Back to the Roots, founded 15 years ago by Nikhil Arora and Alejandro Velez with just $5,000, has become a leading gardening brand sold in major retailers such as Walmart, Target, Lowes, Home Depot, and Amazon. Despite facing challenges along the way, the duo has stayed true to their mission of creating an eco-friendly gardening company. Their initial product, mushroom grow kits made from recycled coffee grounds, led to successful partnerships and the launch of the business, which has now grown to include a variety of organic gardening products.
The company’s commitment to making organic products more mainstream and affordable has led to a focus on big box retailers like Walmart. By offering peat-free soils, American-grown organic seeds, and packaging made from recycled materials, Back to the Roots aims to appeal to a wider audience of consumers looking for sustainable gardening options. The surge in interest in gardening during the pandemic has also helped boost sales for the brand, as more people have turned to gardening as a hobby while spending more time at home.
Walmart has been actively adding organic products to their shelves, recognizing the growing demand for sustainable options among consumers. Back to the Roots offers organic seeds grown on American farms, appealing to customers like Ben Peterson, a garden merchant at Walmart, who is focused on promoting eco-friendly products and helping growers transition to organic farming. Back to the Roots’ growth at Walmart has been rapid, with the brand becoming the fastest-growing organic brand in the store.
In addition to their focus on organic products, Back to the Roots is also working on improving their packaging to reduce their environmental impact. By incorporating post-consumer recycled plastic into their bags of soil, the company is aligning with Walmart’s environmental goals and setting an example for other brands in the industry. The company’s commitment to sustainability extends to their long-term vision of transforming garden centers to be more eco-friendly and waste-conscious.
Industry leaders and celebrities are betting on Back to the Roots to disrupt the stagnant lawn and garden category, which is still largely driven by brick and mortar sales. With their innovative products and dedication to sustainability, the company is positioning itself as a next-generation brand that can compete with legacy players and offer consumers a more environmentally friendly choice. Back to the Roots’ success story serves as an inspiration for other brands in the industry to embrace sustainable practices and work towards a more eco-conscious future.
