We have seen the future, and the future is here.
For nearly a decade, outdoor power equipment manufacturers have been off to the races to see who could make the most efficient and economical mid-size mower for the professional lawn and landscape contractor market — all the while keeping their sights on new product innovations for the profitable golf market.
But as manufacturers seek to expand their product and service offerings, heads quickly turned to the fastest growing segment of the dynamic horticultural industry — professional landscaping.
Development and output of commercially viable mowers has been fast and furious. Walking the floor of the OPEI show in 1996, it was clear that mowers developed for the professional lawn and landscape contractor reached an all-time high. Nearly 40 manufacturers of midsize mowers were displaying product at the show.
Yet production of mowers continues to grow.
The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute predicted that shipments of commercial riding rotary turf mowers will increase 4.9 percent for 1997 to 50,981 units, following an 8.5 percent increase in 1996. More growth is forecast for commercial riders as well in 1998, reaching 54,193 units, an increase of 6.3 percent.
Commercial intermediate-size walk-behind rotary turf mowers are expected to increase as well, although not as substantially. The activity will make your head spin. But, as has been predicted, a shakeout period is upon us. Take note:
- Jacobsen bought Bunton giving the manufacturer its first true presence in the landscape market.
- Toro bought Exmark in a move that surprised industry experts and observers adding a new dimension to its already expanding internal product line.
- Yazoo, under new ownership itself, bought F.D. Kees.
- Last year, Dane Scag introduced the Surfer for the contractor.
- John Deere acquired Homelite in recent years and is now poised to introduce a brand new product line next month.
Keep your eyes open…there’s more changes to come.
Both John Deere and The Toro Co. have made it known that they intend to capture the lion’s share of the landscape contractor market by offering a full line of products to meet contractors’ needs. Both companies have the name recognition and capital to make it happen.With nearly 50 million acres of turf in the United States, installation and maintenance needs are aplenty.
This is a prime opportunity for contractors to get involved. Let manufacturers know what you need out of mowers and other products. Help them understand the ins and outs of your business. No one knows your needs as intimately as you. Remember, this is just the beginning. The best products and growth opportunities are yet to come.