A.W. & Sons opens in Maple City
Right off M-72 in Maple City, A.W. & Sons Services: Power Equipment Sales, Parts & Service celebrated a grand opening Friday.
Maple City resident Andrew Wilson decided it was time to take the next step in the business he launched in 2023.
“When we first started, we didn’t know what to expect, but we had to make the sacrifice,” Wilson said. “It’s been hard to keep up we are at that point where we need to hire another person … We’ve been holding off until making the move and being stable to continue on with dreams and passions.”
The new Maple City Store (12899 S. Maple City Rd.) located next door to Gabe’s and Deerings Tree Service is an authorized Ariens dealer and service center; featuring several brands and useful toys that Wilson has had 20+ experience with.
Brands such as Grasshopper, Ariens, Bobcat, Echo, Redmax & Husqvarna, Interstate Batteries and Amsoil can be found at the store. The shelves are stocked with many OEM parts and accessories to keep equipment running smoothly or back to running smoothly in a timely manner.
Wilson prides himself in service of many makes and models of outdoor power equipment and unlike many competitors, Wilson will work on equipment even if it wasn’t purchased there.
After graduating from Traverse City West in 2004, Wilson joined Strickers in Traverse City, where he gained his experience. After the owners retired in 2023, it was time for the Wilson’s to make a go of it.
The cherry on top is he wanted to do it from his home of Maple City.
“Family time is important,” he said. “The amount of customers I’ve gained has been great and people have followed me from Traverse City … even as far as Gaylord and Cadillac.”
Wilson reports that leaf blower and snowblower sales are picking up heading into the fall and that the store has the two largest leafblower packs on the market.
“Sales have been pretty steady and people are getting prepared,” Wilson said.
Wilson and his wife, Amanda, along with five kids: Logan, Holly, Luke, Ellie and Laura.
They all take part as his oldest, Logan, 14, is his right hand man.
His favorite part is wrenching and engine replacements.
Wilson admits he’s looking at the dog days of winter with a question mark.
“There was always a slow period at Stricker, but we have not had that these past three winters,” Wilson said. “I don’t know what to expect, a lot will depend on the weather … We are very thankful to the community and the support we’ve gained through so many new friends. I saw a huge need and we are out there to help people.”
