Contractors filled the Vermeer outdoor booth at Equip Expo 2025 for “Vermeer Gameday: Live,” a launch event introducing the company’s newest compact equipment. The ML80, ML100, ML130 and ML150 mini loaders made their first public appearance as attendees crowded around the demo area to see them in action and talk with Vermeer team members.
These models join the ML180 mini loader concept, first revealed at The Utility Expo earlier in the fall. Equip Expo marked the first time landscape professionals had the chance to see the concept in person and learn how it connects to the company’s future compact-equipment design.
Vermeer mini loaders expand options for landscape equipment
Bob Shuman, vice president of environmental solutions at Vermeer, opened the event by explaining how contractor and dealer feedback shaped the new lineup.
“These new models give contractors more power and productivity in a familiar platform,” Shuman said. “We’re focused on helping customers do more in a day with machines that are reliable and comfortable.”
Each model provides a distinct mix of lift capacity, horsepower and size for different types of landscape and utility work:
- ML80: 760 lb (344.7 kg) ROC, 25 hp (18.6 kW) diesel engine with a radial lift path for residential landscaping and light tree work
- ML100: 950 lb (430.9 kg) ROC, turbocharged 25 hp (18.6 kW) diesel engine and radial lift path for rental and urban applications
- ML130: 1,270 lb (576.1 kg) ROC, 40 hp (29.8 kW) turbo diesel engine and vertical lift path for larger landscape and truck-loading projects
- ML150: 1,530 lb (694 kg) ROC, 40 hp (29.8 kW) turbo diesel engine and vertical lift path for hardscape and heavy-duty tasks
The updated hydraulic system improves attachment responsiveness, while the operator platform and joystick controls create a more comfortable and intuitive experience. Each machine connects to Vermeer Fleet telematics through the VermeerOne digital platform for equipment tracking and maintenance visibility.
Industry experts share insights on leadership and reliable compact equipment
Before the reveal, Shuman welcomed two respected industry voices who spoke about leadership, consistency and the role of reliable equipment in building strong teams.
Marty Grunder, owner of Grunder Landscaping Company and founder of The Grow Group, shared how dependable equipment influences company culture.
“We have five Vermeer mini skid steers in our fleet, and something goes out every day to remove shrubbery, plant, clear or move material,” he said. “They’re easy to learn and our teams like running them. When your equipment performs, your people perform.”
He encouraged contractors to see equipment investment as part of employee engagement.
“Men and women want to work for companies that are highly leveraged with equipment,” he said. “If your team sees that you invest in tools that make their jobs easier, they stay longer and take pride in their work.”
Paul Jamison, host of The Green Industry Podcast, built on that message by highlighting the connection between leadership and consistent company values.
“The company culture at Vermeer is absolutely epic,” he said. “Since 1948 you’ve had the same values. In this day and age, sticking to those roots is huge, and it shows in the quality of what you build.”
Jamison added that dependable machines and steady leadership help companies grow the right way.
“When you take care of your people and invest in dependable equipment, your business naturally grows,” he said. “That consistency creates opportunity.”
ML180 mini loader concept introduces next-generation design for operators
After the production models were unveiled, attention turned to the nearby ML180 mini loader concept machine. First revealed at The Utility Expo, the ML180 demonstrates where Vermeer is heading with operator comfort and machine control.
“This machine represents where we’re heading next,” Shuman said. “Operator comfort is a big focus. We’re exploring ways to reduce fatigue, increase travel speed between jobsite tasks and integrate new technology that helps operators be more productive throughout the day.”
The concept’s suspension-inspired platform and enhanced hydraulic cooling drew attention from attendees who stayed after the presentation to see its design features up close.
Grunder said the added lift capacity and comfort reflect how contractors really work.
“When you can handle larger loads without switching machines, you gain efficiency on the jobsite,” he said. “It’s a thoughtful design that responds to what operators need.”
Jamison added that the concept shows how Vermeer continues to develop products with direct input from its customers.
“You can see that this company listens,” he said. “You take feedback, make improvements and then bring them back to the people who run the machines every day.”
Contractors crowd the booth to experience the new Vermeer mini loaders
After the presentation, the Vermeer booth stayed packed as contractors lined up to step onto the operator platforms and take a turn behind the controls of the new mini loader lineup. The outdoor demo area was constantly active as attendees watched the machines run through demonstrations and tested the responsiveness of the controls for themselves.
Many commented on how smooth the travel felt and how easy it was to operate the joysticks and attachment functions. Several noted that the operator’s station was more comfortable and stable than they expected for a machine that size.
Throughout the afternoon, Vermeer team members and dealers stayed busy answering questions about lift capacity, attachment versatility and service access. Conversations around the booth focused on how the lineup fits the daily work of landscape professionals who need compact, capable machines for a variety of tasks.
The excitement carried through the rest of the show as more attendees stopped by for a closer look, with many saying the lineup added new energy to the mini loader category.
To learn more about the Vermeer mini loader family and available attachments, contact your local Vermeer dealer.
Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes in engineering, design and specifications; add improvements; or discontinue manufacturing at any time without notice or obligation. Equipment shown is for illustrative purposes only and may display optional accessories or components specific to their global region.
The Vermeer ML180 mini loader is not currently available for sale. Vermeer is focused on market research and showcasing what the future could look like for the mini track loader segment.
Please contact your local Vermeer dealer for more information on machine specifications. Vermeer and the Vermeer logo are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries.
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