New Aspire Software Data Shows Commercial Landscape Contractors Focus on Client Retention, Operational Efficiency, and Smarter Tech Investments

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aspire Software, a ServiceTitan company and leading software provider for field service businesses, released its 2026 Commercial Landscape Industry Report, highlighting current market conditions, emerging trends, and contractor priorities shaping the year ahead. The report surveyed over 1,000 commercial landscaping business owners and executives, and the study highlights how contractors are navigating ongoing labor shortages, economic pressures, and rising costs by doubling down on customer retention, tightening operations, and adopting integrated technology solutions.

“Despite industry-wide challenges, contractors are demonstrating resilience by focusing on what they can control, retaining clients, streamlining processes, and investing in scalable tech,” said Jon Gohl, director of customer experience at Aspire. “When companies reduce platform fragmentation and make smarter operational decisions, they position themselves to thrive.”

Contractors Are Focused on Growth and Retention
The report found that while 79% of respondents aim to grow revenue in 2025, the majority don’t plan to add new services. Instead, contractors are prioritizing customer acquisition and retention as primary business goals. Maintenance work remains the industry’s financial backbone, with 59% of contractors earning the majority of their revenue from recurring maintenance services.

Word-of-mouth and repeat business remain critical; 35% of contractors attribute revenue to repeat clients, while 26% cite referrals. With market uncertainty looming, contractors are turning inward to optimize workflows and improve profit margins rather than expanding service offerings.

Labor Shortages and Pay Disparities Prompt Wage Increases
Labor remains a top concern, with 70% of respondents planning to raise wages in 2025—44% by at least 4%. Pay gaps between maintenance and construction crews (often $4–$5 per hour) are compounding recruiting and retention challenges. Subcontractors are primarily paid via flat rates or a combination of pay systems.

“Hiring challenges aren’t just about headcount, they’re about finding quality talent,” said Eli Zevin, General Manager of Landscaping at Aspire. “Many contractors I speak with are raising wages not only to stay competitive in a tight labor market, but because they genuinely believe it’s the right thing to do as costs rise for their teams in everyday life.”