Parker Hannifin is dangling a carrot of incentives before service technicians and contractors who work in the supermarket sector. In turn, the company is hoping more of its products end up on the mechanical equipment of food stores.

The program, called FLO-CONtractor, encourages contractors to purchase $2,000 worth of specified Parker products through June 30, 2001, and submit an application form.

Once part of the program, contractors will receive one year of free valve training, a 3.5% rebate off wholesaler selling prices, and inclusion of their names in printed and online directories made available to decisionmakers in supermarket chains.

Truck decals and other types of industry recognition are included in the incentive program.

“By becoming an Authorized Parker FLO-CONtractor, the contractor becomes the industry’s preferred source for the service and repair of Parker’s refrigeration control valves,” said George Varzaly, Parker manager of Supermarket Business Development.

“Chains now have a formal network they can tap into to service their refrigeration systems.”

The products include pressure regulators, solenoid valves, in-line check valves, a tool kit, and related maintenance and service parts.

More information may be obtained by contacting Parker Aftermarket Customer Service, 2445 S. 25th Ave., Broadview, IL 60155-3858; 800-742-2681; 800-424-7109 (fax); cicaftermarket@parker.com(e-mail.)