Whittlesey Landscape Supplies & Recycling, Inc.

Background

Founded in 1975 by Clayton Whittlesey and his two brothers, Whittlesey Landscape Supplies & Recycling, Inc. began as a landscaping and lawn maintenance operation. In 1979, the company expanded into a full-service landscape supply yard, pioneering the handling of special mixes, garden soils, rock, stone, gravel, and compost in the area. By 1985, Clayton became the sole owner, steering the company towards specialization in mulch, custom-blended soil mixtures, composts, and gravels. Emphasizing sustainability, Whittlesey incorporated green waste recycling to produce mulch and compost, aligning with its mission to "Keep Texas Green." Over the years, the company expanded its operations, establishing multiple locations across Central Texas to serve a diverse clientele.

Key Strategic Focus

Whittlesey's strategic focus centered on providing high-quality, custom-blended landscaping materials tailored to the specific needs of both residential and commercial clients. The company specialized in producing a wide variety of mulches, composts, soil blends, and specialty soils, ensuring product consistency and quality. By owning a fleet of trucks, Whittlesey maintained control over logistics, offering reliable delivery services. The primary market included landscapers, contractors, and homeowners in the Austin and Central Texas regions, with an emphasis on sustainable practices through green waste recycling.

Financials and Funding

Prior to its acquisition, Whittlesey Landscape Supplies & Recycling, Inc. was a privately held company with estimated annual revenues ranging from $9.2 million to $28.5 million, according to various sources. The company employed approximately 46 to 100 individuals across its locations. Specific details regarding funding history and capital utilization are not publicly disclosed.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at Whittlesey Landscape Supplies & Recycling, Inc. included:

Clayton Whittlesey: Founder and President, who led the company since its inception in 1975.

Randy Miller: Chief Financial Officer, overseeing the company's financial operations.

Blake Whittlesey: Vice President of Operations, managing daily operational activities.

Dakota Smith: Vice President of Sales, directing the company's sales strategies.

Matthew Nelson: Commercial Sales Director, focusing on commercial client relations.

Jordan Henkle: Commercial Account Manager, handling key commercial accounts.

Sam Dixon: Branch Manager, overseeing branch operations.

Bryan Perez: Inventory Control Manager, managing inventory systems.

Leadership Changes

In December 2022, Whittlesey Landscape Supplies & Recycling, Inc. was acquired by SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc., a leading national wholesale distributor of landscape supplies. This acquisition marked a significant change in leadership and ownership, integrating Whittlesey's operations into SiteOne's extensive network.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics: The landscape supply industry in Central Texas is characterized by steady growth, driven by increasing residential and commercial development. The demand for quality landscaping materials has led to a competitive market with several key players.

Competitor Analysis: Whittlesey's primary competitors included:

Heritage Lawn & Landscape: A company with approximately 53 employees and estimated revenues of $10.2 million, focusing on comprehensive lawn and landscape services.

Easy Seasons Grassworks: Employing around 24 individuals with revenues of $8.6 million, specializing in grass and turf solutions.

River Rock Lawn & Landscaping: With 23 employees and $9.8 million in revenue, offering a range of landscaping services.

Burns Tree & Landscaping: A smaller competitor with 21 employees and $4.8 million in revenue, focusing on tree and landscaping services.

Wollam Ag Center: Employing 22 individuals with revenues of $5.8 million, providing agricultural and landscaping supplies.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The acquisition by SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc. in December 2022 was a strategic move to strengthen market position and expand capabilities. SiteOne's extensive resources and national presence provided Whittlesey with enhanced opportunities for growth and service expansion.

Operational Insights

Whittlesey's operational strategy emphasized control over the entire supply chain, from manufacturing to delivery. By producing a diverse range of landscaping materials and maintaining a dedicated fleet for distribution, the company ensured product quality and timely service. This approach differentiated Whittlesey from competitors who may rely on third-party suppliers and logistics.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Under SiteOne's ownership, Whittlesey had the opportunity to leverage expanded resources and a broader distribution network. The integration aimed to enhance product offerings, improve operational efficiencies, and strengthen customer relationships, positioning the company for sustained growth in the competitive landscape supply market.