Summer is finally here. Backyard barbecues, cold beer and with any luck, a well-deserved vacation and a break from your daily routine.

With business conditions the way they are, that well-deserved vacation may be but a distant speck on the horizon.

If indeed it is, you’re not alone. Instead of tossing a line in the water, the only line many will see this summer is to the left of their rig as they roll down the 401.

It’s a sign of the times. Everyone’s margins are being squeezed, not just yours. It seems the only way to increase the bottom line these days is to reduce expenses.

Thankfully, technology is advancing at a pace that allows us to do just that. Saving that one-quarter or one-half per cent on operating expenses annually can add up to some big bucks.

That being said, in order to invest in that cool new technology you need to have something called cash (what colour is it these days, anyway)?

Calculating the payback time on any investment is key, so before you jump in, please do your homework.

Sooner or later, the economy will get better. Rates will increase and we will see better times. I’ve said it before: If you feel that you’re not maximizing your bottom line, find yourself a good business consultant that specializes in trucking.

Talk to other truckers and keep an open mind. Just because you are a great driver doesn’t mean you’ll be a successful owner/operator.

Now, saying all that, let’s get back to that vacation. If you can’t get a full week, squeeze in a few long weekends.

That extra day can make a huge difference. Plan on taking in the Fergus Truck Show. If you haven’t been before, it’s the largest owner/operator show in the country. Being held July 24-27 in Fergus (go figure) it’s a great time and there is something for the entire family.

Don’t leave without trying a back bacon on a bun. There are several vendors who offer this delicacy. Every year, my cholesterol takes a beating during this weekend, and I love it!

Friday night at 8 p. m., please drop by the main stage. Just before April Wine cranks it up, we’ll be presenting the 2008 Owner/Operator of the Year award on behalf of our sponsors, Freightliner, Goodyear and Markel Insurance. See you at the show!

– Rob Wilkins is the publisher of Truck News and he can be reached at 416-510-5123.