SavATree Company Profile

Background

Overview

Founded in 1978 by Ralph Robbins, SavATree is a leading provider of professional tree, shrub, and lawn care services across the United States. The company is dedicated to environmentally responsible stewardship, assisting both residential and commercial clients in maintaining the health and beauty of their landscapes.

Mission and Vision

SavATree's mission is to nurture and preserve the environment, believing that thriving communities start with thriving landscapes. The company envisions a future where their expertise and services contribute to the sustainable care of trees and plants, enhancing the quality of life for their clients.

Primary Area of Focus

The company specializes in comprehensive tree, shrub, and lawn care services, including pruning, plant health care, lawn care programs, and pest management. SavATree emphasizes environmentally sustainable practices, offering organic options and utilizing the latest scientific research to protect and enhance client landscapes.

Industry Significance

With over four decades of experience, SavATree has established itself as a leader in the arboriculture industry. The company has been recognized by Forbes Home as a top lawn care service provider for multiple consecutive years, highlighting its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Expansion and Growth: SavATree aims to broaden its national presence through strategic mergers and acquisitions, enhancing service offerings and market reach.

• Environmental Sustainability: The company is committed to implementing eco-friendly practices, offering organic solutions, and utilizing science-based programs to promote sustainable landscape care.

• Customer Satisfaction: Focusing on delivering exceptional service to build long-term relationships with clients, ensuring their landscapes thrive.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Tree and Shrub Care: Providing expert pruning, disease management, and overall plant health services.

• Lawn Care Programs: Offering tailored lawn maintenance plans that include fertilization, aeration, and pest control.

• Pest Management: Implementing integrated pest management strategies to protect landscapes from harmful insects and diseases.

Key Technologies Utilized

• Environmental Impact Assessment Tools: Employing tools like Cornell’s Environmental Impact Quotient to evaluate and select eco-friendly products.

• Advanced Arboricultural Equipment: Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment for efficient and safe tree care operations.

Primary Markets Targeted

• Residential Properties: Homeowners seeking professional care for their landscapes.

• Commercial Properties: Businesses requiring maintenance of their outdoor spaces.

• Municipalities: Local governments needing tree and landscape management services.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

SavATree has experienced significant growth through strategic mergers and acquisitions, expanding from 28 branches in 12 states to 58 branches serving 27 states.

Recent Funding Rounds

In August 2021, SavATree was acquired by funds advised by Apax Partners, a global private equity firm. This acquisition is expected to support the company's continued expansion and service enhancement.

Notable Investors

• Apax Partners: A global private equity firm that acquired SavATree in August 2021.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The capital from the acquisition is intended to support SavATree's growth strategy, including further expansion into new markets, enhancement of service offerings, and investment in technology and infrastructure to improve operational efficiency.

Pipeline Development

SavATree's growth strategy primarily focuses on mergers and acquisitions to expand its geographic footprint and service capabilities. Recent mergers include:

• Arborscapes: Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, specializing in tree and plant health care services.

• Mr. Amoto Lawn & Tree Service: Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, offering lawn and tree care services.

• Sussex Tree: Operating in Delaware, providing tree care and plant health services.

• Charleston Tree Experts: Based in Charleston, South Carolina, known for tree care excellence.

• Cordwin Tree Service: Located in Reddick, Florida, offering comprehensive tree care services.

• Organic Plant Care: Operating in Frenchtown, New Jersey, specializing in sustainable plant health care.

• Tree Mechanics: Serving Northern Wyoming and Southeastern Montana, providing premium tree and lawn care services.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

• Environmental Impact Assessment Tools: Utilizing tools like Cornell’s Environmental Impact Quotient to select eco-friendly products.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Employing IPM strategies to manage pests in an environmentally responsible manner.

• Soil Health Analysis: Conducting soil tests to inform fertilization and treatment plans.

AI-Driven Capabilities

While specific AI-driven technologies are not detailed, SavATree's commitment to innovation suggests the potential integration of AI in areas such as customer service, scheduling, and resource management.

Leadership Team

• Ryan Berk: Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Ryan brings over two decades of leadership experience in private equity-backed, multi-unit consumer service businesses across various sectors.

• Daniel van Starrenburg: Executive Chairman. Daniel co-founded SavATree and has been instrumental in its growth and strategic direction.

• Benjamin Stevie: Chief Operating Officer (COO). Benjamin oversees daily operations, ensuring efficient service delivery across all branches.

• Avi Levine: Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Avi manages financial strategies, supporting the company's growth initiatives.

• Amanda Davis: Chief People Officer. Amanda focuses on talent acquisition, development, and maintaining a positive company culture.

• Phil DeGisi: Chief Growth Officer. Phil drives strategic growth initiatives, including mergers and acquisitions.

• Robert Bellio: Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Robert leads the integration of technology solutions to enhance operational efficiency.

Leadership Changes

In October 2025, Ryan Berk was appointed as the new CEO of SavATree, succeeding the previous CEO. This leadership change is expected to bring fresh perspectives and drive the company's strategic initiatives forward.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The arboriculture industry is characterized by a fragmented market with numerous regional and national players. Key trends include a growing emphasis on environmental sustainability, increased demand for organic and eco-friendly services, and consolidation through mergers and acquisitions.

Competitor Analysis

• The Davey Tree Expert Company: A leading provider of tree care services with a strong national presence.

• Asplundh Tree Expert Co.: Specializes in utility vegetation management and residential tree care.

• Bartlett Tree Experts: Offers comprehensive tree care services with a focus on research-based practices.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

SavATree's recent mergers with companies like Arborscapes, Mr. Amoto Lawn & Tree Service, and Sussex Tree have expanded its geographic footprint and service capabilities, enhancing its competitive position in the market.

Operational Insights

SavATree's strategy of acquiring well-established, locally respected companies allows it to integrate local expertise with its national resources, providing high-quality services while maintaining community connections.