Schill Grounds Management Company Profile

Background

Founded in 1993 by Jerry Schill, Schill Grounds Management has established itself as a premier provider of comprehensive commercial landscaping and snow and ice removal services. With a commitment to environmentally responsible solutions, the company enhances outdoor spaces for a diverse clientele, including multi-family residences, retail centers, office complexes, healthcare facilities, and industrial properties. Operating across the Midwest and into Canada, Schill Grounds Management emphasizes a year-round commitment to property aesthetics and functionality.

Key Strategic Focus

Schill Grounds Management's strategic focus centers on delivering consistent, reliable, and expert landscaping services. The company's C.A.R.E. program—Consistency, Accessibility, Reliability, and Expertise—underpins its service philosophy. By proactively addressing potential issues and maintaining open communication, Schill ensures client properties are well-maintained throughout all seasons. The company targets a broad market, including multi-family, retail, office, mixed-use, healthcare, and industrial sectors, offering services such as landscape maintenance, snow and ice management, and landscape enhancements.

Financials and Funding

In September 2020, Argonne Capital Group, a private investment firm, made a controlling investment in Schill Grounds Management. This partnership facilitated shareholder liquidity and supported the acquisition of McCoy Landscape Services, marking the beginning of Schill's strategic expansion through acquisitions. The investment aims to consolidate the fragmented commercial landscaping industry, with Argonne providing financial backing for Schill's growth initiatives.

Pipeline Development

Schill Grounds Management has pursued an aggressive growth strategy through multiple acquisitions:

Enviroscapes (January 2022): A family-owned landscaping business serving Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, adding 200 employees to Schill's team.

GrassCor (February 2023): A landscape management and snow removal company in Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio, enhancing Schill's presence in southern Ohio.

BAM Outdoor Inc. (February 2024): An Indianapolis-based provider of commercial landscaping and snow removal services, marking Schill's expansion into the Indianapolis market.

Pinnacle Landscaping (July 2024): A Columbus, Ohio-based company, strengthening Schill's operations in central Ohio.

These acquisitions have expanded Schill's service footprint and workforce, positioning the company as a leading landscaping provider in the Midwest and beyond.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Schill Grounds Management integrates advanced technologies to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency. The company's tech stack includes:

React: A JavaScript library for building user interfaces, facilitating responsive and dynamic web applications.

Google Maps: Utilized for precise mapping and navigation, optimizing route planning and service logistics.

Progressive Web Apps (PWA): Ensuring a seamless user experience across various devices and platforms.

These technological integrations reflect Schill's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

Leadership Team

Jerry Schill: Founder and CEO, leading the company's strategic vision and growth initiatives.

Todd Pugh: Market President in Akron/Canton, overseeing operations in the region following the Enviroscapes acquisition.

Alex Sulfsted: Former owner of GrassCor, continuing to lead the team in Cincinnati and Dayton post-acquisition.

Jeff Kontor, Jared Winn, and Michael Linton: Owners of BAM Outdoor Inc., now holding active leadership roles in Schill's Indianapolis operations.

Brett Obenauf and Rob McDevitt: Principals of Pinnacle Landscaping, overseeing the Columbus operations within Schill.

Leadership Changes

Significant leadership changes have occurred through strategic acquisitions, with former company owners assuming key roles within Schill Grounds Management to ensure continuity and leverage their expertise in regional markets.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The commercial landscaping industry is characterized by its fragmented nature, presenting opportunities for consolidation and growth. Schill Grounds Management's strategic acquisitions position it as a formidable player in this expanding market.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

Gothic Landscape: A major player in the commercial landscaping sector, offering comprehensive services across various regions.

Ruppert Landscape: Known for its extensive service offerings and strong market presence.

BrightView: One of the largest landscaping companies, providing a wide range of services nationwide.

Schill differentiates itself through its C.A.R.E. program and strategic regional expansions.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Schill Grounds Management's partnership with Argonne Capital Group has been instrumental in facilitating its acquisition strategy, providing the financial resources and strategic support necessary for expansion.

Operational Insights

Through strategic acquisitions, Schill has expanded its operational footprint, enhancing service capabilities and market reach. The integration of acquired companies has been managed to maintain service quality and customer satisfaction.