Rebounding landscape industry yields questions on growth, management
Landscape contractors and equipment dealers say the industry is beginning to return to pre-recession conditions, writes Gregg Wartgow. The rebound could bring a change in pricing and management practices across the industry, Wartgow notes. "Both dealers and contractors, in many instances, have been forced to lower prices in order to compete. Now that demand [is] healthy again, will prices strengthen? Or, have consumers now been conditioned to this new level of pricing and discounting?" GreenIndustryPros.com
(5/9)
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Wastewater is transformed into lawn fertilizer at Ind. facility
Wastewater from sludge-holding tanks at the wastewater treatment facility in Greenfield, Ind., is being turned into fertilizer suitable for lawns and gardens. The facility's "Class A" biosolids undergo a rigorous treatment process to eliminate pathogens and to meet state and federal health standards. "The best thing about this is that it can be used to condition the soil," said Greenfield Wastewater Superintendent David Scheiter. Greenfield Daily Reporter (Ind.)
(5/9)
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U.S. wholesale inventories up, sales down in March
U.S. wholesale inventories were up 0.4% in March, but sales by wholesalers plunged 1.6% despite projections of a slight gain for the month. The inventories figure was boosted by cars and machinery, adding to evidence of strong economic growth in the first quarter. Reuters
(5/9)
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A good attitude attracts business for equipment dealers
To attract more customers, equipment dealers should take pride not only in their products but in their work, writes Lisa Danes. In this article, Danes notes that she recently agreed to have a 10-year-old girl mow her yard with a reel mower after she demonstrated her knowledge and skills. "As customers come into your dealership to make a purchase, remember that they are initially attracted to the products, but sold on the service behind them," Danes advises. GreenIndustryPros.com
(5/9)
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House bill would authorize debt prioritization
A bill passed in the House would authorize the Treasury Department to prioritize payments to bondholders if the government were to reach its debt limit. The bill is considered to have little chance of passing the Senate, and the White House has threatened to veto any such bill. "The president has been crystal clear, the era of anyone threatening default has to be over," said Gene Sperling, director of the National Economic Council. Politico (Washington, D.C.)
(5/9)
Senate aides brief financial analysts on immigration bill
Aides to Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., have been privately briefing some financial analysts on the progress of federal immigration law reform and its likely consequences for businesses and investors. The provision of potentially market-moving information to small groups of well-connected individuals is the latest example of the activities of "political intelligence" firms that are attracting increased scrutiny in Washington, D.C. Legal experts say what these people are doing doesn't violate any law. The Washington Post
(5/9)
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Sheep, goats make lawn care greener at Chicago airport
A herd of 25 sheep and goats will maintain the grass at inaccessible areas at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. This will eliminate the need for herbicides and save on costs, said Rosemarie Andolino, commissioner at the Department of Aviation in Chicago. "We've got some rocky terrain and some embankments that are harsh on our equipment. By putting in the goats, they're able to do the work and provide an eco-friendly way to meet our maintenance needs," Andolino said. Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, Ill.)
(5/8)
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OPEI Annual Meeting is June 18 to 20 in historic Williamsburg, Va.
We have two informative and dynamic business sessions planned. In addition, there will be several networking opportunities to connect with your industry colleagues. Williamsburg, Va., is a unique destination, rich in history and colonial tradition. This is truly a one-of-a-kind place where you can step back into history and experience the best recreation of the 18th century.
Hotel reservations are now being accepted at the Williamsburg Lodge. Room rates are $238 for Deluxe Room Category. Reservations must be made by May 10. Please contact the hotel at 800-261-9530 or 800-HISTORY between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Or, you can reserve online.
Plan to attend. Additional details will be coming soon. For questions, contact Marla Popkin at OPEI -- mpopkin@opei.org or 703-549-7600.
GIE+EXPO – Dealer Day Returns
The success of the 2012 inaugural Dealer Day at GIE+EXPO, Louisville, KY, is building. The show will be open exclusively to dealers, retailers, distributors and media on Oct. 23, 3-7 p.m. Seminars for owners and managers, technicians and rental dealers will be offered as well as a welcome reception on the show floor, 5-7 p.m. The indoor exhibits and Outdoor Demonstration Area will be open to all industry participants on Oct. 24-25. Exhibitors benefit when hosting pre-show meetings with dealers, retailers and distributors at the Kentucky Exposition Center. Space for pre-show dealer meetings will be complimentary with the exhibitor paying for room-set charges. Special catering prices will be available, and show management has set aside some special areas at KEC for controlled outdoor demos. See details here. Also see www.gie-expo.com. Info: 800-558-8767.
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Optimism is essential to achievement and it is also the foundation of courage and true progress."
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