Not only has inflation and supply chain shortages caused Nature’s Turf to have to work twice as hard to treat customer’s lawns, but Owner Adam Jackson says it’s also impacted how they go about procuring the products they need.
“We’re buying product differently,” he says. “We’re having to shop our vendors more aggressively than we ever have, to make sure we’re getting the best price.”
Jackson notes that not only has he had to shop around more this year and last, but it’s also forced the company to stockpile their most critical supplies.
“We’re having to hold a lot more inventory than ever before as well,” he says. “Because not only is there a price issue but a supply issue too.”
While Jackson says he still thinks it’s best to work closely with a handful of vendors, rather than constantly try to find the best deal, he says doing your due diligence is essential.
“I think it has to be shopped out, and I think even the vendors understand that and expect that,” he says. “Staying with two or maybe three core vendors is best. I think if you are shopping things constantly than you won’t have a good relationship with those vendors. They aren’t going to be there to help you out and serve your business.”
Jackson says supply chain disruptions has made it really hard for the lawn care industry to stay loyal to just one supplier.
“This year especially, sometimes the vendors just don’t have it,” he says. “That’s been unusual. So, one vendor might have Product A and the other vendor doesn’t have it right now and understands you have to go elsewhere.”
When this happens, Jackson says it’s best to be honest with the vendor and make sure they know they aren’t losing you as a customer despite you buying materials elsewhere.
“Operate in a transparent way and always be professional, too,” he says. “You have to find a few who want to see you be successful and always keep them in the mix. Even if they lose out on one particular order still try and continue to feed them some of your business just to keep them engaged.”