The National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) hosted its Field Trip with Marty Grunder in the Chicago suburbs August 23-24. The event included a facility tour of Mariani Landscape’s Lake Bluff, Ill., headquarters.
Nearly 150 professional landscapers were given an in-depth look at the Mariani operation. Day one started with a seminar led by consultant and speaker Marty Grunder, who used Mariani Landscape as a case study. The educational event was held at the Lincolnshire Marriott in Lincolnshire, Ill., and centered around the key elements to the company’s success.
Mariani Landscape Vice President of Operations Ron Fiocchi detailed the company’s vehicle and trailer configurations. Vice President of Design/Build Lee Kenan and Director of Client Care Ed Furner discussed selling the “Mariani Way.” Both sessions ended in a Q&A.
The opening day ended with a closing note from Mariani Landscape CEO Frank Mariani, who detailed the history of the company beginning with his early recollections of watching his father start the business.
Mariani also spoke on the labor issues many face across the industry. The company has found success by creating career paths for its associates.
“I always wanted to be the boss and I thought everyone was like me, but that wasn’t their dream and each individual has a different perspective on how far and which path they want to pursue, but ultimately helping each associate map out their career path, wherever it may lead, is a fantastic tool to retain people,” said the Mariani Landscape CEO.
On day two, Mariani Landscape opened its doors to the attendees, who walked through each step of the company’s business operation. Each stage featured briefings from financial, operational, purchasing, sales, HR, production, construction and IT leaders within the company.
“I don’t know of any other industry that is as open as ours,” Frank Mariani said. “This event is a perfect example.”
For more on Mariani Landscape, check out the November 2015 Editor’s Note about Editor Marisa Palmieri’s experience touring the company’s facilities and the July 2016 cover story detailing the company’s involvement in peer groups and mentorship programs.
Photo: Mariani Landscape
