Stone Acquires Patents And Marketing Rights To Buddy Mixers Words: David HalstedStone Construction Equipment, Inc. has acquired the patents and the exclusive marketing rights to Buddy Extreme-Duty Mixers from Buddy Equipment Company. Stone, which has been manufacturing the line under contract with Buddy Equipment for the past two years, recently acquired the current and pending patents, along with the four models of mortar mixers in the line. The full line will be marketed under the name “Buddy by Stone.” Lynne Woodworth, Stone President and CEO, said upon signing the agreement, that “this acquisition cements Stone’s standing as the leader in portable mixers. With the Buddy acquisition Stones line up of mixers will fit any and all mixing needs or application, from small homeowner, do-it-yourself mixers, to the large high production Silo Mixers; and stiff, dense materials that require very heavy-duty applications.” The Buddy Mixers include three models of belt-driven, tow-behind mortar mixers at 8, 11, and 13 cu. ft. capacities along with a fully-enclosed gearcase 13 cu. ft. model. Patents previously held by Buddy Equipment include the paddle configuration that delivers “dynamic mixing” and the drum configuration, which eliminates the dead zone in a mixer for more thorough blending. Also included in the agreement is the pending patent design for a cowl which allows the engine to be started and operated without ever opening the cowl.