Tool time

04/12/2010 05:02:00 pm Abby BeMent - Construction News Ltd.

L-R: Jesus “Chuy” Rivas, Junior Govea and Royce Simpson

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HOUSTON – Owner Royce Simpson, North Main Tool Rental, has a mechanical background and has always worked with his hands.

“The idea of opening a tool rental store came to me in the ‘70s,” Simpson said. “There seemed to be a need for a tool rental business for contractors here in Houston.   Over the years, we have increased inventory and bought land around us for parking.”

Juan Rodriguez manages the shop and works at the counter. He is bi-lingual and Simpson says he is effective with communicating with customers.

Simpson’s wife Vicky manages the office and has worked at North Main Tool Rental since the very beginning. Their children used to work at the company when they were younger.

“Vicky and I have been married for 31 years,” Simpson said. “Before we were married, Vicky took business classes in college, made jewelry, worked as a secretary and also at a bank.   She is well qualified.

“We are currently doing some remodeling at our home. On the weekends, we are always spending time doing either tile or cabinetry work.”

In addition, Simpson is an avid hunter. He goes whitetail deer hunting in East Texas in the fall.

“In this business, I have noticed that I am not able to drive very far from the store,” he said. “I go hunting at places that are within reason. I have been hunting in Centerville, TX since the mid-‘60s.

“Deer hunting to me is really a family operation. For us it is all about campfires, the stars and the kids learning about respecting the land and people.”

Founded in 1976, North Main Tool Rental rents tools and equipment to the construction industry.     –ab