Calabash Outdoors Solves Gunite and Concrete Challenges with Volumetric Mixers
Based in Orlando, Florida, Calabash Outdoors began in 2018 when Chris Brosche and Felipe Bravo saw an opportunity to address the high demand for gunite services in the area. With decades of experience in pool construction and gunite, they quickly expanded their operations beyond Orlando, serving Tampa, West Palm Beach, and other cities. Today, Calabash Outdoors is a leader in Florida’s concrete and gunite industry.
Facing Growing Pains with Outdated Equipment
As Calabash grew, so did their operational challenges. They needed reliable equipment to keep up with demand and wanted to educate clients about the potential of volumetric concrete mixers. Their goal was to use one type of equipment to handle both gunite and concrete pouring efficiently. But their existing supplier’s equipment fell short.
“We had a conflict with our regular supplier, which was another volumetric company, which are dinosaurs compared to what you guys offer,” said Bravo. He noted that the training on their old equipment was complicated and the parts unreliable.
A Better Solution with Cemen Tech Mixers
When a salesperson from Cemen Tech introduced Chris to the benefits of their volumetric mixers, Calabash decided to make the switch. Starting with two trucks, the company’s fleet quickly grew to eight. These mixers—with simpler training, fewer moving parts, and reliable performance—made operations smoother from the start.
“Cemen Tech training was easier, less moving parts, more dependable. We have not had major problems with any of them. The training, once you learn Cemen Tech…you learn one, you learn them both,” explained Bravo.
Streamlined Operations with ACCU-POUR™
To further simplify their growing operations, Calabash is adding ACCU-POUR™, Cemen Tech’s fleet management system. This smart technology will help with scheduling, billing, and vehicle tracking, addressing logistical challenges as the company scales.
Reliable Support Every Step of the Way
Cemen Tech’s partnership with Dobbs Equipment has been another game-changer for Calabash.
“Our sales team has been amazing. They service anything we need,” said Brosche. “They keep all the parts in stock, so our downtime is drastically less, which is a huge thing for us.”
Bravo echoed this sentiment: “We call it in, they have it in stock, they ship it overnight. I have telephone numbers for support guys that will…replace it, whatever they can. They’re always on the phone. They have this system CONNECT where we can video call with them.”
More Efficiency, Less Waste
The switch to volumetric mixers has transformed Calabash’s operations. The mixers allow for flexibility in job sizes and eliminate material waste by enabling the company to pause between pours. Fewer trucks are needed to serve customers faster and more efficiently.
Educating Clients and Building Trust
An unexpected benefit? The volumetric trucks sparked interest from customers. Clients were fascinated by their capabilities, giving Calabash the chance to educate them on the benefits of this technology.
Giving Back to the Community
Calabash isn’t just about business—they’re also dedicated to their community. The company has been a long-time supporter of the Gina McReynolds Foundation, which helps families battling breast cancer.
“It was started 11 years ago for one of my best friend’s wife who was pregnant with her third child when she found out she had breast cancer,” explained Brosche. “Through spring of 2023, we’ve helped over 200 families…covering out-of-pocket expenses, deductibles, taking them to doctor’s appointments.”
This partnership has fostered a strong support network for women fighting breast cancer, with “Gina’s girls” offering mutual encouragement and camaraderie.
Positioned for Continued Growth
Calabash Outdoors’ decision to invest in Cemen Tech volumetric mixers has not only improved their operations but also strengthened their customer relationships and community presence. With plans to implement ACCU-POUR™ and their commitment to innovation, they are well-positioned to continue growing across Florida.
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Calabash Outdoors Success
Calabash Outdoors improved concrete operations and saved time by switching to Cemen Tech volumetric mixers.