The Future of Landscaping: AI, Roll-Ups & Monster Exits

Discover where the landscaping industry is heading next. In this panel discussion recorded live at our Dallas event, six industry leaders share practical insight into the forces reshaping the future of landscape businesses: technology, private equity, M&A, scaling, leadership, and long-term value creation.

Whether you’re building toward an exit, planning your next growth phase, or trying to future-proof your company, this conversation offers a clear look at what’s coming and how to prepare.

Expect to Learn:
• How tech adoption directly drives higher multiples
• What private equity firms actually look for in landscape companies
• Why independent operators may be stronger than ever
• The systems and metrics that increase enterprise value
• What happens after the deal closes
• The leadership traits needed for the next decade

In this episode:
00:00 – Intro
01:30 – Why tech is reshaping service businesses
08:45 – How private equity views landscaping today
15:20 – Modern M&A strategies and valuation drivers
23:10 – Founder journeys: scaling, timing, and identity
33:55 – Building a business buyers compete to own
41:20 – Protecting culture and people through growth
49:15 – Preparing for the next decade of service entrepreneurship
58:40 – Leadership principles that won’t change
1:05:00 – The biggest risks (and opportunities) ahead

Featuring: 
Nick Bartolo, Essential Partners 
Jeff Domenick, KeyServ Company 
Scott Lesak, Kasel Rocks 
Jonathan Pototschnik 
Austyn Roth, Lucky Landscaping LLC 
Mark Sedgley, Granum