LANDSCAPE AND OPE DEALERS

The framework for the best relationship between landscape pros and equipment dealers

By Glenn Hansen

In the dynamic world of landscape service work , the relationship between equipment dealers and professional users is a crucial partnership that goes beyond mere transactions . We dig into insights from industry experts and seasoned landscapers to understand the cultivation of this unique bond .

Local is key

“ We keep it as local as possible with the equipment dealers we buy from ,” said Robert Ponn , operations manager at Yellowstone Landscaping . “ As a nationwide service provider , we do have national relationships with manufacturers , but from a dealer perspective , we keep it local .” Yellowstone sets up accounts at dealerships with purchase orders , so work crews can go right to the local dealership and get what they need . Ponn said this streamlines service , makes for quick transactions , and grows a mutually beneficial relationship .

Even from the viewpoint of a wholegoods company national sales manager , local is vital . “ When we establish a national account ,” said Doug Suesseger , North American sales director at Husqvarna , “ we provide them a list of dealer contacts . And then

As a nationwide service provider , we do have national relationships with manufacturers , but from a dealer perspective , we keep it local .

ROBERT PONN OPERATIONS MANAGER , YELLOWSTONE LANDSCAPING we have conversations with our local dealers to make sure they have the products and services to support that branch of the landscape service provider .

Building relationships with major players like Brightview or Mariani

Landscape is a priority , said Suesseger , with a focus on converting procurement decisions to local dealers . These local and independent dealers are essential resources , said

Suesseger , especially considering the larger retailers lack service capabilities .

For a manufacturer like Husqvarna , there is a potential disconnect from a national account to local sales in a multi-brand OPE dealership . That ’ s why Suesseger emphasizes the impor-

20 OPE + March 2024 www . OPE-Plus . com