dBA at a quarter-rated load, allowing people to maintain a normal conversation with ease while it’s running.

How To Find Success: Six Women’s Perspectives

Six women in the industry discuss their experiences, insights into industry trends, and their advice for other women navigating careers.

BY KAITLIN JEWER

In any industry, a key ingredient in the recipe for business success is having the right people on your team. Even though thepower equipment industry has typically been dominated by men, times are changing. More and more women are finding success in dealerships, manufacturers, and service providers across North America.

Despite the labor and supply challenges that have plagued the industry over the past few years,year-over-year sales continued to grow and are up over pre-pandemic. However, the industry is changing, and two of the most notable changes is the potential econom ic downturn and the continued adoption of new technology.

“In the grind of working in a dealership, running a dealership, and then dealing with customers who chal lenge you, it can feel exhausting. But as a woman, you bring so much to the table on so many levels. So, don’t let that be undermined by someone coming into your dealership and treating you like you are worth less.”

—Sara Hey

Power Equipment Trade: In your experience in the industry, have you noticed any changes or new trends?

Angela Raddant, Director of Sales & Marketing, AriensCo.: “The nearterm reality however presents us with a real chance of an economic down turn that will affect us all. I believe this trend to be the one dealers should be thinking about now—as demand declines what brands will you stand behind, what areas of your business are recession-proof? Where can you invest now to weather the storm?”

Carissa Gingras, Director of Channel & Strategy, Oregon Tool: “As we all continue to manage ‘The Great Resignation,’ with a record number of people quitting their jobs to pursue more flexible work schedules and the ability to work from home, landscapers and dealers will need to find services, equipment and business tools that will allow them to do more, with less human resources.”

Sara Hey, Vice President, Bob Clements International: “There is also this continued adoption of technology that’s happening in power equipment dealerships. It’s been something that’s taken a little bit longer, I think in power equipment than some of the other industries to really like to take and run with. But as this next generation is coming up into the business, they’re more open to ideas of integrating technology into the business and creating more of a, we like to call an effortless experience, that Amazon-esque experience.”

It’s no secret that the past few years have been riddled with inventory challenges, whether that’s having low stock of models or finding the right parts for service. However, on top of inventory management, one of the biggest challenges in 2022

“I have found that the most efficient ran dealerships usually have a woman in management at some level. So, my advice is to not hesitate to step up and share organization and management skills so the whole company can benefit.”—Laura Wickard

will be building and maintaining an exceptional customer experience, especially given the labor shortages.

PET: What do you think is the biggest challenge dealers will face in 2022?

Melanie Linnemeier, Customer Support Team Lead, c-Systems Software: “Backorder fulfilment will continue to be the biggest challenge in the industry.Making sure they have that right balance between how much available inventory and how much they can and have on order.”

Gingras: “I think one of the biggest challenges facing dealers who are focused on servicing their customers will be global supply chain constraints.Dealers will need to work with manufacturers who can best meet their parts and service needs.”

Raddant: “Maintaining a customer-intimate or customer-centric focus. Like many service type industries, I see a decline in how we are treating customers. Long hours, lack of employees, product shortages and fear of sickness has driven a culture of acceptance around poor customer experience.”

Laura Wickard, Implementation Manager, Charter Software: “Finding people who want to work. Every dealership I’ve visited recently had open positions, but they can’t get people to even apply for jobs.”

PET: What is one piece of advice you would like to give to other women in the OPE industry?

Linnemeier: “My advice to women in the dealership industry is to stick to your guns. Don’t let people question your knowledge on a topic and don’t stop learning new things.”

Krystal Green, Director of Customer Support, Ideal, c-Systems and Charter: “Always bring your ideas to the table. No idea is too big or too small, just make your voice be heard and don’t be afraid to speak up. Confidence goes a long way with this male dominated industry.”

Wickard: “I have found that the most efficient ran dealerships usually have a woman in management at some level. So, my advice is to not hesitate to step up and share organization and management skills so the whole company can benefit.”

Gingras: “I think it’s critical for women in this industry to identify and participate in a woman-oriented association, group forum, or social media group that allows them to reach out for any type of advice. It’s unlikely whatever questions or challenges one woman has in this industry hasn’t been answered or experienced by someone else in this industry.”

Hey: “There are people who will walk into your dealership and say, ‘I want to talk to another man about this,’ but don’t let that deter you from the fact that you know what you’re doing and what you’re talking about. And you’re confident in that. In the grind of working in a dealership, running a dealership, and then dealing with customers who challenge you, it can feel exhausting. But as a woman, you bring so much to the table on so many levels. So, don’t let that be undermined someone coming into your dealership and treating you like you are worth less.”

“My advice to women in the dealership industry is to stick to your guns. Don’t let people question your knowledge on a topic and don’t stop learning new things.”

—Melanie Linnemeier

“Always bring your ideas to the table. No idea is too big or too small, just make your voice be heard and don’t be afraid to speak up. Confidence goes a long way with this male dominated industry.”

—Krystal Green

& Western

Mindfulness Changes Your Reactions

Leaders across the globe feel that the unprecedented busyness of modern-day leadership makes them more reactive and less proac tive. There is a solution to this hardwired, reactionary leadership ap proach: mindfulness.

One second may not sound like a lot, but it can be the difference between making a rushed decision that leads to failure and reaching a thoughtful conclusion that leads to increased performance. It’s the difference between acting out of anger and applying due patience. It’s a one-second lead over your mind, your emotions, your world.

Research has found that mindfulness training alters our brains and how we engage with ourselves, others, and our work. When practiced and applied, mindfulness fundamentally alters the operat ing system of the mind. Through repeated mindfulness practice, brain activity is redirected from ancient, reactionary parts of the brain, including the limbic system, to the newest, rational part of the brain, the prefrontal cortex.

In this way mindfulness practice decreases activity in the parts of the brain responsible for fight-or-flight and knee-jerk reactions while increasing activity in the part of the brain responsible for what’s termed our executive functioning. This part of the brain, and the executive functioning skills it supports, is the control center for our thoughts, words, and actions. It’s the center of logical thought and impulse control. Simply put, relying more on our executive functioning puts us firmly in the driver’s seat of our minds, and by extension our lives.

One second can be the difference between achieving desired re sults or not. One second is all it takes to become less reactive and more in tune with the moment. In that one second lies the opportu nity to improve the way you decide and direct, the way you engage and lead. That’s an enormous advantage for leaders in fast-paced, high-pressure jobs.

Here are five easily implemented tips to help you become more mindful:

Practice 10 minutes of mindfulness training each day. Most people find mornings the best time to practice mindfulness, but you can do it any time of day.

Avoid reading email first thing in the morning. Our minds are generally most focused, creative, and expansive in the morning. This is the time to do focused, strategic work and have important conversations. If you read your email as you get up, your mind will get sidetracked and you’ll begin the slide toward reactive leader ship. Making email your first task of the day wastes the opportunity to use your mind at its highest potential. Try waiting at least 30 minutes, or even an hour, after you get to work before checking your inbox.

Turn off all notifications. The notification alarms on your phone, tablet, and laptop are significant contributors to reactive leadership. They keep you mentally busy and put you under pres sure, thereby triggering reactionary responses. They cause damage far more than they add value.

Stop multitasking. It keeps your mind full, busy, and under pressure. It makes you reactive. Try to maintain focus on a single task, and then notice when you find your mind drifting off to anoth er task—a sign that your brain wishes to multitask.

Put it on your calendar. Schedule a check-in with your self every two weeks to assess how well you’re doing with the previous tips.

Although mindfulness isn’t a magic pill, it will help you more actively select your responses and make calculated choices instead of succumbing to reactionary decisions.

Source: 10 Minutes of Mindfulness Changes Your Reactions, Rasmus Hougaard, Harvard Business Review

PETevents

OCTOBER 19-21—Equip Expo, Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, Ky. Call 812-949-9200; visit equipexposition.com.

NOVEMBER 15-17—2022 North American Dealer Conference, Nashville, Tenn. Visit nadealerconference.com.

JANUARY 31-FEBRUARY 2, 2023—National Hardware Show, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nev. Call 203-840-5622; visit nationalhardwareshow.com.

APRIL 12-15, 2023—Equipment & Engine Training Council annual meeting, Walker Manufacturing Company, Fort Collins, Colo. Call 888-406-1810; visit eetc.org.

Listings are submitted months in advance. Always verify dates and locations with contacts prior to making plans to attend.

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

Echo 18 800.432.3246

Heftee Industries 31 800.755.7540

Ideal Computer Systems 11, 30 800.737.1620

Kress 16

Maruyama 10 940.383.7400

Masport 31 +64 9 571 5888

Milwaukee Tool 15 800.729.3878

Pellenc America 27 707.568.7286

PMD International 27 +61 3 8390 3933

Prufrex Innovative Power Products 10 +49 9103 7953 0

Rotary 17, 31, 40 800.841.3989

Stanley Black & Decker 9 620.327.1143

Stens Arrowhead Engineered Products 23 763.255.2555

Stihl 2 757.486.9100

Sunbelt Outdoor Products 7, 21 800.438.0660

TD Retail Card Services 5 800.538.3638

Walbro 14 520.229.5657

Yamaha 19 800.962.7926

ADLINK is a free service for advertisers and readers. The publisher assumes no liability for errors or omissions.

LOOKING BACK: July/August 1997

As the issue in your hands gears up for Equip Exposition in Louisville, the preview issue 25 years ago for the show—then called the International Lawn, Garden and Power Equipment Expo—focused on the 600 exhibits planned for indoors and 154 companies exhibiting outdoors.

As the article noted, “Perhaps the biggest change this year is the show days, which were moved from Sunday-Tuesday to Saturday-Monday in an effort to make the event more convenient for those who have busy business schedules and cannot afford to miss many working days…Another new feature is Dealer Night on Friday and Saturday, which includes free tickets to the Louisville Redbirds AAA minor league baseball game adjacent the Kentucky Exposition Center.”

Dealer Profile: Rick White, owner of Pittsford Power Equipment, East Rochester, NY, was into his 20th year of the business, starting small but growing quickly into the commercial trade, with sales exceeding $500,000 in 1996 and expecting a substantial leap in 1997, carrying Echo, Shindaiwa, Toro, Lawn-Boy and Kees.

Readers are encouraged to send relevant historical lawn and garden media items in.