Hartzler Equipment, Lamar, Mo.
Locations: Harrisonville, Nevada, and Lamar, Mo.
Lamar Branch Manager: Eric Lucas
Owners: Jay Hartzler, founder; Lowell Hartzler, son of Jay and co-owner
History of Hartzler Equipment: Jay Hartzler started the company 30 years ago, selling hay equipment and a few implements. He obtained a Case contract and has been a Case dealer ever since. About 15 years ago, Hartzler built the store in Nevada and in September 2008, they opened the branch in Lamar.
Products and Services: Hartzler Equipment specializes in Case IH equipment. But they also sell Great Plains and Kinze planters, Kubota products, Walker lawnmowers and more. They also service all of their brands. In the store, Hartzler carries all of the standard consumable items like clothing and small precision farming tools. They also sell parts for the equipment they sell.
What sets Hartzler apart from their competitors?
"Our competitive edge is the full service side of our business," said Eric. "And Mr. Hartzler is a farmer. He knows the business, he knows the needs of farmers, and he knows many of his customers by name." This friendliness and service sets the business apart from others. "We build long term relationships with farmers. We want them to succeed. That's our biggest goal."
Future of Hartzler Equipment: "Hartzler is a conservative company. It has a lot of growth potential and expectations," said Eric. Hartzler Equipment will be looking at the economic conditions and make decisions based on that. They will continue to take advantage of opportunities to expand and strengthen their product and service offerings to their customers.
By Jordan Haymes
