Chainsaw Repair

Part 9

One of their first decisions was to sell the resource recovery operation and not seek any additional contracts in the waste-to-energy business. Their second decision involved a stronger commitment to manufacturing, including outdoor products, such as saw chains and specialty riding mowers; industrial and power equipment, such as industrial tractors and equipment for timber harvesting and loading; and sporting equipment, such as small arms ammunition, gun scopes, and gun care equipment. The company's overall realignment worked. In 1993, revenues increased to over $691 million from a 1992 figure of $637 million.

Exiting Construction in 1994
In early 1994, management decided to sell almost all of its construction business to Montgomery's Caddell Construction Company, headed by one of Blount's former employees. This decision opened the way for the company to eliminate the substantial operating losses its construction business experienced in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Although revenues dropped sharply as a result of this move, Blount was able to focus entirely on its three remaining divisions of outdoor products, sports equipment, and industrial equipment. Finally rid of the lingering effects of a worldwide slowdown in the construction industry, Blount's prospects for the future appeared much brighter.

Blount announced agreements to acquire Simmons Outdoor in late 1995, and Frederick Manufacturing and Orbex in late 1996. Frederick was a Kansas City maker of lawn mower accessories. Orbex made a variety of outdoor products and Simmons, sporting optics. These acquisitions were soon consolidated into the new Sporting Equipment Group.