Going Green

A lot of contractors are attracted by the opportunity to sell green products and services, but uncertain about the size of the opportunity. Should you reinvent your company to take advantage of the green movement? Or is it a short-term fad? Or a niche, not a core business?

You're not alone. Watch this interesting video where Scotts Miracle-Gro CEO Jim Hagedorn talks about how he sees the opportunity presented by natural products for lawncare. While Hagedorn doubts whether natural products is a core business, he does think it's an area where Scotts can make money and is pursuing it accordingly.

Hagedorn probably has the right idea. Pursue the green movement like any other profitable business opportunity, but don't let it get in the way of your core competency. Remember, some customers will pay a premium for green products. Others won't pay more, but will give preference to greener solutions and companies, all else being equal.