Autumn conjures up different feelings or memories for each of us. Those who make their living in landscaping are probably breathing a collective sigh of relief. The summer months pass at breakneck speed as orders are processed, projects completed, and maintenance perhaps consumes much of that most precious commodity – time. Hopefully, with temperatures cooling a bit, the kids going back to school, and business now approaching a more manageable pace, you can finally get to some of those important tasks that have been pushed down on your priority list.
The good news is that the landscaping industry has remained relatively strong during a very challenging economic downturn. It appears that the price of fuel and a supply of houses much greater than the current demand has caused homeowners to become less mobile, creating beautiful, more enjoyable living spaces in their backyards. This trend could likely become a new way of life for many Americans, which will bode very well for the future of professional landscaping.
The industry has been referred to as immature. This doesn’t mean unsophisticated; rather it refers to an industry possessing a great deal of growth potential. Those of you who have been in the business for a while can see this transformation in progress. The equipment manufacturers are no longer taking the landscaping segment of their businesses for granted. They now cater to your demands and create models more specialized to perform your specific applications.
This month, many of you may make the trip to Louisville, Kentucky, to attend the GIE+EXPO trade show, which is our industry’s largest annual trade event. Anticipation of everything new and innovative in landscaping seems at an all-time high. Machines powered by alternative fuel sources, trucks designed specifically for your business needs, new tools of the trade, and educational seminars will all make for a worthwhile trip to Louisville, October 23-25. While you are there, be sure to stop by our Booth #1000 and register for a chance to win our Landscaper’s Dream Package (on display in the booth), worth well over $50,000. It will be awarded soon after the show is over. This fall may be that point in time you look back on and see as a pivotal moment when your business took a giant leap forward.
