Reflections from Scotland: Landscapers, Leadership, and Lessons Over Whisky

Last week, I returned from an incredible trip to Scotland, where I had the privilege of traveling with five other landscape business owners. Although we set out with a loose agenda that included some sightseeing, golf, and the occasional whisky distillery visit, the experience turned into something much richer — a blend of camaraderie, candid conversations, and business insight that reminded me why surrounding yourself with sharp peers is so valuable. 

Between visiting ancient castles, teeing off on misty fairways, and exploring Edinburgh’s remarkable Botanic Garden, there was plenty of laughter and storytelling. However, it was in those relaxed settings,  often over a dram at the end of the day, where real conversations unfolded about the state of our industry and the challenges many are currently navigating.

Reading the Economic Tea Leaves

The Scottish Highlands offered no shortage of dramatic views, but the economic outlook our group discussed was equally dramatic in its uncertainty. There’s a shared sense of caution among clients, with several of us noticing more hesitation in purchasing decisions and project approvals. Some clients are scaling back, others are simply waiting—a pattern that tends to ripple through service industries like ours.

While the U.S. economy hasn’t stalled, it’s clear that sentiment matters. Perception of risk often becomes reality when it influences spending. The consensus across our group was that, now more than ever, owners must stay proactive by keeping lines of communication open with clients, reinforcing the long-term value of landscape investments, and adapting quickly to shifts in demand.

Labor & Technology: The Ongoing Balancing Act

Almost inevitably, talk turned to labor. Everyone in the group voiced similar frustrations about recruiting reliable team members. The competition for talent remains fierce, and the pressures on wage growth and training continue to reshape operating models.

Interestingly, the group agreed that many have started experimenting with AI tools — from proposals and scheduling to client communication. The potential is undeniable, but so is the learning curve. We discussed the importance of striking a balance between efficiency and authenticity, ensuring that technology supports rather than replaces the human connection that defines our work.

The Sales Conversation: Still a Hot Topic

One evening’s discussion turned into a lively (and at times heated) debate about the sales process, specifically around designers with sales targets, compensation structures, and how to balance creativity with accountability. Opinions varied, but everyone agreed on one thing: landscape industry sales are evolving. The expectations for responsiveness, design value, and precision in pricing are higher than ever, and our compensation models must reflect this. These kinds of debates — when they stay respectful and constructive — often spark the ideas that push businesses forward.

Inspiration in the Gardens

Beyond the business talk, huge inspiration from Scotland’s landscapes themselves was a highlight. The walled gardens tucked into old estates, the artistry at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and even the simple beauty of stone walls against rolling green hills reminded us why we chose this profession in the first place. Landscapes, just like businesses, thrive on intentional design, consistent care, and a clear vision.

Final Thoughts

Trips like this remind me of the value of peer connection. When owners step away from daily operations and put themselves in an environment that encourages reflection — whether that’s a castle courtyard or a distillery bar — the mix of openness and shared experience creates breakthroughs you can’t script.

Sometimes the best business meetings happen halfway around the world, with a golf club in one hand and a dram of Scotch in the other. Cheers!

We’ll be heading back to Scotland in 2026. If this kind of experience speaks to you, keep watching. It was, in a word, pure dead brilliant. And if you’re ready to find your peer group, here’s where the journey begins: wilson-360.com/peer-groups