From the CEO – A Message from Richard Hunter, October 2004

Another busy irrigation season is drawing to a close.

For some, it’s been a busy year filled with new projects and new customers. For others, the unpredictable factors of weather and local economies have cramped their ability to grow. But, for everyone, the key to the slower winter months ahead is the same: step back from the stress of the prior season and begin to make some commitments to take specific actions to get ready for the New Year.

All right, so what can you do?

You’re probably most concerned with finding ways to increase revenues and be more efficient on the job site. Accomplishing this can be easier than you thought. Go to lunch with suppliers. Check in with your accountant and banker. Meet with your Hunter representatives. These people are a wealth of information for feedback on what your company is doing right in the market and what things you can improve.

Speaking of being more efficient, now’s the time to learn about water conserving products. There’s only so much water to go around, and we need to use it wisely. Take a look at our “Proven Water Saver” line of products that covers all aspects of irrigation, and consider the benefits of central control’s water management services to your customer base.

You should also find out what new tools and products are available to get jobs done more quickly. Attend a trade show or industry association meeting. Better yet, participate in one of Hunter’s contractor conferences or courses.

By the way, these courses are just one of the ways to put the Hunter Preferred Contractor Program to work for you. Don’t let the points you’ve accumulated go to waste. Put them to use in helping you build your business.

How about using this off-season to find new ways to promote your business? We at Hunter are ready to help, with a wide array of handy items. Yard signs to showcase your name at the latest job site. Postcards and door hangers to attract potential new customers or gain additional work from current ones. And a CD that answers homeowners’ frequently asked irrigation questions.

And don’t forget to plan for the increased costs likely to hit your business as the dual effects of inflation and fuel prices take their toll. You’ve seen prices of commodity items like fuel and PVC pipe rise. Plan these higher costs into your pricing structure for 2005. But be sure to show customers evidence of your increased costs and your need to maintain profitability.

Oh, there’s one more thing you can do. Take a moment and let me know your thoughts on Hunter products and how we could better meet your needs. After all, every product enhancement we’ve made and new product we’ve introduced has been the direct result of input we receive from people in the field…people just like you!