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Car lovers have the big auto shows in Detroit and New York and gadget gurus flock to the Consumer Electronics Show. But to see the latest outdoor power equipment and related products, industry experts including those from Consumer Reports go to the annual Green Industry and Equipment Expo (GIE+Expo). The trade show starts today in Louisville, and it's where we preview most of the outdoor gear we'll be testing over the coming months including mowers, blowers, power tools and more.
Our editors and engineers will be meeting with Ariens, Briggs & Stratton, Husqvarna, John Deere, Toro, MTD (maker of multiple brands such as Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Yard Machines) and other manufacturers to find out what will be in stores next year. Thanks to the Kentucky Exposition Center's 19-acre outdoor demonstration area, we'll also get some hands-on experience with some of the products we'll purchase for testing.
The GIE+Expo is a joint effort of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, Professional Grounds Management Society, and Professional Landcare Network (or PLANET). And sharing exhibit-floor space with GIE+Expo will be Hardscape North America, a trade show for professionals who build walks, retaining walls, and home improvements.
For the next three days our experts will be kicking the tires and revving the engines. After all, who needs a muscle car if you can have a beefy mower or a brawny generator.
