The Power Equipment Trade dealer survey has been appearing in these pages biennially without fail since 1992—it is the longest running industry database of its kind. During that time, there have been recessions (both large and small), political changes at home and abroad, and an emphasis on battery-powered tools.

Overall? Survey says: Things are holding strong and steady; bleak in some spots, bright in others. Rid- ing mowers continue to rule the showroom, with over half of dealer-respondents saying it is their most profitable machine.

79% of dealers who took the online survey identified themselves as over 50 (just 6% say they are between 20 and 39!)—and doing busi- ness with fewer distributors and manufacturers than be- fore. Sixty-five percent of respondents are carrying fewer lines than they did two years ago. But not all change is a bad thing; demand for battery power is growing in nearly every dealer market.

• Kress
• Rotary
• Sunbelt