Parts Archives - Material Handling Wholesaler

Burwell Material Handling expands into Florida with acquisition of W.E. Johnson Equipment Company

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 16:40:24 +0000

Burwell Material Handling has announced the acquisition of W.E. Johnson Equipment Company, a material handling equipment dealer with locations in Miami and Fort Myers, Florida. This acquisition expands Burwell Material Handling’s national footprint to 20 branches, strengthening its ability to serve customers across the Southeast and beyond. Burwell Material Handling will update and rebrand the two locations of W.E. Johnson, founded in 1958. The upgraded facilities, which will include additional parts distribution, service bays, and rental equipment space, will allow the branches to build on their operations with greater access to resources, more brands, and an expanded lineup of services. “We’re thrilled to welcome the W.E. Johnson team and customers into the Burwell Material Handling family,” said Kent Senf, president of Burwell Material Handling “This move gives customers in Florida a smarter, safer way to handle their operations. By combining our team’s strengths, we’re delivering on our promise to help businesses run better and grow with confidence.” The acquisition is part of Burwell Material Handling’s strategic mission to deliver end-to-end solutions across the entire material handling lifecycle, from equipment and rentals to service, custom engineered systems, and fleet technologies. “Whether you’re in Miami, Fort Myers, or any one of our 20 locations across the country, our focus is the same,” Senf said. “We’re here to help customers make better decisions, reduce risk, and stay productive with integrated solutions and responsive local support.” Customers in South Florida can expect a seamless transition, with no anticipated disruptions to their existing service. Over the coming months, they will also gain access to Burwell Material Handling’s capabilities and product lines with equipment from leading OEMs, including Bobcat, CLARK, JLG, Genie, and Haulotte. “For nearly four decades, the Burwell family has grown their business by listening first, acting fast, and doing right by our partners,” Senf said. “We’re proud to carry that legacy forward by investing in teams like W.E. Johnson.”

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Creating high-performance teams with engagement and results

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 05:00:49 +0000

When most forklift dealerships evaluate the success of their aftermarket departments and functions, they focus on the usual Key Performance Indicators or KPIs — fill rates, technician utilization, work in process, and parts revenue. But if you look closer, the true driver behind consistent performance isn’t just better tools or sharper pricing. It’s the team culture that holds it all together. With today’s challenges in our industry, such as labor shortages, rising costs, and increasing customer expectations, the most effective dealerships are doing more than tracking metrics. They’re creating teams that function with clarity, confidence, and accountability — not just compliance. In speaking with dealership leaders across the country, I have identified three traits that consistently set their high-performing teams apart, and how your dealership can implement them. Productive Disagreement is a Strength, not a Disruption Successful aftermarket departments don’t avoid conflict — they embrace it. Productive disagreement allows your parts, service, and sales teams to challenge assumptions, raise red flags, and debate better solutions before mistakes happen. For example, if a technician questions a parts substitution or a counter rep challenges a commonly overlooked repair item, those moments shouldn’t be shut down — they should be welcomed. Friction, when rooted in professional respect and common goals, leads to better outcomes. In the hustle of daily operations, it’s easy to prioritize speed over discussion. But taking time to pause and ask, “Is this really the best way to do it?” can uncover inefficiencies that have gone unnoticed for months or even years. Whether it’s a recurring delay in ordering key components or confusion around repair quote approvals, healthy disagreement can be the spark that leads to long-overdue process improvements. What You Can Do: Encourage your teams to bring up inefficiencies, even if it ruffles feathers. Create “What Went Wrong” sessions where the team openly discusses recent service issues or miscommunications. Train frontline leaders to ask: “Is there a better way to do this?” This approach doesn’t slow you down — it sharpens your edge. In a business where reputation is everything, the ability to catch and correct problems early can be the difference between gaining a loyal customer and losing one forever. Psychological Safety Builds a Smarter, More Agile Team When people are afraid to speak up, they stay quiet — even when they know something is off. That silence can cost you time, customers, and even safety. The highest-performing service and parts teams foster an environment where everyone feels safe to raise concerns, admit mistakes, or suggest new ideas. This doesn’t mean lowering standards or tolerating excuses. It means removing fear from the learning and improvement process. This is especially important in multi-generational teams. Younger technicians may hesitate to offer input when seasoned veterans are present. Conversely, experienced employees may be reluctant to ask questions about new systems or technologies. A culture that encourages openness across all levels of experience allows the entire department to grow together. How to Build It: Acknowledge when leadership makes mistakes — it sets the tone for the team to do the same. Celebrate team members who identify potential problems, not just those who solve them. Provide anonymous feedback channels and act on what you learn. Psychological safety also boosts adaptability. In today’s aftermarket world, teams need to pivot quickly — whether it’s adjusting to supply chain delays, implementing new scheduling software, or adapting to customer service policies that shift overnight. Teams that feel safe are more responsive, creative, and aligned. When your people believe their voice matters, they bring more than their labor — they bring their insight. Shared Ownership Drives Engagement and Results One of the most overlooked performance drivers is ensuring that your team feels their work matters to the bigger picture. When counter staff, field technicians, and support roles understand how their work contributes to customer satisfaction and dealership profitability — and when they have a stake in the outcome — accountability increases. So does retention. We’ve all seen what happens when employees feel like cogs in the machine: enthusiasm wanes, quality dips, and turnover climbs. However, when employees are treated as contributors to the bottom line, they are not just labor costs — their mindset shifts. They care more about the outcome and take more pride in their role. Some dealerships are implementing this through bonus structures tied to department performance, while others have clearly communicated KPIs that are visible to everyone. The goal isn’t to turn every employee into an executive — it’s to help every employee act like one. Ways to Create Ownership: Post service efficiency, quote conversion rates, and parts fill rate goals in common areas. Tie quarterly bonuses to department-wide targets like first-time fixed rate or parts margin improvement. Involve employees in planning inventory strategies, scheduling changes, or tool upgrades. A shop floor bulletin board or digital dashboard can go a long way in making dealership performance visible and relevant to everyone. Even a brief monthly meeting that recaps progress toward shared goals can help people feel more connected to the mission. When the whole team is rowing in the same direction, performance becomes a collective outcome, not just a manager’s responsibility. Culture Is the Competitive Advantage You Control Every dealership is facing similar headwinds: technician shortages, rising input costs, and customers who expect the same level of service as Amazon. But not every dealership is creating the kind of culture that turns those challenges into opportunities. It doesn’t take a massive overhaul. Often, it just takes a consistent effort to change the conversations happening in the breakroom, during team meetings, and at the parts counter. By encouraging disagreement, fostering safety, and building ownership, you’ll make more than just a high-functioning team — you’ll create a dealership where people want to stay, customers want to come back, and performance sustains itself. That’s the kind of competitive advantage you don’t have to wait for the market to deliver. It’s one you build from the inside out. About the Author: Chris Aiello is the Business Development

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Motion opens new branch in Quebec

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 13:51:43 +0000

Expanding Motion’s service footprint in Canada Motion Industries, Inc. has announced the opening of a new sales branch in Quebec, Canada. The new facility, located at 2903 7th Street, Val-d’Or, officially opened on June 2, 2025. This strategic location strengthens the company’s ability to better serve and expand its customer base in Northern Quebec. The Val-d’Or facility joins an extensive network of approximately 70 Motion branches across Canada, further expanding the company’s market footprint. Services include product order fulfillment supported by a large inventory network, as well as engineering and repair services in pneumatics, hydraulics and power transmission. The location also offers industry training opportunities for customers. Leadership Quotes on the New Facility Brent Pope, Motion’s Senior Group Vice President, Canada & Sales Excellence, said: “This new branch is set up for success thanks to its experienced team, innovative services and strategic industrial park location. It reflects our commitment to supporting Quebec’s economy by delivering expert solutions and fostering strong community connections.” James Howe, President of Motion, added: “By establishing a foothold in Northern Quebec, we can now provide local customers with faster, more responsive service to help keep their facilities running smoothly. We’re eager to build lasting relationships through exceptional service.” A Positive Economic Impact for Quebec In addition to providing industry-leading services, the branch will create opportunities for skilled jobs in Quebec, stimulating the local economy and supporting a thriving community.

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Is your Dealership equipped for the Future of Customer Experience?

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 05:00:48 +0000

Back in March of this year, after attending and exhibiting at this year’s record-breaking ProMat Show in Chicago, one thing is clear: the future of material handling is arriving faster than many in our industry anticipated. The pace of innovation, particularly in automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence, has accelerated, and it’s reshaping expectations across the board, especially in the aftermarket segment for lift truck dealerships. More than 1,160 exhibitors showcased a diverse range of products, including autonomous mobile robots, predictive maintenance platforms, and traditional material handling solutions. There were also over 200 educational sessions that delved deeply into how these technologies are reshaping the supply chain landscape. The energy at the show was unmistakable, and automation is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a wave that’s already hitting the shores of warehouse and distribution operations. The tools on display weren’t just aspirational concepts; they were real, functional, and increasingly deployed in operations ranging from Fortune 500 distribution centers to mid-size regional warehouses. There certainly is an acceleration in the adoption of these technologies by end-users in manufacturing and supply chain operations. For those of us in the dealership world, particularly in parts and service, this acceleration is something we can’t afford to ignore. Automation Doesn’t Replace Lift Trucks—It Changes the Environment They Operate In Let’s be clear: forklifts and other industrial trucks aren’t going anywhere. They remain the backbone of warehouse operations. What’s changing is the ecosystem around them. When autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are moving pallets across zones and AI-driven WMS platforms are directing workflows in real-time, the role of lift trucks—and the expectations for their uptime—become even more mission-critical. That means the pressure on dealers to support uptime, supply the right parts, and deliver expert service is only increasing. Your customers who invest in automation aren’t looking to slow down. They need every component of their operation, including forklifts, to work flawlessly and integrate smoothly with the rest of their tech-enabled infrastructure. Downtime isn’t just inconvenient; it disrupts a carefully calibrated, digitally orchestrated supply chain. What This Means for the Aftermarket Side of the Business Here’s the part that matters most for aftermarket leaders: we are entering a new service era where speed, visibility, and specialization are becoming non-negotiable. Faster Fulfillment Is No Longer a Bonus—It’s a Baseline End-users now expect the same speed they’ve built into their automated warehouse systems to be reflected in the support they get from their dealership. This means the pressure is on your parts department to streamline inventory management and logistics. Stock outs will lose customers. Delays will be magnified. Dealers who invest in e-commerce platforms, real-time inventory visibility, and regional stocking strategies will gain a competitive edge. Technicians Must Be Trained to Support Smart Warehouses Service departments will need to evolve. Technicians are no longer just wrench-turners; they need to be systems thinkers who can troubleshoot not only forklifts but also understand how those trucks interact with other automation technologies. This includes knowledge of sensor systems, battery management software, telematics, and other related technologies. Dealerships should invest now in technician training that keeps pace with this expanding skill set. Parts Sales Are Becoming More Specialized As automation reshapes warehouse operations, the range of specialty attachments, sensors, batteries, and high-wear items associated with high-cycle, tech-integrated environments will expand. Dealers who understand this shift and proactively stock and promote these specialized parts will better serve their customers—and increase their margins. Predictive and Remote Maintenance Models Are Rising Automation isn’t just about moving goods faster—it’s also about predicting failure before it happens. Dealerships should expect an increase in customers inquiring about remote monitoring, telematics-based service models, and predictive maintenance options. Those that embrace these tools will not only reduce customer downtime but also create stickier, more long-term service relationships. The Dealer’s Role Is Becoming More Strategic As warehouses adopt complex systems, they’ll rely more heavily on trusted partners to help them optimize those systems. This positions the dealership not just as a vendor but as a strategic advisor. Offering insights, service planning, system integration advice, and even retrofit suggestions will become part of the aftermarket value proposition. Hiring and Training for the Next-Gen Aftermarket Team As automation, robotics, and AI continue to integrate into warehouse operations, one of the most critical shifts lift truck dealerships must make is in how they build and train their aftermarket teams. Traditional roles within the parts and service departments are being stretched—and in some cases redefined—to meet the technical demands of this evolving customer base. The Rise of the Specialized Parts Professional Historically, the parts counter has focused on sourcing and supplying components tied to forklifts and other off-highway industrial equipment. That job still exists and remains critical. But today’s warehouse customers are increasingly asking their dealers to support a broader range of systems—including conveyor belts, robotic shuttles, vertical lift modules (VLMs), automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), and a growing number of smart sensor and control technologies. This shift raises the question: Can a single parts person effectively serve both markets? In many cases, the answer is no—or at least, not for long. Dealers are starting to recognize the value of segmenting their aftermarket staff by specialization. That might mean hiring a dedicated parts expert trained explicitly in supporting warehouse automation systems and industrial controls, separate from the traditional forklift parts team. These roles require familiarity with different product catalogs, supplier relationships, and service-level expectations. Selling a laser sensor for an AS/RS is a very different transaction than selling a mast chain for a 5,000 lb. forklift. Dealers who want to win business from warehouses adopting automation should consider building a dedicated parts desk—or at the very least, assigning a go-to person trained in automation system components, software integrations, and OEM-specific support structures. Service Technicians: Generalists vs. Specialists On the service side, the need for specialization is even more pronounced. Technicians trained in internal combustion forklifts or electric lift trucks are not automatically equipped to troubleshoot a malfunctioning conveyor PLC, reprogram a robotic cart, or calibrate

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Arnold Magnetic Technologies highlights the PLASTIFORM® High Energy Flexible Magnets, Made in America

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 20:11:06 +0000

Arnold Magnetic Technologies Corporation (Arnold), a subsidiary of Compass Diversified and a global manufacturer of high-performance magnets and precision thin metals, is highlighting the PLASTIFORM® High Energy Flexible Magnets. This innovative product line, made in America, delivers unprecedented design versatility and exceptional quality, resulting in significant system savings compared to conventional magnets. As global supply chains shift, Arnold is uniquely positioned to support customers seeking to reshore their production. By offering domestically produced PLASTIFORM® flexible magnets, Arnold helps manufacturers strengthen their U.S. operations, improve supply chain reliability, and meet the highest standards of quality and performance. PLASTIFORM® High Energy Flexible Magnets are engineered specifically for applications that require increased magnetic field strength while maintaining the flexibility of a bonded magnet, even in environments with high temperatures, wide temperature ranges, or exposure to corrosive materials. These advanced magnetic and physical characteristics distinguish PLASTIFORM® magnets from standard flexible magnets, making them ideal for critical applications where reliability and durability are crucial. They are the preferred choice for applications in position sensing, chip collection, and holding, especially where reliability in harsh environments is non-negotiable. These magnets are widely used in automated guided vehicles and robotics, sprinkler systems, cylinder position sensors, ABS brake sensors, smoke curtains, automated storage and retrieval systems, and flexographic printing presses. Their superior thermal characteristics, dimensional stability, and solvent resistance ensure consistent performance in the most demanding environments. With energy products ranging from 1.0 to 1.6 MGOe, PLASTIFORM® magnets are available in a wide selection of thicknesses, roll sizes, and finishes, allowing them to be precisely tailored for a broad range of applications. Arnold offers both bonded ferrite and bonded rare-earth materials to meet the demanding requirements of motor stators and rotors, actuators, instrumentation, armatures, and holding magnets used across the automotive, medical, defense, and commercial sectors. The PLASTIFORM® product line’s exceptional design versatility and superior quality deliver substantial system savings compared to conventional magnets. Their advanced chemical resistance, ability to perform at high operating temperatures, and strong holding forces provide manufacturers with a distinct advantage when seeking reliable and long-lasting magnetic solutions. As more U.S. manufacturers look to reshore their production for greater supply chain security and reduced lead times, Arnold’s domestically produced PLASTIFORM® flexible magnets offer a strategic advantage. By sourcing from Arnold’s U.S. facilities, customers can reduce reliance on overseas suppliers, ensure compliance with American quality standards, and support domestic manufacturing jobs.

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Safety is more than a checklist—It’s a sales opportunity

Tue, 20 May 2025 05:00:23 +0000

Each June, National Forklift Safety Month serves as a valuable reminder of how critical safety is to the material handling industry. But it’s not just a time for awareness—it’s a prime opportunity for your dealership to strengthen customer relationships, differentiate yourself in a competitive market, and drive growth in your parts and service departments. Forklifts are essential to warehouse and distribution operations, but they also present serious risks. According to OSHA data, thousands of injuries and dozens of fatalities occur each year due to forklift-related incidents. Many of these are preventable with the right equipment, training, and safety protocols in place. For dealers, that reality presents both a responsibility and a business opportunity. In a previous edition of mine on this topic, I emphasized how offering safety-related products and services reinforces your role as a trusted advisor to your customers. This year, I want to expand that idea by focusing on how smart safety strategies can translate into tangible sales and profitability gains for your parts and service departments. Safety is More Than a Checklist—It’s a Sales Conversation Many dealerships treat safety as a compliance issue—important, but not necessarily strategic. That’s a missed opportunity. When your parts and service teams actively promote safety products, inspections, and training, you create new touchpoints to serve your customers and generate additional revenue. Think about your service technicians. They’re often the first to notice missing seatbelts, worn backup alarms, or cracked mirrors during PMs or on-site calls. Equipping your service team with a list of safety upsell opportunities—back-up cameras, LED warning lights, pedestrian alert systems—turns routine maintenance into a conversation that protects people and boosts your bottom line. At the same time, your parts counter team should be fluent in safety solutions. Do they have projection lights, strobe beacons, and horn kits ready to recommend when a customer comes in for a standard replacement part? Are they promoting high-visibility gear, impact barriers, or overhead guard covers during June’s safety spotlight? These small additions not only enhance your customer’s fleet; they contribute directly to your sales mix. The Rise of Visual and Proximity-Based Safety Tech One area that continues to evolve—and create opportunity for dealerships—is visual safety and proximity alert technology. Traditional safety lights and alarms still serve a critical function, but today’s options go far beyond the basics. For example, TVH’s Play It Safe product line includes: Blue and red projection lights that visually alert pedestrians to a forklift’s presence, even around blind corners or high-rack intersections. Rotating beacons and LED strobes to enhance visibility in busy or low-light environments. Zone lights that create visible safety zones around a forklift to maintain proper pedestrian distance. These products are effective, affordable, easy to install, and ideal for bundling into fleet safety upgrades or PM packages. As fleets age or companies add new operators, these simple add-ons can drastically reduce risk. That means ongoing revenue streams for your dealership through retrofits, service calls, and parts replenishment. PPE and Facility Safety: Expand Beyond the Forklift Forklift safety doesn’t end at the lift truck. Dealerships should also offer personal protective equipment (PPE) and facility safety products. Many of your parts suppliers’ catalogs include: Hi-vis clothing and safety vests Hard hats, face shields, and safety glasses Hand and foot protection Column guards, floor striping, and pedestrian barriers For customers trying to meet warehouse safety audits or ANSI/OSHA standards, these items are often purchased in bulk and replenished regularly. By keeping them stocked and suggesting them during sales conversations, your dealership can expand its aftermarket footprint beyond just forklift components. Even something as simple as a safety mirror in a warehouse aisle or a replacement horn on an older unit shows that your dealership is thinking ahead for your customers. That builds trust and repeat business. Turn Safety into Service Opportunities National Forklift Safety Month is also the perfect time to offer safety inspections as a service. Whether performed by your shop techs or field service team, these walk-throughs can flag missing or damaged components and lead directly to quotes for: New seat belts or operator restraints Wheel and tire replacements Lighting upgrades Backup alarms or cameras These inspections take relatively little time but can generate meaningful add-on sales while providing clear value to the customer. More importantly, they show your dealership’s proactive commitment to keeping your customers compliant and safe. From Compliance to Competitive Advantage When your dealership leans into safety, you aren’t just checking a box—you’re carving out a competitive edge. Customers increasingly want suppliers who take a holistic view of their operations. If your team consistently points out safety risks, recommends helpful solutions, and offers easy ways to stay compliant, you’re more than a vendor. You’re a partner. And that partnership pays off. Safety products generally have healthy margins, and bundling them with standard parts orders or service visits increases average ticket size. Customers are more likely to stick with vendors who help them avoid costly accidents and improve workplace morale. National Forklift Safety Month is a built-in marketing campaign that dealerships can and should leverage. Host a safety-themed open house. Promote safety bundles on your website and social media. Equip your team with talking points and flyers. Run a contest for operators who complete safety refreshers. Send an email campaign featuring your top-selling safety items. Whatever you do, don’t let June come and go without making the most of it. Safety doesn’t just protect your customers—it can also protect and grow your business. About the Author: Chris Aiello is the Business Development Manager at TVH Parts Co. He has been in the equipment business for over 19 years, serving in various roles, including service manager, quality assurance manager, and business development manager. Chris now manages a national outside sales team that sells replacement parts and accessories to various equipment markets, including material handling, equipment rental, and construction and earthmoving dealerships.

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FB Chain celebrates 40 years of lifting innovations

Thu, 08 May 2025 18:35:12 +0000

FB Chain has been a driving force in transforming lifting equipment worldwide for four decades. From pioneering leaf chain assembly kits to revolutionising wear measurement, the UK-based company has built a reputation for technical leadership, a customer-first approach, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, solidifying its position as a trusted global partner in the materials handling and construction sectors. Celebrating 40 years of leaf chain innovation, FB Chain began in 1985 as a supplier to British forklift truck manufacturers. Today, the company provides critical lifting components for forklifts, telehandlers, aerial work platforms, and reach stackers in over 50 countries, a testament to its global expansion and industry influence. A different kind of chain supplier FB Chain recognised the need to differentiate itself from bulk chain suppliers from its inception. Instead of competing on volume, the company focused on quality, safety, and delivering practical solutions to customer challenges, enhancing performance, efficiency, and convenience. Central to this philosophy is the engineering of each chain to exceed ISO 4347 standards by 20%, promoting greater durability and safety. Each chain is stamped at metre intervals with a unique tracking number, linked to a batch test certificate for complete traceability and quality assurance. FB Chain disrupted traditional practices by introducing leaf chain assembly kits with chain cut to length and anchor bolts already fitted to be mounted directly onto equipment lifting mechanisms. This ‘plug and play’ approach and guaranteed time-specific delivery slots revolutionised customer operations. Continuous innovation for efficiency and sustainability “This was unheard of at the time, a real game-changer,” explains former director Jim Cameron. “For our customers, the kits boosted productivity, reduced labor requirements, and minimised waste, while our just-in-time delivery helped them save on storage space and costs.” Further demonstrating its commitment to problem-solving, FB Chain developed the FB Professional Chain Wear Gauge. Unlike previous tools that either showed ‘worn’ or ‘not worn’, this gauge provides precise wear readings in 0.25% increments, allowing maintenance teams to optimise chain replacement, enhance safety, minimise downtime, and reduce unnecessary costs. The gauge has since become an international standard for leaf chain inspection. Never stopping to innovate Despite the simplicity of chain technology, FB Chain remains dedicated to continuous innovation, helping customers save time, money, energy, and waste. This commitment extends to advancements in material development, such as Xtreme Pressure leaf chains for increased strength, and Supershield chains for enhanced corrosion resistance, ultimately improving equipment reliability, uptime, and lowering replacement costs. Recognising the growing importance of supply chain sustainability, FB Chain is also actively addressing one of the biggest challenges its customers face today: reducing their Scope 3 emissions, namely the indirect emissions that occur in a company’s value chain, including purchased components and their transportation. FB Chain sources its steel from an Italian supplier committed to a circular economy. It uses 95% scrap metal and electric arc furnaces, reducing CO2 emissions by up to 60% per leaf chain anchor bolt. Furthermore, FB Chain’s purpose-built facility in Letchworth, equipped with solar panels, intelligent design, and comprehensive recycling initiatives, achieves negative annual carbon emissions after accounting for offsets. The company prioritizes innovation and sustainability as it looks to the future. A key focus is automation, demonstrated by its early investment in robotic arms to automate the loading and unloading of CNC turning machines for anchor bolt production. This significantly boosted capacity and enabled 24/7 operation to help meet short-notice requests. With seven robotic arms now in use, further investments will ensure greater customer value. We’re not just celebrating our past, but also laying the groundwork for the future,” concludes FB Chain’s current managing director. “By continuing to invest in advanced materials, smarter technology, and greener operations, we’re positioning ourselves to stay ahead of the evolving needs of our global customers for the next 40 years and beyond.”

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KEEN announces Price Commitment in response to evolving tariffs

Thu, 08 May 2025 16:29:38 +0000

The values-led shoemaker will not implement tariff-related price increases in 2025 KEEN Inc., the values-led, Consciously Created business, is on a mission to be the world’s most innovative, regenerative, and trusted footwear company. Throughout its 22-year journey, the pioneering, family-owned business has continued to stand by one simple belief: when things get tough, you show up for the people who matter most. Today, it is stepping forward with a clear decision: KEEN will not implement any tariff-related price increases for the remainder of 2025. In these unprecedented times, KEEN has been monitoring the landscape and listening to its partners, fans, and community. While no one knows what the future holds, the company is dedicated to lessening the impact in the areas it can control. Founder and CEO of KEEN, Rory Fuerst, has sent an official letter to all its partners, confirming the business decision, “We believe it’s our responsibility to support our retail partners and fans through this period of uncertainty. By holding our prices steady, we aim to help you maintain strong consumer relationships and continue delivering the value and quality people expect from KEEN.” Fuerst added, “We recognize this is not a simple or easy choice in today’s climate — but it’s the right one.” KEEN is backed by a diversified supply chain, owned manufacturing, including a factory in the USA, and proactive planning. The company is fortunate to be in a position to absorb these impacts without passing them on to its community. KEEN wants its fans, partners, and global community to know it stands with them in solidarity through the economic uncertainty and challenges ahead.

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When disasters strike, do you have established vendor relationships to help your company stay operational?

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 05:00:24 +0000

In one of my early editions, I discussed the hidden costs of variability in the supply chain. This is always a relevant topic worth discussing; in that edition, it focuses on shipping delays, raw material shortages, and uncertainty about when your products will arrive. At the time, you were used to your suppliers providing next-day shipping or local same-day pickup. Weekly stock orders arrive on the same day each week, like clockwork. All of those conveniences we take for granted were unknown variables back then. While we have returned to somewhat normal ‘clockwork’ deliveries, this year has presented its challenges thus far due to weather conditions. Record snowfall and freezing temperatures hampered the start of 2025. Additionally, natural disasters are striking with greater frequency and intensity than ever before. For material handling dealers, disruptions due to weather or natural disasters don’t just slow things down—they threaten your customer relationships, increase costs, and create uncertainty in an already competitive industry. When parts don’t arrive on time, your customer applications, such as warehouses and distribution centers, can come to a halt, and your customers will quickly seek alternative solutions. The question isn’t whether supply chain disruptions will happen but how prepared your dealership is to handle them when they do. When disasters strike, dealers’ toughest challenges keep critical parts flowing while navigating supply chain disruptions, shipping delays, and unpredictable customer demands. A single storm or wildfire can shut down a key supplier, leaving dealers scrambling to find alternatives. Freight routes get clogged, labor shortages emerge, and what was once a simple reorder turns into a logistical nightmare. These disruptions lead to longer lead times, higher costs, and customer frustration—things no dealer wants to deal with. So, what does this mean specifically for smaller forklift dealerships or independent material handling dealers? Unlike large, factory-owned operations, smaller dealers often lack the buying power or extensive supplier networks to absorb shocks easily. Additionally, they may not have the luxury of stockpiling large amounts of parts or the ability to pull inventory from multiple branches. Every disruption hits closer to home—directly affecting the ability to keep their customers’ fleets running. For example, if your primary supplier’s warehouse is shut down due to a hurricane, your parts orders could be delayed for weeks. That delay doesn’t just impact your inventory; it also disrupts your service technicians’ ability to complete repairs on time. Missed deadlines for preventive maintenance agreements, delayed customer repairs, or repeated back orders will damage your dealership’s reputation and profitability. These supply chain slowdowns can also create cash flow challenges. You may be required to source higher-cost parts from alternative suppliers or incur expedited shipping fees to meet customer demands. Rising freight costs, combined with unexpected supplier surcharges, erode margins and necessitate challenging pricing decisions. Additionally, with tight inventories, you risk losing parts sales to competitors who can source the part more quickly. That’s why, if you’re a smaller dealership, you must be intentional about how you prepare. Relying on a single supplier with a single warehouse leaves your business vulnerable. Building relationships with vendors that have multiple distribution centers (Hint, Hint!)—even if they aren’t your primary suppliers—gives you more flexibility when emergencies arise. Having backup plans doesn’t necessarily mean doubling your inventory but having go-to options for high-demand parts. Another area small dealers often overlook is communication. Customers today expect transparency, especially when their equipment is down. Being upfront about potential delays, explaining why they occur, and offering realistic solutions like substitute parts or service alternatives helps maintain a strong relationship—even when things don’t go perfectly. You might not be able to control the global supply chain, but you can control how you respond. On the inventory side, even if you don’t have advanced systems, there’s value in closely tracking which parts tend to be bottlenecks during past disruptions. Perhaps it’s hydraulic components, control modules, or specific brands that are more difficult to source when disaster strikes. For example, maintaining a modest buffer stock of these items, especially during peak seasons or hurricane-prone months, can prevent a service shutdown when the next storm arrives. Technology is another area where small dealers can gain an edge. Cloud-based inventory platforms or vendor portals make it easier to see when suppliers are experiencing slowdowns. You don’t need to invest in expensive systems to benefit—many suppliers now offer real-time visibility tools. Using those tools to react quickly, place orders earlier, and keep your service team informed is key. Logistics flexibility is crucial, too. You may need to get creative working with local courier services, partnering with other regional dealers to share inventory in a pinch, or shifting to suppliers with distribution centers closer to your market. Having options lined up before disaster strikes helps you avoid last-minute panic. The truth is that supply chain disruptions aren’t going to disappear. If anything, they’re becoming part of how we do business. That’s why being prepared can’t be something you only think about when things go wrong; it must be part of how you run your business every day. It’s not about fancy tools or overcomplicated strategies. It’s about maintaining a clear line of sight on your inventory, knowing where your parts are sourced, and staying ahead of market changes. At the end of the day, it comes down to being able to adjust quickly and keep your customers taken care of, even when things don’t go as planned. The dealers who stay flexible, work closely with their suppliers, and communicate openly with their customers will be the ones who remain steady, no matter what’s happening around them. About the Author: Chris Aiello is the Business Development Manager at TVH Parts Co. He has been in the equipment business for over 19 years, serving in various roles, including service manager, quality assurance manager, and business development manager. Chris now manages a national outside sales team that sells replacement parts and accessories to various equipment markets, including material handling, equipment rental, and construction and earthmoving dealerships.

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Is your dealership prepared to take on the electrification market shift?

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 05:00:26 +0000

As we enter the second quarter of 2025, the material handling industry continues to see the trend toward electrification and sustainability initiatives. While regulatory pressures have fluctuated, more end-users want to transition their forklift fleets to electric models over internal combustion engine (ICE) units. This shift is not confined to one region—it is reshaping fleet policies and dealership strategies nationwide as companies seek cleaner, more cost-effective equipment solutions. As a result, dealerships and service providers must adapt their strategy to support customers switching to electric-powered fleets. Electrification isn’t just about compliance—it’s a fundamental market shift affecting how dealerships sell, service, and support their customers. While much attention is on new equipment sales, the real impact will be felt in service and parts departments, where traditional ICE-driven revenue streams are evolving. This transition brings both challenges and opportunities to dealerships. How can service and parts managers prepare for an electric-dominated market? What strategies will sustain and grow their aftermarket business? Let’s explore how these departments must adapt to the demands of electrification. Service Departments Electric forklifts have fewer moving parts than their ICE counterparts, which means fewer traditional service visits. No more oil changes, fuel system maintenance, spark plug replacements, or exhaust system repairs. This shift challenges service departments that rely on recurring maintenance work to drive revenue. However, there are several strategies dealerships can use to stay relevant in the electrified market. Shift to Predictive and Proactive Maintenance Instead of focusing on reactive repairs, service departments should shift toward predictive maintenance strategies that leverage technology and data analytics. This approach minimizes unexpected downtime and helps customers extend the lifespan of their electric forklifts, ensuring optimal performance over time. One key area of focus is battery health monitoring. Many modern electric forklifts have smart battery management systems (BMS) that track charge cycles, temperature fluctuations, and capacity degradation. By offering remote battery monitoring services, dealerships can proactively alert customers to potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs or forklift failures. Another game-changer is telematics and IoT-based service plans. With built-in telematics, electric forklifts generate valuable data on usage patterns, charging habits, and component wear. Dealerships can use this information to provide subscription-based service programs, allowing them to anticipate maintenance needs and address minor issues before they impact productivity. This proactive approach strengthens customer relationships by reducing unplanned downtime and ensuring their fleet runs smoothly. Retraining Technicians for High-Voltage Systems One of the most significant shifts in forklift servicing is the need for specialized training in high-voltage electrical systems. While ICE forklift technicians are experienced in mechanical repairs, servicing electric forklifts requires an entirely different skill set. Technicians must become proficient in lithium-ion and lead-acid battery maintenance, high-voltage circuit troubleshooting, battery cooling and thermal management systems, electric motor diagnostics, and inverter repairs. Without this expertise, your service department risks falling behind as more customers transition to electric fleets. Your dealership should invest in comprehensive training programs covering key electrical fundamentals, including basic circuits, DC motors, control systems, and advanced motor controls such as SCR and transistor-based systems. Hands-on troubleshooting sessions are particularly valuable, allowing your technicians to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios by diagnosing and resolving introduced faults. TVH University’s Electric Truck training curriculum is an excellent resource for dealerships looking to upskill their workforce. It offers structured courses designed to equip technicians with the knowledge and hands-on experience required to safely and effectively service electric forklifts. Failing to adapt to this industry shift could mean losing customers who need reliable and knowledgeable service providers for their electric fleets. Dealerships that take a proactive approach to technician training will retain their current customers and position themselves as leaders in their respective markets. Expanding Service Capabilities With electric forklifts requiring fewer traditional service visits, dealerships have an opportunity to enhance their on-site service capabilities. Expanding service offerings ensures that customers receive timely diagnostics and battery maintenance without unnecessary downtime. Well-equipped service vans, stocked with battery testing tools, software diagnostic equipment, and essential replacement components, allow technicians to address issues efficiently at the customer’s location. Parts Departments Traditional parts sales are shrinking with the shift to electrification, but new opportunities are emerging. Instead of engine and fuel system parts, demand is shifting to batteries, electrical components, and charging infrastructure. Parts departments must have the proper inventory to support battery maintenance and repairs. Partnering with the right suppliers can streamline procurement and keep essential battery-related products readily available. Stocking items such as battery cleaning and repair supplies, gauges, indicators, replacement cells, and vent caps ensure customers can maintain their battery systems efficiently. Cables, connectors, and terminal covers are critical components that help your customers keep their battery-powered equipment running safely and effectively. In addition, battery watering solutions are key in maintaining lead-acid batteries, preventing premature wear and performance issues. Keeping a comprehensive battery parts inventory is essential. Partnering with reliable suppliers and implementing strategic inventory initiatives for these products ensures your parts department stays ahead of demand while maximizing revenue opportunities. As more forklift fleets transition to electric, aftermarket strategies must evolve to keep pace. While demand for traditional ICE parts and maintenance services may decline, new revenue opportunities are emerging for dealerships. Investing in technician training for high-voltage systems, battery diagnostics, and electric motor repairs will be critical to supporting this shift. At the same time, service departments must rethink their approach, moving toward predictive maintenance programs and expanding mobile service capabilities to keep customers up and running with on-site battery diagnostics and repairs. Dealerships that take action now will position themselves as key service partners in the growing electric forklift market, regardless of fluctuating regulatory pressures. About the Author: Chris Aiello is the Business Development Manager at TVH Parts Co. He has been in the equipment business for 19-plus years as a service manager, quality assurance manager, and business development manager. Chris now manages a national outside sales team that sells replacement parts and accessories in various equipment markets, such as material handling, equipment rental, and construction/earthmoving dealerships.

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Is your dealership prepared to take on the electrification market shift?

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 05:00:26 +0000

The post Is your dealership prepared to take on the electrification market shift? appeared first on Material Handling Wholesaler.

PosiCharge to showcase expanded line of charging solutions at ProMat 2025

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 15:32:31 +0000

PosiCharge ™ is set to exhibit its expanding lineup of material handling equipment (MHE) charging products at ProMat 2025 in Chicago from March 17 to March 20. Attendees can explore PosiCharge’s lineup at Booth S1973 in the South Hall of McCormick Place to explore the company’s latest advancements, designed to optimize global warehouse and distribution center operations and drive business efficiency. PosiCharge, a product line of Ampure Charging Systems, Inc., specializes in robust charging solutions that maximize fleet efficiency and safety for material handling operations. With decades of experience delivering power and innovation, PosiCharge’s technology helps businesses seamlessly transition from traditional fuel sources to efficient electric power, reducing downtime and enhancing safety. “Reliability and efficiency are critical in warehouse and distribution environments, and PosiCharge is committed to providing solutions that keep fleets moving,” said DJ Gregory, president, of Industrial PosiCharge (IPC) Ampure. “At ProMat 2025, we’re excited to showcase our expanded ProCore Edge line, demonstrating how these chargers simplify and scale industrial charging across diverse global power requirements, empowering businesses to optimize their operations and embrace electrification.” PosiCharge’s presence at ProMat 2025 highlights their commitment to innovation in the material handling sector, helping businesses reduce operational costs, streamline fleet charging, and enhance workplace safety. The PosiCharge team will be on-site to discuss charging solutions that facilitate a smooth transition to electric fleets and improve overall operational efficiency, specifically addressing the needs of warehouse managers, operations directors, and logistics professionals. PosiCharge’s ProMat 2025 Highlights: Since its inception, PosiCharge has been at the forefront of providing reliable and efficient charging infrastructure for demanding industrial environments for over 25 years. As industries continue to shift toward electrification, PosiCharge remains committed to delivering innovative solutions that keep operations running efficiently and fuel fleets for the future.

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TVH opens new Reno, Nevada Distribution Center

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 01:32:48 +0000

TVH Americas, a worldwide provider of quality replacement parts and accessories for the material handling, industrial, and light construction equipment industries, has announced the opening of its new distribution center in Reno, Nevada. The new facility is located at 900 N Hills Blvd, Suite 303, Reno, Nevada, and as of February 24, 2025, it has been serving customers from the new location. This new 48,000-square-foot facility will increase accessibility to parts and accessories by providing additional space for expanded inventory with over 33,000 SKU locations. TVH is dedicated to continuing to grow and enhance its services across the Americas, ensuring customers have more options and quicker access to products. The expanded space will also enhance logistics operations, enabling more efficient inventory management and order fulfillment.

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Is your parts department the backbone of your dealership? It better be

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 06:00:06 +0000

The parts department is often referred to as the backbone of a dealership. It provides essential support to the service team, ensures customers receive the necessary components and contributes significantly to the dealership’s bottom line. Despite its critical role, the parts department frequently encounters challenges in maintaining operational efficiency, keeping up with customer expectations, and competing with online resellers. Addressing these challenges requires a strategic approach prioritizing productivity, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Optimizing the parts department involves more than just day-to-day operations. Adopting key strategies and aligning efforts with broader dealership goals can turn your parts department into a competitive advantage. Let’s explore some actionable ways to boost productivity, improve customer retention, and create lasting success for your parts department. Streamline Inventory Management Efficient inventory management is the cornerstone of a productive parts department. To achieve this, your dealership should improve process flow, organize inventory effectively, and remove obsolete or non-returnable parts. Regular audits are critical in identifying slow-moving or outdated stock, allowing your parts department to make room for high-demand items. Using digital inventory tools can make it much easier for your team to quickly and accurately locate parts when needed. Consider upgrading your ERP system if you do not have a sufficient inventory management system today. Pairing these tools with a well-organized parts warehouse layout reduces wasted time searching, streamlines your workflow, and makes delivering top-notch service to your customers easier. Support the Service Team’s Success A strong relationship between the parts and service departments can significantly enhance productivity in your business. The parts department should strive to become the cornerstone of the service team’s success. This requires fostering collaboration and understanding between the two teams. It is essential to establish workflows that ensure technicians have the parts they need on time. Cross-training parts personnel to understand service technicians’ specific needs and timelines helps bridge the gap between departments. Additionally, pre-staging parts for scheduled service appointments can reduce delays and improve efficiency. If you don’t currently have real-time communication channels in place, consider simple solutions like email updates, text notifications, or even a dedicated phone line to keep your team informed about parts availability and delivery schedules. These tools can help strengthen your partnerships and improve overall efficiency. Leverage the Competitive Advantage of Service Technicians The growing presence of internet parts resellers poses a challenge for the traditional dealership parts department. Indeed, as you’ve read in many of my past editions, I favor establishing a digital strategy and e-commerce site to sell your products online. Whether you currently have an e-commerce solution in place or not, your service technicians still offer a unique advantage that online competitors cannot replicate. By positioning technicians as trusted advisors, your dealership can demonstrate the added value of purchasing parts directly from them. Training technicians to identify upselling opportunities during service visits is a powerful strategy. For example, they can recommend preventive maintenance parts or upgrades that benefit the customer long-term. Bundling parts and services into convenient packages further highlights your dealership’s ability to provide comprehensive solutions, ensuring a seamless customer experience. Differentiate with Value-Added Offerings Your parts department can set itself apart by offering value-added programs tailored to your customers’ needs. Consider introducing extended warranties for parts, giving your customers confidence in their purchases and building trust in your dealership. Promote reconditioned and certified parts as reliable, cost-effective alternatives, highlighting their quality and dependability to attract budget-conscious buyers. Offering tailored parts kits or bundles for specific maintenance tasks can demonstrate your understanding of their needs while showcasing convenience and savings. By effectively promoting these offerings, you can educate your customers, build loyalty, and keep them returning to your dealership. Focus on Customer Retention Keeping your customers coming back is key to growing your parts business. Focus on making it easy for them to work with your dealership and anticipate their needs to stay ahead of your competition. Use customer data and purchase history to keep frequently ordered parts in stock and suggest products they might need. Data-informed decision-making continues to be a trend we touch on here in this column if you’ve noticed. Additionally, consider offering creative delivery options like parts consignments at job sites or same-day delivery for urgent orders; it’s all about making things convenient for them. Don’t forget to ask for feedback regularly; it’ll help you identify areas to improve and show your customers that you’re committed to meeting their needs and building strong, lasting relationships. Becoming the Go-To Parts Provider in Your Market The parts department can potentially be your dealership’s most significant competitive asset. By focusing on productivity, profitability, and customer satisfaction, you can create a parts operation that supports your internal teams and strengthens customer relationships. The keys to success lie in strategic inventory management, fostering collaboration with the service team, leveraging unique competitive advantages, and delivering unmatched value to customers. Making intentional changes to boost operational productivity ensures your parts department stays at the heart of your dealership’s success. The time to step up is now. By implementing these strategies, your parts team can go above and beyond, drive profitability, and become a critical part of your business’ growth. Ready to make your parts department the standout leader this year? Start today and seize the chance to build a more substantial, efficient operation. About the Author: Chris Aiello is the Business Development Manager at TVH Parts Co. He has been in the equipment business for 19-plus years as a service manager, quality assurance manager, and business development manager. Chris now manages a national outside sales team that sells replacement parts and accessories in various equipment markets, such as material handling, equipment rental, and construction/earthmoving dealerships.

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MHEDA Presents TVH with 10th straight Most Valuable Supplier Award

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 16:08:29 +0000

TVH Americas has been awarded the MVS (Most Valuable Supplier) Award for its outstanding achievements in 2024 by their industry trade association, Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA). This achievement marks the 10th consecutive year that TVH has achieved the Award. The MVS Award is a coveted accolade within the industry, with fewer than 10% of MHEDA’s member organizations earning this distinction. TVH’s continued recognition as a valued partner within the industry underscores a commitment to excellence, professionalism, and responsible stewardship. To qualify for the MVS Award, TVH was required to meet a series of criteria in a number of areas important to the companies who do business with them. In addition to confirming an ongoing commitment to safety and employee training, award recipients must provide documentation of active participation in a program that gives back to the community. MVS Award winners, have demonstrated an overall commitment to business excellence by documenting activity in the following areas: Industry Advocacy Distributor Advocacy Business Networking Continuing Education Business Best Practices “Receiving MHEDA’s Most Valuable Supplier award for 10 consecutive years is an honor that highlights the strength of our partnerships and our commitment to advancing the industry together,” said Lexi Anderson, Americas Marketing Lead at TVH. “We’re proud to continue to serve and grow with our valued partners as we move into 2025.” “The MVS is a prestigious honor within the material handling industry, recognizing excellence across a broad range of accomplishments beyond financial performance. Receiving this award reflects TVH’s exceptional leadership, commitment to industry best practices, active community engagement, and focus on continuous improvement. This recognition not only strengthens the company’s reputation within the industry but also fosters trust and pride among its customers and community, solidifying its role as an industry leader,” said Nate Storey, CEO & President of Storage Solutions, Inc. and 2025 MHEDA Chairman.

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California industrial distributor acquisition

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 15:52:08 +0000

Motion Industries, Inc., has announced its forthcoming acquisition of Thompson Industrial Supply, Inc. Thompson Industrial Supply, a family-owned and operated enterprise based in California, has been delivering industrial technology solutions for over 40 years and has garnered a reputation for its expertise and dedication to customer service. The acquisition, anticipated to be finalized by the end of February 2025, will broaden Motion Industries’ presence in California and enhance its capacity to serve customers in the region. Thompson Industrial Supply’s two locations and 45 employees will integrate into the Motion Industries network, and customers will gain access to a more extensive selection of products and services, as well as the support of a national distribution network. Thompson Industrial Supply specializes in an array of industrial parts and services, including bearings, power transmission products, fluid power solutions, and in-house fabrication services. This specialization complements Motion Industries’ existing capabilities and will enable the company to present a more comprehensive suite of solutions to its customers. While the current proprietor of Thompson Industrial Supply will be transitioning out of the business following the acquisition, other family members will remain with the company and continue to assume a key role in its operations. This ensures a seamless transition and continuity of service for customers. Motion Industries and Thompson Industrial Supply have conveyed enthusiasm about the partnership and the opportunities it affords for growth and expansion. The acquisition is projected to benefit both companies, as well as their customers and employees. Motion Industries will acquire valuable expertise and resources, while Thompson Industrial Supply will benefit from the support of a larger organization and access to a broader market.

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Motion to purchase industrial distributor in Hawaii

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 11:00:05 +0000

Strengthens service in Pacific market Motion Industries, Inc. signed a definitive purchase agreement to acquire the net operating assets of Maguire Bearing Company, Ltd., an industrial distributor based in Hawaii. The transaction is expected to close at the end of February 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. Maguire Bearing has served the Hawaii and surrounding Pacific Rim market since 1955, when it was founded by William H. Maguire. His son, John “Jackie” Maguire, is the current owner and will lead the transition. The company is headquartered in Honolulu with three additional branches in Kapolei, Kahului, and Hilo. To help customers extend their machinery and automobile life, Maguire Bearing offers a wide selection of brand-name repair products including bearings, couplings, v-belts, electric motors, hydraulic components, safety supplies, lubricants, and oil seals. Maguire said, “Motion has been a reliable supplier to Maguire for many years, making it an ideal fit for our employees and customers. We’re excited about the growth potential this partnership will create, providing customers an even broader range of solutions to ensure their machinery and vehicles run smoothly and efficiently.” “Along with its high-quality inventory, Maguire Bearing is highly regarded for its knowledgeable and approachable staff, who are committed to delivering exceptional customer service,” said James Howe, President of Motion. “This dedication aligns perfectly with Motion’s values and is one of the many strengths our companies share. We look forward to welcoming Maguire’s talented team and working together to grow our business in this key region.” Maguire Bearing has approximately 30 employees in the state of Hawaii.

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Chamberlain Group acquires Multi-Fab Products

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 14:49:57 +0000

Latest expansion will further accelerate growth Chamberlain Group (CG), has announced the acquisition of Multi-Fab Products and (MFP-Nova), a global manufacturer, distributor and reseller of loading dock equipment and associated parts. This acquisition will expand CG’s finished product portfolio and service parts offerings around the Dock Equipment space – creating another revenue stream for the growing business. “There are many product adjacencies between CG and MFP-Nova, and this acquisition will enable us to offer additional solutions to our customers,” said Erich Struckmeyer, Executive Vice President & Chief Product Officer at Chamberlain Group. “By adding MFP-Nova’s products to our existing portfolio, we’ll continue strengthening our position as a leader in loading dock equipment and intelligent access solutions.” Headquartered in Wisconsin, MFP-Nova will join the Chamberlain Group organization, with MFP-Nova President Bob Hensel joining the Product team’s leadership. “In addition to the product synergies, Chamberlain Group’s values were closely aligned to ours,” said Bob Hensel, MFP-Nova’s President. “We look forward to being part of the Chamberlain Group team and continuing to grow our business together.”

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NORD Direct Drive Systems outperform Belt Drives in efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 03:03:25 +0000

NORD Direct drive solutions offer an innovative alternative to traditional belt drives that deliver more outstanding performance, reliability, and lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). This updated wastewater direct drive solution from NORD replaces an outdated top motor mount system. It offers a more compact, user-friendly design, low maintenance, and operates with higher efficiency to lower overall energy costs. Two common types of drive solutions available on the market are direct drive solutions and belt drive solutions. With direct drives, the gear motor is directly connected to the load being driven and does not require additional connection components. Belt drives, in comparison, are offset from the driven load and require belts and pulleys to connect the two. They also often include a motor mount, sheaves, machine guard, and a torque arm, making them a more complicated setup than the gearbox, NEMA adapter, and motor combination of direct drives. The compact direct drives also provide higher efficiency, reliability, and safety features compared to traditional drive packages. Gear motors from NORD DRIVESYSTEMS are offered as parallel shaft and right-angle mounted direct drives for versatile installation according to application and space constraints. The gear units are manufactured with robust, one-piece UNICASE™ housings with all bearings and seal seats contained within the housing for additional protection and reliability. Bearing life is extended in this design thanks to the lack of radial loads on the motor shaft and the gearbox input shaft. NORD electric motors combine easily with their modular gear units and provide high-efficiency, high-output torques, and an ample output speed range across multiple frame sizes. Variable frequency drives extend these capabilities, providing precise speed control of the drive, reducing the number of system variants, and decreasing the quantities of spare parts backstock. Direct drive systems offer improved safety over belt drives as interaction with equipment is minimized, and the enclosed solution reduces the chance of injury. Belt drive systems require additional protection measures and resources to safeguard users from moving their parts. Belts also require adjusting or replacing multiple times per year, which can be dangerous if not appropriately handled by skilled personnel. Maintenance for NORD direct drive systems is significantly quicker, easier, and more cost-effective than belt drives due to fewer wear parts and modularity. If the motor needs replacing, the old motor can be uninstalled, and the new one can be attached and connected to power. However, motor replacement on belt drives requires the whole system to be unassembled before the new motor can be attached and the belt adjusted. Direct drive systems are more efficient than belt drives due to reduced mechanical friction and no belt tension reduction. Since they do not have belts, they do not require downtime to retain the belt, achieving greater system availability. In intralogistics systems that consume a lot of energy, such as conveyor operations, energy-efficient direct drives with premium efficient IE5+ synchronous motors significantly reduce energy costs and system variants thanks to their constant torque even at partial load and low-speed ranges.

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New Year actionable and proactive strategies that drive growth

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 06:00:42 +0000

Another January is upon us, and with it comes the opportunity to reflect on the year behind us and set our sights on what’s ahead. Cheers to the New Year! I hope that as you read this, your business and personal successes in 2024 have set a strong foundation for an even better 2025. Each January, we find ourselves looking at the challenges and opportunities facing our industry, and this year is no different. At the heart of it all, though, is providing exceptional customer service in the aftermarket—a topic that’s never out of season and always at the core of your business growth. Dealers I speak with are increasingly challenged to deliver quick, value-driven solutions to customers. Furthermore, they always seek actionable and proactive strategies to drive growth, enhance customer satisfaction, and adapt to industry trends. Here are some specific call-to-action items to consider as we head into the New Year: Optimize E-Commerce Platforms for Parts Sales Implementing an e-commerce platform for a forklift dealership can provide several significant benefits, including increased sales, 24/7 availability, and enhanced after-sales support. Most importantly, an e-commerce platform modernizes your dealership’s parts department, making it more customer-centric and operationally efficient. Enhance your e-commerce site with easy-to-use search and navigation, mobile responsiveness, and customer self-service options; this is essential for meeting the growing consumer demand for online accessibility. Make online purchasing seamless for your customers, streamline order processing, and expand your reach to a broader customer base. Dedicated Customer Account Page Creating dedicated customer account pages can revolutionize how you serve your key accounts by integrating parts, service, rental, and sales departments into a single, streamlined platform. These secure portals give customers convenient access to their order history, service schedules, rental agreements, and purchase records. By simplifying account management, you save customers time, enhance operational efficiency, and build stronger relationships. To implement this, consider investing in technology that integrates with your existing systems, creating a unified dashboard for customers. Today’s platforms are available in our industry that offer features like service reminders, real-time rental availability, and sales inquiries. Think of such a platform as a comprehensive tool for managing all customer interactions. Be sure you have a platform that offers mobile-friendly access and live support to ensure your customers can manage their accounts on the go, further increasing satisfaction and loyalty. This customer-centric tool will position your dealership as an indispensable partner to your customers, delivering value and convenience across all departments while fostering long-term growth. Personalized Reordering Alerts for Key Customers If investing in the technology mentioned above is not feasible for 2025, you can also consider this alternative, specifically for the parts department: make parts ordering proactive by analyzing which parts your top customers regularly purchase. Please set up an alert in your system to remind your parts sales professionals to reach out and offer to reorder these parts for them a month before they typically run out. This personalized service shows your customers that you’re paying attention to their needs and partnering with them to reduce their downtime. Forklift Tune-Up Checklist at the Parts Counter A simple forklift ‘tune-up’ checklist can be a highly effective sales tool for your parts counter personnel. When a customer comes in for a minor part, encourage parts counter staff to discuss the following with your customer: Ask about tire condition on the lift they are procuring parts for, and recommend replacement tires or a spare set to prevent downtime from wear. Ask about fork wear and suggest new forks or extensions to address cracks or bends that impact safety. This would also be a good time to upsell a ‘fork wear gauge.’ Ask the customer about their fluids, offer hydraulic fluid, engine oil, or a maintenance kit. For battery health, upsell maintenance kits, watering systems, or replacement batteries. Additionally, don’t forget to ask about lift chains and hoses and recommend replacements, repair kits, or lubricants, stressing the importance of the reliability of these items for the prevention of breakdowns. You could even offer this as a printed guide with your company branding for the customer to take back to their operation. This ‘tune-up’ checklist is an easy, low-pressure way to upsell parts, often resulting in additional parts or service business. Promote Remanufactured (Reman) Products It’s clear that circular economy practices aren’t just a passing trend. They’ve become a key part of the material handling industry’s evolution. Companies are increasingly adopting these practices to not only meet customer expectations but also reduce costs, enhance sustainability, and foster innovation. Remanufactured parts provide a cost-effective and sustainable alternative for many customers, making them an excellent option to promote at the parts counter or on service repairs. When a customer inquiries about an expensive or hard-to-find part, take the opportunity to suggest reman options. Highlight the significant cost savings these parts offer compared to new ones, assure your customers that reman parts meet OEM standards and come with warranties, and educate them on the environmental benefits of choosing a more sustainable solution. Promoting reman products supports cost-conscious customers and aligns your dealership with important sustainability initiatives. By implementing some of these action items, your dealership can make 2025 a year of growth, efficiency, and enhanced customer loyalty. These actions can make tangible improvements in your daily operations, providing your customers with the kind of proactive service that separates you apart from the competition. About the Author: Chris Aiello is the Business Development Manager at TVH Parts Co. He has been in the equipment business for 19-plus years as a service manager, quality assurance manager, and business development manager. Chris now manages a national outside sales team that sells replacement parts and accessories in various equipment markets, such as material handling, equipment rental, and construction/earthmoving dealerships.

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