Landscaping news from last month

Osprey Landscape Group expands with addition of EarthWorks

The deal with EarthWorks builds on Osprey’s growing platform, which began with the acquisition of Pacific Landscape Management in Portland, Oregon.

Osprey Landscape Group, a provider of commercial landscape services and a portfolio company of Southfield Capital, has added EarthWorks, a Texas-based landscape services provider, as a strategic addition to its platform. This partnership reflects the continued expansion of Osprey’s operation into the Western and Southwestern United States.

Founded in 1979 by Mark and Mana Chaffin and currently operated by their sons Chris Lee (CEO) and Zac Chaffin (CFO), EarthWorks has offers Texas services like landscape maintenance, irrigation and tree care. With its commitment to client satisfaction, team development and operational excellence, EarthWorks aligns closely with Osprey’s mission and values.

“This partnership establishes our presence in Texas and positions us to accelerate growth throughout the Southwest,” says Joshua Dake, CEO of Osprey Landscape Group. “EarthWorks brings decades of market expertise, a tenured team and an outstanding client base. We’re thrilled to welcome them to Osprey and to continue to build on the strong legacy of EarthWorks in Texas.”

The acquisition of EarthWorks builds on Osprey’s growing platform, which began with the acquisition of Pacific Landscape Management in Portland.

Osprey subsequently expanded into the Seattle market through the acquisitions of His Hands and EarthWorks Landscape in Washington state. With the addition of EarthWorks in Texas, Osprey increases its service capabilities and geographic reach.

“We are excited to join forces with Osprey Landscape Group,” says Chris Lee, CEO of EarthWorks. “Their commitment to employees, customers and long-term growth mirrors our own, and this partnership will allow us to continue delivering outstanding value to our clients and team.”

Southfield Capital, a private equity firm focused on lower middle market companies, supported Osprey’s move. Osprey’s vision is focused on commercial landscaping platform through strategic partnerships with its regional providers.

Sperber Landscape Companies acquires Brookstone Landscape & Design

Founded in 2015 by husband-and-wife team Tim and Ethnie Hawkins, Brookstone provides commercial landscaping to the Seattle market.

Sperber Landscape Companies has acquired Brookstone Landscape & Design, a commercial landscape provider based in the greater Seattle area.

Founded in 2015 by husband-and-wife team Tim and Ethnie Hawkins, Brookstone began as a full-service landscape provider offering design, installation and maintenance services to both residential and commercial clients. Over the past decade, the company has evolved into a primarily commercial-focused maintenance operation.

“We’re always looking for great companies led by great people,” says Richard Sperber, founder of Sperber Landscape Companies. “Brookstone stood out to us from day one. Tim and Ethnie built something truly special. Their commitment to doing the right thing — for their customers and their team — is exactly what we value at Sperber.”

With this acquisition, Sperber expands its service footprint in the Pacific Northwest. Brookstone’s team and local expertise will remain at the heart of its operations, now supported by Sperber’s national resources and operational strength. Sperber ranks No. 11 on Lawn & Landscape’s Top 100 list.

Brookstone will continue to operate under its name.

“This transition aligns the values and ideals of two really good companies,” Tim Hawkins says. “This transition gives us the ability to provide even more advancement and growth opportunities to our people. Partnering with Sperber elevates our vision for employee development, customer care and long-term growth. While our core remains the same, this opens up exciting possibilities for all of us to grow and improve in how we serve, support and succeed.”

Stanley Black & Decker names Nelson as next CEO

Christopher Nelson will succeed Donald Allan, Jr., who has served as CEO since July 2022.

Stanley Black & Decker has named Christopher Nelson as the company's next president and CEO, effective Oct. 1.

Nelson currently serves as Stanley Black & Decker's chief operating officer and executive vice president and president of the tools & outdoor business. He will succeed Donald Allan, Jr., who has served as CEO since July 2022.

Nelson will join the board of directors upon assuming the CEO role. As part of the transition, effective Oct. 1, Allan will become executive chair of the Board, and Andrea Ayers, current chair of the board, will become lead independent director and continue to chair the executive committee.

Allan is expected to retire on Oct. 1, 2026, at which time the board intends to revert to a governance structure of independent board chair.

“Together, we have made numerous achievements, including successfully transforming Stanley Black & Decker into a more streamlined, focused organization with a durable portfolio of iconic brands and businesses that are poised to deliver sustainable market share gains.” — Donald Allan Jr., CEO, Stanley Black & Decker.

"Don has made an indelible impact on Stanley Black & Decker, and we are deeply appreciative of his leadership over the past 26 years," Ayers says. "His tenure with the company and as CEO will be defined by his strong connection to our business, our customers and our brands, along with his tireless work to position the company for lasting success. As the architect of our transformation strategy, Don has been instrumental in simplifying the business and has been a stabilizing force during a very challenging period. Don will be an important resource to Chris, the company and the board as he continues his journey with Stanley Black & Decker as executive chair."

"I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as CEO of Stanley Black & Decker and work alongside an extraordinarily talented and resilient team," Allan says. "Together, we have made numerous achievements, including successfully transforming Stanley Black & Decker into a more streamlined, focused organization with a durable portfolio of iconic brands and businesses that are poised to deliver sustainable market share gains. As we approach the end of our supply chain transformation and look ahead to the next horizon, the board and I believe now is the right moment to initiate this transition. I am fully committed to supporting Chris and the company in my role as executive chair, and I am confident that Stanley Black & Decker is in excellent hands under Chris' leadership."

"Chris is ideally suited to lead Stanley Black & Decker through our next phase of growth. On behalf of the board, we look forward to working with him even more closely in his role as president and CEO," Ayers says. "As a key member of the executive leadership team and a seasoned global leader, Chris has played a pivotal role in streamlining and optimizing the company around our core businesses and strong portfolio of global brands. His leadership, strategic vision, commercial expertise and unwavering focus on end-users will continue to be invaluable to all our stakeholders."

"I am honored to become President and CEO of Stanley Black & Decker, an iconic American company with a proud legacy and an incredibly bright future," Nelson says. "Over the past two years, I have had the privilege of working closely with Don and the leadership team, gaining a deep understanding of the needs of our customers and end-users, as well as the unique opportunities ahead for our company. I am energized by the opportunity ahead and look forward to working together with the board and our teams around the world to deliver on the amazing potential for our brands and innovation in the marketplace. I am confident we have created a strong foundation with our transformation that positions the company for sustainable long-term growth and value creation."

Mariani Premier Group expands into Idaho, acquires MD Nursery & Landscaping

Founded in 1991, MD Nursery & Landscaping is a high-end residential landscape firm specializing in bid/build services and maintenance services.

Mariani Premier Group has acquired MD Nursery & Landscaping.

The partnership with the Driggs, Idaho-based company, establishes a strengthened presence for Mariani in eastern Idaho and the Jackson Hole, Wyoming market. Mariani ranked No. 5 on Lawn & Landscape’s Top 100 list in 2025.

Founded in 1991, MD Nursery & Landscaping is a high-end residential landscape firm specializing in bid/build services and maintenance services.

Since 2020, the company has been under the leadership of Mike Hammond and Brian Haynie.

With approximately 260 associates, the company delivers a comprehensive suite of services including landscape construction, irrigation, maintenance and enhancements.

Their portfolio also features custom fencing and specialized excavation projects for both government and residential clients.

MD Nursery & Landscaping also operates a premier nursery and florist. The retail center, which offers a selection of gifts and décor, serves as a vital hub for the community.

“We are thrilled to welcome the MD Nursery & Landscaping team into the Mariani Premier Group family,” says Bryan Christiansen, CEO of Mariani Premier Group. “Their sterling reputation and deep-rooted presence in Idaho and Wyoming make them an ideal partner for further expansion into the Mountain Region. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to bring together the best in the industry, and we’re excited about the growth and opportunities this collaboration will bring.”

Bobcat Company names Laura Ness Owens its chief marketing officer

Kristen Hintermeyer and Lanelle Vasichek have both also received promotions.

Bobcat Company has appointed Laura Ness Owens as chief marketing officer. In this newly established executive role, Ness Owens will lead global marketing, brand, customer experience and corporate communications strategies for the organization.

Since joining Bobcat in 2003, Ness Owens has held a variety of senior leadership roles spanning marketing, communications, brand management, dealer development and commercial training. Most recently, she served as vice president of global brand and communication and North America marketing. Her earlier career includes experience in government administration, political communications, special event management, campaign management and public policy.

“The Bobcat brand stands among the world’s most iconic, and having the privilege to help shape its journey has been nothing short of extraordinary,” Ness Owens says. “I’m energized by the opportunity to build on this legacy — empowering our talented team, deepening our connection with customers and communities and driving bold, meaningful progress for the future.”

In her new role, Ness Owens will report to Scott Park, CEO and vice chairman of Doosan Bobcat.

As part of this strategic evolution, Bobcat is also promoting Kristen Hintermeyer, who will now be the vice president of North America marketing. A 20-year Bobcat leader, Hintermeyer will steward the Bobcat brand in North America while driving demand for its products and services.

Meanwhile, Lanelle Vasichek has been promoted to senior director of global brand. In her new role, she will lead global brand strategy and stewardship, with a focus on customer experience, brand activation, campaign development, strategic partnerships and licensing.