Border Fence

The border fence between the USA and Mexico has been covered quite a bit in this newsletter recently.
There is a story today about how the big defence contractors will reap millions of dollars from this.

Keeping partison politics out of this, it, and not taking sides on whether or not it is a good idea, here are some "Questions of the Week":

1. Do you think you, the fencing industry, will benefit from the construction of such a fence?
2. Is there likely to be work for the small fence contractor?

Let us know what you think.

- Gene

Selling to DIYs

There is a story today about someone being fined for not having the proper fence around his inflatable pool. In the past we talked about the potential public relations opportunity with these kind of pools. A chance to talk about the importance of a good fence around all pools etc.

But it got us thinking. Obviously no one will spend thousands of dollars to protect their $200 pool. But they might spend $100.

So the question is, do you sell to do-it- yourselfers? Is it an important part of your business? Do you give advice?

Let us know?

Government Licensing

There are a couple of stories today about governments getting involved… one on a push that would require all pools to have fences and other safety devices. Obviously this would be a big boon to fence contractors. Another story is about a fence contractor in Massachusetts whose customers are compiling a series of complaints against him. Apparently fencing contractors in Massachusetts do not have to be licensed. The story reads:

... isn't the only problem here. Our investigation has found that fence contractors do not have to be licensed in Massachusetts. "It's a grey area, I would say," said Rob Anderson, of the Massachusetts Board of Building Regulations and Standards.….”

Stories like this hurt all contractors; it makes consumers cautious and look for reassurance. Obviously, getting licenced is a pain, but there are benefits in the eye of the consumer. So here is the question of the week.

Does your state require fencing contractors to get licenced? Would you rather there was no requirement for a license? Don’t forget to say which state your in.

Just click on the comments section below and let us know what your thinking.