OPEI Annual Meeting Addresses Industry Uncertainty in Savannah

Kris Kiser, President and CEO of OPEI, underscored the necessity of collaborative strategy during the sessions, noting that the association’s role in providing context has become vital as manufacturers face ongoing policy challenges. Discussions ranged from consumer product safety and engine emissions to the complexities of right-to-repair legislation and battery recycling mandates.

The event featured insights from a diverse panel of experts, including former U.S. Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul and CBS political analyst Robert Costa, who broke down the current state of international trade and domestic politics. Economists such as Dr. Peter Rupert and industry forecaster Grant Farnsworth provided data-driven outlooks to help members prepare for potential market shifts.

Leadership transitions also marked the gathering. Harold Redman, President and CEO of Echo Incorporated, assumed the role of board chair, succeeding Rick Olson of The Toro Company. Nelson Wilner of Kawasaki was named Vice Chair, while Tom Rugg of Briggs & Stratton joined the Executive Committee as Secretary/Treasurer. With the Equip Exposition trade show sold out for the fifth consecutive year, the association plans to reconvene in Santa Fe, New Mexico, in June 2027.