"The green industry is in a powerful growth phase and we intend to be the leading source for all outdoor power equipment needs," noted Dave Zerfoss, Husqvarna president. "This acquisition creates a complete line of offerings, making Husqvarna a total source for all lawn and garden and commercial needs - everything from professional trimmers to commercial mowers."
The deal provides Husqvarna with its much sought-after presence in the commercial mowing industry via all Yazoo/Kees branded products, turf care dealers and distributors, and the company's Beatrice, Neb., manufacturing facility. Specifically, Husqvarna will now have its own line of commercial riding mowers, zero-turn mowers and intermediate walk-behind mowers.
Yazoo will continue to provide manufacturing, customer service and distribution services to Husqvarna for the next 12 months as the Yazoo/Kees operations are integrated into Husqvarna's operations. The Yazoo/Kees mowers will be marketed under the Yazoo/Kees name until June 30, 2000, at which time decisions about branding and distribution will be made by Husqvarna. Husqvarna-branded products will be sold through commercially qualified Husqvarna dealers.
Tom Lutes, chief executive officer for Yazoo, said Yazoo will continue to own and operate its non-turf care business that it has developed over the last few years and proceeds from this sale will be used by Yazoo to pay down debt and finance additional growth.