Lanford Equipment Company opens second store in Central Texas

By MANDY SPIKES | Central Texas Edition

August 21, 2003 -- Since 1948, Lanford Equipment Company has offered quality products to help homeowners, farmers, contractors, and other light industrial equipment users.

The company recently branched out of their Austin office to add another location in Marble Falls. Don Rhodes, who is managing the new store, is excited about the opportunity that the new store will offer their customers.

"Our primary reason for adding this new store is that we have a lot of loyal customers in Marble Falls, who travel all the way to Austin to get their equipment needs met," stated Rhodes.

"Marble Falls is a prime area for us to have this additional store because the place keeps developing and growing every year," he said.

Rhodes said that the company has "bragging rights" in the fact that they have a huge line of Kubota products. Over the last 30 years, he added, Kubota has become a very appreciated brand. The store also carries the different support attachments and equipment to go with Kubota, as well as providing parts, full service, and rentals.

"Product quality and reputation is the reason that customers come into our store the first time. Customer service is the reason they keep returning."

In addition to an increase in the volume of their products, he said, the company feels it's important to take care of their customers in the immediate area.

"People here in the Marble Falls area are an extremely nice group of people.

"They are friendly and pleasant to deal with. This is a great place to live, which is one reason I agreed to move down here to run the store."

Rhodes sees great opportunities in the future. "Kubota has been very good to us. It's one of the main reasons our company has been able to stay in business. In the future, I see a strong link between our customers and us, and us and Kubota."

Because the company is just getting their wheels running, he asked customers to be a little patient while they fix the little problems that occur with many new stores.

"In return, we promise to have the highest standard of customer service in all areas of our operation."

Rhodes extends an invitation to anyone who would like to come out to the grand opening of the new store, which will take place August 21 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

"We have a lot of equipment to show those who come that evening. We will also have good food and music for everyone to enjoy. It should be a great event.

"We hope that we can be serious competition to the other equipment dealers here in the area.

"By being here we hope to make these dealers better dealers, and we, in return will become better a dealer ourself."