MobilityWorks Expands to Twenty Locations in Twelve States with the Acquisition of Handicapped Driver Services (HDS …

Posted by adminwp | Conversion Vans | Wednesday 22 February 2012 6:12 pm

Akron, OH (PRWEB) February 22, 2012

Less than a month after acquiring the assets of Monmouth Vans Access & Mobility in New Jersey, MobilityWorks announced that has acquired Handicapped Driver Services of Marietta, GA (aka HDS Vans & Mobility). HDS has five showrooms located in Alabama, Georgia, Florida and Tennessee with approximately 40 employees. MobilityWorks is the largest provider of wheelchair vans in North America, now with 20 showroom locations in 12 states and a commercial van division. Historically, they have grown the sales volume on acquisitions by over 50%, largely in part due to an emphasis on marketing and in working with market influencers.

MobilityWorks represents minivan conversion manufacturers BraunAbility and Vantage Mobility International (VMI) and are their largest resellers in bringing mobility solutions to the disabled community. MobilityWorks has been instrumental in fostering dealership agreements with a clear commitment from the dealer and from the manufacturers. This has improved the industry by allowing partnerships to thrive and serve consumers with the best options available. In addition to new and pre-owned accessible minivans for sale, all of the MobilityWorks store locations offer handicap vans for rent, mechanical service, scooter lifts, wheelchair lifts, hand controls and financing.

HDS was started in 1976 by Jim Craig, a military veteran who wanted to help disabled vets with their modified vehicle needs. At the time, Mr. Craig was training drivers with disabilities to supplement his income. HDS is considered to be an early forerunner of today’s adaptive vehicle dealership, with many different conversion options, certified mobility consultants and local service. Starting with a small building in Atlanta, HDS quickly expanded to other cities and eventually moved its headquarters north to Marietta. Current owner Michael Dresdner took over the reins from Mr. Craig in 1991 and will continue to be a special advisor and consultant with MobilityWorks. He emphasized that determining what equipment will work the best for the client’s physical needs and lifestyle is the most important thing they do.

“Our companies are very similar in how they serve the client and in our core principles,” said Michael Dresdner. “We share the same goal, which is to get things right for the client every time.”

Also staying on through the transition is Scott Sorenson, HDS Chief Operating Officer. He will continue to oversee operations of the five HDS store locations, reporting to Eric Mansfield, VP of Store Operations at the MobilityWorks headquarters in Akron, Ohio.

“Michael Dresdner and Scott Sorenson have been real leaders in our industry and they will continue to be strong advocates for people with disabilities in working with us,” said Bill Koeblitz, President/CEO of MobilityWorks. “We’re excited to have them on board.”

The company’s new southeast locations will also help to facilitate the service of its commercial accessible wheelchair van customers who mostly operate Ford E-Series full-size vans. MobilityWorks and HDS service center technicians are certified through the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) to install and maintain the most sophisticated equipment and high-tech driving systems available. Combined, they have installed more electronic driving controls than any other adaptive equipment dealer in the world.

About MobilityWorks
The Akron-based Inc 500 company is the largest adaptive vehicle dealer in the United States and now employs more than 300 full-time employees throughout the country. Showroom and service centers are located in AL, CA, FL, GA, IL, MI, NJ, NY, PA, OH, TN and WI. The MobilityWorks Commercial Division is Ford Motor Company’s largest mobility upfitter in the commercial van industry manufacturing non-emergency transportation vehicles. The MobilityWorks Commercial division provides the entire U.S. market with custom fleet vehicles such as ambulette vans, shuttle transports and accessible taxis. They are members of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) and Accessible Vans of America (AVA), a national rental organization of mobility van dealers. For additional information about MobilityWorks, go to http://www.mobilityworks.com.

About Handicapped Driver Services
Formed in 1984, Handicapped Driver Services (HDS Vans & Mobility) was one of the first mobility dealers in the country to offer wheelchair vans for rent. HDS offers sales and service of all major lines of adaptive equipment and wheelchair accessible minivans. Their wheelchair van showrooms are located in Birmingham AL, Chattanooga, TN, Jacksonville FL, Marietta GA, and Nashville TN. Certified mobility consultants are on hand at each location to assist with vehicle and equipment selection. HDS is also a member of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA). For additional information about Handicapped Driver Services, go to http://www.hdsvans.com.
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Public Transportation Fleet Saves Big With Versatile Clean Fuel Technology

Posted by admin | Conversion Vans | Tuesday 21 February 2012 6:07 pm

ASHEVILLE, N.C., Feb. 21, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Buncombe County fleet Mountain Mobility has saved thousands in fuel costs since converting 10 passenger vans to clean-burning propane autogas through the Alliance AutoGas complete program. Now they're saving even more with the versatile Prins VSI autogas systems: when Mountain Mobility recently retired two Ford E-350 autogas passenger vans, Alliance seamlessly transferred the autogas systems to newer models.

“When we first considered switching to clean fuel, we were particularly impressed by the transferability of the autogas conversion system used by Alliance,” said Lori Hembree, general manager of Mountain Mobility. “Our community passenger vans see a lot of wear-and-tear and rack up a lot of mileage, so investing in a technology that would quickly become obsolete was just not an option. Alliance made the re-conversion process quick and simple, and had our new autogas vehicles back on the road in no time.”

The Prins Vapor Sequential Injection (VSI) system from Alliance AutoGas co-founding partner American Alternative Fuel is EPA-certified for a range of vehicle platforms. The bi-fuel vapor system is especially cost effective for fleets because it can be transferred from one vehicle to another, unlike many propane-dedicated liquid systems on the market today. When a fleet vehicle is retired, the autogas conversion system is transferrable to any vehicle with the same number of engine cylinders. The retired vehicle can then be re-sold in its original configuration.

“The process of transferring two of our autogas vehicle systems was smooth, easy and efficient,” says Mountain Mobility Operations Manager Bob Somerville. “There was no problem removing the systems and installing them on new vehicles, and they were back up and running so fast, we didn't skip a beat in terms of service to the community. Our drivers really prefer the propane vehicles, in large part because of the convenient on-site fueling station provided by Alliance.”

Mountain Mobility turned to Alliance AutoGas for the autogas vehicle conversions, on-site fuel station installation, staff training, technical support, and fueling from Alliance co-founding partner Blossman Gas.

“Alliance AutoGas has tested virtually every autogas technology available globally, and the Prins VSI system is the most versatile, high quality system for light- and medium-duty fleets,” says Alliance AutoGas president Stuart Weidie. “Alliance is committed to bringing the best autogas technology to more American fleets. And more fleets adopting autogas means cleaner air for our communities.”

Propane autogas burns cleaner than gasoline, and reducing harmful pollutants was a priority for Mountain Mobility. Their drivers have been pleased with the power of the autogas vehicles, reporting greater acceleration when merging onto the interstate and climbing hills. And because 90 percent of the U.S. autogas supply is made in America, autogas fleets like Mountain Mobility are also doing their part to help enhance national energy security.

About Alliance AutoGas

Alliance AutoGas enables fleet managers nationwide to use clean, economical, American-made autogas through vehicle conversions, on-site fueling and ongoing safety training and technical support. Public and private fleets are saving thousands on fuel costs and helping to ensure clean air for future generations through the Alliance AutoGas complete program. The Alliance partner network of U.S. propane marketers and conversion centers is experiencing tremendous growth, currently spanning 34 states. Learn more at: www.allianceautogas.com . For general questions, contact David Finder, National Energy Programs Manager, dmfinder@allianceautogas.com or (828) 251-0027.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://www.cisionwire.com

http://www.cisionwire.com/alliance-autogas/r/public-transportation-fleet-saves-big-with-versatile-clean-fuel-technology,c9223143

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Performance Mobility Attends the 2012 Colorado Garden and Home Show

Posted by admin | Conversion Vans | Friday 17 February 2012 9:39 pm

Performance Mobility will be in attendance at the nine-day 2012 Colorado Garden and Home Show.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) February 17, 2012

The Colorado Garden & Home Show is an event that Performance Mobility has participated in for the past 5 years. Garden enthusiasts and flock to the yearly garden show presented by the Colorado Garden & Home Show. Those who attend the nine-day event have the opportunity to view an acre of exquisitely landscape gardens, learn the latest landscaping ideas, talk to professional home improvement and landscaping experts, attend educational seminars, landscaping demonstrations, showcase exhibits, and much more. New exhibits are introduced every year.

Performance Mobility representatives will be at Booth 2039 featuring the brand new 2012 Honda Odyssey with a full automatic in-floor ramp conversion by Vantage Mobility International (VMI). Another must see vehicle is the handicap accessible 4WD Chevrolet Silverado pick-up truck by GoShichi. This is a really unique truck and something quite new on the market. Mobility Advisors will be there every day so come down to the Colorado Convention Center to see the latest high quality accessible conversions.

Along with a chance to meet Performance Mobility staff and see these great handicap vehicles, money raised from the annual show has also supported projects such as school landscaping, related educational programs, community gardens, and more. Notable projects that received financial support from the Colorado Garden & Home Show include the Craig Hospital for patients with spinal cord and brain injuries, the Historic Rose Garden, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens in Vail, the Hudson Gardens in Littleton, Western Colorado Botanical Society’s “Weddle Native Colorado Garden” in Grand Junction, and a variety of projects at The Denver Botanic Gardens.

The Colorado Garden and Home Show continues through February 19. Stop by the Performance Mobility booth to check out a 2012 Honda Odyssey with the VMI in-floor ramp conversion and the accessible GoShichi Pick-Up Truck.

About Performance Mobility: Performance Mobility provides sales, service and rental of wheelchair accessible vans, scooter and wheelchair lifts, hand controls and other adaptive driving equipment. Performance Mobility is committed to serving the community with exceptional customer service and the highest quality, safest products available for transporting individuals with limited mobility. Performance Mobility serves Colorado, Wyoming, Oregon and Washington states from locations in Denver, Colorado, Colorado Springs, Colorado and Portland, Oregon.

###

Maury Mills
Performance Mobility
(877) 864-8267
Email Information

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Performance Mobility Attends the 2012 Colorado Garden and Home Show

Posted by admin | Conversion Vans | Friday 17 February 2012 9:39 pm

Performance Mobility will be in attendance at the nine-day 2012 Colorado Garden and Home Show.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) February 17, 2012

The Colorado Garden & Home Show is an event that Performance Mobility has participated in for the past 5 years. Garden enthusiasts and flock to the yearly garden show presented by the Colorado Garden & Home Show. Those who attend the nine-day event have the opportunity to view an acre of exquisitely landscape gardens, learn the latest landscaping ideas, talk to professional home improvement and landscaping experts, attend educational seminars, landscaping demonstrations, showcase exhibits, and much more. New exhibits are introduced every year.

Performance Mobility representatives will be at Booth 2039 featuring the brand new 2012 Honda Odyssey with a full automatic in-floor ramp conversion by Vantage Mobility International (VMI). Another must see vehicle is the handicap accessible 4WD Chevrolet Silverado pick-up truck by GoShichi. This is a really unique truck and something quite new on the market. Mobility Advisors will be there every day so come down to the Colorado Convention Center to see the latest high quality accessible conversions.

Along with a chance to meet Performance Mobility staff and see these great handicap vehicles, money raised from the annual show has also supported projects such as school landscaping, related educational programs, community gardens, and more. Notable projects that received financial support from the Colorado Garden & Home Show include the Craig Hospital for patients with spinal cord and brain injuries, the Historic Rose Garden, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens in Vail, the Hudson Gardens in Littleton, Western Colorado Botanical Society’s “Weddle Native Colorado Garden” in Grand Junction, and a variety of projects at The Denver Botanic Gardens.

The Colorado Garden and Home Show continues through February 19. Stop by the Performance Mobility booth to check out a 2012 Honda Odyssey with the VMI in-floor ramp conversion and the accessible GoShichi Pick-Up Truck.

About Performance Mobility: Performance Mobility provides sales, service and rental of wheelchair accessible vans, scooter and wheelchair lifts, hand controls and other adaptive driving equipment. Performance Mobility is committed to serving the community with exceptional customer service and the highest quality, safest products available for transporting individuals with limited mobility. Performance Mobility serves Colorado, Wyoming, Oregon and Washington states from locations in Denver, Colorado, Colorado Springs, Colorado and Portland, Oregon.

###

Maury Mills
Performance Mobility
(877) 864-8267
Email Information

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MBC Group Selects Dalet Media Life as Programming MAM Solution With BFE as Integrator

Posted by adminwp | Conversion Vans | Thursday 16 February 2012 10:17 pm

MAINZ, GERMANY–(Marketwire -02/16/12)- MBC Group has been a leader in broadcast technology and innovation in the MENA region, having made the transition to an entirely tapeless environment with file-based workflows in its programming area in 2010. BFE has worked with MBC Group as their partner of choice throughout the tapeless conversion and also helped plan for the transition from SD to HD. BFE also assisted in defining the new workflows, processes and requirements for the centralized MAM.

Dalet Media Life was selected as the programming MAM for the group's ten TV channels after a rigorous RFP evaluation process that included an on-site proof of concept at MBC's Dubai headquarters. Dalet Media Life includes an open, robust and flexible asset management platform that unifies disparate systems into an integrated workflow that streamlines program preparation and facilitates content delivery to broadcast and other distribution outlets. At MBC Dalet will integrate with several systems including Harris Broadcast Master for scheduling and SGL for archiving.

“The openness of the Dalet solution was a very important aspect of this project,” says Jürgen Loos, Director of Sales for BFE, “Dalet Media Life acts as the structural “glue” between different systems to create a truly seamless workflow with metadata management throughout the entire production and broadcast chain.”

The Dalet MAM platform tracks media, metadata and essences throughout their lifecycle. Assets can be readily searched and retrieved. Even content from archives can easily be restored to production use. Media Life also has fully integrated, task-specific tools that improve productivity throughout the digital production chain. These include tools for content manipulation and program prep, such as ingest, QC, subtitling, and captioning.

About MBC Group
The Middle East Broadcasting Center (MBC) Group, headquartered in Dubai, is the first free-to-air satellite broadcasting company in the Arab World. MBC broadcasts 10 TV channels via satellite, creates several radio programs and boasts a broad online and digital presence. With more than 1,500 staff members worldwide, MBC reaches more than 150 million Arabic speakers in the MENA region and around the world.

About BFE Studio und Medien Systeme
BFE is one of Europe's leading suppliers of broadcast turnkey solutions and media systems. Around 250 employees work in specialized fields such as software engineering, electronics, mechanics, joinery, assembly and quality control. BFE also provides services such as project planning, process and requirements analysis, workflow design, IT system design, installation, commissioning, training and support. By combining audio and video technology with innovative, IT-based solutions, BFE turns customers' requirements into tailor-made systems such as TV and radio studios, transmission lines, editing and archiving systems, OB vans and other media technology applications.

About Dalet
Dalet solutions enable broadcasters and media professionals to create, manage, and distribute content to both traditional and new media channels, including interactive TV, the Web, and mobile networks. Dalet combines, into a single system, a robust and proven Asset Management platform with advanced metadata capabilities, a configurable workflow engine, and a comprehensive set of purpose-built creative and production tools. This integrated and open environment enables end-to-end management of the entire News and Sport and Program content chain for Radio and TV, and allows users to effect significant improvements in efficiency, and to maximize the use and value of their assets. Dalet is traded on the NYSE-EURONEXT stock exchange (Eurolist C): ISIN: FR0011026749, Bloomberg DLT:FP, Reuters: DALE.PA. Dalet is a registered trademark of Dalet Digital Media Systems. All other trademarks and products mentioned herein belong to their respective owners.

BFE Studio und Medien Systeme GmbH
Jürgen Loos, Director of Sales
Phone: +49 6131 946 120
e-mail: jloos@bfe.tv
An der Fahrt 1
55124 Mainz
www.bfe.tv

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Clean Energy Fuels Corp. to Report Fourth Quarter and Year End 2011 Financial Results on March 12; Conference Call to …

Posted by adminwp | Conversion Vans | Tuesday 14 February 2012 5:56 pm

SEAL BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–

Clean Energy Fuels Corp. (Nasdaq:CLNE – News) announced today it will release financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2011, on Monday, March 12, 2012 after market close, followed by an investor conference call at 4:30 p.m. Eastern time (1:30 p.m. Pacific). President and Chief Executive Officer of Clean Energy Andrew J. Littlefair and Chief Financial Officer Rick Wheeler will host the call.

Investors interested in participating in the live call can dial 1-877-407-4018 from the U.S. and international callers can dial 1-201-689-8471. A telephone replay will be available approximately two hours after the call concludes through Thursday, April 12, 2012 by dialing 1-877-870-5176 from the U.S., or 1-858-384-5517 from international locations, and entering Replay Pin Number 387547.

There also will be a simultaneous, live webcast available on the Investor Relations section of the Company’s web site at www.cleanenergyfuels.com, which will be available for replay for 30 days.

About Clean Energy Fuels

Clean Energy (Nasdaq: CLNE – News) is the largest provider of natural gas fuel for transportation in North America and a global leader in the expanding natural gas vehicle market. It has operations in CNG and LNG vehicle fueling, construction and operation of CNG and LNG fueling stations, biomethane production, vehicle conversion and compressor technology.

Today Clean Energy fuels over 25,000 vehicles at 273 strategic locations across the United States and Canada with a broad customer base in the refuse, transit, trucking, shuttle, taxi, airport and municipal fleet markets. We are building “America’s Natural Gas Highway,” a network comprised initially of more than 100 LNG truck fueling stations connecting major freight trucking corridors across the country. Clean Energy del Peru, a joint venture, fuels vehicles and provides CNG to commercial customers in Peru. We own (70%) and operate a landfill gas facility in Dallas, Texas, that produces renewable natural gas, or biomethane, for delivery in the nation’s gas pipeline network, and we plan to build a second facility in Michigan. We own and operate LNG production plants in Willis, Texas, and Boron, Calif., with combined capacity of 260,000 LNG gallons per day and that are designed to expand to 340,000 LNG gallons per day as demand increases. NorthStar, a wholly owned subsidiary, is the recognized leader in LNG/LCNG (liquefied to compressed natural gas) fueling system technologies and station construction and operations. BAF Technologies, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary, is a leading provider of natural gas vehicle systems and conversions for taxis, vans, pick-up trucks and shuttle buses. IMW Industries, Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary based in Canada, is a leading supplier of compressed natural gas equipment for vehicle fueling and industrial applications with more than 1,200 installations in 24 countries. For more information, visit www.cleanenergyfuels.com

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Spartan Motors Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2011 Financial Results

Posted by adminwp | Conversion Vans | Tuesday 14 February 2012 5:56 pm

CHARLOTTE, Mich., Feb. 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Spartan Motors, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAR – News) today announced operating results for the fourth quarter and full year 2011.  Revenues for the fourth quarter of 2011 were $111.2 million, down 12 percent from the fourth quarter of 2010. Most of the decline in sales compared to the fourth quarter of 2010 was due to a non-recurring order for defense parts in the prior year.  Revenue in the fourth quarter of 2011 was also negatively impacted by delayed shipments of the Reach™ commercial van and some walk-in vans. Net income for the fourth quarter of 2011 was $0.7 million, or $0.02 per diluted share, compared to net income of $3.4 million, or $0.10 per diluted share.

Fourth Quarter 2011 Summary:

Net sales of $111.2 million (down 12 percent from Q4 2010 sales of $126.9 million) Gross margin of 13.1 percent of sales (down from 15.3 percent in Q4 2010) Operating expenses of $13.5 million (improved $1.3 million compared to Q4 2010) Net income of $0.7 million ($0.02 per diluted share) Cash generated from operations of $1.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2011 Ending consolidated backlog of $137.0 million (up 1.8 percent from Q4 2010) Total debt of $5.1 million Cash balance of $31.7 million at yearend, an increase of $17.2 million from the end of 2010

“We faced some challenges with top-line growth and gross margins during the fourth quarter, but continued to execute on our diversified growth strategy while controlling our operating costs,” said John Sztykiel, President and CEO of Spartan Motors.  ”Revenue in our Delivery and Service business rose nearly 7 percent in the fourth quarter of 2011 versus the year-ago fourth quarter, and was up nearly 47% for all of 2011.  The performance of our Delivery and Service group demonstrates Spartan's ability to diversify our revenue stream and improve operating income. The performance demonstrated by Delivery and Service, combined with growth in our order backlog at yearend places Spartan in a good position as we enter the first half of 2012.”

Indiana Production Facility Consolidation

Spartan announced it will move its Utilimaster operations to a new leased facility in Bristol, Indiana from its current Wakarusa, Indiana campus in an effort to reduce cost and enhance productivity.  The move to the Bristol facility will consolidate Utilimaster's operations into one large facility from its current campus of 16 buildings.

Mr. Sztykiel commented on the move, “We expect the transfer of Utilimaster to a new facility to result in greater manufacturing efficiency, higher product quality and lower operating costs. This move will reduce the distance a van or truck body travels during assembly from 2.5 miles to less than a half-mile. As a result, we will eliminate a number of non-value added steps such as moving work-in-process from one building to another during production.

“This is the third step of our strategic plan to enhance Utilimaster's performance. Our first step was to improve operating income in the current facilities, task accomplished. The second step was to bring the Reach to market, also accomplished. Our third step is to consolidate Utilimaster into one modern facility in order to enhance operational efficiency and income growth, and position us for future sales growth.”

Management expects the transfer of operations to Bristol to result in annual savings of approximately $4 million due to reduced building maintenance, lower operating costs and the elimination of redundant functions.  Reflecting the current weakness in the commercial real estate market in Wakarusa, the Company will incur an asset impairment charge of $4 – 6 million in the first quarter of 2012 as a result of closing the facility.  The move is expected to begin during the second quarter of 2012 and be completed by yearend.

As the Company announced in its third quarter 2011 press release, Spartan will transfer production of the new Reach delivery vehicle to its Charlotte, Michigan campus and move recreational vehicle (“RV”) chassis manufacture to the new Bristol, Indiana facility. Management expects to reduce costs and improve responsiveness by producing RV chassis closer to its customers in Elkhart County, Indiana.

Spartan Enters Into New Credit Agreement

During the fourth quarter, Spartan entered into an amended and restated five-year credit agreement expiring December 16, 2016.  The amended agreement replaced a three-year agreement dated November 30, 2009. Under the terms of the amended credit agreement, the Company may borrow up to $70 million under a five-year unsecured revolving credit facility. Spartan may also request an increase in the facility of up to $35 million, subject to certain conditions. The Company believes the amended agreement offers favorable terms and covenants, with a longer duration than the prior agreement.

Joe Nowicki, Spartan's Chief Financial Officer, commented on the new credit agreement, “Our new credit agreement is an important step in our efforts to strengthen our balance sheet and position Spartan for future, profitable growth. In addition to our cash balance of nearly $32 million, a five-year credit agreement offers us the ability to fund growth activities, including potential acquisitions, on favorable terms.”

Fourth Quarter 2011 Results

Revenues for the fourth quarter of 2011 were $111.2 million, a drop of 12 percent from $126.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2010. Results reflected weaker demand in Spartan's government-related business units. The Emergency Response Chassis unit outperformed the overall industry, posting revenue that declined 4 percent compared to an industry-wide decline of 20 percent or more during the fourth quarter of 2011. The Service and Delivery unit posted revenue gains for the quarter due in part to strong aftermarket sales, partially offset by delays in shipping a number of walk-in vans and the new Reach commercial van. Shipments of the walk-in vans were delayed by the need to fit an additional component required by updated regulatory requirements, while Reach shipments were held until quality compliance was demonstrated. Subsequent to quarter end, both the walk-in and Reach vans were shipped to customers.

Gross margin as a percentage of sales in the fourth quarter of 2011 was 13.1 percent, down from 15.3 percent in the fourth quarter of 2010. The decline in gross margin was primarily due to the absence of higher-margin aftermarket parts sales in Spartan's defense business, as well as the sale of lower-margin units in the Emergency Response group. Gross margin was also negatively impacted by material shortages in the Service and Delivery group that resulted in less efficient production during the most recent quarter. Gross profit for the fourth quarter of 2011 was $14.5 million compared to $19.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Operating expenses declined in the fourth quarter of 2011 compared to the fourth quarter of 2010. The decline in operating expenses reflected lower revenue that reduced selling expenses, as well as staffing reductions made earlier in the year. Partially offsetting these reductions was the inclusion of expenses for Classic Fire which was not present in 2010 results. Total operating expenses for the fourth quarter of 2011 were $13.5 million compared to $14.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2010.

“During the fourth quarter we faced a number of operating challenges that adversely impacted our revenues and margins,” said Mr. Nowicki.  ”As we grow through these short-term issues, we expect improved revenue growth and gross margins to complement the work we've done to improve our cost structure and strengthen our balance sheet.  We maintained momentum throughout 2011 in controlling working capital and managing our cash conversion cycle.  As a result, we ended the year with nearly $32 million in cash, more than double the level of a year ago.”

Full Year 2011 Results

Revenue for 2011 totaled $426.0 million versus $480.7 million in 2010, a decline of 11.4 percent. Declines in defense-related chassis and service parts sales, along with general softness in most other business units accounted for lower revenue compared to 2010. Partially offsetting weaker segments was the Delivery and Service business, which posted a sales gain of 46.5 percent for the year.

Gross profit for the year totaled $60.6 million, or 14.2 percent of sales, for 2011. For 2010, gross profit totaled $72.5 million, or 15.1 percent of sales. Lower gross profit in 2011 was due to lower total revenue as well as the lack of higher-margin defense parts sales and a less profitable product mix in the Emergency Response Bodies business.

Operating expenses for 2011 declined by $2.5 million, to $59.3 million, from $61.8 million in 2010. Lower operating expenses in 2011 were due to staffing reductions made in the second quarter of 2011 as well as successful cost-control efforts in general. These cost reductions are net of additional costs associated with the Classic Fire acquisition and a $1.1 million accrual for contingent earn-out payments associated with the Utilimaster acquisition.

Operating income for 2011 was $1.3 million versus $10.8 million for 2010. Net income for 2011 was $0.8 million versus $4.1 million in 2010, which included a loss from discontinued operations of $3.1 million. Spartan posted net income of $0.02 per diluted share for 2011 compared to $0.13 per diluted share in 2010 (including losses from discontinued operations of $0.09 per share).

Mr. Sztykiel concluded, “As we focus on 2012, we will continue to execute our plan, a blended strategy of acquisitions, alliances, organic growth and systematically reducing our operating costs. Our total order backlog increased nearly 2 percent over the fourth quarter of 2010, with Utilimaster more than doubling its backlog compared to last year. We reduced the lead time to produce an Emergency Response chassis from seven months to four, significantly shortening our cash conversion cycle. We accomplished all of this despite operating in challenging markets. We are dedicated to capitalizing on the progress we have made and expect to deliver sustained revenue and profit growth in 2012 and beyond.”  

Conference Call, Webcast and Roadcast®

Spartan Motors will host a conference call for analysts and portfolio managers at 10 a.m. ET today to discuss these results and current business trends. To listen to a live webcast of the call, please visit www.spartanmotors.com, click on “Shareholders,” and then on “Webcasts.”

For more information about Spartan, please view the Company's Roadcast “digital road show” designed for investors. To launch the Spartan Motors Roadcast, please visit www.spartanmotors.com and look for the “Virtual Road Show” link on the right side of the page.  

About Spartan Motors

Spartan Motors, Inc. designs, engineers and manufactures specialty chassis, specialty vehicles, truck bodies and aftermarket parts for the recreational vehicle (RV), emergency response, government services, defense, and delivery and service markets. The Company's brand names – Spartan™, Crimson Fire™, Crimson Fire Aerials™, and Utilimaster® – are known for quality, value, service and first-to-market innovation. The Company employs approximately 1,700 associates at facilities in Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Indiana, Florida and Texas. Spartan reported sales of $426 million in 2011 and is focused on becoming a global leader in the design, engineering and manufacture of specialty vehicles and chassis. Visit Spartan Motors at www.spartanmotors.com.

This release contains several forward-looking statements that are not historical facts, including statements concerning our business, strategic position, financial strength, future plans, objectives, and the performance of our products. These statements can be identified by words such as “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “potential,” “future,” “may,” “will,” “should,” and similar expressions regarding future expectations.  These forward-looking statements involve various known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict with regard to timing, extent, and likelihood.  Therefore, actual performance and results may materially differ from what may be expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements.  Factors that could contribute to these differences include operational and other complications that may arise affecting the implementation of our plans and business objectives; continued pressures caused by economic conditions and the pace and extent of the economic recovery; challenges that may arise in connection with the integration of new businesses or assets we acquire or the disposition of assets; issues unique to government contracting, such as competitive bidding processes, qualification requirements, and delays or changes in funding; disruptions within our dealer network; changes in our relationships with major customers, suppliers, or other business partners, including Isuzu; changes in the demand or supply of products within our markets or raw materials needed to manufacture those products; and changes in laws and regulations affecting our business.   Other factors that could affect outcomes are set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which are available at www.sec.gov or our website.  All forward-looking statements in this release are qualified by this paragraph.  Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results.  We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Income

(In thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended December 31,

2011

% of
sales

2010

% of
sales

Sales

$ 111,211

$ 126,875

Cost of products sold

96,680

107,434

Gross profit

14,531

13.1

19,441

15.3

Operating expenses:

Research and development

3,445

3.1

3,968

3.1

Selling, general and administrative

10,054

9.0

10,880

8.6

Total operating expenses

13,499

12.1

14,848

11.7

Operating income

1,032

1.0

4,593

3.6

Other income (expense):

Interest expense

(67)

(0.1)

(138)

(0.1)

Interest and other income (expense)

191

0.2

205

0.2

Total other income (expense)

124

0.1

67

0.1

Earnings before taxes

1,156

1.1

4,660

3.7

Taxes

462

0.4

1,007

0.8

Net earnings from continuing operations

694

0.7

3,653

2.9

Net loss from discontinued operations

(222)

(0.2)

Net earnings

$        694

0.7

$     3,431

2.7

Basic net income (loss) per share

Earnings from continuing operations

$       0.02

$       0.11

Loss from discontinued operations

(0.01)

$       0.02

$       0.10

Diluted net income (loss) per share

Earnings from continuing operations

$       0.02

$       0.11

Loss from discontinued operations

(0.01)

$       0.02

$       0.10

Basic weighted average common shares outstanding

33,596

33,221

Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding

33,613

33,298

Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Income

(In thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)

Twelve Months Ended December 31,

2011

% of
sales

2010

% of
sales

Sales

$ 426,010

$ 480,736

Cost of products sold

363,662

407,201

Restructuring charges

1,731

990

Gross profit

60,617

14.2

72,545

15.1

Operating expenses:

Research and development

13,931

3.3

16,912

3.5

Selling, general and administrative

44,305

10.4

43,869

9.1

Restructuring charges

1,050

0.2

1,006

0.2

Total operating expenses

59,286

13.9

61,787

12.9

Operating income

1,331

0.3

10,758

2.2

Other income (expense):

Interest expense

(324)

(0.1)

(950)

(0.2)

Interest and other income

276

0.1

444

0.1

Total other income (expense)

(48)

(0.0)

(506)

(0.1)

Earnings before taxes

1,283

0.3

10,252

2.1

Taxes

510

0.1

3,017

0.6

Net earnings from continuing operations

773

0.2

7,235

1.5

Net loss from discontinued operations

(3,094)

(0.6)

Net earnings

$        773

0.2

$     4,141

0.9

Basic net earnings (loss) per share

Earnings from continuing operations

$       0.02

$       0.22

Loss from discontinued operations

(0.09)

$       0.02

$       0.13

Diluted net earnings (loss) per share

Earnings from continuing operations

$       0.02

$       0.22

Loss from discontinued operations

(0.09)

$       0.02

$       0.13

Basic weighted average common shares outstanding

33,438

33,021

Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding

33,488

33,101

Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In thousands, except par value)

(Unaudited)

December 31,

December 31,

2011

2010

ASSETS

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

$          31,677

$          14,507

Accounts receivable, less allowance of $749 and $996

40,042

52,542

Inventories

66,991

60,161

Deferred income tax assets

6,425

6,218

Income taxes receivable

1,479

2,890

Other current assets

2,454

3,636

Total current assets

149,068

139,954

Property, plant and equipment, net

65,399

71,268

Goodwill

20,816

18,418

Intangible assets, net

11,943

10,946

Other assets

1,383

1,163

TOTAL ASSETS

$        248,609

$        241,749

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

Current liabilities:

Accounts payable

$          21,649

$          17,970

Accrued warranty

5,802

5,702

Accrued customer rebates

1,546

2,388

Accrued compensation and related taxes

5,670

5,583

Deposits from customers

7,902

3,982

Other current liabilities and accrued expenses

7,772

5,997

Current portion of long-term debt

55

102

Total current liabilities

50,396

41,724

Other non-current liabilities

2,932

4,284

Long-term debt, less current portion

5,084

5,122

Deferred income tax liabilities

7,359

7,640

Shareholders' equity:

Preferred stock, no par value: 2,000

shares authorized (none issued)

Common stock, $0.01 par value; 40,000 shares

authorized; 33,596 and 33,215 outstanding

336

332

Additional paid in capital

71,145

68,715

Retained earnings

111,357

113,932

Total shareholders' equity

182,838

182,979

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

$        248,609

$        241,749

Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Sales and Other Financial Information by Business Segment

Unaudited

Three Months Ended December 31, 2011 (amounts in thousands of dollars)

Business Segments

Delivery &

Specialty

Service

Vehicle

Vehicles

Other

Consolidated

Emergency Response Chassis Sales

29,968

29,968

Emergency Response Body Sales

14,324

14,324

Motorhome Chassis Sales

17,474

17,474

Utilimaster Product Sales

34,364

34,364

Other Product Sales

Vehicles

826

826

Aftermarket Parts and Assemblies

6,734

7,521

14,255

Total Sales

69,326

41,885

111,211

Interest Expense/(Income)

17

(1)

51

67

Depreciation and Amortization Expense

1,183

742

576

2,501

Net Earnings (Loss)

100

969

(375)

694

Year Ended December 31, 2011 (amounts in thousands of dollars)

Business Segments

Delivery &

Specialty

Service

Vehicle

Vehicles

Other

Consolidated

Emergency Response Chassis Sales

106,392

106,392

Emergency Response Body Sales

47,926

47,926

Motorhome Chassis Sales

66,034

66,034

Utilimaster Product Sales

118,810

118,810

Other Product Sales

Vehicles

11,818

11,818

Aftermarket Parts and Assemblies

28,314

46,716

75,030

Total Sales

260,484

165,526

426,010

Interest Expense

41

227

56

324

Depreciation and Amortization Expense

5,048

2,441

2,522

10,011

Net Earnings (Loss)

(2,560)

6,433

(3,100)

773

Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Sales and Other Financial Information by Business Segment

Unaudited

Period End Backlog (amounts in thousands of dollars)

December 31,
2010

March 31,
2011

June 30,
2011

September 30,
2011

December 31,
2011

    Emergency Response Chassis*

53,730

45,351

50,017

48,151

45,567

    Emergency Response Bodies*

26,659

26,477

30,254

26,093

28,432

    Motorhome Chassis *

16,146

12,005

8,306

11,725

10,018

    Other Product *

       Vehicles

8,073

7,436

3,812

1,715

2,287

       Aftermarket Parts and Assemblies

6,019

1,920

2,159

1,203

2,955

         Total Specialty Vehicles

110,627

93,189

94,548

88,887

89,259

    Delivery & Service Vehicles *

23,900

72,904

84,784

53,888

47,694

Total Backlog (Continuing Operations)

134,527

166,093

179,332

142,775

136,953

* Anticipated time to fill backlog orders at December 31, 2011; 5 months or less for emergency response chassis; 6 months or less for emergency response bodies; 2 months or less for motorhome chassis; 5 months or less for delivery and service vehicles; and 1 month or less for other products.

Data for prior quarters include post-period price changes and adjustments

View post:
Spartan Motors Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2011 Financial Results

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LinkShare Search Marketing Clients Outperform Industry While Dramatically Increasing Online Sales

Posted by adminwp | Conversion Vans | Tuesday 14 February 2012 5:56 pm

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–

LinkShare today announced unprecedented client success for its online advertisers using its search marketing managed services. LinkShare’s search marketing services and solutions has enabled advertisers to beat industry average performance metrics for search marketing campaigns while realizing significant increases in online sales.

Specifically, in the fourth quarter of 2011, LinkShare same store search marketing clients saw the following year-over-year increases:

45 percent increase in clicks compared to an industry increase of 21 percent1; 7 percent increase in average order value compared to an industry increase of 5 percent2; 79 percent increase in sales compared to an industry increase of 22 percent3.

On average, LinkShare clients saw a 36 percent increase in clicks, six percent increase in average order value, and 56 percent increase in sales.

“The LinkShare search team is a huge asset to Vans e-commerce,“ said Bryan Stephan, marketing manager, e-commerce, Vans. “They continue to drive sales, stay abreast of industry trends, and provide great support year after year. We consider LinkShare’s search marketing expertise, technology and strategy a critical part of our online success.”

As online activity continues to grow, so does the opportunity to reach client audiences. Advertising in channels beyond paid search such as display, retargeting, YouTube, and Facebook has allowed LinkShare to increase brand exposure and sales for clients. Planning and optimizing for each channel individually, as well as part of a broader marketing plan, has led to greater conversion and profitability.

“In today’s e-commerce environment, maximizing return on investment means more than simple keyword management, it requires strategic planning, advanced technology and certified expertise,” said Yaz Iida, president and CEO of LinkShare. “Our ability to help our clients beat industry averages reflects our commitment to becoming the leading agency for comprehensive search marketing services.”

About LinkShare Corporation

LinkShare Corporation provides ecommerce businesses expert consultative services and technology solutions for affiliate marketing, search marketing and lead generation to acquire new customers, increase revenue and drive results. LinkShare clients are Fortune 500 and prominent companies doing business online, including J.C. Penney, 1-800-Flowers.com, American Express and Avon Products. LinkShare was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in New York City, with offices in San Francisco, Chicago, London and Tokyo. LinkShare is the performance marketing network for Rakuten, one of the world’s largest Internet service companies. For more information, please visit: www.linkshare.com.

About Rakuten

Headquartered in Tokyo, Rakuten is one of the world's largest and most comprehensive Internet service companies, providing leading services in ecommerce, portal & media, travel, financial services, and professional sports. Rakuten focuses on new business development and increasing its scope in order to improve and diversify service offerings. Rakuten is a publicly traded company in Japan (JASDAQ: 4755).

Additional Resources
Check out the LinkShare Blog
Follow us on Twitter @LinkShareblog

1Source: Kenshoo 2011 U.S. Online Retail Holiday Shopping Report, January 10, 2011.
2Source: Ibid.
3Source: Ibid.

Read more:
LinkShare Search Marketing Clients Outperform Industry While Dramatically Increasing Online Sales

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Leading Search Marketing Firm Wpromote Partners with Cutting-Edge Website Design Firm, WebWorks

Posted by adminwp | Conversion Vans | Tuesday 14 February 2012 3:40 am

Partnership will provide affordable, search engine optimized website solutions to small businesses.

El Segundo, CA (PRWEB) February 13, 2012

Wpromote, five-time Inc. 500 Honoree and #1 ranked Search Engine Marketing Firm, is proud to announce their recent partnership with WebWorks & Graphics. WebWorks, a Wpromote SEO client, is known for providing reasonably priced website development and graphic design services for small businesses. This partnership will merge Wpromote and WebWorks’ expertise and technology to provide affordable and simple website solutions for small business clients.

“After spending years struggling with the poor quality of many small business websites based on the jump between ‘inexpensive’ and ‘good,’ our executive team made a concerted effort to find a solution with a partner to provide a product for small businesses that will be appealing, technically sound and absolutely affordable,” said Lonny Schwartz, Wpromote’s Director of Small Business Solutions. “Together, we have worked hard to provide a product that our clients will not only be proud of showing off, but will also be a much stronger conversion platform – really enabling them to get the most out of their advertising investment.”

The website development services will include the creation of a deployed WordPress site customized for each client, which includes search engine optimized content throughout the site. Other imperative SEO factors such as sitemaps, targeted title tags, meta descriptions, and optimized URL structures will also be included as part of the new website at the time of deployment.

These services will be available to small business clients by March 1, 2012. Clients will have the option of monthly payments, so those with a new website presence can break into the market without breaking the bank.

About Wpromote

Wpromote is an award-winning online advertising firm headquartered in El Segundo, CA. Founded in 2001 by Michael Mothner, Wpromote has helped over 37,000 clients grow their businesses online. With unmatched experience in search marketing and an unrivaled dedication to our clients' results, we always stand out above the crowd. The 70+ employees at Wpromote currently manage more than 3,500 clients spanning a wide range of industries and verticals in over 60 countries worldwide. A few integrated search engine marketing clients include Bayer HealthCare, Vans, Toyota, Allied Van Lines, HP, Southern California Edison, Symantec, Fisher-Price and Universal Music Group.

About WebWorks

WebWorks & Graphics has been providing businesses with website development, internet marketing and graphic design services for over a decade. Headquartered in Redondo Beach, CA, they have a dedicated and efficient team of programmers, designers, artists and marketing experts who manage many clients in a wide range of industries.

###

Jamie Lane
Wpromote
310.683.0438
Email Information

See more here:
Leading Search Marketing Firm Wpromote Partners with Cutting-Edge Website Design Firm, WebWorks

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Van values strengthen in the used markets

Posted by admin | Conversion Vans | Monday 13 February 2012 3:01 am

Manheim’s latest monthly Market Analysis for Vans reveals that average wholesale used van values increased by 1.1% (£46 to £4,059) in January indicating an underlying strength to the market.

Overall average age increased by two months to 61 months but average mileage fell 567 miles to 81,878.

When compared with January 2011 average values are 1.9% (£79) lower, average age is 11 months higher and mileage is up 8,249.

Most of the volume vehicle segments experienced very little movement in values.

Examples of other increases in values in January include Tippers, up 4.7% (£225 to £4,985), Boxes & Lutons up 7.0% (£410 to £6,261) and 4x4s up 1.6% (£123 to £7,610). The increases in values were despite a rise in average age for Tippers of four months to 71 months and for Boxes & Lutons of 17 months to 66 months. Meanwhile average values of Buses fell 4.2% (£232 to £5,333).

James Davis, director of commercial vehicles at Manheim Remarketing, said: “The real story in the wholesale van market has been the significant shift in stock profile seen over the last 12 months.

” Not since Manheim began reporting some seven years ago has such a shift been observed.

“This January the average age of vans sold by Manheim was nearly a full year older than the same month in 2011, mileage was up by just over 11% yet average sale values were only down by £79.

“As predicted, the wholesale market has seen an improvement in conversion rates and bid values in January.”

Davis added: “For the first time there is now evidence of a three tier market. There are significant volumes of older higher mileage vehicles and there is also good availability of sub-3 year product as daily rental fleets experience their typical seasonal replacement and de-fleet activity.

“In addition there are the popular mid range, average age/mileage vehicles, which because of increasingly short supply are attracting intense bidding from buyers eager to get their hands on these vehicles.”

See the article here:
Van values strengthen in the used markets

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