By Sean Delaney
Winter is on its way, if not already here. And for many, fall and winter are seasons of home maintenance.
It’s one reason Kooy Brothers of Emery Village has been so busy. The lawn and snow equipment specialist is an anchor of Emery’s business community, and is well known for its customer service and quality products. However, as President and CEO Bill Kooy advised, even companies with some of the longest track records see a delay in product acquisition due to high demand across the country.
The pandemic has simply left a lot of people focused on their homes.
“We’ve had solid preseason sales on our snow blowers, clearing equipment, plows, sidewalk tractors, salters, we’ve just been going hard, but finding an unprecedented demand for the product,” Kooy said. “And what we’re advising customers is that the supply chain is struggling to keep up. At the factory level, they’re struggling to keep up with orders. With the supply chain being what it is, we’re going to see more issues in the next six to eight months or so, so we’re telling people they can’t be surprised about delays with that particular model they may want.”
And Kooy said it’s ubiquitous throughout the industry. Suppliers they have never seen delays from in 35 years of business are experiencing demand like they’ve never dealt with.
“Our cupboards are bare basically because we’re sold out and they can’t keep up with sales across the country, so everyone is looking at a situation they’ve never dealt with.”
But 35 years in business also builds the ability to adapt, as well as a strong reputation. And while Kooy may see shortages of some products, the variety available at their business continues to be second to none and even saw them have a significant visitor this November.
“All of a sudden, this black suburban pulls up and three people get out and one of them is Premier Doug Ford,” Kooy said. “So, we were like, ok, look who came to town.”
Ford was looking for a chainsaw for his cottage and was in between meetings. He needed a 20-inch saw and some accessories, and half an hour later was out the door with his new purchase, a carrying case and a lot of good memories.
“It was a good experience,” Kooy said. “We had a chat about what was going on, we were careful not to shake hands, but he took the time to interact with our staff and my son Will. He asked us about our business and how that was going. It was an enjoyable visit.”
Kooy Brothers is located at 1919 Wilson Ave.
You can call them at: 416-242-3513
Or visit them online at: kooybros.com