For nearly 25 years, Urban Growers in Burton, Ohio, has developed into a family-driven business with 150,000 square feet of greenhouse space. Founder John Urbanowicz started the company in 1999, initially balancing it with full-time work before transitioning to horticulture full-time when his daughter was born.
"My first 10 years of that journey were working for BFG Supply Company," John says. "We've been in business for close to 25 years. I had to make a decision and be able to spend a little bit of time with both family and work." That decision marked the beginning of Urban Growers' expansion, supported by both family and a core team of employees.
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Family and team support
John credits his wife with managing production orders. "She handles about 99% of our plant material ordering," he says. Alongside family involvement, a long-standing team has been central to the business. "We have a great core group of employees who've been with us through the good and the bad," John adds. "They're a huge part of what we do, and we really value their input as we work to get better every year."
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Expansion and labor market shifts
Urban Growers' most recent expansion involved upgrades in the shipping and production areas. "We've grown to 150,000 square feet of coverage space, but our most recent expansion, particularly in the shipping and production areas, really took us to the next level," says John.
Like many operations, labor availability remains a challenge. The company has long relied on the Amish community as a workforce, but recruitment has shifted in recent years. "We've had great success with the local Amish community. We've hired eight new employees here locally," he explains. Even so, broader changes in the post-COVID labor market and wage expectations continue to affect staffing.
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Rising costs and supply pressures
John also points to increasing costs in the supply chain as an ongoing concern. Tariffs on materials, particularly steel, have a direct impact on operational planning. "If things don't change, there's no way we could take on another 25% increase in steel."
Supplier relationships remain an important focus for Urban Growers. "I've always tried to surround myself with number one suppliers. Not always basing the decisions on money and cost, but based on experience and being helpful," John notes. That includes a 20-year collaboration with PRO-MIX®, not just for the product but for the support he's received over time. "If there has been an issue, it has always been addressed," he adds.
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For John, the path ahead is clear. "I always want more. I always want to be successful." With recent expansions completed and a committed team in place, Urban Growers continues to adapt to changing labor and cost conditions while positioning itself for further growth.
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