The 2015 GIE+EXPO (Green Industry & Equipment Expo), co-located with Hardscape North America, attracted a record crowd of an estimated 20,000 attendees in Louisville, Ky. The combined events kicked off with a dealer day for dealers, retailers and distributors only on Oct. 21 and opened for all industry participants on Oct. 22 to 23. Along with an increase in attendance numbers, exhibitor participation also was up with 195 new exhibitors to add up to a total of more than 850 GIE+EXPO and HNA indoor and outdoor exhibits, equipment displays and demonstration areas. Held at the Kentucky Exposition Center, the event encompassed 500,000 sq. ft. inside exhibit space and 19-acre outdoor area for equipment displays and demonstrations.

New product showcase participants included Gravely, with the introduction of the new Pro-QXT tractor and BOSS snowplow with the SL3 w/Ice shield technology lighting system. Case unveiled its TV380 compact track loader, which employs SCR technology, an after-treatment system, to meet Tier IV Final requirements. In addition, Kawasaki Motors Corporation showcased its Mule Pro Series, and FX730V EFI engine, and The Toro Company introduced several new landscape machines.

Caterpillar also presented the company’s 259D compact track loader with suspended undercarriage system providing superior traction, flotation, stability and speed and new hand and foot control options as well as several new attachments geared for landscape and light construction applications.

The event featured a variety of educational sessions and seminars including business management courses designed for owners and managers, and basic and advanced level hands-on training and certification sessions for technicians.