Louisville -- You'll like it

I just returned from my second trip to the International Lawn, Garden and Power Equipment Expo (known just as Expo) and I remembered why I like this show so much: It's organized, it's got lots going on and it's fun.

Most people here at Landscape Management have been going to this show longer than I have and remember when it was held in the middle of summer, when the fairgrounds were so scorching hot that you'd burn your legs on the vinyl mower seats outside.

But this has been a fall show for a few years now, and fall is where this show is going to stay. Starting next year it combines with the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) Green Industry Expo and the Professional Grounds Management Society School of Grounds Management into one giant fall show.

Of course, speculation about the new combined show buzzed around last weekend.

PLANET representatives were on hand to chat with show visitors about the developments and OPEI held a press conference to discuss some of what went into the decision.

"Many manufacturers already attend both," said Fred Whyte, OPEI chairman this year and president of Stihl. "GIE has traditionally done an outstanding job at education. The merger will add 40% more space, and the combined show has a multitude of advantages. It will be a one-stop shop for attendees."

The Expo is a spectacular sight. With so many people crowding around the booths and at the outdoor demo site, it makes the industry look pretty healthy.

These show organizers know their stuff and they will make sure the new show has something for everyone, whether you're a contractor, lawn care business owner or an equipment dealer.

Plus Louisville's a fun city. Some people have griped a bit that the show is contracted to stay there through 2010, but the reality is that Louisville is the best place to accommodate both the 500,000-sq-ft. minimum space requirement plus an attached outdoor demo area. And from what I've seen, there will be plenty of restaurants to visit and fun stuff to do to keep visitors occupied for the next few years.

The show wasn't the only news though. A few other interesting bits of news we picked up:

• Manufacturers are diversifying: All the major iron manufacturers showed a big variety of models, especially in the mower category. It's not hard to find walk-behinds, stand-ons and ride-ons in every size class. Keep an eye out for our November issue, where we'll take a look at some of these new products.

• Fuel efficiency and quiet operation are trends sweeping the nation: Sure, California's on all manufacturer's minds when it comes to emissions and noise standards, but most players are meeting market demands with more efficient models of large equipment and handhelds.

• Homeowners wanna be like the pros: More manufacturers had expanded "prosumer" offerings, especially in the zero-turn category. Get ready for your clients to start asking you what you drive so they can get one for their vacation homes.

• Manufacturers want to be there for you: Full service is the order of the day. Many companies are partnering with training programs (like Ariens/Gravely/Stens with Jim Paluch) or streamlining their operations to make buying and servicing equipment easier (Husqvarna, to name one).

Keep an eye on these trends and plan now for Louisville in '07.