January 10, 2023
Alberto Pianelli
Happy 2023, American Rental Association (ARA) Region Nine members!
The new year is upon us. Even though a lot of things seem to be slowing down, our industry is very resilient. We need to continue to be optimistic and know that we will still see positive growth for our industry. That is a good thing. 2022 was a weird year, but it was a growing year for my operation and so many others. I think 2023 will be the same, continue this wave and proceed down this path of growth.
A great way to make sure you are prepared for the coming year is to take advantage of all that ARA offers. The big event coming up is The ARA Show™ in Orlando, Feb. 11-15. It is going to be great — all the networking, 20-plus hours of education (including the two new Saturday options), the buying and more. This is a show you don’t want to miss.
I also would like to encourage you to invest some of your time back into the association by attending networking and educational events offered closer to home. The ARA of California offered important education, including the vital Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) train-the-trainer program, at the California Rental Association yard parties this past year. Members in three locations all took part at the same time in the fun social at Topgolf. Then there were the baseball games and so much more.
Speaking of education, ARA offers so much through RentalU, including the ARA Certified Sales and Service courses as well as the updated Professional Driver Education Program. That is just the tip of the iceberg. Take this time to see what is available because having an educated staff is key to running a successful and customer-focused operation. Our association offers so many educational resources. Why wouldn’t you want to use this resource? Then, when you add in the valuable networking, it is a slam-dunk. I know that I depend on that networking. My business couldn’t survive if I didn’t lean on other business owners with re-rentals and other things. You can start those relationships when you get involved, attend meetings and events like the show. It all benefits you — and you gain some fantastic friends in the process.
I know finding help has been very challenging. If you haven’t used it already, check out ARA’s Job Portal. Members can have five free postings. That is a sweet deal.
I also want to share that I will be offering free informational webinars with key ARA staff. I encourage Region Nine members to jump on the calls and ask questions about products and services offered by ARA. Watch your email for details on dates and times. Then be part of the calls. I want to hear from you.
Speaking of hearing from you, I don’t just say that. I really mean it. Email, text or call me. I want to hear your questions and concerns so I can serve you better.
Have a great 2023, and I look forward to seeing you at the show in Orlando.
Alberto Pianelli, Region Nine director
F & B Rentals
Santa Ana, Calif.
949-307-8301
alberto@fbrentals.com
