Episode Overview
Troy Greenleaf, owner of Mainely Equipment Rental, reflects on 40 years in the rental industry and the changes he’s seen since taking over his family’s business in 2020. He shares what’s shifted, and what hasn’t, over the decades, from the decline of DIY projects to the rise of technology and national chains, and explains why personalized service, flexible programs, and financial discipline still give independents an edge.
Timestamps:
- 00:00 – Introduction to Troy Greenleaf who has 40+ years of rental industry experience
- 07:21 – Troy discusses how running both equipment and event rental businesses feels like managing two different businesses simultaneously
- 08:47 – Troy discusses his career path from leaving the family business in 1999, working elsewhere, and returning in 2011
- 13:04 – Troy explains how the DIY market has diminished over the last 5-10 years, with customers having less interest and skills for equipment operation
- 13:30 – Evolution of rental business technology from handwritten invoices and time clocks to digital systems and online payments
- 15:30 – How technology like Quipli has helped level the playing field between small independent rental stores and larger companies
- 43:34 – Discussion about implementing new processes and technology while managing complex change
- 44:33 – Troy recommends regular SWOT assessments (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) with your team
- 45:40 – Insight that rental businesses of all sizes face similar challenges, just at different scales
- 47:04 – Troy’s business advice: be 100% involved in your business while maintaining balance, as rental businesses tend to blend into personal life
