Equip Exposition 2025: News & Announcements from the Floor

According to the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), Equip Exposition 2025 opened to record registered attendance. 2025 marked year-four in a streak of a sold-out tradeshow floor. Here are some news and seen things during the tradeshow. The show also broke record attenance with nearly 30,000 registered attendees and double-digit growth in both landscaper and dealer audiences. 

Equip Exposition 2026 (co-located with Hardscape North America) is scheduled for October 20 to 23, 2026.

"We are looking at rotating Equip [Exposition] in 2028 and 2029." 
— Kris Kiser

“Now in our fourth year as Equip, we continue to break records in both attendance and exhibit space,” said Kris Kiser, President and CEO of OPEI, which owns and manages Equip Exposition. “The show, which was recently named Greatest Trade Show in the country, continues to serve as the most important gathering for the global industry, with attendance from all 50 states and 52 countries.”  

Fun Facts

• Landscaper attendance grew 12%
• Dealer attendance grew 17%
• Along with Hardscape North America, the event brings more than $30 million annually to Louisville
• Since OPEI took on full ownership and management of the show in 2022, it has seen record attendance and sold-out exhibit space every year

Outdoor Power Equipment Institute

“Our team continues to evolve the show to bring attendees the best programming and allow peer-to-peer connections they aren’t able to have anywhere else,” Kiser said. “We’re already hard at work on next year’s event to ensure it remains the greatest show in our industry.”  

Keynote address was from Jessee Cole, creator of the Savannah Bananas, sponsored by Kress. Churchill Downs raceway, sponsored by CAT, took in a concert featuring Big and Rich with Gretchen Wilson, sponsored by Gravely, and took part in the annual TurfMutt Fun Run and 5K, sponsored by Active Dynamics.

There was standing room only for keynote address Jesse Cole, creator of the Savannah Bananas, sponsored by Kress.Outdoor Power Equipment Institute

Also new in 2025 was the Equip Creator Space, which allowed attendees to connect with industry influencers on the trade show floor. And the event again hosted Mulligan’s Mutt Madness, a national dog adoption event held in conjunction with the Kentucky Humane Society, which found forever homes for 13 dogs.  

Equip offers attendees a broad lineup of education in both English and Spanish. Expanded education offerings this year included sessions focused on irrigation, outdoor lighting, erosion control, and tree care. Equip’s education partners include Landscape Management magazine, the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals, Bob Clements International, Consumer Reports, CultureID, the Davey Institute, the Equipment and Engine Training Council, the International Erosion Control Association, the Farnsworth Group, the International Society of Arboriculture, the Irrigation Association, the North American Equipment Dealers Association, the Professional Grounds Management Society, and Texas A&M University.

The 2026 Equip will again feature a custom small-batch bourbon to be named by a show attendee and an expanded Tree Care Arena. And plans for future shows are also in the works. The Kentucky Exposition Center is currently undergoing a $400 million expansion, part of which will continue to impact the facility over the next few years. The OPEI Board of Directors is exploring rotating to new cities during this renovation window and returning to Louisville once complete.

“With anticipated construction at the Kentucky Exposition Center that could impact the South Wing loading docks and other parts of the show floor, we are looking at rotating Equip in 2028 and 2029, and returning to Louisville after the construction is finished,” Kiser said. “Louisville has been our home for 42 years, and we are excited to see the changes coming to the KEC that will improve the experience for both attendees and exhibitors.” 

Mulligan’s Mutt Madness took place in partnership with KHS on October 23, 2025 during Equip Exposition 2025. Since it started in 2018, the event has matched nearly 100 rescue dogs – including Mulligan the TurfMutt who was adopted by Kiser at the 2019 Mutt Madness – with new families in the Equip Exposition community.

WAC Landscape Lighting Decorative Solutions

WAC Landscape Lighting introduced many new landscape innovations in its award-winning Colorscaping Lighting and Color System. New products will include a new Deck Lights that integrate with the Colorscaping Lighting and Control System, Color-Changing and Tunable White Submersible Lights, CCT-Selectable Path Lights, Landscape Grand Ledge Path Lights, and Sleek Modern Landscape Bollards.

Find more information at https://www.greenindustrypros.com/22952388 

Husqvarna Adds New Chainsaws to Lineup

The 445SHusqvarnaHusqvarna released information on five new chainsaws for the company's lineup of professional and residential models. The pro models:

• The 564 XP Fuel-Injected Chainsaw (Professional) - The Husqvarna 564 XP 60cc chainsaw was designed for forestry and tree care professionals who demand cutting-edge performance. Combining the compact size and maneuverability of a 50cc saw with the powerful output of a 70cc, it delivers an exceptional 5.4 hp in a slim, lightweight body.
• The 550i XP Battery Chainsaw (Professional) - The Husqvarna 550i XP combines outstanding power-to-weight performance with a slim, lightweight design. Built for professionals who demand agility, reliability, and the ability to tackle the toughest tasks, it’s a truly versatile solution in the field. With its flexible battery system, the 550i XP adapts easily to different needs. 

Find more information at https://www.greenindustrypros.com/22952077

Ignite Launches Soil Conditioner

Ignite AttachmentsIgnite Attachments' soil conditioner is designed to make cleanup, grading, and seedbed preparation easier and more efficient. The PTO-powered implement was created to address key job site frustrations with a smarter design that works harder and lasts longer. Compatible with compact tractors in the 18-to-60-horsepower range, the implement is available in 48-, 60- and 72-in. widths.

Find more information at https://www.greenindustrypros.com/22952068

John Deere Redesigns Two Compact Excavators & Launches New Zero Turn

John DeereJohn Deere redesigned 17 P-Tier and 26 P-Tier Compact Excavators. Stemming from valuable customer feedback and testing insights, both models have been fully manufactured to John Deere specifications, offering a distinctive experience and impeccable quality. Providing optimal versatility on the jobsite, the 17 P-Tier and 26 P-Tier Compact Excavators are designed to excel in a variety of construction and landscaping applications. 

Find more information at https://www.greenindustrypros.com/22952104 

Homebridge Precast GFRC Culvert & Garden Panels

Aiming to launch a new paradigm for hardscapers and landscapers, Homebridge's durable, lightweight, and prefabricated product line was designed to transform how hardscape projects are built and maintained. The prefabricated glass-fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) culvert walls and garden systems take the guesswork out of labor, giving contractors reliable results every time.

For more information https://www.greenindustrypros.com/22951057

Move Materials Easier with the W.I.T.C.H.

Outdoor Impressions Inc.The W.I.T.C.H. (Wheelbarrow In Tow Conversion Hitch) is a patented system that allows standard wheelbarrows to be instantly hitched and released from tow - anyone can haul up to 500 lbs. three times faster, all day long. The W.I.T.C.H. bridges the gap between towing and pushing. Crews can move heavy loads quickly across open space, slopes, or soft ground using the power of tow, yet still deliver every load with the precision of a wheelbarrow to areas where machines can’t reach.

For more information https://www.greenindustrypros.com/22952256

SiteOne Landscape Supply Provided Solutions

SiteOne Landscape Supply featured a PROTOTYPE battery-powered broadcast spreader - an electric upgrade to their popular 300 model. 

The SiteOne PROTOTYPE electric broadcast spreader was designed with a 100 lb. hopper and is self-propelled to help lawncare pros work even more efficiently. This model features a DeWalt 15 amp FlexVolt battery, but we're told that the company plans to make adapters to allow the use of other battery brands as well. At current, the plan is it should not be limited to a single battery platform. 

Vermeer Launches Mini Loader Series 

Vermeer's next-generation mini loaders includes four models: the ML80, ML100, ML130and ML150. Built upon the success of previous Vermeer mini skid steers, the ML series is the result of direct feedback from tree care, landscape, rental and construction contractors, delivering enhanced performance, anoperator-focused design and features that improve jobsite efficiency and reliability. 

“When we talk to contractors, their success often comes down to jobsite efficiency. They need to maximize what they can accomplish with a single machine,” said Cole Chesnut, product manager forVermeer Environmental Equipment.“ 

That’s the principle behind the new ML series. The company focused on delivering robust hydraulic power to the attachment and ground drive motors, so whether they’re trenching or moving heavy material, they have the performance they need. Vermeer paired that power with a refined operator station designed for all-day comfort and intuitive control. The new ML series is engineered around several key benefits that define this next generation of Vermeer mini loaders.

Portable Winch Launches Electric Winch, Powered by STIHL

Portable Winch Co.Portable Winch Co. collaborated with STIHL to launch the APW6000, the company's most powerful electric winch to date. This revolutionary model combines Portable Winch Co's cutting-edge winch engineering with Stihl's industry-leading lithium-ion AP battery technology. The APW6000 was purpose-built for those who demand unwavering reliability in the most challenging conditions. With CE and IPX4 certifications, it combines rugged performance with the portability required by professionals such as arborists and field operators.

For more information https://www.greenindustrypros.com/22952371

At the STIHL booth...

Big things are on the horizon for STIHL From wheeled goods and mobile charging solutions to lawn and tree care innovations, STIHL is showcasing its Dual Technology Leadership in both gas and battery - giving landscapers the power to choose without compromise. At EQUIP, attendees can demo these upcoming products and speak directly with STIHL product experts. 

STIHL had a tattoo booth set up during Equip Exposition 2025 where fans of the brand chose from 10 tattoo designs (specially crafted to take only 30-45 minutes to complete). The opportunity was fully booked before the show. 

Check out the “Coming Soon” web page on STIHLusa.com to see what STIHL has in store for 2026.

STIHL has a lot of plans for the future, with 80 new products planned to launch in 2026 (there was over 70 in 2025, by the way), they upgraded their TSA230 cutoff machine with 60% more power, their CM6 ProPower hub will be able to charge up to 2 batteries on the go, they've made their Pro BSA280 backpack blower even quieter, plus four new battery-powered mowers with a 90 minute runtime. 

Telematics & Fleet Management Solution from New Holland

New Holland ConstructionNew Holland Construction’s myNewHollandConstruction digital platform marks the next generation of telematics and fleet management technology to enhance operators’, fleet managers’ and owners’ abilities to conveniently and effectively track and manage their connected machines. myNewHollandConstruction is available to access and download for all New Holland Construction customers who have a machine set up with connectivity.

For more information https://www.greenindustrypros.com/22952395

Advanced Battery Tech & Enhanced Engine Lineup from Briggs & Stratton

Celebrating their 117 years of powering the industry, Briggs & Stratton featured the Auto Red Bug at Equip Exposition 2025. 

Vanguard showcased powerful lineup of commercial gas engines and battery solutions within the theme "For Pros. By Pros." Vanguard had its full range of commercial lithium-ion battery packs on display, showcasing both fixed and swappable configurations that provide reliable power, require no maintenance and deliver a lower total cost of ownership.

Not one to look past its BIG BLOCK engine series, Vanguard also featured a redesigned cylinder head, featuring more cooling fins and aluminum, that works in tandem with an optimized airflow system to allow the engine to run up to 60°F cooler in harsh conditions compared to the previous model and optimized starting and cold-crank power alongside upgraded wire harnesses and starter motors for ultimate reliability.

The team also announced the new Billy Goat Z3002 Hurricane.

For more information https://www.greenindustrypros.com/22952973

Toro Launches GrandStand MULTI FORCE EVO & Autonomous PROLINE AMI

The Toro CompanyToro empowered landscape crews to take on more with the introduction of the redesigned GrandStand MULTI FORCE EVO and autonomous PROLINE AMI at Equip Exposition. Both solutions deliver serious results and give pros the power to maximize productivity, streamline workloads, and increase ROI. The latest MULTI FORCE EVO gets a powerful boost in strength thanks to the fierce Kawasaki EVO 34.5 HP engine. Plus, the included service stand attachment makes maintenance fast and easy, giving you more time on the job. The autonomous PROLINE AMI acts as extra crew. Toro’s latest autonomous mower is guided by GNSS+RTK, a high-precision positioning technology that combines satellite navigation with real-time corrections for consistent results with less overlap.

For more information https://www.greenindustrypros.com/22953119

This marks only a small snapshot of everything that transpired and launched at Equip Exposition 2025. If a favorite of yours wasn't included above, email us at [email protected] with a photo and a paragraph explaining what's happening.