As 2024 ends, we can collectively take a breath and regroup for the next season. Any successful year, for both suppliers and contractors, starts with planning and preparation for the future. Here at Central we are no different and are optimistic and very eager for the start of the 2025 season!
The end of 2024 has brought an uptick in opportunity in all segments of the landscape business. Residential ended strong in the 4th quarter. The segment of the business that we saw the largest change in is the commercial space. Projects that had laid dormant for months have now been resurrected and are going to move forward in the next 12 months. This trend is occurring throughout all the regions that Central services and is not limited to specific geographic areas. Analysts are conservatively projecting a 12 to 15% increase in commercial projects for 2025 and the momentum to achieve that growth is already underway.
Over the last 24 months, Central has identified this segment of the industry as the number one priority in terms of growing the drainage category. Additional resources internally, through personnel and education, and additional inventory and capability in the branches have positioned us to be ready for the growth in Commercial Drainage.
What is Central doing to make this happen?
- Expansion of Commercial Services
Central has always had the capability of providing take-offs and quotes for commercial irrigation projects. This capability has now been expanded to commercial drainage projects. We are now able to take plan sets and identify all material we are to provide and create a quote based on these plans. Commercial plans are now able to be shared with Account reps and will be turned around to a full quote. Products like Dual Wall Pipe, PVC Pipe, Chamber Systems, Permeable Pavers and heavy-duty channel drain are all available through your local Central Branch.
- Inventory
As the drainage category is continuing to grow throughout Centrals footprint. As opportunities continue to arise, we are prioritizing drainage inventory in the branches. We have always been the supplier of choice for key residential inventory and in 2025, we are expanding that focus to include key commercial products. We are open and eager to hear your companies’ specific demands in terms of the products you are often use that we do not stock. Please do not hesitate to communicate with your local branch on specific items to ensure we have the stock you are looking for. Central is invested in growing your business and we look forward to aligning with you in the future.
- Drop Ship Ordering
Central’s relationship with key drainage manufacturers has never been stronger. Whether we are providing material for projects or large stock orders, we have the capability of setting up direct deliveries to your yard or your job site. Jobsite deliveries can be set up to deliver on flat bed trucks to make offloading a breeze for your crew. We will continue to provide the same level of delivery service we always had but are prioritizing efficiency to maximize your profitability for your projects. Drop Ship orders ensure you get all the products you need and avoid any delays in the installation process.
At Central, we recognize the unique nature of the commercial business. We now have the infrastructure to be able to handle the individual needs of these projects and are excited to become your partner in your success. Please share your plans, needs and specific inventory with your local branch to continue our partnership of success with your business. We wish you all a happy and successful 2025!