Informed and involved

Gaining customer insight is critical to the success of any business. That is why John Deere supports Lawn & Landscape’s initiative to provide its annual research through the 2014 State of the Industry Report.

The opportunity to review projected trends and the financial health of the lawn and landscape industry is essential to your business planning and ours.

Upon reviewing this valuable information, you’ll find the outlook for the lawn and landscape services industry is promising for the foreseeable future. Nearly half of the contractors surveyed have more work backlog than they did a year ago and over 90 percent of the respondents reported that they will generate a profit this year.

Other leading indicators such as weather, housing starts, home values and employment figures support the positive trends you’ll see in this issue. Industry revenues are projected to grow by 7.4 percent for 2014 and 8.5 percent for 2015. And while quality available labor continues to be a limiting factor in the industry’s growth, there is a positive trend in employment opportunities of 2.5 percent and 2.2 percent over the next two years. This is good news in such a labor-dependent industry.

I have learned over the years that there is tremendous benefit in listening and learning from those who have experience and insight within our industry. As the major sponsor of the Green Industry Conference, as well as various industry events throughout the year, we continue to gain greater knowledge into the opportunities and challenges that you, our customers, face.

As you read through this issue and start planning for next year, I would encourage you to get involved in the communities you serve to promote the benefits of well-managed green spaces and your profession in creating and maintaining the quality of life in the communities you serve. Be an active member in your state or national trade associations.

To take full advantage of the projected continued growth in the industry, you will need to implement new and innovative approaches to business. John Deere is dedicated to providing you with the products, dealer support, financing and other integrated solutions to help you grow and prosper.

Sustainable growth is important for all of us. There has never been a better time to clearly define your brand, your niche, strengthen your business and better serve your communities and customers.

We wish you a safe and prosperous year!


Ken Taylor, CLP
General Sales Manager
John Deere Corporate Business Division