MONTGOMERY - G&M Bandsaw is changing and diversifying.
Long known as a local business that serviced and manufactured bandsaws, it has now expanded to sell additional supplies and accessories for contractors, industrial customers and hobbyists.
"This has been in the works for four years," said Chet James, who purchased the business in 1996.
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MIKE REUTHER/Sun-Gazette
Products line the shelves at G&M Bandsaw in Montgomery, an area firm diversifying its line of products and services.
James stood in the showroom which was recently added to the business located along Route 15 in Clinton Township.
"It's ideal for what we are looking to do with the retail store," he said.
Bandsaw blades, metal cutting circular saws and blades, power tools, abrasive products, and filing room equipment and supplies are among the items sold at the business.
Store manager Rick Wisner said G&M Bandsaw is a unique place that caters to its patrons.
"We want customers to enjoy coming here," he said. "We're not some big box store. We want to be different from that."
Added James: "We are totally local."
All told, about 3,000 square feet of space has been added to the business for the showroom and retail store.
"We are committed to the area. There is our home," James said.
But the company serves customers from a number of states including Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, West Virginia, Michigan, Virginia, New York, and New Jersey.
"I like working with my suppliers," James said. "We are trying to do as much business in the U.S. as possible."
James got into the business after working for Agway.
But he wanted to have his own business and gave up steady employment to take a chance 16 years ago.
"I had no experience at it," he said. "I started with five employees."
He now has 17 employees and is looking to expand even more.
It could include opening other locations.
Despite the changes and new offerings, G&M Bandsaw continues to remain true to its origins.
"We manufacture bandsaws for the lumber industry," James said. "That's what the company started as."
Back in the service department, workers can be found servicing bandsaw machines and sharpening, repairing, grinding and aligning blades of all sizes and types.
Among the industries the business services are sawmills, pallet manufacturers, loggers, and furniture and musical instrument manufacturers.
The saws are used for cutting wood, metal, plastic and meat.
G&M Bandsaw will hold a ribbon cutting event 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 20 to introduce its showroom and store to the public.
The event will include product demonstrations, food, giveaways, and product specials.
Those attending may bring non-perishable food items or make donations in support of the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank.
