Read more about these NALP members and partners in the news.
STIHL Names New Vice President of Marketing
Eric Bjorling has been named the vice president of marketing of STIHL, Inc. He will be responsible for leading the development of U.S. brand and retail marketing communications strategies, including national advertising programs, public relations, merchandising, and national brand programs.
Bjorling spent over 18 years with the Trek Bicycle Corporation in various marketing positions. He has a bachelor of science degree in consumer science – business affairs from the University of Wisconsin.
“We are excited to welcome Eric to Team STIHL,” says Chris Keffer, president and CEO of STIHL, Inc. “It is an exciting time at STIHL as we expand our range of product offerings to include wheeled goods and even more battery-powered tools. Eric’s wealth of experience and innovative mindset will undoubtedly contribute to our continued success. We look forward to the expertise he will bring to our dynamic team.”
Bjorling succeeds Ken Waldron, who is retiring. Waldron spent over 26 years with STIHL as the director of marketing and later as vice president of marketing.
Mariani Premier Group Acquires Botanica Landscaping and Garden Industries
Mariani Premier Group marks their 17th acquisition with the addition of Botanica Landscaping and Garden Industries, based in Loxahatchee, Florida.
Ken Lieber and Peter Hawrylewicz founded Botanical Landscaping in 2006 and added their nursery operation, Garden Industries, in 2008. Botanica offers comprehensive professional services, including landscape installation, maintenance and enhancements to high-net-worth private residences. Garden Industries provides plant materials for Botanica’s installation projects and sells materials via wholesale channels to commercial businesses and other landscape companies.
Botanica is known for their top-tier clients in fashion, finance, and high-growth industries. They have also cultivated strong relationships with builders and architects in the region.
“It is my pleasure to welcome the Botanica Landscaping and Garden Industries team to the Mariani family,” says Frank Mariani, Mariani Premier Group chairman. “This marks a momentous milestone for us as we expand in the Florida market, and we look forward to the valuable contributions Botanica will make to our collective success.”
Steel Green Manufacturing Announces President
Brent Mills, co-founder of Steel Green Manufacturing, has been named president of the company. In this new role, he will take on the day-to-day operations and lead Steel Green’s mission to provide high-quality, American-made equipment to lawn care, sports turf and golf course professionals.
“Brent has been part of the team since the start, and the other founders and I feel that this new role is the right fit,” says Matt Smith, Steel Green co-founder and sales manager. “Since we started Steel Green, Brent has always been a leader focused on our partners and customers, and we’re proud to say that Brent will officially be moving us forward as president.”
Mills has served in all facets of the industry, including as an assembly technician, parts specialist, and service manager, before co-founding Steel Green alongside Michael Floyd, Scot Jones, Craig Conyer, and Matt Smith in 2018.
Ewing Opens Third Location in Jacksonville, Florida
Ewing Outdoor Supply has grown its presence in Florida with a third location in Jacksonville. This is Ewing’s 16th location in the state.
This new store is located on six acres off the Interstate 295 beltway near the Jacksonville International Airport.
“With this new location, Ewing can better serve customers in northern and northeastern Duval County, Nassau County and Fernandina Beach as we build on the exemplary service provided by our branches in southeastern and western Duval County,” says Michael McGibeny, Florida North regional manager. “We’ve served green industry contractors for more than 100 years, and we’re proud that our customers think of us as a business partner rather than a supplier. They know they can lean on us for everything they need to get the job done.”
McHale Landscape Design Announces Mandy Moreland as Certified Arborist
McHale Landscape Design announced recently that their director of operations and nursery management, Mandy Moreland, has recently earned the International Society of Arboriculture’s Certified Arborist designation.
The ISA Certified Arborist credential signifies Moreland’s unwavering commitment, dedication, and comprehensive knowledge in the field of arboriculture. This accomplishment sets her apart as a professional with the expertise required to excel in the industry. The ISA Certified Arborist program is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), underscoring its compliance with ISO 17024 standards for certification bodies.
Moreland underwent rigorous training and demonstrated proficiency in all facets of arboriculture. For the last 20 years, she has worked her way up the ladder at McHale, from plant purchaser to operations coordinator.
“I’m lucky I landed where I am,” Moreland says. “McHale has been an amazing place to grow and evolve not only my experience in the industry but my entire career. Regardless of gender, or age, or race, this is a firm that gives their team equal opportunities to grow.”
