I always enjoy delivering and setting up four foot wall assortments of Mark’s Choice & Trail Blazer products at Home Hardware stores.  Just like the one I set up this week at  Hantsport Home Hardware.  This store has been serving the Hantsport and surrounding area in Nova Scotia for over 40 years and is proud to be “locally owned and operated”. Locally owned and operated businesses are very valuable to their community and are a business the whole community is proud of.  Tom & Dena Miller are proud to be known for “Small Store, Big Service ” and from what I saw this week, they had people coming in non stop from consumers to contractors and they knew every one’s names!! They offer a full line of Home Hardware products including lumber, doors, windows, and for the yard … Mark’s Choice and Trail Blazer yard & garden tools.  Let’s not forget the painter who needs the Premier Professional Paint Poles made by Trail Blazer and much more.

I am excited delivering Trail Blazer products to Fraser’s Pro Home Centre.  Fraser’s a TIM-BR MART dealer and part of a buying group with over 700 locations across Canada.  We have a vendor number making our products available to all 700 dealers.  We look forward to growing with TIM-BR MART.

When I delivered to Fraser’s & set-up Hantsport I visited Home Hardware in Berwick, Greenwood, Kentville, Lower Sackville & Wolfville to offer in-store demos … and The Trail Shop to offer any service needed.  I visited Home Hardware in Memramcook, Moncton, Oromocto, Riverview, Sackville, Saint-Antoine, Salisbury & Sussex to give warehouse #s for our Snow Shovels on my way to Fredericton, where I had an in-store demo at Kent’s Saturday and learned hanging baskets are a popular mother’s day gift.

Last week I checked in-house orders and; sales projections for May were reached & production & shipping ensured delivery.  At that time I had also received enough orders in house to cover 48% of June’s projections … Now you can see why I have visited so many stores this week!!

This week started with a very special birthday celebration for my angel & youngest daughter, Victoria, who became a teenager this year.  The celebration started with Victoria, her big bother Travis & I going to the mall.  You ask why the mall?  Travis & I brought her to build-a-bear, she’s still my little girl (I gave Dawna the bear I made), followed by getting her ears pierced, which she has been wanting for a long time. After the mall, we picked up Mom & big sister Natalie to go out for tacos at Mexicali Rosa’s followed by a walk through the Public Gardens in Halifax.

The night before her birthday, my parents had a private birthday party when they had Victoria and her friend Madison (who paddles with her) over to their place for a sleep over.  I really don’t know what happened there but I do know both girls came home with big smiles and said they had a wonderful time.

Robert Woodman, our operations manager & I joined the CME for a two day best practices mission through Richmond County’s ocean industry.  Showcasing local innovative businesses situated on the Cape Breton side of the Strait of Canso, bordered on the south by the Atlantic Ocean & on the north by the Bras d’Or Lakes.  Their rural based businesses are embracing new technologies that allow them to compete in the global markets.  We enjoyed great tours at Clearwater Seafoods & Lobsters “R” Us showcasing the Lobster industry. We saw a world class training facility at NSCC Nautical Institute. The tour at Petit de Grat Packers showcased an impressive crab leg prosessing plant & the ladies at University of St. Anne taught me how lobsters & crabs are born … not the same as the birds & the bees.  We were also treated with a lobster & crab legs for dinner followed by great Cape Breton entertainment.

Everett Titus, marine superintendent with A.F. Theriault & Son Ltd. was with us in Richmond County.  I learned they have a Benjamin Moore paint store and use extension poles when building & repairing boats.  I look forward to my trip to Meteghan River and present our Nova Scotia made poles.

Looking back, May 15th, 2011

One Year Ago, we attended the Hardware Show in Vegas.

Today, we stayed home to re-structure and develop new products

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

During my store visits, I received orders from Hantsport Home Hardware in Hantsport and Sissiboo Home Hardware in Weymouth Nova Scotia.  Hantsport ordered our Mark’s Choice / Trail Blazer pruning assortment for a four foot wall space while Sissiboo ordered the same pruning assortment for two complete three foot, end aisles displays.  I had a great meeting when I visited Blomidon Nurseries in Wolfville.  I met with Andrew Palmer, the general manager and we discussed future plans for their café.  We also talked about new product ideas for Trail Blazer Products.  Soon when you visit Blomidon Nurseries in Wolfville, Nova Scotia and you take the time to enjoy a bite to eat in their café, you’ll also be able to enjoy a pint of beer or a glass of wine.  I look forward to my product demos there … beer & sharp objects together!!

While I was on the road & visiting our valued dealers, Monica Furlotte received an order from another valued dealer … Fraser’s Pro Home Centre.  Fraser’s offers four locations to serve you in Berwick, Bridgetown, Kentville and Kingston Nova Scotia.  I look forward to visiting their locations to discover more ways we can service them better.

This week started with a very special birthday celebration for my beautiful & sporty wife Dawna.  Not a large celebration, just the immediate family sharing their love for their daughter-in-law, mom & of course, wife.  My mom prepared a fabulous rib dinner to celebrate this extra special occasion when Dawna turned Sporty … I can’t say her age.  The following morning she received a wonderful surprise as our youngest daughter, Victoria, served her breakfast in bed … A very nice and thoughtful birthday present.  Later that day we continued to stay together as a family (something we should do as often as possible) and participated in Dawna’s favorite activity … grocery shopping.

The spring birthday madness is almost over, my princess Natalie on March 11, my Mom’s on April 8, my Dad’s on April 12, my brother Patrick was on April 19, my son Travis on April 21 and Dawna’s on April 29. One more, this weekend we celebrate my youngest daughter Victoria becoming a teenager … Yes my angel is turning 13!!!!

This week, I worked on a new product to complement our yard & garden equipment. I completed two proto-types and visited with Russell Metals in Halifax to discuss material choices.  I will visit 4 more manufacturing partners before making material selections & discuss other new product.  I hope to visit Burnside Sheet Metals in Dartmouth, MacKenzie Atlantic in Musquodoboit Harbour, Nu-Air in Windsor, Nova Scotia and Ulbrich Stainless Steel and Special Metals in Connecticut.

Now that I’m spending more time on new product development, I look forward to putting some extra time towards new saws, knives & hatchets for the outdoors industry where Curtis Levangie (My Dad) began with Trail Blazer’s first product, the Take-Down Buck Saw.  A product that is still popular today in over 40 countries.

At the office, we continued to address financial performance & eliminate unfavorable gaps.  After 2 successful months in Feb & Mar, we anxiously wait for the final numbers for Apr, to see if we’ll be celebrating a successful quarter … And there will be a celebration!!!  Despite celebrating required profits, we still must keep focused on our gaps in shipping expenses and find ways to be more efficient in that department.  Also lower the amount of discounts we offer … wouldn’t you say Trail Blazer products are worth every cent with its unconditional life-time warranty?

I am pleased & proud to say that the sales projections for May have been reached … now it is in the production & shipping department hands.  I have also received enough orders in house to cover 48% of June’s projections … So I guess that means I still have some more work to do.  Do you know any stores that need paint poles?

Looking back, May 7th, 2011

One Year Ago, we experienced severe price increases on raw materials.  Including metals, plastic, fabric, packaging and of course freight.  I flew to Atlanta for meetings with Home Depot.  My youngest daughter Victoria, my Angel, turned 12 years old.

Today, we continue improving margins after last year’s price increases on raw materials. We concentrate on servicing independently owned hardware stores and specialty retailers versus box stores.  My youngest daughter Victoria, my Angel is turning 13!!!

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

We are offering In-store demonstrations for our local dealers in the Maritimes, just like the demonstrations you see performed at large retail locations, such as supermarkets, discount stores, or in shopping malls.  The products that are promoted at in-store demonstrations may be food and beverages, food preparation equipment, housekeeping products, personal care items, or occasionally other types of goods … In our case, Trail Blazer’s top selling products available at the maritime location we’re demostrating in.  Our in-store demonstrations are being done by employees from our manufacturing facility in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.  Most of them are not trained to seek out customers likely to buy the products or sales of any kind … but they know details about how the product is built & operates.

Betty Millard manages our shipping department and is demonstrating at Kent’s in Moncton Saturday & Dartmouth on May 12.  I’m demonstrating at Kent’s in Halifax Saturday, Fredericton on May 12. I’m joining Mark Cullen at Home Hardware in Barrington Passage on June 22 and Home Hardware in Weymouth on June 23.

We introduced our Reverse-D Handle Snow Shovels at the Home Hardware Spring Market, which features a handle turned 90-degrees so that it’s perpendicular to the shovel face.  The sideway configuration provides a better grip, leverage & the wrist doesn’t bend!!  This takes the strain off your wrist to allow your forearm to do most of the lifting.  We 1st received rave reviews about the Reverse-D Handle from farmers and decided to create a snow shovel with the same feature.

We are known mainly as a manufacturer of yard and garden equipment and saws, knives & hatchets for the outdoors.  I noticed most of our products were removed from retail shelves in the winter to make way for the new season.  Now with our Reverse-D Handle Snow Shovels, Trail Blazer is able to offer you products all year-round.

During the Home Hardware Spring Market I had opportunities to discuss future product ideas with different dealers from across Canada, other vendors & the fine folks with Mark’s Choice Ltd including Brenda Hensley. I will start working on her ideas right away … Thank you Brenda, your always great to work with.  This year I received feed back for an idea to complement our yard & garden equipment that I am very excited to start working on right away.  I also received suggestions on three completely new products including one that would complement our Reverse-D Handle Snow Shovels.

I’m now scheduling time for new product development and look forward to putting some time towards new saws, knives & hatchets for the outdoors industry where Curtis Levangie (My Dad) began with Trail Blazer’s first product, the Take-Down Buck Saw.  A product that is popular today in over 40 countries.

Looking back, April 30th, 2011

One Year Ago, spring definitely arrived because our stores were ordering more products because their initial supply was sold out.

Today, spring products have been delivered to the stores but where is spring … we’re still receiving snow in places

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

Home Hardware is Canada’s largest independent hardware retailer with over 1,000 stores.  The retailers walk the aisles at the markets to see what’s new from vendors (Like Trail Blazer).  They have access to over 100,000 brands & private label products. We’re one of those brands & participate in 2 of the private labels (Mark’s Choice & Premier Professional).  This year were introducing our new warehouse numbers for the Reverse D-Handle snow shovels.

I’d like to thank Ben for sending me this link to PedalTrout, for people in Atlantic Canada who live, breathe, eat, sleep & fantasize about cycling on the trail, road, at the jumps or parks.  PedalTrout is great to post a ride, promote an event and find riding buddies. (http://www.pedaltrout.com/forum/topic/657/page/1#3809)

This week started with my wife Dawna going into surgery. I spend Monday with her before hitting the road.  I’ve traveled before but leaving Dawna behind this time was extra tough. I’m pleased she is home now recovering after 2 nights in the hospital. I’m also pleased she is not alone and has the extra support from her mother, Diane, staying with her and frequent visits from friends & family.  Dawna, I wish you a speedy recovery and can not wait to get home to you next week … I Love You very much!!!

There is another thing happening at home this week, while I’m on the road. Today my family gathers to celebrate Travis’s, my son’s, 17^th birthday.  Happy Birthday Buddy!! Love you & see you soon!  I mentioned this before but it’s worth mentioning again.  This month Dawna will be turning Sporty … I can’t say her age.

Back at the office, I would like to offer my congratulations to my valued team for receiving this wonderful testimonial

“I am very happy to report that the spare parts for my neighbor’s Xtend-A Saw arrived intact on Good Friday, 4/6/12.  About 5 minutes after getting the mail, I had the saw back in perfect working order.  I did take the time to put a drop of Loctite on the screw threads so this should never happen again.  You guys are fantastic!  Support like your company demonstrates is very rare nowadays.  I commend you.  Thanks again.  I’ll be sure to shop for your products in the future. “

You should experience increases in response time to our valued customers. With the addition of Justin Caldwell, there will be someone answering the phone at all times plus responding to e-mails within 24 hours.  He will be assisting Monica with customer requests & Ben with purchasing requirements.  Welcome Aboard Justin!!!

Looking back, April 22nd, 2011

One Year Ago, Travis turned 16, a birthday where you say wow where did the time go!! It was a quite week around the office, with members of our team on vacation, including Dave in Cuba & Kelli in Mexico.

Today,Travis turned 17, a birthday where you say wow didn’t he just turned 16!! I am traveling to stores assuming Dave’s position in sales & Kelli’s position has been filled by Justin. Wow, there vacations must have been good!!

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

Miramichi Paint & Décor is a Benjamin Moore independent retailer.  Benjamin Moore began in 1883 in Brooklyn, New York … The same year the Brooklyn Bridge was completed.  The Canadian company was established in Toronto, Ontario in 1907.  Benjamin Moore was elected president at the first shareholders meeting and Fred Moore, Benjamin’s half brother, became the first Canadian residing president in 1937.  This laid the groundwork for what is now Benjamin Moore & Co., Limited.  The operation flourished and warehouses were opened in Montreal, Halifax, Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon and Vancouver.  The Vancouver shipments from Toronto were sometimes shipped via the Panama Canal, an all water route of 8,500 miles.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Bill Towndrow with BMR Hardware in Lunenburg Nova Scotia.  I’m proud he offered us an end cap in his store and thankful for his generous words about Trail Blazer Products, posted in their blog on April 2^nd (http://www.lunenburghardware.com/2012/04/02/trail-blazer-products)

This week started with two birthday celebrations plus Easter … Busy day!!  My wife Dawna & I invited my Mom, Joan, & Dad, Curtis, to our home & celebrated both their birthdays and enjoyed Easter.  Dawna prepared a tremendous turkey dinner while my daughter, Natalie, prepared a delicious birthday cake for her Mama & Papa.  My mother’s birthday was that day, Sunday April 8^th, and my dad’s was, Thursday April 12^th.  It is days like this when families feel the closest andI look very much to the next family celebration.  April is a very busy birthday month in the Levangie family.  As you read above my Mom’s is on April 8^th and Dad’s is on April 12^th. But that’s not enough because my brother, Patrick, was on April 19^th, my boy, Travis, is on April 21^st and Dawna’s is on April 29^th.  This April is extra special because Dawna is turning Sporty this year … I can’t say her age.

This week, I had a lot of fun on you-tube with Travis, my son.  He provided the technical support needed. First I got the opprtunity to go down memory lane as I looked through many pictures to use on a video we made for you-tube.  If you have a chance to look at the video, you will see some pretty old ones and proud ones from the start of the company.  Then I started to listen to song after song to pick for the background music. I ended up going in the direction that shows the pride I have in Canadian manufacturing.

I will have to acquire Travis’s services and technical expertise again in the future.  I would like to prepare some more videos.  This time the videos can show some product demonstrations and operating instructions for Trail Blazer products.  This would be fun and very handy for customers to learn more about the Nova Scotia made tools.

Back at the office, Monica is working Full Tilt!! Despite this, she’s still having delays in returning customers calls.  It’s great that the demand for Trail Blazer products is keeping her busy, but our customers deserve immediate customer service.  That’s why I met with Justin Caldwell and offered him a new position within our company.  Having Justin working in the office will relieve time for Monica to improve customer service, Ben to focus on financial objectives and Robert to improve on-time delivery.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thank you and my excitement to Justin Caldwell for accepting the new position within our company.  I strongly believe Justin will make many great contributions to the office staff and to the future growth of Trail Blazer Products Limited … despite being a Hab’s fan.

Talk about the office staff, we continued to address our financial performance to eliminate any unfavorable gaps.  I reviewed the data that Ben presented last week, showing the negative effects that certain products have on our margins. Actions are being taken now to confirm his findings are correct.  Then Robert will be asked to explore any and all possibilites available to reduce the cost of these items, while maintaining the quality. Looking at the costing fully must be done before implementing any price increases.  Betty Millard, who runs our shipping & receiving department, has been so busy with shipping orders this season, she was unable to gather data showing the effects on how orders are boxed can affect our freight expenses. Betty has hired help in the shipping department, who will begin first thing Monday morning.

My focus on sales for April & May continued this week, I am pleased to say the sales projection for April has been reached, now it is in the production & shipping department hands.  I have now received enough orders in house to cover 92% of May’s projections … If this keeps up, I might be raising that goal.

Looking back, April 16^th, 2011

One Year Ago, I attended the Home Hardware Spring Market in St. Jacobs Ontario, where thousands of dealers were getting ready for the upcoming fall season.   I flew to Chicago for a series of meetings with Sears Holding Corporation.  Received news about my daughter, Natalie, report card … Straight A’s!!!

Today, I’ll be heading to the Home Hardware Spring Market in St. Jacobs Ontario, next week.   We’re producing the Craftsman Bow saw for Sears Holding Corporation in the United States.  I believe my daughters have received their report cards, but I have not seen them … Should I be worried!!!

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

For over 30 years Kent Building Supplies have been providing service, knowledge & products to Atlantic Canadians accomplishing building and renovation goals. They currently operate 34 locations across New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland Labrador & Prince Edward Island.  Each store in the four Atlantic Provinces have a Kent Atlantic Community Fund which focuses to sponsor non-profit events and registered charities that support the growth, development and wellness in their local community. Kent is proud to give back to the same communities where their store’s employees and customers live, work and play.

This week I was pleased to discover Wild Oak Farm, in Texas. This farm is dedicated to raising quality miniature horses … Cool!!!  I discovered them after they contacted us.  They were looking for a replacement blade for the Jumbo Ratcheting Anvil Lopper.  I love learning about new people and places that use Trail Blazer Products.

Back at the office, Ben Cumming & Monica Furlotte continue to help production achieve on time delivery … my Dad, Curtis Levangie, helps by coming back to product development and redesigning & improving the loppers & pruning saws.  Just like the beginning, when he developed the Take-Down Buck Saw to collapse and strap on to a snowmobile or all-terrain and again when he invented the Xtend-A-Saw, originally a sporting-good item for bow hunters. Then we noticed that it fit in the lawn-and-garden category, so we expanded around that product which is still one of the best selling products we have.

Having Curtis back in product development will provide new products that are made in Nova Scotia and help achieve the sales growth we’re looking for with our present distribution channels.  Like most father and son teams, I will only need to listen to his constructive criticism & guidance … and success will follow!!!

My entire family experienced great sadness this week, while we look at the important things in our lives like friends & family. Knowing that with people around us (that love us) things will always work out.  At times it’s hard to see that, like now with a heavy heart we remember my daughter Natalie’s friend and classmate, Olivia Jollota, who at the tender age of 15 years old passed away earlier this week.  Olivia … I will never forget the beautiful smile you shared with people every time I have seen you.  Survived by her mother Dale Jollota (long time friend of both Dawna & I, ever since our cadet days) and partner Tom Adams. By her father Scott Jollota and Partner Deb Williams.  By her brother Brandon, step sister Lilly (Both good friends with my other daughter, Victoria) & step brother Ethan.  By her Grandparents Sharon and Lonnie Pye plus Dale and James Jollota.  By her Uncle Dave, one of my best friends from high school, and aunts Vicki  and Barbi.

Olivia is yet another person from the Pye family who has had a very positive affect on me and my family. My thoughts go out to the entire Pye & Jollota families at this time (especially Mr & Mrs Pye, Dave & Dale).  I look forward to joining all of you, especially with my daughters Natalie & Victoria, tomorrow for the Celebration of Olivia’s life. 

Back at work, we continued to eliminate gaps.  Ben showed affects certain items have on margins.  I’ll review his data & suggest actions to be implemented.  Betty Millard continues to gather data showing effects certain boxes have on freight.  I’ll gather data explaining gaps in discounts & professional fees while Monica prepares production schedules to achieve on time delivery, when she’s not taking care of customers.

My focus on sales for April & May are still temporarily on hold this week, as I started looking at our gaps in administration expenses. I’m stepping in while Monica develops a production schedule to improve our on time delivery.  Next week I’ll be back on the road for 3 days presenting our Xtend-A-Poles in New Brunswick.

Looking back, April 9^th, 2011

One Year Ago, Monica Furlotte was officially offered and accepted the position of Customer Service Coordinator to restructure and improve our Customer Service Department … with an initial focus on;

1. Communication system keeping everyone at Trail Blazer informed about all customer’s purchase orders & extending this communication to reps.
2. Participate in weekly meetings to review present inventory levels, production schedules and communicate concerns early to reduce back orders.

Today, Monica has been in the position of Customer Service Coordinator for the past full year and continues to find new ways to restructure and improve our Customer Service Department.

1. Monica has successfully and will continue to keep everyone at Trail Blazer informed about all of our customer’s orders.
2. She participates in daily meetings (chaired by Ben Cumming) to review inventory levels, production schedules and achieve on-time delivery.

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

Lunenburg Hardware, like most hardware stores provide assistance with your home repairs and renovations.  They also maintain a complete marine section comprising of paints, boat repair material, charts and buoys.  When I saw the buoys hanging from the rafters, I received that welcoming Nova Scotia port town feeling that Lunenburg is very well known for.  Lunenburg Hardware is part of the BMR group of 187 independent stores in Quebec, Ontario and the Maritime Provinces.  BMR is the second leading banner in Quebec’s renovation industry.  Lunenburg Hardware is locally owned and operated by Bill and Margaret Towndrow who have been keeping the historic town of Lunenburg supplied with hardware and paint since 1989.  I am very happy to say they will now keep Lunenburg and surrounding areas supplied with Trail Blazer Products. 

I received word this week that Kent Building Supplies were looking at their line up of snow shovels for the next winter season … Right Now!!!  I am hoping to meet with them sometime next week to offer our Reverse D-Handle Snow Shovels and make them available in their 34 locations across Atlantic Canada.

Deana Kimber, Natalie Levangie (my daughter), Tyler Robinson & Meagan Valcourt competed against teams from NS. They used creativity & teamwork to tell an entertaining story about teaching social media to the elderly.  There performance was flawless & I’m proud of the obvious hard work they put into their preparations.  There were 4 categories, I’m not sure the names but theirs must have been … Ingenious!!!  My pride doubled as I watched them receive their category medals … First Place!!!

Later in the week, I learned they’re starting to fundraise so their team can travel to Knoxville, Tennessee and compete in the international competition.  They must raise the funds soon, the competition is May 23 to the 26.  Feel free to send any sponsorship support our way.  Did I ever tell you that I’m very proud of Natalie!

Back at work, we brought in more people to complete spring production of Mark’s Choice Loppers & Shears to put on Home Hardware’s truck Tuesday & ship across Canada.  The Take-Down Buck Saw & Sawvivor Saw orders will also be completed and shipped by Thursday (Friday will be Good Friday).  Then the focus will be Home Professional Paint Poles because Home Hardware will be featuring them in a flyer this May.  Plus we still have product to ship to Sears & Sam’s Club … south of the border. 

I receive some phone calls and e-mails this week from our valued dealers and distributors. They were looking for their products.  I am sorry when anyone has to make those calls so I am now back on the production floor to get us delivering products on time.  For those dealers & distributors who phoned & emailed me … Thank you.

This week ended with a wonderful retirement party and gathering at the Red Stag tavern in Halifax, Nova Scotia.  John Fanning worked 10 years with the federal government & 25 years with the provincial government.  More importantly, I enjoyed many trade missions to the United States with John. Missions where I saw the Ivy at Wrigley field for the very first time with John.  We also experienced tail gate parties together for a Toronto Maple Leafs hockey game in Raleigh, NC & a college football game … Wow!! A lot of people watch college football.  John, your support for companies has been exceptional, but you are much more than a colleague … You are a Great Friend!!!

When someone who is as liked as John Fanning retires.  It makes you look back and reminds us to remember that when we deal with the day to day challenges and opportunities in our busy businesses, don’t forget to take the time to treasure the relationships that were formed and remember the great stories you all created together.

Back at the office, we reviewed our financial performance for March to discover gaps we need to focus on in April.  In March, Ben started gathering data to show the effect each customer & product has on profit margins. This will be valuable moving forward.  Betty will start preparing data to show the effects on how the orders are boxed can unfavorably affect our freight expenses with the hopes of sending 2% straight to the bottom line.  We discovered unfavorable gaps in the discounts we offer and the professional fees we endure.  I will start working with Monica, when she’s not taking care of the customer service issues, to implement corrective actions this week.

My focus on sales for April & May were put on hold for a short time, as I started working with Robert to develop a production schedule and improve our on time delivery. While next week I will join my dad once again to meet with potential new suppliers in Nova Scotia who might assist us with our product development efforts.

A Look back, April 2^nd, 2011

One Year Ago, Keith Hendee, from Nashville, Indiana, was equipped with Trail Blazer products to attempt a solo canoe expedition in northern Ontario, on the Missinaibi River.

Today, when you visit www.missinaibi.ca you see pictures of Keith traveling to Ontario and pulling his canoe through the town … But none of him on the water or finishing?

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

At Palmer Home Hardware, the term that comes to mind is ”progressive” describing John E. Palmer Building Supplies. The family owned business has a history of keeping up with industry standards.  The company was founded by John and Margaret Palmer as a small outdoor sawmill and eventually expanded to include a small factory which made apple bins and boxes.  Years later the factory converted to making windows sashes and the company sold hardware as a small sideline.  Soon John and Margaret realized that the hardware sideline was growing and becoming more successful then making sashes, so they closed the factory and went full time into the building supply business in 1974.  Not only have John and Margaret managed the evolution of the company, they have also welcomed all three of their daughters as well as their spouses into the company fold.

We now have assortments in eight Co-op Country Stores, six Home Hardware Stores and seven Kent Building Supplies locations across Atlantic Canada, including the two most recent Home Hardware locations in Berwick & Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.  We will look for more locations to set up assortments in the coming weeks.

At Saulnier’s Home Hardware, the term that comes to mind is ”passion” to best describe this local store owned by Curtis Saulnier.  You genuinely feel that Curtis and his entire team love to be there & want to help you … Even first thing in the morning.  When you approach Saulnier’s Home Hardware there are large red letters covering the front of the store saying “Welcome Home” and when you enter you quickly learn why, and feel at home.  They are not only your one stop shoping locationin Yarmouth.  They are managed by Kent Scott and operated with knowledgeable (like all Home Hardware stores) and the friendliest staff you’ll ever find to help with any product questions you might have.  The folks in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia must be the reason why Maritimers have been given such a great reputation for their hospitality.

I received questions about our pricing from Ken Mosher with Oceanview Garden Centre in Chester, Nova Scotia.  So, I prepared price comparisons of local stores ensuring he gets competitive pricing & can compete with the retails offered by others.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank Ken for his interest in Trail Blazer Products.

This week started off with a Sunday, the same as every other week does!  Except this Sunday, while we were in church, I saw my oldest daughter, Natalie, on the altar giving the 2nd reading.  Normally I sit back in the pew and quietly take in the readings … and this week  I did the same with the added pride of watching Natalie read so clearly (I heard & understood every word), plus she did it with an incredible look of confidence about her, showing a natural born leader .  I was not really surprised because I’ve seen her do this many times before.  One time which comes to mind, especially after this event, was a family vacation to New Brunswick in 2007, when she jumped on the alter, during a museum visit and lifted all our spirits!!

Later in the week, she received a call from Barb Sullivan with our church, Blessed Pope John XXIII.  Barb was asking if Natalie would be available to read during Easter weekend … EASTER WEEKEND!!!!!!  Wow first time on the alter and she is already moving up to the major events.  Did I ever tell you that I’m very proud of Natalie!

Back at work, the production of the 24” Take-Down Buck Saw was delayed, while we wait for blade ends to be injected.  They will be back in production next week.  Meanwhile the production of the 24” Craftsman’s Bow Saw for Sears in the United States started.  We produce many private label / branded products like Home Professional extendable paint poles, Mark’s Choice in Home Hardware, Green Thumb in True Value & Sentier Chasse-Pêche promotion products.  I am very proud to say, when the production team is completed producing this run of saws, Trail Blazer Products Limited will be officially producing “America Most Trusted Tool Brand” … Craftsman 

Last week I wrote “spring production officially slowed down” … Boy was I wrong!!   I quickly discovered spring production is not complete, as we are still producing pruning equipment for 2012 and for companies like Sears, Home Hardware, Sam’s Club, Lee Valley Tools, Garrett Wade Company and Manufactum in Germany.

This week ended on very happy note … when my son, Travis, returned from Florida, despite a 2 hour flight delay that kept me up far too late .  Travis has been in Florida training for paddling during the last 5 weeks.  I am very proud of him and glad to have him home safe.  Well sort of home … the first night here he spent hanging with his good friend, Shawn Nickerson, at the mall!  Oh well, before he left us again, with a genuine excitement he passed out gifts to all of us first before leaving and he will be returning home in less than 5 weeks this time.  When he was here, my youngest daughter, Victoria gave him a picture that she drew & painted while he was gone away.  She did a great job!  Travis was so overwhelmed that he gave her a really really long hug and now their secret is out of the bag for everyone to know …  They both love each other very much!!

Later that night after their voyage to the mall.  Travis came home to give a gift he brought back from Florida to his good friend, Shawn Nickerson.  Then , like a flash, they were gone again to spend the night at Shawn’s place.  Did I mention I am very glad to have Travis home safe … Well close to home anyway!

Back at the office, February’s financials were distributed showing objectives achieved!  I’ve worked with BDC consulting to improve financial performance.  We’ve compared our performance to industry benchmarks and implemented corrective action in all areas showing gaps.  We’ve involved my team & developed a realistic operating model with a level of performance to April, that’s realistic & sustainable.

For May, we’ve started implementing actions to increase sales with the introduction of Trail Blazer’s new & improved cast end extension poles, for painters.  These paint poles will create sales during the summer months, when the spring tools have finish shipping in April and our fall products won’t start shipping till August.

A Look back, March 26^th 2011

One Year Ago, It was quiet in my office while I waited for the response from Menards, about their decisions on our Fall Pruning Sets.

Today, it is not quiet in my office & I’m not waiting for responses.  I’m going out to get responses …. while making a lot of noise!!!

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

When farmers, in the Mid-West United States, told me they’re getting sore wrists from shoveling grain & poop all day … I took a look at the grain shovel to create the Reverse-D Handle, which is turned 90-degrees & perpendicular to the shovel face.  Now the wrist doesn’t bend, and it allows your forearm to do the lifting.  I was excited when we got rave reviews in the mid-west.  I’m now excited again, our Nova Scotia made grain shovel is going to be offered in Co-op Atlantic’s flyer this spring.

I was visited by Bill Towndrow from BMR Hardware in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.  Bill is interested in our pruning tools and our various lengths of extension poles for painters.  Bill chose to visit us after Shelley Glover from Redmond’s Home Hardware recommended our products & service … Thank you Shelley.

This week started with a big celebration!! My Daughter Natalie turned 15 Sunday & we celebrated the big day during two special dinners.  The first was the night before at my parents when my mom served Natalie’s favorite meal, Lasagna … It was Great!!!!!  Sunday she spent her birthday at the mall, with her great friend Melanie Crain.  Dawna, her mom and my wife, provided a dinner of Natalie’s favorite finger foods when she returned from the mall … Ribs & Corn on the Cob.  I’m proud of Natalie who has high marks, great friends & works hard on her paddling goals.  Natalie brings much happiness to our family with a great sense of humor & I love her very much!

My son Travis has been in Florida for the past 3 to 4 weeks, training for paddling, and I was very pleased he not only took the time … but he remembered to phone home and to send wishes to his sister on her birthday.  Travis, Natalie & Victoria are the greatest kids any parent could ever ask for & I love them all very much!

The production of Trail Blazer’s founding product, the 24” Take-Down Buck Saw, formally known as the Trail Blazer Saw started again this week.  We started injecting our specially designed blade ends that provides you with the sturdiest collapsible saw on the market.  These blades will be added to the award winning aluminum tube saw after our production team cuts the tubing to length, punches the holes into the tubing, crimps a cap into one end of each tube and then assembles all five pieces into the tubular handle.  We will then be able to ship our original product to stores like Lee Valley in Canada, Manufactum in Germany, Lehman Hardware, True Value in the United States and various outdoor retailers across North America.  All are presently waiting for the much in demand product.  We have also been supplying our Take-Down Buck Saw to professionals – foresters, surveyors, loggers and contractors … for over fifteen years.

As the spring production officially slowed down and we prepare for our fall production … we laid off 2 workers this week.  Always hard, everyone at Trail Blazer is a valued part of our team.  As the tough decisions are made, I wait patiently for fall production to begin & would like to thank the 2 that were chosen for their support, while they were with us.

This week ended with me treating myself to a cold beer!! When I decided there was no better way to finish a hard work week … or treat myself.  I decided to stop by my local watering hole, Dave Doolittle’s Sports Bar & Grill, on my way home from work.  Nothing beats the atmosphere in a local sports bar!! While I was there, I ran into one of my high school friends Don Hartland.  Man … We created a lot of great stories back in the day!  We discussed the teenagers today versus how we were in high school and got caught up on what we’ve been up to.  It sounds like he has created a wonderful Home away from Home just one hour outside of Dartmouth.  Don, it was great seeing you and I look forward to catching up again sometime soon and checking out your camp & deck in Maitland, Nova Scotia.

It is always good to remember old friends and take the time to pick up the phone (or computer) and call them to talk about the good old days and learn what they’ve been up to.  Why not swing by there home to say Hi - Remember me?  As I write this, I know that I’m also guilty in letting the time fly by … But it is still good to remember.

We met with our consultant to discuss maintaining profits, in slow times.  Actions were determined based on financial objectives, armed with industry benchmarks & February’s financials.  It’s determined to increase sales of extension poles in slow months & decrease cost of goods by 2%.  Reduction in office staff plus decreasing professional fees, Insurance & discounts will cap off requirements needed to reach profits!!

I am very pleased to announce the arrangement between TD, Maple Trade & EDC came together this week and they were able to cover some of the working capital we have tied up in our inventory.  I am pleased to advise you that Maple Trade Finance has issued Trail Blazer Products Limited … Money, for our valued suppliers.

A Look back, March 19^th 2011

One Year Ago,I joined Jim Olles in Wisconsin where he was successful in getting our pruning products into Menards stores in 2009.  After I finished the meeting in Wisconsin, I flew to Ottawa to participate in a committee for the FITT (Forum for International Trade Training) Board of Directors.

Today, I reduced my travels & focused my sales meetings with independent Home Hardware Stores & Co-op Country Stores located here in Atlantic Canada. While I spend my non-sales time focused on assisting my team to improve the financial objectives we require to continue the growth of Trail Blazer Products.

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

We now have successfully set up our assortments of pruning tools and are ready for spring season in eight different Co-op Country Store, four Home Hardware Stores and seven Kent Building Supplies locations across Atlantic Canada, including the two most recent Home Hardware locations in Lower Sackville & New Glasgow, Nova Scotia.  We will look more locations to set up assortments of pruning tools in the coming weeks.  Payzant & ProudfootHome Hardware are bothgreat examples of a successful family business and both have 3 locations owned & operated within their families and the Home Hardware family of hardware stores.  The Payzantfamily has locations in Dartmouth, Lower Sackville Nova Scotia and Sackville New Brunswick.  The Proudfoot family has locations in New Glasgow, Pictou and Stellarton Nova Scotia.

We communicated with Alicia McQuain from BHK Outdoors this week, the makers of Blind Horse Knives.  They are now carrying lots of gear and more to come soon, like Trail Blazer saws.  This is a family business where everyone has a role and another great example how family owned business work well together.

The production of Trail Blazer’s Telescopic Jumbo Ratcheting Anvil Loppers, Trail Blazer’s Original 24” Take-Down Buck Saws and Home Hardware’s Professional extendable pin-locking paint poles continued to be on hold this week, while we wait for more material to arrive.  Robert’s team began preparing Mark’s Choice Xtend-A-Garden tools, which will start shipping exclusively to Home Hardware  stores across Canada next week.  This week … I was once again excited to see the production of one of our founding product in full swing … the Xtend-A-Saw, originally invented by the founder & my dad, Curtis Levangie, features a 10” Teflon-coated blade and finger molded handle grip to excel in all conditions from the yard & garden to the need of the extreme outdoor enthusiast.  Backpackers & hunters love this saw as it will easily fit into their pack when folded down.

Gardeners & hunters love that we added a threaded socket into the bottom of the handle.  When needed … the Xtend-A-saw attaches to any universal threaded pole (Broom handle) to turn it into a pole pruner for those high out of reach areas.  Let this innovative folding saw help you achieve all your out of reach pruning goals!

I met with the Halifax Chamber of Commerce to research how they could provide training for my team, who developed a purchasing procedure and must align their production schedule to meet demand … based on history and orders received.  I also met with the Greater Halifax Partnership to research how they could provide guidance for me … as my team addresses monthly financial objectives.  I’m now thinking what’s required to attract investors to invest capital and create growth.

The daily focus on the company’s financial objectives continued this week.  While my team develops the required daily procedures needed to keep the cost of our products within budgets, with a focus on controlling material and labour expenses.  The same procedures must control all our operating expenses to achieve profits!

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

A Look back, March 16^th 2011

One Year Ago, Ben Cumming was motivated to begin putting a lot of his time & attention in R&D and began developing new saws, knives & hatchets for the outdoors industry.  Also, my Daughter, Natalie turned 14 … Thanks to leap year, you will hear about her birthday next week.

Today, Ben Cumming is still motivated in research and development of new products. He’s part of my team setting up financial objectives to achieve the required budgets we need for him to launch his new saws, knives & hatchets for the outdoors industry.  My Daughter, Natalie will turn 15 tomorrow.

I set up my eighth Co-op Country Store assortment this week in Moncton New Brunswick.  Co-op Atlantic has 11 country stores in Nova Scotia, 8 country stores in New Brunswick, 4 country stores in Prince Edward Island and 1 country store in Newfoundland.  This growth may never have happened without our first assortment in Coldbrook Nova Scotia.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank Scotian Gold Co-op Country Store for all their much appreciated support & thank SouthEastern Farmers Co-op Country Store for continuing my dream.  On my drive back home to Dartmouth Nova Scotia, I stopped in to service Amherst Co-op Country Store, another one of the eight co-op locations in Atlantic Canada, where I am proud to see Trail Blazer products … And it is your first stop after you leave New Brunswick into Nova Scotia.

I heard from Jackie at Lakeland Plant World, in Dartmouth Nova Scotia.  She’s interested in our hand pruners and garden tools.  She used to be Garden centre manager at Windsor Home Hardware and remember us.  I’ll visit her shortly & present what’s new … It’s been 5 years since I seen her in Windsor.

The production of Trail Blazer’s Jumbo Ratcheting Anvil Loppers finished this week, more material arriving shortly.  While waiting for material to produce Home Hardware’s Professional paint poles from Onward Plastic, our partner, in Kitchener Ontario [http://onwardplastic.com] and Almag Aluminum, our partner in, Brampton Ontario [http://almag.com], Robert Woodman’s team will begin preparing Mark’s Choice Garden tools, available exclusively at Home Hardware across Canada.  When needed these tools attach to any universal threaded pole to give your back a break, or to get into that hard to reach place.  Gardening is meant to be enjoyable & stress free.  Let these tools help you achieve your gardening goals!

After Onward completes injecting the parts for our paint poles, they will begin injecting plastic blade ends & tube caps for our original 24” Take-Down Buck Saw … our founding product.  I apologize to anyone waiting for this product, while I am feeling proud that it is still very popular and in demand.

Plans for continuous improvement continued as I started the week with my dad to meet with his colleagues and discuss the future requirements for Trail Blazer Products Limited.  Plus this allowed me to enjoy lunch with just dad & I …  the real highlight of the day.  Back at the office, my team started the preparations to re-develop our purchasing procedures, which is much needed to eliminate back orders & double shipping.  The back orders are providing poor customer service while the double shipping is preventing us from reaching our financial objectives.  Once achieved, our customers will be much happier & we’ll be in a position to monitor expenses daily to achieve required profits.  It may be tough times right now, but with the guidance of Dale Thibodeau, our BDC consultant, and my team’s continued dedication to continuous improvement, we’ll be back on track and experiencing growth once again.

The other focuses to achieve financial objectives are maintaining gross margin which dropped slightly the end of February … still room for required improvement.  Also reducing our operating expenses in shipping (as mentioned above) and significantly reducing advertising & trade show expense that are not showing a return on investment.

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

A Look back, March 5^th 2011

One Year Ago, Kent Building Supplies began offering our pruning products in seven of their locations and the production team celebrated another successful Sam’s Club season.

Today, Kent Building Supplies offers our pruning products in seven of their locations for a second season and we were unable to complete Sam’s Club orders with lack of material.

I set up my second Home Hardware assortment this week in Greenwood, Nova Scotia.  This growth may never have happened without our first assortment, I set up in Wolfville, Nova Scotia on a 4 foot wall space.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank RafuseHome Hardware for all their support & thank Greenwood Home Hardware for continuing my dream.  The assortment in Greenwood was slightly different because they provided me with two 3 foot end-caps.  I set up Mark Choice Multi Tool system & pruning saws on one side featuring Mark’s Choice Xtend-A-Saw.  While the other side displayed our telescopic pruning tools & Take-Down Buck Saw, Trail Blazer’s founding product.  My header sign didn’t fit, so I’ll ask Ben to produce a new header sign for Home Hardware’s end cap displays and deliver them as soon as possible (pictures coming soon).

I received great news this week. Trail Blazer’s Reverse D-Handle Snow Shovels have now received Home Hardware warehouse numbers. These numbers make the Nova Scotia made shovels available through Home Hardware stores across Canada.  Once again Home Hardware continues to work with us and show great support to Canadian manufacturing.

Repeat Merchandising with the guidance of Ben Cumming, continued to set up pruning tool assortments at the seven locations of Kent Building Supplies, located in Dartmouth NS, Halifax NS, Fredericton NB, Moncton NB, Saint John NB, Mount Pearl Nfld & St. John’s Nfld.  I’m especially excited to see the sales results at Kent this year.  Ben is launching his new packaging and signage with a complete new look and feel.  He designed the material to promote the proud fact that Trail Blazer is a Nova Scotia owned and operated company with a side panel featuring my Dad’s founding product.  The Xtend-A-Saw, which was invented, designed and manufactured in Nova Scotia, launching us towards an international success story in the pruning market.  I would like to congratulate Ben on a job very well done … Dad, you did pretty well yourself.

I sent information to Kent Building Supplies last week, headquartered in Saint John, New Brunswick.  I continue to wait this week to hear if this Atlantic Canadian home improvement retailer would be interested in offering Trail Blazer’s Reverse D-Handle Snow Shovels, Made in Nova Scotia, in their stores next winter.

My son, Travis, left us this week … He will be spending the next five weeks in Florida … training.  Travis competes in paddling each summer and made the nationals last year. My son decided to get a job and saved up enough money to cover all his expenses to attend this five week training camp, including air fair.  That took a lot of hard work and discipline while still maintaining good grades. I love him very much and couldn’t be any more proud of him.

My daughters, Natalie & Victoria, also paddle each summer & went to nationals.  They will turn 15 & 13 this year … Yes my baby, Victoria will be a teenager!!!  Natalie continues training for paddling all winter here in Nova Scotia.  They both plan to not only follow their brother’s foot steps … but paddle right on by.

The production of Home Hardware’s Professional paint poles has begun again, with the support of Onward Plastic, our partner, in Kitchener Ontario. [http://onwardplastic.com/index.html]  We started injecting our super tough nylon threaded tips (with a custom designed cone shape to accept window squeegees … close up in photo), pin locking button (displaying our proud made in Canada/Halifax … also close up shown in photo), rubber hand grips for comfort and a specially designed stabilizer that provides you with the most sturdy extension pole on the market (even when fully extended). These parts will be added to the aluminum and Home Hardware exclusive honey mustard colored fiberglass tubing, after Robert’s production team completes the Jumbo Ratcheting Anvil Lopper’s for Sam’s Club in the United States, scheduled to be completed this week.  The production team will cut & drill the tubing, then rivet everything together to provide 5,000 various lengths of extension poles to Home Hardware stores across Canada.

The production of Trail Blazer’s Jumbo Ratcheting Anvil Lopper slowed down this week. The team produced & shipped 6,816 loppers last week and was only able to produce & ship 3,480 this week. They will produce & deliver the remaining 5,160 loppers and I will find out what went wrong … as the team focuses on continous improvement.

Plans for continuous improvement continued as we met with Dale Thibodeau, our BDC consultant, this week.  I shared the results from our first meeting with the team and they started thinking about what actions they will undertake to achieve the financial objectives.  When Dale arrived he started digging into and understanding the gaps between current and past performance.  The most important questions Dale asked my team was … How much are the gaps to the forecast?  What has past performance been?  What has changed and why? And, what needs to be done by whom to eliminate the gap by when?

The team presented how they will meet daily, to improve delivery performance.  They will work together, to control purchasing & inventory, keeping the required products needed on the shelf.  Plus they will determine how they reached the required labour costs in January … to ensure they maintain it each month.

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

A Look back, February 26^th 2011

One Year Ago, I took the family on a vacation through Canada & the United States.  We first experienced our Canadian winter in Mont Tremblant, Quebec … an unforgettable winter experience. Then we headed east through Maine, USA where we saw much wildlife during our scenic drive to Nova Scotia.

Today, I’m limiting my time away from work to focus on the much anticipated improvements at Trail Blazer.  After already experiencing many successes with continuous improvement processes and now working with Dale and determining our benchmarks, I look forward to celebrating Trail Blazer’s future with a much needed family vacation.

[http://www.trailblazerproducts.com/2606-taking-the-scenic-direct-route-home]

The production of Trail Blazer’s Jumbo Ratcheting Anvil Lopper continued, while Robert and his team try to take care of customers waiting for deliveries.  We were scheduled to deliver in January and a month later we’re scrambling to deliver half the orders … Yes, only half, the second half is still waiting for components that we suspect will arrive in early March.  The team has worked very hard this week, to produce & ship 6,816 loppers (just like the photo) and must produce & deliver another 8,640 loppers next week.  Robert will have to step up his team’s game to produce & ship approximately 30% more loppers next week.

We received all the required aluminum material needed to produce Trail Blazer’s Sawvivor Saw and all back-orders were produced and shipped this week.  Our next project will be to schedule plastic injection of our super tough nylon threaded tip.  This will allow Robert’s team to produce more Professional Paint Poles for Home Hardware.

The stores are now going through some exciting transitions or  are in the middle of the hard work involved with renovations to remodel their displays.  They do this each year with anticipation for the upcoming spring season.  They definitely are not looking to purchase any more snow shovels (can you blame them … we didn’t get much snow this year).  This most certainly does not mean our launch of Trail Blazer’s Reverse D-Handle Snow Shovels is over.  While I complete the paperwork this week, to make these Nova Scotia made snow shovels available through all Home Hardware stores across Canada.  I sent out more information to the purchaser at Kent Building Supplies in Saint John, New Brunswick.  I would love to see this Atlantic Canadian home improvement retailer become interested in offering Trail Blazer’s Reverse D-Handle Snow Shovels, Made in Nova Scotia, through their 34 store locations throughout the Atlantic Provinces.

Our partner, Repeat Merchandising with the guidance of Ben Cumming, started setting up pruning tool assortments at seven locations of Kent Building Supplies, located in Dartmouth, Halifax Nova Scotia, Fredericton, Moncton, Saint John New Brunswick, Mount Pearl & St. John’s Newfoundland.  I look forward to receiving and sharing photos.

Continuous improvement continued at Trail Blazer Products Limited when Ben Cumming showed great leadership and took the much required initiative to start a daily meeting.  These daily meetings will allow my whole management team (Ben Cumming “marketing & product development”, Betty Millard “shipping & receiving”, Monica Furlotte “sales & customer service” & Robert Woodman “production & purchasing”) to work together as a team.  They must work together on a daily basis to address our #1 concern and requirement needed to improve & increase profitability.  Adding more profit to the company, especially in the slow seasons, will improve cash flow.  Our #1 concern being the low percentage of on-time deliveries to our valued customers.  They must develop & control, on a daily basis, an inventory system that keeps enough products, at any one time, to meet our customers delivery requirements and not too much products that will be difficult to sell at the season’s end.

I received a presentation prepared by Dale Thibodeau, BDC consultant.  Benchmarking our expenses based on a 2 day discussion we had last week.  The presentation showed me how to add benchmarks to financials, compared to industry averages, with a detailed look at our material costs, new product development, shipping expenses & advertising.

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

A Look back, February 19^th 2011

One Year Ago, I participated in a steering committee in Ottawa.  Where we reviewed the results of a pre-assessment from an international trade study & made recommendations of actions for the FITT (Forum for International Trade Training) Board of Directors. (2/3 of the Canada’s economy is focused on International Trade)

Today, FITT received funding to move forward with our recommendations.  I’m not participating in phase 2 while Trail Blazer requires more of my attention.  I would like to wish Caroline Tompkins and her team at FITT all the best & I look forward to working with you in the future.

[http://www.trailblazerproducts.com/2542-fitt-steering-committee-in-ottawa/]

Click on image to visit Acklands-Grainger

Acklands-Grainger continues to expand its market position by understanding and satisfying the needs of our customers. They’re Canada’s largest distributor of industrial products, offering the convenience of a single source.  With the largest selection of products from the world’s top manufacturers (I’m proud they included Trail Blazer products).  Headquartered in Richmond Hill, Ontario, 170 branches across Canada, 6 distribution centers and more than 2,200 dedicated team members.

As I focus on the needs in the Lawn & Garden market, to make sure dealers are supplied with Trail Blazer products to meet the needs of landscapers & gardeners.  I was excited to learn that our products are availabile for the industrial market because Acklands Grainger made Trail Blazer products available on their new web site.

We received the delivery of our final component to produce Trail Blazer’s Jumbo Ratcheting Anvil Lopper this week, while customers wait for their deliveries.  This item was scheduled to be delivered on December 10^th and 2 months later we received half the order … Yes, only half, the second half is now suspected to arrive March 1^st.  The team has already produced & shipped 5 pallets and starting next week will begin delivering another 156 pallets.  I would like to apologize for these delays and let you know we’re speaking to new suppliers to ensure this doesn’t happen next season.

We received our new packaging & signage telling the story of Trail Blazer’s Nova Scotia made products.  When they arrived, orders were quickly put together and delivered to 7 Kent Building Supplies located in Dartmouth, Halifax Nova Scotia, Fredericton, Moncton, Saint John New Brunswick, Mount Pearl & St. John’s Newfoundland.

Our plans for continuous improvement continued this week as we met with Dale Thibodeau, our BDC consultant from Fredericton New Brunswick, for 2 days and was introduced to benchmarking, which will guide us to increased profitability.  Dale spent the time discussing where our budgets are compared to industries averages.  He will be sending me a presentation based on our discussions next week.  I look forward to receiving this information and begin building a strategy over the next 2 weeks… to improve & meet budgets for increased profitably.  Initially, we’ll look at material costs, new product development, shipping expenses & advertising. Then meet with Dale to discuss our plan.

During our meetings, we determined that the #1 area to focus on for improvement must be delivery.  Everyone must make this their #1 priority and find all the necessary changes required to allow Trail Blazer to delivering orders on time … I can remember when we delivered all orders within 48 hours of receiving them.

Let’s do it again, Shawn Levangie

A Look back, February 12^th 2011

One Year Ago, The winter products were becoming scarce and the spring items are hitting the shelves, while a demand for combo packages & assortments were growing in the US.  Closer to home, Kent Building supplies offered an assortment of Trail Blazer products through-out Atlantic Canada for the first time.

Today, there is no difference, as our team works hard at getting Trail Blazer’s spring products to our valuable partners, who want them now, including Kent Building supplies for the second season.  But, despite the overwhelming demand for combo packages last season … this season appears to be combo less.

[http://www.trailblazerproducts.com/2487-trail-blazer-offers-4-piece-pruning-sets]

17 years ago (February 1995), I started selling the Trail Blazer Saw (now known as the Take-Down Buck Saw). Along with my dad’s invention, the Xtend-A-Saw; a folding saw equipped with a threaded socket into the bottom of the handle, to accommodate any universal threaded pole (Broom handle) which instantly turns this into a pruning saw for high out of reach areas.  Today, Trail Blazer’s Nova Scotia made products are supported by retailers, including Home Hardware, Lee Valley Tools and Amazon.com. Internationally through partners like Manufactum in Germany and S-Ski & Sport in Norway.  Now we’re adding snow-removal products! We noticed when Home Hardware take down their pruning equipment, snow shovels went up.  The new product frontier is promising, and I’m pleased to add a product line that will help to even out sales throughout the year.

I am very proud we were able to develop a snow shovel with Superior leverage to handle the heavy, wet or packed snow.  We wanted to build a snow shovel that could truly withstand the rigors of the Canadian winter … to get at & pry loose the hard stuff.

Our Reverse-D Handle snow shovel launch has slowed down.  Stores have started clearing inventory & preparing spring assortments.  These Nova Scotia made shovels  were available in over 20 stores in N.S. & distributed nationwide through G. Hjukstrom.  The growth continues, we received word that Home Hardware will offer our Reverse-D Handle snow shovels, Made in Nova Scotia, through their warehouses next season.  Making them available through all Home Hardware stores across Canada.

Ben Cumming waited patiently for new packaging this week.  As soon as it arrives, he’ll send it to our local representatives to set up this year’s spring assortment at Kent.  With the packaging & additional signage telling the story of our Nova Scotia made products.

I am looking forward to getting the new packaging into our stores & hopefully seeing the results of our new branding efforts that began over 2 years ago, with a focus on family business & the support of Norex, an outside marketing firm.  The progress was controlled & delayed at times because of budget constraints in the beginning, but since Ben started working on the project in-house, only six months ago, we are now in a position to start seeing the results of our hard work.  He also plans to launch a new catalogue, including our story & rep binder for our sales team in North America.  Ben’s contributions do not stop there.  He also is contributing to the product development, as he works on developing a new leaf rake & a new line of saws, knives & hatchets for the Xtreme outdoor enthusiasts.

I continue to work with Maple Trade in hopes to improve our financing for our spring deliveries and despite signing the documentation over 3 week ago.  We are still waiting to get formal approval from our bank … The bank’s aproval is required for Maple Trade to begin assisting us with paying our outstanding payables over the next couple of months.

All the Best, Shawn Levangie

A Look back, February 5^th 2011

One Year Ago, when we got home from work … 40 centimeters of snow was waiting for us. Unless someone in your home had a snow day … Like my kids who received 2 days off school.  I would like to thank my kids Travis, Natalie & Victoria (again 1 year later) for sparing me from a snow covered driveway.

Today, when we get home from work … A clear driveway and spring weather is waiting for us, with no one even thinking about snow days.  Today we wait for the temperature to increase a little more, to grab our rakes & pruners to prepare the yards for spring.  (The year we decide to launch snow shovels … Just saying.)

[http://www.trailblazerproducts.com/2388-pruning-after-snow-bows-breaks-trees]