The trend away from getting the
lowest price for equipment will continue, as operators look for longevity, comfort and multi-use productivity for better return on investment and healthier bottom lines. Sustainable lawn care practices will also
continue to trend for the remainder of the year and in years to come. Reducing fuel consumption to control costs and limit impact on the environment from emissions are of primary concern. — Stan Guyer, president, The Grasshopper
Company • More LSC are purchasing larger-deck
zero-turns. • Increased interest in larger engine
sizes. • Sales: Early demand and also a late- spring surge.
• Consolidating vendors and machines to one source. — Bill Engler, director sales LSC and industrial, Ariens Company (Gravely)
Overall, professional users are placing
more and more value on comfort and durability in the products that they use. — Jeff Dewosky, vice president of dealer sales for Husqvarna
Today's turf and landscape professionals
value options and are looking for equipment that will not only meet their specific needs on the job, but also provide a financial solution — either cost savings through fuel consumption or through purchasing incentives. — Christine Chapman, assistant product
manager, Kubota Lawn care professionals continue to
want high-quality products and prefer to purchase from independent local dealers who provide exceptional service after the sale. We see a trend of lawn care professionals wanting to do more with what they already have. — Darren Stoltenberg, field sales manager, PK Products
I see manufacturing companies
becoming more diverse and expanding into the landscape and agriculture industries. — Paul Hollis, executive vice president, Redexim North America
The key trends in terms of design and
manufacturing are in reduced emissions, vibration and noise and increased fuel efficiency, as well as improving overall ergonomics and power-to-weight ratios, particularly important for professional users using the equipment all day. Also of importance are features that make operation easier, more convenient and time efficient. — Marv Mathwig, product manager for
power tools, Stihl Inc.
Contractors are always looking for ways to cut expenses and increase profits. Today, a large expense is fuel, so contractors have to find ways to cut those costs or pass them along to their customers. Mowers that utilize electronic fuel injection (EFI) and
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