From Residential Roots to Commercial Success: A Vendor Success Story with Melvin Holloway

At Peazy, we pride ourselves on connecting with vendors who not only excel in their craft but also have incredible stories of growth, perseverance, and success. Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight one such inspiring journey—Melvin Holloway from 3 Brothers Landscaping & Snow Services. Melvin's story is a testament to the power of adaptability, strategic growth, and the importance of building a strong infrastructure.

From Humble Beginnings to Commercial Giants

3 Brothers Landscaping & Snow Services began in 2012, initially focusing on residential services. However, it wasn’t long before Melvin saw an opportunity for growth and diversification. By 2020, the company had officially transitioned into the commercial space, expanding its services to include general contracting and, more recently, janitorial services. The decision to expand was driven by customer demand and Melvin's background in operations and management, which made the transition a "no-brainer" for him.

Melvin’s journey wasn’t just about following market demands—it was about strategically building a business that could service clients comprehensively. Whether it was remodeling a kitchen or providing post-construction cleaning, Melvin's company adapted and grew, offering a wide array of services under one roof.

Strategic Growth: The Power of Infrastructure

One of the key takeaways from our conversation with Melvin was the importance of having the right infrastructure in place. As Melvin puts it, "You can’t grow your business if you’re doing everything yourself." This realization led him to build a strong administrative team before even considering the expansion into new services.

Melvin’s administrative team manages everything from bookkeeping and payroll to handling complex project bidding and contract management processes. However, this robust support system didn't come together overnight. Understanding the need for assistance but mindful of costs, Melvin started by adding outsourced team members on a part-time basis. This approach allowed him to afford the help he needed without the financial burden of full-time W2 employees. By strategically growing his administrative team with specific services as needed, he was able to focus on expanding the business while keeping financial commitments manageable. 

The result? A company that experienced an impressive 387% growth in revenue from 2021 to his projected total for 2024.

Overcoming Financial Hurdles

Transitioning from residential to commercial work came with its own set of financial challenges. Melvin shared that one of the biggest hurdles was securing the working capital needed to pay his team while waiting for payments from commercial contracts. The solution? Establishing a strong relationship with a bank that understood his business and could provide the necessary lines of credit.

Melvin’s advice to other vendors looking to make the leap into commercial work is clear: "You have to be prepared to have your finances in order and build a relationship with a bank." Though he was initially denied by banks multiple times, he made sure to understand the requirements needed to secure a loan and worked diligently toward meeting those goals. While continuing to build a relationship with the bank, this preparation became crucial to 3 Brothers’ ability to take on large contracts with entities like the Chicago Housing Authority and various state departments.

The Importance of Partnerships

For Melvin, subcontractors aren’t just hired hands—they’re partners. He believes in investing in his subcontractors, whether that’s through financing equipment or offering guidance to help them succeed. This partnership approach ensures that both parties benefit and grow together, creating a reliable and efficient service for their clients.

However, Melvin also noted the challenges of working with subcontractors, particularly around control and scheduling. To address these challenges, he has established processes that enhance transparency and accountability, ensuring that his partners consistently deliver quality services to clients.

Looking to the Future

As 3 Brothers Landscaping & Snow Services continues to grow, Melvin is already planning the next steps. The company is set to rebrand, reflecting its expanded range of services, and is exploring further expansion into facility maintenance. Despite the challenges, Melvin’s outlook is optimistic: "The wins have been much better than the challenges."

One key lesson Melvin emphasizes is the importance of not waiting for the "right time" to make essential investments. He believes that if you want to grow, you must invest—even if the timing isn’t perfect—because otherwise, you risk plateauing and stalling your business’s potential.

Key Takeaways for Vendors

1. Build a Strong Infrastructure: Administrative support is crucial for growth, especially when transitioning into commercial work. Start slow and add help as needed without overcommitting financially.
2. Establish Financial Relationships: Secure a line of credit with a bank that understands your business to manage the financial demands of commercial contracts.
3. Invest in Partnerships: Treat subcontractors as partners and invest in their success to create a stronger, more reliable service offering.
4. Be Prepared for Growth: Challenges will arise, but with the right preparation and mindset, they can be overcome.
5. Invest Early: Don’t wait for the "right time." If you want to grow, you have to invest, or risk plateauing.

A Path to Success

Melvin Holloway’s journey is a powerful reminder that with determination, strategic planning, and a focus on building strong relationships, vendors can achieve remarkable growth and success. At Peazy, we’re proud to work with vendors like Melvin who embody the spirit of entrepreneurship and excellence. Remember, if you’re waiting for the perfect moment to invest in your business, you might just be holding yourself back. Don’t wait—invest in your growth today to avoid plateauing tomorrow.

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