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POLARIS LAUNCHES “ XCHANGE ” ONLINE MARKETPLACE , OFFERING NEW AND USED VEHICLES
“ Through Polaris Xchange , we are offering a one-stop , credible resource that makes it easier to not only find new Polaris vehicles but search through available used powersports inventory at our trusted net-work of dealers ,” said Vic Koelsch , chief digital and information officer at Polaris . Polaris has introduced Polaris Xchange , an online marketplace that puts customers in the driver ’ s seat as they shop for their first or next powersports vehicle . Built from the ground up with the needs of the powersports customer in-mind , the one-stop marketplace provides customers the ability to shop , research and start the buying process on thousands of off-road vehicles , snowmobiles , motorcycles , side-by-sides , auto-cycles and ATVs from participating Polaris dealers nationwide .
“ This is playing on what was already a trend . And frankly , the pandemic accelerated it ,” Koelsch told Star Tribune reporters .
With JoyDrive as a technology partner , Polaris Xchange will showcase used powersports inventory from all powersports manufacturers as well as available inventory of new Polaris vehicles at participating dealers .
“ We are constantly infusing new ways of thinking and using our knowledge of the powersports customer to help advance our industry , introduce new people to powersports and enhance the experience for our owners and riders , and Polaris Xchange is another example of that industry leadership ,” said Vic Koelsch , senior vice president , chief digital and information officer at Polaris . “ Polaris Xchange simplifies the shopping process for customers , allowing them do most of the process online before visiting their local dealership to sign the paperwork .”
Shopping habits have evolved in recent years with more consumers leveraging online resources for discovery , research and learning as they start the buying process prior to visiting a physical retail location . Powersports consumers are no different .
Polaris Xchange offers consumers the tools they need to feel confident during a convenient buying process from the comfort of their homes . The platform allows consumers to find a vehicle , view used vehicle history and condition reports , shop for accessories , indicate interest in protection products , determine trade-in value and prequalify for a loan . From there , the customer completes the purchase and will then pick up the vehicle from a dealer or have it delivered .
Polaris Xchange also provides value to Polaris dealers who can publish their new and used inventory online , increasing visibility , reach and awareness to shoppers .
HORIZON DISTRIBUTORS NOW CARRIES ALTOZ OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT Altoz has announced that Horizon Distributors – a distributor of landscape and outdoor power equipment with more than 85 locations across 12 states – now carries the Altoz product line . The initial launch will take place in 10 of Horizon ’ s stores , and Horizon has plans to expand that reach .
A wholly owned subsidiary of Pool Corporation , Horizon distributes outdoor power equipment , turf irrigation products , fertilizers and allied products throughout the western , southwestern and southeastern United States . The company distributes major national brands and landscape maintenance products under its proprietary TurfGro brand .
“ We are excited they have chosen to provide Altoz zero-turn mowers and outdoor power equipment to their customers ,” says Karl Bjorkman , Altoz sales and marketing director . “ The advantages and benefits that Altoz products have to offer over traditional equipment will benefit their customer base .”
Toley McGettigan , power equipment product manager for Horizon , says : “ We are excited about teaming up with Altoz outdoor power equipment . The unique features and benefits of the Altoz outdoor power equipment line allow us to not just expand our product offering , but also drive new project opportunities for our maintenance customers .”
STANLEY BLACK & DECKER ANNOUNCES CHANGES TO MANUFACTURING , LOGISTICS NETWORK Stanley Black & Decker , the parent company of MTD and Excel Industries , has announced that it will transfer its operations in Cheraw , South Carolina , to its facilities in Jackson and Gallatin , Tennessee , and that it will discontinue operations in Fort Worth , Texas . The company reports that these actions will impact 175 employees at the Texas facility and 182 employees in South Caro-
6 OPE Business April 2023 www . OPEBusiness . com