105,900 units is the estimate by Power Systems Research of the number of Skid Steer Loaders to be produced in North America (Canada and the United States) in 2020.
This information comes from industry interviews and from two proprietary databases maintained by Power Systems Research: EnginLink™ , which provides information on engines, and OE Link™, a database of equipment manufacturers.
Market Share: With 35% of total units produced, Bobcat leads in production of Skid Steer Loaders in North America. In second and third positions are Case New Holland and Caterpillar with 22.5% and 14.5%, respectively.
Exports: Collectively, up to 30% worldwide.
Trends: Production of skid steer loaders in North America increased 3% in 2019 over 2018. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, production was expected to remain flat with a nominal decrease of ½% in 2020. This decline will be more severe with plant shutdowns etc., due to current virus concerns. Overall, loader production could plummet up to 40% this year.
As the construction industry recovers, construction will continue to be a key driver in overall industry growth. Flat sales can be attributed to the American agriculture industry that is sluggish (still battling commodity prices) that accounts for 29% of all skid steer usage in the market today. Expect production of Skid Steer Loaders in North America to increase up to 5% over the next 3-5 years. PSR
Carol Turner is Senior Analyst, Global Operations
