Hello, American Rental Association (ARA) Region Six members.
I have visited with many rental companies this winter, and the majority had a very profitable year in 2021. We are all still battling the staffing issue. For example, one company I spoke with normally operates with about 80 employees and they had only 35. Between the ARA Job Board, the consumer-facing national advertising campaign promoting rental and the scholarships available through the ARA Foundation, ARA is doing all it can to assist us.
The other challenge we all face heading into 2022 is the supply chain issue. All the manufacturers are doing their best to get us what we need but planning ahead is going to be the new norm for at least the foreseeable future.
Boosting the skills of your employees always is important. The ARA Foundation can help you achieve that and save you money, too, through its Employee Training Assistance Program. This program can pay for 50 percent of the costs associated with the types of training that will build your employees' skills and keep your operation competitive. ARA members may apply for up to $2,500 in assistance. Learn more by clicking here.
After 33 years in the rental industry, I have come to realize that every year we have challenges to deal with, whether it be theft rings, skyrocketing fuel prices, severe weather during tent season or governmental issues. We always get through it and come out stronger, and 2022 will be no different. We have a great association to support us and advocate on our behalf while we go about doing what we do best: running our businesses and renting our wares.
I look forward to seeing many of you in 2022 and, as always, if there is anything that I can do for you, please reach out to me.
Doug Haas, ARA Region Six director
Crown Rental
Burnsville, Minn.
952-894-7368
doug@crownrent.com