Mulch N More Case Study
Data-Driven Decisions:
How Strategic Analysis and ‘Personal Touch’ Transformed Business Performance
At a Glance:
✔ 70% growth in a division previously considered for closure
✔ 25% overall business growth
✔ Restructured company into three distinct operational sectors
✔ 6 trucks, multiple loaders, and 12 employees
Duke Vlaanderen has built Mulch N More into a comprehensive service provider over the past five years, expanding from landscaping supplies into bulk haulage and load and haul services. With a fleet of six trucks, multiple loaders, and a team of 12 employees, Duke knows the importance of having clear visibility across different areas of his business.
The Challenge: Beyond Black and White Numbers
Despite running a successful operation, Duke faced challenges with his previous accounting relationship that limited his ability to make strategic decisions.
“Our previous accountant was very black and white, just about the numbers. Their approach was very simple – ‘you’ve got to do this’ – but business doesn’t always work that way.”
As a growing company with diverse service offerings, Mulch N More needed more than standard accounting. They needed a partner who could understand the operational realities of their business and provide timely, strategic guidance.
“With our previous accountant, they were a big corporate entity, and we were just a number. If you wanted to discuss a truck that was for sale, you’d have to book in three weeks ahead. By then, the opportunity would be gone.”
Finding a Partner Who Understands the Business
When Duke met Patrick through a mutual client about two years ago, he immediately noticed the difference in approach.
“We saw his understanding of business, not just the numbers. Patrick gives you interest in the business itself, and then transposes that to the numbers side to get a better understanding.”
For a business operating across multiple sectors, this operational understanding proved invaluable.
Transforming Financial Visibility
One of the first initiatives was to comprehensively review Mulch N More's systems and performance tracking.
“We had previously had a challenge reconciling our different business activities. Patrick helped us break the company down into three sectors and perform detailed performance reviews.”
This analysis revealed something surprising – parts of the business that appeared to be underperforming were actually doing better than expected once properly accounted for.
“We discovered that one part of the business that we thought was generating a significant loss was actually performing well..”
By properly reconciling the point-of-sale system and correctly attributing revenue, Patrick helped Duke gain an accurate picture of each business division's true performance.
From Shutdown to Growth
The insights gained through this analysis completely changed Mulch N More's strategic direction.
"In the sector of the business that we were actually looking at potentially shutting down, we've had 70% growth since implementing these changes," Duke shares.
“Patrick gave us the confidence to invest in more marketing in that area, whereas before, we were looking at actually shutting it down completely”
The results have been remarkable across the board:
70% year-over-year growth in the landscaping division
25% overall business growth
Improved profitability through targeted investments
With improved visibility and strong revenue growth established, Duke and Patrick are now laser-focused on the next stage of business development. 'Now that we've got the turnover, we're looking more closely at the profitability side of things,' explains Duke.
Beyond the Spreadsheet
For Duke, the value extends beyond improved financial performance. Patrick's personalised approach has provided peace of mind and confidence in decision-making.
“Patrick has more of a personalised touch. He comes to your house, he knows what you’re actually like. You’re not just black and white numbers on a spreadsheet.”
This understanding translates into planning that aligns with Duke's personal and business goals.
“He’s built relationships with our bankers and mortgage brokers too. I can just call Patrick when there’s a truck I want or a job we’re doing, and he coordinates with the broker, banker and the rest of the team. It all works hand in hand.”
A True Business Partnership
The accessibility and responsiveness have been transformative for Duke's ability to seize opportunities
“I can send him a message on a Sunday and he’ll generally reply on Monday morning. With business, you need to make quick decisions for opportunity sales – otherwise, they’re gone.”
For Duke, the fixed monthly fee structure also provides predictability, allowing him to budget accurately while knowing he has support when needed.
“I think what everyone lacks is that personal touch. Everyone can sign up to a corporate company, but with Patrick, you get a fixed monthly cost and he just gets it done. I trust what he does – I don’t question it.”
