Industry Partners - John Deere

Ken Taylor

Starting a new business is never easy. Often times in this industry, the beginning stages include only a truck and a trailer, a few hand tools and the desire to beautify and enhance outdoor spaces. From such a modest beginning, you have established your brand and the services you provide as a trusted and reliable green industry service provider in the markets you serve today.

John Deere has a similar story. Founded in 1837, a one-man blacksmith business driven by passion, persistence and integrity, developed into a corporation employing more than 50,000 people and conducting business across the world.

In 2011, we all were faced with unique and unfamiliar challenges requiring us to reevaluate our businesses. Many who have been in this industry for more than 20 years state this has been the most difficult time they've experienced. With unexpected economic plummets, we were required to re-think strategies, and take ourselves back to when we were first starting in the business.

The 2011 Lawn & Landscape State of the Industry Report proves that despite the challenges of the recent economic environment for businesses, there have been several areas of growth. This year, the survey showed that commercial mowing and landscape management services are the fastest growing services, followed by design and build installation services.

As we head into 2012, I am pleased to learn that landscape professionals are optimistic and eager to take a fresh look at their businesses. We are aware of what is happening, tracking trends and preparing for a new year and new challenges.

This is proven through this year's State of the Industry Report, which shows that professionals are predicting to see mowing and landscape maintenance remain as the fastest growing service, with design and build installation at a close second.

John Deere understands that today's economy calls for updated and innovative approaches. We are dedicated to working together to find the solutions necessary to achieve success, and our commitment to this business does not stop there. Our experienced John Deere dealer network is here to support your business needs, even after the sale, with the most extensive factory trained service technicians and knowledgeable parts staff in the industry. 

We have a single, simple priority: To ensure product uptime in the most responsive manner, because we understand downtime is not an option when you are running a business.

At John Deere, we acknowledge and appreciate what you do each day to enhance the land we live, work and play on. We hope the work we do in 2012 and beyond will move us closer toward becoming a trusted advisor on the job site.

The John Deere team looks forward to seeing you soon, whether at an industry event or a John Deere location.

Ken Taylor, CLP

General Sales Manager – Commercial Business Development