The local, family-owned Handy Rents is celebrating its diamond anniversary helping contractors and homeowners access the tools and equipment they need to get the job done right
By Mitch Allen
Given that 20 percent of businesses fail within the first two years, and only 5 percent make it to 30 years, achieving 60 years is a milestone indeed. That’s the case with the locally-owned tool rental company Handy Rents, which this year is celebrating its diamond anniversary.
The firm hasn’t just survived, it’s thrived, growing over the decades to seven Northeast Ohio locations and adding a sister brand—Aladdin Rents—which focuses on the events, from back yard weddings to full-scale festivals.
Handy Rents’ success is rooted in the Miller family’s commitment to growth. That, and one other thing.
“People,” says Mike Miller, who along with his wife Terrie purchased Handy Rents in 1983. “Our success is due to our employees—many have been here 10 to 35 years—and the loyalty of our customers. It’s rewarding to know we are now serving the children and grandchildren of our first customers.”
And having those seven locations has big strategic advantages. “We’re close by whenever and wherever you need us,” says Patrick Miller, Mike and Terrie’s son who serves as the company’s vice-president and general manager. “Having multiple locations also means we have plenty of inventory for contractors and homeowners, and career opportunities for our employees.”
Patrick was born on the day the Millers signed the paperwork to purchase the business back in 1983. “It was as if it was meant to be,” Terrie smiles. The couple’s son, Christopher, who prefers the moniker “C-Dog,” also works for the company.
For Contractors and Homeowners
Renting tools for a project is smart for both professionals and DIYers. “Contractors rely on us to ensure they get the job done safely and efficiently—time is money—and to supplement their own tool inventory instead of making additional capital investments,” Mike explains. “And homeowners rely on us to prevent the frustration that comes from not having the right tool to complete a DIY project.”
There’s no reason to feel intimidated by Handy Rents’ high-quality, commercial-grade equipment. The staff makes sure you know how to properly use each piece of equipment before you leave the store.
Purchasing well-maintained used equipment from Handy Rents is smart, too. Used tools come up for sale because Mike and his team are constantly upgrading their inventory to stay ahead of demand. Right now they’re adding more commercial-grade, battery-powered equipment. “These tools are quieter, easier to use and maintain, and don’t require fuel,” Mike says.
Handy Rents’ long list of brands includes John Deere, Hilti, Multiquip, Barreto and Husqvarna.
Giving Back
Handy Rents is an active supporter of the community and is well known for providing training programs for the developmentally disabled.
“We offer on-the-job training for special needs workers,” Terrie says. “School systems bring students here to get valuable training, learn how to work with other people, and find job placement in the community. These workers can make such a positive difference for a business, and that helps them build self-esteem.”
If you’re planning an event, know that the Miller Family’s Aladdin Rents can supply you with everything you need for the perfect party—from tables, tents and chairs to dishes, flatware, linens, grills, concessions and even party games.
“No event is too big or too small,” Mike says. “We do birthday parties all the way up to The Fest, the annual event where we set up 180 tents.”
Handy Rents is at 7812 East Washington Street in Chagrin Falls. Other locations include Cleveland Heights, Eastlake, Elyria, Mayfield, Lorain, and Painesville. For more info, including a list of available tools, visit HandyRents.com. You’ll find Aladdin Rents at 35761 Curtis Blvd., in Eastlake. The website is AladdinRents.com. Visit the website regularly for special 60th anniversary discounts and promotions going on all year.