Introduction:
Landscaping is a rapidly growing industry that has been evolving at an unprecedented rate. Trends are emerging, evolving, and transforming the way businesses execute their operations in the landscaping industry. For landscaping businesses to stay ahead of the game, they need to keep up with the changes and adapt as necessary. Here are eight landscaping business trends to watch out for in 2021.
1. Focus on Sustainability
Sustainability has been a growing focus in nearly every industry, and landscaping is no exception. Consumers and businesses alike are becoming more environmentally conscious, and demand for eco-friendly services has increased. Landscapers can offer green solutions with zero or reduced emissions, use of green technology, and the use of sustainable materials. Landscaping companies can also emphasize the use of native plants, rain gardens, and water-efficient irrigation techniques to support sustainable practices.
2. Increased Digitalization
The digitalization trend has been rapidly transforming how businesses operate, and the landscaping industry is no different. Digital technologies can streamline tasks, enhance the customer experience, and increase operational efficiency. Landscapers can adopt digital technology such as AI-powered software, project management software, and cloud-based services to improve communication and productivity.
3. Contactless Services
The onset of the pandemic demanded businesses to rethink how they offer services. Many landscaping companies have shifted to contactless services to enable social distancing requirements. Consumers are now favoring contactless delivery, virtual consultations, and online payments, and landscapers can offer these services to stay relevant during these times.
4. Health and Wellness Benefits
The pandemic experience has fueled consumer concerns regarding their health and wellness. There has been a growing demand for outdoor spaces that promote mental health, physical, and emotional well-being. Landscapers are now adapting to the trend by creating outdoor spaces that foster these wellness needs. This includes outdoor exercise areas, therapeutic gardens, yoga lawns, meditation gardens, and others.
5. Customer Experience Focus
Improved customer experience is vital for continued success, and landscaping is no exception. Consumers now expect exceptional customer care, timely communication, and transparency in service delivery. Landscaping businesses are taking customer service to the next level by offering personalized services, discounts, and other perks to build long-term relationships with clients.
6. Smart Irrigation Systems
Water scarcity has been a growing concern, and landscapers need to be mindful of water use in their services. Smart irrigation systems help reduce water consumption by incorporating sensors that respond to weather conditions, soil moisture, and other factors to optimize when and how much water is being used. This makes it easier to control water usage, reduce waste, and lower water bills for customers.
7. Use of Drones
Drones have been gaining popularity in the landscaping industry, and this trend is set to grow in 2021. They provide an aerial view of landscapes, making it easier to inspect large landscapes and identify areas that need maintenance. Landscapers can also use drones to map a property, create 3D models, and simulate landscaping designs and ideas.
8. Multi-functional Landscapes
Now more than ever, clients want outdoor spaces that serve multiple purposes. This trend has driven the demand for multi-functional home landscapes with garden rooms, outdoor kitchens, living walls, and more. This approach allows for creative use of outdoor spaces, making it easy to enjoy entertainment, cooking, dining, relaxation, and other activities.
Conclusion:
The landscaping industry is going through a wave of changes, and to stay ahead of the competition, businesses need to adapt. By embracing these eight landscaping business trends in 2021, businesses can improve their operations, provide exceptional customer service, and create unique outdoor spaces for their customers. The emphasis on sustainability, digitalization, contactless services, health, and wellness benefits will definitely help landscaping companies thrive in the coming years.
