Tuesday, November 04, 2008

Presidential Vote?

A very un-scientific poll.

Who did you, (or will) vote for today for president?

Just curious as to whom the fencing industy wants as president.

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Credit Crunch

Looking at the headlines, it's pretty obvious we're in the midst of a serious credit crunch. There are many articles mentioning the affect on small businesses, Small-biz advocates worry about access to credit , and Credit squeeze tightens for area small business to highlight just two out of thousands of articles. There are many things that will affect us all now and in the future. Obviously, if homeowners can't finance their home improvement projects that will have some serious consequences to all contractors.

But what's happening right now? How is the current credit crunch affecting your day-to-day running of your business? How much credit do you depend on?

Let us know.

Tuesday, June 03, 2008

Green Selling

Green is red hot!

There was a release last week from SecureUSA about green pollution free anti terrorist vehicle barriers. Another story today about US Fence winning an award for waste reduction. Being green, besides just being the right thing to do, has some obvious public relations benefits.

Consumers are obviously looking more and more to environmentally friendly products, in many areas. Some have obvious paybacks, being more fuel efficient has a payoff in the wallet. But unlike other areas, a "green fence" doesn't have the obvious immediate payback.

Our question is; Is it coming up with your dealings with your customers? Are people asking about how "green" your various selections are? Are you selling "green"?

Let us know.

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Stolen Fences

There are a couple stories this week about fence material being stolen and sold for scrap. It begs the question, if a fence is meant to secure something, how do secure the fence?

I know this is a serious issue, with the price of scrap metal at all times high. Have you been a victim of theft of materials? What type of preventive measures have you taken?

Let us know.

Tuesday, May 06, 2008

Gas Prices

Gas prices are rising to new levels, (no kidding). I was just wondering how or if you are changing the way you do business because of it? Do you plan your day a little different now? Do you charge for estimates now? Are you looking for more fuel effecient trucks? Any ways you have changed due to the high cost of fuel?

Let us know.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Delgard Fencing

There is a story appearing in the Philadelphia Inquirer today about the parent company of Delgard fencing filing for bankruptcy protection.

They actually have a large investor already to get them through this patch. As the story said, "Chief executive officer Stephen Grabell said "it's 'business as usual' for workers and customers during the reorganization." (Company Press Release 3/19/08)

With this news coming on the heals of all the news from Wall Street, I want to open this up for feedback. Are you worried? Last week there was a story (Fence, Deck & Rail Market Recovers Slowly From Double-Digit Decline in 2007) on how things are poised for recovery.

What do you think this year has in store for you and the industry?

Tuesday, March 04, 2008

Invisible Fencing - turns 35

Invisible Fencing is celebrating their 35th anniversary today. I always looked at Invisible Fencing as a competitor to the fence contractor, but I'll be honest, I never asked.

What do contractors think of these pet containment products. There are pros and cons, personally, as an owner of two dogs I have found many arguments against.

But what do you think as a professional? Competition or an opportunity? There was a homeowner who was working with a fence contractor who actually incorporated the invisible fence into a traditional fence. See post here. Do any of you offer this? Do you find yourself selling against Invisible Fencing? Let us know.

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

FenceTech Influenza (Flu)

I was talking to Rick at L&C Enterprises today. He came down with a nasty case of the Flu while he was out in Vegas. Apparently, so did a lot of people.

What ever happen to "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!" I guess it doen't apply to the influenza virus.

Did you come down with the FenceTech Flu? Let us know, (but keep your distance).

Tuesday, January 08, 2008

OOOOPS!

There's a story in today's FenceWeek about a crew hitting the main oxygen line to a hosipital. It goes without saying that you should always call before you dig. But, do you have any of your own "ooops!". Not just digging mistakes but any jobs you wish you did differently. Remember you can answer anonymously

Wednesday, January 02, 2008

A New Year - 2008

2007 was an interesting year. With the slow down in the housing market all the trades felt the pain. What do think 2008 has in store? Are you optimistic? Let us know what you think. Take are poll at the right.