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Contents CULTIVATING SUCCESS THROUGH
Innovation 5
Evolving to Meet the Changing Consumer
8 How Does Your Garden Grow? 10 Spring for a Great Lawn 12 A Winning Formula 13 There’s an App for That 14 The Pollinator Promise NURTURING EMPLOYEE
Health & Wellness 17 The Culture of Living Well 20 Center of Wellness 21 Give Back to Gro GROWING GOOD IN
Local Communities 23 Making the Grass Greener
27 Empowering Youth 28 Environmental Enhancement 30 Nurturing the Home Turf
62 E. Broad St. P.O. Box 1289 Columbus, Ohio 43216 614-888-4567; columbusmonthly.com
14111 Scottslawn Road, Marysville, Ohio 43041 800.233.5296 customer.service.marysville@scotts.com
SVP, Chief Communications Officer; President, the Scotts Miracle-gro foundation Jim King
Corporate & Community Partnerships Su Lok
Chief Digital & Marketing Services Officer Patti Ziegler
Integrated Marketing & Communications Stephanie Werner
VP & GM, Lawns Josh Peoples Corporate Communications Tom Matthews
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eCommerce
Matt Taylor
Sales & Marketing
Creative Marketing Tracey Bandy Cover Photo by Colin McGuire Photographs
President Bradley M. Harmon
Art Director Alyse Kordenbrock
Publisher Ray Paprocki
Contributors Chelsea Castle, Steph Greegor, Sam Kayuha, Abernathy Miller, Jessica Salerno, Chelsea Savage, Peter Tonguette
Custom projects manager Emma Frankart Henterly Production/Design Director Craig Rusnak
ScottsMiracle-Gro 150th Anniversary is published by GateHouse Media, LLC. All contents of this magazine are copyrighted Š2018, all rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without written permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited.
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Celebrating 150 years and growing This year marks a major milestone for The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company. It was 150 years ago that Orlando McLean Scott—upon his return from the Civil War—opened a small hardware store in Marysville, Ohio, from which he sold grass seed for the agricultural industry and proclaimed that “farmers need and shall have clean, weed-free fields.” That humble start blossomed into what our company is today—the global leader in products for lawn and gardening care, as well as hydroponic growing through our wholly owned subsidiary, Hawthorne Gardening Company. We manufacture, market and sell brands ranging from Scotts®, Miracle-Gro®, Ortho®, Roundup® and Tomcat® to Gavita® Horticultural Lighting, General Hydroponics® and Botanicare®, among others. While today we have more than 40 plants and locations throughout North America, our corporate offices are just around the corner from where it all began. In fact, the original Scotts store continues to operate in downtown Marysville. Being in business for 150 years is nothing short of amazing. By some estimates, barely 11 percent of publicly traded companies in the U.S. are 100 years old. Our success is tied to many things: Willingness to reinvent ourselves as times change, commitment to quality, focus on innovation and devotion to the customers and consumers who count on us. Yet, at the very core of our success are those who make it happen—our employees. More than 5,500 “associates” work for ScottsMiracle-Gro across North America in a company culture empowering them to succeed and grow in their own careers. Every day, our associates deliver the very best products and solutions to help people thrive on their own piece of the Earth. And
we accomplish it all by retaining our strong ties to Central Ohio, a place we’re proud to call home. Our incredible story has stood the test of time, and we’re honored to have this opportunity to share it with you as we prepare for the next 150 years. Sincerely,
Jim Hagedorn CEO and Chairman
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Innovation CULTIVATING SUCCESS THROUGH
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Evolving TO MEET THE
Changing Consumer
Growing with the newest generation of lawn owners and gardeners The landscape is changing when it comes to lawns and gardens, fueled in many respects by generational differences. Baby boomers, for example, have a view of lawn care and gardening that varies greatly from that of millennials. ScottsMiracle-Gro is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap and deliver lawn and garden solutions that meet the needs—and interests —of both. “Different generations have different sensibilities when it comes to their interests in gardening and how they might approach lawn care,” says the company’s Chief Digital and Marketing Services Officer Patti Ziegler. “This has created tremendous opportunities for us. We continue to serve those who know us and rely upon us to help them enjoy their greenspaces, while at the same time evolving for the up-and-coming homeowner or gardener. It’s all about providing products and solutions that align with what the consumer cares about most, regardless of where he or she might fall on the generational spectrum.” Millennials, Ziegler says, represent the next big generation of lawn and garden consumers. They are today’s 21- to 37-year-olds who now surpass the population of baby boomers. Here are some examples of their headspace, based on research conducted or obtained by ScottsMiracle-Gro: • They care about space and how best to maximize it, both inside the home and out. The formal dining room might lend way to the kids’ playroom, or even an indoor gardening area. • Food security is important—they want to know where their food comes from and how it was grown.
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• The enjoyment of food is an experience in and of itself—hence the “foodie” concept. • Gardening to a millennial is less about exercise—which is important to a baby boomer—and more a form of relaxation, a break in their busy week or day. • Millennials love their hobbies, and that passion often can be channeled into gardening. On the other hand, they do not feel they have sufficient time for lawn and garden care. • Millennials are more likely to have herb gardens, while older generations are more likely to have flower gardens. • Home ownership is on the rise for millennials, who are placing pride and importance on creating and maintaining healthy and attractive outdoor areas. By gaining this deep understanding of millennials and what drives them, ScottsMiracleGro has been able to focus its research and development efforts—as well as its marketing initiatives—in ways to nurture a new generation of loyal customers. “This manifests itself in many ways,” Ziegler says. “We’re giving them more of what they need to be successful with their lawns and gardens, in less time and on their terms.”
Consider the company’s aggressive push into organics through products like Nature’s Care® organic soils and Ortho® bug products with essential oils. ScottsMiracle-Gro is also partnering with Bonnie Plants®, the leader in vegetable and herb plants, and moving into “Foodie Fresh” varieties, a precursor to further innovation in this space. Together, these innovations simplify the gardening experience and make success even easier to achieve.
Innovative firsts
“This plays into that growing interest in edibles and desire by millennials to know where their food comes from,” Ziegler says. “Plus, we’re making it easier to achieve success, whether you want a greener and thicker lawn or a bountiful harvest.”
Dwight Scott, son of Scotts Lawn Seed founder O.M. Scott, realized the importance of wellcared-for lawns in American life. Because of his vision, Scotts Lawn Seed began offering weed-free “clean seed” mail orders to replace the haymow sweepings that had been used to seed lawns until this point. Because traditional weed control products did not yet exist, this change offered an immediate solution to weed-choked lawns.
It just so happens that millennials are a generation that has very little training or education in lawn and garden. But when they do become homeowners, research shows they place a tremendous amount of pride on a healthy lawn and garden. To help, ScottsMiracle-Gro is leading the way by leveraging technology and digital channels to deliver tips and educational information, from planting to maintenance and effective water use.
Moments of Growth
1868
An industry is born as Orlando McLean Scott founds his company to help farmers attain weed-free fields.
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Already one of the country’s best distributors of farm equipment, O.M. Scott begins selling farm seed by mail.
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Innovative firsts After incorporating as O.M. Scott & Sons Co. in 1914, the company released the first high-performance turf varieties for lawns in 1916. These varieties used natural selection-style breeding to enhance color, resistance to disease and pests, and tolerance against wear-and-tear, among other traits.
Hydroponics—the process of growing plants in water—can eliminate the obstacles. And the reality is, there is an appetite among consumers for more hydroponic gardening, as research shows that nearly 40 percent of U.S. households are extremely or very interested in it. But that same research also indicates people often don’t know where to start or where to buy hydroponic products.
“There will always be in-store experts available to help consumers be successful gardeners or guide their projects,” Ziegler says. “But we also recognize that consumers—particularly millennials—appreciate technology and digital support. That’s why we are innovating with apps to provide expertise at their fingertips and are doing even more with social media to express our brands.” (You can read more about the ScottsMiracle-Gro technology solutions on Page 13.) Indoor gardening also is on the rise with millennials and core consumers alike, with interest growing among those who don’t currently keep indoor plants. What's holding them back? The two biggest obstacles are lack of adequate space and lighting.
1907
ScottsMiracle-Gro is taking indoor gardening and hydroponics mainstream with countertop hydroponic gardening systems—such as those under the AeroGarden® brand—available in many retail stores and online. It also has larger systems available and has even broadened its reach to the commercial hydroponics growers through its subsidiary Hawthorne Gardening Company.
Innovative firsts In 1928, O.M. Scott & Sons Co. recognized that grass has special nutritional needs by launching the firstever fertilizer designed specifically for lawns— Turf Builder. It fostered both instant and sustained greening using a combination of quick- and slowrelease formulas.
“There really are two big takeaways,” Ziegler says. “First, across all age groups, people are very interested in gardening and lawn care. Nearly half of all U.S. households participate in food gardening alone. Second, consumers have differing attitudes and motivations when it comes to lawns and gardens based on their generation. Our goal is to serve the core consumers of today while doing the right things to cultivate that next generation of consumers.” m
O.M.’s son, Dwight Scott, recognizes the importance of lawns in the American lifestyle and encourages his father to sell grass seed by mail.
1914
The O.M. Scott & Sons Company is incorporated.
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How does your
Garden Grow?
Indoors or out, edibles or aesthetics—ScottsMiracle-Gro makes gardening easy. Do-it-yourself gardening, indoors and out, has been on a steady rise, thanks in part to millennials, foodies and indoor gardeners. According to the National Gardening Market Research Co., 74 percent of U.S. households participated in food or flower gardening in 2016. Edible gardening is one of the fastestgrowing areas, with 35 percent of households growing food at home—a 17 percent increase over the last five years. It’s against this backdrop that ScottsMiracleGro is delivering robust products focused on three key areas: • Edibles and organics • Indoor gardening • Simple solutions
1924
Scotts provides customers added convenience by supplementing its mail-order business with retail sales.
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“We’re meeting the diverse needs of today’s gardeners while innovating in ways that empower younger generations to experience the benefits of gardening,” says Michael Sutterer, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Gardens business. ScottsMiracle-Gro made its mark in edibles and organics with its Nature’s Care organic soils and nutrients and by branching into live goods through a partnership with Bonnie Plants, the leader in vegetable and herb plants. Miracle-Gro and Bonnie Plants are co-merchandising products to provide consumers with a total solution to gardening and a more bountiful harvest. The company is also reaching up-and-coming gardeners. This year, it will launch in select
1928
Recognizing lawns’ specific nutritional needs, Scotts releases the first fertilizer designed specifically for grass: Turf Builder.
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eases lder.
markets a Foodie Fresh line of vegetables and herbs that produces colorful and flavorfilled varieties such as Meatball Eggplant and Pinot Noir Sweet Pepper. It also will partner with Back to the Roots®—maker of simple indoor gardening kits to grow organic mushrooms, herbs and vegetables at home—to merchandise and sell products at The Home Depot and other retailers.
whether your interest lies in growing tomatoes or basil or petunias,” Sutterer says.
Indoor gardening is redefining the traditional definition of “gardening.” Millennials are leading the charge, as ScottsMiracle-Gro research shows they are engaging in indoor planting at three times the rate of baby boomers. Their motivations differ from those who grow outside, as décor and year-round growing are important.
The company is reducing the fear factor. For example, raised bed gardening has increased since 2014, according to the National Gardening Market Research Co., but ScottsMiracle-Gro found consumers often are unsure which soils to use. It responded with the successful 2017 launch of Miracle-Gro soil specifically for raised beds.
ScottsMiracle-Gro is innovating with hydroponic growing systems for indoor gardening, such as countertop water-based systems under the AeroGarden brand or larger systems under its Black Magic® and Root Farm™ brands.
Innovative firsts Miracle-Gro developed the first water-soluble plant food for consumers, designed to feed plants as they’re being watered; this revolutionized how consumers fed house plants and gardens.
Miracle-Gro has bigger plans to give consumers confidence. “In 2018, we’re going to guarantee success for gardeners,” Sutterer says. “For the first time ever, we’re communicating to consumers that they can get up to three times the harvest or three times the blooms by planting their favorite plants in Miracle-Gro soil and feeding them with Miracle-Gro plant food. It’s a simple solution to guarantee success, and it’s backed up by rigorous testing by our research and development team.” m
“When it comes to simple solutions, we are making it easy for consumers to be successful. Our research shows that a ‘fear of failure’ is a key barrier to participation in gardening,
1940
Sales reach a record high, putting the company in the “$1 million club.”
1940
The Scotts Spreader emerges to ensure even, accurate application of product and better lawn results.
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Spring for a
Great Lawn Simplifying lawn care and maintenance for consumers ScottsMiracle-Gro has long been known for fertilizers and grass seed that have helped consumers to maintain lush, green lawns. After 150 years, the company retains its market leadership. Among the key drivers to its success: A commitment to high-quality, dependable products, coupled with consistent investments in innovation and lawn care products. “We’re focused on providing simple, easyto-use solutions that enable consumers to achieve a great lawn on their terms,” says Josh Peoples, Vice President and General Manager of the Lawns business. “That goes for consumers who have long relied upon our brands, as well as those who are new to home ownership and the whole notion of effective lawn care.” Peoples says company research has shown that a barrier to consumers taking a more proactive approach with their lawns lies in potential confusion over which products to use and when, as well as a perception that it can be time-consuming and costly. ScottsMiracle-Gro is making lawn care as understandable as it is convenient, affordable and effective. “We’ve evolved immensely in how we communicate and connect with consumers,” People says. “It’s built on four key consumercentric approaches.” These approaches are: • Educate consumers on the value of safe and effective lawn care. • Provide simple and easy-to-understand guidance on how to succeed with lawn care.
1946
• Make it easier than ever to use Scotts® lawn products. • Make it easier for consumers to find and buy Scotts lawn products.
Innovative firsts Scotts was the first consumer company to begin working with the USDA on reaction methylene urea fertilizers in the 1940s. This led to the introduction of the first controlled-release conventional fertilizer.
Research becomes a full-time division, making Scotts the first commercial organization to dedicate a team to turfgrass research.
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This has manifested itself in many ways, with 2018 being a huge innovation year for lawn care. An example is the expansion this year of the Scotts Annual Program, which involves the application of four different fertilizers in early spring, late spring, summer and fall. Consumers can purchase the program at local retail stores or order online to be shipped directly to them. ScottsMiracle-Gro has also launched Thick’R Lawn, an all-in-one solution for thinning and weak lawns that includes soil improver, fertilizer and grass seed in one application. Plus, the new Triple Action line for northern climates includes weed preventer, weed killer and lawn food.
1953
Scotts’ automated electronic seed processing plant—the industry’s first—is built.
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On the technology front, the company is helping consumers realize more efficient and effective use of water in addition to educating them on how best to maintain their lawns for maximum results. This year’s new Gro® line is a platform that creates a “connected yard” via sensors, irrigation systems and a mobile app. “People increasingly are adopting the smart home, where they can use a mobile device to control everything from thermostats to TVs, appliances and blinds,” Peoples says. “The outside of the home now is paralleling what is occurring inside the home.” ScottsMiracle-Gro has a history of innovation with spreader designs aimed at ensuring efficient application of products. To this end, it is rolling out the Scotts Elite Spreader, its most accurate ever. These 2018 product launches augment the many lawn care solutions that ScottsMiracleGro has pioneered and sells today, all with the goal of providing homeowners the highest-quality, most-trusted products to have the lawn they want. m
Innovative firsts The first consumer spreader allowed homeowners to apply seed and fertilizer evenly for better results in the 1930s. Management consultant and author Peter Drucker called it the greatest innovation in the industry because it enabled practical, large-area turf management.
1957
The company revolutionizes lawn feeding with Trionized Turf Builder—the first product to use new technology for controlled-release nitrogen—following the construction of a new manufacturing plant the year prior.
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A winning
Formula Balancing efficacy and environmental responsibility to meet the needs of consumers in battling bugs, weeds and rodents It tends not be to the most pleasant of topics. But bugs and pests create problems for all consumers at one time or another—or even multiple times throughout the year—and things like weeds and poison ivy can linger and even thrive if left unattended. “Nobody counts on having to deal with ants, roaches, mice and other pests,” says Tim Martin, Vice President and General Manager of ScottsMiracle-Gro’s Controls business. “But the reality is, everyone experiences these issues at one time or another. If you do not take preventive steps to control them or fail to effectively address a problem when it does arise, you could very well find yourself overrun.” That’s where ScottsMiracle-Gro steps in, providing a comprehensive line of bug, pest and weed control solutions. The products are marketed under brands such as Ortho® Home Defense insect protection, Tomcat® animal repellents and traps, and Roundup® lawn and garden products. “We want to make sure our brands are the trusted, go-to products for consumers, both inside and outside their homes,” Martin says. “To that end, we are always evolving our products to provide the best possible solutions to keep homes and yards free of bugs and nuisances. Most importantly, we’re innovating in ways that ensure our products work in concert with nature.” One of the company's initiatives is educating customers about and encouraging the responsible use of pesticides through programs like the recent Pollinator Promise initiative (see Page 14) and the line of Ortho garden control products that contain essential oil blends. This education gives consumers confidence in
using pesticides around their kids and pets when they use the products as directed.
“We are always evolving our products to provide the best possible solutions to keep homes and yards free of bugs and nuisances.” —Tim Martin, Vice President and General Manager, Controls
Innovation has also played a role in the development of new applicators, which have been designed to improve accuracy. Examples include the Sure Shot spray wand and Roundup precision gel, both of which enable consumers to target the application of controls while at the same time limiting potential overspray. As for new products, last year the company rolled out Roundup for Lawns, an extension of the Roundup brand, which kills weeds in your lawn without harming your grass. Innovation with Roundup has continued into 2018, as two new Roundup products hit the market this spring: Roundup Landscape Weed Preventer, which creates a six-month weed barrier in mulch and landscape beds, and Roundup for Lawns Bug Destroyer, which kills more than 100 types of listed insects— from fleas and ticks to grubs—both above and below the ground. This innovation mindset is evident with Tomcat, which ScottsMiracle-Gro acquired in 2013 and has quickly built into the No. 1 brand in the rodent control category through a combination of product development and strong marketing initiatives. “It is important to note that our reach in the lawn and garden industry is far and wide,” Martin says. “Controls are another important tool for consumers as they take pride in and care for their homes.” m
1962
Retail employees begin receiving special training classes to better serve customers. Coupled with the product “programs” released two years earlier, this means thick, green lawns are easier than ever to achieve.
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There’s an
App
For that
How your smartphone can help you grow your best garden or lawn ScottsMiracle-Gro has remained a lawn and garden leader by constantly evolving its products and marketing to reach more consumers. That includes turning to technology—specifically via the GRO Connect and My Lawn apps—to connect with the modern consumer on a deeper level than ever before.
The My Lawn app, meanwhile, features the Lawn Care Plan, which provides custom lawn care tips based on location, lawn size and type of grass. The app also tracks progress for up to three years and lets users chat with Scotts lawn care experts about specific questions. “As we evolve, the apps we develop and design will become more than an educational resource for a new generation of lawn and garden consumers,” Ziegler says. “They will allow us to share and connect in meaningful ways, engaging consumers as brand advocates and providing them with solutions to their unique and challenging needs.” m
Innovative firsts In the 1990s, the recently-combined ScottsMiracle-Gro released the first line of value-added soils and mulches. These combinations of readyto-use products had plant food mixed in, simplifying indoor and outdoor gardening for homeowners.
“We’re harnessing the power of technology to modernize our category and engage a new generation of consumers who take it as a given that ‘there’s an app for that,’ ” says Patti Ziegler, Chief Digital and Marketing Services Officer at Scotts. Beyond serving as educational resources for lawn and garden needs, the apps help inspire and empower consumers to transform the way they interact with their greenspaces— from their backyards to indoor plants. Earlier this year, the company announced an expansion of what it calls the GRO ecosystem, which is controlled through the GRO Connect app. It’s akin to bringing the smart home concept to the outside of the home, creating a Connected Yard. The GRO platform includes smart devices, sensors and precision watering kits designed to save consumers time and water by watering where and when plants need it. Users will be able to automatically program their irrigation systems using real-time local weather data as well as monitor the watering needs of plants. “It helps to eliminate the guesswork, providing effortless ways for consumers to use water more efficiently and responsibly,” Ziegler says.
1962
Windsor grass, a new variety of Kentucky bluegrass that’s easy to care for and produces sturdier, greener turf, is the first grass variety to receive a U.S. patent.
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The Pollinator
Promise
Educating consumers on responsible use of pesticides in the garden Over the last 30 years, the United States has seen a steady decline of pollinators—such as honey bees, native bees, bats and butterflies—at a clip of almost 30 percent annually, according to the the White House’s Pollinators Health Task Force. Pollinators are an essential link to the world’s food supply and the country’s economy. They pollinate more than 80 percent of plants in nature, and bees alone are responsible for pollinated commodities accounting for $20 billion in annual U.S. agriculture production, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. But over the last several years, pollinators have continued to decline. The exact causes are unknown, but could include loss of natural foraging areas, mite infestations or pesticide exposure. When it comes to protecting key pollinator species in local communities and across North America, ScottsMiracle-Gro has made a Pollinator Promise. “It’s our pledge to share ways to care for pollinators with gardeners and give them the tools to plant their own garden, apply for a community garden grant or find a way to lend their support to community organizations working to protect pollinators,” says Molly Jennings, Public Affairs Director. “The good news is that urban environments can play a vital role in restoring these habitats, which is why we’re asking gardeners to help by creating pollinator habitats at their homes and in their neighborhoods.”
1964
Halts Plus, the first combination crabgrass preventer and fertilizer, is introduced.
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The Pollinator Promise is twofold: First, while science continues to debate the reasons behind the decline, the company’s Ortho brand is working to remove neonicotinoids, or “neonics,” from its garden control products, says Tim Martin, Vice President and General Manager of the company’s Controls business. “We’ve been following the conversation and, over the last few years, have been exploring ways to expand our global portfolio of neonicotinoid alternatives,” says Martin. “In 2016, we expanded selection of neonic alternative solutions under the Ortho brand. Ortho also announced in spring 2016 its intent to remove all neonic chemistry from its outdoor garden products. Today, less than 1 percent of our outdoor portfolio involves neonics. We’re working hard to get that number to zero.
Innovative firsts ScottsMiracle-Gro leads the industry in eliminating phosphorus from its fertilizers in 2012. This movement is part of a larger, ongoing effort to reduce algal blooms in lakes and improve environmental health.
1965
Golf courses and other large institutions get additional support and service thanks to a new Golf Course Division.
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We’re proud to be the first to make this important transition.” The second aspect of ScottsMiracle-Gro’s Pollinator Promise is to encourage and nurture the creation of natural environments, backyard habitats and greenspaces for pollinator species. “Through GRO1000—our community garden and greenspace grant program— we’ve been able to provide communities with the resources needed to help pollinators regain their presence in our ecosystem,” says Jennings. Jennings says anyone can build a pollinator habitat. Once constructed, the best way to attract pollinators is to provide nectar and pollen sources by planting clusters of colorful, blooming flowers and plants. m
1972
Customers get better advice than ever before thanks to a direct hotline and formal recognition of the company’s “no-quibble” satisfaction guarantee.
1974
Total company sales reach $100 million for the first time ever.
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Health & Wellness NURTURING EMPLOYEE
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The culture of
Living Well ScottsMiracle-Gro’s LiveTotal Health program fosters an ethos of well-being. Denise Stump, Executive Vice President of Human Resources at ScottsMiracle-Gro, remembers the genesis of the company’s health and wellness program, LiveTotal Health. It all began with the goal of extinguishing a few cigarettes. During a meeting in 2005, she noticed that Chairman and CEO Jim Hagedorn was glancing out a window. Outside, several associates were smoking. “Jim watched for a minute, then turned and said, ‘Is there anything we can do about that?’ ” Stump recalls. “He posed the question within the context of whether we, as a company, could proactively put our associates on a path to better health.” As it happened, the conversation occurred at a time when ScottsMiracle-Gro was in the midst of “double-digit increases in health premiums,” Stump says. “Jim Hagedorn had the vision that if we could help associates focus on wellness and healthy lifestyles, they would benefit as well as the company.” Plans were hatched to form LiveTotal Health, which was launched the following year. The program integrates the elements of a traditional benefits package—medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus a robust 401(k) plan and life insurance—with those that work to promote good living more broadly. “At its core, this is about helping people live a longer and better life,” Hagedorn says. “ScottsMiracle-Gro has been in the same small town for 150 years. What that means is we have a family culture here. I wanted to make sure our programs were designed with that in mind. I’m not just worried about the health of our associates while they work here; I want to make sure they have a long and healthy life after they retire. Is there an economic benefit to this program in terms of controlling health
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care costs? Of course. That’s OK. But what’s more important is that this program is giving our associates better control over their health. It’s helping them make choices that improve their overall quality of life.” The three pillars of LiveTotal Health are physical health, financial health and personal health. Beyond benefits, examples of program elements include experts who are available to coach associates on subjects ranging from work-life balance and divorce to debt and taxes, while physical activity and healthy eating are promoted through educational initiatives. Also offered are adoption assistance, investment education and help to quit tobacco products. “It’s a holistic and comprehensive approach to wellness,” says Mike Lukemire, President and COO. “LiveTotal Health provides our associates and their families with the resources and support to thrive, whether it’s through healthy lifestyles, financial peace of mind or opportunities to give back.”
In addition to corralling costs, the habits cultivated in LiveTotal Health contribute to an all-around culture of well-being. “Health and wellness are top of mind,” Stump says. “It manifests itself in events and activities throughout the year and in the many stories of inspiration that our associates share with us and their colleagues.” ScottsMiracle-Gro reports that more than 92 percent of its associates take part in health screenings, while thousands of associates have participated in health coaching over the years. And tobacco use? The results are staggering: It has plummeted from 28 percent to 6 percent among its associates since 2006. A spirit of competition compels associates to continuously improve their health results: Wellness incentives, in which associates’ share of insurance costs are reduced, can be attained with a positive health screening.
“The decision to get involved with Fitness Services at Scotts was one of the best I’ve made. Through personal training, I learned that working out should be fun, not punishment. My trainer was an inspiration; because of her encouragement, I stepped out of my comfort zone and began participating in different group classes. Now I have more fun, am more motivated and have more confidence!” —Heather Sheeley, Senior Specialist, Payroll
“I used to be 5 feet, 9 inches tall and about 255 pounds. I got with one of the Scotts personal trainers and a dietitian, changed my eating habits and focused on being more active. I lost about 50 pounds the first year; I’ve lost a total of 80 pounds. My entire family has taken on healthy changes. We eat more lean meats, vegetables and grains and prepare our meals for the week.” —Justin Farmer, Maintenance Planner/Scheduler, Marysville Plant
1974
The nearly 70,000-square-foot Dwight G. Scott Research Center opens. It houses research offices, labs, a library and more, with more than 110 acres of research plots surrounding it.
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American Heart Association Partnership Physicians emphasize heart health—and so does ScottsMiracleGro. For the last 10 years, Scotts has been a major supporter of the American Heart Association. It has been a top fundraiser in Central Ohio through participation in the Heart Walk, serving as a founding supporter of the Teaching Garden program and by joining in Go Red for Women. But consistent with the ground-up philosophy behind LiveTotal Health, much of the support for the Heart Walk comes from associates. “Our associates not only participate in the Heart Walk itself, but also in many health, wellness and fundraising initiatives leading up to it,” says President and COO Mike Lukemire. “These include 5Ks, car washes and golf contests. The micro-level effort has a macro-level impact.”
For those who are part of ScottsMiracle-Gro, the program also encourages productivity. “When associates feel happy and fulfilled in their personal lives, they often are more productive in their work lives,” Lukemire says. “The personal life impacts the work life, and LiveTotal Health transcends both.” “When I started working here, I decided it’s time to take action on my Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. I was excited to see there was a nutritionist available who could help me learn a better way to eat. Having a thyroid disease, it can be extremely difficult to lose weight, and it makes me tired. But with the help of the nutritionist and fitness programs, I lost 35 pounds that I thought I would never be able to lose. I’m so thankful for everything Scotts offers us.” —Ashley Doehring, Analyst, Orders to Cash
1977
The American Heart Association honored the company with the 2017 Corporate Leadership Award, noting: “Scotts has been an amazing partner in mission by consistently increasing employee Heart Walk participation and fundraising goals, by providing strong leadership and by creating an executiveled company culture of health.”
The mantra is embraced not only by those in the workforce, but also those at the top. “Leaders need to walk the talk,” he says. “It’s critically important that we participate in LiveTotal Health events and espouse ideals related to heathy lifestyles, financial wellness and community involvement.” To that end, Friday afternoon 5Ks are common, as are weekly “Walks with Luke” when Lukemire leads 30-minute walks at the Marysville headquarters. ScottsMiracle-Gro associates aren’t afraid to embrace a competitive spirit, either; they recently completed a companywide step challenge using an app that logged steps over a month-long period. Lukemire was among the leaders to participate.
Other organizations have taken notice. ScottsMiracle-Gro has been named a FitFriendly Company by the American Heart Association and a Healthy Ohio Breastfeeding Friendly Employer by the Ohio Department of Health. “We are a large company with a small-company feel, where there is a sense of family and community,” Stump says. “There is a collegial feel around LiveTotal Health.” m
“In some ways, this is symbolic: It sends a message that daily activity is important, and we are in this together,” Lukemire observes.
Scotts breaks into the Canadian market through a partnership with Home Hardware.
1982
For the first time in more than 100 years, Scotts houses all of its administrative departments in a single facility in Marysville.
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Center of
Wellness
Going Tobacco-Free Eliminating tobacco use in ScottsMiracle-Gro’s workforce was at the forefront of LiveTotal Health’s creation, but such a commendable aim was initially greeted by controversy. In February 2007, Business Week magazine shined a skeptical spotlight on this mission with a cover story carrying the headline “Get Healthy—Or Else.”
The Le Herron Wellness Center is a one-stop shop. For some, driving to the gym can be more of an obstacle than the workout itself. But with the on-campus Le Herron Wellness Center, ScottsMiracle-Gro associates can embrace the short commute to a healthy lifestyle. “For those within the Marysville campus and their families in the local community, close proximity leads to convenience,” says Denise Stump, Executive Vice President of Human Resources at ScottsMiracle-Gro. “There is easy access to all of the on-site resources, enabling associates and their families to work fitness and the center’s services into their busy schedules.” The center was launched by ScottsMiracle-Gro leadership as part of LiveTotal Health, a companywide initiative aimed at enhancing the physical, financial and personal health of associates and their families. But this isn’t just a few treadmills and weights in an empty room; the center is complete with a pharmacy, medical services, a dietitian, physical therapy, personal training services and fitness classes and equipment, all in one building. The staff inside the fitness center includes a board-certified family physician, full-time nurse practitioner, health fitness specialists and a pharmacy man-
ager, along with many other trained professionals available to help. “The wellness center is the catalyst for many opportunities to reinforce and support healthy lifestyles,” Stump says. The group exercise classes offered include everything from yoga to boot camp to Pilates. The fitness equipment covers practically any gym-goer’s need, with squat racks, rowing machines, bikes, strength machines and more. ScottsMiracle-Gro associates praised the center in a recent patient satisfaction survey, calling it a “great experience” and a “great benefit.”
To realize the goal, the company provided support, not just edicts. “Health screenings could earn you incentives to lower your monthly premium,” Stump says. “And to quit smoking, we provided free cessation programs.”
And as the health care world changes, so will the center. A planned upgrade this year will add an electronic medical record system that will provide an improved patient portal, allowing for easier scheduling and patient and provider access to health records on-site and in the community.
In hindsight, the company’s smoke-free stance looks prescient. “People were not accustomed to seeing a company step forward, take a position on this issue and see it through—with what clearly have been positive results that are embraced by our associates today,” Stump says.
“The wellness center empowers our associates and their families to improve their health while providing our company with benefits as well,” Stump says. “We believe healthy associates are happier and more productive.” m
1983
The EasyGreen Rotary Spreader—an economical tool with high accuracy—makes placing product easier and more affordable.
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“Many people latched onto what was a centerpiece of the program, which involved our taking a very bold stance against smoking,” says Executive Vice President of Human Resources Denise Stump. “We were one of the first companies to go tobacco-free and require associates to participate in health screenings.” Associates were given the choice of quitting the habit or paying a higher premium on their company-provided health insurance.
1984
Consumers get better direction on how to care for their lawns thanks to the Lawn Pro Annual Program.
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Give Back To Gro
Nurturing a volunteer spirit among associates ScottsMiracle-Gro has a proud history of giving back, both as a company and through The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation. This legacy is a foundational pillar of the company’s culture and has led ScottsMiracleGro to empower its associates to give back as well. This is where Give Back to Gro comes in. The program, part of the company’s broader LiveTotal Health initiative, provides associates with two paid days off a year to volunteer with nonprofits of their choice. The result: Communities benefit, while associates experience the personal fulfillment and teamwork that comes from helping others. “We want to empower our associates not only to give back, but to do so in their own way,” says Denise Stump, Executive Vice President of Human Resources. “The beauty of it is that you make the choice,” Stump says. “You are given the opportunity to volunteer for nonprofit organizations or causes that align with your values. Whether you’re passionate about helping adopted children, working with youths and the homeless or volunteering at a local dog shelter, we strive to make it convenient for you to give back on a large or small scale.” This charitable philosophy at ScottsMiracleGro started with Miracle-Gro founder Horace Hagedorn and has continued to flourish under his son, Chairman and CEO Jim Hagedorn, says Su Lok, Director of Corporate and Community Partnerships. “Horace Hagedorn would often say, ‘When you find a need, you have to fill it.’ That’s how the notion of giving back to grow started, from
1988
Horace’s belief in helping give those less fortunate a chance at a better life,” Lok explains. This philosophy has fueled the company’s and The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation’s philanthropic efforts through the years. Associates have embraced this belief wholeheartedly, and the spirit of volunteerism can be felt throughout the organization. For Scott Novak, Vice President of Global Quality, Environmental, Health and Safety, it is refreshing to be part of a company with strong principles. “I value the fact that my company has demonstrated it has the same values I do,” Novak says. “A lot of companies can say it’s important to give back to the community but wouldn’t give you the flexibility to spend time at a nonprofit you believe in.”
“We want to empower our associates not only to give back, but to do so in their own way.” —Denise Stump, Executive Vice President of Human Resources
Novak volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and has coordinated groups from Scotts to work at Habitat sites, in addition to leading fundraising initiatives for the organization. This kind of team-building for volunteerism happens regularly throughout ScottsMiracle-Gro. “It’s part of who we are, and it’s encouraged by our leadership team,” Lok says. “It’s something that is valued, and it’s another way for our associates to grow and develop.” m
Scotts improves its portfolio by acquiring the lawn and garden divisions of Hyponex, the country’s largest producer of organic growing media.
1992
New technologies make fertilizer lighter, less bulky and more cost-effective.
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Local Commun Commun it GROWING GOOD IN
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Making the Grass
Greener
Enhancing lives through the benefits of gardens and greenspaces At ScottsMiracle-Gro, altruism is woven into the very fabric of its DNA, both within the company culture and—arguably more importantly—within communities nationwide. “As the largest marketer of lawn and garden products, we’re well-suited to help communities develop public gardens and greenspaces, and we’ve been doing that for a very long time,” says Lindsay LaSala, who manages relationships between local communities and The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation. “But even more so, we feel it’s our social responsibility to do so.” In 2011, ScottsMiracle-Gro made a move to be more strategic with its philanthropic programming with the launch of GRO1000. The program’s goal is to bring the life-enhancing benefits of community gardens and greenspaces to the neighborhoods that need them most by supporting the creation of 1,000 new public greenscapes. This year, the planting of the 1,000th garden will coincide with the company’s celebration of its 150th anniversary.
n n ities
To participate in the program, nonprofit organizations apply for a grant, which provides the funding and resources to create a neighborhood garden or greenspace. Each year, the grant program receives about 1,000 applications. The GRO1000 team then vets all applications to determine which potential recipients meet the guidelines, which include maximizing community impact. “Do the applicants reach an underserved population, or are they involving at-risk youth in the garden? Is it an edible garden that has a donation component? Those are all important factors,” says LaSala.
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Field Refurbishment “We’ve had nothing but a positive response from the community about the fields. It’s been an amazing experience, and we’re truly grateful to Scotts for giving us the opportunity to improve our complex and impact our small community.” —Tyler Cruze, President, North Snohomish Little League in Seattle
“Our vision is to help people express themselves on their own piece of the Earth.” —Lindsay LaSala, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation
“Our vision is to help people express themselves on their own piece of the Earth,” says LaSala. “We see our job as working with these communities in need to help them turn their piece of the Earth—literally, their vacant lot or empty school field or abandoned space—into a thriving, beneficial community greenspace that will touch the lives of all those who experience it.”
The program’s milestone goal will be met with flying colors this year, and ScottsMiracle-Gro can now boast a community garden in all 50 states. Many of the gardens were created in food desert communities, where people have little to no immediate access to fresh, healthy food. Since 2011, more than 560,550 pounds of produce have been donated annually from GRO1000 gardens, with 2.9 million meals going to the underserved. The program has also supported the creation of 125 pollinator habitats and revitalized more than 13 million square feet
These gardens spark social connectedness and often bring together people who might not otherwise have the opportunity to interact. Another important benefit of the program has been the impact it’s had on youth.
1992
Scotts’ stock begins trading on NASDAQ at $19/share.
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GRO1000 is responsible for helping more than 250,000 children nationwide connect with nature and have meaningful gardening experiences, many for the very first time. By tapping into a child’s natural curiosity about the world around them, ScottsMiracle-Gro hopes the gardens will become places where every child has the opportunity to learn, explore, imagine and grow.
What the GRO1000 team has experienced is that these community gardens are transforming neighborhoods across America. The gardens are bringing hope and possibility to underserved communities and providing basic needs, such as healthy food options and workbased training, to individuals who need it.
1993
PatchMaster combination seed, fertilizer and mulch makes reducing bald spots easier than ever.
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The 1,000th garden The GRO1000 program and its achievements will be celebrated in May 2018, when the 1,000th garden will be revealed at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Aptly named The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden, it will be a 2-acre, stateof-the-art facility designed to help families and children reconnect with nature. Native elements from the state of Ohio and its history will be incorporated into the garden, such as native trees, a serpentine mound and more. The garden also includes an interactive creek, canopy walk and many more unique installations to encourage natural play for young children and families. The garden will be part of the Conservatory’s paid experience and open to children and families of all ages.
of greenspace. The 1,000th garden reveal at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in May 2018 serves as the program’s culmination of eight years of communityimpacting work. Newer to the brand’s philanthropic family is the Field Refurbishment Program, which began in 2016. The partnership between ScottsMiracle-Gro, Major League Baseball and its professional baseball teams aims to give back to children and communities through the renovation of youth baseball and softball fields. ScottsMiracle-Gro has been a longtime sponsor of MLB in other ways and previously refurbished fields in cities where All-Star Games have been played. Inspired by the many children and communities across the U.S. without any access to playable, modern fields, the Field Refurbishment Program is a structured approach to making a difference in this arena.
1995
“Grass is a remarkable plant and is a big part of what makes the lawn a place to play, live and experience life.” —Josh Peoples, Vice President and General Manager, Lawns
“Grass is a remarkable plant and is a big part of what makes the lawn a place to play, live and experience life,” says Josh Peoples, Vice President and General Manager of the Lawns division. “But it also is critical to America’s favorite pastime. When you think of baseball, you think of the field; you think of the smell of fresh-cut grass. Our field refurbishments are our way of making sure that families and fans across the country have a place to play this great game and, most importantly, enjoy some quality time outdoors.” Participants are selected through a search for underserved communities with high-use, or potentially high-use, fields that could benefit from restoration. Once selected, the Scotts team takes care of the whole process, from soil to sod. Eleven fields have been refurbished in the first two years of the program. In 2018, the program shifted to a grantbased application process that will select five
Scotts merges with Stern’s Miracle-Gro Products, which was founded in 1951, becoming a national leader not only in lawn care, but in gardening as well.
1995
Scotts stock begins trading on NYSE.
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GRO1000 “My favorite part of the experience was seeing the children’s interactions with the garden: savoring the food they grew, learning how to cook it and experiencing the eureka moment of growing their own food.” —Elsi Rose, Development and Capital Management Coordinator in Sustainable Planning for the city of Miramar, Florida
youth baseball or softball fields around the country in need of renovations. Each field was awarded a grant of up to $50,000, and each refurbishment will include an infield makeover complete with sod and dirt, as well as possible improvements to the pitcher’s mound, home plate, batters’ boxes, bases and anchors, fencing or backstop, and scoreboard. All field work began in March, with unveilings in time for the sports season this spring. The need for this program in communities across the country is clear: Getting outside, playing organized and recreational sports and participating in skills competitions is beneficial to children’s growth, according to Peoples. “Kids need to be kids; running, jumping, building, climbing and just hanging out and playing outside, the one place a kid can be a kid,” he adds. “The environmental and social benefits of gardens and greenspaces have long been known. Our Field Refurbishment Program offers positive benefits to kids, including having a safe place in the community to hang out and encouraging an active lifestyle.” m
2018 initiatives Children and community are two large reasons why both the GRO1000 and Field Refurbishment programs exist; therefore, they are the focus for both programs’ future initiatives. At the 1,000th garden reveal in May 2018, the ScottsMiracle-Gro leadership will announce the next iteration of the company’s community gardening outreach initiative. This new initiative will be partially based on insights learned from the last eight years of GRO1000 and will be focused largely on connecting children to the benefits of gardens. Future initiatives for the Field Refurbishment Program are similar in that children are the core focus. The 2018 grant program is different from years past in that it awards five grants, up to $50,000 each, for youth baseball fields in need of renovations. A panel of judges—including World Series Champion David Ross and Cal Ripken Jr., as well as leadership from ScottsMiracle-Gro and Major League Baseball— helped determine four of the five grant recipients. The fifth grantee was decided by a fan vote on social media. Field upgrades and repairs for the five grant recipients began in March 2018, with unveilings later this spring.
1997
More durable plastic packaging replaces old paper varieties.
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1998
A partnership with the Monsanto Company brings key biotechnologies, including Monsanto’s extensive genetic library, into Scotts’ arsenal of information.
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Empowering
Youth
ScottsMiracle-Gro’s history of helping youths succeed The origins of ScottsMiracle-Gro’s work with youths in the community goes back to the origins of Miracle-Gro itself. Jim Hagedorn, Chairman and CEO of ScottsMiracle-Gro, started his philanthropic work in the Brooklyn and Long Island areas, where Miracle-Gro was founded in 1951 by his father, Horace Hagedorn. The focus of this work was on the education and mentorship of kids; in the 1990s, the younger Hagedorn, along with his siblings, started the Brooklyn Scholars Program, offering coaching and academic assistance to children in need. After Scotts and Miracle-Gro merged in 1995, the company continued its work with children. A new program benefiting kids in need was brought to Central Ohio in 2003—the Miracle-Gro Capital Scholars Program, which provided mentors to a group of third-graders from Columbus Public Schools to assist with homework and academic studies. Students who stayed with the program through the end of high school were promised full college tuition for any school in the state of Ohio. “There is nothing we can do as a society that is more important than helping our children grow and succeed,” Hagedorn says. “As a company, it’s also our responsibility to find ways to give back to the communities that have helped drive our success. Many of our efforts have combined these two ideas, helping the kids reach their full potential and knowing that, if they do, they’ll be the future leaders of our communities, our churches, our businesses. I hope that we’re instilling in them a desire to help others as well.”
“There is nothing we can do as a society that is more important than helping our children grow and succeed.” —Jim Hagedorn, Chairman and CEO of ScottsMiracle-Gro
Acquisition of EarthGro, an organics company, strengthens service to retailers in key regions.
Now The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation, in partnership with the Hagedorn Legacy Foundation, is launching a program in which individualized coaches will work with high school students to identify and achieve their aspirations. The program will take a personalized approach to help the students realize which career path they want to pursue and build a roadmap to reach their goals. The Legacy Scholars Program, as it’s called, is being piloted in 2018, thanks to partnerships with The Ohio State University, Metro Institute of Technology and The Mayerson Academy. The 10-year program will begin at the Metro Institute of Technology in Downtown Columbus and will follow 20 ninth-graders in the 2018-19 school year until they graduate; coaches and mentors (some of whom will be ScottsMiracle-Gro associates) will nurture individual character skills to find out the students’ goals and plans to achieve them. Another group of ninth-graders will be added annually for the next nine years. The program aims to engage 200 students over the next decade. m
According to Su Lok, Director of Corporate and Community Partnerships, the bulk
1998
of Miracle-Gro Capital Scholars have since graduated from college. A celebration was held at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens for the graduates in the spring of 2015.
1999
Scotts enters the pesticide industry with acquisition of Ortho and exclusive regional rights to Monsanto’s Roundup products.
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Environmental
Enhancement Helping make the world a better place “To help people of all ages express themselves on their own piece of the Earth.” That statement is the vision of ScottsMiracleGro, and in many respects speaks volumes about its industry-leading consumer products and environmental stewardship. “Just like our consumers, we are gardeners too, and we have a responsibility to those who put their trust in us and our products,” says Mark Slavens, Vice President of Lawns and Environmental Affairs at ScottsMiracleGro. “Consumers want products and solutions they not only can depend upon for efficacy, but also work in concert with the environment. That’s why we strive to make it easier for them to act in a way that is consistent with their own environmental beliefs.” This environmental mindset comes to life in many ways, from the ingredients found in ScottsMiracle-Gro products to the company’s recycling initiatives to The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation’s financial support of nonprofits committed to protecting the Everglades, Great Lakes and other waterways. Products in Harmony with the Environment “We strive to ensure that our products are manufactured and used in a way that minimize the potential for an adverse impact on the environment,” Slavens says, noting that the company’s innovation—backed by its industry-leading research and development teams—has had a positive environmental impact, especially in areas related to the conservation of water and fostering of clean water resources.
2000
For instance, the company has removed phosphorus from its lawn fertilizers, a move that reduced consumer use of phosphorus by 10,000 tons per year, and now uses more slow-release nitrogen than ever in its fertilizers. It also has redesigned spreaders and application devices to help prevent overuse and overspray of materials. The company has even led the way in the development of new grass seeds that require less water. This year, it launched a new line of sensors and precision irrigation systems that allow for more efficient use of water for lawns and gardens. Some other product examples worth noting: • Announced plans to cease using neonicotinoids in its garden control products. • Improved packaging and application devices for pre-mixed, ready-to-use formulas, reducing the potential for accidental spills and overuse.
The Marysville headquarters building is rededicated to Miracle-Gro’s founder, Horace Hagedorn.
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2005
The Scotts Company is renamed The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company to reflect the might of its two leading brands.
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Photo: andy Mann
Community Outreach through The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Among the philanthropic activities of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation is a focus on the environment, in particular financial support for initiatives or nonprofit groups dedicated to clean water. In 2017, the foundation joined with the Everglades Foundation to become the presenting sponsor of the George Barley Water Prize, which offers a $10 million award to the team of scientists that achieves a cost-effective way to remove phosphorus from fresh water. Phosphorus is considered a primary culprit in the spread of harmful algal blooms. The prize—the largest contest for a water-based environmental project—will be awarded in 2020. While the prize will focus on the algal problem in the Everglades, the resulting scientific work is expected to have far-reaching impacts that can help other waterways facing algal challenges, including the Great Lakes. To help illuminate the breadth of this issue and urge others to action, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation is working with National Geographic photographer Andy Mann, who is documenting algae blooms on major waterways to showcase the need for phosphorus removal.
An Environmental Approach to Operations ScottsMiracle-Gro operates more than 40 manufacturing plants across the U.S. and Canada, ranging from the processing of peat to manufacturing of soils, mulch, grass seeds, fertilizers and pesticides. Each year, the company recycles more than 5 billion pounds of “green waste” material back into its products. “We give composted waste from forestry, farming, food processing and residential landscaping new life in our soils and mulch,” Slavens says. “This keeps the valuable nutrients from these sources from being wasted in a landfill.” ScottsMiracle-Gro also recycles nearly 50 percent of the waste it generates. Compost and recycling bins, for example, are common throughout the Marysville offices. Beyond operations and manufacturing, ScottsMiracle-Gro has become more environmentally focused with its consumer packaging. It currently is using recycled and renewable content in product packaging where possible.
2006
Miracle-Gro Liquafeed becomes the company’s most successful launch ever.
The foundation also works with nearly 20 other environmental groups—including Restore America’s Estuaries, a nonprofit conservation organization with member groups operating in 16 states; the Alliance for Water Efficiency, a North American advocate for water-efficient products and programs; and the Alliance for the Great Lakes, which engages in volunteerism, education and research to ensure that the lakes’ health is a priority for policymakers— to support their missions. “Our support of environmental groups that are focused on water quality and conservation issues is a fundamental pillar of what we do,” says Jim King, President of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation. “The programs we support are laser-focused on protecting critical water bodies throughout the United States, which helps maintain a healthy planet for all of us.” m
2010
EZ Seed beats the Liquafeed launch record, garnering $87.8 million in its first year.
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Nurturing the
Home Turf ScottsMiracle-Gro positively impacts both Central Ohio and the city it inhabits. ScottsMiracle-Gro has been making the grass greener across the world for 150 years. But for Central Ohio, the lawn and garden powerhouse is responsible for more than beautiful lawns and greenspaces. The company was started in 1868 by O.M. Scott. Since then, it has grown to more than 5,500 associates in North America and $2.8 billion in yearly revenue. City officials credit ScottsMiracle-Gro with contributing to the remarkable economic and wage growth in the region.
Although the Fortune 1000 company reaches communities across North America, ScottsMiracle-Gro’s presence is felt most in the community and region where it all began. In Marysville and Union County, the roots run deep. From growing the local economy, to increasing civic engagement, to improving the community through beautification projects, the company has made the grass greenest for Central Ohio. “Our corporate headquarters sit only a couple of miles away from where we were founded 150 years ago, and that says a lot,” says Jim Hagedorn, Chairman and CEO. “We know that ScottsMiracle-Gro is critical to the Marysville community, and we also know that the city’s support remains critical to our success. When my family’s business, Miracle-Gro, merged with Scotts in 1995, some people believed we would move the business to New York. But the commitment of this town, the character of the citizens and the remarkable dedication and work ethic of our associates quickly made me realize that Marysville was the only possible home for our combined company.”
“My older brother was the one that got me in with Scotts. He retired after 37 years. It was always a family company; a lot of families work here. It’s given me and my kids a decent life, and I can say the same for my brother. They do appreciate us, and that’s important to anybody. I think you do a better job when the company appreciates you. Scotts always provided opportunities and do pretty well by us. Always have.” –Jim Huffman, Marysville Plant, employee of 39 years
And as far as Marysville is concerned, the feeling is mutual. “There’s no mistake that the slogan for our city is that ‘the grass is greener,’ ” says Marysville City Manager Terry Emery. “We’re very proud that ScottsMiracle-Gro calls Marysville home.”
2013
Scotts acquires No. 1 pest control line Tomcat.
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“Between 1980 to 2010, [Marysville] had the fastest wage growth in Ohio, and we had the 49th-fastest in the U.S. as a whole,” says Eric Phillips, Economic Development Director for the city. “Part of the reason is we have companies that have made wise decisions. Being in business for 150 years, Scotts has made a lot of good decisions.” The economic impact of ScottsMiracle-Gro is far-reaching. “Having a Fortune 1000 company like Scotts has elevated Union County. We’re looked at as a growth quarter,” Phillips says. “That has helped us, as a community, to get more funds from a grant perspective, and just put our stature much higher in the region.” In addition to the obvious ways a major company benefits a community, ScottsMiracleGro brings value behind the scenes. “[ScottsMiracle-Gro] was a huge investor in the new pavilion for City Hall in Uptown
2014
Scotts forms the wholly owned subsidiary Hawthorne Gardening Company to focus on hydroponic growing markets.
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Marysville. They donate fertilizer to the school and county, and our citizens’ taxes would be higher if it weren’t for Scotts,” Phillips says.
the CEO says. “I’m not alone. I know I’m biased, but the culture and growth opportunities make it a great place to work.”
City leaders believe the company’s community involvement has set the stage for continued growth.
David Russell, Director of Global Information Security, PMO and Vendor Partnership and Chairman of the 20-Year Club, agrees. He grew up in New England and was drawn to Scotts 29 years ago because of what the company had to offer.
“We’re in an enviable location for future economic development opportunities because of Scotts,” Emery says. “The relationship between Scotts and [the city of Marysville] shows our ability to work well with a major employer for many years.” The company’s philanthropic endeavors also are making a mark on the community that can’t be measured in dollars and cents. From monetary donations to countless community volunteer hours by associates, ScottsMiracleGro is creating a greener future with programs like Growing to Green. “We’re hoping to cultivate the next generation of growers by getting families outdoors,” says Su Lok, Director of Corporate and Community Partnerships for ScottsMiracleGro. “We want to help people have a lifelong appreciation for nature.” Since 2000, ScottsMiracle-Gro has been a leading supporter of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens’ Growing to Green program. Through free educational resources and in-kind donations, Growing to Green has helped establish community gardens throughout Central Ohio. The investments by ScottsMiracle-Gro go far beyond the community; they extend to its associates through robust benefits programs, competitive wages and a culture focused on health, wellness and teamwork. This has contributed to generations of families building careers with ScottsMiracle-Gro. It manifests itself in longevity and loyalty among its workforce. Consider the 20-Year Club, through which more than 1,000 current and retired associates gather regularly to celebrate achievements and share stories.
“My mom, Linda Castle, used to bring boxes full of spreadsheets home from work, and we thought it was so cool to help her. I remember she had a lot of flexibility in her schedule and could always come see us in sports. Growing up, Scotts had a swim team at the employee pool that my sister Stacey and I both were on. Every weekend there’d be competitions and we’d be winning medals; it was a pretty big deal. I remember always going to Cedar Point or Kings Island on Scotts’ Family Day, too. We all looked forward to that.” —Brandy Elms, Supply Chain, employee of 18 years
“You can work anywhere if you’re a responsible enough person, but Scotts invests in its associates and fosters relationships,” Russell says. “The organization is very family-oriented and values the importance of relationships among its associates.” ScottsMiracle-Gro associate and U.S. Navy veteran Jim Huffman can attest to the strong affinity his family has had with the company. “[ScottsMiracle-Gro] has always been a family company,” Huffman says. “They’ve always done right by me and given my family a good life.” When Huffman says his family, he means his entire family. He estimates 14 of his close and extended family members have worked at ScottsMiracle-Gro during his tenure. The company’s leadership understands the impact workplace culture can have on productivity and performance. “The people behind our brands are what make this company great,” Russell says. Huffman adds, “When a company appreciates you, you tend to do better at your job. I think everybody wants to be appreciated at work. Scotts has always done right by me.” m
Hagedorn sums it up best. “Outside of my seven years in the military, my entire professional career has been with this company,”
2015
The company is ranked among Forbes’ 100 most reputable companies for the first time.
2018
ScottsMiracle-Gro celebrates its 150th anniversary.
150 years and growing Columbus Monthly MARCH 2014
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The Scotts Company LLC 14111 Scottslawn Road, Marysville, Ohio 43041 Phone 800.233.5296 | Fax 937.645.2736
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