History

The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute traces its origins to 1952 when a group of lawn mower manufacturers joined together to work collectively on issues being addressed by the U.S. Government. Eleven mower manufacturers chartered a national non-profit trade association called The Lawn Mower Institute on March 5, 1952. The early organization focused on safety promotion. In 1953 the organization created a monthly statistical reporting program for its members and continues to this day.

The organization has grown from its original roots to now representing more than 95% of the outdoor power equipment industry which includes a wide range of outdoor power equipment and products. In 1956 engine manufacturers were invited to participate in the organization and in 1960 the trade association's name was changed to the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI). In 1993 membership expanded to include manufacturers of portable power equipment and in 2001 OPEI absorbed the membership of the Portable Power Equipment Manufacturers Association (PPEMA). OPEI now represents manufacturers of landscape, forestry, utility and lawn and garden equipment manufacturers. Represented products include but not limited to mowers, chainsaws, engines, utility vehicles, generators, chippers, shredders, garden tractors, snow throwers, trimmers, edgers, blowers and power washers.

OPEI launched the industry's first U.S. trade show, the International Lawn, Garden and Power Equipment Exposition in 1984. The annual event is now the nation's 16th largest trade show. In 2007 the event was merged with the trade shows of PLANET (The Professional Landcare Network) and PGMS (Professional Grounds Management Society) creating the first Green Industry and Equipment EXPO.

In 1960 the American Standards Association published the first safety standard for power lawnmowers. In 1961 OPEI creates the first safety seal and makes available to members. In 1962 OPEI became an associate member of the American Standards Institute and in 1969 approved independent 3rd party voluntary testing for mowers.

Today, OPEI is a recognized Standards Development Organization for the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and active internationally through the International Standards Organization (ISO) in the development of safety standards. OPEI SmartBrief FREE daily e-news briefing for dealers, manufacturers, distributors, landscapers and other professionals in the lawn & garden industry.