Kubota Updates Wheel Loader Lineup with New R540, R640 Models
Kubota Tractor Corporation’s next-generation wheel loaders, the R540 and R640 models, are available in both canopy and cab models and feature redesigned arms for better visibility to enable connecting attachments with the hydraulic coupler without leaving the cab.
Designed with landscape, residential and commercial construction operators in mind, the R540 and R640 wheel loaders will be available at dealerships beginning in March 2021. “Kubota dedicated a substantial amount of field research in the engineering upgrades that went into the new R540 and R640; they are built with operator comfort and productivity in mind,” said Patrick Baker, Kubota construction equipment product manager. “These new models have an incredible amount of space and power for a compact machine. Plus, with the enlarged front window and full-sized right-side window, they offer an unparalleled view of the worksite.”
Buyers Products Releases Line of Accessories for 3-Inch Hitch Receivers
A line of accessories for 3-inch hitch receivers has been released by Buyers Products. The new offerings include a reducer sleeve set, three sizes of forged ball mounts and a pintle mount.
“3-inch hitch receivers are gaining popularity in the market,” says Dan Doerr, towing equipment category manager at Buyers. “These high-capacity hitches require rugged accessories designed specifically for them. Our customers rely on us to be a one-stop solution for their upfitting needs, so we knew it was time to fortify our offerings in this emerging category.”
According to the company, the new ball mounts and pintle mount feature forged-steel construction and solid-steel shanks. This design gives the mounts a 21,000-pound and 30,000-pound capacity respectively. The reducer sleeve set lets users convert their receiver to 2-1/2 inch or 2 inch so they can still use their accessories designed for those receivers.
Additional products, including an adjustable multi-ball hitch, are slated for release in summer 2021.
Bowie Introduces Evergreen Bowie Sales as New Dealer in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan
Bowie Industries recently announced the appointment of Evergreen Bowie Sales as their new dealer in the states of Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio.
Based in Lambertville, Michigan with will-call locations in Walled Lake, MI, and Deshler, OH, Evergreen Bowie Sales is a subsidiary of longtime seed and hydromulch materials supplier Evergreen Seed Supply. The family business serves a wide range of industries including erosion control contractors, landscape contractors, residential and commercial construction, department of transportation, mining, landfill, pipeline, military, and wherever grass seed, turf propagation, erosion control, and sediment control products are needed.
“Brian and his team are well known and well-respected members of the seeding and erosion control community, and we’re excited to have them represent Bowie in this important area,” said Bowie CEO Dean Myers. “Evergreen has earned a reputation for top-notch customer service and support, with excellent products and the knowledge and expertise to apply them properly for best results. Their honesty, professionalism and consultative approach will serve our customers well.”
Award-Winning Landscaping Companies Merge to Beautify Utah Homes and Business
To meet demand for ongoing landscape maintenance, Stratton & Brätt recently merged operations with Elite Grounds, LC.
Both companies are headquartered in Pleasant Grove, Utah. Elite Grounds will handle all commercial and residential property maintenance while Stratton & Brätt focuses on design and building stunning commercial and residential landscapes.
“Utah showcases amazing red-rock desert and mountain canvases on which to create stunning personal paradises for folks flocking to the intermountain west,” says Zack Stratton, CEO for Stratton & Brätt. “Hundreds of happy corporate and residential clients pave the path to continuing quality work in the future. If you can dream it, we can build it.”
Stratton & Brätt is reportedly the largest, longest serving privately owned Utah landscaper recognized for large commercial and high-end residential projects. Conversely, Elite Grounds has a large maintenance portfolio including work in aquatics, residential, community and commercial.
“Elite Grounds has a strong team of industry leaders who understand not just the how but the WHY of landscape construction and maintenance,” states Steven Bingham, community manager for Desert Color Community Association. “Their team is thoughtful and strategic as they provide the highest quality landscape solutions.”
Industry Appointments and Awards
Belgard Contractors Receive Five 2020 Hardscape North America Awards
Five Belgard authorized contractors received Hardscape North America awards during ICPI’s special Virtual HNA education event.
- Western Outdoor Design & Build: Porcelain Paver – Residential Winner
- Pat O'hara Pavers: Porcelain Paver – Commercial Winner
- Reliance Home Services: Porcelain Paver – Commercial Honorable Mention
- McPlants: Segmental Retaining Walls – Residential Honorable Mention
- Rock N Roll Stoneworks: Combination of Hardscape Products – Residential – Size less than 4,000 SF Honorable Mention
A jury of industry experts selected a diverse and awe-inspiring group of projects based on product design, quality, compatibility and construction. The awards program reveals the highest level of detail from planning through project completion to produce exceptional results for project owners. The 2020 HNA Awards mark the fourth consecutive year of recognition for Belgard’s porcelain paver.
Home Turf Landscapes Names General Manager
James Stringer has been named general Manager of Home Turf Landscapes, a newly-created position within the eastern Virginia-based landscape management business. He will oversee day-to-day business operations at both the Tappahannock and Williamsburg locations that service a wide swath of the eastern region of the state including Richmond, Fredericksburg, and Newport News.
Takeuchi Hires Central Midwest Regional Manager
Clayton Whitesides has joined Takeuchi-US as its Central Midwest regional manager. Whitesides will manage all sales development and activity within that territory, which includes Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana and West Texas.
Zino named Gothic Landscape CEO
Gothic Landscape announced that Roger Zino, currently vice chairman of the company and veteran of the landscape business, has been named the CEO of Gothic Landscape. Jon Georgio, Gothic’s current CEO, will remain chairman of the board and continue to be active in focusing on distinctive customer relationships and the company’s family culture.
