Small business owners have gone through a lot since 2019. Many issues such as supply chain, cost of goods, and hard to find labor were only exacerbated by the pandemic and unfortunately crippled many industries. While the green industry has weathered the storm fairly well, there are still crucial challenges that you may be facing on a day-to-day basis that could be alleviated through the right partnerships and planning. Below we outline 3 top business challenges heading into 2023, and some solutions.
1. Labor
Whether it is recruitment, retention, candidate quality, training, or the cost of labor, 49% of small business owners report having job openings they cannot fill. And a whopping 92% of employers found it extremely difficult to find good applicants. In addition, the problem appears it will get worse before it gets better, as it is predicted that over the next decade an average of 179,600 additional job openings (between 15-20% each year) will increase for the landscape industry. So, what’s the solution?
First, try and diversify where you are looking for candidates. Does your local college have programs for hands-on labor jobs where you can advertise? Or a job fair where you could set up a booth? If so, consider bringing a few of your top employees with you! Have them explain to prospective employees all the benefits of working outside, seasonally, in an industry with a lot of team comradery, learning, and potential growth.
Secondly, provide ample opportunities for training to keep employees invested in the positions they are already in, or working towards an even more pivotal role in your company. Central hosts training classes on diverse subject matters, with hands-on training in small class sizes to give attendees the opportunity to learn technical applications and ask questions. In addition, there is also opportunities for online learning as well as training (both in person and online) from manufacturers.
2. Time Management and Operations
24hrs in a day never quite seems like enough. And you aren’t alone in this feeling. It is reported that 89% of small business owners must work off-hours to address all operational needs from the work week. It can be very difficult to be successful when you are working in the business instead of on the business. However, there are solutions to help! So, what’s the solution?
Strategic planning, identifying areas for efficiencies, and creating processes can help you overcome the challenges facing us in 2023. Whether it is assistance in building a successful team, streamlining administrative functions, or evaluating your current processes, Central is here to partner with you.
Take some time to meet with your local Central Rep or Subject Matter Expert who can assist you in developing a plan to limit call backs through better products, plus streamline ordering and deliveries so your time is better spent on other business needs.
3. Capital and Cash Flow
Not having enough money to grow your business or enough cash flow to sustain operations is something many businesses experience. We know access to capital and cash flow can be an ongoing struggle. Especially for businesses in the green industry that can see ebbs and flows of revenue during different seasons. So, what’s the solution?
Utilizing a solution focused partner, like Central, will help you get ahead and stay ahead. We offer the best financing terms, have the largest selection of in-stock inventory, and offer a variety of terms so you can choose what works best for you and your business. Being strategic with your purchasing will save money on your bottom line. You can stay ahead by planning ahead. Central offer several solutions to help you grow, and to ensure you have the product you need, when you need it.
- Monthly News and Specials: Get the most current industry information by subscribing to our monthly e-newsletter. You will find helpful business, marketing, and subject matter articles to assist you in making profitable decisions each month for your company. Sign up now!
- Seasonal Early Order Programs: Central offers early order stock up programs across all categories of irrigation, lighting, turf, outdoor living, and ice melt. Make the most of your profits by ordering ahead and ensuring you will have the products when you need them. Meet with a Central rep to review your past purchase history, and make projections for the products you will need as you look ahead to 2023
- Savings4Members: Central if pleased to offer our customers access to this money saving program which helps you unlock special rates on items such as gas, office supplies, shipping, payroll and so much more. The average business can experience a savings of over $14,000 a year! Learn more here.
Finally,
Rely on Central to help, whether it’s questions about inventory management, strategic purchasing, marketing strategy, or business planning. Central has 56 branches throughout 19 states and two countries, and we’re able to transfer products between our locations to make sure you have what you need, when you need it. Schedule a planning meeting with us to discuss your needs—together, we can create a plan that works for you for 2023 and beyond. We stay at the leading edge of the industry and we’re ready to help you grow!