Rising costs, labour shortages, and growing sustainability requirements are forcing contractors to rethink how they work. Everyone’s looking for an emissions free future, and the biggest opportunities are in robotics and advanced landscaping technology.
Finding skilled workers is harder than ever. Contractors are competing for talent, and younger generations are gravitating towards tech-driven careers. This shortage impacts project timelines, quality, and profitability.
How robotics helps
Kress RTKn robotic mowers make large-scale mowing simple and efficient. With satellite-guided accuracy and no complicated boundary setup, these mowers operate autonomously with minimal oversight. Contractors can free up their crews for higher-value tasks while still delivering a flawless finish.
Training staff to manage robotic fleets is easier than hiring additional labour, and it positions a business as a technology leader.
petrol-like performance without
fuel costs. Image: Kress
Rising costs and economic pressures
Fuel prices, material costs, and compliance requirements continue to rise. For contractors, that means tighter margins and increased financial risk.
Smart strategies for 2026 include:
• Switching to battery-powered equipment – Kress Commercial 60V tools deliver petrol-like performance without fuel costs.
• Reducing downtime – robotic mowers work continuously, including overnight, maximising productivity without additional labour costs. Paired with the Kress Commercial 60V range, which can recharge in as little as eight minutes, this allows a crew to spend less time waiting and more time working. Together, these solutions keep projects moving and margins strong.
• Planning smarter – digital fleetmanagement apps help contractors optimise schedules and reduce idle time.
Kress Commercial outdoor power equipment (OPE) offers commercial performance with fast charge times, extended runtimes, and long warranties. Built for demanding conditions, these tools give contractors confidence in reliability and cost control.
Investing in robotics and battery technology is not just about innovation; it’s about protecting profitability.
Sustainability and compliance
Being environmentally responsible is no longer a choice. Clients expect eco-friendly practices, and regulations around emissions and noise are getting tougher. Sustainability is now a key part of every project.
Kress leads the way with:
• Zero emissions: battery-powered equipment eliminates harmful exhaust fumes;
• quiet operation: robotic mowers and battery OPE meet noise compliance standards, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments; and
• energy efficiency: Kress RTKn mowers use advanced navigation to minimise energy consumption while delivering excellent results.
For contractors, this means healthier working conditions with less noise, fewer vibrations, reduced Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) risk, and no exposure to harmful fumes.
Embracing green technology not only meets regulations but also wins more business from sustainability-focused clients.
Looking ahead
Contractors who invest in technology and robotics, prioritise sustainability, and adopt innovative equipment strategies will stand out in a competitive market. The key is to act now – explore autonomous solutions, electrify your fleet, and build a culture of continuous improvement.
Landscaping is no longer just about creating beautiful spaces. It’s about building resilient businesses that thrive in an ever-changing world. And this is only the beginning. In 2026, Kress will introduce innovations across its robotics and battery-powered equipment range, delivering smarter, faster, and more sustainable solutions for contractors. From large-scale mowing to advanced fleet management, the future of landscaping is intelligent, efficient, and green – and Kress is leading the way.
Visit your local dealer to explore Kress robotics and battery-powered solutions, or log on to kress.com.