Photo: ManitouManitou Group says it is excited to introduce the new Manitou MLT 420 AG telescopic loader to its MLT product line-up for North America.
The company says the MLT 420 is the most compact Manitou telescopic loader in the product line, can navigate in confined spaces and offers all the advantages of a loader, telehandler and industrial forklift combined.
The company says the dimensions, just 58″ wide and 79″ high, makes it easy to work in confined spaces. Manitou says to not let its small size fool you, as it has a maximum lift capacity of 4,400 lbs. and a maximum lift height of 14 feet 4 inches.
Although compact, Manitou says the MLT 420 has a full size operator cab for comfort and full 360-degree visibility. The company says the machine is easy to operate, and a two-speed hydrostatic transmission with directional and gear change on the JSM (Joystick, Switch and Move) adds flexibility and precision.
Manitou says the JSM joysticks allow the operator to control all hydraulic functions with one hand, so the other hand can remain on the steering wheel at all times for added safety. The company says the MLT 420 is also equipped with a standard auto-reversing fan, which makes it ideal to work in dusty environments.
Manitou says a wide selection of attachments is available for maximum versatility, and the company says it makes it quick and easy to change hydraulic attachments with the Easy Connect System.
Manitou says the MLT 420 is currently in production and orders are now being accepted.
GIE+EXPO, HNA launch free online portal
Show organizers have launched GIE+EXPO ToGo, a free online portal that will connect industry members to the new innovations they would have found at the show this October.
Organizers say exhibitors are currently loading their information into the portal, which will go live in October and remain active through the end of 2020. It can be accessed via www.gie-expo.com and www.hardscapena.com starting October 1.
“As the industry adapts to our new business reality, manufacturers and suppliers are responding and looking for ways to stay connected to the thousands of outdoor power equipment dealers, retailers, landscapers and hardscape contractors they would have met at GIE+EXPO and HNA,” says Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) and managing partner of GIE+EXPO. “This year, GIE+EXPO ToGo will be that point of connection.”
On the portal, visitors will find:
- Exhibitor profiles for both GIE+EXPO and Hardscape North America that can be searched by name or product type
- A new product spotlight where exhibitors will launch their latest innovations
- Resources such as product specs, demo videos, special event links, brochures and more
- Exclusive special offers
Beginning October 1, visitors are encouraged to register for a free My ToGo Planner, which will allow them to save exhibitor listings, links and product information.
Organizers say it also provides access to show specials and discounts. Creating a My ToGo Planner will give attendees the ability to compile a must-connect-with list of exhibitors and to share saved exhibitors, products and contacts with colleagues.
“The My ToGo Planner will be the visitor’s ticket to some exclusive opportunities within the portal,” says Warren Sellers, show director. “Manufacturers and suppliers have indicated they will use this as a launchpad for their new products, and some are planning special offers. If you were looking forward to seeing new products and shopping for your company at the shows, you’ll definitely want to set up a free account and explore the portal.”
Looking ahead, Kiser and Sellers say their team is already gearing up to make the 2021 shows a dynamic and engaging experience for the entire industry next October.
SiteOne Landscape Supply announces virtual green industry forum
SiteOne Landscape Supply announced that it will host its Lawn Care Industry Virtual Forum on September 29, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. EST. Current and new customers can register for the complimentary event here.
“We are proud to partner with Marty Grunder, CEO of The Grow Group, for this one of a kind exciting event,” says Brian Rowan, VP, category management at SiteOne Landscape Supply. “Not only will attendees walk away with new insights — they will have opportunities to network with suppliers and talk with key experts to grow their business offering.”
SiteOne says the keynote presentation will show customers how to find and foster the indispensable team members, develop their skill sets, deepen professional relationships and promote how and when to delegate duties without abdicating responsibility. In addition to the keynote, SiteOne says suppliers will present 15-minute best practice topics detailing:
- Business building resources for lawn care operators, presented by FMC
- Setting a new standard for insect control, presented by Syngenta
- Pre-emergent weed control strategies in landscape beds, presented by Bayer
- Best practices for chemical applications, presented by BASF
- Post-emergent weed control strategies in lawns, presented by NuFarm
- The importance of resistance management and how to implement practices, presented by PBI Gordon
- Macroeconomic trends and its impact to lawn care, presented by Corteva
“We are appreciative for the sponsors that have helped to make this event come to life,” added Rowan. “Many CEOs and business owners look to these types of in-person events but, because of the pandemic, those aren’t happening. This event keeps businesses growing even during this difficult time.”
SiteOne says individuals that attend all live sessions will be entered for a chance to win 250,000 SiteOne Partner Program Points ($3,475 value) – redeemable for a variety of items such as trips, merchandise, credit on account and more.
ASV introduces sweepstakes to win 1-year Max-Series lease
ASV Holdings Inc. continues the excitement from its recent launch of the new Max-Series loaders with a chance at winning a 1-year Max-Series lease.
Photo: ASV HoldingsThe company says eligible contractors in the U.S. and Canada (excluding Quebec) who schedule and complete a demo or walkaround of an ASV machine at an ASV dealer will be entered into the “Win an ASV Max-Series Lease Sweepstakes” that kicked off August 1 and runs through May 31, 2021.
The company says the winner of the random drawing will be announced in June 2021 and will have the choice between the RT-65, VT-70 High Output or RT-75 Max-Series Posi-Track loaders.
“We’ve always said that you need to sit inside and operate a Posi-Track loader to truly understand and experience the difference,” says Regan Meyer, ASV marketing manager. “The launch of the Max-Series Sweepstakes is the perfect opportunity for industry contractors to visit an ASV dealer and see for themselves what sets the machines apart.”
The company says owners or operators of construction, agricultural and landscaping businesses in the U.S. and Canada (excluding Quebec) are eligible to enter to win the 12-month (up to 700 hours) lease and choose one of the new MAX-Series compact track loaders.
ASV says contractors enter by scheduling and completing a walkaround or demo of any ASV compact track loader or skid steer at an ASV dealer during the sweepstakes period. Following the appointment, the dealership representative will present a card with a unique entry code and instructions on how to enter.
Houzz opens 2021 scholarship program call for entries
Houzz Inc. recently announced the call for entries for the 2021 Houzz Scholarship Program, which supports the next generation of residential renovation and design professionals.
“It is important now, more than ever, during these uncertain times to support students looking to advance their education in home remodeling and design,” says Liza Hausman, vice president of industry marketing at Houzz. “These students have offered incredible perspectives on the future of how we will live in our built environments and we look forward to watching as they shape the industry in the years to come.”
In addition to submitting a brief essay on their design and architecture influences, Houzz says applicants are invited to create a Houzz professional student profile, where they can showcase their portfolio of work and network with more than 2.5 million active professionals around the world.
The deadline for 2021 scholarship entries is March 31, 2021. Learn more and apply here.
Karen Reardon named the 2020 Environmental Communicator of the Year
The Turf & Ornamental Communicators Association (TOCA) and Project EverGreen announced that Karen Reardon, vice president of public affairs for the Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment (RISE) is the recipient of the 2020 TOCA Environmental Communicator of the Year Award.
Karen ReardonThe award, which recognizes individuals for outstanding communications efforts regarding publicly managed green space and environmental issues, was presented during this year’s TOCA Virtual Conference. Reardon is the 22nd recipient of this award.
During her time at RISE, Reardon has been responsible for state and local issues management, regulatory affairs and communications. Her focus has been on sharing messaging regarding the benefits of specialty pesticides and fertilizers with policymakers, media, professional applicator partners and consumers.
Reardon led RISE’s public affairs programs “Debug the Myths” and “And not Or,” and regularly speaks to groups throughout the country sharing program insights and messaging.
She joined RISE in 2005 as director of communications after working a decade in stewardship and communications for CropLife America. Prior to that, she worked in the defense industry with TASC and The RAND Corp. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Hood College in Frederick, Maryland.
“Karen communicates naturally and effortlessly,” says Cindy Code, executive director of Project EverGreen. “She not only understands the issues inside and out, but she also listens to all views and responds appropriately. Karen is a hidden gem for the green industry, a tireless advocator and a friend we’re proud to recognize and honor with this award.”
