About Me
Hi, I’m Richard Harper, and I’ve been a heavy plant operator for over 30 years. During my time operating heavy machinery, I noticed a common problem that many of my colleagues and I faced: the lack of practical storage solutions inside machine cabs. Whether it was a place to securely hold a phone, a cup, or even a hard hat, the cab often felt disorganized and inefficient. This frustration sparked an idea, and that’s how CabBuddy was born.
CabBuddy: Practical Solutions for Heavy Plant Operators
CabBuddy is a range of products designed specifically for heavy plant operators. My goal was to create practical, durable, and easy-to-install storage solutions that make life in the cab more comfortable and organized. From phone holders and cup holders to pen and pencil organizers, and even a dedicated hard hat hook, CabBuddy products are built to meet the needs of operators like me. Every product is designed with functionality and durability in mind, ensuring they can withstand the tough conditions of a worksite.
ReptiHaven: Enriching the Lives of Reptiles
Outside of my work as a heavy plant operator, I’ve had a lifelong passion for reptiles. For as long as I can remember, I’ve kept and cared for these fascinating creatures. Over the years, I noticed a gap in the market for high-quality, customizable reptile enclosures that prioritize both the animal’s well-being and the owner’s convenience. This led me to create ReptiHaven, a product range designed to enrich the lives of reptiles.
ReptiHaven offers climbing branches, basking ledges, and feeding platforms that can be easily rearranged thanks to my unique wall plate system (which I call “bases”). This innovative design allows reptile owners to swap and move components around effortlessly, creating a dynamic and engaging environment for their pets. Whether you’re caring for a gecko, bearded dragon, or snake, ReptiHaven products are designed to meet their needs while making maintenance easier for you.
A Commitment to the Environment
The environment is incredibly important to me, and I strive to make my businesses as sustainable as possible. That’s why I’ve chosen to use 3D printing for manufacturing my products. By producing items locally, I reduce the need for overseas manufacturing and shipping, which significantly cuts down on carbon emissions.
I also prioritize the use of PLA (polylactic acid), a biodegradable and renewable material made from plant-based resources, to avoid relying on traditional oil-based plastics. Additionally, my 3D printers are powered by solar panels whenever possible, further reducing my carbon footprint.
Looking Ahead
With over three decades of experience as a heavy plant operator and a lifelong passion for reptiles, I’ve been able to channel my expertise and creativity into two unique product ranges: CabBuddy and ReptiHaven. Both lines are designed to solve real problems, whether it’s improving the functionality of a machine cab or enhancing the quality of life for reptiles.
I’m proud to say that my products are not only practical and innovative but also environmentally conscious. As I continue to grow my businesses, I remain committed to sustainability, quality, and meeting the needs of my customers.
Thank you for taking the time to learn a little more about me and my journey. If you have any questions about CabBuddy, ReptiHaven, or my work, feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear from you!
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