Power Equipment Systems to distribute Kohler Engines in western U.S.

PES acquired the rights from H.G. Makelim, which is undergoing leadership changes as President Jim Hess retires.

KOHLER, Wis. – Power Equipment Systems, located in Salem, Oregon, has acquired distribution rights for Kohler Engines from H.G. Makelim, based in San Francisco.

The transition, which goes into effect on March 1, coincides with the announced retirement of Jim Hess, the president of H.G. Makelim. PES has represented Kohler Engines in the states of Washington, Oregon, and northern Idaho for decades and now takes on additional distribution responsibilities for the manufacturer’s gasoline engines, diesel engines and service parts in Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, California, Hawaii, southern Idaho and western Nebraska.

“Having worked with PES for a long time, we anticipate an incredibly smooth transition and a seamless continuation of the passionate and attentive service they’ve always provided to our customers,” said Chris Rector, director of distribution sales and service for Kohler Engines. “Of course, we also express our appreciation to H.G. Makelim – a trusted and dedicated partner that has worked very hard on behalf of Kohler Engines through the years.”

PES is a family-owned company operating out of a newly constructed 120,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Salem and has represented Kohler Engines since 2001.