The MNLA Garden Center Tour

Each year our renowned trade association, the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association (MNLA) hosts a tour of member garden centers from other prominent garden center owners in Minnesota. Late last week we were honored to be chosen as one of 5 garden centers in the North Metro for the tour. It is an all day event as the big old bus travels from store to store.

This year the event was well attended and I saw a number of my old buddies; Dave Linder and his son Dave from Linder’s Garden Center, Mike Clarkson from Baileys and a few managers from Cliff Otten’s store, Otten Brothers in Long Lake - among others. The weather was perfect and a good time was had by all. Meg, our store Manager, offered fresh squeezed lemonade and watermelon to all and they enjoyed chatting during their time at Mickman Brothers on our East Patio.

After visiting each store, these garden center operators complete a ‘profile’ evaluation. Just last Tuesday we received the awaited results from these professionals within Minnesota’s Garden Center Industry. A couple of the specific questions asked included input on our signage, plant health, sales staff, retail traffic flow and display gardens. What would they like? What suggestions would they offer? I was kind of nervous…

I have to report that I am thrilled with the results of input from our colleagues; we received top ratings on every single category. We are so proud of the hard work and focus on the needs of our customers that our staff provides to our community!

Some of the comments included:

· The white picket fencing and clear cut aisles helped customer flow and shopping.

· Eye-catching displays in each department made it fun and interesting to browse and inspired new ideas.

· The East Patio ‘entertainment/seminar plaza’ was unique and well done.

· The many events and ‘how to’ classes we offered are an excellent way to keep our clientele engaged.

· The curb appeal from the road and highway is very inviting.

· The staff personnel were easy to recognize with their colorful vests – and they were very helpful, informed and professional.

· The business diversification of our company obviously strengthens the company brand to the community.

· Etc., etc.

Our colleagues also had some helpful comments, including adding some signage to the ‘big red caboose’ inviting entry to this very unique and interesting feature. We will be taking action on some of the good ideas they offered to us!

Anyway, as I said earlier, a good time was had by all. I am very proud of our entire staff and especially Meg McLean and her Garden Center Team. Please visit us soon – we’d love to see you!

John Steven Mickman
President