Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/332591
22 • JULY 2014 • WORLD FENCE NEWS FENCER'S FIELD REPORT A monthly column of industry bits & pieces Compiled by contributing editor Jim Lucci and the staff of World Fence News chain link and ornamental fencing as well. Scott also shared with us that the company was established in 1974 and has done work for government agen- cies such as the FBI, DEA, and EPA, as well as military bases, data centers, state capitols, federal buildings, churches, schools, etc. In addition to perimeter security We had the opportunity to speak briefly with Scott Riley of Tusco Inc. in Cottondale, Alabama. At the time we spoke to Scott he told us that this year was going terrifically. This year, in fact, was the best year to date in re- cent memory. The company does 100% com- mercial work across the U.S. and has occasionally done work outside the U.S., when the situation called for it. For the most part, the company, according to Scott, is involved with perimeter security fencing, particularly with the specific emphasis on replac- ing six foot with eight foot galvanized fencing, the company offers such products as crash rated fencing and gates, wedge barriers, bollards and drop arms, which are designed to com- bat the threat of terrorism. We asked Scott what are some of the major trends or changes that he has seen in the fence business in his area. He told us that one of the major changes has been in the regulations and necessary documentation needed for each job. The amount of paper- work has increased dramatically. We asked whether this change has been better or worse for the company. We were told better, because it has eliminated some competition due to the increased amount of paperwork that has to be done. We asked about the economy in the area. Scott told us that most people are struggling to keep their heads above water. Things are very slow. Foreclosures are not as bad as perhaps in some other places. We asked about the company strategy for 2014, and were told that the company will continue to search for markets and opportunities that they do best and go after them. The company doesn't do any ad- vertising at all except their web site. We then caught up with Don Chi- quette of Upright Fence of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Don told us that the season really started the third week of March and got off to a great start and is continuing in that direction. The company business mix is 90% residential and 10% commercial, gen- erated in a 30-mile service area. The company, according to Don, really focuses on creating the classic New England style fence. Its forte is number one grade custom grade white cedar. They also do chain link and alu- minum, but have stopped doing vinyl. Basically, Don continued, the com- pany buys its wood dimensionally and custom builds the designs. Don believes the company has better control of the quality of the product by doing it this way. On the commercial side we were told that the company has done work for ship yards, air force bases, etc. Don further shared with us that the company was founded in 1985 and is