681,500 units is the estimate by Power Systems Research of the number of Lawn & Garden Tractors to be produced in 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 38% of total units produced, Husqvarna leads in production of Lawn & Garden Tractors in North America.  In second position, with combined plant totals, is MTD with 33%; third, also with combined plant totals, is Deere & Co. with 24%.

Exports: Up to 25% worldwide.

Trends: In 2019, production of Lawn & Garden Tractors in North America (US) increased nearly 8%, but production is expected to drop 16% in 2020.  The gain in 2019 was the result of increased demand for new fuel-efficient models combined with the demand for new equipment.  Latest models offer a variety of features for home buyers based on yard size (acreage). Entry-level lawn riders are suited for 1.5 acres or less and usually have 1-cylinder engines. 

Mid-grade riders have twin cylinder engines with high HP’s that work well in large cutting areas.  The forecasted decline is caused by the temporary lull in production of the Craftsman line along with unfavorable mowing conditions (wet spring) and the saturation of new products in the market. 

COVID-19 may play a factor in the manufacturing decrease because of plant shutdowns, however production can easily ramp up to meet demand for these seasonal items.  Production is expected increase up to 5% by 2025; lifespan of this product is about 10 years.   PSR

Carol Turner Is Senior Analyst, Global Operations, Power Systems Research