IN CONVERSATION WITH | By Pro Landscaper

In the latest edition of Pro Landscaper, our very own Sam shares how the company is continuing to evolve with an even greater emphasis on the people, passion and purpose driving the brand forward! 

How does Landscapeplus actively contribute to knowledge-sharing within the industry?  

I can still remember attending a meeting called "A View From The Top" with Paul Willavoys after my first Futurescape at Kempton Park in 2012. It focused on the lack of young people and the skills shortage within the industry. From that moment on, I realised the importance of our contribution. 

Now, we’re by no means in a position to teach people how to lay paving or design a garden – but what we can do is help elevate professionals’ skills when it comes to specifying and installing Lighting, Irrigation, and Water Features. We do this by offering a free Design Support service, delivering nationwide Training Days, teaching at design schools, and - most importantly - ensuring our team has the best possible understanding of our product range to pass on to customers. 

What role do you see the company playing in shaping best practises for the industry? 

We want all our customers to have the confidence and knowledge to specify and install our systems. Whether they gain that through a training session, a site visit, a phone or video call, or the content we provide, consistency and trust are key. There’s an incredible amount of knowledge within the team at Landscapeplus, and we do our best to ensure that every system ordered and sent out includes everything our customers need to succeed. This year, we’re focused on taking our training sessions to the next level by working with the likes of in-lite and Aquascape to bring global experts on board. We’re excited to be hosting the first UK in-lite Academy this autumn - a fantastic opportunity for landscape professionals and a benchmark for the quality of lighting projects in the UK. 

How do you approach building and maintaining long-term relationships with global brands? 

The most recent addition to the Landscapeplus range is ADEZZ. While their products and reputation speak for themselves, what’s most important to us is that their culture aligns with ours. 

That’s why we take our time when considering a new partnership by getting to know the people behind the brand. We have worked hard, particularly in the last few years, on our brand image and presence within the industry, and as a result, we are now being approached by global brands, including ADEZZ and in-lite. Our most successful partnerships are built on open communication and a shared commitment to serving the industry in the best way possible.

What has been the key milestone in Landscapeplus' history? 

This year we are celebrating our 25th birthday which is a huge milestone in my eyes. With some significant achievements already this year, including being appointed sole UK distributor for in-lite and growing the team, I think 2025 will be a year for our history books.

How has the company's mission evolved since it was founded?

Our mission is very much the same as it was 25 years ago: to focus on the needs of professionals working within a garden. Our approach to achieving this is constantly evolving, with our ambitious team adopting new technologies and bringing fresh ideas. 

Having been at Landscapeplus nearly 15 years, it's been a privilege to watch the company adapt and grow and I am confident that we are exactly where we need to be with a fantastic team who are eager and ready to take on the next phase. While our motto from 2011 - "best trade prices, direct to you and great products" - are still true and important to us, we've come to realise that what truly sets Landscapeplus apart is the story behind the company; the people, the passion and the purpose and identity matter just as much as the value and quality we provide. 

Where do you see the company being in five years? 

The easiest way to answer this question is to say we're going to be bigger and better in 2030. While I'm confident we'll do that, what really matters is that we do it in the Landscapeplus way- keeping our focus on our customers, protecting our culture, and delivering the best possible service. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Our key focus in the next phase for Landscapeplus is getting to know our customers- not just professionally, but on a personal level. We want to connect with as many of them as possible to really understand their businesses, hear first-hand how we can support them, help them grow, and what they need to succeed. For our team, success is measured by building long-term, trust-based relationships.   

Click here to read the August issue of Pro Landscaper. You can find this interview on page 42-43.