Company case study · 2 podcast episodes
B2B Stump Grinding
B2B Stump Grinding is an innovative business model proposed by the founders of a tree trimming business in DFW, who aim to provide stump grinding services by leveraging existing tree businesses and landscapers as partners. It came up on 2 podcast episodes (Koerner Office) between July 10, 2024 and June 20, 2025.
At a glance
| Discussed on | 2 episodes: Koerner Office |
|---|---|
| First and latest | July 10, 2024 to June 20, 2025 |
| Revenue and traction | The owner made $7,500 in the first month, $9,000 in the second, and $30,000 two months ago. |
| Category | Physical-Services |
Figures and claims are as told on the episodes, summarized from the transcript. Check the date: they describe the company at the time it aired.
What Koerner Office said
Starting a Business Has Never Been Easier. What’s Your Excuse?⏐ Ep. #185 · aired June 20, 2025 · hosted by Chris Koerner
Why it works
By piggybacking off existing landscaping companies, it taps into their client base without needing to establish a new customer relationship.
Revenue and traction
The owner made $7,500 in the first month, $9,000 in the second, and $30,000 two months ago.
Founding story
The business was initiated as an experiment after discussing the concept on a podcast.
The playbook
Utilizes a rental model for equipment to minimize upfront costs and labor to maximize profit margins.
Also mentioned
This business model exemplifies leveraging existing demand in the home services market.
What Koerner Office said
B2B Stump Grinding. Cash Cow or Dud? HoldCo Bros Discuss. Ep. #037 · aired July 10, 2024 · hosted by Chris Koerner
Why it works
This model works due to its operational efficiency—by outsourcing the actual grinding work to existing businesses that lack the equipment, the founders can minimize overhead costs and maximize profits. Additionally, the strong demand for stump grinding in the DFW area creates a lucrative opportunity.
Revenue and traction
The founders estimate that if they capture just 5% of the 3,000 potential tree and landscaping businesses in DFW, they could generate around $4.4 million in annual revenue by performing an average of six stump grinding jobs per month per company at a minimum price of $350 per job.
Founding story
The founders started their tree trimming business with a light operational model, focusing on generating leads while outsourcing the labor. They realized that stump grinding was a pain point for many tree services and landscapers, leading them to brainstorm a business model that relied on B2B referrals instead of traditional consumer sales.
The playbook
1. Identify your target market: Research the local area to find tree trimming and landscaping businesses that may need stump grinding services. Aim for a specific area, like DFW, and compile a list of potential partners. 2. Develop a unique pitch: Create a simple yet compelling message to reach out to these businesses. Highlight the efficiency and profitability of outsourcing stump grinding instead of renting equipment. 3. Test the waters: Conduct a small outreach campaign—like texting or emailing a segment of the businesses— to gauge interest in your service. Keep track of responses to refine your pitch. 4. Build partnerships: Once you have a positive response, establish formal partnerships with these businesses, offering them a commission for each job they refer to you. 5. Market your service: Create a marketing plan to promote your stump grinding service through social media, local advertising, and by leveraging the existing networks of your partner businesses.
Also mentioned
The founders emphasize the importance of building a reliable network of subcontractors who own stump grinders and can execute the work efficiently. They also recommend testing the market before making significant investments in equipment and operations.