May 21, 2015

Check Out This List By Tim Hodson

The list is out!

Have you seen it yet?

I’m talking about the Class of 2015 of GPN’s 40 Under 40.

If you haven’t had a chance yet, turn to page 12 of your May issue of GPN to read about 25 men and 15 women who make up this year’s class.

This year’s class represents all facets of the horticulture industry, but they all have one thing in common – they are the pioneers for the future of our industry!

If your May issue isn’t handy, here’s a link to the digital edition. You can also read about this year’s class on the 40 Under 40 page on www.gpnmag.com.

You will have chance to meet many of these men and women in July at Cultivate’15 in Columbus, Ohio.

On Monday, July 13, I will be hosting a special Mix ‘n Mingle session at the Columbus Convention Center where members of this year’s class will be on hand for you and you will have an opportunity to learn more about what makes these individuals tick.

If you are planning on attending Cultivate’15, you’ll want to be at this session.

I hope to see you there.

– Tim

Wal-Mart Expands Veteran Hiring Program

Two years ago, Wal-Mart created its Veterans Welcome Commitment program with a goal of hiring 100,000 recently discharged veterans by 2018. Due to the early success of the program, the retailer has announced that number will increase to 250,000 by 2020. According to one Wal-Mart exec, the company is pleased with the program’s progress and the quality of the new employees because military vets are teamwork focused, disciplined and have a hard work ethic.

New Whole Foods Stores Aimed at Millennials

In 2016, Whole Foods Market is setting its sights on Millennials when it comes to new store expansion. Beginning next year, the organic and natural grocery chain will open smaller, value-focused stores designed to meet the needs of Millennials. The company’s co-CEO John Mackey said the new stores would be more streamlined and offer a smaller selection of items aimed at the lifestyle of millennial shoppers. The new store locations have not been announced yet.

Lowe’s Acquires Leases of 13 Former Target Stores in Canada

Lowe’s will open 13 new stores in Canada thanks to the acquisition of the leases of 13 former Target stores. Lowe’s also plans to purchase a former Target distribution center. This acquisition came as part of a real estate auction following Target’s decision to cease operations in Canada. “These additional locations will accelerate our expansion across the country, enhancing our presence in Western Canada and strengthening our base in Ontario,” said Sylvain Prud’homme, president of Lowe’s Canada.