More than likely it is a simple matter of supply and demand. The kubota snow thrower is a specialty item. Not many are produced (compared to MTD,TORO, ARIENS). There is also a lack of competition so the markup is way over what MTD could charge say..Walmart. Plus you have to buy through a controlled dealer. Let's face it. Its pretty much price fixing. If that kubota snow thrower costs more than $1000 to make I would be shocked. When you figure all of the above in then you get 3k+ prices. Where else can you go if you want a front mounted snow thrower? No other real options.