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I ” have long said that our industry is a resilient industry that has weathered many storms . But through it all , pavement maintenance contractors and distributors , an essential business in the country , seem to thrive .” ~ Mark McLeod
Allied Paving Equipment : “ Mark , what changes in the pavement maintenance markets do you see coming down the pipeline for the 2024 season ?”
Mark McLeod : “ Well , once again we are in the midst of a US presidential election . And just like the last election , people are edgy , and some are worried that the outcome in power might change the economy , creating disrupted supply chains and price increases with labor shortages . I have long said that our industry is a resilient industry that has weathered many storms . But through it all , pavement maintenance contractors and distributors , an essential business in the country , seem to thrive . I see a flat line for price increases . The pandemic hangover to me is a thing of the past . So , we ’ ve moved on ! As far as workloads and equipment sales from our ABLE equipment division , parts sales are brisk and are earlier than they have been in the past couple of years , so I anticipate contractors are gearing up earlier this year . I feel the weather and heavier customer acquisitions have contributed to this .”
Brad Eagle : “ There is so much buzz in our industry right now that it makes one ’ s head spin ! From Washington to Florida , our distributors have been ordering more often and earlier than we have seen in a few years . Our FSA and FASS DRI sales have increased substantially from even 2023 , which was a fabulous year for Maintenance Inc ./ ABLE Industries . On the local scene , I have contractors telling me that they are almost booked 4 months out on projects . Leading me to believe that 2024 will be a good , solid year for the pavement maintenance industry . Being a realist , weather has played a big part in contractors getting out the door sooner . We have oeasons . I see good things coming down the pavement maintenance road this year .”
APE : “ Mark , you seem excited to be kicking off the 2024 season . Why the big smile ?”
MM : “ My team has been evaluating our new developments pertaining to the asphalt emulsion sealers that are being applied nationwide . Our research and trials over the past three years have been completed on a product called OxiBond primer . OxiBond primer was developed to combat rock polish and tire cutting in tight turn lanes . It can be diluted with water 1:1 . A benefit we discovered during the
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