UK IS HOME TO FIRST EURO-BUILT ZERO TURN

In positive news for the industry in the UK, the first zero-turn mower to be manufactured in Europe has been produced at the AriensCo factory in Great Haseley, Oxfordshire.

In what has to be seen as a real coup for the groundscare sector in this country, the decision by the US-owned company to build in Britain follows industry analysis which showed exceptional growth in demand for zero-turn mowers in the UK and Europe in recent years. Until now, zero-turns have mainly been imported from the US.

Choosing to build the machines in Great Haseley has meant "significant investment" going into the Oxfordshire factory, resulting in the new zero-turn production line, fixtures and tooling. A number of CE zero-turn models will be produced for European markets and close collaboration with the US will be maintained.

Also great news from the move is that a number of new jobs have been created for the area.

“Sales of zero-turns in Europe have experienced outstanding growth over the past three years,” explained Darren Spencer, AriensCo Vice President - EMEA and Asia.

 Darren went on to say that the industry analysis which they've undertaken points to "many opportunities" which could be met by producing zero-turns at their Great Haseley plant. "We currently sell into ten different countries within Europe and aim to increase our European footprint in 2020," he said.

AriensCo say future growth is predicted to accelerate as the benefits of zero-turn mowers are understood by potential customers.

With the machines now being produced in the UK the company believe they will see some significant advantages, including allowing for rapid delivery and improved availability throughout the year. They also say there is the potential for zero-turns to be adapted with features and benefits to meet local market needs.