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Printed in Canada ISSN 0383-7920
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Subscription Rates
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Occasionally, Canadian Rental Service will mail information on behalf of industry-related groups whose products and services we believe may be of interest to you. If you prefer not to receive this information, please contact our circulation department in any of the four ways listed above.
Occasionally, Canadian Rental Service will mail information on behalf of industry-related groups whose products and services we believe may be of interest to you. If you prefer not to receive this information, please contact our circulation department in any of the four ways listed above.
Serving the Canadian rental industry for 44 years.
All rights reserved. Editorial material is copyrighted. Permission to reprint may be granted on request.
Serving the Canadian rental industry for 44 years.
www.canadianrentalservice.com
www.canadianrentalservice.com
22
LOADING PROFITS
Landscapers need track loaders with specific characteristics.
Here are some top new products sure to appeal to your landscaping contractors in spring 2022. 10
TELESCAPING
Telehandlers can do more for landscapers than just lift pallets.
26
LANDSCAPING SHOWCASE
20
OUR ISSUES
Don’t let yourself or your employees suffer mental health issues in silence. by Mike Wood
21 EVENTOLOGY
There are three Cs to great customer service. by Michel Nicol
25
WHAT WENT HONG
Here’s the information you need to have posted up to meet OH&S requirements. by James Hong
Let us help
Our partnerships give us reach into markets you want.
by Patrick Flannery
You’ve probably wondered how a guy like me fills his days. Heck, all the articles are written by other people. How long can it take to bang out one of these messages, attach some photos to the articles and send everything to the printer? Well, you might be right if this were the only B2B channel I managed. But the fact is I have four. And that’s only a small part of the entire Annex Business Media stable of trade magazines, which encompasses 65 titles making us Canada’s largest independent trade publisher.
This information might be of interest to you if you are looking for ways to reach out to new prospective customers or stay in front of your existing customer base, especially if you’re looking for exposure to a particular industry. Communications of all kinds are more effective when they are aimed at a specific group, with the message tailored for that group. And trade magazines, their websites and social channels are where the specific groups are.
Trade magazines and their websites and social channels are where the specific groups are.
Here’s an example. One of the other magazines I edit is Glass Canada . It is for the architectural glazing industry – the people who put the glass on skyscrapers and other commercial buildings. As you might suspect, they need all manner of aerial equipment. But some of them might not know that a few major lift manufacturers offer glazing packages for their lift buckets and platforms, complete with special racks and suction devices designed to hold glass. If you had one of these in your fleet and put an ad in Glass Canada telling glazing contractors you had it... hmmmm. Even better, you’d probably be the only game in town.
Another magazine I edit is called Canadian Contractor . It goes out to over 20,000 home renovation and custom homebuilding contractors across the country, four times per year. With an engaged audience for its website and social channels. I know you have something for those folks. Probably lots of somethings.
Moving beyond my particular group, there’s a channel for the heavy construction and infrastructure sector called On Site . And another for asphalt and road construction called Rock to Road . Got anything for factories, warehouses and other industrial businesses? Check out Canadian Manufacturing or Plant Agriculture? Top Crop , Potatoes in Canada , Manure Manager (insert joke here), Grow Opportunity , Greenhouse Canada , Fruit and Vegetable and Canadian Poultry . Maybe you are in an area with a lot of trees – take a look at Pulp and Paper Canada , Canadian Forest Industries and Canadian Biomass . The good readers of Drainage Contractor and Ground Water Canada might be interested to hear about your pump offerings. The full list is online at annexbusinessmedia.com.
These are all national magazines and you probably don’t need reach beyond your local market. No problem. We have the technology to target email advertising and magazine inserts just to the readers in your chosen area. Another option is to have us create a campaign package that hits a number of markets of interest to you.
If any of this intrigues you, I encourage you to reach out to me or our group publisher, Danielle Labrie, and have us direct you to the right salesperson. We work hard to tell your stories and keep you informed day in and day out. It would be fun to help you grow your business, too. CRS
INDUSTRY NEWS
CANLIFT ADDS XCMG EARTHMOVING
CanLift Equipment, known as an aerial equipment and material handling company, has expanded its product line through a partnership with construction manufacturing company Xuzhou Construction Machinery Group to have the exclusive rights to sales in Ontario for all XCMG earthmoving equipment.
“This partnership opens doors to new relationships within the construction machinery industry,” said Geoff Grant, vice-president of sales. “CanLift is dedicated to building connections with our clients and ensuring the experience is unmatched by providing the best quality products and services. The XCMG partnership will help us take our customer experience to the next level.”
CanLift is a Canadian company that has been family owned and operated since 2009 and is one of Ontario’s biggest independently owned lift equipment rental and sales companies. Located in Burlington and London, Ont., CanLift continues to grow with plans to expand to northern and eastern Ontario. Through this partnership, it will have unlimited access to all XCMG earthmoving machinery, giving customers the opportunity to purchase equipment immediately.
XCMG is one of the world’s top construction machinery companies known for its exceptional quality and diverse product line. This partnership expands into a whole new category of equipment available at CanLift. The earthmoving XCMG equipment available includes backhoes, compactors, excavators, graders, skid steers, wheel loaders and bulldozers. According to XCMG, it has not been affected by supply chain issues that others are facing in North America, making delivery windows much shorter than some other OEMs are experiencing.
“Being the exclusive dealership for one of the top three construction manufacturing companies in the world makes the CanLift team very proud.” said Johnny Dragicevic, managing partner. “We are thrilled to be able to offer this level of machinery to our customers.”
XCMG was ranked third place in the world for top construction equipment manufacturers by KHL Group’s Yellow Table 2021. This aligns with CanLift’s mission to always provide the best quality equipment to all of their customers, while supporting them with the competitive pricing and warranty.
POINT OF RENTAL SETS UP SHOP IN CANADA
Point of Rental is taking its relationship with its Canadian users to the next level. The company is establishing an official on-the-ground presence in Canada. Ben Sinclair, who joined Point of Rental in 2019 after more than a decade of experience working at his family’s rental store in Australia, moved to Canada on Jan. 10. He’s since been joined by a new solutions engineer, Irfan Ahmed, who started with the company on Feb. 7. After a couple of years of pandemicrelated travel issues between the U.S. and Canada, the company decided it needed to establish a Canadian centre of operations to focus on its considerable Canadian user base. As the Toronto-based unit grows, the team hopes to deepen Point of Rental’s relationship with the country’s rental industry as a whole.
“Our goal over the next six months is to go out and see customers, see how their business is going and how they’re using Point of Rental,” Sinclair said. “As we build the team and we bring more people on, we’ll have people they speak to on a regular basis, directly.”
Ahmed is joining the rental industry for the first time, although he has a background in both civil engineering and software. He is also fluent in both English and French, allowing him to work with users throughout Canada. The team will be attending Quebexpo in March 2022, and as industry events open back up and restrictions ease, they’re looking forward to meeting the people that drive the Canadian rental industry forward. Point of Rental is also a Gold Sponsor of the Canadian Rental Mart, coming Sept. 27-28 to Mississauga, Ont.
Irfan Ahmed rides into town as part of Point of Rental’s new Canada team.
COMING EVENTS
March 31 - April 1
National Heavy Equipment Show MIssissauga, Ont. nhes.ca
March 29 - 31
World of Asphalt Nashville, Tenn. worldofasphalt.com
April 13 -14
Atlantic Heavy Equipment Show Moncton, N.B. ahes.ca
April 29 - 30
Expos Grands Travaux Saint-Hyacinthe, Que. expograndstravaux.ca
June 21 - 23
Canada’s Farm Show Regina, Sask. canadasfarmshow.com
Sept. 27-28
Canadian Rental Mart Mississauga, Ont. canadianrentalmart.com
Sept. 28
IPAF Innovate Chicago, Ill. ipaf.org 2023
Jan. 10-12
AED Summit Chicago, Ill. aednet.org
Feb. 12-15
The ARA Show Orlando, Fla. ararental.org
March 14 - 18
Conexpo-ConAgg Las Vegas, Nev. conexpoconagg.com
PEOPLE ON THE MOVE AT THOMPSON
Thompson Pump announces the retirement of John Farrell, Thompson Pump and Manufacturing Company’s vicepresident of sales and marketing. With Farrell’s retirement comes the promotions of Bobby Zitzka to vice-president of sales and marketing and of Pat Broderick to national sales manager. Farrell, a well-respected industry veteran, recently announced his retirement after 38 years at Thompson Pump.
“John is and always will be a friend to coworkers, customers and competitors across the globe, and to us. We wouldn’t be where we are today without him and we are forever grateful,” said Chris Thompson, president. “I know the team is in very capable hands with Bobby and we are looking forward to seeing just how far he can take us.”
Zitzka began his career at Thompson Pump in 2002 as the branch manager for the company’s owned rental branch in Orlando, Fla. After much success at the branch, including being named 2007 Branch Manager of the Year, Zitzka was promoted to national sales manager in 2013.
“The years I spent working with John were the most formative and gave me a solid foundation to help Thompson Pump build towards the future,” said Zitzka. “As the company continues to grow, I’m excited to help with several initiatives to take Thompson Pump to the next level as an industry leader, just like John always did.”
Pat Broderick has been with the company for almost 20 years. He was hired as a sales and rental territory manager in the midwest and helped expand Thompson Pump’s reach beyond the east coast and Gulf areas by starting the company’s owned Kansas City branch in his barn. With Broderick’s experience in the pump industry, he was able to grow the branch to a proper rental facility serving a large portion of the midwest. In 2005, he was promoted to regional manager for the entire midwest and west coast regions.
“For nearly 20 years, I’ve been a part of helping Thompson Pump grow and expand and I’m excited for the opportunity to further that growth,” said Broderick. “I am grateful to John for showing me the way that will help me build Thompson Pumps partnership network for years to come.”
Yardz has formed a strategic partnership with EquipmentWatch, a trusted source for heavy equipment data and intelligence. Yardz provides a comprehensive tech platform for contractors to see all of their rented (and owned) equipment in one place. The tool allows contractors and construction companies to effectively manage all this equipment and ensure that it is allocated effectively and cost-efficiently to the places it’s needed most, as well as saving money on duplicate and overdue rentals. This new partnership will help to enhance the overall structure and functionality of the Yardz tool. By importing huge volumes of heavy-equipment data through the EquipmentWatch API, Yardz can now enable its users to view detailed information about and gain specifications for thousands of pieces of heavy equipment. In doing so, Yardz will greatly facilitate the user’s process of determining which items will be the proper size, weight, or horsepower to handle each project. Ultimately, Yardz customers – contractors, construction companies, and utilities – will now be able to utilize the myriad categories of data to help them optimize their equipment management decisions.
John Farrell Bobby Zitzka Pat Broderick
INDUSTRY NEWS
ARA TO HAND OUT $128,500 IN SCHOLARSHIPS
Each year, the American Rental Association Foundation awards numerous scholarships in effort to attract talent to the equipment and event rental industry. For the 2022-2023 academic year, $128,500US will be available to students seeking higher education through trade schools, universities, and community colleges. In total, 66 individual scholarships are available with amounts ranging from $750 to $5,000. Students may apply for multiple awards if eligibility requirements are met. Applicants must be associated with the equipment and event rental industry either as a student member of ARA or with an equipment and event rental operation or a manufacturer/supplier of rental equipment and be pursuing a career that supports the industry. The equipment and event rental industry operation does not need to be an ARA member but must qualify for membership with the association. New for this program year, five $2,000 scholarships are available to ARA student members. This new membership category is open to individuals enrolled in high school or a post-secondary institution. Student membership, which is free of charge to those who qualify, opens a variety of opportunities to learn about the industry and network with other members.
“Scholarships are a powerful tool for recruiting and retaining top talent to ensure continued success and future growth of the equipment and event rental industry. The ARA Foundation is proud to offer scholarships for continuing education with a record $128,500 available this year,” says Marcy Wright, ARA Foundation executive director.
Since the ARA Foundation began the scholarship program, more than $1 million has been granted to students across North America.
COURSES ON OPIOID ABUSE OFFERED
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety is offering online courses for $20 educating employers and workers about use and abuse of opioid painkillers in the workplace. CCOHS says opioid use in the workplace can impact everyone’s right to a safe and healthy environment. Also,provincial human rights laws may require employers to accommodate and support employees with addiction issues. There are two courses on offer.
“Opioids: What Employers Need to Know” introduces employers to the impacts of opioid use in the workplace. Employers and supervisors will learn about their specific duties, the importance of addressing substance use through a policy, and the steps they should take when possible impairment is observed. The course will also share how to assess and respond to concerns without judgement, stigmatizing language or behaviours. Topics to be covered include implementing a successful impairment program, responding to observed behaviour; being supportive; first aid responses; and recovery and accommodations. Completing the course will enable employers to recognize the importance of addressing impairment or possible substance use; understand the elements of a policy to address impairment in the workplace, and the roles of each party; assess and respond to concerns without judgment, stigmatizing language, or behaviours; and describe how naloxone is used in the event of an opioid poisoning.
“Opioids: What Workers Need to Know” introduces employees to the impacts of opioid use in the workplace. The course will help workers learn about these impacts and steps to follow to understand opioid use, reduce stigma, and provide appropriate support in the workplace. Topics include why opioid use is a workplace issue; understanding opioids and stigma; knowing your employer’s policy and procedures; signs of opioid poisoning; and reporting and responding to concerns. Successful completion enables workers to recognize opioids and their intended uses; identify why opioid use in the workplace can be an issue; avoid using stigmatizing language or behaviours; respond to concerns of impairment without stigma; and identify why naloxone is used when providing first aid
Both courses are available on the CCOHS website in English and French. The average time to complete these courses is approximately 45 minutes.
RENTAL MART DATE SHIFTED TO SEPTEMBER
Organizers of the Canadian Rental Mart, Canada’s largest show for the equipment and event rental industry, have moved the show date to Sept. 27 and 28, 2022, to ensure the health and safety of attendees and exhibitors in light of the ongoing Omicron outbreak in Ontario. The show was scheduled to go forward as a live event on March 8 and 9. “We’re obviously disappointed to have to change the date, but we really feel this will enable us to put on a bigger, better show with a more enjoyable experience for all involved,” said Rob Elias, Canadian Rental Service brand sales manager.
The September edition of the Rental Mart will occur at the same venue: the International Centre in Mississauga, Ont. The lineup of special attractions and educational opportunities will be unchanged, including a keynote address from the Hon. Tony Clement, former federal industry minister; the Women In Rental panel featuring accomplished women from across the country; and the Western Global Beer Cube...say no more. Those who registered for the March 8 and 9 dates will have their registrations automatically transferred to the new dates with no need to re-register.
COVID restrictions are scheduled to ease across Ontario throughout March, with the provincial government predicting lifting all measures by March 31.
A GOLDEN ERA
Cooper Equipment Rentals is a homegrown Canadian success story.
From humble beginnings 50 years ago in a small shed in Markham, Ont., Cooper Equipment Rentals now boasts over 55 branches across Canada.
by ANDREW SNOOK
The story for this company started with a trained draftsman named Gordon Cooper, who started his construction career working on a project at the Malton Airport, now known as Toronto Pearson International Airport. Gordon was working for a large construction company where he got his first understanding of the challenges that contractors faced on jobsites every day. This early understanding of the inner working of a construction jobsite led to a successful career as a salesman supplying materials and equipment to projects all over Ontario. Eventually Gord found his way into the rental industry working for a large corporate equipment supplier. While Gord loved being able to help solve customers problems on site he found himself constantly at odds with his employers corporate bureaucracy and its inability to put the customers needs first.
“My dad worked in that environment and struggled with the corporate bureaucracy where it felt like you were working for the corporation and not the customer,” recalls Darryl Cooper, Gordon’s son and current President and COO of Cooper Equipment Rentals. “My dad was a born salesman and he really just wanted to serve customers and give them the best equipment rental service he could. After fighting his corporate superior for years, he ended up starting G. Cooper Equipment Rentals on a very small budget – a pickup truck and a card table in a borrowed facility in 1972.”
Initially the business revenue was made up of about 50% rental revenue and 50% from sales of equipment lines that Cooper Equipment was the sole distributor for.
“He imported equipment from France like Sovemat rollers and Maco Meudon compressors and put some in our rental fleet and would sell the others,” Darryl says.
Gordon Cooper started G. Cooper Equipment
Rentals alongside a business partner, and over the next 31 years under Gordon’s leadership, the company slowly expanded.
In 1973, the company moved into its own building with two acres of yard space on the same street, and four years later the two men opened up a second branch in Mississauga. Gordon Cooper bought out his partner in 1979 and became sole owner of G. Cooper Equipment. The buyout of his partner constrained capital, so there really wasn’t a tremendous amount of growth within the company for some time,” Darryl explains. “That really shaped my Dad’s philosophy around debt and leverage in the late 80’s and early 90’s. He had interest rates in the 18- to 20-per-cent range, so all those things shaped the thinking of the business back then. People don’t remember interest rates like that these days. In a business where capital is king, it was a real difficult time for the business.”
Despite challenging times, Gordon did expand the company into Georgetown, Ont. (1982) and Rexdale, Ont. (1999). In 2003, Gordon retired from his position as president and passed the torch to his son, Darryl.
“I got started as a 12-year-old kid working in the yard. One of the first jobs I had was taking the waste oil from the machines and using it to keep the dust down… those were different times,” Darryl recalls, adding that he spent his summers through high school continuing to work in the yard. “At the end of high school I didn’t know what I wanted to do, so I started working for a year or two for Cooper Equipment in different operations roles, and finally decided I wanted to pursue a business degree and went back to college and did that. Afterwards, I came back to Cooper Equipment but started to get more into a sales and customer service role, and started to build some industry connections. That was my
entry into the business.”
In 2003, along with two minority shareholders Darryl bought out his father who had decided to retire. From 2003 to 2009, Darryl and his partners grew the business to roughly triple in size.
“We reached an inflection point where I really felt like I wanted to grow the business further, but wasn’t sure which way to take the business from there,” Darryl says.
This is when Darryl partnered with Doug Dougherty, CEO of Cooper Equipment Rentals, and the company began an aggressive expansion across the country.
Dougherty was well-versed in the equipment rental business, growing up in the family business under Ray-Gordon Equipment. His father was one of the principles of the business and became 100 per cent owner of the business. Dougherty ended up taking over the family business and eventually selling it to United Rentals in 1998 After a successful career working in various senior level positions at United Doug felt it was time to come back to Toronto where he could be closer to family and friends.
“ In 2009 I was back in Toronto and looking to get back into the industry. I attended an industry tradeshow where Darryl and I crossed paths. We had known each other as competitors and had always admired each other’s operations. Over numerous discussions we realized that we shared similar values and complimentary
skills and so in early 2010 we became equal partners in Cooper Equipment”” Dougherty recalls.
Darryl and Dougherty underwent an aggressive expansion of the business over the next decade.
“We focused on small and medium-sized contractors, primarily for those who worked in the dirt and on heavy civil projects like roads, sewers, bridges and other infrastructure projects,” Dougherty says. “As we grew we found it increasingly difficult to finance our growth and so that’s when we started a process to find a strategic financial partner.”
In 2013, the company found its financial partner in SeaFort Capital, which gave Cooper Equipment Rentals access to the kind of capital they needed to sustain long-term growth. That year, the company opened its fourth location in York Region and purchased City Rentals located in Scarborough, Ont. One year later, Cooper Equipment Rentals purchased Albion Rental and expanded into Bolton, Ont.
In 2015, Cooper Equipment Rentals made a major acquisition purchasing SMS Rents, which expanded its number of branches in Ontario to 22 and began expansion into the Quebec market.
“That really transformed the business. SMS was about double our size and twice the number of people we had at the time,” Dougherty says. “That gave us that critical mass to continue our growth. Since then, we’ve continued to grow across Canada.”
The company launched its Cooper Trench Safety division in 2017 and continued to expand its national footprint that year, acquiring 4-Way Equipment Rentals to expand its operations into Western Canada, and then purchasing Alberta Lift and Equipment Rentals to expand into Calgary and Lethbridge, Alta. If that wasn’t enough action for one year, the company also opened an additional rental location in West Edmonton to grow to four locations across Alberta.
In 2018, the company acquired Modern Industrial Rentals allowing for expansion into Medicine Hat, Alta. and a second branch in Calgary.
The following year, Cooper Equipment Rentals launched its Pump Solutions division before acquiring two more companies – Star Rentals in the Metro Vancouver Area with locations in White Rock, Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford and Burnaby, B.C.; and Prime Rentals which added two more branches in Alberta (Lethbridge and Taber).
The company expanded into Atlantic Canada in 2020, acquiring two Herc Rentals Atlantic branches located in Saint John, N.B. and Dartmouth, N.S.
This past year Cooper Equipment Rentals brought two more companies into its fold, acquiring B.C.-based EZE Rent-It Centre and its three branches located in Chilliwack, Abbotsford and Aldergrove; and Stayner Rental Limited to expand further into Southern Ontario. A Work
Zone Safety Division supplying perimeter fencing and slab edge protection was also started up.
“We’re continuing to look for opportunities to increase our footprint and expand our specialty operations,” Dougherty says.
CHANGING TIMES
When asked about what the biggest challenges have been over the past 50 years, Darryl says the consolidation of the industry has been a big one.
“I think in the long-run it’s worked out in our favour. It forced us to change and adapt. I think it’s raised the game of the entire industry. As the industry moved primarily from a mom-and-pop industry to a professionally managed business model,” he says.
Dougherty says things have changed greatly in the industry when it comes to how companies track various metrics in their businesses.
“I think about where we were in 2010, our metrics were annual financial statements,” he says. “Things have gotten a lot more sophisticated. We track a whole bunch of metrics to manage the business today. You have to be a lot more efficient in managing your assets and financing your business. Since 2010, to get growth like we’ve had, that’s been a challenge – finance, marketing, all these things require a lot of attention and deliberate strategy and forethought.”
Dougherty says that to be able to compete against the large multi-national
companies you have to be able to set your company apart from the competition.
“You have to take great lengths to differentiate yourself in the market. We emphasize ‘The Cooper Difference,’” he says.
The Cooper Difference is an internal value system the company created in 2013 for all of its employees.
“In order to compete, you have to be able to articulate your values to the market. You can only do that if all your people buy in,” Dougherty says.
Historic projects
Even when the company was a small player, Cooper Equipment Rentals was involved in some of the most high-profile projects in the GTA including the Distillery District, Toronto Pearson International Airport, the Royal Ontario Museum and many other major landmarks.
“One of my earliest memories, I would have been nine or ten years old at the time, and I was driving with my dad in a pickup truck to deliver a generator to the CN Tower project, which was just a big hole in the ground at the time,” Darryl recalls. “I remember riding in the pickup truck and thinking, ‘I’m driving into this hole surrounded by every type of equipment imaginable and thinking WOW this is amazing… probably one of my first tastes of the business.”
CURRENT GOALS
One of the company’s major goals is to be Able to serve our customers in every
major population centre across Canada.
“Currently we are the only fully Canadian owned and operated construction rental company operating from the Pacific to the Atlantic” Darryl says. “There’s still some gaps in our footprint where we think we can be successful. Expansion could be in the form of cold starts or acquisitions.”
Darryl also sees plenty of opportunities to expand the company’s specialty divisions like Trench Safety, Climate Control, Pump & Power and Work Zone Safety.
“I think there’s lots of room to expand those as well,” he says.
Safety is another key area of focus for the company.
“We recently received COR Certification in B.C. and Alberta. We’re currently working on Ontario and expect to have it before the end of this year,” Darryl says. “Safety is an important goal. I want to make sure our employees go home safe every day. We have made this such a priority that the health and safety manager reports directly to me.
Another key initiative for the company has been a push towards stronger diversity and inclusion, making sure the company reflects the communities it serves.
The company is currently working with a diversity and inclusion advisor in this area.
“We’ll be able to drive these action plans home in the next three to five years,” Dougherty says.
Darryl adds that the industry needs to do a better job promoting itself as a viable career option to attract and retain talent.
“The rental industry has not done a great job of promoting rental as a career,” he says. “Little kids aren’t growing up thinking I want to be in the rental industry, and we need to change that narrative. We need to get that message out early and louder. Most people enter this industry almost by accident, through a friend or a referral. Not too many people start out with a career in the rental industry in mind.”
GIVING BACK
Doug and Darryl are both passionate about giving back to the communities they serve. The company supports a variety of local initiatives brought forth by branch managers across the country.
Cooper’s offering now includes a full fleet of just about everything for the light construction and general tool markets, as well as specialty trench safety, work zone safety and pump divisions. There’s also used equipment sales.
It also regularly supports the George Hull Centre for Children and Families in Etobicoke, Movember, and Steps for Life.
“We feel Steps for Life and the George Hull Center are really important organizations to support –charities that don’t get the media support or have the big budget support that some of the other ones have. We feel like we can make a big difference to them,” Darryl says.
The company also offers support to the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC). This year Cooper has partnered with CAWIC to provide six women across Canada with $1,000 bursaries to provide them with further education or on the job training.
Golden celebrations
In celebration of 50 years in the business, Cooper Equipment Rentals selected a variety of equipment and had them all painted gold. The equipment is being moved around to the company’s various branches across Canada to raise money for noble causes.
“We’re moving this equipment into each of our regions across Canada and sharing 50 per cent of the rental dollars raised from renting the machines with the Steps for Life charity and Movember,” Darryl says.
On June 15, to recognize 50 years in business, there will be 50 food trucks set up in 50 rental branches across Canada.
“Every branch will have a food truck serving up lunches at open houses across the country. We also have monthly competitions where we’re giving away a fantastic prize to our followers on social media. Every month it’s a different selection of prizes. It culminates in September with four airline tickets to anywhere in Canada – the same month the company was founded in 1972,” Darryl says. “Also if people post pictures of our gold equipment mentioning #spotcoopergold and tag us, they’ll also win prizes. There’s lots of opportunities to win cool Cooper swag.”
To follow Cooper Equipment Rentals on Instagram, visit @cooperequipmentrentals.
Cooper’s offering now includes a full fleet of just about everything for the light construction and general tool markets, as well as specialty trench safety, work zone safety and pump divisions. There’s also used equipment sales.
LANDSCAPING SOLUTIONS FROM KUBOTA CANADA
Landscaping applications have just gotten easier thanks to Kubota Canada’s recent release of a host of new products to help contractors get the job done quicker and with greater efficiency.
U10-5
Kubota’s new U10-5 Ultra-Compact Excavator comes with all the features a contractor needs to work comfortably and get the job done in those hard-to-reach worksites.
The U10-5 is a one-tonne, zero tail swing excavator built with variable tracks so it is ideal for working in tight spaces.
“Zero tail swing is a huge advantage for not hitting things behind you,” says Jonathan Gardner, product manager for construction equipment at Kubota Canada. “Because the U10-5 has variable tracks that go in and out, you can bring the tracks in to bring it through a gate or for indoors demolition. Then when you get into those tighter spaces you expand the tracks to get your stability.”
The hydraulically adjustable track gauge is controlled through single-lever operation and can reduce or expand the rubber tracks in a matter of seconds. The U10-5 can be reduced to 2’ 6” to fit through most doorways or expanded to 3’ 3” for increased stability.
The controls for the excavator are designed with a side lever layout for improved operator working posture, comfort and excellent forward visibility.
They also offer operators an additional safety component.
“When the levels are up, nothing can be operated so there is no accidental movement when nobody is on the excavator. And if for some reason they’re down when the machine is off, you can’t start it up,” Gardner says.
To further enhance visibility on job sites, the U10-5 is built with a new LED boom work light for working at night or in poorly lit indoor areas.
Safety and convenience are also improved with the unit’s foldable rollover protective structure (ROPS). The foldable ROPS allows for the excavator to travel
under doorways and be transported to jobsites easier.
The U10-5 features an engine gross horsepower of 10.3 hp, a bucket breakout force of 2,300 lb. and an operating weight of 2,646 lb.
FINE GRADING WITH TRIMBLE EARTHWORKS GO!
Fine grading just got easier for landscapers with the addition of Trimble Earthworks GO! to Kubota’s series of box blades.
This plug-and-play option is a simple option for fine grading whether a contractor is prepping for some pads for a shed, driveways, a walking path, or even tennis courts.
“Earthworks GO! sets how deep you want to go, what slope you want, and it does everything for the box blade. All you have to do is drive,” Gardner says.
The 2D grade control system’s biggest advantages are that it offers novice operators the ability to accurately grade without significant training time in a machine, while improving efficiencies for experienced operators.
“It takes the novice operator and makes them an expert,” Gardner says. “If you’re doing it manually, you might take away too much material and then you have to pay to bring material back; or you’re spending time walking around with a stick to make sure you’re on grade. It’s definitely an efficiency upgrade.”
With skilled operators in short supply, economical options like Trimble Earthworks GO! are more important than ever.
“The biggest thing is as long as someone can program it, it takes the novice operator and makes them an expert. With expert operators retiring and becoming harder to find, this is important,” Gardner says.
He adds that finding skilled labour has become even more complicated since the start of COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.
“The tide has changed since COVID, because there’s less people allowed on a job site,” Gardner says. “It’s also harder to hire someone that wants to go and measure grade, and harder to find people willing to do manual labour than ever before.”
The Earthworks GO! technology is compatible with any Kubota compact track loader or skid steer loader. The 2D grade control system is iOS and Android compatible, allowing operators to use their smart device as the primary machine interface. Other features include:
• GO! Box technology enables full sensing technology with no mounting hardware required;
• System is fully integrated with the Kubota controls;
• Simple harnessing solutions ensure a low-profile, easy to maintain solution;
• 2D automatic ready;
• Easy setup with integrated installation and calibration tutorials;
• Proven laser-guided technology enables high precision grading; and
• Save machine profiles to enable onetime setup.
Kubota’s BB30 Box Blades are offered in a variety of sizes including 72-inch, 84-inch and 96-inch working widths. The units feature reversible side cutters manufactured from wear-resistant AR400 steel that are replaceable and reversible.
The four-way box blades are designed, developed and produced by Kubota. They are available for a variety of compact track loaders and skid steer models including the SSV65, SSV75, SVL65-2, SVL75-2, and SVL97-2.
“With the box blade and Trimble Earthworks GO! you can do depth only, depth plus single scope or depth plus dual slope. You can do everything you need to do for fine grading,” Gardner says.
RTVS
Kubota’s RTV utility vehicles are a rugged and reliable option for tackling transport on challenging job sites for residential, construction, commercial and agricultural applications. The units are offered in full size and compact/mid-size models with horsepowers of 17.4 hp (RTV520 series), 21.6 to 24.8 hp (RTV-X series) or 48 hp (RTV-XG).
The RTV520 series offers a 54.7” wide stance for working in tighter pathways with safer cargo and trailer hauling capabilities
thanks to their hydrostatic drive systems.
The RTV-X series utility vehicles are equipped with 21.6 to 24.8 hp Kubota diesel engines and require limited wear parts. This versatile machine can operate a wide variety of attachments including blades, snowblowers, sprayers, spreaders and sweepers.
Kubota RTVs also feature hydraulic bed lifts and a strong high-rigidity frame that isolates occupants from noise and vibrations. The frame’s durability allows it to take years of punishment from heavy loads and rough terrain. They also offer a comfortable drive with their enhanced speed-sensitive electronic power steering.
“On construction sites and other job sites, having a larger RTV with up to four seats is great for moving people around, and it can handle a bit of a payload,” Gardner says.
For more information on the latest offerings from Kubota Canada, visit www.kubota.ca
First, a contractor who receives palletized materials at his or her shop can benefit from this machine’s reach and lift capacity. For example, when loading items off or onto a semitrailer with a 3013, there’s no need for a pallet jack to move materials around on the trailer. This machine’s reach allows you to cut out the extra labour and equipment.
Likewise, moving large items like boulders around at your facility is an easy task for an ultra-compact telehandler like the 3013. It can easily reach up and into a dump truck, for example, whereas a skid steer would only have the ability to set a boulder or large load onto the edge of the truck bed. Then you’d have to use the equipment to push it further into the vehicle, scratching up the bed.
Transporting bulk materials like mulch from your storage area into a dump truck is a breeze with ultra-compact telehandlers.
“Materials are expensive, you don’t want to waste them,” Boehme says. “With 13 feet of reach on our 3013 model, you can see what you’re
dumping and where you’re dumping it.”
Adding to the telehandler’s versatility is the fact that it has a universal skid steer coupler. “The machine you’ve rented or purchased can be equipped with the attachments you already own,” he says. “There’s no need to go out and get another bucket.”
ON THE JOB
Because ultra-compact telehandlers are lightweight, getting it to the job site is an easy task. Landscapers can transport it to and from the rental facility or the shop with a standard truck and trailer, adding to the convenience of running this size of telehandler.
Handling pallets is a familiar telehandler application. But the ability to use all your skid steer attachments means customers get an added level of versatility.
Once you are working on the job site, you can use an ultra-compact telehandler to increase productivity and reduce labour, similar to how you would use a skid steer or track loader.
“Say you want to move saplings. You can put five of those in the bucket and move them all at one time,” Boehme says. He adds that this size of machine also shines in tight urban environments where you may only have access to one
side of the truck. “You’re able to lift high enough or extend far enough from one side into the truck to load and unload in congested downtown areas with less traffic disruption,” he says.
And an ultra-compact machine’s low weight and small footprint also means this size of telehandler won’t tear up property. For example, the 3013 has alltime four-wheel drive with two-wheel rear-pivot power steering, designed for
easily getting in and out of tight spaces like a small backyard area.
“Compare that with a skid steer’s counter-rotating steering, and you’re going to have much less ground disturbance with the 3013,” Boehme says. He notes that you can take it a step further and get the optional turf tires to ensure ground disturbance is as minimal as possible
Finally, ultra-compact telehandlers are great machines for cleanup at the end of the job. Hook up a bucket attachment and circle the property. While one operator drives, another crew member can toss in any trash and debris that needs to be hauled away from the site. These machines much faster than having team members clean up by hand or with wheelbarrows, which ultimately improves profitability.
Boehme concludes, “When you choose an ultra-compact telehandler, you’ll experience more reach, greater lift height and enhanced terrainability versus a skid steer — all from a machine that can be moved with a standard pickup truck and trailer.”
CRS
This looks better than hand-bombing all those saplings to where they need to go. The ability to change attachments just as with a regular skid steer makes one compact telehandler a solution for mutliple landscaping jobs.
OUR ISSUES
Don’t suffer in silence
by Mike Wood
COVID-19 has created significant stress for business owners.
After about two years, we continue to feel the effects of the global pandemic. Businesses in our city (Ottawa) continue to suffer the impacts of COVID-19. While many hoped 2022 would bring change, we continue to experience a global labour shortage alongside unprecedented spread of the virus.
Small businesses have voluntarily locked themselves down for the first time during this crisis. Some people are reluctant to take on the risk of being considered spreaders, while COVID-19 has infected their staff, and they simply do not have enough people to operate.
The federal government came forward with much-needed support when capacity restrictions were announced. However, the problem is there is not enough support for mental health by the federal or provincial governments.
Mental health challenges continue to be the elephant in the room during the pandemic that many do not want to discuss. As the pandemic continues, it needs to be addressed and openly talked about. Far too many continue to suffer in silence.
Before I discuss the ongoing pressures, I feel I should share these invaluable contacts. Crisis Services Canada is available on their toll-free number 1-833-456-4566 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also connect with them by texting 45645 from 4 p.m. to midnight EST, or online at crisisservicescanada.ca.
The uncertainty small business owners face has created tremendous pressure on all of us. Many wondered how much inventory should be purchased as stay-at-home orders have come quickly and abruptly. This is in addition to a global supply chain problem, where some shelves are bare through no fault of our own.
The idea of having to lay off staff again when many struggled to find the appropriate number of staff to remain operational takes its toll on
the mental health of small business owners. Some businesses that saw some staff return know this will be their last time, as they will surely seek more secure employment.
Many people find the idea of having to negotiate again with creditors, banks and landlords overwhelming. With personal guarantees on bank loans and many commercial leases, people again know their homes and assets are on the line. The weight of this alone on people’s mental health and thought processes can have a spiral effect.
According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, “Seven in 10 small business owners have taken on debt due to COVID-19, with the average now reaching almost $170,000 per business.” They go on to say that “small businesses in Canada now owe a collective $135 billion.”
The residents of Ottawa have supported small businesses since the beginning of the pandemic. Thanks to their efforts, we did not see the number of bankruptcies predicted over the past year and a half. For that, we are forever grateful.
The one thing we ask is that customers continue to support and be kind when coming in. Many of our staff are new to the company. Many continue to learn their positions. Our service may not be as fast as it used to be, but we are doing our best to improve it. It is not just the business owners who are struggling with their mental health, but also the staff who are tired and overworked.
Kindness, understanding and the support of your family, friends and neighbours will help us through what will hopefully be the last of the pandemic in this country. CRS
Mike Wood was a partner in Ottawa Special Events from 2009 to 2021. Today, he is a small business advocate taking the concerns of the rental industry to federal and provincial governments.
by Michelle Nicol, CERP
The three Cs
As a consumer there are key characteristics I look for when working with a company. I need to feel a genuine connection with the salesperson and get the impression they have an interest in helping me, rather than feeling like I’m an inconvenience and that I am not worth their time. They should have confidence and knowledge in their product and the ability to make sure I get the right products, rather than just looking to sell me everything including items I do not need. Lastly, they should be offering a consistent process so I feel they are reliable These criteria can be applied to the event industry and can either make a client stick with you or head back to Google to find the next supplier.
The three key components of customer service are connection, confidence and consistency. Breaking it down to these three key components gives us a specific direction and areas to focus our efforts on. Let’s dive in!
CONNECTION
I have found when working with clients on their events, fostering a connection has been key to creating a loyal customer. This all starts by listening to what they are looking for, asking the right questions and finding common ground. When a potential client calls, they are likely in the beginning stages of planning an important life event. With all the normal hustle and bustle of the event industry, it is easy to want to get through calls quickly to get to the next. It may be efficient to take 10 quick calls without forming a connection and quickly jotting down what they are asking for and nothing more. However, chances are you will never hear back from these people. Alternatively, you can dedicate double the time and effort to five calls and ensure you close those sales by listening, assisting and connecting. These are important conversations to them and while you may be juggling 20 clients at the same time, they deserve your
undivided attention and efforts. It is obvious when speaking to someone on the phone if they are rushing, distracted or uninterested in your conversation. Putting in that extra little bit of effort will help foster a relationship with them, earning their trust and business.
CONFIDENCE
Do you have the confidence as a salesperson to ask for the sale? This goes beyond simply taking down their details, emailing them the quote and never hearing back from them again. This involves following up with them and having a conversation, asking them if anything is holding them back or if they would like to lock in the order now. Sometimes, it’s a matter of one item being more expensive than what someone else is offering, and they are likely not comparing apples to apples, or may be not looking at the whole picture.
Having the confidence in your ability as an adviser, the products you are selling and the support your company offers, will come through and reassure the customer they are making the right decision by deciding to work with you.
CONSISTENCY
This goes beyond just getting back to someone when you said you would. This means consistently showing up as a support system for this client and their event. It is also having them know they can count on you. This may look like recommending items you think will help them host a successful event, following up with your clients after they have received their rentals or after their event has ended. How can you use your experience to possibly help them avoid missing something or overlooking an important component to their event? Clients always remember what you did for them to help them in a pinch, but even more so, what you did to help them avoid it altogether. By consistently showing up for your client, you will be sure to be the first call for their next event. CRS
by BUCK STORLIE, ASV Holdings product line manager
LOADING UP PROFITS
Choose the right compact loader for your landscaping customers.
Growing profits in the landscaping business comes down to two factors: increasing the number of jobs completed or decreasing operating costs. Ideally, most contractors seek to do both, a feat that requires keen attention to detail, a stellar reputation for high-quality work and a vision to take on some tough, niche applications.
Costly turf damage, inefficient machine utilization and poor productivity on the jobsite are significant barriers to increased profitability and can affect a contractor’s reputation. However, innovative compact track loader designs offer an opportunity to change these challenges into points of differentiation.
WINNING THE TURF WAR
Some compact track loaders are redefining expectations of damage to sensitive turf during a landscaping job. Certain innovative design features help landscapers not only save time and money on turf repairs but be more productive by worrying less about damaging lawns
while on the job. These loaders include features that reduce the risk of damage and lead to several benefits ranging from earlier access to a jobsite to reduced time and labour protecting or repairing turf. These designs often incorporate a higher number of undercarriage track wheels, spreading the unit’s weight more evenly to reduce ground pressure to unprecedented levels. In maximizing the amount of track surface area on the ground through wider tracks, these track loaders improve flotation on mud and minimize damage to lawns and other sensitive areas. Completely smooth turf tracks are also available that further reduce ground pressures and lower the risk of damage.
LEFT: Visibility is key, especially when using attachments in tight spaces. Choose a cab that allows operators to see where the bucket is without leaning out.
RIGHT: In landscaping, it’s all about the turf. Tracks that chew up the ground are no good. Pay attention to the ground force specification on the loaders you select for these applications.
One Iowa landscaper’s investment in a cutting-edge compact track loader reduced his time repairing turf damage by 50 percent compared to his alternative same-class loader. In some situations where the job required working on a muddy yard, the contractor found that although the yard wasn’t suitable to walk on yet, his low-ground-pressure track loader smoothly rolled out new sod without getting stuck.
A turf-conscious track loader also allows a contractor to take on new applications with sensitive turf, such as work on golf courses. Plus, a contractor who earns a reputation for causing minimal turf disturbance will likely enjoy a better reputation and more return customers.
PICKING UP THE PACE
There are only so many hours in the day and the equipment that helps contractors get the most work done will have the greatest positive effect on a business’s profitability. Innovative undercarriage designs on the latest generation of track loaders achieves ground speeds comparable to those of skid steers. They achieve this in part with advanced internal positive drive undercarriage designs that reduce friction and allow more power to transfer from the drive system to the tracks. Repeat trips, such as loading trucks or hauling material from one end of a jobsite to another, completed minutes or even seconds faster, can add up to a significant increase in efficiency over the course of a job.
VISIBILITY AND COMFORT
Those fast ground speeds only help if the machine’s suspension – and therefore the operator – can handle it. Even at slower speeds, compact track loaders with traditional, rigid-mounted undercarriage designs will feel the effect of every bump. Newer track loader designs reduce the impact of bumps on the operator and the attachment with suspension systems that are fully suspended and feature dual torsion axles. These axles allow the suspension to travel up and down when encountering bumps, offering a smoother ride for the operator and less loss of material from the bucket.
Visibility from the cab is an important factor in productivity as well as overall operator experience. Some compact track loader manufacturers have improved the visibility in their designs. Some newer models provide premium 360-degree visibility from the seat of the cab, resulting
Performance From Billy Goat
TECH TIPS
from all-clear sides and a frameless door with floor-to-ceiling glass area.
A better view of the attachment, and the operator’s surroundings in general, allows the operator to carry out tasks more quickly. There’s less need to lean for a better view of the attachment or to see around the door frame.
MACHINE UTILIZATION AND VERSATILITY IN SNOW
Innovative compact track loaders can handle more applications than ever before thanks to certain design features, a fact that pays dividends for landscaping contractors in the form of improved equipment utilization. Snow removal services, as a prime example, can account for up to 33 percent or more of a landscaping contractor’s total revenue, so it’s an enormous advantage if equipment can handle the elements in summer and winter. While historically many contractors have viewed skid steers as better choices for snow removal work, things are changing.
Well-designed CTLs can increase trac-
tion and flotation in applications yearround with no need to change tracks with the seasons. Some of these loaders feature tracks with a bar-style tread that maximizes ground contact, a more versatile option than investing in separate winter tracks with aggressive tread patterns. Machine undercarriages with a large number of ground contact points and long, wide tracks pair with a suspension system that allows the track to flex and maximize ground contact.
A balanced compact track loader with a light footprint can pile snow higher than previously possible with a CTL, improving overall efficiency. While many manufacturers simply convert a skid steer chassis to accept tracks, some track loaders are purpose-built for optimal balance and design. Skid-steer-converted track loaders often feature a balance of 30/70 percent, with the back end being the heaviest, whereas purpose-built designs are closer to 50/50.
Some purpose-built CTLs are designed to navigate deep snow and feature ground clearances as high as 15 inches, nearly double that of designs with ret-
rofitted undercarriages. In addition to being useful for navigating deep snow, this extra clearance gives machine operators more confidence handling tricky terrain, such as over logs, rocks or other debris. This brings applications like forestry, mulching and site clearing within the realm of possibility for a landscape contractor looking for ways to grow their business. This is especially true for owners of the largest of compact track loaders with powerful hydraulics that can handle demanding attachments.
ON THE MARGINS
Improving the profitability of a landscaping business can seem like a daunting undertaking. There are a lot of factors that come into play, and it’s sometimes hard to know what to prioritize. Innovative compact track loaders can increase profit margins on the jobs you already do, and potentially open up additional revenue from new applications. Reducing your costs into every job and improving your crew’s productivity –these are benefits any landscape business owner can get behind. CRS
by James Hong
WHAT WENT HONG
Post it notes
Occupational health and safety posting requirements for construction sites vary from province to province. However, there are federal requirements applicable to all provinces. The breakdown of federal and provincial requirements can be found on the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety website. Let’s go through some of the requirements that apply to all provinces.
Part II of the Canada Labour Code is available online at canada.ca under the health safety reports summary. Part II of the Canada Labour Code is specific to occupational health and safety, emphasizing the goal to reduce workplace injuries and accidents in federal jurisdiction. Furthermore, Part II of the Canada Labour Code describes the major responsibilities for occupational health and safety for both employers and employees subject to the code.
A statement of the employer’s general health and safety policy is often overlooked, and more often written incorrectly, without an updated stamp or signature. The policy must be signed with a new verified date stamp every three years.
Part II of the code also stipulates every employer that controls the activity of employees are responsible for all permanent and temporary buildings and structures to meet the prescribed standards. This includes installing guards, guard-rails, barricades and fences in accordance with required standards. The employer must investigate, record and report all accidents, harassment and violence, occupational illnesses and other hazardous occurrences known to the employer and make these reports available to employees.
The code also specifies that employers must keep health and safety records, provide first aid kits and first aid attendants, make available personal facilities, potable water and be responsible for the safety of mobile and vehicle safety. The telephone number of a health and safety contact for reporting unsafe worksite environment issues such as noise, air
quality and any other safety issues, is required to be posted in clear sight. The location of first aid stations and first aid rooms, a list of first aid attendants and contact details, information regarding transport procedures for injured employees and an up-to-date list of telephone numbers must be created for use in emergencies. This includes a map of the route to the closest hospital as well as all emergency, non-emergency and first responder numbers. The details of the workplace evacuation plan and procedures, along with the mapped evacuation points and the emergency assembly location should also be included.
It can’t be emphasized enough: the most important thing about the rights of employees is to exercise those rights. Employees’ rights are simple to remember. First is the right to know: to be informed of foreseeable hazards in the workplace and to be provided with the information, instruction, training and supervision necessary to protect health and safety.Next is the right to participate: ensuring methods of communication are appropriate for all employees, including employees with special needs. Finally, there’s the right to refuse dangerous work.
There is of course much more to this code, and it is worth a closer look by both employees and employers. Just a note on this matter: should any breach of these laws occur, a response of “I wasn’t aware” is not a reason health and safety authorieis will accept. At minimum, a jobsite can be shut down until an investigation is carried out costing the company money, time and reputation. Serious breaches have resulted in major fines, and in some cases lawsuits that have crippled companies and individuals from ever doing business again.
Be safe. Be well. CRS
James Hong is an OHS consultant and writer for the construction industry.
Help
LANDSCAPING SHOWCASE
UP AND OVER
jlg.com 8
JLG has expanded its SkyTrak telehandler line into the 3K Class with the 3013 model. The SkyTrak 3013 ultracompact telehandler was purpose-built for use in small spaces requiring up-andover reach such as light construction, agriculture, landscape and hardscape work. This 3,000-pound-class
telehandler is well-suited for loading and unloading pallets from flatbed trucks, as well as lifting and placing materials at heights up to 13 feet. The 3013 telehandler weighs 5,300 pounds with a load capacity of 2,700 pounds. Its compact four-by-six-byeight-foot-nine-inch footprint and rear pivot steer make it highly manoeuverable, while its light weight allows for transport by a standard pickup truck equipped with a towbehind trailer. Additionally, the model features fourwheel drive, two-wheel rear steer and a hydrostatic drive system, all supported
by a Kubota V-1505 diesel, 24.8-horsepower engine. The SkyTrak 3013 is built to be the best solution for handling and transporting materials in small spaces. In addition to its compact footprint, the 3013 comes standard with a universal quick coupler, allowing the operator to change attachments and implements right from the cab of the machine and share attachments purchased for use on other equipment in a contractors’ fleet, such as skid steer loaders. When compared to skid steers, the new ultracompact machine will offer better reach into truck beds and trailers and over obstacles, in addition to better lift height for single story houses and dump trucks. The cab design is spacious, and the placement of the boom gives operators a 360-degree view.
UNIVERSAL ATTACHMENTS barretomfg.com 8
The 825TKL mini track loader from Barreto features an innovative cab-over design,
allowing exceptional access to key components, cutting routine maintenance time and improving your bottom line. The articulating rollers on the track system tackle uneven terrain and absorb impact, providing stability and comfort to the operator. The universal attachment plate on the TKL allows for the use of any industry-standard quick-change attachment, providing value by eliminating the unnecessary cost of brandspecific attachments. The TKL experience incorporates an electronic display panel that is clear and easy to understand. Featuring a unique high/medium/low speed selection, the operator can adjust the track drive speed of the TKL to the task at hand, benefiting both seasoned and novice operators. There are a variety of safety features on the TKL, including the operator presence switch that senses when the operator is no longer standing on the ride platform. The TKL is also equipped with innovative tipover protection, utilizing the machine’s incline sensor to shut off the fuel supply and lock the TKL in the event of a rollover situation. A fourdigit safety code is required to restart the TKL, preventing
LANDSCAPING SHOWCASE
potential engine damage and giving the owner the opportunity to inspect and secure the machine.
MUST-HAVE
bannermansportsturf magic.com 8
The Bannerman B-MTD-2012 Mini Topper is designed to apply top dressing evenly on small- to medium-sized high wear turf grass areas or residential lawns. This walk-behind machine has a 24-inch spread width and 68 litre capacity. The front brush provides a quick adjustment for material spread depth. It’s a must-have item for spreading organic topdressing, peat moss and loam.
INDOOR-SAFE
greenworkstools.ca 8
The all-new GreenWorks 82PC12 12-inch brushless power cutter features a precision aiming LED to give confidence with every cut. It has an IPX4 rating and uses a 12-inch saw blade. A real commercial electric stone saw, it provides a high degree of versatility allowing for use indoors or in enclosed areas with harmful exhaust fumes or fuel mixing. The oversized trigger makes it easier to operate wearing gloves. The 82PC12 delivers a 40-minute constant run time on a fouramp battery.
HEAVY-DUTY TUB
toro.com 8
Built on the same frame as the popular MB TX 2500 tracked Mud Buggy, the new Toro Swivel Mud Buggy features a redesigned tub that enables it to swivel 180 degrees, allowing users to dump materials anywhere between the 180-degree angle. For enhanced durability, the Swivel Mud Buggy also offers a thicker 3/8-inch polyethylene tub material. With the increased thickness of the tub, users can tackle more jobs with confidence and ease, regardless of the material being transported, including sand, rock, mulch or even cement. In addition to the swivel feature and the redesigned tub, the swivel switch travels with the right-hand control handle, allowing operators to safely and efficiently operate the machine while simultaneously swiveling the tub. The Toro Swivel Mud Buggy can carry up to 2,500 pounds of material, and the 25-horsepower Kohler Confidant engine delivers exceptional power to handle even the most challenging material handling applications. Additionally, the Swivel Mud Buggy can reach transport speeds of up to six miles per hour in forward and three miles per hour in reverse to efficiently transport material around the jobsite.
FASTER CLEANUP
littlewonder.com 8
Clear litter and debris faster with the Little Wonder Pro Vac SI. This professional debris vacuum is powered by a Honda engine. It’s equipped with a five-blade serrated steel impellor with 5:1 reduction ratio for superior suction and shredding capabilities in a compact footprint. The 40-gallon angled debris bag has an angled poly bottom to reduce wear and tear. Easy nozzle-height adjustment happens right from the
operator’s handle. An optional hose kit is available for cleaning out flower beds and hard-to-reach areas. It seats securely in a speciallycontoured pocket that blocks air flow when not in use.
BORE UNDER PAVEMENT
littlebeaver.com 8
Little Beaver is making it easier than ever to create clean, horizontal bores with its horizontal boring kits. The two types of horizontal boring
attachments turn versatile Little Beaver mechanical earth drills into precise, timesaving horizontal boring machines that can be used for a variety of applications including conduit, pipe and irrigation installments. Little Beaver’s horizontal boring kits are easier than physically forcing a pipe through soil by hand, and more cost effective than purchasing or renting expensive hydraulic and pneumatic moles, especially for those who already have a Little Beaver mechanical earth drill. Coupled with a Little Beaver drill, the sidewalk boring kit can efficiently create small bores up to five feet long. The kit includes a fivefoot auger with a three-inch diameter bit, a horizontal drill key, and a five-foot extension with a universal wiggle joint. The earth drill provides the
torque necessary to drill smoothly through the soil from one side of the sidewalk to the other. The driveway boring kit is ideal for jobs that require horizontal boring to lengths up to 50 feet, such as those under driveways and streets. The kit includes a choice of a two-, three- or four-inch water drill bit, plus a swivel adapter, the swivel assembly and horizontal drill key. The water swivel assembly connects between the swivel adapter on the drill handle and the 3/4-inch water pipe. A garden hose attaches to the swivel adapter and the water drill bit is screwed on the leading end of the water pipe. As water runs from the garden hose or pump to the driveway boring kit, it flushes the cuttings from the hole to make a complete bore parallel to the pavement above.
LESS VIBRATION
classenturfcare.com 8
This proven hydrostatic drive sod cutter has a 4.7 mileper-hour transport speed. Its cutting speed has two forward speeds and a reverse for a comfortable pace and an integrated throttle/clutch control on the handle for simple operation. It’s advanced vibration dampening system and cam provides enhanced operator comfort. The integrated rear swivel wheel locks in place for straight line cutting. It’s easy to operate thanks to user-friendly controls and a quick-view how-to panel.
SUPERIOR ROTOR
baumalight.com 8
The heart of the Baumalight 900 Series brush mulcher is the design of the rotor, available in either 60- or 72-inch sizes. The 900 Series rotor teeth are available in either double-carbide tipped
ripper or single-blade planer styles. The carbide ripper tooth is a good general use tooth for mulching with lots of ground contact. If there are not many stones, then the planer tooth is a little bit more efficient. A skidsteer brush mulcher is probably the most comfortable way for vegetation management, as your work is directly in front of you. Also equipped with a push bar, directional felling hook and optional two-speed motor, this heavy duty brush mulcher is sure to impress.
THREE CONFIGURATIONS
brownproducts.com 8
The multi-use Redefiner 450HA allows rental stores to offer their clients three configurations: a bed redefiner; the WireMaster model to install invisible dog fencing; or the standard sidewalk edger. The Redefiner is powered by a Honda GX160 engine and delivers bed-redefining productivity of up to 60 feet per minute or dog fence installation up to 25 feet per minute. This commercial unit
is light and easy to transport with fold-down handles as well as manoeuverable, making it ideal for home owners and contractors alike.
FOR TOUGH HARDSCAPE JOBS
echo.ca 8
The Echo CSG-7410 14-inch cut-off saw allows customers to build their dream hardscapes. It offer high cutting torque, one of the best air cleaning systems and professional features, giving contractors more power and durability for those tough hardscape jobs. Powered by a 73.5cubic centimetre two-stroke professional-grade engine, the CSG-7410’s high torque gives users greater ability to cut through masonry blocks or concrete without being bogged down. The patented four-stage air cleaner system protects the engine for longer life. Operators can achieve the perfect cut even close to buildings and obstacles with the CSG-7410’s reversible cutting arm, featuring a standard position for normal cutting and a reversed (outside
AD INDEX
mount) position. Combine the CSG-7410 with Echo’s new CWT-7410 cut-off saw cart for even more flexibility when cutting expansion cuts, curbs or any application where a wheeled concrete saw is necessary. The CSG-7410 is packed with professional features and comes with a oneyear warranty.
EASY ON THE BACK ryanturf.com 8
The ZTS stand-on aerator from Ryan is designed to be groundbreaking, not backbreaking. This stand-on zeroturn aerator has automatic chain tensioning on the main drive chains to ensure proper tension is maintained during operation. The aeration depth control device provides constant depth control up to five inches. A shock-absorbing platform and convenient thumb controls make operation easy. The ZTS can cover two-and-a-quarter acres per hour at ground speeds up to seven miles per hour. It’s available with an optional, electric, seed and fertilizer spreader kit and an LED light.
HOPE IS NOT A PLAN
No such thing as good enough
by Adam Snook
Working on cars and trucks with my grandpa when I was younger taught me a number of things. A swear word can be any word said with the wrong intent. Tenmillimeter sockets have legs and hide themselves. Engineers hate mechanics. And good enough is not the same as good.
I was young and impatient, so I would rush to get a job done as quickly as possible. My grandpa would ask me if I was ready for him to check it, I’d sometimes say, “Yes, it’s good enough.” Inevitably, every third or fourth job I did he’d find something that I’d missed or could have done better. Then I’d get the lecture about how our work should always be good and not “good enough.”
Good enough implies that it’s ok to just leave something as less than ideal. It’s the equivalent of we’ll get by, that’s all we need. In other words, the bare minimum.
Given the challenges in the world right now, if your attitude toward your business is it’s “good enough” you should start updating your resume today.
We’ve seen people who are smarter, more talented, and harder working than you and me lose their businesses through no fault of their own. Now those smart, hard working, and talented people are looking around at what industries and businesses not only survived, but thrived through the pandemic. And they’re looking directly at us. Don’t fool yourself into thinking that just because they owned a restaurant or retail business before that they’re not capable of getting into the rental business and chasing your customers. There’s nothing in this industry that they can’t learn on the fly, or hire the knowledge needed. Make no mistake, there is going to be thousands of experienced, and hungry people who will be looking for opportunities. Your business had better show that it’s good, and not just good enough. It should be a part of your annual review of your operation regardless. What systems do we have in place that can be improved upon? Is your order desk upselling every opportunity possible? Sales 101 reminds us that time in front of the customer is gold. You never know
how much you will have or when you will get it again. Therefore, you need to maximize the business you do with every interaction. Any time the customer isn’t offered a blade with that saw or a safety harness with that lift is a missed opportunity – good enough rather than good.
Are our mechanics being as diligent as possible on checking for customer damage and billing it back? Overlooking minor things might seem like good customer service, but over time it is death by a thousand cuts. A good example of “good enough” adding up to “bad.”
Is our wash bay spending the time cleaning and detailing the equipment to keep it as fresh as possible? Hey, that equipment doesn’t have to be perfect in order to go out there and do the job, right? That might be true, but each rental could be the first interaction the customer has had with your company. You know what they say about first impressions.
Is the office keeping on top of receivables? Drip, drip, drip. Every day the money is in their bank account instead of yours is another day of loss, either to missed interest or the cost of borrowing to cover your cash flow.
Given the insane demand for equipment,are your sales people getting the highest rates that your market will allow? Accepting “good enough” in your margins is effectively a bet that business will always be as good as it is today. Make money while the sun shines, the old farmer used to say.
Is your facility clean and inviting? See the point abover re: first impressions.
Are you doing everything you can to attract the top people when looking to hire? Accepting “good enough” in staff is a surefire recipe for disaster. In this business, where everything depends on the people, it won’t be long before that worker who was good enough is costing you in about 100 different ways.
None of us got into business with the intention of it being good enough, our goals were to be great. Let’s work on getting good, then we can challenge ourselves to greatness. CRS
Adam Snook owns Just Bins, a Regina-based provider of waste disposal solutions.
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