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Success Profile: Grant & Kyle Faulk

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Market: Weed Man Dothan and Montgomery, AL

Number of Locations: 2

Education: The twin brothers graduated from Auburn University – Grant in Building Science and Kyle in Landscape Design.

Career Background: After graduating, Grant worked for Manhattan Construction and Kyle with Post Properties, both in Atlanta. Three years post-grad they decided to move back to their hometown of Dothan. They had always wanted to own their own business and decided to join forces to open a landscaping business, Lakewood Landscape Group in 2005. In 2010, the Faulks’ decided to purchase Weed Man Dothan as an add-on business.

Family: Grant is married to Elizabeth and they have two kids, Laura and Will. Kyle is married to Melissa and they have two kids, Whit and Libby, and are expecting this fall.

Why Weed Man? Our independent business had reached its five-year mark and we saw that the business would benefit from structured systems. We created our business from thin air and the lack of systems made it difficult for things to function smoothly and consistently. When we found Weed Man, we found a 40-year old business with proven systems and experience. We were attending a landscape conference in Tennessee to help our business and Weed Man was one of the sponsors. Franchising was never a thought of ours before but after the company’s presentation, we knew we found the missing link. Two years later we pulled the trigger and opened our franchise.

What are you most proud of so far as a Weed Man franchisee?

There have been many satisfying moments as a Weed Man franchisee and as an independent business owner.   From a customer standpoint, when they renew their services with us and trust us to care for their lawn again the following year, we take pride in that.  It fuels us to do better and continue to earn their business.  From a business owner standpoint, seeing our team develop is the most rewarding thing.  When you go from doing all the work, to training and coaching others to do that same work it is very rewarding.  It continues to drive us to get better and provide room for growth for our entire team.

What is the key to your success?

We foster a culture of gratitude, hard work and respect.  We expect a lot from our team but we try hard to show them how much we appreciate them.  When people know they are appreciated and respected they are more likely to stick around and be a part of the future.

What’s next for you and your franchise?

We’re focused on growing and developing our team right now.  There are many areas for us to improve and that is where we are putting our energy.

How do you balance both the independent business and Weed Man? That is a challenge that we get better at each year.  We’re learning to set clear lines of responsibility that we can both operate within.  We work closely with two consultants, Jason Cupp and Bob Coulter.  Their leadership and wisdom along the way has been crucial.

Any entrepreneurial advice? The business model and systems at Weed Man work.  There is no need to reinvent the wheel.  It requires relentless energy, money, time and support from home to begin with.  There will be many obstacles along the way but if you persevere and find good people for your team, you will be successful.

If you’re interested in learning more about franchise opportunities in your area, visit us online at www.weedmanfranchise.com or call 1-888-321-9333 today!

 

Weed Man’s Top 10 Quotes to Inspire Success

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At Weed Man, we have plenty of success stories to tell. But, we’ve been in your shoes and look at where we are today – Weed Man is One of the Best Franchises to Buy, as reported by Forbes and North America’s Fastest-Growing Lawn Care Franchises, according to Entrepreneur magazine (among many other accolades). Getting started can often be the hardest part of any entrepreneurial journey; but if you have the will, there’s a way. To fuel your fire, here are our Top 10 Quotes to Inspire Success.

“Opportunities don’t happen. You create them.” – Chris Grosser

“Success is walking from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.” – Winston Churchill

“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” – Albert Schweitzer

“The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary.” – Vidal Sassoon

“Talk and give your opinion, but also listen, reflect and take to heart what other people have to say.” – Jennifer Lemcke, C.O.O., Weed Man USA

“The only thing worse than starting something and failing…is not starting something.” – Seth Godin

“Embrace what you don’t know, especially in the beginning, because what you don’t know can become your greatest asset. It ensures that you will absolutely be doing things different from everybody else.” – Sara Blakely

“Everything started as nothing.” –  Ben Weissenstein

“The most valuable thing you can make is a mistake – you can’t learn anything from being perfect.” – Adam Osborne

“All of us do not have equal talent. Yet, all of us have an equal opportunity to develop our talents.” – Ratan Tata

If you are interested in learning more about the Weed Man franchise opportunity, visit us online at www.weedmanfranchise.com or call 1-888-321-9333.

Happy Customers

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Happy Customers

At Weed Man, we are extremely customer service-oriented. We try our very best at all times, to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations; because not only are we committed to the environment, we are also committed to our philosophy of “Promises Kept.” We offer customers open and honest communication and educate homeowners to ensure they are equipped with the information to help their lawn meet its full potential. The true value of Weed Man’s services is realized only when both the company and the customer are doing their part. But it doesn’t stop there! Here are some helpful tips for keeping your customers happy.

Train Your Employees.

At Weed Man, our employees are the backbone of the company. We take pride in offering ongoing training, to ensure all staff is equipped with the skills and tools necessary for providing excellent customer service.

Look Professional.

Dressing the part is half the battle. If your business doesn’t already offer employees branded uniforms, we suggest considering it! Weed Man technicians, customer outreach representatives and other in-field staff members are given uniforms to help create recognition throughout local communities, and to promote a professional, put-together look. If uniforms are not an option, try implementing a dress code to ensure every employee is meeting your company’s attire standards.

Pay Attention.

It’s imperative that you hear what customers are saying. Feedback, whether it is positive or negative, can help your company improve and grow…successfully! Communication is a two-way street. Saying that, there’s no point in listening if you’re not going to take customer feedback seriously. Point of sale dialogue is a crucial part of the process. Customers will surely use these encounters to form an overall opinion of your business.

Be Honest and Open.  At Weed Man, we pride ourselves on offering customers open communication. If we make a mistake, we own it. If customers are not satisfied with the results on their lawn, we will visit their home within 48 hours to resolve the situation.

Communicate. Stay in touch with your consumers. Creating a relationship with them will make them feel more at ease and with that, the likeliness of referrals and continuous service increases. To stay connected, consider writing regular emails and/or e-newsletters (we suggest about twice a month), create useful and informative marketing pieces and even consider making phone calls to ensure they are happy with the service they’re receiving.

To learn more about franchise opportunities in your area, visit us online at www.weedmanfranchise.com or call 1-888-321-9333.

5 Reasons Why Keeping It Simple Works

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Keeping it Simple

In today’s day and age, technology is constantly evolving and making our lives more fun and certainly more interesting, but at the same time, it can sometimes make life just a little more complicated. Don’t you agree? Weed Man boasts over 45 years of experience in the industry. We are constantly innovating, but our core values and ideologies have always remained the same. The Weed Man system provides protected territories, comprehensive training, exclusive computer and marketing systems, dominant purchasing power and a commitment to training…the roots to our successful green industry business and some of the largest factors that contribute to being nationally recognized by Forbes magazine as One of the Best Franchises to Buy, by Entrepreneur as the #1 franchise in lawn care, by CNBC as one of nine franchises that can make you rich, as well as many other impressive accolades!

How do we do it? We keep it simple!  Here’s why:

  1. Everyone can grasp it. Not everyone is as technologically-inclined as Mark Zuckerberg and at Weed Man, we are well aware of that. The more complicated the systems are, the greater the risk. By keeping our systems user-friendly, we are increasing the network’s chance of success.
  2. It’s easier to duplicate our successes. As they say, if something works, why change it?! Last year alone, Weed Man USA reported over $82 million in system-wide revenue. We must be doing something right!
  3. The results are measurable. In everything we do, our systems have been conceived, tested, refined and ultimately proven to increase efficiency and profitability. We have taken the time to create standardized procedures that are based upon measurable results to ensure success. It’s imperative to know what’s working and what isn’t.
  4. It requires less to achieve greater. Keeping the strategy simple is effective because it allows everyone to better understand the use of our systems, as well as the results, ultimately shortening the necessary training process and accelerating the time to overall business success; and thus, watching the company experience exponential growth.
  5. Customer retention. As written by Harvard Business Review ‘Many brands lead consumers down confusing purchase paths. The savviest ones simplify and personalize the route.’ We couldn’t have said it better ourselves! Keeping the sales process straight forward, makes it easier to for the customer to understand and therefore, increases revenue and helps the business achieve success.

If you are interested in learning more about franchise opportunities in your area, visit us online at www.weedmanfranchise.com or call 1-888-321-9333. We look forward to hearing from you!

Weed Man Beats Out Competition Once Again

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Named One of the Best Franchises to Buy by Forbes magazine

In 2015, Weed Man USA was honored with being named One of the Best Franchises to Buy by Forbes magazine. At that time, the company was ranked 10th, in the Lowest Investment Level < $150,000 category. One year later, Weed Man has made the cut again, but this year, taking 2nd place, out of ten available spots. Having risen eight spots on the list over the past 12 months proves what the company has been able to accomplish. The brand has an impressive track record of success and as we always say, we don’t plan on slowing down any time soon. Weed Man is accompanied by other franchise networks, but none of the company’s competitors were featured on any of Forbe’s three lists.

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Weed Man, the #1 franchised lawn care company in North America, has spent over 45 years building our brand. Our network, comprised of decades worth of lawn care operation experience, has strived to create outdoor green spaces and landscapes for customers, while staying true to the company’s core values; and we have been successful in our venture. In everything we do, there are systems that have been tested and proven to increase efficiency and profitability and by taking the time to create these procedures, we ensure the ability to duplicate our successes throughout the Weed Man network. Accolades such as this one are testament to that.

>> View the full Forbes article HERE.

>> View Weed Man’s Awards, Accolades and Memberships HERE.

For more information on franchise opportunities in your area, visit us online at www.weedmanfranchise.com or call 1-888-321-9333. We look forward to hearing from you!

Myths & Misperceptions About Landscapes

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There are many myths and misperceptions about the importance of maintaining a healthy yard; and if you’re considering starting your own lawn and landscape business, you might want to put them to rest before starting your venture. Weed Man has got you covered, with help from the National Association of Landscape Professionals.

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Owning a Weed Man franchise is not only financially rewarding; you can also be happy knowing you are contributing to a healthier environment, providing families in your community with a safe and fun place to create everlasting memories and so much more!

For more information on available franchise opportunities in your area, visit us at http://www.weedmanfranchise.com or call 1-888-321-9333. We look forward to hearing from you!

Providing Healthy Landscapes is the Root of Happiness (pun intended)

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FD - Healthy Landscapes Root of Happiness

As written by the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), ‘American backyards are where toddlers learn to kick a ball, where teenagers play flashlight tag under the glow of the moon, where pets roam and where busy adults sink into hammocks and patio chairs to unwind. The lawns and landscape that provide a backdrop for these memory-making moments are indeed the root of happiness. They are good for our health, good for our communities and good for the environment.’ And that’s why we love what we do at Weed Man Lawn Care!

Healthy lawns keep our families safe by protecting us and our furry friends from disease carried by insects, such as fleas and ticks, mosquitoes and fire ants. Not only can these pesky beings cause problems on the lawn, they can also harm us and our families. A well-maintained lawn and Weed Man’s integrated pest management programs offer peace of mind.

A well-maintained turf also improves quality of life within our local communities. There’s no denying healthy lawns and beautiful landscapes act as peaceful havens for our families and friends to enjoy. Not to mention, a well-taken-care-of yard also offers incredible health benefits, including less allergies, less stress, lower blood pressure, improved attention and memory and reduced crime rates. Can you believe it?! We can!

Healthy landscapes are good for the environment, too! A healthy landscape cleans the air, trapping pollutants and improving air quality, providing us with oxygen to breathe in. They also act as natural coolants, minimize noise and protect bodies of water by absorbing unhealthy water runoff that might otherwise filter into lakes, streams and creeks.

What makes a healthy landscape? We do! At Weed Man, we pride ourselves on offering superior products, professional and courteous service, open communication and commitment to the environment. Care to join us in providing our local communities with healthy lawns?

To learn more about franchise opportunities in your area, contact us today at 1-888-321-9333 or visit www.weedmanfranchise.com for more information.

To learn more about the essential benefits available from lawns and landscapes, visit LoveYourLandscape.org.

Our Top 10 Quotes on Entrepreneurship

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Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship isn’t easy and making the decision to start your own business can sometimes be daunting. Franchising gives you everything you need to succeed – the network, the systems, the reputation and so much more. All you need to do is make the decision to get started. If you need some motivation to help you take that first step, we’ve gathered our favorite Top 10 Quotes on Entrepreneurship. Enjoy!

“To any entrepreneur: if you want to do it, do it now. If you don’t, you’re going to regret it.” – Catherine Cook

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” – Chinese proverb

“A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.” – Albert Einstein

“Success is how high you bounce after you hit bottom.” – General George Patton

“If you can dream it, you can do it.” – Walt Disney

“Desire is the key to motivation, but it’s determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal – a commitment to excellence – that will enable you to attain the success you seek.” – Mario Andretti

“Entrepreneurship is living a few years of your life like most people won’t so you can spend the rest of your life like most people can’t.” – Warren G. Tracy’s student

“You can’t fall if you don’t climb. But there’s no joy in living your whole life on the ground.” –  Unknown

“Build your own dreams, or someone else will hire you to build theirs.” – Farrah Gray

“The secret to getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain

Take the first step to entrepreneurship today! What are you waiting for? If you are interested in learning more about the Weed Man franchise opportunity, visit us online at www.weedmanfranchise.com or call 1-888-321-9333.

 

Weed Man Ranked #1 in Home Services by FBR

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Looking for a great opportunity?

Every year, Franchise Business Review surveys franchisees across hundreds of today’s leading franchise brands – Weed Man USA being one of them. This year, we are honored to be ranked #1 in Home Services. 

Do you want a franchisor who is honest and ethical?

Weed Man was given an overall score of 93.2%, 13/5% above FBR‘s 2016 benchmark.

What about long-term growth? Is that something you’re interested in?

Weed Man franchisees rated the long-term growth opportunity provided by the business at an 84.2%, 13.1% above FBR‘s 2016 benchmark.

How do our franchisees rate the overall quality of Weed Man’s products and services?

Weed Man franchise owners rate the overall quality of the products and/or services provided at 86.8%, which is 11.8% above FBR’s 2016 benchmark.

At Weed Man USA, we pride ourselves on offering franchisees ongoing support.

Franchisees agreed, ranking ongoing support at 84%, a whopping 18.4% above FBR‘s 2016 benchmark.

For more information on Weed Man’s rankings, conducted by Franchise Business Review, click HERE.

Take control of your future with the leading lawn care company in North America. We invite you to visit www.weedmanfranchise.com or call 1-888-321-9333 to find out why our franchisees continue to give us top ratings, year after year.

Meet Weed Man’s Regional Franchisors

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Weed Man Updated Logo

At Weed Man, out team of regional franchisors is comprised by some of the biggest names in the green industry. When you become a Weed Man franchisee, your personal franchisor is always ready to help, providing you with expert advice and guidance as your company takes off. With the support of our franchisors and corporate team, you will have access to local support, regular business planning meetings, ongoing training and weekly teleconferences to make sure you’re on the right track; and it doesn’t stop there – when you become a Weed Man franchisee, you are becoming a part of the extended Weed Man family. Feel comfortable knowing you can rely on other franchisees for mutual support and advice. Meet our proven, successful Weed Man consultants!

Steve and Chuck Russell
MN, IN, KY, TN & Southern IL

Steve has over 15 years of experience as an active advocate for the green industry and small businesses, while his brother Chuck has thorough industry experience, as well as a high level of expertise when it comes to small business. Together, they provide direct support to local Weed Man franchises. Their varied experience have allowed them to offer franchisees exceptional support in all areas of the business.

Read more about their experience in the industry HERE.

Ken Heltemes
NC & GA

Ken has an extensive background in the green industry, having ran a large, multi-unit franchise operation with Barefoot Lawn Care. With years of small business management experience under his belt, along with his education in Agricultural Economics, Ken is able to provide exceptional support to local franchisees in every aspect of the Weed Man system.

Read more about his experience in the industry HERE.

Terry and Andy Kurth
WI, MN, ND, SD & Northern IL

Terry’s resume boasts a long history both of lawn care operations and franchising. He has extensive experience as a gold course superintendent and also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy. His son, Andy, has been involved with Weed Man since his college years, where he graduated with a degree in Soil Science, specializing in Turf Management and Agribusiness. His advanced technical and managerial experience has allowed him to set a prime example for fellow Weed Man franchise owners and mangers.

Read more about their experience in the industry HERE.

John Sanders
NJ, Eastern NY & Eastern PA

John  has been known as a green industry entrepreneur since he was a teen. Later, during his years spent studying at Yale University, he started his own lawn care company, which grew to over 2,500 customers prior to merging with ServiceMaster (the parent company of TruGreen Chemlawn). With his green industry experience and educational background, John is able to support local franchisees through the various stages of their business.

Read more about his experience in the industry HERE.

Phil Fogarty
OH, Western NY & Western PA

With over 30 years of industry experience, Phil is able to share his vast industry knowledge with Weed Man franchisees across the country. He established the first Weed Man franchise in the U.S. in early 2000, making a great foundation for the rest of the company to grow. Then and now, he offers franchisees his unparalleled team building and management skills, which have earned him repute across various industry channels throughout the country.

Read more about his experience in the industry HERE.

Bruce and Brandon Sheppard
VA, WV, MD, DC, DE, SC, LA, MS, AL & Northern FL

Bruce started with Weed Man as a supplier early on, and eventually went on to help launch the company into the U.S. market. His educational background in Agricultural Science, experience in the industry and current owner of the highly successful Weed Man Winchester franchise, he has been a sounding board for new franchisees everywhere. His son, Brandon, joined Weed Man full-time in 2004 after receiving his Juris Doctorate from the West Virginia University College of Lawn. He plays an instrumental part in developing Weed Man’s brand strategy and promoting the company within his markets. Together, Bruce and Brandon provide all-around support to local franchisees.

Read more about their experience in the industry HERE.

Jon Cundiff
MO, KS, IA, NE, AR, OK & Northern TX

Jon has over 30 years of experience, actively participating in every aspect of running a lawn care business. Since joining Weed Man in 2001, he is an excellent advocate for the company, providing dedicated support to Weed Man owners in his area. Being a member of the Mid America Green Industry Council for over 20 years, he effectively mentors franchisees on leadership, customer service, business management and staff development.

Read more about his experience in the industry HERE.

Jennifer Lemcke and Turf Holdings, Inc.
WA, OR, UT, CO, MY, WY, Southern TX, Southern FL, MA, VT, NH, RI & CT

Jennifer is highly regarded in the lawn care industry, both in Canada and the U.S. With over 20 years experience in the industry and currently Chief Operating Officer for Weed Man USA, she is responsible for training and supporting all of Weed Man’s sub-franchisors. She has worked in every position within the company, from marketing to administration to field technician, providing her with the insight required in order to run some of the largest Weed Man Lawn Care operations to date, which she has done.

Read more about her experience in the industry HERE.

If you’re interested in learning more about franchising with Weed Man, visit us online at www.weedmanfranchise.com or call 1-888-321-9333.