sponsored by 2024 GREEN INDUSTRY OUTLOOK – CONTRACTORS


The outlook M


ore than three-quarters (76%) of respondents are optimistic about the future of the industry at least to some degree. As might be expected, contractors under 40 are even more optimistic (94%) than the general group. No one in that age range was


pessimistic about the future of the industry. In general, contractors aren’t looking to add new services in the upcoming year (33%). If


they are, smart irrigation system upgrades top the list (25%), with landscape lighting right behind (24%). Te majority of respondents aren’t planning on reducing any services for the upcoming


year (77%). Te few that are will typically be looking at lawn maintenance (6%) or snow and ice management (5%) as the most likely to go. As far as investments in equipment and services go, the top three haven’t changed from last


year. Trucks still lead the list (46%) at nearly the same percentage, with construction equip- ment (35%) and battery-powered equipment (30%) within 4% of their totals from last year.


Kyle Brown is the editor-in-chief of Irrigation & Lighting and can be reached at kylebrown@irrigation.org.


Which services is your business considering expanding or adding in 2024? None


What is the main reason for your level of optimism?


I have seen some great innovations and


products in the field over the past few years. Economy and recession have significantly


reduced the residential market demand. Folks are more aware of the importance of


their lawns. Too many watering restrictions.


The level of growth in our economic area is still at a peak. The lack of qualified workers at all levels of the


irrigation field. The mean age of the customer base seems


to be lowering. They are “ga ga” for gadgets and Wi-Fi controllers are fun.


Quality help is harder to retain each year. We will be the industry leading the way in


water conservation. 18 Irrigation & Lighting November 2023


Smart irrigation system upgrades Landscape lighting Irrigation maintenance Irrigation design and installation Irrigation system audit Hardscaping Other


Lawn maintenance Drainage


Water features Holiday lighting


Landscape design and installation Chemical application


Disease, insect and weed control Turf and landscape renovation Hydroseeding/erosion control Tree and ornamental care Snow/ice management


How optimistic are you about the future of the irrigation industry over the next 3-5 years?


25% 24% 20% 15%


11% 11% 11%


10% 10% 10% 10%


9%


8% 8%


6% 5% 4% 3% 0% 5% 20% 36% 40%


I am very optimistic. I am somewhat optimistic. I am neither optimistic or pessimistic. I am somewhat pessimistic. I am very pessimistic.


irrigationandlighting.org


33%


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