Utility Keystone Trailer Sales in Celebration Mode
Inspiration often leads people to change directions. Stan Zeamer’s change of course stemmed from a longtime friendship with Nelson and Bob Behmer and a common fondness for the sport of wrestling. In 1978, Stan left his job as a professor and wrestling coach at a college university to open Utility Keystone Trailer Sales (UKTS) with Nelson and Bob.
Quickly growing out of the rented, one service bay location, Utility Keystone Trailer Sales opened a new 4 service bay facility on six acres of land in 1980. After Stan bought out the Behmer brothers in 1984, the Zeamer family began to get involved. Stan’s brother Cliff was hired to manage the Used Trailer Department in 1987. The next generation soon followed. Bill Zeamer, Stan’s oldest son joined the company in 1993 followed by younger son Bryan in 1996.
Dealership team members and representatives from Utility Trailer Manufacturing Co.
In 2000, Utility Keystone Trailer Sales moved to its current location on 42 acres west of Lancaster. This modern 16 service bay facility also houses 6,000 sq. ft. of parts in their showroom and warehouse space. Continued growth enabled UKTS to open a new rental and leasing division – PennStro Leasing in 2014. Today, plans are underway to expand down the road from their current location. Twelve acres are set aside for trailer wash bays, additional office space and inventory overflow. Construction is set to begin either in the summer or fall of 2018.
Today, UKTS employs 94 people and both Bill’s and Bryan’s kids are involved. It is no coincidence that 11 of the employees have wrestled in some capacity. “Dad understood the importance of performance and setting goals, and having fun. This culture hasn’t changed,” said Bryan Zeamer, President of UKTS. “ We know the hard work and discipline it takes to participate in the sport.
In talking about their keys to success, Mr. Zeamer added, “We are privileged and grateful to represent Utility for 40 years. The Bennett Family has demonstrated great commitment to the trailer industry, and our entire team models that as well. Our core values are Faith, Service, and Family. We practice these values in our daily lives. As a result, our business, families, and community are stronger. Our foundation is Faith, which stems from our Christian principles. We define Faith as doing the right thing in all we do. Our standard is Service. Customers receive uncommon service in every experience. This standard overflows into our community, making a positive impact. Our team is family, everyone matters here, and this company matters to us.”
You can find Utility Keystone Trailer Sales at 1976 Auction Road in Manheim, PA 17545, right off Highway 283. They can be reached at 717.400.7183, or online at: www.utilitykeystone.com