For the past 10 years, Darryl and Jordan Rachar have been part of Cochrane’s growth – in quite a literal sense. As co-owners and operators of Cochrane Rental Centre, the father-son duo has provided the power and carpentry tools, cementing and painting implements, skid steers, excavators and other equipment the town has used to build, expand and prosper.
“We do a little bit of everything,” explains Jordan Rachar, the junior of the pair. “A lot of it’s related to construction equipment, home renovations and DIY projects. Our skid steers, excavators and post augers are popular, and we also have aerial equipment like man lifts and scissor lifts.”
They also rent heaters in winter time. Already set up to fill propane tanks for other equipment, they’re able to fill propane bottles for the public at a reduced rate.
But before the winter chill sets in, the Rachars have some celebrating to do. Through the entire month of September, Cochrane Rental Centre will be celebrating its decade in business with door prizes and draws.
“One of the bigger prizes is a chainsaw, but customers can win all sorts of things,” says Jordan. “We’ll be drawing for a knife, for gift cards and for a number of different things we sell.”
And every Friday in September, visitors to the store will be treated to a free, delicious snack. “When you come in,” says Jordan, “there will be fresh cinnamon buns made by Guy’s Bakery.”
Cochrane Rental Centre is marking its anniversary as a thank-you to area customers who have supported the business over the last 10 years.
“Cochrane is growing a lot, and it’s great to be part of this community,” Jordan reflects. “It’s filled with really great people and we’re absolutely spoiled to be able to do business here. This is a thank-you for all the support.”
Jordan emphasizes that, as a family-run business, Cochrane Rental Centre’s workforce is entirely local. He, himself, lives in Cochrane and oversees the day-to-day management of the store. His father Darryl, he says, is in the shop from time to time, but also works from home.
“It sounds cliche, but it’s great working with my dad,” says Jordan. “We get along great, and I’m pretty fortunate to have the guidance that I do.”
Cochrane Rental Centre is located at 41070 Cook Rd #1 in Cochrane, in the Cochrane Desert Industrial Park. The store can be reached by calling (403) 851-9997, and information about each of its rental products can be browsed on its website.