MANAGING RISING COSTS

It's promising to see inflation coming under control, though it remains above the 10-year average. The pandemic's inflationary impact has waned, but the FED is still vigilant, aiming for the 2.0-2.5% range, their long-term goal.

However, despite general inflation easing, the tight labor market persists, keeping wage growth above it. Over the past decade, our average hourly wage has surged by 80%, with 30% growth in the last 5 years alone and an additional 5.5% in the past year. Given our labor-centric service, this wage growth continues to shape our cost structure significantly.

Labor Costs Continue to Rise

Working to Improve Efficiencies to Offset Cost Increases

Throughout our long history, we've remained steadfast in our efforts to mitigate rising costs, a commitment we take pride in. Despite labor costs soaring by 80% over the past decade, our diligent work has ensured that the impact on our clients has been only a third of that increase.

Since our inception 23 years ago, we've prioritized training, resulting in the most skilled and efficient team. Through LEAN process planning, we've meticulously mapped and optimized critical paths across all properties, enhancing efficiencies at every turn. Additionally, we've successfully utilized plant growth regulators to decrease pruning frequencies, further reducing labor expenses.

Our dedication to offsetting labor cost escalations remains unwavering, a testament to our ongoing commitment to excellence.

Helping You Manage Your Landscape Asset

As your Landscape Asset Manager, we recognize the critical role accurate budget planning plays in the success of your business, association, or organization. We've always been committed to aiding our clients in this process, providing budgetary information in the fall to assist with planning. Whether it's standard enhancements like barkdust, moss control, or flowers, or one-time projects such as irrigation or re-landscaping, we're here to offer ideas and recommendations to maximize your landscape's value.

Part of effective landscape asset management involves evaluating the landscape and irrigation system for any structural or age-related issues that could impact its value or maintenance costs. Our budget proposals include thoughtful recommendations to modify or upgrade the landscape, ensuring it delivers the intended asset value. Considerations may include:

• Implementing smart (weather-based) irrigation to save 20-30% water
• Undertaking water conservation projects to reduce operational expenses
• Converting lawn areas where irrigation and maintenance prove challenging
• Replacing old, tired, or inappropriately placed plants with easier-to-maintain alternatives
• Addressing safety, security, and hazard concerns to minimize liability
• Implementing pest management strategies for significant pests like Emerald Ash Borer and Crabgrass.

We're currently preparing our budget proposals and aim to meet with as many customers as possible in the coming months to understand your specific needs. Please reach out to us to schedule a meeting at your convenience. We're dedicated to being a part of your team and providing support in any way we can.

Link to Landscape Renovation Services