Business Significantly Improves for Landscape Architecture Firms, Survey Shows

WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The worst of the recession may finally be over for landscape architecture firms. According to the latest American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Business Quarterly survey, firm leaders reported higher levels of billable hours, hiring and especially inquiries for new work – suggesting that the spring thaw could also apply to an industry hit hard by the lack of new design and construction projects over the past two years. “However, we hope this signifies an industry finally growing instead of contracting.” According to the survey, 56.4 percent of firm leaders reported stable or above levels of billable hours in … Read more

Arrow Acquires Armand Pest Control

Atlanta-based Arrow Exterminators is pleased to announce the acquisition of Armand Pest Control located in West Palm Beach, Florida. Armand is a full service company, specializing in residential and commercial pest control, termite control, and lawn and ornamental services. This is Arrow’s 94th acquisition since 1988. Company founders Doug and Lora Armand have over 20 years experience in the pest control industry. The family values and similar culture were the main reason Armand owners were interested in a merger with Arrow Exterminators. “At Armand Pest Control, we strive for exemplary customer service and are passionate about how our customers and … Read more

Pepperdine Study Shows 91% of Private Business Owners Would Take Significant Business Risk Vs. Maintain Status Quo

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — A large number of private business owners would take a business risk (91%) vs. maintaining the status quo (9%) and, at the same time, half (49%) said they rely on “gut feel” to make investment decisions according to a study from Pepperdine University’s Graziadio School of Business and Management. The study also shows that most private business owners expect at least a 20% return for investments within 1.5 to 3 years. These findings were released as part of the Pepperdine Private Capital Markets Study, an investigation of the major private capital markets that examines the current … Read more

SBA Recovery Lending Extended Through May

Longer Term Extension Still Sought WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama signed legislation April 15 providing $80 million in additional funding to continue important enhancements in the U.S. Small Business Administration’s two key small business loan programs. The enhancements, first made available under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, include a higher guarantee on some SBA-backed loans and small business fee relief. The SBA estimates the $80 million will support about $2.8 billion in small business lending under the 7(a) and 504 programs. “Small businesses across the country have been able to secure critical financing as a result of the Recovery … Read more

The Grounds Guys Enter US Market with Franchise System

The Dwyer Group has entered into a business agreement with Canadian-based Sunshine Grounds Care and will market franchises in the United States under the brand of The Grounds Guys. Dwyer also announced the opening of a US franchise in Salem, Oregon. The deal introduces the first grounds care franchise to The Dwyer Group’s trades service brands, which include: Aire Serv, Glass Doctor, Mr. Appliance, Mr. Electric, Mr. Rooter and Rainbow International. The Grounds Guys franchise opportunity will offer lawn care, landscaping and maintenance services — a complementary line of business to the residential and commercial target customers that The Dwyer … Read more