Community Engagement Through Innovation: AVR Inc.’s Heartwarming Initiative

Founded in 1966 by Mathias Fischer, AVR Inc., originally known as Apple Valley Red-E-Mix, has grown from a simple concrete plant into a significant player in the Twin Cities’ construction landscape. Starting with just a few mixer trucks, the company expanded significantly, especially through strategic acquisitions like those of Suburban Concrete and Western Concrete in 1973, which made AVR a notable name in the local market. By the mid-1980s, under Mathias and his wife Ann’s leadership, the company was reorganized into AVR, with further growth through the acquisition of AME Red-E-Mix in 1988 and their first pump in 1995.

A NEW VISION: PUMPS AS PLATFORMS FOR ADVOCACY

Dan Rentz of AVR has taken a unique approach in giving back to the community by using their concrete pumps as canvases for advocacy. Their initiative focuses on raising awareness for cancer, autism and supporting first responders. What prompted this shift in their business model? The team at AVR grew tired of always waiting on pump companies and paying surcharges for delays, which inspired them to take control by adding pumps to their operations. Today, they own six pumps total, including three from Betonstar, giving them the autonomy to serve their customers more efficiently while turning these machines into platforms for a greater purpose.

When asked about the inspiration for this project, Rentz shared that personal experiences with these causes drove their commitment. “Seeing the challenges faced by those with autism, the battle against cancer within our community and the daily sacrifices of first responders, we felt compelled to use our resources to make a difference,” he noted. This initiative was born from a desire to intertwine business operations with community support, making every concrete pour an opportunity for positive impact.

Wrapping concrete pumps with vibrant, cause-specific designs turns them into moving billboards. This approach not only grabs attention, but also starts conversations at construction sites and beyond, places where traditional advocacy might not reach. “Our pumps become a part of the community’s narrative, sparking discussions and raising awareness in a unique way,” Rentz explained. While they’ve worked on various projects, AVR isn’t chasing high-profile jobs for the sake of fame. “We’re not in it for the show,” he emphasized. “We really like to serve our customers right, and that’s what drives us.”

COMMUNITY AND INDUSTRY RESPONSE

The community has responded with overwhelming positivity. “People often stop by to take photos or simply to read the messages on our pumps,” said Rentz. They’ve garnered attention throughout the community, with people talking about them whenever they spot the distinctive pumps. There’s been an increase in awareness and support, with some community members even donating directly to related charities after seeing the wrapped pumps. Within the construction industry, AVR’s initiative has been met with admiration, inspiring other businesses to consider similar community-focused strategies. While they haven’t received formal recognition from media outlets, the buzz within the community speaks volumes about their impact.

Logistically, ensuring the designs withstand the harsh conditions of construction sites was a challenge. Financially, the cost of high-quality vinyl wraps was significant, but AVR views it as an investment in their community. Selecting appropriate colors and designs involved collaboration with organizations linked to each cause to ensure respectful and accurate representation. As for support from their pump supplier, Betonstar wanted to make sure that the AVR brand and community support would become more recognized for what they’ve enabled through this creative endeavor.

MEASURING SUCCESS

Success for AVR is measured not just in numbers but in stories — stories of increased awareness, community engagement, and direct support for the causes. Feedback from community events, social media interaction, and partnerships with charities provide tangible metrics of impact.

Looking forward, AVR aims to expand this initiative, possibly including other types of equipment and collaborating with more organizations. “We hope to make this a broader movement within our industry, where every piece of machinery can tell a story of support and hope,” Rentz shared. Future goals include refining their approach to make the initiative even more effective and perhaps expanding to new causes based on community need.

AVR’s innovative use of concrete pumps for advocacy showcases how businesses can be pivotal in community support, blending operational prowess with social responsibility. By turning their machinery into ambassadors of hope and awareness, AVR not only builds structures but also strengthens the community fabric, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond concrete.