On the Emerging Franchise Brands podcast, host Frank Fiume welcomes Rob Palmer, founder of Lawn Squad, to share his transformative journey in the lawn care industry. Originally launching Weed Pro from scratch in 2001, Rob grew his company from a one-man operation into a well-respected brand that eventually caught the attention of Authority Brands. By 2023, he had successfully transitioned Weed Pro into a scalable franchise model under the Lawn Squad name.
In this episode, Rob talks about his unexpected path from being a history major to becoming a lawn care expert and business leader. What began as a necessity quickly turned into a passion, where Rob found himself captivated by both the business side of lawn care and the agronomic science behind it. He emphasizes the importance of continuously learning and attending industry events, which helped him lay the foundation for what would ultimately become Lawn Squad.
One of the pivotal moments in his career was partnering with Authority Brands. Rob explains how this partnership allowed him to keep Lawn Squad’s distinct culture and personalized service approach while expanding on a national scale. Lawn Squad’s franchise model is designed to empower owners with advanced technology and business tools while focusing on building strong, local connections. Rob encourages franchisees to engage in what he calls “ground game” strategies—personalized, community-based marketing efforts that build long-term customer relationships.
This episode is packed with insights for aspiring franchise owners and entrepreneurs. Rob’s reflections on curiosity, resilience, and humility provide a roadmap for anyone looking to succeed in franchising. Whether you’re exploring franchise ownership or seeking guidance on best practices, Rob’s story is filled with valuable lessons on growth, adaptability, and the power of community-focused business.
December 25, 2024
