The Arborist Industry is pretty unique. It’s characterised by some great businesses that do more than simply sell a product. They provide advice and guidance, thoughts and ideas, laughs and friendship. There’s a real sense of community, some great businesses and some great characters. One of those businesses is Treetools and one of those characters is Richard Tregoweth. We sat down with Richard to talk and learn more about Treetools and how it all began.
What came before Treetools? Have you always been involved in arboriculture?
Over 40 years in various family-owned service businesses. Treetools is our first retail operation.
How did Treetools begin?
We started very simply from a small office at home, initially targeting the pruning market but we changed strategy on meeting some real arborists at a tree climbing competition; in particular Johno Smith, Drew Bristow and Rossy Ross.
When you started, did you have a clear vision of what type of company you wanted to be?
Yes. Totally service oriented. An authority, offering quality product at value for money prices.
What type of company did you not want to be?
A cheap discounter, with poor quality product and a total lack of service.
Do you think you have achieved the vision? What have been the challenges along the way?
Hopefully our customers say ‘yes!’. Managing the stock mix is one of our biggest challenges.
What changes have you noticed over the years?
Social media has changed things. A lot of new techniques and ideas are presented on the internet. Some are good and some are downright dangerous. The customer has to decide who is telling the truth and who is not, and that can be a challenge for the uninitiated.
How do you keep up to date with all the advancement with product in the industry?
Treetools has plenty of support from the manufacturers but out biggest source of information comes direct from our customers.
Your most satisfying moment in business?
Spending time with climbers on a daily basis discussing work life and how different gear and techniques can be applied to make the job safer and easier.
Your most disappointing?
Unreasonable people.
What does the future hold for Treetools?
Expanding our product range to meet the new demands of our customers.
Treetools carries a wide selection of Clogger and have access to the entire range. Just ask Richard and he’ll be able to help you out!