Germantown, Wis.-based Equipro, a subsidiary of Wacker, and a nationwide network of independently owned light construction equipment service centers, recently announced its strategic alliance with Lincoln Electric, a provider of arc welding products, robotic welding systems, and plasma and oxyfuel cutting equipment.

“We are excited to partner with Lincoln Electric," said Peter Liesch, president of Equipro.“The company’s commitment to providing the most innovative, cost-effective, quality welding and cutting solutions for more than 100 years, coupled with its technological leadership and worldwide manufacturing and distribution resources, is a perfect addition to Equipro's nationwide service alliance of original equipment manufacturing partners."

Equipro will start providing service to Lincoln Electric products as early as this month at its 12 service centers nationwide.

Equipro is working to fill the growing service gap in the multi-billion dollar construction equipment repair industry, the company says. According to Liesch, many national and regional dealers have cut back on service and parts support, resulting in longer downtime, longer replacement equipment rental periods, and greater expense for the customer. Equipro aims to provide a cost-effective, high-quality repair alternative to traditional independent service centers.

Equipro's current non-competing alliance partners include ICS, Mi-T-M, MK Diamond, Sullair and Wacker, with expectations to add between two and four more major manufacturing partners to complete the business model.

Equipro services some of the most commonly used equipment in the light construction industry including concrete chain saws, pressure washers, portable air compressors, pneumatic tools, floor saws, rammers, vibroplates, rollers, generators and pumps.

Additionally, Equipro Service Centers provide support for the engines on equipment. Authorized full-service repair, parts and warranty support are available for Briggs & Stratton-, Honda-, Kohler-, Robin Subaru- and Wacker-powered equipment.