| 97 RURAL SERVICES » Lorneville Small Engines A trusted name in small engine service The Kincaids emphasise personalised service. Kelly Deeks In the heart of Southland, Lorneville Small Engines has been a trusted name in small engine sales and service since 1990, with owners Hannah and Richard not only maintaining but also building on the business they took over in 2019, with their focus on exceptional customer service and cuttingedge technology. Hannah and Richard inherited a well-established operation back in 2019 but were soon met with a series of challenges. “We haven’t had a normal year in business yet,” Hannah says. “Our first year was a drought, the second year was Covid and that went on for a couple of years. Even now, distribution networks still aren’t what they used to be. These have certainly been interesting times.” Unlike local competitors, the Kincaids emphasise personalised service and a unique hands-on experience with its ‘try before you buy’ offering on their spacious property at 30 Lorneville-Dacre Road. Living on-site allows the Kincaids to offer this hands-on experience. “People can drive up our driveway and see the robots in action,” says Hannah. “That’s our biggest point of difference. Our customers can test the equipment on real terrain, something you can’t do in town. The previous owners did a great job marketing this, and we’ve built on that.” The shop primarily serves local life-stylers, farmers, and contractors, providing sales, servicing, and repairs. As the southern-most Husqvarna dealership, also stocking and supplying product and parts from Masport, Briggs and Stratton, BE Pressure, Castle Garden, LawnMaster, and more, Lorneville Small Engines offers a wide range of products, including chainsaws, lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, and the increasingly popular robotic lawnmowers, which have been a significant factor in the recent growth of Lorneville Small Engines. “When we first started, they were just emerging and now, they’re a big part of our business,” Hannah says. The appeal of these automated machines lies in their efficiency and precision. “People our age with young kids, busy professionals, and even older homeowners love them because they keep lawns immaculate with little to no effort.” Lorneville Small Engines not only sells but also installs and services the units, often deploying one “Our first year was a drought, the second year was Covid and that went on for a couple of years. Even now, distribution networks still aren’t what they used to be. These have certainly been interesting times.” Proud to be associatedwith Lorneville Small Engines 03 236 2897 www.gladvalefarms.co.nz masport.co.nz ENGINEERED FOR KIWIS BY KIWIS Trusted or two new machines per week. “We’re seeing interest from commercial customers now too,” Richard says. “JJs across the road is installing two units for their four-acre property, and a local Golf Course is considering a large-scale model.” The Husqvarna Automower® 550 EPOS™ is among the most advanced commercial options available, designed for use on areas up to 10,000sqm. It boasts virtual boundary technology, allowing users to set multiple mowing zones and exclusion areas via a mobile app. Lorneville Small Engines operates year-round, with peak business running from summer through April. Winter sees an increase in chainsaw servicing as customers prepare firewood for colder months. With a dedicated team of two mechanics, an office administrator, and Richard working in the workshop while Hannah manages the business side, Lorneville Small Engines remains a family- focused operation with a strong reputation for service and innovation. GET YOUR PROPERTY WINTER READY Property repairs & Maintenance | Spouting & Roof Repairs Trimming & Weed Spraying Pro-Cut South Call 021 519 019 Professional Results with a Personal Touch www.procutsouth.co.nz
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