In a constantly changing economy, reviewing landscape contractors' successes and failures becomes necessary to gain a glimpse at the overall industry's performance. And 2001, with its triumphs and tragedies, was an interesting year – and one that greatly affected many industries.
To gain some insight into landscape contractors’ progress in 2001 and the first part of 2002, Lawn & Landscape conducted a reader survey, asking about growth, hiring plans, new services and equipment purchases.
The results showed that the majority of respondents’ businesses – 61 percent – grew in 2001. Of those that increased, 36 percent grew 1 to 10 percent, 35 percent grew 11 to 20 percent, 10 percent grew 31 to 40 percent and 9 percent grew 21 to 30 percent.
Many businesses – 27 percent – reported that 2001 sales were consistent with 2000 sales, and only 11 percent experienced decline despite the numerous challenges last year brought.
Early indications from contractors indicate some definite optimism about 2002. More than 60 percent reported they plan to hire new employees for this year - at an average of nearly 3 employees per respondent - while 40 percent said that last year's employees will suffice for now. The remaining 17 percent of respondents did not answer that question.
Contractors are spending money on equipment as well. About 45 percent of respondents said they plan to buy trucks this year, 34 percent said they plan to add walk-behind mowers to their equipment fleets this year, 30 percent will purchase riding mowers and 17 percent will acquire skid-steer loaders.
While the bulk of respondents – 72 percent – did not add new services in 2001, the most popular service additions included irrigation, landscape installation, tree services, pesticide and fertilizer applications, pond installation, maintenance and snow and ice management.
The author is Managing Editor of Lawn & Landscape magazine and can be reached at nwisniewski@lawnandlandscape.com.