KIT
While the online side of the business has expanded rapidly, he explains that there will always be a balanced approach. “We’re very much focused on face-to-face at our showroom. er ice is key to what we offer,
it’s exciting that arborists can benefit from so many advances in terms of their equipment and clothing. I can remember a time when wearing chainsaw trousers felt like having duvets wrapped around your legs and so this is why we would not want to be purely online. Our customers, no matter where they are, can also call and email us for guidance. We have a wide range of stock and parts and always try and obtain items that customers request as quickly as possible, which can be very important in this sector.”
Horizon Outdoor Apparel
An important investment He continues: “We are very much aware that quality kit is not cheap and arborists put a lot of consideration into their purchases. This is demanding work and it can also be high risk. So, they are prepared to invest and this is
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why they may want to see the equipment or clothing in person and to speak to an expert.” In terms of stock, Forest and Arb seeks to be a one stop shop and works with major suppliers such as Husqvarna, Stihl and ECHO, climbing equipment including ropes, harnesses, carabiners and pulleys, woodchippers from Timberwolf and PPE including chainsaw trousers, waterproofs, headwear and safety boots. ichard says trade is strong, re ecting the fact that many arborists are busy. “Many found that levels of work increased because of the pandemic, more people at home led to a rise in demand for domestic tree care. There has also been a lot of storm clear up work too.” Even so, he says that for retailers and dealers, these ha e been di cult times, with deli eries affected by lockdowns and global supply chain problems. Best sellers There are now signs that matters are slowing improving and Forest and Arb is currently well stocked. In terms of items that are selling particularly well, Richard says these include Haix boots. “The company launched a new boot, the rotector Timber, which is specifically for arborists and was distributed from January. t s made of the latest materials and offers comfort in all types of conditions. Given that arborists spend so much time on their feet and outside, then the right footwear really matters.” Another best seller is Forest and Arb’s collaboration with Marlow Ropes as part of its Horizon Outdoor Apparel range. The new rope, Vega Dawn, is rainbow coloured and designed to stand out in the tree as well as being designed for the new generation of
Marlow Ropes 'Vega Dawn'
mechanical devices and techniques, such as the use of the Petzl Zigzag. Out and about Richard adds: “Overall, it’s exciting that arborists can benefit from so many advances in terms of their equipment and clothing. I can remember a time when wearing chainsaw trousers felt like having duvets wrapped around your legs – they were bulky and restricted movement. Now, they are made from strong but light fabrics that allow climbing and stretch as needed.” He adds that a further trend is the rising popularity of casual clothing from arborist providers and this includes a forthcoming range from Forest and Arb’s newly launched and exclusive brand, Horizon Outdoor Apparel. Richard concludes that Forest and Arb is also looking forward to meeting customers and displaying a selection of products at the forthcoming APF event which is taking place on 22, 23 and 24 September and is being held in conjunction with the Arb Show. “We’re committed to getting out and about again. Online trade and the presence of social media is of course far more in uential now, but there’s still nothing like catching up in person.” Richard Thomas is the manager of Forest and Arb. Learn more at: www.forestandarb.com
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