New Products and Techologies

Chain saw users now have the ability to precisely sharpen dull chain in as few as 3-5 seconds when they use the new PowerSharp system developed by Blount, Inc., under its Oregon brand. Scheduled to roll out in the U.S. in May, and throughout Europe and other parts of the world later in 2010, PowerSharp will be distributed through a wide network of home improvement stores, hardware retailers, and servicing dealers. The PowerSharp system is available in a variety of configurations and fits most saws on the market, as well as models already in use.

According to Jake VanderZanden, Senior Vice President of Business Development for Blount, customers have been asking for a fast and easy solution for dull saw chain for at least 50 years. “PowerSharp is the result of intensive research and focused development and will make a landmark impact on the chain saw industry,” he says.

Consumers Want Market Confidence by Dale Stotts

Almost every year some “Consumer Buying Authority” predicts what the future buying habits of consumer needs will demand.  Yet at the same time an item or service will develop out of the abyss and become the “Next Hot Item.”  Take for instance in the early 1960s when chain saws broke the 15 lb. weight barrier, and before one could blink an eye McCulloch Corp., in 1968,  introduced the Power Mac 6 that weighed in under 9 lbs.  Another item that caught consumer buying interests was the “Pet Rock,” and this wasn’t on anyone’s radar scope before the Christmas buying season in 1975.  Still these so-called “consumer buying experts” try to predict the next consumer big demand.

So how is some marketing expert honestly going to predict what the next great “Pet Rock” or “Power Mac 6” consumer buying whim is going to be?  And what does this have to do with lawn and garden sales and servicing dealerships?  It just goes to prove a major point dealers have voiced to their suppliers for year

Dealers Can Offer Saw Safety Tips by Gent Simmons

Chain saws were once viewed to be strictly a logger’s tool, with skilled foresters wielding powerful saws with enormous bars and felling equally large trees. Now, chain saws are integral tools for landscapers, arborists, farmers and homeowners who are looking for an effective and labor-saving piece of equipment.

One thing that has not changed is the respect operating a chain saw demands. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 33,000 chain saw -related injuries occur annually. Forty-one percent of total chain saw injuries are to hands and arms; 39 to legs; 11% to heads and faces; 6% to feet and 3% to upper body. Beyond the risk of injuries to users, the federal government is cracking down on employers who don’t take the safety of their employees seriously by increasing fines for OSHA violations, including dealer technicians.

Take The 'Safe' Out Of 'Self-Servicing' by John Walker

These days, most dealers are looking for both additional sales and profit. If you are in that group, then ask yourself these two questions:

Do I have customers out there who purchased equipment from my dealership and are going elsewhere for their service requirements?

Do I have customers out there who purchased equipment from my dealership, but are servicing this equipment in their own shops with their own technicians?

Deep Thoughts - and a Laugh

1. Getting Wedded To an Idea And Sticking With It Too Long. Don’t marry a single idea. Remember, ideas are the currency of entrepreneurs. Play with many ideas and see which ones bring money and success.

2. No Marketing Plan. A marketing plan creates the kind of attention you need to get in front of the right types of people, companies, etc. It is what attracts people to you! There may be as many as 25 ways to market your business at no or low cost. A good marketing plan implemented effectively, efficiently, elegantly and consistently, will eliminate the need for “cold calls.”

Ethanol Update: Testing Results by Dan Shell

While the pressure on the EPA increases to approve E15—a 15% ethanol/gasoline blend as the U.S.’ standard transportation fuel that’s 50% higher than the current E10 widely in use across the country—evidence continues to mount that any such move will be disastrous to automotive and small engine end users nationwide.

With a late summer decision by EPA expected, fuel, automotive and small engine interests have repeatedly asked the agency to delay any approval until more long-term, complete testing can be performed. Recently, the EPA’s Coordinating Research Council that works with automotive and fuel suppliers released preliminary results from its E15 testing program, and the results aren’t pretty.

Supplier Sales, Distribution and Program News

Officials with Ariens Co. recently announced changes to the company’s executive management structure in order to allow for growth and provide more focus on key segments. “As the company continues to expand in product, brands, channels and geographic territory, it is important to organize our leadership teams in a way that ensures our ability to sustain growth as well as prepare for our next level of expansion,” says Dan Ariens, Ariens Co. President & CEO.

Jeff Hebbard will assume the new role of President of Ariens Co. Wholegoods Business, reporting to Dan Ariens. Hebbard previously held the position of Senior Vice President Sales, Marketing & Product Development. In this new role he will assume responsibility for all current brands of Ariens, Gravely, EverRide and Great Dane; recent acquisitions of Parker, Treker, and Kee; and expanding the Gravely Turf business.