December 2015: Editorial Advisory Board

What’s your prediction for the state of the landscape market in 2016—better or worse than 2015?

Landscape Professionals

Richard Bare

Arbor-Nomics Turf, Norcross, Ga.

“Better!”

Chris Joyce

Joyce Landscaping, Cape Cod, Mass.

“Though 2015 was a great year, the backlog and activity going into 2016 is the strongest I have experienced since being in business.”

Adam Linnemann

Linnemann Lawn Care & Landscaping, Columbia, Ill.

“I predict it will improve even more. Housing in my market area is still booming and folks are spending more on extra, nonessential, services.”

Jerry McKay

McKay Landscape Lighting, Omaha, Neb.

“I’m guessing better due to all the new home construction we’ve seen this year.”

Industry Consultants

Kevin Kehoe

3PG Consulting, Laguna, Calif.

“It’s an election year, so any fixes or changes to immigration or environmental regs or interest rates are unlikely, and that’s probably good news. Right now dysfunctional politics dominates everything from PC culture thugs to a lack of leadership from the top down on the economy. This is a drag and will continue to drag on growth as consumer confidence will continue to decline. Prediction: Interest rates outweigh everything and with cheap money comes spending. It will be a good year but not great for revenue. Profits are my concern.”

Phil Harwood

Pro-Motion Consulting, Farmington, Mich.

“Better for demand, but more difficult for staffing.”

Frank Ross

3PG Consulting, Alpharetta, Ga.

“2016 has the earmarks for being the best since 2007. Cease the moment!”

Jeffrey Scott

Jeffrey Scott Inc!, Trumbull, Conn.

“2016 will be much better for many sectors. The consolidation will create a positive environment for those looking to sell and for those who compete against the big boys. Pent up demand and economic upbeats will help the residential sectors. The economy generally sees a nice bump once the election is settled, though perhaps a bit of hesitancy leading up to it. Overall, for those who are proactive and planning ahead, you will do well. Diversify, stay nimble and have three irons in the fire in all things.

Jody Shilan

From Design2Build.com, Upper Saddle River, N.J.

“Slightly better. The economy is still growing, but rising interest rates will keep that growth in check.”