In the News
Check out all the latest in Otis product and company news! We’ve got the lowdown on what’s new in gun cleaning and the industry and we’re happy to share with you. Stay tuned for more info on what’s new with Otis.
OTIS TECHNOLOGY ANNOUNCES CEO APPOINTMENT
Lyons Falls, NY: In a company meeting yesterday, the Board of Advisors of Otis Technology announced to its employees that Larry Williams will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer, effective July 9, 2018.
Otis Technology was founded 33 years ago by the Williams family and has grown to be the premier brand of gun cleaning equipment and related accessories for the U.S. Military, Law Enforcement, and sport shooters worldwide. Larry has been an integral part of the company for over 20 years. He led the operations function for many years, working diligently to push the envelope when it came to operational excellence. He was the driving force for shifting the Otis culture to that of a lean organization.
In 2013, Mr. Williams assumed a role on the Advisory Board among his siblings where his focus became more strategic in nature and mentored a team of senior managers, including current CEO Leonard Puzzuoli, to carry out strategic initiatives. He continued to take on special projects within various departments, helping them achieve efficiency, cost savings, growth or other key objectives.
Otis Technology was founded in 1985 by Doreen Williams. She and her siblings – Larry Williams, Denise Miller and Nick Williams, together with their parents, Jerry & Lori Williams, worked tirelessly to position Otis as the leader in firearms maintenance products. Doreen was CEO for 28 years before assuming her current role as Chairwoman of the Board.
Mr. Puzzuoli has been with Otis Technology for nine years, succeeding Williams in the CEO role for the past five years. He will assist in the transition over the next month and will be leaving the company. The Board would like to thank Len for his years of service as both CFO and CEO. Under Len’s leadership, Otis has recognized continued success in manufacturing excellence, product launches and sales channel expansion.
Mr. Williams commented, “I recognize the responsibilities and challenges ahead of us, and look forward to guiding Otis. We are excited to continue to exceed our customers’ needs and expectations. I appreciate the confidence the Advisory Board has shown in me and the entire Otis team.”
Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most advanced gun cleaning systems and accessories available. The superior Breech-to-Muzzle® design combined with unmatched quality has positioned Otis as the gun care system of choice with the US Military.
OTIS LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITES
Lyons Falls, NY: Otis is excited to announce the launch of two new websites, otistec.com and otisdefense.com. These websites debut Otis Technology’s newest branding, which will appear on all packaging and collateral in 2018.
The websites boast significant improvements in user experience through easier main navigations, filtering and searching. The layouts of the websites are more intuitive for ease of use, whether browsing for information or completing a purchase. In addition, the importance of Otis Technology’s defense business commanded a dedicated site to its military and law enforcement products through otisdefense.com.
“Our website redesign was long overdue and these new sites are a more accurate reflection of our brand and quality standards,” stated Heather Pleskach, associate director of marketing at Otis Technology. She continued, “otistec.com and otisdefense.com better cater to our diverse users and the specific information they are looking for in regards to our products and our business. Users can now navigate quickly and easily on the sites and the robust nature demonstrates our world-class customer service, allowing us to serve our customers better.”
Otis Technology partnered with Gray Loon Marketing Group for the development of the two new websites. “Their professionalism and attention to detail was critical to the success of this launch. They delivered exactly to the scope of the project and exceeded our expectations throughout the process. We are thrilled with the results.” remarked Hannah Roukous, digital marketing coordinator at Otis Technology.
To commemorate the launch, all new accounts created at otistec.com will be automatically entered for a chance to win a .308cal Thompson Center Encore Pro Hunter. The rifle features custom detailing courtesy of 1776 Gunsmithing and is topped with a Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm Matte Duplex Scope. Included with the rifle is the Otis Elite Range Box packed full of gun cleaning gear. Winner will be drawn February 19, 2018.
Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most advanced gun cleaning systems and accessories available. The superior Breech-to-Muzzle® design combined with unmatched quality has positioned Otis as the gun care system of choice with the US Military. Otis Technology is SMART GUN CARE.
OTIS ANNOUNCES NEW PRODUCTS FOR 2017
Lyons Falls, NY: Otis Technology is proud to announce its new products for 2017. These products will debut at the 2017 Shooting, Hunting, Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show on January 17-20, 2017 in Las Vegas, NV.
The PATRIOT series of firearm cleaning kits by Otis will make their first debut at the show. These cleaning kits offer the basic Breech-to-Muzzle® cleaning gear packed simply in a hard plastic case. Each kit is caliber specific and is available in 8 configurations, ranging from .17 caliber to 12 gauge. With a suggested retail price of $19.99 to $24.99, consumers can pick up several cleaning kits to fit their needs.
The Otis line of Smart Cleaners, Lubricants, Protectants and CLPs will make their official product launch at the show. This complete line of over twenty SKUs offers next generation protection for firearms. A majority of the line is biodegradable offering a powerful formula that is also safe for the environment. Couple them with an Otis Breech-to-Muzzle® cleaning system for superior firearm maintenance.
The company is also announcing its DEFENDER Series cleaning systems. Available in nine configurations, these cleaning systems feature three ways of cleaning in one convenient system: Memory-Flex® cables, Ripcord® one pass cleaning tools and solid rods are included. Configurations are available in single caliber or multi caliber cleaning systems in .223cal/5.56mm, .308cal/7.62mm, .38cal/9mm, .40cal or .45cal.
Otis has also revamped some of its accessories. Bore brushes are available in two-packs featuring one nylon and one bronze bristled brush. They are available in .22 caliber to 12 gauge and are at a suggested retail of $1.99 to $2.49. Otis All Purpose Receiver brushes are available in several different variety three-packs and feature a smaller package size. Lastly, Otis will debut a 3 pack of reusable microfiber gun cloths.
For resellers, Otis Technology has revamped is display merchandising program and offers five new display options in three different sizes. Each display features top-selling Otis products – ranging from cleaning systems & accessories to Ripcord®, chemicals and hearing protection. Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most advanced gun cleaning systems available. The superior Breech-to-Muzzle® design combined with unmatched quality has positioned Otis as the gun care system of choice with the US Military. Otis Technology is SMART GUN CARE.
OTIS BOOTH EVENTS & SPECIALS AT SHOT SHOW 2017
Lyons Falls, NY: Otis is excited to announce its presence at the 2017 Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor (SHOT) show in Las Vegas on January 17th – 20th. The Otis booth can be found in the same location as prior years, at booth number 14213.
Otis welcomes interested buyers to stop by the booth to learn about its line of gun cleaning supplies and accessories and sign on as a dealer direct with the company. Otis encourages current Otis dealers to stop by as well to learn about new product offerings and place reorders to stock their shelves.
New and existing dealers are eligible to take advantage of the show special. By placing a qualifying order, dealers will be able to select a Fortune Cookie. Each cookie’s “fortune” indicates a percent off their order, ranging from 10% up to 50% off their order. Qualifying orders placed at the show will also receive free standard shipping.
To end day one of the show, stop by the booth for a beer and light snacks. Happy Hour will take place Tuesday afternoon from 4:00pm – 5:30pm. The Otis staff looks forward to meeting and chatting with show attendees about the company and its products.
Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most advanced gun cleaning systems available. The superior Breech-to-Muzzle® design combined with unmatched quality has positioned Otis as the gun care system of choice with the US Military. Otis Technology is SMART GUN CARE.
OTIS TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT SALES AGENCIES
Lyons Falls, NY: Otis Technology is pleased to announce new sales partnerships with Keystone Manufacturer’s Representatives, Odle Sales and Ron Macy Associates, Inc. These new partnerships provide Otis with additional sales support across the United States. Each agency’s professional sales teams will represent Otis in the state, local and federal enforcement markets, including wholesale and retail channels.
Keystone Manufacturer’s Representatives are located in Cheltenham, PA and will be responsible for the Eastern US region. Ken Hellendall, Principle, states “We are excited about adding Otis to our tactical product lines and Keystone is honored to join the Otis team.” He continues, “We welcome the opportunity to bring the Otis name to the Public Safety community.”
Odle Sales is located in Columbia, MO and covers the Central region of the US. Jim Lund, LE Business Unit Manager for Odle Sales states, “We are very excited to partner with a world class organization such as Otis to bring their exciting line of products to the Law Enforcement Market; their commitment and passion to Law Enforcement is impressive.”
Ron Macy Associates, Inc. is headquartered in Murrieta, CA and will handle parts of the Western US. “We at Ron Macy Associates Inc. were very happy to be appointed the Law Enforcement Reps for Otis for CA, NV, AZ & HI” states Ron Macy, Principle. He continues, “We are looking forward to working with their team to increase their Law Enforcement business in our area.”
The internal Otis Technology sales team will continue to support marketing, customer service, and warranty support through their Lyons Falls, New York facility while working closely with each sales agency. “We are thrilled to work with these three new sales agencies. Each is top of their game in their respective territories and is dedicated to the sales of top brands of quality law enforcement gear,” states Brad McIntyre, Vice President of International/Military Sales for Otis Technology. He continues, “In our combined endeavors, we’re wholly committed to supporting our fine men and women in Uniform by providing the best equipment and service possible.”
Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most advanced gun cleaning systems and accessories available. The superior Breech-to-Muzzle® design combined with unmatched quality has positioned Otis as the gun care system of choice with the US Military. Otis Technology is SMART GUN CARE.
OTIS TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT SALES AGENCIES
Lyons Falls, NY: Otis Technology is pleased to announce new sales partnerships with Keystone Manufacturer’s Representatives, Odle Sales and Ron Macy Associates, Inc. These new partnerships provide Otis with additional sales support across the United States. Each agency’s professional sales teams will represent Otis in the state, local and federal enforcement markets, including wholesale and retail channels.
Keystone Manufacturer’s Representatives are located in Cheltenham, PA and will be responsible for the Eastern US region. Ken Hellendall, Principle, states “We are excited about adding Otis to our tactical product lines and Keystone is honored to join the Otis team.” He continues, “We welcome the opportunity to bring the Otis name to the Public Safety community.”
Odle Sales is located in Columbia, MO and covers the Central region of the US. Jim Lund, LE Business Unit Manager for Odle Sales states, “We are very excited to partner with a world class organization such as Otis to bring their exciting line of products to the Law Enforcement Market; their commitment and passion to Law Enforcement is impressive.”
Ron Macy Associates, Inc. is headquartered in Murrieta, CA and will handle parts of the Western US. “We at Ron Macy Associates Inc. were very happy to be appointed the Law Enforcement Reps for Otis for CA, NV, AZ & HI” states Ron Macy, Principle. He continues, “We are looking forward to working with their team to increase their Law Enforcement business in our area.”
The internal Otis Technology sales team will continue to support marketing, customer service, and warranty support through their Lyons Falls, New York facility while working closely with each sales agency. “We are thrilled to work with these three new sales agencies. Each is top of their game in their respective territories and is dedicated to the sales of top brands of quality law enforcement gear,” states Brad McIntyre, Vice President of International/Military Sales for Otis Technology. He continues, “In our combined endeavors, we’re wholly committed to supporting our fine men and women in Uniform by providing the best equipment and service possible.”
Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most advanced gun cleaning systems and accessories available. The superior Breech-to-Muzzle® design combined with unmatched quality has positioned Otis as the gun care system of choice with the US Military. Otis Technology is SMART GUN CARE.
OTIS TECHNOLOGY BOLSTERS SALES & MARKETING TEAMS
Lyons Falls, NY: Otis Technology is excited to announce several new hires and promotions to the sales and marketing teams within the organization. The team’s expansion is geared to drive growth for the brand in both the sporting goods as well as defense/international channels.
Otis welcomes Kenda Campbell as Western Region Sales Manager. Kenda brings over 12 years of sales experience in the outdoor industry. She previously held the role of National Sales Manager for Altus Brands. Prior to Altus Brands, she was the Director of Sales for The Outdoor Connection.
Kenda joins Jeff Scarlett and Tom Knudtson who cover the Eastern and Central Regions of the U.S., respectively. Rounding out the team is Heather Hlad, recently promoted to Mass Merchant & E-Commerce Sales Manager where her responsibilities include accounts such as Walmart. Heather has been in a sales role with Otis Technology for almost ten years.
Wendy Moser, formally Inside Sales Assistant, was promoted to Inside Sales/Customer Service Manager. Wendy leads the customer service/inside sales team in its endeavor to deliver world-class service and support to its customers.
The sporting goods sales team is led by Francis Devlin. Promoted to Director of Commercial Sales in 2016, Frank has been in a sales leadership role with Otis since 2011 and has led the team in consistent year over year sales growth.
Otis congratulates Brad McIntyre in his new role as Vice President of International/Government Sales. Brad oversees a sales force geared toward driving sales both internationally and domestically through government channels. Brad started his career at Otis over sixteen years ago and has been in a sales leadership role for the past eleven years.
Heather (Bennett) Pleskach was promoted to Associate Director of Marketing. Heather has eight years of experience in the marketing department at Otis where she has held increasingly progressive roles. She welcomes a new team, all hired in 2016: Hannah Roukous, Digital Marketing Coordinator; Emily McDonald, Marketing Associate; and Ricky Lehnhardt, Graphic Designer.
“I couldn’t be more proud of the sales, marketing and customer service teams. We’ve set our team up for success and I look forward to seeing them excel and elevate the Otis brand,” remarks Leonard Puzzuoli, CEO for Otis Technology.
Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most advanced gun cleaning systems and accessories available. The superior Breech-to-Muzzle® design combined with unmatched quality has positioned Otis as the gun care system of choice with the US Military. Otis Technology is SMART GUN CARE.
OTIS SPONSORS 2nd ANNUAL BABES WITH BULLETS 3-GUN CHALLENGE
Lyons Falls, NY: Otis Technology is pleased to announce its continued participation as presenting sponsor of the 2nd Annual Babes with Bullets 3-Gun Challenge. The match takes place May 20th and 21st at the Miculek’s Shootout Range near Shreveport, LA.
In this unique match, there will be an equal number of male and female participants, for a total of 200 competitors. The first place in men’s division will be a $2,000 check as will the first place in the ladies division; an “equal pay” philosophy that shooting sports rarely sees. The prize tables, valued at over $50,000, will also be divided equally between men and women’s divisions. Each division will also have a junior and senior category.
“Last year’s inaugural match was a well-organized event that welcomed shooters from all experience levels. We couldn’t be more proud to continue our participation for 2017 and look forward to another successful event and the opportunity to move shooting sports and firearms safety forward for women, men and juniors,” states Heather Pleskach, marketing manager for Otis Technology.
In addition, Otis Technology will partner up with Thompson Center/Smith & Wesson for an exciting side match at the event. Shooters can participate in this fun, optional stage for a chance to win a fantastic prize. Tracy & Lanny Barnes, former Olympic Biathletes, will be competing in the match on behalf of Otis. The Barnes are also Babes with Bullets instructors.
About Babes with Bullets: Since 2004, Babes with Bullets have been training novice women about firearms and firearms safety. Co-founders Deb Ferns, camp director, and Kay Miculek, head instructor, have led these camps for almost thirteen years. In 2010 multigun training was added to the camp’s extensive handgun training schedule and allowed for Babes alum to bring their husband, boyfriend, son, to join them at the range for top-notch 3-gun training. The 2017 camp schedule is now available at www.BabeswithBullets.com.
About Otis Technology: Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most advanced gun cleaning systems and accessories available. The superior Breech-to-Muzzle® design combined with unmatched quality has positioned Otis as the gun care system of choice with the US Military. Otis Technology is SMART GUN CARE.
OTIS LAUNCHES SPECIAL EDITION THIN BLUE LINE CLEANING KITS
in support of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
Lyons Falls, NY: Otis Technology is proud to announce the launch of three special edition Thin Blue Line Ripcord® Cleaning Kits. A portion of proceeds from the kits will support the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF). They will be available starting May 14, 2017, the start of National Police Week.
Each kit features two exclusive blue and gray Ripcords®, two caliber specific brushes, two slotted tips and 2” and 3” patches in a convenient carry case. Featuring a special edition Otis logo and incorporating a thin blue line, they are available in the following calibers: 5.56mm/9mm, 5.56mm/.40 cal and 5.56mm/.45 cal.
NLEOMF is dedicated to telling the story of American Law Enforcement and making it safer for those who serve. The organization also built and maintains the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial which is the nation’s monument to law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. Additionally, NLEOMF is a principal organizer of National Police Week. Five percent of sales on the special edition Thin Blue Line Ripcord® Cleaning Kits will be donated to the memorial fund. “We salute the brave members of our law enforcement community. As a small token of our appreciation, we developed these special edition cleaning kits and what better time to kick it off than during National Police Week – a special time devoted to recognizing those in blue who have lost their lives to protect ours,” states Greg Essenlohr, Military/LE Sales Manager for Otis Technology.
The cleaning kits will retail for $24.99 and are available at www.otistec.com and www.webyshops.com.
Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most advanced gun cleaning systems and accessories available. The superior Breech-to-Muzzle® design combined with unmatched quality has positioned Otis as the gun care system of choice with the US Military. Otis Technology is SMART GUN CARE.