Landscape and Irrigation is read by decision makers throughout the landscape and irrigation markets — including contractors, landscape architects, professional grounds managers, and irrigation and water mgmt companies and reaches the entire spetrum.
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/144453
Special Feature Many of the newer mowers on the market are more fuel-efficient than older models; and, with fuel costs on the rise, landscape contractors are looking for ways to save at the pump. — Ryan Moorlag, associate marketing manager at Toro Customers need reliable machines that offer great serviceability. Fuel efficiency, minimal wear parts, and machine productivity are all vital factors impacting buying decisions. When the customer estimates the cost of operation, they should look beyond the purchase price and see the whole life cycle of the machine. — Andy Van Soelen, rental solutions specialist,Vermeer Corporation When I look at retail trends. excavator sales are on the upswing. I wouldn't call excavators new, but we're seeing more people using excavators instead of loader backhoes. For the installation of ponds and placement of large boulders, the truth of the matter is that the excavator is the more ideal piece of equipment for landscapes because it doesn't do a lot of damage, and you can get in and do those projects. People who are upgrading existing homes are driving that market.Two years ago I heard "I would like to buy excavators for hardscapes, but I don't have the budget." In 2012, people said they were going to buy excavators, and now, in 2013, we're seeing it.We're seeing a lot more fancy yards with water features and hardscapes. As that becomes the norm, it is driving equipment buying decisions. Now that landscapers are working on existing homes, we're seeing higher excavator sales, and lower skid-steer sales to this market. — Rob Gilles, marketing manager, Bobcat Value, fuel economy and durability of equipment have emerged as some of the top buying considerations for landscape managers and lawn care companies interested in making the most of their investment. — Alex Torre, lawn and garden marketing manager, Honda Power Equipment Owners and operators respond well to promotions. For example, we recently introduced a promotion wherein each P-ZT or PZ purchase comes with a free backpack blower, which resulted in increased sales. They're also looking for a product that's 22 Landscape and Irrigation July/August 2013 durable since issues with equipment impacts their bottom line.When a part is down, they want dealers with readily available parts that can be serviced quickly. — Jeff Dewosky, vice president of dealer sales for Husqvarna New emissions and EPA regulations provide an added component to decision making. Buyers must choose between new Tier 4 models vs. older technology Interim Tier 4 models for those models in the 75-hp. to 85-hp. category. Buyers should also have a very good idea what they will be doing — job applications — with these machines to ensure that they get the right machine for their jobs. Skid loaders come in a wide variety of sizes, capacities and power; a buyer needs to be aware of these features and specifications, as well as comfort and operating options, before purchasing. — Kelly Moore, product and training specialist for Mustang skid-steer loaders Driven by the late season and continued uncertainty with the direction of the economy, we see a large percentage of our products being purchased on a used basis. — Dennis Von Ruden, president of General Equipment Company Utilization.With two economic downturns within the last 12 years, customers appear to be more cost conscious than ever before.When coupled with lower equipment utilization, this cost-conscious trend is driving customers to rely more heavily on rental companies to fill their equipment needs. — Matt Collins, product manager, compact & HD equipment, Ditch Witch the most reliable, durable equipment for your money. But the service provided by the local servicing dealer really can impact the buying decision. Landscapers should take the time to cultivate relationships with their local dealers and then support them fully. There are several things to consider before purchasing equipment. It is important to factor in both the short- and the longterm effects of an equipment purchase. Whether landscapers are buying a fleet of new lawn care maintenance products or one product accessory, every purchase should be an investment to raise the bottom line.We recommend consulting with a local servicing dealer who can offer advice based on a customer's specific needs, rather than generalizations, to ensure that the right tools and accessories are selected. Potential questions to consider are: * Are you using the equipment all day, 40 hours or more a week? * Are you working in a noise-sensitive environment? * Are there client or community restrictions on exhaust emissions? That being said, customers should be concerned with getting the best value for their money, and the cheapest option is most likely not be the best long-term option. — Steve Meriam, director of sales, Stihl Inc. Customers are looking for additional benefits from manufacturers that go beyond equipment offerings.To answer this need, we've created the GreenFleet Loyalty Rewards program to provide exclusive equipment discounts, substantial parts savings, preferred financing opportunities, and other member-only benefits and promotions. Loyalty programs, such as this one, encourage customers to look at the total offering they can receive from a manufacturer. — Steve Wilhelmi, tactical marketing manager, John Deere Commercial Mowing The economy and reduced incomes, coupled with customers dealing with increased expenses from healthcare.This has heightened the competition for accounts and business, forcing contractors to be more efficient and tighter in their pricing models. — Pat Cappucci, president & COO of Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. I think that landscapers are looking to get the absolute most out of their machines. They need equipment that's versatile enough to accomplish the widest possible range of tasks.That's where it's important to have a machine that can be fitted with a broad range of attachments.The more use landscapers can get out of a machine, the greater the return on their investment. LI When you are earning a living with your outdoor power equipment, you want to get [Editor's note: Reponses were presented in the order in which they were received.] www.landscapeirrigation.com