Building on the successful 2013 launch of its first All-Wheel Drive (AWD) walk mower, Husqvarna -- the world’s largest producer of outdoor power equipment -- announces three new additions to its AWD lineup, offering dealers and users high-quality options at a variety of price points.

 The new Husqvarna AWD models are:

•       The HU675AWD, powered by a 675 Kohler engine, features a heavy-duty steel 2-in-1 cutting deck, a straight over mold bail system, an auto-choke and a mulch and rear bagging system. Its manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) is $299.95.

•       The HU725AWD powered by a variable speed 725ex with Ready Start auto-choke Briggs & Stratton engine, features a heavy-duty steel 3-in-1 cutting system allowing it to bag, mulch and side discharge. Its MSRP is $399.95.

•       The HU725AWD/BBC features SingleStartTM which adds a blade brake clutch (BBC) feature to the HU725AWD model allowing the user to stop the blade to pick up debris or empty the bag, and a simple lever engagement turns the blade back on without needing to restart the mower. Its MSRP is $449.95

The full line up of Husqvarna AWD walk mowers will be available beginning spring 2014.

Like the original HU800AWD model (with an MSRP of $499.95), each new Husqvarna AWD walk mower is designed to provide users with balance and power to all four wheels in hilly, uneven terrain and tough mowing conditions.*  Each features a unique drive system and dual transmission, premium wheels with aggressive tread patterns to provide additional traction and maneuverability, a premium quick pin 4-point adjustment for level cutting height and a water hose connector for easy cleaning of the deck.

“Based on the positive feedback we received after the launch of the original AWD mower, we wanted to make the innovative technology widely available at different price points,” said Nick Schomer, Walk-Behind Product Manager, Husqvarna. “With three new pricing options and a variety of features, a wider range of users will be able to enjoy the benefits of All-Wheel Drive mowing technology with the launch of the new line.”

See Husqvarna’s AWD mowers in action in their new 30-second television commercial, which will run beginning February 23rd during the NASCAR Daytona race.lamo Group Inc. announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire the operating units of Specialized Industries LP. This includes the businesses of Super Products LLC, Wausau-Everest LP and Howard P. Fairfield LLC. Super Products is a manufacturer of vacuum trucks and related equipment, parts and service, which is complementary to Alamo’s VacAll operation. Wausau-Everest is a manufacturer of snow removal equipment which is complementary to Alamo’s Tenco and Henke operations. And, Howard P. Fairfield is a dealer/distribution operation primarily in the New England area. Together the three operations had net sales of approximately $139 million in the fiscal year ending December 31, 2013. Total consideration for the purchase is approximately $186 million, subject to certain adjustments. The purchase is anticipated to close within 45 days and is subject to receiving regulatory approval and completion of other pre-closing requirements.

Super Products and Wausau Everest are based in New Berlin, Wis., and Howard P. Fairfield is based in Skowhegan, Maine. The president and CEO of Specialized is Rod Winter and he will continue as head of the operations, which, upon completion of the transaction, will become part of Alamo's North American Industrial Division led by Jeff Leonard.

Ron Robinson, Alamo Group's president and chief executive officer commented, “These are excellent, well run operations that complement Alamo’s existing equipment lines. This acquisition will broaden our product offering and enhance our market position in both vacuum trucks and snow removal which are areas we have targeted for expansion. This is a very positive move for our company.”

Eric L. Blum, chairman and founder of ELB Capital, which is the managing partner for Specialized Industries added, “We feel Alamo is a good strategic fit for our companies and they are dedicated to continuing the development that has been so successful under our ownership.” 

In anticipation of this event, Alamo is expanding its revolving credit facility and increasing its line of credit from $100 million to $250 million to accommodate this acquisition and meet the ongoing needs of the combined entities.