The Toro Co. has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire privately-held Charles Machine Works — an Oklahoma corporation and the parent company of Ditch Witch and several other leading brands in the underground construction market — for $700 million in cash subject to certain adjustments set forth in the definitive agreement. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and... read more
Davey Tree acquired LMS, a landscape firm in Houston. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. read more
Ewing Irrigation & Landscape Supply merged with three Kenney Outdoor Solutions sprinkler locations, further extending Ewing’s footprint in the Midwest. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Kenney Outdoor Solutions has served the green industry since 1906 and is a multi-generational, family-owned business. “Growing with Kenney Outdoor Solutions is a great opportunity for Ewing as we enter these new markets.... read more
The National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) created the Landscape Management Apprenticeship Program. The program, which is registered by the U.S. Department of Labor, offers job seekers a path to a new career in the industry through a paid apprenticeship with a professional landscape company. “Apprenticeship programs are the golden ticket to recruiting and retaining top-tier talent,” said Henriksen. “Offering... read more
In previous articles, I have expressed admiration for BrightView’s ability to grow its operating profit margin quarter after quarter, on a trailing 12-month basis. In the 12 months ended Dec. 31, 2018, BrightView had its first stumble. Two events outside its control contributed to the decline in its operating profit margin. First, hurricane cleanup services provided $17.5 million less revenue... read more
