LaVergne, TN, Oct. 29, 2024  – In a dynamic industry shaped by ever-evolving customer demands, JPW Industries—a leading player in woodworking and metalworking tools—found itself grappling with operational challenges in order servicing and customer support.

Handling thousands of orders monthly, often through email and fax, required significant manual effort and seasonal labor adjustments. To overcome these hurdles, the company partnered with RafterOne to implement Salesforce AI Solutions, including Einstein AI and Agentforce, revolutionizing their processes. 

We sat down with Terri Eshleman, Vice President of Customer Experience & Direct Sales at JPW Industries, to learn about their journey, the impact of adopting AI technology, and what the future holds for their business. Here’s what she had to say. 

WHY JPW INDUSTRIES EMBRACED SALESFORCE AI SOLUTIONS 

Q1: WHAT MOTIVATED JPW INDUSTRIES TO EXPLORE AI-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS? 

The journey began because we were looking for a way to automate our order process. We handle just shy of 3,000 orders a month, which are emailed or faxed to us. Processing them requires a lot of headcount and labor, which becomes a significant strain, especially during peak seasons. 

Salesforce has always been a strong partner for us. When I reached out to them about potential solutions, they introduced us to Einstein AI and Agentforce. Initially, we were only focused on order automation, but the project quickly grew into something much larger—one that’s poised to have a huge impact on all aspects of our business, including our call centers, technical support, and direct sales teams. 

Q2: WHY DID JPW CHOOSE RAFTERONE AS A PARTNER FOR THIS TRANSFORMATION? 

We chose RafterOne because of their outstanding reputation. They came highly recommended as an experienced, well-rounded AI partner and with a project of this scale, we couldn’t afford to take risks. We needed the best partner, and RafterOne was the clear choice.

Q3: HOW HAS THE IMPLEMENTATION JOURNEY BEEN FOR YOUR TEAM SO FAR? 

It’s been a lot of work, but enjoyable work. The process has forced us to take a step back and reevaluate how we store and use information, even down to how our agents complete fields in Salesforce. 

We discovered areas where we needed to reset and refine our approach to lay the foundation for Einstein AI to truly shine. The partnership with RafterOne has been exceptional—transparent conversations, well-managed timelines, and incredible project management. It’s been a genuinely pleasant experience, and we’re now just one week away from launching Einstein AI for service. 

Q4: WHAT SPECIFIC CHALLENGES DO YOU EXPECT EINSTEIN AI AND AGENTFORCE TO SOLVE? 

JPW is the result of six companies merging over time, which means we’ve accumulated decades of tribal knowledge stored in people’s minds rather than centralized systems. Our agents spend a lot of time digging through shared drives, catalogs, and manuals for answers, which prolongs training and case resolution times. 

Einstein AI and Agentforce will help us build a knowledge database and an intelligent copilot for our agents. This will significantly shorten the six months it currently takes to train new agents and improve the quality of technical support. For example, my team repairs high-value machines remotely—often based only on photos or emails. Now, with AI-powered live troubleshooting, we expect to see substantial returns in terms of efficiency and customer satisfaction. 

Another major benefit is 24/7 customer support. Today, we’re limited to business hours, but with Agentforce, we can serve our customers whenever they need us. 

Q5: WHY IS AGENTFORCE PARTICULARLY EXCITING FOR JPW INDUSTRIES? 

I like to think of Agentforce as an invisible army. It’s scalable, which means our business can grow without needing to add more staff. It frees up our team to focus on meaningful conversations with customers—building relationships instead of handling transactional tasks like sending invoices or booking appointments. 

Relationships are the backbone of long-term success, and Agentforce allows us to invest in those relationships by taking care of the repetitive tasks that often distract our agents from what truly matters. 

Q6: HOW HAS YOUR TEAM RESPONDED TO THE INTEGRATION OF THESE AI TOOLS? 

Initially, there were concerns—some employees worried that AI might replace their roles. But I explained that this isn’t about replacing people; it’s about enhancing what we can do together. Our customers value meaningful human interactions, and AI allows us to focus on those. 

This is a partnership between humans and technology. By automating repetitive tasks, AI empowers our team to provide better service and build stronger customer relationships. 

Q7: WHAT RESULTS DO YOU ANTICIPATE FROM THESE IMPLEMENTATIONS? 

We expect shorter call times because agents will have faster access to information, which builds trust with customers. Reducing case resolution times will also free-up agents to handle more calls and deepen customer relationships. 

Better service translates into a stronger reputation, which ultimately drives sales and growth. We’re a company poised for growth, and this project is setting us up to serve our customers better and achieve our business goals. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM JPW INDUSTRIES’ JOURNEY 

JPW Industries’ collaboration with RafterOne demonstrates how AI can transform business processes, streamline operations, and enhance customer relationships. By implementing Salesforce Einstein AI and Agentforce, the company is not only solving immediate challenges but also positioning itself for scalable growth and long-term success. 

READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS WITH AI? 

If you’re looking to transform your operations and maximize ROI like JPW Industries, consider starting with an AI Readiness Assessment. Discover how Salesforce AI solutions like Einstein AI and Agentforce can help your business scale and succeed. 

Groundbreaking coating built tough for smooth cuts, maintenance-free performance, and less rust

LaVergne, TN, October 29, 2024 – JET Tools, a JPW Industries company and provider of tools being used by manufacturing professionals in plants, machine shops and workshops across the United States, today announced the introduction of its new performance coating, JET BLACK.

JET BLACK can be used by those who work in professional wood shops, woodworking hobbyists and those in educational institutions. It reduces friction by up to 50%, which means reduced time and money spent on maintenance. It will also support the user in moving wood with ease. The performance coating offers professional performance at an affordable price and comes with a 5-year industry leading warranty.

JET BLACK offers users:

Low Friction:

• Take command of material with up to 50% less friction

Rust Resistant

• Coating is built to last and stand up to rust

Maintenance Free

• Spend your time working. No waxing or polishing needed

Enhanced Visibility

• Increased contrast so you can focus on the task at hand

5-Year Warranty

• Put to the test so you push it to the limit

JET BLACK is now available through authorized dealers. For more information, please visit: jettools.com/jetblack

About JET Tools:

JET Tools, owned by JPW Industries, is committed to being the supplier you can depend on for the epitome of quality, innovation and service. JET Tools has worked hard to make this a reality that has been ongoing since we introduced our products more than 65 years ago. With JET Tools being used by manufacturing professionals in plants, machine shops and workshops across the United States, we knew we could bring the same quality and reliability to another very important customer – You.

For more information: 

Joanne Hogue

Smart Connections PR

+1 (410) 658-8246

joanne@smartconnectionspr.com

The SkyHyker jobsite lift provides unparalleled efficiency, mobility, and safety ensuring smooth operation and superior reliability

LaVergne, TN, July 23, 2024 – JET Tools, a JPW Industries company and provider of tools being used by manufacturing professionals in plants, machine shops and workshops across the United States, today announced the introduction of SkyHyker™ an industrial material lift engineered for unparalleled efficiency, mobility, and safety.

The market introduction of SkyHyker material lift marks a new standard, providing lifting capacity of 2000 lbs., 33% more than comparable lifts, and a telescoping load capability of 1000 lbs. SkyHyker redefines industry standards, while ensuring smooth operation and superior reliability.

SkyHyker is a one-time setup, ensuring no loss of parts during storage. SkyHyker is easy to maneuver into any space quickly and reduces the risk of on-the-job injuries. Features include:

• Max Mobility – This patent-pending, foldable design pivots between work and travel modes without having to disassemble the lift. SkyHyker also fits through a standard doorway.
• Extreme Capacity – Effortlessly handle lifting needs with an impressive capacity of up to 2,000 lbs., while also offering a telescoping capability of up to 1,000 lbs., doubling that of the competition.
• Smooth Operation – This lift restricts operation to the safe lifting position, while also boasting improved ergonomics and conveniently located service points for easy access and maintenance.
• Superior Reliability – SkyHyker boasts a reinforced T-bar design, maximizing strength and stability, while its integrated no-freefall worm gear winch ensures unparalleled safety with every operation.

“With SkyHyker, JET Tools is raising the bar for material lifts in the industry,” said Nathan O’Sullivan, Product Manager at JET Tools. “SkyHyker is “raising the bar, and anything else you need” – designed with the user in mind, incorporating features that directly address the challenges faced in industrial settings. From enhanced safety mechanisms to increased load capacities and user-friendly controls, every aspect of SkyHyker has been meticulously engineered to make work easier, more efficiently, and safer. At JET Tools we are committed to delivering products that not only meet but exceed industry standards, ensuring our customers can rely on us for the highest quality and performance in their material lifting needs.”

SkyHyker is now available through authorized dealers. For more information, please visit: jettools.com/skyhyker

About JET Tools:

JET Tools, owned by JPW Industries, is committed to being the supplier you can depend on for the epitome of quality, innovation and service. JET Tools has worked hard to make this a reality that has been ongoing since we introduced our products more than 65 years ago. With JET Tools being used by manufacturing professionals in plants, machine shops and workshops across the United States, we knew we could bring the same quality and reliability to another very important customer – You.

For more information: 

Joanne Hogue

Smart Connections PR

+1 (410) 658-8246

joanne@smartconnectionspr.com

ArmorGlide is a durable coating that enhances visibility and makes worksurfaces low friction, rust-resistant, and maintenance-free.

LaVergne, TN – Powermatic, a JPW Industries company and provider of superior woodworking tools, industry leading knowledge, and consultative expertise, today announced the introduction of ArmorGlide, an industrial-grade, low-friction, protective coating on a new line of bandsaws, table saws, and jointers.

The ArmorGlide line of products gives Woodworkers maintenance-free work tables and enhanced control, bringing a new level of convenience and performance. The ArmorGlide coating eliminates the need for preventative measures Woodworkers have traditionally used to combat rust on their machine tables. The low-friction coating enhances a Woodworker’s ability to move, slide, and control the workpiece instilling confidence and providing improved results. The ArmorGlide coating also provides protection against humidity and sweat and increases the lifespan of these woodworking tools.

“Powermatic is excited to bring a new level of machine table to Woodworkers.  This will revolutionize the way our Users can create,” said Jimmy Uttley, Director of Product Management at Powermatic. “Our ArmorGlide-coated products represent a significant advancement in woodworking technology, and we know they will make the experience and finished product of woodworkers at all levels even better.”

The launch of ArmorGlide coated equipment comes after extensive research and development by Powermatic. Tested for over 250,000 cycles, ArmorGlide will not peel or tear, reduces friction by 50%, prevents rust by 99%, and enhances the maneuverability and control that Woodworkers require.

The new ArmorGlide coated tops are covered under Powermatic’s individual machine warranties. The new lineup of products will be available at authorized dealers starting in September. For more information, please visit: Wood.Powermatic.com/ArmorGlide.

About Powermatic:

From a family operated corn milling operation in McMinnville, TN to today’s 400,000 square foot facility in LaVergne, TN, the evolution of Powermatic has echoed the success of American business ingenuity throughout the 20th Century and into the new millennium. Powermatic is the Gold Standard of woodworking equipment, known for its quality, reliability, and precision. With over a century of experience, Powermatic has been inspiring creativity in personal, educational, and industrial woodworking shops since 1921.

For more information: 

Joanne Hogue

Smart Connections PR

+1 (410) 658-8246

joanne@smartconnectionspr.com

JPW Industries and Wilton Tools are proud to announce Wilton has been honored by Successful Farming magazine as a recipient of the Editor’s Choice Tools of the Year in the Shop Essentials category. The award names Wilton’s Multi-Purpose Bench Vise the Gold Standard in Vises. Successful Farming’s annual award to highlights “innovations and must-have tools and shop supplies” for their audience.

Wilton’s Multi-Purpose Bench Vises are the choice for a wide range of workholding needs including light tradesman, utility, MRO, and general-purpose applications. Its 360-rotating head and movable body provide maximum versatility, while its cast iron and ductile iron build ensure durability across any use. The Multi-Purpose Bench Vise is available in 4-1/2, 5-1/2, and 6-1/2-inch jaw widths.

For more information or to purchase your Wilton Multi-Purpose Bench Vise today, visit wiltontools.com.

JPW Industries Acquires Axiom Tool Group

Expands Deeper into CNC Market

LA VERGNE, TN — [October 4, 2021] – JPW Industries, Inc. (“JPW”), a leading global designer, manufacturer and distributor of branded metalworking and woodworking equipment and specialty shop tools sold under the JET^®, Powermatic^®, Wilton^®, Edwards^®, Promac^® and Baileigh^® brand names, today announced it has acquired Axiom Tool Group^® (“Axiom”). JPW is a Gamut Capital Management (“Gamut”) portfolio company. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Founded in 2014, Axiom is a leading marketer, designer and distributor in the U.S. of computer numerical control (CNC) machines and accessories sold under the Axiom brand. Axiom’s operations in Westerville, Ohio, including warehousing, customer service and technical service will remain in their current locations.

Scott Leichtling, CEO of JPW, stated, “Axiom is a natural fit into the JPW family of brands, and we look forward to providing our customers with even greater access to the depth and breadth of high-quality CNC equipment. Axiom’s leading position in the growing CNC market perfectly complements JPW’s platform capabilities. We are eager to welcome the team, support the growth of the Axiom brand and to leverage JPW’s supply chain and customer service capabilities to improve the overall value proposition to our collective customer base. At the core of this collaboration is JPW’s desire to address a growing need among young, talented makers, for machinery which leverages technology to improve accuracy, efficiency, and safety.”

Todd Damon, Axiom’s Founder, will join JPW to support the growth and expansion of the Axiom brand and the CNC category at JPW more broadly. “I am exceptionally proud of the loyal and entrepreneurial team responsible for our growth to date and feel confident that together with JPW’s platform and experience, we are well-positioned to continue to deliver exceptional products for our dedicated customers,” said Damon. “Joining the JPW platform will help us beginning on day one as we enhance our product offerings and attract new consumers while propelling our growth within the CNC market,” Damon continued.

About JPW Industries, Inc.

JPW, based outside Nashville, TN and founded in 1958, is a leading designer, manufacturer and value-added distributor of market-leading, branded machinery, specialty shop tools and equipment for rugged applications across multiple end markets. The Company is highly diversified across customers, selling to the industrial, consumer and construction end markets. JPW owns six brands, including JET, Baileigh, Wilton, Powermatic, Promac and Edwards. JPW’s brands have over 400 years of collective heritage, building brand equity with customers and end users through superior product performance. Visit JPW Industries at www.jpwindustries.com, JET Tools at www.jettools.com, Baileigh at www.baileigh.com, Powermatic at www.powermatic.com, Wilton at www.wiltontools.com, Edwards at www.edwardsironworkers.com and Promac at www.promac.ch.

About Axiom Tool Group

Axiom Tool Group, Inc. is a manufacturer and world-wide distributor of small-format CNC routers. Since 2014, the Axiom Tool Group has been building truly unique CNC routers which are marketed under the ‘Axiom Precision’ brand. These innovative machines integrate technology and components from the industrial market into machines which fit the budget and size constraints of the small shop.

Axiom offers CNC solutions in a wide range of sizes for both hobbyist and industrial

applications, and is an industry leader in machine innovation, product quality and customer service. The Axiom Tool Group is headquartered in Westerville, Ohio. To learn more, visit www.axiomprecision.com.

Media Contacts

For JPW:
Prosek Partners (973) 908–4463
Pro-gamut@prosek.com

La Vergne, TN – Wilton^® has joined with NAPA^® Auto Parts in a national, in-store promotion of Wilton’s Limited Edition 6” WS6 Shop Vise (63302IFH) in support of the nation’s Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund (IFHF). For each Limited Edition vise sold during the July through September event, $5.00 will be donated to the care of military service members who suffer from the effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress (PTS). The total amount donated through the promotion is set at $25,000.

Wilton is glad to join NAPA in backing IFHF, which has provided more than $200 million in aid since 2000 to severely wounded, military members and their families. Currently, IFHF is building a series of 10 treatment centers on military bases across the country to address the complex symptoms of TBI and PTS. The facilities, called Intrepid Spirit Centers, provide the most advanced and effective care available, enabling more than 90 percent of patients to continue on active duty and enjoy an active, productive life.

IFHF badges are displayed on both sides of the Wilton Limited Edition 6” WS6 Shop Vise, which is a great choice for automotive, as well as general duty applications. The rugged vise features a heavy-duty 30,000 psi gray cast iron body and a machined slide bar which eliminates side-to-side movement in the front jaw. Its 360° swivel base has double lockdowns for quick and easy positioning.

The Wilton Limited Edition 6” WS6 Shop Vise (63302IFH) is available at participating NAPA dealers.

About JPW Industries, Inc.

Headquartered in La Vergne, Tennessee, JPW Industries, Inc.^® manufactures and markets a wide range of machinery and equipment under the JET, Powermatic and Wilton brands. In addition to its La Vergne headquarters, the company has operations in Russia, Taiwan, and China. It sells through a vast network of distributor partners worldwide. Visit JET Tools at www.jettools.com, Powermatic at www.powermatic.com or Wilton at www.wiltontools.com.

For additional information contact:

Mike Mangan, MKM Comm. Adam Brown, Wilton

847-255-1903 615-793-1367

mkmcomm@gmail.com abrown@jpwindustries.com

We are excited to announce that JPW Industries has received the 2020 Sphere 1 Sapphire Supplier of the Year award!

Sphere 1 is a cooperative of tool, fastener, and concrete accessory distributors, working together to achieve competitive and sustainable advantages in the marketplace. By partnering with preferred suppliers, like JPW Industries, Sphere 1 provides members enhanced vendor programs, education, and innovative practices.

Sphere 1 annually recognizes distributors and suppliers across the U.S. that demonstrate excellence, collaboration, and partnership. Its most prestigious awards go to the Members and Suppliers of the Year.

The 2020 Supplier of the Year award recognizes JPW based on successfully meeting six criteria that make up the overall score from the Sphere 1 annual support card:

• Member sales volume with JPW
• Sales growth
• Participation in the Gateway for Growth planning platform
• A high level of engagement with Sphere 1 University
• Member vote

This is the second time JPW has been recognized as a Supplier of the Year, with its first honor coming in 2017. We are so proud of this accomplishment!

The JPW Industries team is proud to announce that we have received the 2020 IBC Supplier of the Year and IBC Sales Excellence Award.

The Supplier of the Year award is based on the following criteria:

• Full involvement in all marketing efforts
• Participates in IBC Connects and other strategic IBC activities
• Grew overall business
• AP/AR team works flawless with their finance team

The IBC – Sales Excellence Award is given to the top Supply with greatest growth by dollar volume, year over year 2018/2019

IBC is an industrial buying group for independent distributors to hold a competitive advantage over big box and national distributors in the areas of personal service and relationship management and provider of MROP supply chain solutions. As a group, their members conduct business with a myriad of end-user accounts in to round out their portfolio of name brand products for the metalworking MROP, material handling, safety, janitorial and sanitation end users served by their distributor members.

The JPW Industries team is proud to announce they have received the 2020 NetPlus Growth Plus Supplier Excellence Award. NetPlus Members work with preferred suppliers to develop a strategy to improve their product mix or focus on new markets. Growth Plus is a joint sales planning program designed to enhance partnerships between NetPlus distributors and suppliers. Target the channel partners that you want to grow with and then collaborate with them one-on-one to build a plan for growth.