On Pointe

Focal Pointe is proud to announce that it has earned the prestigious 2026 USA TODAY Top Workplaces award.

The award honors organizations with 150 or more employees that have created exceptional, people-first cultures. This year, more than 42,000 organizations were invited to participate. The winners are recognized for their commitment to fostering a workplace environment that values employee listening and engagement. USA TODAY showcased the winners online and at the National Awards Summit in Las Vegas.

The winners are determined by authentic employee feedback captured through a confidential survey conducted by Energage, the HR research and technology …

John Munie speaks to a crowd of volunteers at O’Fallon park.

On March 30, 2026, 38 trees were planted at O’Fallon Park through Focal Pointe’s Broken Bat Program in partnership with the St. Louis Cardinals.

This year’s planting carries added significance. O’Fallon Park lost more than 350 trees during last May’s tornado, and these 38 trees represent an important step in the park’s ongoing restoration—contributing to a broader effort to rebuild a space deeply rooted in community and history.

“When a collaboration project is successful it is such a great feeling. While …

At the heart of Focal Pointe’s culture of service is a deep and consistent commitment to people. Our fourth core value is to Inspire Communities — not only through the quality of our work, but through how we show up in the world. To live with humility, gratitude, and generosity is to live with purpose.

Each year, that commitment takes tangible form through our Branch Impact Award. The award recognizes excellence across Safety, Client Satisfaction, Employee Engagement, and Profitability — and includes a $10,000 donation to a charitable organization.

This year, …

One of the best things about landscaping is the scenery is always evolving. The changing seasons, the passage of time, and shifting expectations for how your property should serve you all shape your landscaping. And while some of these transformations happen naturally, others require the help of the right experts. That’s why at Focal Pointe we’re proactive about proposing landscaping enhancements that deliver the impact you desire. Here’s why that’s key to creating truly memorable environments.

What are landscaping enhancements?

Landscaping enhancements are projects that go beyond your basic maintenance to improve the appearance, function, and safety …

Great landscaping—the kind that truly makes the moment—is one part art, one part science, and a whole lot of accountability. It’s the result of a deep commitment to the craft and you, the client. Accountability is more than just a promise. Here’s what it means to us.

Deep Brand Alignment

It’s not uncommon for people to refer to their landscaping as an “expense.” But we think it’s an asset, not just a line item in your budget. That’s because great landscaping delivers returns on your investment, in the form of satisfaction of your employees and those you …

There’s a lot more to landscaping than mowing and pruning. In fact, one of the most important things we do in service of our clients is quality assurance. At Focal Pointe, that means not just creating beautiful outdoor spaces but doing so reliably. Here are some of the ways we do landscaping differently, with a consistent focus on quality.

We Have High Standards for Our Employees

Our employees have the power to make a difference in your day-to-day, whether by delivering an impressive result, or simply being attentive along the way. That’s why we invest in their …

Great communication is a beautiful thing, especially when it leads to outdoor spaces that truly enhance your world. So why is it that communication so often breaks down with landscaping partners? Let’s examine the biggest culprits, and how we avoid those pitfalls at Focal Pointe.

Unclear Expectations

One of the most remarkable aspects of landscaping is all the possibilities—from the diversity of plants and materials to the riot of colors. But with that comes a lot of room for interpretation. A directive for a spectacular bed of pink flowers could mean baby pink to some, and fuchsia …

Focal Pointe of Kansas City has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2026 honor by Great Plains Top Workplaces 2026. This list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage  LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures the employee experience and its component themes, including employees feeling Respected & Supported, Enabled to Grow, and Empowered to Execute, to name a few..

“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “That’s something …

Happy Wednesday Everyone!  Today’s Core Value is: We Create Our Future.

The Holiday Parties are in full force, which reminds me of a story.  Several years ago, I was at a dinner party, and somehow, I got in a conversation with a few lawyer-types about what we’re all good at.  As I’ve mentioned before, I don’t give compliments well and I don’t take them well…the only thing more awkward than my relationship with compliments is vocalizing what I think I may be good at.  “Get me out of this conversation” was the …

Focal Pointe has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2025 honor by Oklahoma Top Workplaces 2025. This list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures the employee experience and its component themes, including employees feeling Respected & Supported, Enabled to Grow, and Empowered to Execute, to name a few..

“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “That’s something to be proud of. …

John Munie shares how Focal Pointe grew its business to climb the rungs of the Lawn & Landscape Top 100 including lessons in leadership, company culture and business partnerships.

Read the article on Lawn & Landscape’s website by clicking on this link.

It’s funny how the scents of summer can be both nostalgic and comforting: the sweet smell of freshly cut grass, the warmth of the sun on an endless afternoon, the fragrance of a favorite flower.

To make the most of these last few weeks of summer, Focal Pointe Horticulturist, April Fierros, says memories are made in the details. Whether it’s the texture of tree bark, the vibrant color of a single blossom, or the moments that connect us more deeply with the landscapes we love, there is beauty everywhere.

April has a passion for gardens and a …

John Munie was recently featured on Jeffrey Scott’s podcast to talk leadership, growth, and what it really means to build something that lasts. In the episode, John talks about:

Why connecting emotionally with clients and employees is a real business strategy
How to grow without compromising quality or culture
What it means to truly lead—not just manage
Why having a strong balance sheet gives you more than just financial security
His take on organic growth vs. acquisitions

You’ll also hear some great stories about the early days of the business, and how his “why” has stayed the same even …

CASEYVILLE, Ill., June 23, 2025 – Focal Pointe has once again been recognized as a Top Workplace by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.  In addition to the award, the company was also recognized for Spring Culture Excellence in the Category of Purpose and Values.  

“I just love the fact we’re getting the story out that the landscape industry isn’t a career you settle for anymore, it’s a destination.  You look at our team, and they would be successful at any job they choose, and this is where they want to be.”  said Founder and CEO, John Munie.  “When …

Focal Pointe, a leading commercial landscape company, announced the appointment of Michael O’Connell as Executive Director of Business Development.

“I couldn’t be happier to welcome Michael to the team,” said CEO John Munie. “This is a uniquely challenging role at Focal Pointe because we don’t simply sell landscaping.  We provide landscape experiences that can lead to decades-long partnerships, and that takes a different approach.  We’re the service solution most people want but didn’t know was out there.  Under Michael’s leadership, I think we can change that.”

With over 25 years of experience, O’Connell is known for his …

Remember making mud pies and forts when you were a child?

Playing outdoors is the perfect place for kids to run faster, climb higher, jump farther, and discover the wonders of the natural world. From rooftop play areas to interactive nature space, anyone who has ever visited a playground has heard the joyful noise of children with ample room to explore.

Focal Pointe’s Director of Construction Operations couldn’t agree more. “Most of us got started in this industry because we enjoyed spending time outdoors as kids,” said Brian Bobikiewicz, who has been leading the company’s construction division …

Two years ago, my two oldest sons and I had the good fortune of visiting with Dan Cathy, chairman of Chick-fil-A. Dan and I have a mutual friend in Jeff McManus, who is the current landscape director at the University of Texas and former landscape director at Ole Miss. Jeff was gracious enough to set up a visit for us.

Ironically, a few months before our visit, I remember reading an article about the top fast-food restaurants based on store revenue. Don’t quote me on these numbers, but I remember something to this effect: The average Burger …

Focal Pointe is proud to support and participate in the St. Louis Green Business Challenge, a program of the Missouri Botanical Garden that recognizes organizations for their ongoing performance in sustainability.  Initiated in 2010, in partnership with the St. Louis Regional Chamber, the Challenge brings together a broad business network of companies committed to green policy and practice.  Focal Pointe has been a sponsor company since 2017, and has attained the level of Challenge Leader.

In 2024, highlights of our accomplishments in sustainability included:

-Installing green infrastructure and nature-inspired playscapes/outdoor classrooms for local schools.

-Receiving the Ralph Wafer …

Focal Pointe, a leading landscape services provider, is pleased to announce the appointment of Sean Rogers as director of fleet and facilities.

Rogers has nearly 15 years of management experience in heavy equipment operations and logistics, and will have overall responsibility for accelerating Focal Pointe’s commitment to training and safety. He joins Focal Pointe with a background in residential and commercial landscape construction, and design-build project management.

“We are committed to making every part of our business world class,” said Brett Gordon, Focal Pointe Partner & COO. “Sean will provide strategic direction and leadership to two areas …

Today, our Nation honors the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  I have long been inspired by the wisdom of our Founding Fathers, and I think that inspiration is strengthened by the fact that many of them had a broken nature.  I believe that their wisdom was not limited to their own potential – divine wisdom was sewn into their thoughts.  I have equal conviction toward the thoughts of Dr. King.  Like our Founding Fathers, his words, and view for our country, represented wisdom that’s difficult to relate to.  He wasn’t limited …

Good Morning Everyone and Happy Christmas Eve!  Today’s Core Value is:  We Put People First.

Over the weekend, my family and I watched the 1946 Christmas classic “It’s a Wonderful Life” where Jimmy Stewart plays the character George Bailey.  In the movie, George wants to move out of the small town he grew up in, get a college degree, and do big things in the world, like “plan modern cities.”  As George’s life story unfolds throughout the movie, life events created a different path, and he questions the worth of his life …

Focal Pointe, a regional leader in commercial landscape services, announced that Tulsa native Reed Stovall has joined its Oklahoma City team as Partnership Executive.

Stovall reports to Focal Pointe Branch Manager, Jimmy Milligan and Vice President Marketing & Sales, Gregg Hibbeler.

“Focal Pointe recruits the best in the industry,” said Hibbeler. “Reed’s extensive industry knowledge, combined with his passion for landscaping, make him a perfect fit as we continue to add value to our growing team and achieve our mission of providing exceptional customer experience. We look forward to his impact on our business.”

Stovall previously served in …

On a beautiful autumn day in St. Louis, nearly four dozen people celebrated the native plants, tall grasses and wildflowers unique to Missouri’s prairie.

“When my client asked me about our prairie restoration project, she proposed a Prairie Day for her employees to learn about the process, where we are now, and what it will become,” said Dan Schaefer, Focal Pointe account manager.

For many Prairie Day seed harvesters, it was their first opportunity to learn about our unique ecosystem and gather seeds they could use at home.

Joining Schaefer in making Prairie Day an unforgettable experience were …

Listen to Brett Gordon on The Commercial Landscaper Podcast, where he dives into how strategic acquisitions and a people-first culture are fueling Focal Pointe’s growth. Learn about our commitment to finding companies that align with our values and our focus on exceptional service.

To listen to the full episode, visit The Commercial Landscaper Podcast here: From Comfort Zone to Growth Zone: A Journey of Selling, Scaling, and Self-Development.

Focal Pointe announced its acquisition of Messenger’s Lawn & Landscape, a Stilwell, Kansas-based landscape and irrigation firm serving the greater Kansas City metropolitan area since 1999.  Messenger’s will be unified under the Focal Pointe brand as part of the Company’s Kansas City operation led by Kansas City Branch Manager, Curt Marchand.

The acquisition doubles Focal Pointe’s footprint in the Kansas City market, brings a high-quality team of professionals into the company, and gives Focal Pointe the depth and scale needed to service large, complex sites that require unique capability.

“They’re a perfect fit for us,” said Marchand. …

CASEYVILLE, Illinois, July 24, 2024

Focal Pointe announces that long-time irrigation manager John Combs has been promoted to Director of Irrigation and Water Management.

Combs has an impressive track record and a wealth of expertise, with over 10-years of experience at Focal Pointe in landscape irrigation, irrigation technology, and irrigation training. In his new role, he will oversee and support irrigation and water management operations across the Focal Pointe organization. He is an Irrigation Association Certified Irrigation Technician, and pursuing certifications in irrigation auditing and water management.

“It’s an honor being part of an organization that deeply cares …

The Next Level Leadership Summit is an annual conference held by members of the Next Level Network, a peer group of five professional landscape companies – Allied Landscape, Focal Pointe, Pacific Landscape Management, Lawn Management Company, and Stay Green Inc. The five companies look to each other for advice and ideas on bringing clients the best landscaping services in the country.

Each year, Focal Pointe team members look forward to taking part in the Next Level Leadership Summit and learning ways to improve all aspects of the business. This year, Focal Pointe hosted the annual event at …

It was a bittersweet time at Focal Pointe as we said goodbye to our Summer Interns but are excited to see where their new knowledge takes them. Throughout the course of 12 weeks, they worked with an assortment of Focal Pointe professionals to gain well-rounded knowledge of how all departments work together to create a great experience for clients. Before they took off, we had the chance to sit down with them to get the experience in their own words:

How would you rate your overall internship with Focal Pointe?

“Each employee I worked with …

Focal Pointe is celebrating Smart Irrigation Month by helping customers save water, save money, and see better results.

Smart Irrigation Month is an initiative of the Irrigation Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting efficient irrigation. Each July (traditionally the month of peak outdoor water use), this public awareness campaign highlights simple practices and innovative technologies to conserve water and minimize overwatering while keeping lawns, gardens, and landscapes beautiful and healthy.

July is historically the driest month in the St. Louis area. On average, we receive 3.5” of rainfall but we lose 7.6” of water from evaporation …

Landscape Management magazine recently published its 2021 list recognizing the top 150 landscape companies in the country, ranked by 2020 revenue. Collectively, this list represents a record-breaking $12.6 billion in revenue, up $400 million from last year.

In 2018, Focal Pointe made its debut on the list at #150 and in 2019 moved up to #142. This year, the Caseyville, IL based company earned a spot on the list at #138.

Additionally, the company was ranked #24 in the Midwest region, which ranges from Ohio to North Dakota and Kansas to Michigan.

“It’s great to be recognized as one of …

One of Focal Pointe’s many services is playground installation. Over the years we have built many wonderful relationships with schools and municipalities to create, renovate, and expand engaging play areas. The playgrounds of today have changed a lot from when we were kids. Potentially dangerous structures have been replaced with ones that let kids learn about risks with decreased chance of injury. Playground manufacturers like Landscape Structures put a lot of thought into developing play equipment that helps kids develop their minds and bodies. These new playgrounds enable kids to explore their limits with climbing …

Last weekend, several of Santa’s helpers from Focal Pointe we’re out in the community sharing Holiday Cheer with the families of first responders who are experiencing a different, more difficult Christmas season this year.  Groups of volunteers met at homes in communities across southwest Illinois including Troy, Shiloh, and Waterloo. While Christmas music streamed through the morning air, our cheerful volunteers hung lights and decorated festive holiday containers. With the occasional break for hot chocolate and homemade cookies, the spirit of generosity made the day joyful.

The volunteer teams are pictured below.

“There was so much about …

Focal Pointe is Snow Removal Ready and Prepared to Plow

According to weather.com, the average date for the first snowfall in St. Louis isn’t until December 3rd, but we’ve seen snow as early as October 22nd. Focal Pointe’s team and equipment are ready. Last week, Focal Pointe held its annual “Snow Rodeo.” A day when snow removal teams get a refresher on policies and procedures. Our teams rotate through five classroom and hands-on training sessions. They receive specific instruction on the safe and efficient operation of Focal Pointe’s extensive collection of snow removal equipment. Classroom topics …

We are fortunate to live in the Midwest where we experience four distinct climatic seasons. In a 2005 survey Gallup Poll found that Fall ranks only behind Spring as American’s favorite season. It is perhaps because these more moderate seasons provide relief from the sometimes harsh extremes of summer and winter. Those who love the outdoors also enjoy times of transition in our landscapes. As shorter days and cooler temperatures take their toll on our spring planting, now is the time to rejuvenate our landscape and outdoor spaces with cool-season varieties for fall.

Some ideas of …

Members of the Focal Pointe team recently attended the Aspire Snow Summit, a virtual snow conference to discuss best practices, learn about new software functionalities, and network with other landcare professionals.

Attendees took part in live presentations, breakout sessions, round-table discussions, vendor interactions, and networking opportunities all via a virtual format. Some of the topics discussed included snow techniques and best practices, work ticket management, estimating, reporting, and new products and equipment.

Conference keynote speakers included Kevin Kehoe, founder of Aspire Software, developers of business software for landscape and snow companies, and Marty Grunder, President & CEO …

Focal Pointe is celebrating Smart Irrigation Month by helping customers save water, save money, and see better results.

Smart Irrigation Month is an initiative of the Irrigation Association, a non-profit industry organization dedicated to promoting efficient irrigation. Each July (traditionally the month of peak outdoor water use), this public awareness campaign highlights simple practices and innovative technologies to:

Make maintaining green spaces easy and convenient.
Minimize overwatering while keeping lawns, gardens, and landscapes beautiful and healthy.
Save money on utility bills.
Help protect community water supplies for today and the future.

Property owners and managers often overwater, unintentionally wasting money every …

Spring is a time for renewal, and our gardens and planting beds are no exception. When used correctly, mulch can benefit your landscape, both in terms of plant health and aesthetics. If you are planning to add mulch to your landscape this spring, here are some tips.

Why mulch?

A layer of mulch can help suppress weeds, retain moisture, and prevent erosion in your planting beds. But when it comes to mulch, less is more. When added year after year, too much mulch can inhibit plant growth by creating an impenetrable layer that doesn’t decompose.

What kinds of …

Focal Pointe team members attend the i-Landscape conference in Schaumburg, IL

To start off the new year, the entire Focal Pointe Construction Department visited the iLandscape Illinois and Wisconsin Landscape Show in Schaumberg, IL. The goal of this trip was to talk to vendors and see what new equipment was available or on the horizon and to make some new contacts. The trip was successful in a few ways. The team participated in in-depth demonstrations of new equipment that Focal Pointe is planning to purchase and gathered information from several new nurseries to expand our plant …

Focal Pointe Account Manager Cody Azotea was honored this week with a Sustainability Leadership Award from Washington University in St. Louis at their annual Green Carpet Awards ceremony.

Cody Azotea and Washington University’s Allan Miller

The Sustainability Leadership Awards recognize individuals and projects that exemplify leadership in sustainability. Winners are selected based on the following criteria:

Impact—significant measured or projected results
Visionary—paves the way for a sustainable future; redefines norms; questions the status quo
Alignment—initiative aligns with the goals and objectives outlined in the Strategic Plan for Sustainable Operations and advances progress towards the goals
Innovation/Creativity—utilized new techniques, perspectives, or technology …

John and Rick at a conference session

Focal Pointe Controller John O’Connell and Integrator Rick Fadel recently attended the 2020 Aspire Client Conference in Tempe, Arizona. (Aspire provides business management software for landscape, construction, and snow professionals.) The three-day conference included breakout sessions and panel discussions on current industry trends and issues, as well as networking activities for attendees.

One of the most inspiring talks was from keynote speaker Lt. Colonel Rob Teschner, also known as “Cujo.” Teschner, a former Air Force fighter pilot, spoke about improving human performance through teamwork.

“Real teamwork leads to transformation,” says Teschner. …

The St. Louis Green Business Challenge, a program of the Missouri Botanical Garden, has just completed its tenth year of work with companies across the bi-state region to advance sustainability as a business solution. At an awards celebration held Friday, December 6 in Lakeside Café at the Saint Louis Zoo, 61 businesses, non-profits and local government entities were recognized for their work this year to integrate sustainable policies and practices into their operations.

Twelve companies received Awards of Achievement for participation at the Challenge Apprentice Level, including Focal Pointe, Inc. At the Apprentice level, companies work …

Focal Pointe team members recently traveled to southern California to attend the 2019 Next Level University — an annual training and networking conference with peers from five other leading landscape companies from across the country. Representatives from each company exchanged ideas and brainstormed ways to improve company methods and operations.

One of the main themes of this year’s event was company culture. Keynote speaker, Dr. Gustavo (Gustavo Grodnitsky, PhD), kicked off the event with an engaging discussion on the positive impact a good culture can have on a company and its employees. Dr. Gustavo suggested ways …

According to the Farmer’s Almanac, our region can expect below-normal temperatures this winter with above-normal snowfall. No matter how much snow and ice Old Man Winter sends our way, Focal Pointe crews are prepared.

We recently held our annual Snow Rodeo, where all production members of our snow team participated in the following training sessions and demonstrations:

Shop Talk: This training covered how to conduct pre-event equipment inspections, proper installation of plows and spreaders, and best practices for post-event equipment cleaning.

Snow Preparation & Hand Crews: Employees reviewed appropriate snow event clothing, as well as bringing extra clothing and …

For the second year in a row, Focal Pointe has been named one of the 50 fastest-growing private companies in the St. Louis metro area. To create the list, the Business Journal gathered revenue data from local private companies for the past three years (2016 – 2018) and then ranked the 50 companies with the highest growth percentage over that period. Focal Pointe was ranked #36 with 70.8% growth over the last three years!

This honor goes to our hard-working team of professionals whose shared passion to reflect the ideals of those we serve, makes all …

After nearly a decade of decline and reduced availability, it seems that the beloved Impatiens plant is finally making a comeback.

Impatiens walleriana, commonly called Impatiens, has historically been one of the most popular annual bedding plants in the country. A longtime favorite of gardeners, Impatiens are easy to grow and provide beautifully-colored blooms in shady conditions. The name Impatiens comes from the Latin word for impatient, undoubtedly chosen for the violent way in which the original perennial plant’s seeds discharge from its ripe pods.

Eight to ten years ago, Impatiens became susceptible to downy mildew – …

Summer is coming to an end and folks are busy soaking up the last barbeques and sunny afternoons before fall settles in. Snow probably isn’t on your mind right now, but here at Focal Pointe, that is not the case. It may still be summer, but we are in full preparation mode for snow season.

We start heavily planning and preparing for the snow season in August. By starting early, we ensure we are fully prepared to serve our clients whenever that first snowfall occurs. We want our clients to know they can always depend on …

For the second year in a row, Focal Pointe sponsored a seminar at Busch Stadium featuring Steve McClatchy as the keynote speaker.

Steve McClatchy is a national speaker and author of the New York Times Bestseller, Decide: Work Smarter, Reduce Your Stress & Lead by Example. He has worked with some of the most prominent organizations in the world including Google, Under Armour, Disney, John Deere, Microsoft, and others. Steve is passionate about continual improvement and believes that when we stop growing, learning, gaining experience, and achieving goals we stop living.

Steve’s presentation entitled, Leading Relationships: Communicate …

Did you know that over the next ten years, a half a million teens with autism will enter into adulthood? 93% of adults with autism are unemployed or underemployed. Easterseals Midwest is trying to change that. Easterseals offers a variety of training and placement services that help people prepare for the workforce — for many, meaningful work is often the key to overcoming challenges and engaging with the community.

One of Easterseals’ initiatives is its LINK program, a visual and hands-on curriculum designed to teach social skills for the workplace. Two LINK program graduates, Andersen Williams and …

Spring is always the busiest time of year in landscaping. While our crews are actively serving our clients year-round, it’s springtime that is always our biggest push. With activities including spring cleanup, mulching, mowing, planting, and pruning, the hard-working folks at Focal Pointe are busier than ever during the 100 (or so) days that launch our spring season.

To recognize this “100-Day Dash” and its flurry of activity, long hours, and weekends worked, Focal Pointe recently held a celebration in appreciation of our dedicated staff.

All employees from Focal Pointe’s three branches (Main/Caseyville, Washington University, and Springfield, …

What does all this rain mean for your lawn?

If it’s true that April showers bring May flowers, is it possible for there be too much of a good thing?  Clearly, the families and businesses impacted by flooding believe so, and so does your lawn.

The media is drawing comparisons between this year and the great flood of 1993, but in terms of local precipitation, this year reminds me more of 1995.  The flooding of 1993 had a lot to do with the amount of precipitation our neighbors to our north experienced, but I recall locally heavier …