In December, after years of casual conversation, the merger of Signature Landscape and Ackerson Landscape became a reality. United by shared values and a focus on commercial grounds maintenance, the two companies will continue to provide full-service grounds maintenance for commercial properties throughout the Kansas City region. Increased efficiencies, greater geographic reach and solid leadership will enhance the service customers receive as these two organizations join forces.
After 12 years of servicing a similar client base, Signature owner, Bill Gordon and Mark Ackerson sat down to discuss what this partnership could look like for property owners and managers in the region. Gordon explains: “Our end product is so similar because we both have great teams with a passion for what we do. Having our associates able to focus on work occurring within a tight geographic area gives our customers more attention and allows us to gain efficiencies. The fact our operations are already so similar makes the transition easy for everyone.”
Ackerson Landscape was founded in 2004, by Mark Ackerson. With a strong commitment to serving the customer and providing top-quality grounds maintenance services, Ackerson built a successful business and has earned the trust and business of Kansas City’s top commercial property owners and managers. This focus on exceptional customer service and superior quality is in line with the priorities, values and focus of Signature Landscape, making this an ideal partnership. Ackerson sums it up: “For Ackerson, our focus has always been on building strong relationships with customers. We have always felt that our clients are our partners. With this merger, we will instantly have access to the tremendous resources Signature has put in place with multiple locations and excellent employee development programs that will allow us to better serve our client partners.”
Both companies are excited the future. Ackerson adds: “This is a great move for Ackerson Landscape. Being able to utilize Signatures resources and capabilities, will allow me the opportunity to provide my customers with an even greater level of service.”
The integration will be gradual. The 2017 season will be an opportunity for both companies to leverage the strengths of the other and identify best practices to better the organization as it becomes one. Ackerson Landscape will continue to be managed by Mark Ackerson and will remain in the existing Raytown facility. Gordon says: “For the upcoming season, all customer service personnel will remain in place. While over the upcoming months, there will be some subtle changes, our customers can rest assured that the foundation of the business will remain the same.”