Green Inudstry Pros September/October 2020 by GreenIndustryPros.com

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TABLE OF CONTENTS THE MANAGEMENT RESOURCE FOR LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS AND EQUIPMENT DEALERS

Volume 32, No.6 | September/October 2020

COVER STORY

DEPARTMENTS

04 Through the Grapevine 30 New Products 64 The Dirt Green Industry News 64 Advertisers Index

GIE+EXPO Looks Ahead to 2021

FEATURES

06 Special Report How Landscaping Pros Can Use Technology to Improve Business Operations

Increasing sales and eliminating inefficiencies are some of the ways to make a difference in your landscaping company’s profit through the use of technology.

14 Equipment Focus Advancements in Battery Systems are Increasing

Continued developments in battery technology are bringing about higher power capabilities and additional use cases in the heavy equipment industry.

52 Lawn Care Fall Overseeding for a Thick, Vibrant Lawn Fall is the perfect time for landscapers to overseed

56 Business Management How to Use the Advanced Features of Google My Business

Google My Business is slowly becoming its own version of the Yellow Pages, the big difference is, you control what your clients see 24/7.

60 Dealer Success Guide Putting Down Roots

Valuing & Grooming Your Customers to Deepen Brand Loyalty

52 www.greenindustrypros.com

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THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE

STAY SAFE, See You Next Year

he landscape industry’s largest annual gathering or as organizers call it, a family reunion, GIE+EXPO 2020, is not happening. OPEI announced in July that the 2020 show would be canceled. (Read more about it on page 24). Planning is already underway for GIE+EXPO 2021, which is scheduled to take place Oct. 20-22 in Louisville. Registration is already open for that show with anticipation of a larger turnout.

Ryan Whisner (920) 542-1238 rwhisner@acbusinessmedia.com

I have no doubt that OPEI and NALP will once again provide a dynamic lineup of education and products at GIE+EXPO in 2021 to help you take your businesses’ to the next level. This year, NALP will be hosting LANDSCAPES 2020 The Virtual Experience. Lauded as the premier education and networking event for landscape industry leaders. For the event, NALP has organized 40 education sessions, which will be recorded and available for a full year after the event to attendees. Topics range from software and connectivity to drones, online reviews and opportunities for diversification. In addition some sessions also will address how to handle some of the COVID-19 challenges. Even more opportunities are expected when the tradeshow returns

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in 2021. Naturally, GIE+EXPO is so much more than just an opporutnity to learn. I think my favorite description of the show will always come from OPEI President Kris Kiser, when he calls it a “family reunion” for landscapers, hardscapers, equipment dealers, distributors, manufacturers and suppliers. We all are going to miss getting together and I think the 2021 show will be better for it. The Kentucky Exposition Center is spending about $8 million on outdoor improvements including paved pathways, irrigation and a new entryway. Some additional highlights that would have been featured in 2020 are expected to now be part of the 2021 show. These include: • Hands-on Drone Zone, a 4,000-sq-ft netted area on the show floor where attendees can fly drones with expert trainers • UTV Test Track • Expanded In-Tree Arborist Demos and Classroom Courses Obviously, you’ll need to evaluate whether the new features, new products and educational opportunities are right for your business but the important thing is they will be available. You can be sure a plethora of new products and more will be at GIE+EXPO in 2021. GIE+EXPO is an opportunity to stay abreast of the ongoing changes within the industry and network with the people responsible for them. For now, stay safe and we look forward to seeing you at next year’s show.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Published by AC Business Media 201 N. Main Street, 5th Floor Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 (800) 538-5544 Volume 32, Number 6

ADVERTISIN G

Publisher ................................................................................... Eric Servais eservais@acbusinessmedia.com Sales Representative ...................................................Megan Perleberg mperleberg@acbusinessmedia.com Sales Representative ..........................................................Sean Dunphy sdunphy@acbusinessmedia.com Sales Representative ..........................................................Nikki Lawson nlawson@acbusinessmedia.com Sales Representative ............................................................Kris Flitcroft kflitcroft@acbusinessmedia.com National Automotive Manager .......................................... Tom Lutzke tlutzke@acbusinessmedia.com

EDITORIAL

Editor ...................................................................................... Ryan Whisner rwhisner@acbusinessmedia.com

CIRCU LATION

Audience Development Manager .................................. Angela Franks

PRODU CTION

Senior Production Manager ................................................Cindy Rusch crusch@acbusinessmedia.com Art Director .................................................................................Willard Kill wkill@acbusinessmedia.com

AC Business Media Chief Executive Officer .................................................. Barry Lovette Chief Financial Officer ............................................... JoAnn Breuchel Chief Digital Officer ...................................................... Kris Heineman Vice President, Sale & Marketing .............................. Amy Schwandt Director of Digital Operations & IT ............................... Nick Raether Director of Digital Strategy............................................... Joel Franke Group Content Director.................................................... Jon Minnick Change of Address & Subscriptions — P.O. Box 3605 Northbrook, IL 60065-3605 • (877) 201-3915 Fax: (847) 291-4816 • circ.greenindustrypros@omeda.com List Rental — Jeff Moriarty, Senior Vice President of Business and Media Solutions • InfoGroup • (518) 339 4511 jeff.moriarty@infogroup.com Reprints & Licensing — Eric Servais eservais@acbusinessmedia.com Green Industry Pros [USPS 003-763 and ISSN 2168-121X (print), ISSN 2168-1228 (online)] is published seven times a year: January/ February, March, April, May/June, July/August, September/October and November/December by AC Business Media. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Green Industry Pros, P.O. Box 3605, Northbrook, IL 60065-3605. Subscriptions: Individual subscriptions are available without charge in the U.S. to qualified subscribers. Publisher reserves the right to reject non-qualified subscriptions. Subscription prices: U.S., $35 per year; Canada/Mexico, $60 per year; and all other countries, $85 per year. All subscriptions payable in U.S. funds, drawn on U.S. bank. Back issues, if available, cost $10 prepaid. Printed in the USA. Copyright 2020 AC Business Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recordings or any information storage or retrieval system, without permission from the publisher.

@greenindustrypros @greenindustrypros @greenindpros www.youtube.com/GreenIndustryPros

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SPECIAL REPORT

By Sheena Ingle

How

LANDSCAPING P Can Use Technology to Improve Business Operations

ncreasing sales and eliminating inefficiencies are some of the ways to make a difference in your landscaping company’s profit. While still a personal interactive business, landscapers across the country are finding that technology is a window into the operational side of the business. Many are now turning to business operations software to streamline the front office portion of their operation. Finding efficiencies in those areas can make a huge difference in everything from customer relations, budgeting, and workforce development. Green Industry Pros sat down with LandOpt director of success Andrew Dickson, Real Green Systems vice president of business development Beth Berry, Landscape Management Network (LMN) CEO and co-host of Landscape Disruptors Mark Bradley and, Lawnbot founder and CEO Kendall Hines to discuss some of the benefits of utilizing software and technology to manage a small business. Each offered some unique insights on how those in the green industry can utilize technology and other innovative techniques to improve various facets of their business operations.

Sales

Emerging technology can help landscaping company owners keep track of sales and profits

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year over the course the year. Lawnbot founder and CEO Kendall Hines gave a presentation about inbound sales and domination of inbound sales at Lawncology preCOVID in Georgia. During the presentation, he showed his sales reports from previous six years broken down by source code. He says they were using Real Green Systems at the time. “I think that’s really powerful when you can use systems like that, that you can go back multiple years and go down to the fine details,” Hines says. “I can tell you back in 2014 how many sales we got from a home show we did down to the dollar amount after discount.” His company, Lawnbot is now partnering with

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Real Green Systems on a program that enables users to “do anything a human can do in their business management system.” He says the program “can add a customer, book a sale, automatically post the program

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to lan the of ab R of Be is a “

and now our customers can integrate Lawnbot into their website and make sales 24/7,” she says. “We learned this from the master at TruGreen: whoever provides the first quote in today’s environment is pretty much going to win the business.” With business management software, company owners have access to services, jobs and crews that are benefiting or hurting the company. It saves countless hours of owners, managers or administrative professionals compiling the information because multiple systems are not compatible.

G PROS

to the account—so lawncare and landscaping companies can do what they do best and that’s taking care of customers, rather than worrying about data entry into the system.” Real Green Systems vice president of business development Beth Berry says AI bot technology is an exciting technology. “We’ve integrated with Lawnbot

Customer Relations + Accountability

As landscapers, you can’t talk about customer relations without also looking at project and business management. This is one industry in which these practices very much go hand in hand. Customers expect prompt service with any interactions and the right software platform can assist in that sort of engagement. LandOpt product development manager Andrew Dickson says customer relationship management (CRM) systems can enable landscapers to provide

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better customer service while improving efficiency. Through such software, landscapers can maintain their current relationships with their customers—whether that’s mass emails, campaigns, etc. Dickson says the software allows the users to foster that ongoing relationship. “We also believe in what we call a ‘care call,’ where at the end of any project the initial sales rep checks in with the customer to discuss how the project went,” he says, adding that good questions to ask during a care call include queries such as whether the project was successful and if the customer’s needs were met. He explains that this opens the door for either a maintenance contract or other future working relationships. Dickson also says care calls should be made not just immediately following a project, but also monthly, quarterly, and annually. He advises that sales reps should use tools such as FaceTime or other video calling services so clients can show them the lawn or other issues that might require attention. Berry also touts the use of instant communications, videos, and photos to better serve customers. “The ease of getting consumers to understand exactly what you’re talking about through video and photos over technology has expedited the sales process and made it more meaningful,” she says. As example, she imagines a lawn technician being able to video call a customer from the customer’s front yard and saying, “I’m on your front lawn and I see some grub damage. I’m going to go ahead and take care of that for you right now.” Berry explains that simple technologies also enable the same lawn care workers to easily bill for completed work and even get paid faster. Prompt invoicing and payments helps maintain a steady cash flow for your business.

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SPECIAL SPECIAL REPORT REPORT

Go or

Real Green and Lawnbot are partnering to offer innovative technology options to landscapers.

“The technician can then bill a customer immediately from the property and the customer can now electronically pay,” she says. “In the old days, it would take us 21 days on average to receive payment. By the time you hand wrote an invoice, left it on the consumer’s door and they put it in a snail mail envelope, the best-case scenario was about 21 days. Now you’re being paid instantly. As a green industry professional, that certainly helps the overall health of the business.” In addition, Berry points to the web-based, 24/7 customer portals that allow customers to request services, make payments, see the work that was done, read FAQs and perform a variety of additional self-service tasks that traditionally required leaving messages and waiting for a return call. Hines notes that he agrees with many of the statements of the other executives. He specifically cites the ability to use the software to set customers up on an automatic payment plan. “When you set up a client’s account on autopay, you put the card on the file, your employees go and do the work, and that system

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is automatically charging those credit cards for you,” he says. LMN CEO Mark Bradley says less than five percent of landscapers are using business management software, adding that those that do see tremendous growth in efficiency. “I think once companies do start to use the technology and embrace it and get their employees to do the same, they usually see a 30 to 40 percent increase in efficiency,” he says.

Labor Management

Another universal concern among landscaping company owners is labor. From finding skilled workers to attracting, hiring, managing, and retaining them, landscaping companies are always looking for more effective workforce development methods. Leading business management software packages offer mobile functionality to allow for increase accuracy in tracking of labor costs. Dickson advises using

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well-structured platforms for hiring and managing employees as well. “If you have structure, a process or system that you stick to, then you can repeat it. Tools like bamboo HR, Indeed and Workable allow us to have that structure,” he says. Also, Dickson suggests utilizing tools such as Microsoft Teams for effective staff communication and online accounting systems for streamlined timesheet and hours reporting protocols. Bradley believes comprehensive budgeting can help enable landscaping businesses to offer better pay to employees, thus attracting high quality candidates. “Only around five percent of

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landscapers are budgeting right now,” he says. “I think once they use some software to start doing that and they can budget more effectively, then they can start to estimate their projects with more meaningful markups and really understand how much they can actually afford to pay their staff.” Bradley believe the lack of understanding of the finances causes most business owners to underpay due in part because of the misconception of what they can and can’t afford if they have a staff. “What I’ve seen is once they start budgeting and estimating using software, they start to look at labor as more of an asset and less of a cost,” he says. “I think software allows them to track the efficiencies of the field staff.” Hines advises treating hiring in a similar way to sales and marketing. “I think it’s a really cutthroat world out there right now for employees,” he says. “We need to treat getting employees like getting new customers because unless you have the employees, the customers really don’t matter.” For example, Hines suggests when posting Facebook ads to do lookalike audiences and only show employment ads to people that are more inclined to be a lawn technician.

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To accomplish that, he says companies can get an email data set of sales of around 500 people from a local pesticide office, who tend to retain all their applicators’ names and contact information. Hines said the data can be purchased and then uploaded to Facebook as a look-alike audience. For the ad itself, Hines says to talk about how the company is the greatest, all the things the company does, the culture etc. Berry adds that landscaping company owners should make their intentions clear in any job ads. For instance, most landscaping companies pay for the certifications required for performing work but may not communicate that clearly in their job descriptions. “With all of the hype around what student loans cost today, we’re seeing customers say, ‘Free training and certification, we will pay for your training and certification.’ We’re finding that using that verbiage gets people in the door because prospects think, ‘This company is going to make an immediate investment in my future and career,’” Berry says. Today’s prospective employees are interested in the overall company culture. Hines says always

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proactively seeking employees can help a landscape company get the upper hand over competitors. For instance, he says while in line at a fast food restaurant and another customer is observed doing something that shows integrity, he says you should hand them your card right there and explain that you are always looking for people like them to join your crew. “Nine times out of 10, they would call me because they want to be part of a mission; they want to be part of a culture,” Hines says. “You have to be on the offensive in today’s economy for getting employees. Use every type of technology you can, texting, Facebook messages. It’s competitive out there. I’ve constantly heard two things. One is, you’ve got to improve your culture. And two is, you have to be hungrier and be on the offense.” Bradley notes that no matter the use, it is important for green industry companies to determine their needs, rather than just saying “I need more tech.” “There are some great things going on in the industry, but I think most landscapers have to clean up their own house before that technology is going to really cure the problem,” Bradley says. “That requires effective systems and organization.”

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EQUIPMENT FOCUS:

By Sara Jensen

Advancements in Battery Systems are Increasing

Continued developments in battery technology are bringing about higher power capabilities and additional use cases in the heavy equipment industry.

s electrification continues to advance in the heavy equipment and vehicle industries, so do the battery technologies available to power them. With these new battery

Webasto

technologies have come increases in power output as well as new applications in which they The Webasto are employed. CV Standard Nikola Motor Battery System Co., for instance, can be scaled announced in to provide the November 2019 it power necessary for a range of was introducing equipment types. a new battery technology with energy density of 1,100 watt-hours per kg on the material level and 500 watt-hours per kg on the production cell level. The prototype of this battery removes binder material and current collectors, enabling more energy storage within the cell. Use of the battery in Nikola’s battery electric trucks could enable them to drive 800 miles fully loaded

14 GREEN INDUSTRY PROS

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between charges, and reduce their weight by 5,000 lbs. compared to the competition if the same battery size was kept. Nikola’s hydrogenelectric fuel cell trucks could surpass 1,000 miles between stops and top off in 15 minutes. Mourad Chergui, product manager at Delta-Q Technologies, says battery technology has reached a point at which it allows heavy equipment to have the same duty cycle—typically an 8-hour shift—as traditional power sources. CASE Construction Equipment’s recently introduced fully electric backhoe loader is a demonstration of this capability. The 580 EV, also known as Project Zeus, is powered by a 480V, 90 kWh lithiumion battery pack which supports most common 8-hour workday applications on a single charge. Advancements like these show battery technologies are overcoming many of the concerns regarding range associated with electric vehicles and equipment.

Delta-Q Technologies

Development of the RQ350 came about due to increased conversion to lithium-ion batteries which could use a smaller charger.

As such, over the past several years many component manufacturers have begun diversifying their product portfolios to include batteries. Webasto—probably best known for its heating and cooling products— introduced in November 2019 its commercial vehicle (CV) Standard Battery System. Designed for scalability and

More manufacturers enter the battery space Development of electric powered equipment and vehicles will continue to increase in the coming years.

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Webasto

The Webasto battery system is a plug and play technology which helps OEMs reduce development time and costs.

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EQUIPMENT FOCUS

configuration flexibility, the battery pack provides 35 kWh of energy and allows up to 10 packs to be combined to provide enough power for larger equipment applications. Josh Lupu, director of marketing at Webasto, says the company started investing in high voltage technology around 2010 due to the increased interest and future growth it was seeing in regards to hybrid and electric vehicles. “We created the high voltage heater. That was our first entry into e-mobility or the electric powertrain,” he says. “That was the start of Webasto diversifying into non-combustion powertrains.” In 2016, the company started developing charging stations and acquired a charging station company in 2017, which is also when it started developing the CV battery system. It is a nickel rich NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) prismatic cell battery. Webasto chose the NMC chemistry because it provides high energy density as well as a long life. “We have a lifetime of 3,000 cycles or 8 years,” says Lupu. “This means if you fully discharged the battery if it was at 100 percent, and then fully charge it back up to 100 percent, you could do that every day for eight years.” He says in reality that is not how people will use the battery; no one usually fully discharges and recharges

Briggs & Stratton

The first demonstration of the Vanguard battery is on an ARGO J8 unmanned ground vehicle.

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it, but it’s been verified that it can withstand that type of use. “It’s very robust and made for extreme use cases,” adds Lupu. Briggs & Stratton is one of the latest engine manufacturers to announce its entry into Briggs & Stratton the battery development The Vanguard Commercial Lithium Ion market. “We’ve identified Battery pack was developed specifically that there’s a gap in the for the 0.5-20 kWh power range. marketplace of people that are powering units anywhere application.” from 0.5 kWh up to 20 kWh,” says She notes that an Christine Davison, senior manager advantage of Briggs’ technology is that marketing, Engines & Power at it only uses the power that is needed Briggs & Stratton. “We believe for a specific application. “You’re not there’s a big opportunity there.” using anything extra, you’re not paying She says there are some for power you don’t need, which is a manufacturers offering lead acid huge advantage for the OEMs we will batteries in that power range, but be working with,” says Davison. not lithium-ion technology. The company wanted to offer a flexible lithium-ion solution for this power A complete, modular system range, and so developed the Vanguard Creating a system which is modular Commercial Lithium Ion Battery pack. and can be customized to an In addition, the company saw application is beneficial for OEMs where the markets it serves were looking to develop electric vehicles. heading in the coming years and Having the ability to choose how wanted to position itself to be many battery packs to use in a more agnostic about the types machine based on its power needs of power systems it offers. helps ease their design process. Key markets it is looking at for the Lupu says Webasto’s is a plug and battery pack include construction, play system which reduces development agriculture, and traditional outdoor time, cost and resources for OEMs. power equipment such as lawn mowers. “We’ve had several customers want Equipment that would be used inside to use this system because they can a building would benefit from using have one supplier, one battery pack it to protect the health and safety of that they can use across their full workers as there would be no exhaust product line. They can use one [battery fumes emitted as would otherwise pack] on this piece of equipment, be the case with a gas engine. two on another piece of equipment, Davison says the system is and 10 on yet another, which customizable to an application. significantly simplifies their R&D.” “Although we first launched with Providing a complete system a 5 kWh 48V pack, as we move is also a key aspect. Davison says forward, and as more products and the Vanguard battery comes with more customers are being developed, the battery management system— those packs can be customized to an which ensures all components work

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EQUIPMENT FOCUS

CASE’s electric backhoe-loader is powered by a 480V, 90 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that can be charged by any 220V/three-phase connection.

together properly and safely—as well as the controller and charger. In addition, she says Briggs & Stratton is able to help OEMs with the design and integration of the battery. The company does all of the assembly and testing of the battery system which helps reduce development time and costs for equipment manufacturers. “Putting together the battery cell module and integrating it with the charger, battery management system, controller and motor is really where we deliver value because we’re bringing that whole system together to work,” in the OEM’s application says Davison. Webasto also provides a complete system consisting of the battery and vehicle interface box (VIB) which Lupu says is the brains of the system; it will load balance, houses the charging interface, constantly monitors the cells and keeps everything in a safe operating range. Proprietary software

Webasto chose a nickel manganese cobalt battery chemistry because of the high energy density and long life provided.

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developed in-house by Webasto is used in the VIB to recognize how many packs are hooked up and if they’re being run in parallel or series. Lupu says the same box and packs can be run at 400V if connected in parallel or at 800V if connected in a series. “That’s significant because it allows the manufacturer to be flexible in their design process.” It also prepares OEMs for the future because Webasto knows voltages will start to increase in the coming years. Right now, 400V is the norm for highvoltage electric powertrains. But Lupu says that in the near future it will rise to 800V, with many manufacturers already developing systems in this power range. “When you do that, you’re able to achieve more power with less current, which means you’re running cooler, can use thinner gauge wire and can charge the system faster,” he explains. The VIB has provisions for both the standard 240V AC , level 2 Webasto charging (J1772) and

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DC fast Case Construction Equipment charging, says Lupu. “It is completely up to the manufacturer which they choose to use in their application.” Webasto’s battery is liquid cooled; coolant paths within the battery enclosure use a 50/50 water glycol mix to cool it. Lupu says manufacturers can choose to use one of Webasto’s many battery cooling systems, one of which was developed specifically for the CV Standard Battery. It is an allin-one heating and cooling system capable of cooling the battery system with a capacity of 5 kW. Liquid heating capacity is in the range of 7-10 kW and provided by the company’s highvoltage heater. Sensors continuously monitor the temperature of the battery cell and command the use of heating or cooling to keep the system in a safe operating range.

Integrated battery charging In talking with OEMs and end users, Chergui says there is a drive toward having less maintenance on batteries. As such, they are wanting higher power levels, faster charging as well as the ability to utilize public charging infrastructure. Briggs & Stratton notes the Vanguard Battery Packs are

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EQUIPMENT FOCUS

serviceable which makes them unique within the market and will be beneficial for end users. Regarding charging technology, he says the trend is moving toward integration of battery chargers into a piece of equipment. On-board charging makes it easier for end users to charge the machine anywhere instead of having to go back to a home base and charge for several hours overnight, which Chergui says is typical with lead acid batteries. “I would attribute [the shift] to the emergence of lithium battery applications which require higher input rates,” he adds. “Having the equipment on board is definitely the way to go.” Growing use of lithium batteries lead Delta-Q to develop its latest charger, the RQ350, which is the company’s smallest and lowest powered charger at 350W. “When an OEM converts from a lead acid to a lithium battery, the vehicle and battery is much lighter,” explains Chergui. The lithium battery is 20 to 30 percent more efficient, and thus smaller than its lead acid counterpart which allows the charger to be more compact and smaller, as well. Because of this, their use in various off-road applications—particularly more compact equipment—is growing. Chergui notes the lawn and garden

segment, particularly mowers, is rapidly adopting battery technology. He says in the last three years the company has seen a huge shift from gas to electric in this segment which helped trigger the company to develop its latest chargers. Global emissions regulations and efficiency improvements will continue to drive development of electric power systems—and thus battery technology—in the coming years. “We’re going to see a lot more normalization of electrification and a lot of the components are going to be driven toward [becoming] a commodity item,” says Kevin Rhodes, Chief Engineer of Electrification at AVL. “That’s important because right now, a lot of things have to be custom made.” He believes a lot of components such as chargers and inverters will become standardized as power levels and use cases become more normalized. This will help drive down costs. He believes it will be the same with battery technology, which is currently a large cost driver of an overall electric powered system. Rhodes says more battery chemistries will continue being developed and more manufacturers will get into the battery space. “I think right now is really a great time to get

Delta-Q Technologies

into The RQ350 is Delta-Q’s that smallest space and lowest because it’s just powered going to continue charger at moving very 350W. rapidly. And if you’re not getting on board with it right now, as a company, you’re going to be left behind to some extent, and you really need to at least be advancing your knowledge of that and be ready for the changes that are going to be coming in the next 5, 10, 20 years,” he concludes.

DIVERSIFYING POWER OPTIONS While electric powered systems continue to advance, many in the heavy equipment industry agree that traditional diesel- and gas-powered engines are not going away any time soon. “We believe gas engines are going to be around for a really long period of time,” says Christine Davison, Senior Manager Marketing, Engines & Power at Briggs & Stratton. Battery technology is still in its infancy, she says, and there are many challenges yet to overcome, such as run time and quick charging capabilities.

Briggs & Stratton

The Vanguard battery comes with the battery management system as well as the controller and charger, offering a complete package for OEMs.

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But like many companies, Briggs & Stratton also knows there is a need to diversify power source options. “The beauty of what Briggs & Stratton does is we can provide products that complement each other to help customers get their jobs done,” says Gross. Customers could have some machines in their fleet which use engine power and others operating on battery power to meet their various needs. “So, it’s kind of a one stop shop from a power [perspective].”

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STATEMENT. Less Maintenance. More Profit. Vanguard® Oil Guard™ innovation reduces downtime associated with the most significant maintenance item — engine oil. Extending oil change intervals to 500 hours with cleaner, faster and easier oil changes, Oil Guard™ instantly increases productivity. That’s 60% cost savings per season, per unit on oil maintenance.* Innovation is what we do. *Cost savings based on standard oil maintenance with 100-hour service interval versus Oil Guard system 500-hour service interval.

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Hillenmeyer Landscaping Doesn’t Horse Around Every year, at least a third of the horses that bolt out of the paddocks at the Kentucky Derby have one thing in common: they all grazed and galloped on grass maintained by Hillenmeyer Landscape Services.

how that wouldn’t be a problem if we went with Vanguard engines.”

“In any given year, up to half of the Derby horses have some connection with a farm we are associated with or take care of,” said Chase Hillenmeyer, president of Hillenmeyer Landscape Services. “We’ve had a few winners on farms we’ve maintained.”

A factory tour of the engine manufacturing facility in Auburn, Alabama, solidified that promise. “We were blown away by watching the Vanguard production team and the quality controls they used. It gave us a lot of confidence,” he said.

With properties ranging from 400 acres all the way up to 2,500 acres, equine maintenance is a constant job in peak season. Hillenmeyer and his crew of 275 provide two types of mowing services for horse farms: common mowing, which is conventional grass cutting with a 60-inch ZTR mower around houses, barns and roadways; and field mowing, accomplished with a tractor and a 20-foot batwing application for mowing fields and paddocks. They also string trim fence lines, with one contract boasting 85-miles of fencing, and offer services such as mulching, edging and tree trimming. KEEPING UP IN KENTUCKY The Hillenmeyer fleet runs at a little more than 100 units, but in the past few years, the crew started to encounter problems with its engine manufacturer. “We were seeing a large number of engines blowing prematurely in the 1,000to 1,500-hour range,” said Hillenmeyer. “This caused us significant production problems, management problems and customer problems.” On top of the performance issues, Hillenmeyer experienced a lack of accountability on the engine manufacturer’s part, as well as the mower manufacturer that spec’d the engines. “You can have product failure, but you can’t have service failure — they had both,” said Hillenmeyer. So, they decided to make a change. Previously, Hillenmeyer had purchased some units spec’d with Vanguard® engines. “We looked at our fleet and saw that the engines with a Vanguard sticker on them lasted a lot longer than the ones without Vanguard stickers,” said Hillenmeyer. With that in mind and looking for alignment among his engine and mower manufacturer, Hillenmeyer and his team reached out to Briggs & Stratton to see what it could offer. FINDING HARMONY Hillenmeyer quickly discovered that not only did Vanguard engines offer the performance he was looking for, but an opportunity to work with several manufacturers that already worked in harmony with one another. “The chain of alignment among the Ferris®mowers, Vanguard engine teams and our local distributor really caught our attention,” he said. “When we spoke with them, they heard our challenges with previous manufacturers who didn’t work well together and showed us

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The final selling point for Hillenmeyer came down to maintenance. The BIG BLOCK™ V-Twin engine line he was eyeing came equipped with Vanguard’s innovative Oil Guard™ system. “We saw that Oil Guard would help us reduce our time spent on oil maintenance and therefore maintenance cost,” said Hillenmeyer. “Not to mention the larger oil reservoir that offers a little more margin of error on an engine blowing.” Taking all these factors into account, Hillenmeyer and his team went ahead and replaced 35 units — about a third of its fleet — with Ferris mowers equipped with Vanguard engines.

“

Uptime is key, and the Vanguard engines have certainly provided that. – Chase Hillenmeyer President of Hillenmeyer Landscape Services

”

A NEW SEASON With the Vanguard engines running the show this past season, reliability was never in question. “Uptime is key, and the Vanguard engines have certainly provided that,” said Hillenmeyer.

Now, the Hillenmeyer crew can get back to what it’s been doing for generations: providing professional landscaping services to central Kentucky. And while no one can be sure if its grass cutting has anything to do with determining the winners at the Kentucky Derby, Hillenmeyer has a theory. “Let’s just say that we do our job so well that the owners can focus that much more attention on the horses.”

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COVER STORY:

By Ryan Whisner

GIE+EXPO Looks Ahead to 2021

ue to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and continued regulatory uncertainty the 2020 GIE+EXPO was canceled in July. The driving factor that led to the cancelation of the show was safety. Unfortunately, the unpredictable nature of such a rapidly evolving environment prohibited this year’s show from taking place safely. “There’s just too much uncertainty at this time,” says Kris Kiser, president and CEO of OPEI, and managing partner of GIE+EXPO. Registrations were on pace to surpass 2019, which was a sixth record year in a row. Registration is currently open for GIE+EXPO 2021, which is scheduled to take place Oct. 20-22 in Louisville. “There’s a strong desire now for 2021 and most of those who registered for this year are rolling those monies over,” Kiser says. For exhibitors or registrants rolling funds over, the rates will remain flat. “There seems to be a robust interest in getting back together,” Kiser says. Known for referring to the show as a family reunion, he admits that he’s going to miss not having the show this year. “We’re looking forward to 2021 and already gearing up to make our next show a dynamic and engaging experience for the entire industry,” he says. “I encourage exhibitors and attendees that have already registered or secured exhibit space to roll those monies forward to the 2021 show.” GIE+EXPO has called

Louisville home since the tradeshow began nearly 40 years ago. Next fall, attendees and exhibitors will experience several updates to the Kentucky Exposition Center grounds. The facility is undertaking $8 million in outdoor improvements and enhancements, including: • Replacing the main entry gates to improve ingress and egress • Expanding paved areas on the north side of the building to increase exhibit space opportunities • Relocating more than 126,000 cubic yards of dirt, the equivalent of 63 football fields (or over one million wheelbarrows full), to the Outdoor Demonstration Area to improve drainage and irrigation to the grounds • Adding permanent driving lanes to the Demo Area • Improving pedestrian access from nearby hotels by adding sidewalks that extend from Phillips Lane to the new main gate Looking ahead to 2021, the lingering question is how comfortable attendees will be in the fall to come to the show. “Right now, I think our big focus will be on making the 2021 the best show ever,” Kiser says.

GIE+EXPO ToGo

To make up for cancelation of the 2020 show, OPEI is offering GIE+EXPO ToGo, a free online portal that will connect industry members to the new innovations they would have found at the 2020 show. “As the industry adapts to our new business reality, manufacturers and suppliers are responding and looking for ways to stay connected to the thousands of outdoor equipment dealers, retailers, landscapers and hardscape contracts they would have met,” Kiser says. “This year, GIE+EXPO ToGo will be that point of connection.” The portal launched in early October and will remain active through the end of 2020. Visitors are encouraged to register for the free My ToGo Planner, which will allow them to save exhibitor listings, links, and product informationi. It also provides access to show specials and discounts. “We might be able to do something digitally, but certainly for me we’re never going to recreate it or recast it without the live event.” Kiser says. “If you were looking forward to seeing new products and shopping for your company at the show, you’ll definitely want to set up a free account and explore the portal.” If there is genuine interest, in January the portal may turn more to showcasing and marketing for the 2021 show. “Part of it is kind of a wait and see how it does and what kind of engagement we get and who

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LANDSCAPES is really designed so that average participant will probably plug in for over that five to six-hour time frame t -s ni l li n for just a couple hours. Pe . ©M “It’s not everything for everyone kind of all at once and it is a very different dynamic of not being there,” he notes. The schedule was split up and make it as easy as possible for people to engage in limited timeframes while still being interested. “At NALP we continue to focus on how to help our members grow and determine what the best tools are get them there,” Wood says. “We’re going to have some hiccups along the way, but we’re trying to get them the best content as possible.” Heading into the event, members are already signing up for the virtual version of LANDSCAPES. “I wouldn’t be being honest, if there wasn’t a semblance of disappointment because they can’t get together in person,” Wood says. “This is a group that loves to get together. I will say that they have been very positive in terms of saying, hey, look, we’ve got lemons here, let’s do our best to make some lemonade.” He added that landscapers are ad

There will be some educational components in 2020 that will be offered virtually by the National Association of Landscape Professionals. In the early stages of the pandemic, NALP executive director Britt Wood notes that he, Kiser, and the other show partners were in constant conversation about the 2020 show. As COVID-19 kept intensifying the realization was the show was not likely to occur. NALP made adjustments and through surveys and communication with members created LANDSCAPES 2020 The Virtual Experience. Many of the educational sessions originally scheduled for Oct. 20-22, will take place online. To accommodate an online audience, the sessions will be shorter, so an hour-long program might be 30 to 45 minutes. Also, they will be pre-recorded and then the speaker will be available for a live Q&A at the conclusion.

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LANDSCAPES 2020

“The thing I’ve come to appreciate about this industry at every event I’ve attended is that the Q&A is incredible,” he says. “There is no hesitation by this audience to ask questions.” The approximately 40 sessions will be available for the remainder of the year, so if attendees miss one that is scheduled at the same time as another, they will have an opportunity to catch it on the backside. “We think that’s going to be a unique facet of this and we’re interested to see how much it gets utilized,” Wood says. “As with a lot of virtual things, it’s a lot of experimentation.” In addition, although the event will be virtual, NALP has made similar adjustments to its popular Breakfast with Champions and converted it to four different Zoom with Champions sessions over the three-day event. Wood says the sessions feature roundtable discussions on current industry topics and due to the format, there will be four different Zoom with Champions sessions over the three-day event. Combined, he says the virtual

shows up,” Kiser says. Starting Oct. 1 the portal was accessable via www.gie-expo.com and www.hardscapena.com. “We think it could be an online component for us to engage with our participants, our exhibitors, and our attendees year-round,” Kiser says. “Back in the day the show had a global flavor and we want to again showcase our expo to the world,” Kiser says. “It really is the only event of its kind. There are bigger shows and there are certainly shows that have power equipment, but not like ours. We think this will help us communicate to a more global audience.”

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COVER STORY:

always looking for how opportunities on how they can get better. “I think what we want to do is give them that that information about how they can get better and they’re going to take it from there and they’re going to want to ask questions,” Wood says. “I think the team has done a really great job of putting together something that the industry can benefit from and really hitting on the topics that are important.”

Destress in Your Own Backyard

“Due to the pandemic, we are gaining a fuller understanding of the importance of the outdoors—from our yard and parks to school yards and sports fields. They are essential to our well-being and to nature, itself,” Kiser says. “We are reconnecting to the family yard in a way we haven’t seen for many years. It feels like a lot the way it used to be, where we’ve all gotten to know our neighbors a little better and had some time outside in our yards.” He notes that time spent in green space like your yard, is good for you.

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“What we’ve learned during this period is the extraordinary importance of the living landscape to our mental and physical health, especially for homeowners who have a yard,” Kiser says. There’s a lot of anecdotal evidence from landscapers and even some of OPEI’s manufacturer partners that people are taking better care of their lawns again. “Remember that was an old attitude, to have a lot of pride in how your yard looked and taking care of it,” he says. “That seemed to fade somewhat and it’s back and we hope it’s here to stay.” Generally speaking, landscapers are busy and having a fairly good year. “Although this is a horrible, challenging time for many, there is certainly a recognition of the importance of the work we do and our members and business partners do,” Kiser says. Despite the need to cancel this year’s show, the industry continues to thrive. “Manufacturers, landscapers, and outdoor power equipment dealers have been deemed essential during

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this ongoing pandemic, and the industry continues to play a major role in keeping greenspaces around the country safe and accessible,” says Kiser. On the manufacturing side of the green industry, very few of the factories have closed during the pandemic. While many went into remote work with modified protocols for safety at the actual factories, products continued being made. Kiser says there was a window of time where it became difficult to purchase a walk-behind mower at a big box store due to the demand from at-home consumers. “All these people stuck at home are out buying chainsaws, and walk-behinds,” Kiser says. He acknowledged that sales are softer for the larger commercial zero-turn units. “I think what a lot of folks (landscaping companies) have been doing is holding on to their cash, uncertain of the situation,” he says. “The landscapers are busy now and they’re coming back into the commercial market for new machines. We’re starting to see those numbers tick back up.” Overall, Kiser says the manufacturers within the industry are making products and it’s moving off the shelves. “We’re having a pretty good year,” he says, noting that there are many opportunities to learn how to improve areas to continue to thrive. “There’s a lot to learn from 2020 and a lot to share with one another and the best place to do that is 2021 GIE+EXPO,” Kiser says. The team is already gearing up to make the 2021 show a dynamic and engaging experience for the entire industry next October. “It’s a great trade show and obviously, it’s good business, but it’s also a lot of fun to see our friends and family, so I’m going to miss it this year but I think there’s a lot of energy already for 2021,” he says.

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Vanair’s Viper Gas and Diesel rotary screw air compressors are designed to deliver continuous air power at the right amount of power to winterize a sprinkler system. While you can blow out sprinkler lines by zones, having this continuous air eliminates the need to wait for the air compressor to pressurize, saving

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80 CFM of air power in a compact, affordable design! Vanair’s Viper air compressors are available in gas and diesel and deliver up to 80 CFM and 150 PSI of air power to blow out the lines of the largest irrigation systems. It is compact enough to fit into even the smallest pickup truck bed — making them ideal for irrigation and hardscaping applications. The portability of the Viper systems allows for easy interchange from one vehicle to another and are available with running gear. Viper Series air compressors offer heavy-duty, compact power, on or off your truck bed, and the flexibility that only a transportable unit can offer.

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EXMARK LEGACY 25 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE Over the last 25 years, the Exmark Lazer Z® may have changed in looks, but has maintained the same standard of excellence with its notable cut quality, productivity, durability and up-time performance. Professional cutters and homeowners alike have aspired to be a part of the legacy and experience the Lazer Z’s superior cut quality, productivity, durability and performance. Built for easier maintenance and longer life, a Lazer Z is simply tougher and easier to operate. And since one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to professional zero-turn mowers, Exmark offers a complete line of Lazer Z mowers to fit anyone’s specific needs. NEW select gas-powered Lazer Z models can be outfitted with Tractus drive tires. These allnew airless tires are an Exmark exclusive designed to eliminate flat tire downtime, increase traction, enhance ride quality and boost durability for added tire life. Learn more at Exmark.com

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ADDING TO THE LEGACY New to the Exmark family of products, Z Turf Equipment brand has significantly expanded its product line, with a number of new models based on legacy Exmark designs. First, well-known for its rich history in lawn care industry, is the Z-Spray spreader-sprayers. The complete line-up includes: the Z-Spray LTS, Z-Spray Junior, Z-Spray Mid and Z-Spray Max standon models. Next, the Z-Aerate line will expand in 2021 from one model to four, including stand-on aerators in 40-, 30- and 24-inch widths. Other new 2021 Z Turf Equipment includes the versatile 20-inch Z-Seed slicer seeder, which performs three jobs with each pass: verticutting, dethatching and overseeding. Z Turf Equipment has also added more than 700 North American dealers, making it easier than ever for customers to get the parts and service support they need to keep their machines running at peak productivity. Learn more at ZTurfEquipment.com

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NEW PRODUCTS

Bobcat Company ZS4000 With a compact size, extra ground clearance and large drive tires, the Bobcat Company’s ZS4000 stand-on mower gets over and around obstacles and on to the next job. Features include:

• Bullnose AirFX 48-, 52- or 61-inch deck with Air-Gap baffles bolt-in cast-iron spindles. DuraDeck cutting system available on the 36-inch • Operator station design and in-frame fuel tank provide “center of mass” stability • Kawasaki FX series or EFI engine • Tool-free controls • Easily removable operator pad for service access • Flip-up anti-vibration platform reduces vibration and fatigue for comfortable ride • Hydro-Gear ZT-3100 or 3400 hydrostatic transmission • 2,000 hour bumper to bumper warranty

Kubota LX Series Compact Tractors Kubota Tractor Corporation recently unveiled its new LX Series compact tractor line. The LX Series has the versatility to tackle rural residential tasks while providing the power and comfort to handle commercial applications as well. Features include:

• Kubota diesel engines ranging from 24.9 to 30.8-hp • Capable of operating 60- and 72-inch mid-mount mowers • Front loader with a lift capacity of more than 1,000 lbs., backhoe, and front snow removal implements • Three-point hitch for a wide variety of rear implements including five-foot rotary cutters, box blades, tillers, post-hole diggers and more • Goodyear R14 crossover tires, made by Titan International, Inc., with a hybrid tread design optimized for performance for a variety of snow, ice, turf, or mud applications • ROPS and cab model features available in both a deluxe ROPS open station and factory cab model include cruise control and tilt-steering. • Cab model is equipped with a 4-pillar integrated cabin, and includes an air conditioner and heater • Deluxe suspension seat and arm rests with deeper suspension that keeps operators comfortable and productive • Available in three models, LX2610SU ROPS model and LX2610 and LX3310

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Toro Horizon360 Toro’s Horizon360 App helps cut the chaos down to size whether it’s helping track your crew and equipment, to automating your billing system and beyond. Features include:

• Communication in real-time with crews for job notes/photos, proof of service, and scheduling • Cloud-based storage of customer data, crew details, job schedules and more • GPS technology allows for remote job estimates • Geofencing provides ability to track crew’s movements and ensure equipment is where it is supposed to be. • Compatible with all brands www.greenindustrypros.com/21096042

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Buyers Products Landscape Trailer Accessories Buyers Products offers an expanded line of racks and accessories for landscape trailers with racks for trimmers, hedgers, blowers and other landscape equipment. The line is focused on simple-to-use racks with minimal out-of-thebox assembly.

• “All-in-one” storage solution that leaves the floor below it open for riding mowers • Basket with space for gas cans and loose items, a rack for blowers, a trimmer line holder, and an optional rack for hand tools • Other features include a lockable blower rack, a lockable “multi-rack” for chainsaws or hedge trimmers, and multiple sizes of trimmer racks

Scag Turf Storm Stand-on Spreader-Sprayer

www.greenindustrypros.com/21130164

Scag Turf Storm stand-on spreader sprayer is described as a tool for the serious landscape chemical applicator, and anyone looking to expand their lawn care offerings. Fit for large commercial properties it also is comfortable while treating residential lawns. Features include:

• Dual hydraulic drive system • 21-hp Vanguard engine • 220-pound hopper dry/granular capacity. • Dual 30-gallon liquid tanks (60 gallons total) with drain valves for easy draining and cleaning • Spraying widths up to 10 feet • Machine balance ensures sure footing • Spacious operator platform with extra-large operator comfort cushion paired with coil-spring suspension for a smooth ride www.greenindustrypros.com/21174224

Kyocera DuraXV Extreme Flip Phone Kyocera’s DuraXV Extreme flip phone features push-to-talk (PTT) with a dedicated side button, removable 1700mAh Li-Ion battery and a wide array of PTT accessories.

• Fast 1.2GHz, 64-bit Quad-core A53 processor • Large font and clear display • Large, tactile, glove-friendly keypad and buttons • Fully customizable; arrange main menu with frequently used apps • Programmable buttons: SOS, PTT, Speaker and Stop Keys • Supports Wi-Fi calling with HD voice and mobile Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices • 5MP auto-focus camera with LED flash; non-camera version of device available • IP68, dust proof, waterproof, Military Standard 810G certified and Non-incendive Class I, Div 2 certified for hazardous location protection • 100dB+ front facing, dual-loud speakers, and dual-mic noise cancellation for audio clarity www.greenindustrypros.com/21125780

www.greenindustrypros.com

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NEW PRODUCTS  Kawasaki FX1000V EFI Engine Kawasaki introduces the FX1000V EFI to its line of EFI engines which provide high performance power to numerous OEM applications, including commercial mowers and heavy-duty industrial and construction equipment. Features include:

• A 38.5-hp (28.7 kW) SAE certified engine • Integrated electronic throttle control, three valves per cylinder, a commercial canister air filtration system, and magnetic clean-out ports for easy tool-less maintenance • Uniquely designed rain cap cover and new hex-shaped screen guard • Open-loop EFI system provides simple, efficient, reliable performance • Integrated electronic throttle control instantly adjusts engine power-to-load for maximum cutting power at higher speeds, cleaner mowing in heavy turf, and fewer re-cuts • High pressure returnless fuel system offers consistent fuel delivery and maintains smooth operation in high temperature conditions • Multi-port sequential fuel injection provides high-precision fuel delivery to maximize powerper-stroke and achieves more work with less fuel • Electronic control unit (ECU) is constantly monitoring ambient conditions and real-time engine performance to adjust as needed and deliver optimum power and efficiency • EFI system coordinates with OEM systems for seamless, efficient integration of controls, sensors, and displays www.greenindustrypros.com/21131813

 Mean Green Rival 52/60 The Rival is the latest mower of the new evolution series mowers by Mean Green Mowers, with up to 7 hours of continuous use. Additional features include:

• Touch Screen Display • 52- or 60-inch design • Impulse Drive System(IDS) • Side Discharge • Michelin Tweels (front) • SmartDeck Electronic Deck Lift System With Foot Pedal • High/Low Blade Speed Control • Dual Support Anti-Scalp Wheel Mounts • 20 degree slope capability • Comfort Suspension Seat

 SmartGate Conveyor Tailgate Replacement Units Using the SmartGate Conveyor tailgate replacement units, landscapers can unload products from the back of their truck into a wheelbarrow or curbside with a touch of a button. The unit handles a wide variety of products that range in size from screened topsoil and compost, all the way up to 3 x 5 inch decorative gravel. Additional features:

• Replaces and functions as a regular tailgate, it allows for bulk, dump off use, and does not hinder towing a trailer • Can be installed on electric over hydraulic or fully hydraulic dump trucks • No retrofitting to most dump bodies • Attaches/detaches in minutes, however there is no need to attach and detach for every job • Does not hinder bulk deliveries • Unloads out either side • Eliminates one laborer • All functions remote controlled

www. greenindustrypros. com/21136161

www.greenindustrypros.com/21136156

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 Great Day Hitch-N-Go Cart Great Day’s Hitch-N-Go cart (HNGC-350) adds a new dimension of packing capacity to any vehicle with a 2-inch hitch receiver. The Hitch-N-Go Ride is ideal for transporting anything from bags of fertilizer or mulch, suitcases, coolers, tools and more. Additional features include:

• Constructed of powder coated welded aluminum • Wagon weight: 45 lbs • 350 lb. load capacity • Inside cargo area dimensions: 48 x 20 x 11-inches • 13 x 4 inch pneumatic tires • Cart fits through most doorways • Tight turning radius makes for easy maneuverability • Coupling component can easily be stored in vehicle

 Syngenta Manuscript Herbicide Manuscript herbicide is a highly active, post-emergence herbicide that controls mature, grassy weeds in certain warm-season grasses on golf courses, residential and commercial lawns, sod farms, and sports turf. With Manuscript, you can get application flexibility needed to treat mature weed.

• Formulated with a built-in, proprietary safener to enhance performance and turf safety • Consistent control on mature, grassy weeds • Applications recommended during the summer between end of May and beginning of September when desirable turf is actively growing and fills in voids after weeds are controlled • May be applied as a broadcast treatment for control of bull/thin paspalum • Spot treatments recommended for difficult-to-control weeds like tropical signalgrass and crabgrass breakouts • Active ingredient is pinoxaden, which is rapidly absorbed and translocated to the growing points of weed foliage for improved safety and resistance management

www.greenindustrypros.com/21135516

www.greenindustrypros. com/21132866

www.greenindustrypros.com

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WANT IT?

OWN IT. 312GR SKID STEER

INTRODUCING THE

OWN IT OFFER

485

PER 1,2 MONTH

540 WITH CAB

¹O se U th o eq

Take advantage of the OWN IT OFFER and get special financing on select compact models that are easy on the wallet and tough on the job. You know you’ve always wanted Deere quality... now, OWN IT.

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ยนOffer valid on qualifying purchases of new equipment made between 1 April 2020 to 31 October 2020. Subject to approved installment credit with John Deere Financial, for commercial use only. Down payment may be required. Average down payment is 10%. Taxes, freight, setup, delivery charges and optional features could increase monthly payment. Available at participating U.S. dealers. Prices and available models may vary by dealer. Offers available on qualifying purchases of new equipment purchased in the U.S. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars. 2Qualified equipment includes the 312GR canopy package (0700) or cab package (0710) with 10x16.5 tires, vinyl mechanical suspension seat, seat belt (2" for canopy package and 3" for cab package), and 66" construction bucket. 3Qualified equipment includes the 316GR canopy package (0700) or cab package (0715 or 0745) with 10x16.5 tires, vinyl mechanical suspension seat, seat belt (2" for canopy package and 3" for cab package), and 66" construction bucket. 4Qualified equipment includes the 317G canopy package (0730) or cab package (0735) with 12.6" offset block lug tracks, vinyl mechanical suspension seat, seat belt (2" for canopy package and 3" for cab package), and 66" construction bucket. 5Qualified equipment includes the 17G canopy unit with a 12" bucket with teeth. 6Qualified equipment includes the 30G canopy or cab unit with an 18" bucket with teeth.

JohnDeere.com/OwnIt

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NEW PRODUCTS

John Deere Dump-from-Seat MCS John Deere is providing customers with a more efficient product for collecting grass clippings with a new and improved Dump-from-Seat Material Collection System (MCS). The new design of the MCS moves the fulcrum of the dump lever closer to the operator for easier operation. With the new design, operators can be more efficient when dumping materials. Features include:

• Compatible with all John Deere gas-powered Z900 ZTrak zero-turn mowers • Heavy-duty steel blower, to help increase productivity and reduce clogs while operating. The blower finely chops materials, enhancing the collection process, while the powerful suction requires less passes, resulting in saved time and money • Tool-free clips provide easy access to the chute if a clog occurs • Reduces the overall length by 14 inches and width by 6 inches versus the previous model, making it easier to maneuver and transport • Weight with a full collection system is two percent lighter than the previous model, reducing fuel usage and improving ground compaction www.greenindustrypros.com/21138182

DO MORE

WITH YOUR MOWER!

USE THIS

FOR ANYONE WHO NEEDS A HOLE UNDER SOMETHING HARD!

TO DO THIS AND SAVE A LOT OF TIME

“

The JRCO Leaf Plow is one of the best investments I’ve made this year!

”

Save time and money with JRCO Heavy-Duty Attachments for Commercial Mowers. By using attachments for your lawn mower, you get the job done twice as fast and also save space by not hauling additional equipment. Do more with your mower!

• AAordable price • Saves money • Compact • Two year warranty • Most drills powered by a 4 cycle Honda engine • Goes from horizontal to vertical in two minutes • Removes soil under concrete, no water needed • Drills holes up to 8” • Don’t have to close a sidewalk or driveway to bore under it • Built in the USA • Fast, Reliable, AAordable.

SPOT SPRAYERS

TINE RAKE DETHATCHERS

TRANSPORTER

AERATORS

CANOPIES

LEAF BLADE PLOW

BLOWER BUGGY

BROADCAST SPREADER

The 2020 GIE+EXPO is cancelled but SiBore Drill is ooering

FREE SHIPPING

Until October 31, 2020 (applies to lower 48 states)

330.844.0042 | SiBoreDrill.com 36 GREEN INDUSTRY PROS

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T A

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

866-537-6168 • jrcoinc.com/GIP

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”

ECHO Inc. CS-2511T Chainsaw ECHO Incorporated’s CS-2511T is designed for the user looking for a light-weight, powerful and durable chainsaw. This 12- or 14-inch bar-length chainsaw in the ECHO X-series is perfect for trimming, shaping and pruning. Features include:

• 25 cc professional-grade, 2-stroke engine • Weight: 5.2 lbs • Choke with automatic fast idle for easy starting • Clutch-driven adjustable oiler • Dual-post chain brake for durability • Fine grid starter cover to prevent debris ingestion • G-Force Engine Air Pre-Cleaner for extended filter life • Side-access chain tensioner for easy chain adjustment • Large 1-inch fuel and oil caps for easy filling • Rear-mounted air filter for easy access

Verizon Connect Integrated Video for Fleet Integrated Video for Fleet is an extension of Verizon Connect’s Integrated Video for Reveal product and helps improve safety, mitigate risk, and improve driver behavior. The product uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to help businesses improve driver behavior and understand details of specific driving events. The smart dash-cam solution intelligently captures and automatically classifies harsh driving events in near-real time, providing video analysis that can be used to help keep drivers safe on the road, protect them against false claims in the event of an incident, and coach and reward drivers. Additional features include:

www.greenindustrypros.com/21173691

• Speed Overlay enables operations managers to easily view the speed of the vehicle directly within the video clip to determine if speed is a factor that caused the event • Video on Demand allows operations managers to request video clips of available footage directly from the dash cam www.greenindustrypros.com/21136388

G IN NG M GI M I D E TRD EUID AN G YEAR-ROUND USAGE

OL A MUST-HAVE TmO puses

R T

D E

E R N PO

OSS I SE

for Landscapers & Ca

IOC

ECPR

t to load, haul

so fas Saves Time - starts ﬂat,cuts job times in HALF! and empty material ppings, leaves, hedge Easy to collect grass cli s and event trash! trimmings, weeds, stick loads...ERGONOMIC! Safer method to manage gs and tarps! tes expensive plastic ba

Elimina

0920GIP_30-51_NewProducts.indd 37

et and our landﬁlls!

Protect your crews, budg Custom Branding Available LeafBurrito.com | 800-BURRITO

859-384-3276 | www.edgit.com www.greenindustrypros.com

gths x 7.33’

| Available in 5’ & 7’ len

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VALUE TESTIMONIAL

HIGH QUALITY

TOOL MOUNTING BRACKETS Performance Advantage Company (PAC), established in 1992, is a privately owned company which manufactures and markets high quality tool mounting brackets. PAC has successfully serviced the Fire Service industry for more than 25 years and has now entered other markets including Landscaping, Utility, Towing/Racing, EMS, Law Enforcement, Military, and Homeland Security. The products PAC offers are designed to mount tools safely and securely. Versatile and flexible mounting options provide the most efficient and accessible solutions for tools and equipment. Whether new or in-service vehicles, PAC products can be customized for individual needs and requirements. PAC utilizes the best possible materials and manufacturing methods which result in long lasting service. PAC’s products are tested to the highest standards and have a lifetime warranty. If any PAC product fails under normal use, it is replaced, free of charge. Performance Advantage Company’s most popular tool mounting bracket is the Handlelok (P/N 1004). The Handlelok provides an adjustable positive locking method to secure axes, hammers, bars, and many other tools and equipment. The Stretchlok Strap allows instant release of tools. The Handlelok has two pivot points that allow for added grip range. It is molded from high quality materials, is weather and UV resistant, and is non-conductive. The Handlelok has a soft textured pad for extra grip and can be mounted horizontally or vertically. PAC is proud to provide the best possible customer service. PAC maintains a large inventory to ensure that most orders are fulfilled quickly. Knowledgeable sales, engineering and technical support, installation and training representatives are available to assist customers with their needs. Stop by and visit our GIE EXPO Booth #2010 or check us out at www.pactoolmounts.com. You can also call our highly experienced and professional customer support team at 1-888-514-0083.

www.pactoolmounts.com 38 GREEN INDUSTRY PROS

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1-888-514-0083 ❙

www.greenindustrypros.com

9/29/20 2:58 PM

Dealer Inquiries Welcome

PAC Brackets Are Tough!

PAC Protection & Services ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

Limited Lifetime Warranty Nationwide Global Distribution #1 In Customer Service Fast Order Turn Around

For More Information, Give Us A Call @ 888-514-0083

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NEW PRODUCTS

Takeuchi TL8R2 Compact Track Loader Takeuchi-US’ redesigned TL8R2 is engineered to provide superior power, strength, and maneuverability. The radial lift design offers a tipping load of 6,041 pounds with an operating weight of 9,182 pounds.

• 74.3-hp turbocharged Tier 4 compliant engine • Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to minimize emissions • Creep Mode is a standard feature on the TL8R2 models equipped with high flow auxiliary hydraulics and enables operators to precisely match the forward speed of the track loader to a particular attachment without having to constantly meter the travel lever. Automotive styled operators station features a 5.7-inch multi-informational color display with a rearview camera and a sealed rocker • switch bank. • Standard equipment includes low-effort pilot controls and proportional auxiliary switches. • Optional pressurized cab is available. www.greenindustrypros.com/21138184

Turfco Torrent 2 PTO Debris Blower Turfco’s Torrent 2 PTO Debris Blower helps contractors and turf managers looking to reduce work time spent on debris management.

FX Luminaire Line-Voltage Series The FX Luminaire Line-Voltage Series expands beyond low-voltage lighting with total flexibility in color temperatures, beam angles, and outputs up to 3,000 lumens. World-class engineering and a modern design aesthetic are combined to create a full range of nextgeneration solutions. Features include:

• Removable cartridges to simplify routine maintenance • Tamper-resistant elements offer safety and security in public spaces • Sleek, minimalist designs complement any setting • Add zoning and dimming with a Luxor Cube device www.greenindustrypros.com/21139897

• Weight: 340 lbs • PTO version connects to standard turf tractor with minimum 20-hp engine to run blower hydraulics • Handheld controller allows operator to change nozzle direction on-the-fly without having to slow down • Optional patented MagnaPoint technology eliminates guesswork and allows operator to preset blower to optimal degree for the job at hand www.greenindustrypros.com/21139389

Nufarm Panther MTZ Nufarm’s Panther MTZ is the latest in the portfolio of innovative Panther herbicides formulated to help growers gain weed management efficacy, resistance management and lasting residual control that improves flexibility come spring. Panther MTZ offers two modes of action, the dual-benefit of swift burndown and lasting residual, and an optimal load of metribuzin at a lower application rate than competing premixes.

• Broad spectrum control of more than 90 weed species • Labeled uses for soybeans, sugarcane, fallow (including wheat/fallow rotations), non-crop farm area and industrial vegetation management • Flexible fall or spring application timing and tank mixing www.greenindustrypros.com/21174506

40 GREEN INDUSTRY PROS

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NEW PRODUCTS

Bobcat Company ZT7000 Built to make your bottom line, the Bobcat Company’s ZT7000 is the peak of toughness and the best-in-the-business performance. Features include:

• Bullnose AirFX 61- or 72-inch deck with Air-Gap baffles for efficient airflow and vacuum lift • Operator station design and in-frame fuel tank provide “center of mass” stability • Kawasaki FX1000V or Briggs & Stratton Vanguard EFI engine • Comfort Command Center with extra tall suspension seat, almond-shaped handles, antivibration footplate and responsive controls • Swing-away bumper also gives operators fast access to internal components, so tune-ups are more efficient, plus there’s also an additional hitch system. • Hydro-Gear ZT-5400 hydrostatic transaxles featuring a twospeed foot pedal for transport speeds of up to 19 mph • Dual 15-gallon fuel tanks • 15-inch no flat caster wheels • 2,000 hour bumper to bumper warranty

Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT String Trimmer (XRU17) Makita’s 18V X2 LXT (36V) cordless string trimmer (XRU17) has power equivalent to a 30cc gas string trimmer. Features include:

www.greenindustrypros.com/21174501

• Makita-built BL brushless motor • 17-inch cutting swath with wide debris shield • Variable speed trigger switch for controlled cutting speed • Steel drive shaft for less vibration and longer equipment life • Three speed options (4,600/5,500/7,000 RPM) • Automatic Torque Drive technology mode automatically shifts speeds to extend run time or add power. • Reverse rotation function allows operator to quickly clear trimmer head of entangled grass and weeds • Loop handle with a barrier bar and shoulder strap to make compatible with brush cutter blade • Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) for increased durability and longer tool life • Star Protection Computer Controls for improved performance and extended battery life

GSE 400 Gallon Unit The Graham Spray Equipment 400-Gallon spray unit is an excellent starter truck that features a rugged steal frame housing a PC400 tank, split 110/290. The 290-gallon tank uses mechanical agitation, while the 110-gallon tank is powered with jet agitation. This rig also includes:

• John-Bean R-10 pump and dual regulator • Banjo dual tank strainer • Hannay electric reel with a roll of 600 PSI hose and a Lesco spray gun • Fits on a long wheel-base Ford, Chevrolet, or GMC pick-up www.greenindustrypros.com/21139818

www.greenindustrypros. com/21173835

42 GREEN INDUSTRY PROS

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NEW BR 800 SERIES

REAL FORCE    ƒ

 

“ Unbelievable how much power this thing has... If you want the best backpack blower money can buy, here it is! Easy to maintain, easy to use, light, reliable.” User: Oyibo Robust Engine Power 4.4 bhp engine

Heavy-Duty Force

Avg./Max Air Velocity is 199 mph/239 mph (As measured per ANSI B 175.2)

Sturdy Performance

Best power-to-weight ratio in the STIHL gasoline blower line

BR 800 X MAGNUM® | BR 800 C-E MAGNUM®

CHECK OUT THIS REVIEW AND OTHERS ON THE PRODUCT PAGES AT STIHLUSA.COM

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NEW PRODUCTS

Ryan Jr. Sod Cutter - Hydro

RYAN, has released the all-new Jr. Sod Cutter – Hydro that features a variable speed hydrostatic transmission with forward and reverse drive. Additional features include:

Workwave OnLine Review Platform WorkWave, has an Online Reviews platform, with updated features and functionality that allow field service companies of all sizes to generate more leads and close more sales. The new platform enables companies to gather and respond to reviews online, as well as collect valuable insights they can act upon based on the ability to match the reviewer to its customer account within the WorkWave PestPac application.The updated Online Reviews platform empowers field service companies to:

• 18- or 24-inch cutting widths • Cast-iron gear case that encloses oil lubricated final drives to both wheels and the cutting blade • Featires ultra-low vibration technology, which reduces hand vibration by

• Make informed decisions through actionable reporting • Increase operational efficiency through seamless integration • Protect their companies against poor reviews • Generate more positive reviews to win new customers • Retain quality employees by collecting customer feedback

up to 75 percent. • Easy-Steer technology, where the rear caster wheel can lock in place to hold straight lines, or unlock for easier maneuvering www.greenindustrypros.com/21139841

www.greenindustrypros.com/21139966

Th by ow

Mecalac A1600 Swing Loader

Mecalac’s 12-ton AS1600 swing loader features the unique ability to pivot its bucket 90 degrees to either side. Additional features include:

• Rigid frame • Standard 2.1-cubic yard bucket • Three steering options: 2-wheel, 4-wheel and crab • Bucket capacities range from 2.1-3.3 cubic yards • Automatically engaging rear axle

Truck Mate mounts to the hitch receiver on any standard pick-up truck allowing you to unload material like mulch, stone, and topsoil and convey it in either direction directly into a wheelbarrow. The conveyor can also be removed from the tarp roller allowing you to unload any material right into the ground.

www.greenindustrypros.com/21139838

44 GREEN INDUSTRY PROS

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Mulch Mate Truck Mate

A divi

www.greenindustrypros.com/21139822

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(

www.greenindustrypros.com

9/29/20 2:58 PM

John Deere TC-Series Trenchers

John Deere’s TC-Series Trenchers, TC36 and TC48, are designed for lighter-duty tasks, and are compatible on John Deere skid steers and compact track loaders as well as most competitive models.

• Designed for lower duty-cycle custoemrs • Several configurations to match most soil conditions or trench requirements • Spring-loaded trencher boom reduces system shock • Crumber boom pulls loose soil into trenchers • Auger removes spoils from trenches • Digging chain can be used in toughest conditions • Integrated skid shoe helps stabilization while trenching • Angle indicator provides optimal trenching angle • Low-profile drive system and side-shift • Multiple digging chain options www.greenindustrypros.com/21152862

Tough, Reliable, Rugged

New Owners’ Training Starts in September FOR 2021 FRANCHISEES! The average annual gross revenue produced * by our franchise , , owners is

$1 880 398

Optional Pull-Back Kit

36-Series Snow Pushers for Skid Steers & Tractor Loaders

Safer Lawn Care Since 1987

Plus Mosquito & Tick Control Opportunities 1st Year Revenue Potential: up to $150,000

Serving 100,000+ Customers • 6 Year Avg. Customer Life $74M+ in Gross Revenues • Serving 24 States + D.C.

Key Markets Available in Your Area!

Visit worksaver.com to learn more

(800) 989-5444 | NaturaLawnFranchise.com

0920GIP_30-51_NewProducts.indd 45

Worksaver, Inc., P.O. Box 100, Litchfield, IL 62056-0100 Phone: 217-324-5973 • Fax: 217-324-3356 worksaver.com • E-mail: sales@worksaver.com

Built with Sunshine and Manufactured in the USA

*Based on 36 owners and the 2019 gross revenue report. ©2020. NaturaLawn of America, Inc. A division of NATURLAWN® Services and Products. All rights reserved. Each office independently owned and operated.

www.greenindustrypros.com

• CNC formed 7-gauge moldboard, 5/16” end plates with 4” wide reversible skid shoes of abrasive resistant steel • Adjustable and reversible 1.5” x 8” ultra rubber cutting edge • Models for “universal” skid steer, JD 400/500 and Euro/Global quick attach

❙

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Designed. Engineered. Remarkable Value.

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VALUE TESTIMONIAL

NEW HIGH PERFORMING & COMFORTABLE MACHINES FROM

TAKEUCHI

Takeuchi is known for high-performance machines that are durable, comfortable and easy to service. Two new units — the TL8R2 compact track loader (CTL) and TB225 compact excavator build on that heritage and are ideal for landscaping applications.

TL8R2 Compact Track Loader: The TL8R2 joins the CTL lineup as a radial lift design. It offers greater mid-height reach than its predecessor, the TL8. Plus, it’s ready to take on tough jobs with a turbocharged diesel engine delivering 74.3 horsepower and 192 ft-lb of torque. It has a rated operating capacity of 2,116 pounds and bucket breakout force of 6,204 pounds. Operators will always feel comfortable and in control. The operator’s station features a 5.7-inch multifunction color monitor, 6-way adjustable high-back suspension seat, flat floor with well-placed footrests, and both foot- and hand-throttle control. Full hydraulic pilot controls are low effort and precise.

TB225 Excavator: All Takeuchi excavators are built to handle rugged conditions, and the TB225 is no exception. Equipped with a Yanmar diesel engine producing 19.6 horsepower and 49.7 ft-lb of torque, the TB225 offers a bucket breakout force of 4,339 pounds and maximum digging depth of 8 feet 6 inches. It also offers versatility for exceptional performance in applications with limited access. The boom swings left or right, making it easy to dig offset. The hydraulically retractable undercarriage also goes from 59 inches wide down to 43.3 inches wide to access confined spaces. The operator’s station provides all day comfort with an adjustable suspension seat, large floor with integrated footrests, ergonomically designed pilot controls and adjustable arm rests.

Long-Lasting Performance These units are built to precision specs with top-quality materials. Both machines take efficiency even further with Takeuchi Fleet Management, a telematics system with free access provided during the warranty period.

takeuchi-us.com 46 GREEN INDUSTRY PROS

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* See operator’s manual or dealer for complete warranty details. Refer to engine operator’s manual for engine warranty.

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NEW PRODUCTS

Country Clipper Charger & Boss XL Series Redesigned from the wheels up, the new Country Clipper Charger & Boss XL series are built for the commercial or heavy-duty residential user looking for dependability, functionality, and comfort. Features Include:

• Joystick or Twinstick Steering Controls • Easy Maintenance Stand-Up Deck • ContourDTS Pivoting Front Axle & Deck Suspension • Adjustable suspension seat and arm rests mounted on vibration isolators • Welded one-piece tubular frame • 10 gauge fully welded deck with reinforced spindle stiffener plates & 12-gauge deck reinforcement channel • 52-, 60-, and 72-inch cutting width options • 25.5-, 31-, and 35-hp Kawasaki engine options • Hydro-gear zt-4400 or zt-5400 transmissions • Up to 12.5mph ground speeds • Under-operator mounted fuel tank for enhanced hillside stability

Rotary’s Copperhead Chain Saw Bars and Chain A complete line of professional-grade Copperhead chain saw bars and chain, plus a variety of repair parts and accessories are featured in Rotary’s 2020 master catalog. New items include pro sprocket bars and various multi-part assortments containing carburetors, intake gaskets, filters, standard and metric bolts, bar stud nuts and chain links. Thousands of other superior quality Copperhead chain saw items are available including plain straps and presets plus low profile, semi-chisel and skip tooth chain in cut loops or 25 feet and 100’ reels. Rotary has also introduced a tri-link saw chain featuring titanium-coated full chisel cutters that saw up to 20 percent faster than semi-chisel chain. Other items include chainsaw filters, springs, piston and cylinder assemblies, crankshafts, pole saw bars, repair tools, chain breakers and more. Rotary’s 2020 catalog features a special 120-page section highlighting Copperhead saw bars, along with a chain crossover comparison chart and a new chain scale chart.

www.greenindustrypros.com/21174202

Makita XML09 Cordless Commercial Lawn Mower

www.greenindustrypros.com/21158877

Makita’s 18V X2 (36V) LXT brushless cordless 21-inch self-propelled commercial lawn mower, the XML09 is powered by two 18V LXT Batteries and a Makita-built brushless motor. Features include:

• Option to insert two additional LXT Batteries for extended run time • Battery-selector switch to keep working when first two batteries need a charge • Non-stop cut for up to two miles on four 18V LXT 5.0Ah batteries • Commercial-grade aluminum deck resists corrosion and durable without adding weight • Self-propelled with variable speeds from 1.5 to 3 mph • Mulching, bagging and rear-discharge options for debris • IPX4 weather-resistant construction • Single lever cutting height adjustment of optional cutting heights between 1-1/4 and 4-inches • Durable handles that do not fold for loading on and off trucks www.greenindustrypros.com/21158898

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STIHL MSA 220 C-B Chainsaw With the professional MSA 220 C-B chain saw, just squeeze the trigger and start cutting. Part of the STIHL AP Series, and powered by the STIHL AP 300 S 36 volt battery, this chain saw delivers the speed, cutting performance, and run time to take on just about any cutting job. No pulling on cords, fuel mixing or complicated startup procedures.

• Standard with 14- or 16-inch guide bar, and exclusive 3/8-inch STIHL PICCO saw chain • Fifteen percent greater cutting performance as compared to MSA 200 C-B • Rubberized handle provides a comfortable grip • Toolless oil filler cap makes adding bar and chain oil easy • Toolless chain tensioner simplifies chain tensioning process • 6.4 lbs without battery, 11.2 lbs with battery

Exmark Tractus Airless Drive Tires Exmark’s Tractus airless drive tires are now being offered as standard equipment on select Lazer Z zero-turn mower models. In addition, Tractus is now available as an aftermarket accessory for any 60- or 72-inch gasoline-powered Lazer Z model. Designed to eliminate the flat tires that increase downtime, Tractus features a larger contact patch which provides more consistent ground pressure for reduced turf compaction and marking on concrete surfaces and a better overall quality of cut.

www.greenindustrypros.com/21159429

www.greenindustrypros.com/21174203

Over 40 New Blades for 2020

® ®

World‘s sharpest Blades

Scan to view Blade Video.

Built for Powerful Performance! Visit rotarycorp.com or call 1.800.841.3989 Servicing dealers and distributors only.

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TORO®

TRX WALK-BEHIND TRENCHER LINE The Toro® TRX walk-behind trencher line includes two new models designed for exceptional performance, serviceability, ease of use and operator comfort. The new TRX 250 and TRX 300 feature Intelli-Trench® technology, an innovation that optimizes the machine’s hydraulic flow for the digging conditions. This system automatically diverts the hydraulic flow from the traction motors, providing more power for the trencher head. As a result, the traction handle can be held in one place without requiring constant adjustment, reducing operator fatigue and optimizing performance. The Intelli-Trench feature decreases track wear and maintains engine RPM for efficient engine cooling. The new TRX models also have a new hydraulic design that requires significantly fewer components than previous models. Other features include differentiated traction controls that are easy to learn and use. Operators will find the familiar TRX trencher valve handle and boom lift lever, as well as independent traction control for the left and right track. The boom lift function has also been enhanced with a new hydraulic valve that allows the boom to move up and down smoothly. The TRX 250 has a powerful 24.5 hp Toro engine and offers a maximum forward speed of 2.4 mph (3.9 km/h), while the new TRX 300 has a 26.5 hp Kohler® EFI engine and has a maximum forward speed of 2.3 mph (3.7 km/h). A heavy-duty air cleaner is standard on both engines. Both models are 82.5 inches (209.6 cm) long, 33.8 inches (85.9 cm) wide and 46 inches (116.8 cm) tall, with a ground clearance of 4.3 inches (10.9 cm) and a fuel capacity of 4.0 gallons (18.2 L). In addition to the TRX 250 and TRX 300, the TRX 16 is also available and has a 14.5 hp Kawasaki® engine and a maximum forward speed of 3.1 mph. The TRX walk-behind trenchers are available from Toro’s trusted dealer network.

About Toro With roots dating back to 1914, Toro is a leading worldwide provider of innovative solutions for the outdoor environment including turf and landscape maintenance, snow management, rental and construction equipment, and irrigation solutions. Through a strong network of distributors, dealers, retailers and rental stores in more than 125 countries, Toro helps customers care for golf courses, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties, construction sites and agricultural operations. More at: www.toro.com.

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* See operator’s manual or dealer for complete warranty

details. Refer to engine operator’s manual for engine warranty.

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WHERE STRONGER MEETS SMARTER

POWERFUL TRENCHING JUST GOT SMARTER. For simpler, smoother — and smarter — trenching performance, Toro’s redesigned TRX Walk-Behind Trenchers have it all. The new Intelli-Trench™ feature optimizes hydraulic flow for the soil conditions, delivering higher torque while reducing trenching times. Maneuverability is improved through a track design with a low center of gravity and independent track control. And the hydraulically enhanced boom moves smoothly with no engine sag. Learn more at toro.com/trx. ©2020 The Toro Company. All rights reserved.

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LAWN CARE

By Bryan Ostlund

Fall Overseeding for a THICK, VIBRANT LAWN M

without tearing up the turf, or the soil. It’s an easy way to fill in bare spots, improve the density of turf, establish improved grass varieties and enhance your lawn’s color. In northern areas with cool-season grasses, fall overseeding can help fill in any thin patches and ensure that the new grass develops a strong root system before winter, creating a more disease- and drought-tolerant lawn. A lawn that is already thick in the spring will also crowd out early weeds before they have a chance to become established. In southern areas with warmseason lawns, fall overseeding with a cool-season grass provides an obvious aesthetic benefit, as the lawn will remain ©TeamDaf - stock.adobe.com green through the Before you overseed, mow the lawn very short, almost winter while the warmto the point of scalping it. When the seeds start growing, season grass is dormant. you will want them to have enough access to sunlight, An actively growing and taller grass can block much of it.

any homeowners tend to view fall as the end of the lawn-care season. Mowing may continue, but most outdoor activities are winding down, and the grass naturally receives less attention than in the spring and summer. Fall is the perfect time for landscapers to overseed—a practice that can benefit both cool- and warm-season turf. Overseeding is the planting of grass seed directly into existing turf,

lawn is also more wear-resistant than dormant grass, which may be important to homeowners who use their lawns year-round. For warmseason lawns, you’ll also need to create a spring transition plan, which will vary based on the local conditions as well as the density and health of both the underlying warm-season grass and overseeded cool-season grass. The overseeding process is the same for both types of turf. The following are five tips to get you started:

1. Aerate

Many homeowners are unaware of the benefits of regular aeration— or tend to put it off because renting a core aerator is a hassle. But if the soil is compacted after a summer of heavy use, the lawn may need to be aerated before overseeding. This will help water, nutrients and oxygen penetrate more easily, allowing both the established plants and the new grass you’re about to plant to develop stronger roots and survive the winter in a healthier state.

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You can choose seed that matches the cool season species in your lawn, but you could also introduce a new variety, which would increase your lawn’s tolerance to drought and disease.

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After the seeds have been planted, keep the soil lightly moist by watering briefly and frequently several times a day.

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After you overseed the lawn, it will need to be watered lightly several times a day to keep the soil slightly damp until the seeds germinate. If you are working with a sprinkler system, you may need to help reprogram it for more brief and frequent waterings until the new grass is visible. Homeowners may think overseeding is just for golf courses and sports fields, but it’s a practice that can benefit many kinds of turf. Fall overseeding can help you keep your lawns not only greener but healthier and more resilient — leading to less repair work in the spring.

5. Water consistently

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You’ll want to make sure that the grass seed you choose is appropriate not only for the general growing region but for any unusual site-

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4. Choose the right grass seed

the

Good soil and seed contact is vital to the germination process. After mowing, rake the lawn to remove debris and loosen the top layer of soil to allow better contact with the seed. Another option is to add a 1/8inch layer of topsoil and firm it with a roller, although it’s not necessary.

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3. Prep the soil

specific considerations such as soil quality, amount of sun, drainage, pest issues, level of traffic and so on. For cool-season lawns, you can use the same seed as the existing grass or add a new variety for increased durability. Warm-season lawns will need to be overseeded with a quickgerminating cool-season variety such as perennial ryegrass. Check the seed label and choose a product with a high germination rate and no weed seed. For best results, use certified seed that was tested within the last 12 months.

To ensure that the new grass plants will receive as much sunlight as possible when they start to grow, cut the existing grass extra short, almost to the point of scalping it before overseeding. When the seeds start growing, you will want them to have enough access to sunlight, and taller grass can block much of it.

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VALUE TESTIMONIAL

ADD PROFITABILITY WITH ISUZU

Today’s landscape companies are searching for ways to save time and money. Like a lot of businesses, they’re looking for ways to be more efficient while increasing profits and maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction. Whether they are mowing, cleaning up debris or spraying fertilizers, professional services have to be delivered to their customers’ doorsteps in a professional package. The truck is the first thing customers notice upon arrival, and is one of the many reasons Isuzu trucks are so popular. However, there are also a number of ways that an Isuzu truck saves time, maximizes labor and generates additional revenue. Isuzu Trucks Save Time Ask anyone who has driven an Isuzu truck with its low cab forward design and the first thing they will talk about is its great maneuverability and visibility. The turning radius and visibility is the best in its class. Whether you’re parking or making a tight turn, those time-consuming, three-point turns are less frequent. The maneuverability and visibility not only saves time but also lessens the chance of bumping into unforeseen objects. Isuzu Trucks Maximize Labor First, our quality is among the best in the industry. Isuzu trucks are known for maximizing the uptime of our drivers; keeping them on the job and out of the repair shop. One breakdown can cost a business a minimum of two to three hours of a crew’s time and missed appointments. Secondly, our trucks are more capable than traditional trucks. Whether you are hauling equipment or trees to the job site, our payload and body designs maximize the truck’s capability. This keeps your crew from making multiple trips and pulling trailers that are an added expense. Isuzu Trucks Generate Revenue And Add To Profitability A professional appearance enhances your brand and loyalty among your customers while attracting new ones. Isuzu trucks are known for their professional appearance and with a customized body, show they are built strictly for use by professionals. Isuzu trucks are also well known for their low cost of ownership and residual value. Great fuel efficiency, superb quality, a robust warranty, a Preventative Service Maintenance Plan and special financing keep operating expenses low and fixed. Knowing your monthly costs allows you to plan accordingly and save over the long term. Visit an authorized Isuzu dealership and learn how an Isuzu truck can save your business money.

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TIME IS RUNNING OUT TO CHOOSE ONE OF THESE TWO PROGRAMS

1 T ON S E R E T IN O N D ENTS AN AYS M D Y 0 A 9 P R D O E F R S R K E C F DE IESEL TRU D S IE R E S N & LL NEW FTR

APR RATES AS LOW AS

0.00%

ON ALL NEW N-SERIES DIESEL TRUCKS

Programs Expire December 31, 2020 Vehicles shown with optional equipment; some equipment is dealer installed. Offers are only available through Isuzu Finance of America, Inc. (IFAI). For Program 1: No interest or monthly payments to IFAI for 90 days from date of sale. First 90 days of interest to be paid by Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. Deferred first three monthly principal amounts paid over remaining term. For Programs 1 & 2: Finance terms are limited, credit approval required. Participating dealers only. Please see your authorized Isuzu dealer for details. Â© 2020 ISUZU COMMERCIAL TRUCK OF AMERICA, INC.

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BEYOND THE BLADE

by Pam Haskell

How to Use the Advanced Features of

GOOGLE MY BUSINESS

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n the first part of this two–part series, we covered just how important Google My Business is in promoting your green industry business online, along with a few ways you can optimize and improve your Google My Business profile. There’s so much more GMB offers businesses than a free profile. Google My Business is slowly becoming its own version of the Yellow Pages, the big difference is, you get control of what your clients see 24/7. This second part of our Google My Business guide is going to provide insight into the advanced features of the platform that can help you further highlight and promote your business.

Google My Business App

Once you’ve gone through the process of optimizing your profile, you’ll probably want to download the GMB app onto your phone. It gives you instant access to your profile, your stats, and your potential new clients. In the landscaping industry, the GMB mobile app is ideal, just finished an amazing job, take a photo, and upload it to your GMB profile. Not only will it help promote your profile on Google results, but it also shows prospective clients that you’re active,

you’re working, and you do beautiful work. As with many apps, GMB does have notifications. You can turn off all but the most important features so you can stay m .co be focused on running do .a k oc - st izn the rest of the business. nn e ©d Through the app, you have full access to everything you would on your desktop including the advanced features discussed below. Get the most out of Google Posts Google Posts is just like writing a blog on your website—they can even be up to 1,500 words (that’s huge potential for a persuasive ad!). The big difference is, they expire after seven days (or if they’re promoting an event with a specific date, after that date has passed). Most businesses use Google Posts to promote three things: • New events • Special offers • Specific announcements A quick word to the wise: only 15–20 words of your post will show up in the search results so make those first couple of lines catch the attention of your audience. Also, you can have up to 10 Google Posts active at once and you should always include an eye– catching image with each of them.

GMB Messaging

This feature allows your users to message you in real time. GMB Messaging is completely optional and is

Using Google My Business Q&A

Often overlooked by many businesses, GMB Questions is a fantastic way to engage directly with people searching for your services.

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The Q&A section lets Google users submit questions about a company, and questions can include absolutely anything and everything about your business. It’s best to monitor this section closely and answer questions as soon as possible, which is one reason to have the GMB app. Just as anyone can ask a question, anyone can respond with an answer so make sure you’re answering with the right solution before someone gives that potential client incorrect information about the services you provide. A great way to prevent the same questions getting asked repeatedly is creating an FAQ section. Not only will it help you avoid answering the same questions repeatedly, but it also shows you’re proactive in helping solve clients’ problems for them. If you’re worried about people posting spam, inappropriate, or off–topic questions to your profile, you can report these to Google, who will remove them for you. The best way to keep your profile free from spam is by maintaining it regularly.

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something you need to think about enabling. If you already have a Facebook business page set up, it’s pretty much the same as their messaging system. If you have the staff or time/availability to do it yourself to respond immediately to any inquiries, then using the messaging feature is a great addition to your GMB. Two–way messaging can improve your customer experience drastically. If you’re not going to be able to answer messages within a few hours of receiving them, then this probably isn’t a feature you want to activate.

Reserve with Google

If you have an online booking system on your website, you can integrate it onto your GMB profile. Reserve with Google is compatible with a selection of the most popular booking engines, so see if yours is on the list. The best benefit of the booking feature is that it allows your customers to convert directly, while still in the search results, ultimately making it easier for you to get customers to book online.

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For local businesses, it’s no longer enough to simply rank in the SERPs. Your presence on the search results must stand out so you can attract new customers to your website. Reviews play an essential role in helping your business stand out from your competition, and they can seriously impact your rankings too. How do reviews impact your business? • If you have multiple five–star reviews on your GMB you stand out as trustworthy, reliable, and the best at what they’re looking for. • Google favors thosewith good reviews. • Good reviews will bring more business to your company, negative reviews provide valuable feedback that can help you improve your business. You can always ask your customers directly to leave reviews on your website but using a review platform can be useful. It can help you to increase the number of reviews you get, while also automating the asking process. There are so many options when it comes to review platforms, such as those that make the job of asking for feedback and sharing as a testimonial on other services and your website easy. Some review platforms will send customers an email or text message to ask for a review or feedback. You can target your GMB listing with review platforms so that all your reviews are left on the same platform and help promote your

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

business on the search engines. Responding to reviews is just as important as getting them. Whether they’re positive or negative reviews, it’s necessary to respond to them to keep your audience happy. If you respond to all your reviews, both negative and positive, and are helpful and polite to all your reviewers, potential clients will feel a lot more comfortable doing business with you.

Insights & Stats

Once you’ve optimized your profile, keeping it up to date regularly, and implemented the advanced features that work best for your business, it’s time to look at your stats. No, don’t skip over this bit , it’s not boring like high school math. Under your ‘Insights’ tab, you’ll get all the facts and figures you need about your profile’s performance to tweak it to attract more clients. In this section, you’ll see a wide range of important info, including: • Where your profile’s visitors were located • What keywords they used to find you • What their next steps were (did they visit your website, call you, or click away?) The number of visitors your profile got compared to previous time frames. With that info under your belt, you’ll be able to figure out who’s looking for your help—and how to attract more of them. By embracing these advanced features GMB offers, you stand a better chance at outperforming your competitors and attracting more customers to your business.

Pam Haskell owner of the website design & development company Chili Pepper Design (cpdesignco.com). She helps businesses in the landscaping and outdoor living space create and maintain a modern web presence along with online marketing and reputation management services. Visit www. cpdesignco.com for more information.

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VALUE TESTIMONIAL

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DEALER SUCCESS GUIDE

by Michael Paladino

PUTTING DOWN ROOTS

som to on int off • P H e o b h t m •P – h g b li s t e

Valuing & Grooming Your Customers to Deepen Brand Loyalty

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As noted, the first step in cultivating your customers is figuring out who should get the most attention. Some customers may be dying but may be so small that they’re not worth the investment to save. Others may be critical to your business but are generally healthy and cruising along. We want to instead focus on the sweet spot, where a customer’s potential for loyalty-building presents a hefty enough ROI. You can whittle down your customer list by looking at three broad measurements: (i) Your current sales to your customers; (ii) your customers’ sales to their customers, which reflects potential buying power (even if those sales = $0, as is the case with homeowners); and (iii) the whitespace between current and potential customer depth. i. By your Sales: How big are the roots currently? Savvy salespeople likely know that the 80-20 rule is king—that is, the Pareto Principle, which states that 80 percent of outputs result from 20 percent of inputs. This provides

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Step 1: Do Your Homework

a general rule of thumb whereby 80 percent of a company’s sales will come from 20 percent of its customers. When considering which customers should get the most individualized attention for loyalty-building, those golden 20 percent are a good place to start. To figure out who they are, you’ll need to do a bit of analysis and datawrangling. Work with your IT or accounting staff to get a clean list of unique customers, along with a historical database of purchase records. From there, you’ll want to calculate net sales, as well as percenttotal figures, by item, revenue, and margin for each customer. If you really want to get into things, try coming up with

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This active and efficient cultivation can be approached in a two-step process: First, to value customers according to importance and growth potential; and second, to dedicate the resources at your disposal towards Key Account Strategy—that is, targeted sales and relationshipbuilding initiatives for high-value customers. Below, we’ll explore each step, in greater detail, offering best practices and approaches to get you on your way to greener pastures.

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reviously in my “Grass Gets Greener” article series, I’ve compared an equipment dealership’s customer base to a field of crops: Each customer is a plant, which must be nurtured in order for the farmer (the dealership) to reap a harvest (revenue). The bigger and healthier the field, the better the yield. Thus far, we’ve focused in detail on the “bigger” part of that equation: Getting a sense of your customer breadth, with an eye towards expansion as well as customer variation, is crucial for the long-term viability of your field. Once wrapping your fingers around the scope of your customer base, it then becomes time to assess its vitality: Is your field big, yet vulnerable? Small, yet lush? Are some parts of the field growing faster than others? This line of thought brings us to customer depth—a call to action to cultivate your customers to deepen and strengthen brand loyalty. The goal here is for your customers to put down roots into your business, to keep coming back for more purchases, across more product types, more frequently. Of course, it’d be a dream to get a thriving crop simply with a little sun and irrigation. Alas, modern customers need tending, and not all are created equal: while some may be behemoth landscaping companies with plenty of space to grow, others may be homeowners or single-crew operations that may only ever grow so big, no matter how much fertilizer you put down. Equipment dealers therefore need to cultivate actively and constantly, but also efficiently, to ensure that your sales and marketing investments translate to as much loyalty-deepening as possible.

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some creative additional metrics to differentiate customers based on how deep they’ve already dove into your brand and product offerings. Some examples include: • Purchase Frequency & Recency – Having lots of sales is great, but it’s even better if those sales are spread out over many transactions, and better still if the last transaction happened this season. Otherwise, they may have simply stocked up and moved on. • Product Categories / Customers – Lots of sales across many (and hopefully recent) transactions is great, but even better if they’re buying across your whole product line. Landscapers, for instance, should ideally be buying your trimmers, edgers, blowers, and other equipment types for their full crew. If a seemingly good customer only buys one product type, that may signal that they simply like a product-

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specific promotion, and they may drop off if you change your discount policy. • Non-sales Engagements – Do your customers ©cacaroot - stock.adobe.com sign up for your newsletter? Attend promo days? Do they usually answer your ©cacaroot - stock.adobe.com calls? Tracking these many product categories, with high touchpoints can be very important as sales volume and good frequency & a last step of differentiation between recency. two very similar-looking customers: Importantly, once you determine Better to start with those who already your personas and their saturation seem interested. states, assign each customer to a ii. By their Sales: How big could the persona as best you can. You may roots get? be able to cross-reference publicly You now know roughly how available data like the Census, or rely important each customer is to your on good old-fashioned web searches organization’s sales at current. Now, to determine who fits where. As your how big could those sales be? resources permit, it’s also a good idea to To figure this out, you’ll have to do deep-dives on stand out customers, make some educated guesses. Based beyond general personas. For the on your knowledge of your specific white whale corporate contractor market, come up with what a fully mentioned above, you might want saturated customer could look like, to try to find out roughly how many according to a few major customer trucks and crews they operate, what personas. Some examples include: their annual revenue might look like, • Homeowner Retirees – No crews and the scope of their customer base. to support but may have disposable income. Saturation might involve iii. By the Whitespace: How big is the equipment purchases once every year gap between potential depth and actual or two, with occasional accessories. depth? Finally, we compare the actual • Government Customers (Municipal, County, State) – Crews to support, from the potential: How far is each but wrapped up in public budgeting. customer from their persona-specific Saturation would involve many saturation state? Try to quantify product categories and large item, this gap as best you can so that your revenue, and margin volume, but team can understand the customers relatively infrequent equipment that present the best opportunities purchases based around fiscal years for individualized attention. and budgeting capabilities. For instance, maybe a mid-size contractor is accounting for low • Large Corporate Landscaping Contractors – These would be white revenue currently but has good whales: Imagine a large, multi-crew purchasing patterns and room to grow operation that services apartment across a few crews. Or, perhaps your buildings, office complexes, or second-largest account is humming theme parks. They should buy across along according to sales, but frequency

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DEALER SUCCESS GUIDE

and recency of trimmer transactions has waned, indicating that your competitor could have scooped you with a sale.

Step 2: Put Research to Action

So, you’ve done your homework, and you’ve identified the top existing customers that could use some attention from your sales team this week. Now it’s time to act, through Key Account Strategy. Essentially, this means doing deepdives into the high-value customers on your list and reaching out to them in a targeted manner to address gaps. You can do so through (i) targeted sales engagements, or (ii) targeted non-sales engagements i. Targeted Sales Engagements The most obvious gaps will be sales gaps: Has volume dipped? Have they never bought a certain product category from you? Whatever the gap is, you’ll want to reach out to see if you can fill it, whether by simply providing targeted product information via email, or giving them a special deal. Some example approaches are: • Cross-sell – Try selling high-value customers on a product or service that they’ve never bought from you – or at the least, one they haven’t bought in a while. • Targeted bundles – This can be a great way to get your foot in the door with high-whitespace customers

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who’ve bought few product categories from you. Maybe convince that new contractor who’s bought three trimmers com e. ob k.ad y - stoc ©Tier ne to try out a mower-edger-chainsaw bundle to round out one of his crews. If it works out, after a month or two, you could circle back about more crew-size bundles. • Parts & Service – Keep track of parts sales and maintenance services in your purchase record database and reach out to customers with low service frequency / recency relative to the products they’ve purchased. Sometimes a simple reminder is all they need to come in for a blade or belt replacement. ii. Targeted Non-Sales Engagements Salespeople don’t just sell products: they sell brands, and they sell relationships. If important customers aren’t able to spend more money with you just yet, it’s worth checking in to see if they’ll spend some time. They’ll remember that you invested in them even without an immediate financial incentive, and hopefully perceive you as a partner with whom they’ll eventually want to do business. Of course, if the whitespace is engagement itself—perhaps you haven’t heard from a key contact in a while, even if his crew comes in regularly – it’s all the more prudent to

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

reach out. Some approaches include: • Check ins – A simple email or phone call to touch base goes a long way. Look through your notes on key contacts to ask about updates in their personal or professional lives. • Helpful Content (Inbound) – You can still help your customers without selling them something. Create some basic inbound marketing content (such as a newsletter) to build out your brand beyond transactions. Perhaps being your customer means being part of a lifestyle, a community of DIY folks who love the outdoors. Or, maybe you position yourself as a lawn & garden business guru, providing tips on contracting and invoicing for jobs, managing logistical issues in dispatching crews, or servicing equipment in a pinch. • Events – Transforming your showroom into a gathering place does a lot to foster community and loyalty. Some ideas include a kid-themed event or a live competition with team members.

Now, let’s review:

We’ve identified the customers most deserving of our attention by valuing their current and potential worth to our business, and taken targeted action to fill the gaps by selling products, promotions, and our brand itself. When rinsed and repeated, week in and week out, this process of valuing and grooming your customers can have tremendous effects on brand loyalty and, ultimately, the vitality of your business. By helping the right customers put down roots where there’s room to grow, you’ll have a healthy harvest in no time.

Michael Paladino is a strategist at Black Ink Technologies, a

provider of SaaS customer analytics solutions. He and Black Ink are based in Boston, MA. For more information, please visit blackinktech.comand connect @BlackInk_Tech on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

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ut me

s y

oes y.

VALUE TESTIMONIAL

WORLD’S LARGEST SUPPLIER OF OUTDOOR

POWER EQUIPMENT PARTS The industry’s most complete line of outdoor power equipment replacement parts is available from Rotary. From service jobs and minor repairs to complete engine overhauls, Rotary has the parts it takes to get the job done. Choose from guaranteed quality Copperhead Mower Blades, air filters, pre-filters, oil filters, belts, tires, starters, spark plugs and internal engine parts.

Plus piston and spindle assemblies, carburetors, ignition kits, batteries, throttle controls, brake and clutch cables, idler pulleys, tune-up kits, wheel and deck accessories and much more! Backed by an exclusive parts warranty that ensures quality and performance, Rotary offers over 9,500 different outdoor power equipment parts for lawn mowers, trimmers, chain saws, brush cutters, pressure washers, snow blowers, garden tillers and more.

Rotary’s Copperhead Mower Blades – Made in the USA with American Steel Rotary manufactures approximately 12 million mower and edger blades annually including heavy duty blades, professional grade mulching blades, flat blades, high and low-lift blades plus edger and de-thatcher blades. Copperhead Mower Blades by Rotary are engineered to perform better, last longer and cut with powerful force. Available for most any brand, Copperhead Blades meet all OEM standards for operation and feature: • Premium-grade American steel, heated treated and tempered for uniform hardness. • Precision formed, balanced and sharpened to ensure a cleaner, finer cut with less vibration. • Superior cutting efficiency and extended blade life. • ISO compliance for quality and superior craftsmanship. Earlier this year, Rotary reached a milestone with the production of its 250 millionth blade at the company’s manufacturing facility in Georgia. Rotary’s huge assortment of blades is featured in a special section of its 2020 parts catalog which is free for servicing dealers.

Filters engineered for maximum protection and performance Rotary offers all types of commercial-strength air, fuel and oil filters for mowers - professionally designed to protect engines under extreme operating conditions while ensuring maximum efficiency and peak performance. Made in the USA, Rotary filters improve airflow, horsepower and overall engine performance. Oil filters feature a special blend of fibers and resin that create a filter media with exceptional dirt-trapping capacity for maximum protection. Rotary carries a complete line of premium quality filters for small engines, trimmers, chain saws, ATVs and golf carts. A special section of the company’s 2020 catalog features the industry’s widest selection of air filters and pre-filters plus fuel, oil and transmission filters. Rotary manufactures a full line of pleated paper filters and foam air filters at its Georgia manufacturing facility.

Copperhead Trimmer Line Nothing cuts like Copperhead Vortex Trimmer Line from Rotary. The choice of landscape pros, vortex line features a twisted aerodynamic design that produces more cutting power at impact – with less drag and reduced vibration. This best-seller has superior tensile strength, excellent wear resistance and requires less operating power. Copperhead Trimmer line is made in the USA at Rotary’s manufacturing facilities in Arizona and Georgia. For more info, log on to rotarycorp.com or call 1.800.841.3989.

Available through servicing dealers and distributors.

rotarycorp.com www.greenindustrypros.com

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INDUSTRY DIRT

CUB CADET Announces Expansion of PRO SERIES OFFERINGS

Cub Cadet

ub Cadet announced updates to and new offerings in its PRO Series commercial lineup. From an addition to the PRO X series of stand-on mowers to a bagger that lives up to its promises and expanded EFI engine options, the list of Cub Cadet professional offerings continues to grow. The PRO X 636 is the latest addition to the PRO X series line of stand-on mowers. The versatile deck size allows landscapers to be nimble in small spaces like gated properties and maneuvering around obstacles.

“We spent more than two years designing our PRO X series, each version of the unit tweaked and updated based on direct feedback from professionals in the field,” said Aaron Griffith, national sales manager for Cub Cadet. “We designed the PRO X 636 to include some of the best features from our stand-on mowers but we changed up the configurations to fit everything in a smaller package.” The PRO X 636 will be available in early 2021. The PRO PCS 1900 bagger was designed to be a powerful attachment that provides optimal performance. The bagger features a 19-inch-wide impeller housing, along with tool-free conversion from bagging to side discharge for quick convenience. Some of the most unique features of

the bagger include optimized tube geometry designed to keep the CMFs high and move grass through the tube to prevent plugging. A rubber seal was added where the tube mounts into the bagger, which prevents blowout, especially during dry conditions.. Cub Cadet electronic fuel-injected (EFI) engines set new standards in strength and power. EFI provides reliable starting, fuel efficiency when you need it most. The PRO X 654, PRO X 660, PRO Z 960 L, PRO Z 972 L and PRO Z 972 SDL will be available with EFI engines in 2021 with PRO Z in March. The Kawasaki EFI is an advanced, electronically controlled open-loop system that uses real-time feedback to sense usage conditions and instantly control combustion to give you optimal power output and fuel efficiency.

over 9,500 parts for outdoor power equipment.

America's #1 Supplier

StoneHook CORDLESS VACUUM LIFTER  Runs all day on a charge  Standard pad 1400 pound capacity; pads available from 88 to 2200 pounds. Windy Ridge Corporation Tamworth, NH 603-323-2323 www.stonehook.com

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www.greenindustrypros.com

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EXMARK CELEBRATING LAZER Z 25TH ANNIVERSARY WITH NEW MODELS IN 2021

xmark is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its Lazer Z commercial zero-turn riding mower. What started as one series in 1995 has grown to include four series, and numerous models for 2021, each available in a range of cut widths, fuel options and configurations. Exmark continues to innovate based on customer feedback. Some of these innovations for 2021 include the updated 96-inch Lazer Z Diesel and the exclusive Exmark Tractus airless drive tires. On the turf care side, the Z Turf Equipment lineup expands considerably for 2021, with new stand-on aerator and slicer seeder models. The mid-size Z-Aerate 30 (30-inch aeration width) and compact Z-Aerate 24 (24-inch aeration width) models feature

BRINE/DE-ICER 200 or 300 g gal

BRINE/DE-ICER

500, 750, or 1000 gal

1300 gal

SKID UNIT

DUAL SKID UNIT

TREE SERVICE

30, 50, 100, 150, 200, or 300 g gal

Tank size options

NURSE TRAILERS

TRAILERS

1005, 1065, or 1300 gal

30, 55, 85, 100, 200, or 300 gal

THREE POINT

THREE POINT MISTER

55, 110, 200, 300, or 400 gal

PEST CONTROL

40, 60, or 100 g gal

SPACE SAVER

a free-floating center tine design that enables aeration around trees and flowerbeds. Up to 1,200 pounds of adjustable down pressure enables the machines to pull plugs up to five inches deep. Intuitive controls are similar to a zero-turn mower, making the Z-Aerate machines easy to operate. The dual-drive design powers both wheels for zero-turn maneuverability and unmatched traction on any turf. An available seeder attachment empowers one operator to simultaneously aerate and overseed properties for maximum productivity and profitExmark Lazer ability. The Z-Seed slicer seeder, with a 40-pound hopper, is a durable, easy to use machine that performs three jobs with every pass – verticutting, dethatching and overseeding. Hydrostatic drive and powered reverse make it easy to operate.

UTV

50, 68, or 110 gal

ULTRA LOW PROFILE 50, 68, or 110 gal

VIEW-SAVER VIEW SAVER

www.greenindustrypros.com

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GREEN INDUSTRY PROS 65

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INDUSTRY DIRT

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation

ADVERTISERS INDEX

(Requester Publications Only)

1. Publication Title

Billy Goat Industries, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Bobcat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Bravo Trailers, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

2. Publication Number

3. Filing Date

Green Industry Pros

003-763

September 15, 2020

4. Issue Frequency

5. Number of Issues Published Annually

6. Annual Subscription Price

Jan/Feb, March, April, May/Jun, Jul/Aug, Sep/Oct, Nov/Dec

Free to Qualified Subscribers

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Street, City, County, State, and Zip+4)

Contact Person

AC Business Media 201 N. Main Street Fort Atkinson, WI 53538-1807

Telephone

Angela Franks

(920) 542-1259

8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher

AC Business Media, 201 N. Main Street, 5th Floor, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538-1807 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor

Briggs & Stratton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23 Contree Sprayer & Equipment Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Publisher (Name and Complete Mailing Address)

Eric Servais 201 N. Main Street, 5th Floor Fort Atkinson, WI 53538-1807 Editor (Name and Complete Mailing Address)

Ryan Whisner 201 N. Main Street, 5th Floor Fort Atkinson, WI 53538-1807 Managing Editor (Name and Complete Mailing Address)

E-Z Trench . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Edgit Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

10. Owner (Do not leave blank. If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock . If not owned by a corporation, give the names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of each individual owner. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.)

Exmark Mfg. Co. Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-29

Full Name

Complete Mailing Address

ACBM, LLC, Barry Lovette, CEO

201 N. Main Street, 5th Floor, Fort Atkinson WI 53538-1807

11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent

Ford Motor Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

or more of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages or Other Securities. If none, check here.  None Full Name

Complete Mailing Address

GEICO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 The Grasshopper Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 59 12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates) . (Check One)

Husqvarna Turf Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income  Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months

tax purposes:

 Has Changed During Preceding 12 Months

PS Form 3526-R Facsimile

Isuzu Truck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54-55 John Deere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34-35

13. Publication Title

14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below

Green Industry Pros

Jul/Aug 2020

15. Extent and Nature of Circulation

Average No. Copies

a. Total Number of Copies (net press run)

JRCO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Outside County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on

Leaf Burrito . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date

61239

61754

41354

40633

(1) PS Form 3541. (Include direct written request from recipient, telemarketing and b. Legitimate

Lawnbot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

No. Copies of Single

Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months

Internet requests from recipient, paid subscriptions including nominal rate subscriptions,

Paid and/or Requested

employer requests, advertiser's proof copies, and exchange copies.)

(2) In-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS

Distribution

Form 3451. (Include direct written request from recipient, telemarketing and internet

(By Mail

requests from recipient, paid subscriptions including nominal rate subscriptions,

and Outside the Mail)

employer requests, advertiser's proof copies, and exchange copies.)

(3) Sales Through Dealers & Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid or Requested distribution Outside USPS.

41355

40634

19063

19777

(4) Requested Copies Distributed by Other Mail Classes Through the USPS. (e.g. first-Class Mail)

Miner Elastomer Products Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation

Naturalawn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

d. Nonrequested

Bulk Sales and Requests including Association Requests, Names obtained from

Distribution

Business directories, Lists, and other sources.)

[Sum of 15b(1), (2), (3), (4)] (1) Outside County Nonrequested Copies stated on PS form 3541. (Include Sample copies, Requests Over 3 years old, Requests induced by a Premium,

(By Mail

Performance Advantage Co Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38-39

(2) In-County Nonrequested Copies stated on PS form 3541.

and Outside

(Include Sample copies, Requests Over 3 years old, Requests induced by a Premium,

the Mail)

Bulk Sales and Requests including Association Requests, Names obtained from Business Directories, Lists, and other sources.)

(3) Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by

SiBore Drill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

e. Total Nonrequested Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), and (3))

19149

19785

f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and e)

60504

60419

Stihl Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5, 43

g. Copies Not Distributed

735

1335

h. Total (Sum of 15f and g)

61239

61754

Synchrony Financial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation

68.4%

67.3%

Rotary Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49, 63, 64, 67

Other Classes of Mail.(e.g. First-Class Mail, Nonrequestor Copies mailed in excess of 10% Limit mailed at Standard Mail or Package Services Rates)

(4) Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail (Include Pickup Stands, Trade Shows, Showrooms, & other sources)

(15c / 15f x 100)

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation

Takeuchi Manufacturing Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-47 The Toro Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13, 50-51 Vanair Manufacturing Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

(Only for Requester and General Category Periodicals Publications) Average Number Copies

Number of Copies of Single

16. Electronic Copy Circulation

Each Issue During

Issue Published

If you are using PS Form 3526-R and claiming electronic copies complete below:

Previous 12 Months

Nearest to Filing Date

3,657

3,052

b. Total Requested and Paid Print Copies (Line 15C) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies

45,011

43,686

c. Total Copy Distribution (Line 15F) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies

64,161

63,471

a. Requested and Paid Electronic Copies

d. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Both Print & Electronic Copies)

70.2%

68.8%

x I certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (Electronic & Print) are legitimate requests. 17. Publication of Statement of Ownership for a Requester Publication is required and will be printed

Windy Ridge Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Woodland Power Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Worksaver Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

66 GREEN INDUSTRY PROS

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in the September/October issue of this publication. 18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner

Date

Barry Lovette, CEO

9/15/2020

I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

PS Form 3526 -R Facsimile

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9/16/20 1:08 PM

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"nothing cuts like Copperhead." steve mendez Professional Landscaper St. Simons Island, GA

the choice of

landscape pros.

® vortex trimmer line • more impact power • less drag • decreased vibration • superior tensile strength • longer wear

Twisted, Aerodynamic Design. v o r t e x t r i m m e r l i n e i s ava i l a b l e at r o ta ry d e a l e r s n at i o n w i d e . ©2020 Rotary Corporation. Rotary is a registered trademark of Rotary Corporation. Available through servicing dealers & distributors.

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B O B C A T. C O M / R 2 S E R I E S E X C A V A T O R S

Compact excavators provide essential performance for landscaping success, and R2-Series machines from Bobcat revolutionize your work with improved precision, over-the-side performance and versatility. See them now at your Bobcat dealer. Bobcat is a Doosan company. Doosan is a global leader in construction equipment, power and water solutions, engines, and engineering, proudly serving customers and communities for more than a century. Bobcat ÂŽ, the Bobcat logo and the colors of the Bobcat machine are registered trademarks of Bobcat Company in the United States and various other countries. ÂŠ2020 Bobcat Company. All rights reserved. | 1432

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