groundbreaker
Root 22
Root
22 Hydroponics
GARDEN CENTER
Though known as a place to get
tried-and-true products and good
advice, Root 22 Hydroponics Garden
Center is still the (relatively) new kid
on the block. We spoke with Lauren
Baylor, the store’s manager, to learn
more about the first year of business
and where things are headed.
7993 State Route 22,
New Alexandria, Pennsylvania
1-724-668-5244
1-878-295-4227
root22hydroponics.com
1.5 Years in Business
Can you briefly describe the business?
We are very passionate about all methods of growing and pride ourselves
on being able to help any type of gardener, from inexperienced growers to
master gardeners. We try to make everyone aware of how easy it really is
and how great it feels.
When and where did you open the store?
The store opened up in September 2016. We were able to open up the store
on a main highway of the US, Route 22.
How did you get into this industry?
It was more of a general interest that turned into a business opportunity.
Hydroponics is just starting to make its premier in this area. With such a lack
of basic inventory in surrounding stores, which aren’t many, we are trying to
bring hydroponics into more of a mainstream idea. I came into the mix once
they [Root 22] got up and running and needed some help running the technical
stuff, such as the online store, marketing, and social media.
What were your start-up years like?
Well, this past year has brought a lot of changes, I can tell you that, but it’s
all been positive. We started as an idea and putting it into motion has been
so rewarding. The number of loyal customers we have gained in just the first
year has given us the confidence we needed to be able to sit back at the end
of the day and say, “Yes, this was a great idea.” We have become western PA’s
superstore for this industry.
What were some of your struggles as you started the business?
At first, we were unsure how to advertise. We sent out a coupon in a local paper.
About 7,500 coupons in total were sent out; we got one return.
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