After a successful inaugural year, the industry’s biggest trade show and now the 16th largest trade show in North America, returns Thursday through Saturday, October 23-25 in Louisville, Kentucky.
GIE+EXPO (The Green Industry and Equipment Expo) will attract industry members worldwide who want to stay on the cutting edge of the newest products and latest industry trends.
Here are some of the can’t-miss features you should make a point to see to make the most of your GIE+EXPO experience.
- New Products Live! is a new-product showcase that will be a great starting point for your GIE+EXPO experience.
- Check out the 650 exhibitors showcasing their latest innovations in one 425,700-square-foot exhibit hall.
- A 19-acre outdoor demonstration area with another 170-plus exhibits – open all three days – is a shopper’s playground. Visitors can test new products and shop for items that will make them more productive and profitable in 2009.
- Sit in on the special introduction to PLANET’s Green Industry Conference with the GIE Workshops, only $50 per session. PLANET’s GIC and PGMS’ School of Grounds Management – a comprehensive lineup of educational sessions for green industry professionals – offer powerful educational sessions and extensive peer networking.
- Two free concerts at Louisville’s entertainment district – 4th Street Live! – will feature chart-topping entertainers. See Briggs Bluesbusters, Candy Coburn, .38 Special and Lonestar.
- Giveaways abound, including $20,000 toward the purchase of a new truck in the Trucks of the Industry Giveaway. You can also enter for your chance to win $50,000 in landscaping products through the Total Landscape Care Dream Package giveaway.
- Learn from the experts during brief, hands-on presentations in the Exhibit Hall Learning Center – new to GIE+EXPO this year.
- Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows will present the Stihl Lumberjack Challenge daily in the outdoor demonstration area. Featured events will include axe throwing, chopping, log rolling, cross cut sawing, hot sawing and chain saw carving.
- Kohler’s Free Brat Fry is a popular feature that makes a trip to the outdoor demo area even more fun. It will be held Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Pack your running shoes and lace up for Ferris Industries’ Run with the Winners 5K fun run on Saturday, October 25 at 7:30 a.m.
The event is sponsored by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) and the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS). GIE+EXPO hours for indoor exhibits will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on October 23 and October 24, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on October 25. Outdoor demonstrations will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on October 23 and October 24, and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on October 25.
Mow more acres per hour with Xcaliber
Dixie Chopper’s Xcaliber series features models with 74-inch cutting decks. Models have ground speeds between 12 and 15 miles per hour and are equipped with 14-gallon fuel capacity. The Xcaliber includes springer forks and electric deck lift. A 12-volt adapter comes standard so you can mow while talking on your cell phone or listening to your iPod.
Dixie Chopper
Indoor Booth #7214 Outdoor Booth #7512D
(765) 246-7737
www.dixiechopper.com
Snow and ice scraping technology
Arctic’s Sectional snow plow for wheel loaders and skid steers features steel trip edges that scrape down to the pavement and trips over obstacles nine inches tall. Its mechanical side panels move up and down on impact, clearing hidden objects beneath the snow.
Arctic Snow and Ice
Booth #9188
(888) 2-ICE-SNOW
www.sectionalplow.com
Heavy-duty mower performance
Husqvarna’s Mega Series zero-turn mowers offer professional features for landscapers who mow two or more acres on a regular basis. High performance and quick ground speeds are delivered with the combination of high-powered Kohler Courage Pro engines and independent pump and wheel motors. Decks as wide as 72 inches, oversize tires in the front (13 inches) and rear (23 inches) creates improved stability.
Husqvarna
Indoor Booth #9094
Outdoor Booth # 7800D
www.usa.husqvarna.com
New Optimax blower from Little Wonder
Little Wonder has expanded their Optimax commercial walk-behind blower line with the 9-horsepower Subaru engine model. The Subaru EX27 is part of the first air-cooled engine line to use advanced chain-driven overhead cam technology to provide maximum efficiency, single pull starting, performance and power with minimal noise and emissions.
Little Wonder Booth #4050
(877) 596-6337
www.littlewonder.com
Hardscape lighting provides soft glow
Paver Brights create inviting, evening outdoor living spaces with an elegant glow of soft lighting. Ambiance and Gems lines are LED, architectural quality hardscape lighting. Suitable for commercial and residential applications, the lights can accent walkways, entrances, parking spaces and borders.
Pave Tech
Booth #8010
(800) 728-3832
www.pavetech.com
Boxer ads diesel mini-skid to line
Compact Power increases their Boxer product line with the diesel-powered 322D mini-skid. The new machine accepts all of the same standard attachments as the larger models, but is targeted at landscapers. The 322D is a tracked machine that produces only 3.3 psi of ground pressure, minimizing damage to existing lawns. At 34.5 inches wide, it’s easy to get in and out of tight spaces.
Compact Power
Indoor Booth #7194
Outdoor Booth #7552D
(800) 476-9673
www.cpiequipment.com
Ferris touts propane-powered mower
The IS3100ZP propane-powered commercial mower from Ferris offers a lower polluting mowing option that is better for the environment and typically saves money in fuel costs. The 61- and 72-inch cutting width models are both powered by an 895cc Briggs & Stratton Vanguard Big Block V-Twin engine. The mower is certified to meet the proposed 2012 emission standards.
Ferris Industries
Booth #5054
(800) 933-6175
www.ferrisindustries.com
Venture unveils contour mower
The Ventrac MJ840 contour mower will give your rough areas a finished and manicured look as it is designed to cut uneven ground, green surrounds and similar areas. The front mount, three-deck wing system has four front flat-free tires and three full rear rollers and is capable of 40 degrees motion. Cutting width is 84 inches and cutting height is 3/4 to 31/2 inches with 12 cutting positions.
Venture Products
Indoor Booth #8082
Outdoor Booth #7730D
(866) 836-8722
www.ventrac.com
Stump bucket great for nursery and trenching applications
GE Attachments introduces Blue Diamonds’ Extreme Stump Bucket for skid steers. The bucket, made of 1/2-inch steel, is 56 inches long. It has three replaceable pin-on cast teeth to grab aggravating roots. The stump bucket is a good choice for nursery work, leaving smaller holes to backfill. It’s also ideal for trenching.
GE Attachments
(800) 681-5903
www.geattachments.com
Eliminate debris with backpack blower
The newest backpack blower from RedMax, the EBZ3000RH, is lightweight but powerful. Weighing in at 13.4 pounds, the blower is powered by a 30-cc Strato-Charged engine. Designed for light commercial and consumer use, it removes debris with a maximum air speed of 131 miles per hour. The blower also comes equipped with a 36.5-ounce fuel capacity, oversized shoulder straps and contoured back pad.
RedMax/Zenoah America
Indoor Booth #11094
Outdoor Booth #7728D
(800) 291-8251
www.redmax.com
Tennessee company offers mower replacement parts
Flail-Master, a factory-direct company, provides mower replacement parts for commercial mowers, flail mowers and heavy-duty rotary cutters. Trimmer lines, blade sharpeners, mowing chaps and other mowing accessories are also available.
Flail-Master
Booth #5177
(800) 251-4020
www.flailmaster.com
Salt spreader for pickup trucks
With the V-box spreader from Avalanche, landscapers can spread salt effectively without ever leaving their truck’s cab. An in-cab electronic speed control gives users the ability to vary the spreading rate, and a vibrator motor guarantees continuous salt flow. The V-box spreader also features a single material feed auger and all electric power.
Avalanche/Ledex
Booth #11071
(905) 465-4044
www.avalancheplow.com
Bob-Cat unveils new ZTRs
Commercial Grounds Care, manufacturer of Bob-Cat, will unveil two new intermediate models of zero-turn mowers as part of their ProCat line at GIE+EXPO. New models include a 52-inch side discharge deck with a 19-horsepower Kawasaki engine and a 61-inch side discharge deck with a 26-horsepower Briggs & Stratton ELS engine. Both units will offer a ground speed of 8.5 miles per hour.
Bob-Cat
Booth #4054
(866) 469-1242
www.bobcatturf.com
CLIPxe features PDA compatibility
CLIPxe gives you the ability to route, schedule and estimate job costs of your projects and the option to bill through QuickBooks. A main feature is CLIP2Go is designed for Windows Mobile devices and offers mapping capability to track crews and give directions. CLIP2Go is available in English and Spanish.
CLIP Software
Booth #3044
(800) 635-8485
www.clip.com
Low impact mats for turfgrass
The Pedestrian Mat Series, or PED, from SVE Portable Roadway Systems is a 44-inch by 96-inch by 1/2-inch mat used for events where foot traffic is especially heavy. The ground side features a wide-spaced “nub” pattern, while the top side consists of a more closely spaced “nub” pattern for increased traction.
SVE Portable Roadway Systems
Booth #985
(800) 762-8267
www.trakmats.com
New John Deere designs influenced by consumers
John Deere says its Z-Trak Pro 800 Series comprises five models with a variety of deck sizes and was inspired primarily by customer feedback. The series features four models with air-cooled Kawasaki engines while the Z840A has a liquid-cooled engine. Three models feature Deere’s Mulch-on-Demand deck as a factory-installed option, available in 48-, 54- and 60-inch widths. This deck transitions from side discharge to mulching with the flip of a lever.
John Deere
Outdoor Booth #7834D
Indoor Booth #1128
www.johndeere.com
Spread and spray with Z-Max
The Z-Spray Z-Max from L.T. Rich can carry 300 pounds of fertilizer and 50 gallons of liquid. The Z-Max has a 200-pound hopper system, two 50-pound rear fertilizer trays and two 25-gallon tanks. Equipped with a 4.0 gpm pump and five Hypro air injection-course tips, it can spray up to 200,000 square feet per fill in widths from two to 10 feet.
L.T. Rich Products
Booth #10206
(877) 482-2040
www.z-spray.com
See the Sabertooth sod cutter in action
Tygar’s SC2000 Sabertooth cuts up to 150 feet of sod per minute and removes up to 9,000 square feet of sod per hour. Powered by a 5.5-horsepower Honda engine, the 152-pound machine has a telescopic depth adjustment up to 2 inches with a cutting width of 12 inches.
Tygar
Indoor Booth #7056
Outdoor Booth #7540D
(866) 999-9506
www.tygarmfg.com
Dolmar’s 4-stroke backpack blowers
New Dolmar backpack blowers PB-7600.4 and PB-7601.4 feature the power of an OHV 4-stroke, low-emission, fuel-efficient engine. Operator features include a comfortable frame for even weight distribution, fatigue-reducing vibration dampers, low operation sounds, convenient controls and padded straps.
Dolmar Power Products
Booth #11136
(770) 569-4945
www.dolmarpowerproducts.com
Medium-duty hybrid trucks in production
Kenworth offers a fuel-efficient, hybrid option to its new T270 Class 6 and T370 Class 7 conventional models, with a goal to enhance fuel economy by up to 30 percent in pickup and delivery applications and up to 50 percent in utility applications. Purchasers of the hybrids may qualify for a maximum federal tax credit of $6,000 (Class 6) and $12,000 (Class 7).
Kenworth Trucks
www.kenworth.com
ZTRs join Worldlawn’s mower lineup
Worldlawn Power Equipment’s new zero-turn mowers are available in 52- and 60-inch cutting widths. The 52-inch mower is powered by a Kawasaki air-cooled V-Twin 21-horsepower or 23-horsepower engine, and the 60-inch mower is available with a Kawasaki 23-, 25- or 27-horsepower engine.
Worldlawn Power Equipment
Booth # 8014
(626) 934-9700
www.worldlawnpowerequip.com
Groundcover mats warranted for six years
AlturnaMATSR groundcover mats are made of 100-percent polyethylene, and make it easy to get vehicles and equipment over lawns, through mud and across soft terrain. The mats are warranted for six years from the date of purchase against cracking and breaking, and are strong enough to support tons of equipment.
AlturnaMATS
Booth #1185
(888) 544-6287
www.alturnamats.com
Volvo introduces new compact excavators
Designed for tight, congested or busy jobsites, the Volvo EC35C and ECR48C feature a cab designed for less operator fatigue and more production. The EC35C sports a conventional design for exceptional stability with minimal superstructure swing. The ECR48C has a short radius superstructure that turns inside the width of its tracks. Both machines are powered by new-generation Volvo diesel engines.
Volvo Construction Equipment
Indoor Booth #11104
Outdoor Booth #7524D
(828) 650-2000
www.volvoce.com/na
Soil renovator efficient and easy to use
The RotaDairon soil renovator’s combination of functions cultivates, grades, seeds and rolls in a single pass. It can bury stone, sod and debris to save you time and money while creating a mature turf. Offset design covers one tire track, eliminating costly touch-up work and V-body blades dig with the point of the blade, reducing panning and providing better drainage.
RotaDairon
Booth #6011
(800) 554-4863
www.mge-dairon.com
Husqvarna 450 chainsaw
Powered by Husqvarna’s X-TORQ engine technology, the 450 (50 cc, 3.2 horsepower) offers improved performance while reducing fuel consumption by up to 20 percent and emissions by up to 60 percent. Features include a new one-touch “always on” choke/stop control, air purge, decompression valve and oversized starter handle with optional spring assist.
Husqvarna
Booth #9094
www.usa.husqvarna.com
Compact power rake perfect for small yards
ATI’s Preseeder rake’s helical tooth pattern provides smooth operation when preparing seedbeds for small yards and refurbishing existing turf. Its 36-inch width allows you to maneuver in tight areas and fits well in the bed of a pickup truck. Powered by a 13-horsepower Honda engine, it features a hydrostatic drive with reverse and a 10-position adjustable working depth.
ATI Corporation
Outdoor Booth #6367D
(800) 342-0905
www.preseeder.com
Reel Mower offers durability
The Eastman Reel Mower boasts strength and durability with a frame constructed of solid welded steel. With a cutting width of 25 inches, the Reel Mower is powered by a 5- or 51/2-horsepower Honda engine or a 51/2-horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine. It is equipped with eight height adjustments, from 3⁄16 to 1/ inches, and comes with the option of either five or seven blades.
Eastman Industries
Indoor Booth #9164
Outdoor Booth #6034D
(800) 760-1680
www.eastmanmowers.com
Spread salt fast and efficiently
Blizzard’s Ice Chaser double wall poly/electric hopper spreader is rust-resistant and features a hinged cover that doubles as a spill guard to protect the bed of your truck from salt. A 16-inch cleated rubber conveyor belt driven by a single 1/2-horsepower electric motor delivers an even flow of material, while variable speed control provides self-diagnostics via LED readout.
Blizzard
Booth #4152
(888) 680-8600
www.blizzardplows.com
Protect objects for storage or transportation
Dr. Shrink is a full-service supplier of premium shrink wrap and installation accessories. The company stocks shrink wrap up to 40 feet wide, heat tools, venting systems, zipper access doors and specialized tapes. Shrink wrap containing antimicrobial, volatile corrosion intercept, and flame retardant additives are also available.
Dr. Shrink
Booth #8044
(800) 968-5147
www.dr-shrink.com
Six functions offer design flexibility
PRO Landscape from Drafix is a design suite including realistic photo imaging, 3-D photo rendering, easy-to-use CAD, 3-D CAD rendering, night and holiday lighting and complete customer proposals. These functions can help landscape contractors, designers and architects save valuable time, generate plans that are easy for customers to read, and potentially sell more jobs.
Drafix
Booth #5193
(800) 231-8574
www.prolandscape.com
Mini track loaders improve safety, comfort and durability
Bobcat’s B-Series MT52 and MT55 mini track loaders’ Tier IV engines meet the latest emissions requirements and the machines include an auxiliary hydraulic continuous flow shutoff lever for increased safety. Adjustable tilt steering on the directional control handle improves operator comfort no matter the height of the user. A removable ride on platform provides better access to tight jobsites.
Bobcat
Indoor Booth #4000
Outdoor Booth #7601D
(866) 823-7898
www.bobcat.com
Brite Ideas introduces new LED Warm White
LED Warm White offers a softer glow and mimics the color of traditional incandescent lighting. Landscapers and lighting professionals can take advantage of the LED offerings from Brite Ideas, including energy savings and longer bulb life while maintaining a traditional look.
Brite Ideas Decorating
Booth #9026
(888) 200-5131
www.sayitwithlights.com
Edge Artist landscape edger
The Edge Artist edger by E-Z Trench uses the carbide-tipped Bedscaper blade design, focusing 5.5 horsepower into small portions to cut through tough soils. With cutting depths of 2, 3 or 4 inches, it’s easy to redefine beds quickly and efficiently. Features include semi-pneumatic, flat-free rubber tires and a folding handle for compact storage.
E-Z Trench
Booth #2212
(843) 756-6444
www.eztrench.com
Manage natural resources with topdresser
Earth & Turf’s 100SP self-propelled walking topdresser has a capacity of 10 cubic feet to permit fewer loads per jobs. Powered by a 10.5-horsepower Briggs & Stratton ITEK engine, its four-wheel stance increases stability on hilly lawns. The machine will spread a variety of materials, wet or dry, such as sand, compost, topdressing mixes, wood chips and more.
Earth & Turf Products
Indoor Booth #11027
Outdoor Booth #6367D
(800) 879-6507
www.earthandturf.com
New herbicide for T&O uses
Backed by the strength of Makhteshim-Agan Industries, Quali-Pro’s Prodiamine 65 WDG is a pre-emergent herbicide for turf and ornamental uses. It offers both broadleaf and grassy weed control, including season-long crabgrass control.
Quali-Pro
Booth #680
(800) 979-8994
www.quali-pro.com
Wheel loaders improve load/unload process
Yanmar’s V-Series compact wheel loaders are built around quiet, fuel-efficient Yanmar diesel engines. The three-cylinder, water-cooled engine generates 30.3 horsepower in the V3-6 and 40.4 horsepower in the V4-6, propelling loaders at up to 11.8 miles per hour. For versatility, the V3-6 and V4-6 loaders can be equipped with an optional quick-coupler that fits most skid-steer attachments.
Yanmar Construction Equipment
Outdoor Booth #7644D
(770) 877-7570
www.yanmar.com
Grasshopper unveils ’09 models
Grasshopper’s new air-cooled mowers are powered by 29- and 35-horsepower Vanguard Big Block engines for performance in the toughest conditions. MaxTorque diesel models feature 25- and 30-horsepower engines, combining diesel and fuel efficiency to save up to 700 gallons of fuel per 1,000 hours of use.
The Grasshopper Company
Indoor Booth #9130
Outdoor Booth #7543D
(620) 345-8621
www.grasshoppermower.com
Customize your company’s Web site
GreenIndustryWebsites.com offers more than 17 customized tools to help maximize the functionality of your Web site. In addition to existing tools like the popular plant guide, they have added two new tools. A project management function allows you to create projects, assign tasks and help you stay organized. The coupon generator allows you to offer valuable discounts to your customers.
Porterware
(866) 968-2932
www.landscaperwebsites.com
