The Rise of Robotic Mowing: Husqvarna Marks 30 Years of Innovation

Husqvarna is celebrating 30 years of robotic mowing in 2025, marking three decades since the company launched its first autonomous lawn mower. What began as an ambitious idea in 1995 has since evolved into a global industry, with robotic mowers now maintaining everything from suburban backyards to large-scale public spaces.

The company’s first model, the Solar Mower, was an early foray into automated lawn care, using solar power to operate independently. Today, Husqvarna has developed a fleet of 31 robotic mowers designed for both residential and commercial use, reflecting the growing demand for autonomous solutions in outdoor maintenance.

In Australia, the uptake of robotic mowers has been steady, with early adopters seeing the potential for these machines to simplify lawn care. Pru Stever, owner of Paull’s Richmond Mowers, was among the first to recognise the shift in consumer demand.

“Around 2007, we noticed customers becoming more interested in automated solutions,” she said. “It was clear that robotic mowers were going to become an important part of the industry, and we adapted accordingly.”

John Hickleton, founder of Mowers Galore, saw the scale of robotic mower adoption during a 2017 study tour in Europe.

“Looking out the train window in Sweden, I saw these mowers in almost every backyard. They were being used in public parks, along nature strips, and even at Denmark’s Tivoli Gardens. It showed just how advanced other countries were in adopting this technology,” he said.

While robotic mowing has been widely accepted in Europe, Australian homeowners and businesses have taken longer to integrate the technology into their maintenance routines. However, the trend is shifting, driven by the convenience and environmental benefits of battery-powered automation.

Over the past three decades, Husqvarna has continued to refine its technology, introducing models with GPS-assisted navigation, app connectivity, and all-wheel-drive capabilities for challenging terrains. More recently, the launch of the CEORA system has expanded the technology’s application to commercial turf management, covering areas up to 75,000 square meters.

Despite initial scepticism, the company’s long-term investment in robotics has positioned it as a leader in automated lawn care. Former Husqvarna CEO Henric Andersson previously reflected on the company’s willingness to take risks in developing new technologies.

“Courage is important, but so is the ability to commit to an idea long enough to see it succeed,” he said.

As Husqvarna marks its 30-year milestone, the role of robotic mowing in outdoor maintenance continues to grow. With increasing concerns around sustainability and efficiency, the industry is expected to expand further, reshaping how lawns and public spaces are managed in Australia and beyond.

Italian fine wines are gaining momentum among Australian collectors and drinkers, with new data from showing a surge in interest driven by value, versatility and a new generation of producers.

Long dominated by France, the premium wine conversation is beginning to shift, with Italy increasingly positioned as a compelling alternative for both drinking and collecting.

According to Langtons, the category is benefiting from a combination of factors, including its breadth of styles, strong food affinity and more accessible price points compared to traditional European benchmarks.

“Italy has always offered fine wine fans an incredible range of wines with finesse, nuance, expression of terroir, ageability, rarity, and heritage,” said Langtons General Manager Tamara Grischy.

“There’s no doubt the Italian wine category is gaining momentum in 2026… While the French have long dominated the fine wine space in Australia, we’re seeing Italy become a strong contender as the go-to for both drinking and collecting.”

The shift is being reinforced by changing consumer preferences, with Langtons reporting increased demand for indigenous Italian varieties and lighter, food-first styles such as Nerello Mascalese from Etna and modern Chianti Classico.

This aligns with the broader rise of Mediterranean-style dining in Australia, where wines are expected to complement a wider range of dishes rather than dominate them.

Langtons buyer Zach Nelson said the category’s versatility is central to its appeal.

“Italian wines often have a distinct, savoury edge making them an ideal pairing for a variety of cuisines,” he said.

The move towards Italian wines also comes as prices for traditional French regions continue to climb, particularly in Burgundy, prompting collectors to look elsewhere for value without compromising on quality.

Italy’s key regions, including Piedmont and Etna, are increasingly seen as offering that balance, with premium wines available at comparatively accessible price points.

Nelson said value is now a defining factor for buyers in 2026.

“Value is the key driver for Australian fine wine consumers… Italian wines are offering exactly that at an impressive array of price points to suit any budget,” he said.

The category is also proving attractive for newer collectors, offering what Langtons describes as “accessible prestige” and a more open entry point compared to the exclusivity often associated with Bordeaux.

Wines such as Brunello di Montalcino and Nebbiolo-based expressions are increasingly being positioned as entry points into cellar-worthy collections, combining ageability with relative affordability.

At the same time, a new generation of Italian producers is reshaping the category, moving away from heavier, oak-driven styles towards wines that emphasise site expression and vibrancy.

“There’s definitely a ‘new guard’ of Italian winemaking… stripping away the makeup… to let the raw, vibrating energy of the site speak,” Nelson said.

Langtons is also expanding its offering in the category, including exclusive access to wines from family-owned producer Boroli, alongside a broader selection spanning Piedmont, Veneto, Sicily and Tuscany.

The company will showcase the category further at its upcoming Italian Collection Masterclass and Tasting in Sydney, featuring more than 50 wines from 23 producers across four key regions.

For collectors and drinkers alike, the message is clear: Italy may have been overlooked, but it is no longer under the radar.

The Rise of Robotic Mowing: Husqvarna Marks 30 Years of Innovation

Italian wines are emerging as a serious contender for Australian collectors, offering depth, rarity and value as French benchmarks continue to climb.