I Honda to Exit U.S. Lawn Mower Market, Continue EU Production

As our team is putting together our best lawn mower recommendations for the year, it’s with a hint of sadness as Honda is exiting the gas lawn mower market. There hasn’t been a time we haven’t recommended Honda lawn mowers and its commercial HRC series has been our top selection for self-propelled models for the past several years. While we’re genuinely disappointed to see them go, it’s not completely over, though.

WHEN IS HONDA EXITING THE GAS LAWN MOWER MARKET?

Back in October 2022, Honda sent out a notice through its dealer network that it would cease manufacturing gas lawn mowers beginning in September 2023. It plans to continue selling the units through 2024 until they are gone.

WHY IS HONDA EXITING THE GAS LAWN MOWER MARKET?

Like many manufacturers, the pandemic certainly took its toll on Honda’s ability to keep production rolling. Disruption in parts supply forced Honda to temporarily halt production in March 2020 at its highest-volume plants in Swepsonville, North Carolina.

That was two and a half years before this announcement, though. While there are still supply issues across many industries, outdoor power equipment is in a different state than many products. The accelerating growth of battery-powered lawn care equipment for both homeowners and professionals is most certainly part of the conversation. That shift in what consumers want and Honda’s ability to maintain profitability in this sector are contributors as well. 