Web design is another of Foster's interests, and
the company's
Interiorplantscaper.com division is helping him move in that
direction. However, Foster says, " I really couldn't imagine
myself not being involved with the interiorscape industry,
though."
If he could invent one thing, it would be a simple, easy-to-apply,
non-toxic solution for the dreaded mealybug and fungus gnat.
Second runner up would be a simple-to-apply topdressing that would
achieve the look of Mexican beach pebbles, without any of the
downside.
Foster says he has six plants in his home: one 17-inch Ming aralia
specimen, two 14" Sansieveria Laurentii, a Dracaena 'Lisa" cane
and a couple of orchids. His favorite plant is the Ming aralia. "I
love the sculptural, yet lacy, effect that a Ming brings to a
space." he says.
FosterPlants' greatest resource is its employees. "We have been
fortunate to have assembled a group of very professional team
members, who have become not only our employees, but also our
friends," Foster says. |
"The network of industry friends
that I have amassed has also been instrumental in growing our
business. There's always someone we can call up and ask, 'How do
we do this and that?' And they have the answers, it's amazing."
Harlene Martin, Manager of Horticultural Services, has been with
the company almost 15 years. Foster says she's a master at
developing client relationships and has been instrumental in
maintaining high client- retention numbers.
So far, FosterPlants has experienced three turning points. The
first was 20 years ago, when Nicholas joined Foster aboard his
yellow Pinto station wagon, and the duo officially became a "real"
business. "Then again, when Harlene joined us about 15 years ago,
she helped take us to the next level," Foster says. "More
recently, when Richard joined us in 1995, his design and
landscaping background really rounded out our team. Each of them
has been instrumental in taking us to the next level."
So far, FosterPlants hasn't gotten into holiday, other than
poinsettias. But because one of its target growth sectors is
hospitality accounts, Foster thinks the company will push into
holiday any time now. |
Foster has a few
words of advice to newer companies. "Maintain high standards.
Always project an image of professionalism in how you
promote your company. Attend seminars and trade shows as much as
you can afford to. And learn how to cost your product and service
for profit."
"There will always be customers who appreciate quality and value,"
so why waste your time and resources on those who don't? Work on
building and developing client relationships, and do everything in
your power to keep them happy. They will feed you a stream of
referrals, if you do. Also, equip and treat your employees
royally. You'll be glad you did."
-Barb Helfman
May/June 2004
INTERIORSCAPE 89 |
