On Oct. 22, The Grasshopper Co. of Moundridge, Kan., a worldwide leader in the manufacture of zero turning radius mowers and grounds maintenance equipment, was honored by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross for its contribution to American export growth. Grasshopper was the only Kansas company to receive The President's "E" Award, the highest recognition a U.S. entity can receive for making a significant contribution to the expansion of U.S. Exports.

“It is an honor to once again recognize the significant work being done by the Trump Administration to prioritize American companies and workers as we continue securing fair trade and a level playing field for American industry,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “With American companies like these awardees successfully exporting to some of the most challenging markets around the world, we can continue to rebuild and reclaim free, fair, and reciprocal global trade opportunities.”

Grasshopper has built a reputation worldwide, turning any large or complex mowing job into quick and easy work. The highly-skilled employees at Grasshopper have made it their mission to build products that are a stable, profitable resource for citizens around the world.

“Congratulations to Grasshopper on a truly prestigious honor and continued commitment to international growth. It is companies like this that prove that great things do indeed come from rural America,” said U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D. “Small businesses face many hurdles when it comes to exporting their goods and gaining market access abroad. Since coming to Congress in 2017, I have worked closely with this Administration to ensure that our companies know where and how to access federal resources available to help with exporting while also working hard to expand foreign market access.”

For a product to become as phenomenally successful as Grasshopper, a synergy must develop that includes fresh ideas from different points of view from international customers. Adapting to the resources at-hand and adopting technology early have been keys to Grasshopper’s competitiveness, growth and position as an industry leader. That adaptability set Grasshopper up for international success, with sales in over 50 countries.

In 2017, the company was selected to represent Kansas on the front lawn of the White House as part of the inaugural Made in America product showcase celebrating each state’s commitment to manufacturing. Several presidents are familiar with the equipment produced in this small Kansas town; the White House has been a repeat customer for over 17 years.

“After decades of work to grow our international presence, this award comes as a great honor to the employees throughout our world headquarters and international importers who have worked tirelessly to promote and deliver the legendary benefits of Grasshopper equipment around the globe,” said Grasshopper President Stan Guyer. “Our vision has always been rooted in relationships and long-term goals, and the decision to enter global markets was a commitment by the entire Grasshopper team to expand our vision and our skill sets. From logistics to finance, from engineering and production to marketing, all Grasshopper employees play a key role in assuring international sales are as seamless as domestic sales. The company’s roots run deep in Kansas, and the expansion of international sales has allowed it’s employees and the region at large to benefit from the ripple effects of revenue generated from outside of the United States.”

The President’s “E” Award was created in 1961 by Executive Order of the President and is the highest recognition a U.S. entity can receive for making a significant contribution to the expansion of U.S. exports.