Predicting Industry Possibilities for 2003

Turfgrass sod producers may have some water struggles ahead, according to Stan Gardner, president of Turfgrass Producers International. As forecast in the TPI’s annual state of the industry report, the coming year could be one of water shortages and storm water runoff woes.

Gardner expects such water issues will become increasing factors influencing the economic health and sales of turfgrass, especially for rapidly growing western regions of the country. Reduced water supplies may also influence new home lot sizes and therefore overall landscaping and maintenance opportunities.

Based on the continuing instability of the worldwide economy and the uncertainty over conditions in Iraq, Gardner suspects 2003 will look similar to this year. “All signs point to another roller coaster year from a financial perspective, preventing customers from resuming their normal buying habits,” he estimated.

But because of the complex nature of the economy, Gardner foretells some areas will grow stronger and expand, while others will droop.

In preparation for next year, Gardner recommended turf producers and others in the green industry develop business plans to prep for potential problems. Gardner’s personal contingency plans involve: a) maintaining profit margins with a status quo situation, b) adapting to a weaker economy and c) taking advantage of an improving economy.

Gardner also discussed the changing role consumers will play in next year, stating: “Consumers have more knowledge about turfgrass specifically and landscaping generally based on increased information that is easily accessible in multiple formats.” Gardner warned that consumers still might be influenced by erroneous information from tainted sources found online or elsewhere.

“Today’s consumer is more demanding than ever and has high expectations for the products he or she buys,” Gardner explained. In response, he urged turfgrass producers to focus on providing high-quality products, timely deliveries and responsive customer service.

The author is Assistant Editor - Internet for Lawn & Landscape magazine and can be reached at aanderson@lawnandlandscape.com.