My ears perked up when I interviewed Philip Germann for the LM Industry Pulse report. The owner of GreenLawn Specialists in Lewis Center, Ohio, said homeowners are having a hard time getting landscape professionals to return their phone calls. It reminded me of an economic indicator, albeit unscientific, I read about a few years back: the Speed at Which Contractors... read more
The LM Industry Pulse report reveals 2014 was a win—with strong profits and an average growth rate of 17 percent. The word is, clients can’t get landscape companies to return phone calls or show up to give estimates. To Philip Germann, owner of GreenLawn Specialists in Lewis Center, Ohio, that’s good news. “In general, demand is stronger than supply in... read more
unveiled findings from its third annual Houzz & Home Survey, providing the housing market is on the rise and landscape professionals are among the most popular service providers. The annual survey covers historical and planned projects, the motivations behind these projects and the impact of the economy on home remodeling, building and decorating plans. The study yielded data at the... read more
Small-business owner confidence continues to drag, according to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Small Business Optimism Index. The Index gained 0.9 points, rising to 88.9, failing to regain the losses caused by last month’s “fiscal cliff” scare. Expectations for improved business conditions increased by five points, but remain overwhelmingly low—negative 30 percent—the fourth lowest reading in survey history.... read more
I have spent the better part of the first quarter in an airplane, traveling the country meeting with contractors. I’m happy to report there’s good news out there: Prospects for recovery look better than they have in a long time. Contractors I have talked to are increasingly upbeat. They have been able to maintain a positive, proactive attitude even during... read more
For most of us, 2011 was challenging. The economy continued to be sluggish. Businesses struggled with rising fuel and labor costs against declining prices. New construction in many arenas was non-existent. Cash flow tightened. For many, it was a matter of hanging on tight and riding out the storm. The economy remains sluggish. Unemployment in the construction field is more... read more
