In recent years, Route 61 and the surrounding area has become a mecca of business and industry. Investments by the manufacturing, logistics and technology sectors contribute to an exciting tapestry of growth and commerce — and Bobcat of Reading is one of the next big players on the scene. Planned, built and opened amid the turmoil of the COVID-19 pandemic and driven by a core philosophy of solutions-driven service, Bobcat of Reading’s story personifies resilience, ingenuity and determination. Join us as we delve into the details of this thriving enterprise, where each obstacle becomes an opportunity.
In recent years, Route 61 and the surrounding area has become a mecca of business and industry. Investments by the manufacturing, logistics and technology sectors contribute to an exciting tapestry of growth and commerce — and Bobcat of Reading is one of the next big players on the scene. Planned, built and opened amid the turmoil of the COVID-19 pandemic and driven by a core philosophy of solutions-driven service, Bobcat of Reading’s story personifies resilience, ingenuity and determination. Join us as we delve into the details of this thriving enterprise, where each obstacle becomes an opportunity.
The Story Behind Bobcat of Reading
The origins of Bobcat of Reading can be traced back to the establishment of Crownstone Equipment in April 2018 by McGrew Enterprises, LLC. Crownstone Equipment was founded with a strategic goal in mind: to develop successful dealership locations. Anticipating the acquisitions of Bobcat of York and Bobcat of Adams County, Crownstone Equipment swiftly expanded its footprint by adding Bobcat of Frederick later that year.
Bolstered by founder Greg McGrew's extensive experience in the construction equipment industry, Crownstone Equipment solidified its presence, opening Bobcat of Hagerstown in February 2020, followed by the acquisition of Bobcat of Lancaster in March 2020.
The company was on the fast track for growth, with its eyes fixed on a sixth location in Berks County—all in under five years. Crownstone commenced construction on Bobcat of Reading in February 2022, a project supported by the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA), which played a pivotal role in the project by facilitating the sale of 14.4 acres of land at the northwest corner of routes 61 and 73 in Ontelaunee Township.
Rooted in a legacy of customer service excellence and market acumen honed through McGrew Equipment Company, Crownstone epitomizes a commitment to superior service and selection. The choice of the Crownstone name pays homage to the geographical influence of the dealerships, reflecting the historic crownstones lining the Pennsylvania and Maryland border, emblematic of the community's heritage and resilience.
The Story Behind Bobcat of Reading
The origins of Bobcat of Reading can be traced back to the establishment of Crownstone Equipment in April 2018 by McGrew Enterprises, LLC. Crownstone Equipment was founded with a strategic goal in mind: to develop successful dealership locations. Anticipating the acquisitions of Bobcat of York and Bobcat of Adams County, Crownstone Equipment swiftly expanded its footprint by adding Bobcat of Frederick later that year.
Bolstered by founder Greg McGrew's extensive experience in the construction equipment industry, Crownstone Equipment solidified its presence, opening Bobcat of Hagerstown in February 2020, followed by the acquisition of Bobcat of Lancaster in March 2020.
The company was on the fast track for growth, with its eyes fixed on a sixth location in Berks County—all in under five years. Crownstone commenced construction on Bobcat of Reading in February 2022, a project supported by the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA), which played a pivotal role in the project by facilitating the sale of 14.4 acres of land at the northwest corner of routes 61 and 73 in Ontelaunee Township.
Rooted in a legacy of customer service excellence and market acumen honed through McGrew Equipment Company, Crownstone epitomizes a commitment to superior service and selection. The choice of the Crownstone name pays homage to the geographical influence of the dealerships, reflecting the historic crownstones lining the Pennsylvania and Maryland border, emblematic of the community's heritage and resilience.
With its sights set on Berks County as the home of its next Bobcat destination, Crownstone Equipment turned to GRCA for support in selecting the perfect site.
As demand for commercial and industrial real estate continues to rise, GRCA and its affiliate economic development organization the Greater Berks Development Fund (GBDF), cooperate with both the private and public sector to advance community prosperity and sustainability. With a mission to aid and promote economic and industrial expansion, GBDF has both directly and indirectly helped local and new businesses thrive in Berks County for more than 40 years.
Facilitating the sale of 14.4 acres of land to McGrew Enterprises, LLC / Crownstone Equipment, GRCA and GBDF helped pave the way for the future development of Bobcat of Reading, marking a significant milestone for the burgeoning business and industry along route 61.
“Serving the construction, landscaping, agricultural, forestry and lawn and garden industries in Berks County has been something we have wanted to support since the beginning of Crownstone’s existence,” said Scott Kelly, Executive Vice President at Crownstone Equipment. “Choosing the Reading area was a no-brainer as it is in the heart of Berks County.”
This sentiment resonates with the leadership team's vision to not only offer top-notch construction and lawn & garden equipment but also to become an integral part of the local community. The new Bobcat of Reading features a state-of-the-art, 12,000-square-foot facility and employs 12 full-time team members, bringing new job opportunities and contributing to the economic growth of Berks County.
The risk was immense, but it paved the way for future success, allowing it to weather the storm, rise from the ashes and continue their journey of revitalizing historic spaces in Reading and beyond.
With its sights set on Berks County as the home of its next Bobcat destination, Crownstone Equipment turned to GRCA for support in selecting the perfect site.
As demand for commercial and industrial real estate continues to rise, GRCA and its affiliate economic development organization the Greater Berks Development Fund (GBDF), cooperate with both the private and public sector to advance community prosperity and sustainability. With a mission to aid and promote economic and industrial expansion, GBDF has both directly and indirectly helped local and new businesses thrive in Berks County for more than 40 years.
Facilitating the sale of 14.4 acres of land to McGrew Enterprises, LLC / Crownstone Equipment, GRCA and GBDF helped pave the way for the future development of Bobcat of Reading, marking a significant milestone for the burgeoning business and industry along route 61.
“Serving the construction, landscaping, agricultural, forestry and lawn and garden industries in Berks County has been something we have wanted to support since the beginning of Crownstone’s existence,” said Scott Kelly, Executive Vice President at Crownstone Equipment. “Choosing the Reading area was a no-brainer as it is in the heart of Berks County.”
This sentiment resonates with the leadership team's vision to not only offer top-notch construction and lawn & garden equipment but also to become an integral part of the local community. The new Bobcat of Reading features a state-of-the-art, 12,000-square-foot facility and employs 12 full-time team members, bringing new job opportunities and contributing to the economic growth of Berks County.
The risk was immense, but it paved the way for future success, allowing it to weather the storm, rise from the ashes and continue their journey of revitalizing historic spaces in Reading and beyond.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses across industries were faced with unprecedented challenges, and Bobcat of Reading was no exception. Initially, the company experienced a surge in sales as businesses and individuals sought out equipment for various projects during lockdowns.
However, this boom was short-lived as the pandemic's effects on the global supply chain began to take their toll. With delays in acquiring equipment and uncertainty looming over the economy, Crownstone found itself navigating uncharted territory.
Amidst the uncertainty, Bobcat of Reading took decisive action to pivot and reimagine its sales process. Recognizing the importance of adaptability in times of crisis, the company shifted its focus towards providing exceptional customer service and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of its clientele.
Instead of solely relying on traditional sales tactics, Bobcat of Reading embraced a customer-centric approach by prioritizing relationships and long-term partnerships over short-term gains.
"We really try to pride ourselves on being solutions-driven, not sales-driven. If we can help solve a customer's problem, even if it doesn't contribute to a sale for us, that's really our end goal,” said Regional Sales Manager Abraham Raum.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Bobcat of Reading remained steadfast in its commitment to serving its customers. With a focus on innovation and integrity, the company weathered the storm and emerged stronger than ever. By staying true to its core values and embracing change, Bobcat of Reading not only survived the COVID-19 bubble but righted the ship in the face of adversity—a story from which every business, large or small, can draw inspiration.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses across industries were faced with unprecedented challenges, and Bobcat of Reading was no exception. Initially, the company experienced a surge in sales as businesses and individuals sought out equipment for various projects during lockdowns.
However, this boom was short-lived as the pandemic's effects on the global supply chain began to take their toll. With delays in acquiring equipment and uncertainty looming over the economy, Crownstone found itself navigating uncharted territory.
Amidst the uncertainty, Bobcat of Reading took decisive action to pivot and reimagine its sales process. Recognizing the importance of adaptability in times of crisis, the company shifted its focus towards providing exceptional customer service and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of its clientele.
Instead of solely relying on traditional sales tactics, Bobcat of Reading embraced a customer-centric approach by prioritizing relationships and long-term partnerships over short-term gains.
"We really try to pride ourselves on being solutions-driven, not sales-driven. If we can help solve a customer's problem, even if it doesn't contribute to a sale for us, that's really our end goal,” said Regional Sales Manager Abraham Raum.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Bobcat of Reading remained steadfast in its commitment to serving its customers. With a focus on innovation and integrity, the company weathered the storm and emerged stronger than ever. By staying true to its core values and embracing change, Bobcat of Reading not only survived the COVID-19 bubble but righted the ship in the face of adversity—a story from which every business, large or small, can draw inspiration.
Central to Bobcat of Reading’s transition was the team's commitment to their core values of communication, accountability, integrity and teamwork, which they affectionately refer to as CAIT.
Throughout the tough times, the team leaned on each other for support and guidance, embodying the spirit of teamwork that defines its organization. Scott emphasized the importance of adaptability, saying, "Being prepared for the unexpected is the hardest thing to do. But when it does happen, you need to be able to embrace change."
By staying true to these principles, it was able to navigate the challenges of the pandemic with grace and determination.
"Getting the fundamentals right is imperative,” Jeff said sagely. “A good Bobcat dealership is run on the synergy among parts, service and rental."
And Bobcat of Reading has these fundamentals down to a tee. From the incredible showroom to the organized parts shop to the bustling service department, each division of the business runs like a finely tuned machine and is headed by friendly, knowledgeable team members.
Central to Bobcat of Reading’s transition was the team's commitment to their core values of communication, accountability, integrity and teamwork, which they affectionately refer to as CAIT.
Throughout the tough times, the team leaned on each other for support and guidance, embodying the spirit of teamwork that defines its organization. Scott emphasized the importance of adaptability, saying, "Being prepared for the unexpected is the hardest thing to do. But when it does happen, you need to be able to embrace change."
By staying true to these principles, it was able to navigate the challenges of the pandemic with grace and determination.
"Getting the fundamentals right is imperative,” Jeff said sagely. “A good Bobcat dealership is run on the synergy among parts, service and rental."
And Bobcat of Reading has these fundamentals down to a tee. From the incredible showroom to the organized parts shop to the bustling service department, each division of the business runs like a finely tuned machine and is headed by friendly, knowledgeable team members.
Innovation on the Horizon
Bobcat of Reading's journey from surviving to thriving amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates the power of resilience, innovation and a steadfast commitment to core values. Individuals and businesses alike are invited to stop in to experience its unmatched customer service and extensive range of products and equipment. Whether you're a homeowner looking for consumer-focused products or a business in need of reliable machinery, Bobcat of Reading stands ready to serve, providing solutions tailored to your unique needs. Visit its showroom today and discover why it’s more than just a dealership; it’s a trusted partner in success.
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Want to explore additional Innovation + Community Stories from Reading, PA.? Visit the GRCA’s dedicated webpage.
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