Update 9/9/19: Rural Lifestyle Dealer followed up Toro for additional information: 

How do you think this decision will impact dealers? 

"We carefully reviewed our retailer footprint as part of the decision and the addition of TSC is generally complementary to our existing channel partners and focuses on farm & ranch customers. Through growing the business, dealers benefit through additional Toro investment in new products and brand advertising that with strengthen the entire network. Additionally, while Tractor Supply does not directly service products it sells, they will work locally to build relationships with Toro servicing dealers to support customers," says Greg Janey, Toro's general manager of Residential Lawn Care. 

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. and BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — The Toro Co. (NYSE: TTC) and Tractor Supply Co. (NASDAQ: TSCO) announce a new long-term strategic partnership. Under the terms of the partnership, Tractor Supply will be The Toro Co.'s exclusive partner in the farm and ranch channel for select models of Toro zero-turn mowers, walk mowers and portable power equipment in stores nationwide and online beginning in spring of 2020. This partnership helps to expand Toro’s reach into the rural lifestyle retail market and further strengthens Tractor Supply’s product offering with a leading outdoor power equipment brand.

As the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the United States, Tractor Supply is continually growing and investing in its stores and product offerings to meet the everyday needs of the rural lifestyle customer. A similar philosophy drives The Toro Co. with its commitment to developing innovative products that help customers increase efficiency and productivity in the field. Given this shared commitment to customers and overall strategic alignment, this new partnership provides a meaningful opportunity for both companies to strengthen their reputation as premier providers of outdoor products.

“At Tractor Supply, we strive to be a key destination for our customers, providing them with the tools and products they need to care for their home, land, pets and animals. As part of this commitment, we are continually looking to expand our product assortment by partnering with great companies like The Toro Company whose products resonate with our customers,” said Greg Sandfort, chief executive officer of Tractor Supply. “We look forward to this product launch and being able to better serve our customers with the Toro brand that has a strong reputation for innovation, performance and productivity.”

“We are very excited to partner with Tractor Supply Co. and for the opportunity to further extend our reach and strong brand to meet the lifestyle needs of rural homeowners,” said Rick Olson, chairman and chief executive officer of The Toro Co. “In partnering with a leading retailer like Tractor Supply, with a strong history and focus on serving the farm and ranch customers, this relationship complements our existing channel strategy and footprint and helps us reach a customer segment that has long been important to us.”

The product line will be available in Tractor Supply stores and online at www.tractorsupply.com beginning next spring.