Virginia Manufacturers Association Visits STIHL during Manufacturing Appreciation Week

We are proud to be a big part of the manufacturing base here in Virginia.  On October 20, 2011, as part of Virginia’s Manufacturing Appreciation Week, we welcomed the Virginia Manufacturers Association (VMA) and several state and local officials to our plant here in Virginia Beach. The visit included a tour of the plant and facility, led by Simon Nance, training manager

Manufacturing represents $34 billion of Virginia’s gross state product and employs six percent of the state’s private workers. At STIHL we employ more than 2,000 people and are one of the largest employers in our region.

Brett Vassey, VMA president and CEO joined us and had some nice things to say.  "STIHL represents the 'platinum standard' in world class manufacturing. Showcasing this company's facilities, employees, achievements and leadership was the highlight of Virginia Manufacturing Appreciation Week."  

Among the distinguished guests were elected officials Senator Harry Blevins, Senator Jeff McWaters and Delegate Bob Purkey.

Scott Tilley, our legal counsel and a VMA board member, led the folks around.  We were please to learn recently that Scott was recently appointed to the Virginia's Manufacturing Development Commission by Governor Bob McDonnell

Recognized by Governor Bob McDonnell, Manufacturing Appreciation Week in the Commonwealth of Virginia took place October 17 thru October 21.

STIHL Tour des Trees Raises Nearly Half a Million for Tree Research!

This year Sixty-five people from various backgrounds, careers, and interests, came together in October for the STIHL Tour des Trees, an annual cycling event that fundraises for the Tree Research and Education Endowment (TREE) Fund.



Photo Credit: David Hucker

By week’s end, the group had cycled more than 500 miles from Virginia Beach to Washington, D.C., taught elementary school children along the way about the value of trees, and raised more than $460,000 for tree research – a record-breaking amount for the TREE Fund!

Since the Tour began in 1992, more than 970 riders have helped generate more than $5 million for tree research and education programs which have helped fund a host of different projects that have addressed disease and pest management, urban planting challenges, tree biomechanics and workforce safety.

Each year, the STIHL Tour des Trees travels a different route through the country, and this year’s Tour featured tree plantings in Colonial Williamsburg, Monticello and the state Capitol grounds in Richmond and 65 miles of spectacular cycling along the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Photo Credit: Helen Steussy

The Tour also stopped at Columbia Elementary School in Palmyra, where the entire school turned out to help plant a new tree and learn about how trees grow from the Tour’s youth education specialist, “Professor Elwood Pricklethorn” (aka Warren Hoselton, veteran Tour rider and arborist from Toronto, Canada.)

Next year, the STIHL Tour des Trees takes on Oregon and will trek through high desert of Central Oregon to the craggy, foggy coast. Douglas firs, Mt. Hood and the spectacular Columbia Gorge.


To join or donate (donations can still be made to the TREE Fund!) visit the STIHL Tour des Trees website.

Photo Credit: Helen Steussy

As a leader in the outdoor power equipment industry we believe that it is our duty  to set the example in sustainability and continue to invest in innovative technologies, programs and partnerships as part of our ongoing commitment to socially responsible environmental stewardship.  The STIHL Tour des Trees is one such partnership and we are proud to be the title sponsor.

Why buy a STIHL chain saw?

10 Reasons to Choose a STIHL Chain Saw

We believe that our chain saws are legendary because of the quality and performance they provide to their owners year after year. And while many other manufacturers may choose to rest on the reputation of their past success, we continue to push forward, always improving our chain saws and continually challenging ourselves to meet the needs of tomorrow.  Because becoming a legend is one thing, but remaining one is something else entirely. Here are 10 reasons why we think you should choose a STIHL:

1) The #1 selling brand of chain saws worldwide – From leading professionals to demanding homeowners, STIHL chain saws are known for their quality, dependability and durability. But don’t take our word for it – hear it from real STIHL owners.

2) More features than those “bargain big box” chain saws – STIHL chain saws are engineered and built with the end-user in mind. Even our occasional-use chain saws are packed full of features that deliver optimal performance and increased comfort.

3) Manufactured to exacting standards – There’s a good chance your STIHL chainsaw was built right here in America, at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Virginia Beach, VA. Every saw must meet rigorous standards, and each and every saw is started and tested before it leaves the factory.

4) A warranty worthy of the STIHL name – Our dependable saws are also backed by a dependable warranty, giving you peace of mind with your purchase. Plus, you may be eligible to double your warranty on your next chain saw purchase!

5) A saw for nearly every job – Whether you need to cut firewood or do precision pruning, there is a STIHL chain saw for you. And you can easily compare STIHL chain saw models to ensure you’ll get just what you need. Not sure where to start in choosing the right one for you? Try our chain saw selector.

6) Sold by knowledgeable Dealers – With over 8000 Dealers from coast to coast, your local STIHL dealer is just around the corner, ready to provide sound advice on product selection, proper equipment use and recommended protective apparel. Remember, you won’t find STIHL at mass merchants like Lowe’s® and Home Depot® – Learn why STIHL is only sold at independent servicing retailers.

7) Service after the sale – With in-store parts and service by certified technicians, your STIHL Dealer can help you keep your equipment running strong.

8) Online tools available 24/7 – From product manuals to tips and how-to information, STIHL provides a vast array of online resources for STIHL owners. Plus, our video library delivers detailed visual instruction on features, operation, maintenance, and protective apparel.

9) The choice of professional arborists and forestry workers – From world-renowned tree-care experts and loggers across the globe to worldwide competitors in the STIHL® TIMBERSPORTS® Series, the STIHL name is synonymous with professional power.

10) A commitment to the environment and those working to sustain it – We are dedicated to developing products that are environmentally responsible and are proud to feature some of the cleanest running handheld outdoor power equipment available today. Combined with our continued partnerships, we look to lead the industry in ensuring a cleaner environment in the future.

For a STIHL dealer near you use the dealer locator at http://www.stihlusa.com/