Author: Derrick Hall, BSU student
Leonard’s Landscape Company was founded in 2016 by Stephen Leonard. Leonard, a local of the South Shore, took the time to discuss how he got started in the landscaping industry, his passion for landscaping, and his plans for the future of his business with Derrick Hall of Bridgewater State University. Continue reading to find out more!
Q: So, let’s start with are you a local to the South Shore? If so, what town?
A: Yes, I’m from Abington.
Q: Tell me about your business. Why did you choose this line of business?
A: We are a landscape maintenance company located in Abington, Massachusetts. I chose this business because throughout high school I worked for a landscaping Company. I enjoy being outdoors and hands on with projects.
Q: When did you start Leonard’s Landscape Company? What Year?
A: I started my business in 2016.
Q: What was it that made you want to start a landscaping business?
A: I realized the sky is the limit.
Q: What was the toughest thing you went through when opening? What inspired you to keep going as you were getting the business off the ground?
A: The toughest obstacles I went through when starting was being limited to equipment and deciding when I could afford to hire help. The smarter you work, the more equipment you can add to your fleet.
Q: If you had to start over from day 1 what would you have done differently? Or what was your most difficult challenge?
A: Create better systems from the start.
Q: What is the toughest part about having a business in 2020?
A: Labor
Q: There are a lot of competitors in the landscaping industry. If a customer was to choose between your business and 3 other local landscaping companies, why would you suggest they at least give you a try first? What makes you stand out compared to the others?
A: We communicate with our customers first hand, no jumping through hoops to communicate with owner. We take pride in our work.
Q: What is the number 1 way you currently bring in new customers?
A: Word of mouth. When good work is done, the customer will pass your name along to neighbors, family members, and friends.
Q: Has internet technology (website, online ads, social media, etc) played a big part in your growth and making your company more successful?
A: Yes, hiring new employees. We often use the internet to help us find candidates looking for work.
Q: Do you feel that internet technology could play a bigger role in your business if you had the right tools?
A: Of course, every year the Internet has something new to offer. Using the right technology help keeps a company organized.
Q: In the future, do you plan on continuing to be hands on or do you see yourself taking a step back and being more of a passive manager/owner? What is driving you to continue working hard in the business?
A: In the future, I see myself taking a step back. I do believe I will always be doing hands on work through. Continuing to grow the company keeps me motivated.
Stephen exemplifies all of the qualities of a successful entrepreneur – a dedication to his craft, an ethically run business, and a passion for success. Leonard’s Landscape Company can help with your garden needs as well as your Spring & Fall clean ups, lawn maintenance, snow removal, and more!
Contact Leonard’s Landscape Company via:
Telephone: 617-827-7292
Email: StephenLMP1@gmail.com
Facebook : Leonard’s Landscape Company