Hidden Gems: Meet Tj Hermesman of Ted’s Rental and Sales, Inc.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tj Hermesman.

Hi Tj, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Our Family business started in 1971, after my grandfather relocated to Durango while working for Montgomery Ward. After living here, he didn’t want to leave when they asked him to relocate again, so he started his own business and made a place for his family. He conducted a survey of the Durango area and saw a need for an equipment rental store, so Ted’s Rental Center was born. After a few years in business, he added more equipment and the ability to sell power equipment. With this, the name changed to what we still use today, Ted’s Rental and Sales, Inc. Today, we have continued on the business and the tradition of family ownership and operation. Ted’s is operating in its fourth and largest location under the leadership of the third generation of family ownership. We continue to serve the Four Corners community as the area’s longest-running equipment rental store.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like in any small business, starting is never a smooth road. We have continued to weather the storms of economic crises and local struggles. 2026 will mark the 55th year in operation for Ted’s Rental and Sales, so we have seen our fair share of struggles and hardship. No successful business goes without struggles, and being able to adapt, overcome, and change with the times and the economy is what makes us, as an organization, more resilient and better prepared for future struggles.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We are now a combat veteran-owned and operated business. But we are still the same family-owned business from our roots. Ted’s has been in the same family line since it opened its doors. All three generations still work in the company regularly. We treat our employees, customers, and the area we serve as a part of that same family. We are not just serving the community we are in; we are part of that community. We serve in the community as firefighters, religious leaders, teachers, and more. With that, we want to see those in our town thrive and prosper, and we treat our business practices in a manner that supports that each day.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
As an equipment rental store, we provide tools most people don’t need to keep on hand daily. With that in mind, we want to be a part of the success of whatever project our customers are working on. We fully believe we are a “partner in every project”. So the best thing we can do —and others can do for us —is let us help! There is a great chance we have the right tool to help make that next job easier and cheaper!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tedsrental.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tedstruevaluerental/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TedsRentalandSales