The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute has predicted year-end shipments for commercial turf and grounds care equipment will decrease in 2002 but increase in 2003. For example, the organization expects to see a 4.4 percent decrease for walk-behind mowers in 2002, but a 4.8 percent increase for 2003. The predictions also include a 6.6 percent drop from 1,533,881 units in 2001 to 1,433,340 units in 2002. The largest shift will occur with commercial riding mowers, which are forecasted to increase from 112,772 units in 2002 to 120,762 units in 2003, a 7.1 percent rise.

Source: For a complete report on the grounds care industry, visit http://research.grounds-mag.com/.

UNIT SHIPMENTS MODEL YEAR BASIS (SEPTEMBER — AUGUST)