How has your dealership recently been affected by Big Box competition and what changes have you made to stay competitive?

“Honda walk behind mowers are now being sold in Home Depot for less than we can purchase them for. Therefore, we have quit selling Honda push mowers.

Customers are allowed to return mowers that they tore up or ruined and get their money back at the box stores and we cannot compete with that. Or, they can go home and mow their yard and then return it for a full refund. The box stores will even give them a refund for a 2-year-old mower if they yell loud enough. I will not compete with that.

Husqvarna is now being sold in Lowe's, but I try to carry the models they don't have and I offer the bundle program, along with discounts for municipalities and churches. I stock parts and sell my chain at a discounted price because I buy in bulk.”

Donna Mills, Lowell Small Engines, Lowell, Ark.