Members of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) gathered in Kohler, Wisc. in late June for their annual meeting, electing a new board and discussing the challenges ahead for the power equipment industry, and its potential for growth.
“With growing regulatory issues, potential economic upheaval ahead and shifting attitudes about lawn care and landscaping, our industry and members are seeing new challenges, even as they face a period of growth and innovation,” Dan Ariens, incoming chair of the OPEI Board of Directors, says. At this year’s OPEI Annual Meeting, speakers provided both insight and advice on today’s unprecedented climate, such as Ann Marie Buerkle, Acting Chairman of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Opening with a discussion the changing regulatory climate, she assured the audience of her commitment to “following the data” during decision-making around rules and regulations.
Serving on the OPEI 2017-18 Board of Directors are: Chair, Dan Ariens, Chairman & CEO, Ariens Co.; Vice Chair, Tom Cromwell, Group President – Power, Kohler Co.; Secretary/Treasurer: Bjoern Fischer, President, Stihl Inc.; Immediate Past Chair: Tim Merrett, Vice President, Global Platform –Turf & Utility, Agriculture & Turf Div., Deere & Co.
Other members of the OPEI Board of Directors inclide Edward B. Cohen, Vice President, Government & Industry Relations, Honda North America, Inc.; Tim Dorsey, President, Echo Inc.; Marc J. Dufour, President & CEO, Club Car, LLC; Tom Duncan, President and CEO, Positec Tool Corp.; Peter Hampton, President, Active Exhaust Corp.; Jean Hlay, President & Chief Operating Officer, MTD Products Inc.; Jeff Hohler, President, Consumer Brands Division, Husqvarna Group; Paul Mullet, President & CEO, Excel Industries, Inc.; Rick Olson, President & Chief Operating Officer, The Toro Co.; Lee Sowell, President – Outdoor Products, Techtronic Industries Power Equipment; Todd Teske, Chairman, President & CEO, Briggs and Stratton Corp.
The meeting was held at The American Club in Kohler, home to OPEI member Kohler Engines. Next year, OPEI will hold its annual meeting at Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Key Largo, Fla.