Have you ever wondered if Toro and Exmark, two popular brands in the world of outdoor power equipment, are actually made by the same company? In this article, we will shed light on this commonly asked question and provide you with the answer you’ve been seeking. So, let’s dive right in and unravel the mystery behind Toro and Exmark’s relationship, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision for your outdoor power needs.
Overview of Toro and Exmark
Toro and Exmark are both well-known manufacturers of lawn equipment, specializing in mowers and other outdoor power tools. While they share similarities in their product offerings, they have distinct histories, target markets, and product lines. In this article, we will explore the history, product range, parent company, differences, similarities, competitors, customer perception and reviews, as well as innovations and technology of Toro and Exmark.
History of Toro
Toro, founded in 1914, has a long-standing history in the lawn equipment industry. It originally started as the Toro Motor Company, focused on providing engines for the burgeoning golf industry. Over the years, Toro expanded its operations and introduced innovative lawn mowers and other equipment for residential and professional use. Today, Toro is recognized as a leader in outdoor power tools and continues to innovate to meet the needs of its customers.
History of Exmark
Exmark, on the other hand, has a more recent history. The company was founded in 1982 and quickly gained a reputation for manufacturing high-quality commercial mowers. Exmark’s commitment to precision and performance established it as a trusted brand among landscaping professionals. Its dedication to innovation and cutting-edge technology has propelled Exmark to become a leading player in the commercial mower market.
Product Range of Toro
Toro offers a wide range of lawn equipment solutions to cater to the needs of both residential and professional users. Their product catalog includes walk-behind and riding mowers, leaf blowers, trimmers, and other outdoor power tools. Toro is known for their durable and reliable mowers, which are designed to provide exceptional performance and longevity.
Product Range of Exmark
Exmark primarily focuses on commercial-grade mowers and accessories designed specifically for the professional landscaping industry. Their product range includes zero-turn riders, stand-on mowers, and walk-behind mowers, all built to withstand the demands of commercial use. Exmark mowers are renowned for their precision cutting, maneuverability, and overall durability.
Parent Company of Toro and Exmark
Both Toro and Exmark are now subsidiaries of The Toro Company, a global leader in outdoor turf and landscape maintenance. The Toro Company, founded in 1914, has a long history of providing innovative solutions for both homeowners and professionals alike. The Toro Company’s acquisition of Exmark in 1997 allowed them to expand their product offerings and reach a broader market.
Acquisition of Exmark
The Toro Company acquired Exmark in 1997, recognizing the value and potential of the brand in the commercial mower market. The acquisition allowed The Toro Company to tap into Exmark’s expertise in designing and manufacturing high-quality mowers for professional use. Since the acquisition, both Toro and Exmark have continued to operate as separate entities under the umbrella of The Toro Company.
Relationship between Toro and Exmark
Although Toro and Exmark are separate brands, they benefit from the synergy created by being under the same parent company. The Toro Company leverages the strengths and expertise of both brands to offer a comprehensive range of lawn equipment solutions. By maintaining separate product lines and target markets, Toro and Exmark are able to serve a wide range of customers while capitalizing on their respective areas of expertise.
Differences between Toro and Exmark
Target Market
One of the key differences between Toro and Exmark lies in their target markets. Toro caters to both residential and professional users, offering a wide range of products suitable for homeowners, landscape contractors, and golf course managers. Exmark, on the other hand, focuses primarily on the professional landscaping industry, with their mowers specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of commercial use.
Product Line
Toro and Exmark also differ in their product lines. Toro provides a diverse range of outdoor power tools, including walk-behind and riding mowers, leaf blowers, trimmers, and more. Their product line is designed to meet the needs of both homeowners and professionals. Exmark, on the other hand, specializes in commercial-grade mowers, offering zero-turn riders, stand-on mowers, and walk-behind mowers tailored for the professional landscape market.
Pricing
Pricing is another area where Toro and Exmark differ. Toro’s product line includes models at various price points, making their equipment accessible to a wide range of customers. Exmark’s focus on the commercial market results in pricing geared towards professional landscapers looking for top-of-the-line performance and durability.
Features and Technology
When it comes to features and technology, Toro and Exmark both strive to provide innovative solutions. However, the emphasis may vary between the two brands. Toro often incorporates advanced features and technologies into their residential and professional-grade mowers, focusing on user-friendly designs and enhanced cutting performance. Exmark, being geared towards the professional market, places a strong emphasis on precision cutting, productivity, and durability in their mower designs.
Similarities between Toro and Exmark
Quality and Durability
Both Toro and Exmark are known for their commitment to producing high-quality and durable lawn equipment. Their reputation for reliability and longevity has made them trusted brands among homeowners and professionals alike. Toro and Exmark understand the importance of providing robust and dependable equipment that can withstand the demands of regular use in various environments.
Dealer Network
Toro and Exmark both boast extensive dealer networks, ensuring that customers have easy access to their products and services. These authorized dealers provide a reliable source of support, offering sales, parts, and service expertise. The expansive dealer networks of Toro and Exmark contribute to the convenience and accessibility of their products.
Warranty and Support
Both Toro and Exmark offer comprehensive warranties and exceptional customer support. These warranties provide peace of mind to customers, protecting their investment and ensuring that any unforeseen issues are promptly addressed. Toro and Exmark’s commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond the sale, with knowledgeable support teams ready to assist customers throughout the lifespan of their equipment.
Competitors of Toro and Exmark
Other Lawn Equipment Manufacturers
While Toro and Exmark are leaders in the lawn equipment industry, they face competition from other manufacturers that offer similar products. Some notable competitors include Honda, John Deere, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna. These companies also have a strong reputation and provide a range of mowers and outdoor power tools suitable for both residential and commercial use.
Specific Competitors
In the commercial mower market, Exmark’s primary competition comes from companies like Scag, Ferris, and Hustler. These brands are known for their high-performance mowers targeted at professional landscapers. Toro, on the other hand, competes with brands such as Honda and John Deere in the residential and professional market segments.
Customer Perception and Reviews
What Customers Say
Customer perception of Toro and Exmark is generally positive, with many praising the reliability, performance, and durability of their equipment. Homeowners appreciate Toro’s wide range of options and user-friendly designs, while professionals often favor Exmark for its precision cutting and productivity. Both brands have built a strong reputation for delivering quality products that meet the needs of their respective customer bases.
Common Customer Concerns
While Toro and Exmark generally receive positive feedback from customers, there are some common concerns that customers occasionally voice. These concerns typically revolve around pricing, with some customers finding the higher-end models from Exmark and certain Toro models to be on the expensive side. However, it’s important to note that customers often acknowledge that the quality and performance of the equipment justifies the price.
Innovations and Technology
Advancements in Toro Equipment
Toro has been at the forefront of introducing innovative features and technology in their lawn equipment. They have incorporated advancements such as smart features, improved ergonomics, fuel-efficient engines, and enhanced cutting systems into their mowers. Toro’s commitment to continuous improvement ensures that their equipment remains efficient, reliable, and up-to-date with the latest industry standards and customer preferences.
Advancements in Exmark Equipment
Exmark is also dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the mower industry. Their focus on precision cutting has led to advancements in deck design, improved traction systems, and sophisticated operator controls. Exmark strives to deliver innovative features that enhance productivity and deliver exceptional results for professional landscape contractors.
Comparison of Technological Features
While Toro and Exmark both incorporate advanced technology into their equipment, the specific features may differ to cater to their respective target markets. Toro emphasizes user-friendly designs and enhanced cutting performance, with features such as personal pace self-propel systems and adjustable cutting heights. Exmark, on the other hand, prioritizes precision cutting and productivity, often incorporating features like enhanced operator controls, improved suspension systems, and advanced cutting decks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Toro and Exmark, both under the umbrella of The Toro Company, are reputable manufacturers of lawn equipment. With their distinct histories, target markets, and product lines, they cater to a wide range of customers, from residential users to professional landscapers. While there are differences in their target markets, product lines, pricing, and technological focus, both brands share a commitment to quality, durability, and customer support. Whether you choose Toro or Exmark, you can be confident in the performance and reliability of their equipment, backed by the industry expertise and innovation of The Toro Company.