Foster Garden Center and Knowlton Landscapes: Growing Through Grouping
For nine years, Jean-Samuel Maynard has been participating in the activities and events of the cooperative. One might even say he is doubly a member since both the garden center and the landscaping company he heads are part of the network.
« Groupex really occupies an important place in the industry, a weight that makes a difference when you face difficult situations. The co-op is there for you! »
Jean-Samuel Maynard, co-owner, Foster Garden Center and Knowlton Landscapes
« To date, I am not aware of any other association like Groupex that plays the role of a purchasing group. We are part of other useful groups for networking, such as APPQ, but they don’t have the monetary benefits of Groupex. »
Jean-Samuel, Marie-Pier, Kayla, Cathy-Myriam and Philippe Jean-Samuel Maynard and his accomplice Marie-Pier Jussaume.
Groupex: Supporting Its Members
Like all horticultural businesses, Maynard’s were heavily shaken during COVID, and the co-op greatly helped them with supply issues. It’s thanks to the cooperative that we have strengthened our efforts in sourcing. Clearly, being members of Groupex at that time saved us!
« I called the team for a problem, and in one day, it was solved! »
He also recounts that the co-op is always there to support its members. The entrepreneur also addresses another major challenge faced by many businesses: the shortage of staff, particularly on construction sites. “I participate in the co-op’s program to bring in labor from abroad, which is really helpful. But I think this is an issue that Groupex will increasingly have to contribute to because it’s the challenge of the coming years.
Groupex Benefits: Savings, Learning, and Sharing Among Members
Beyond saving time and money, Maynard believes that other aspects of the Groupex network are also very important, especially the opportunity to visit member businesses. “Whether it’s in terms of vehicle fleet, facilities, or work methods, we really enjoy discovering what others are doing, asking questions, and sharing tips.” Other opportunities like the annual congress and conferences are also valuable, according to him.
The proof that we believe in it is that we’ve already brought some of our friends into the co-op,” says Maynard. Any advice for businesses hesitant about becoming members? “I think it’s important that your business has reached a certain level, to better take advantage of the financial benefits. And that you’re ready to grow… because with Groupex, things really start moving quickly!
Knowlton Landscapes Team – Summer 20232023 Construction SitePhilippe Laflamme, Co-owner of Knowlton Landscapes.
Marie-Pier and Jean-SamuelCathy-Myriam and Philippe
