Hello, American Rental Association (ARA) Region One members.
The busy spring season is once again upon us, and it seems to have started a bit earlier this year than usual. That is good for all of us, and while we cautiously anticipate a positive season and year for our industry, there are — as always — some things to celebrate and some concerns to keep an eye on.
Many in the equipment segment had a strong winter with really good growth, and amid the supply chain tie-ups, equipment is still coming in from orders placed last year but were booked earlier. But sky-high gas prices are weighing heavily on equipment rental operators — it is requiring them to rethink their equipment pricing, surcharges and delivery charges.
Those in the equipment segment should be thrilled with the introduction of the new ARA Certified programs. These are a series of long-awaited certification programs covering essential training for mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) on both trainer and operator sides, as well as sales and service certification programs. Learn more about these incredible new programs inside this issue of In Your Region.
Over in the event rental segment, we are seeing reservations coming in earlier than in previous years. Wedding clients are going ahead and booking their events because they simply can’t afford to wait as venues and equipment quickly become unavailable. People are planning parties again, and that’s a good feeling. However, rental stores are being a bit more selective on events and not overbooking dates due to concerns about labor.
Across all rental segments, wages are still quite high, and people are needing to offer more to be competitive in the job market. That’s why we should all utilize the ARA Job Posting Portal to find people looking for work in our industry and to post job openings in our businesses. When posting your jobs, you can save money by using the five free 90-day job postings that ARA members receive — use the promo code ARA-5Free2022.
Not to get into politics, but remember that 2022 is a mid-term election year. On that end, I would ask that you consider joining ARAPAC, ARA’s political action committee. ARAPAC supports pro-business Congressional candidates — regardless of party affiliation. It costs nothing to join, and by joining you can stay updated on current issues facing our industry while supporting the cause of making the rental industry’s voice heard.
Here’s to a fantastic 2022 season!
Julie Creedon-Linton, CERP, ARA Region One director
Creedon & Co.
Worcester, Mass.
508-792-3100
julie@creedonandco.com