Texas Nursery & Landscape Association
Profile
Name: Chris Hobbs
Company: Austin Wood Recycling City: Cedar Park
TNLA Region: VIII
TNLA Business Category: Supplier
Current professional position/title: Sales Manager
Length of time at this position: 22 years
TNLA Member since (include TAN and/or TALC membership also): 2015
Educational and/or industry background:
I have been directly involved in this industry for 22 years as a landscape product salesperson for Austin Wood Recycling. In this role I have worked directly with retail and wholesale centers and helped educate customers and vendors on the value of landscape products in the Texas landscape industry.
List Board/Committee/Region service to TNLA (include TAN and/or TALC service also):
2018-2019 Host of TNLA Expo Rally (Cedar Park, Texas)
Past chair and current member of the TNLA education committee
Current Member of the EXPO Advisory Committee
Current Member of the TNLA Foundation
Special industry honors, awards or certifications:
2018 Large Business of the Year – Cedar Park Chamber of Commerce
2016-2019 Best Small Hardline Exhibit – TNLA Expo
2026 Summit Award Winner
Why are you involved in TNLA?
TNLA has always and continues to be the most informative and influential organization within the green industry. For many years, their services have reached far beyond all expectations TNLA’s ability to keep members informed on industry happenings across the state allows and encourages me to adapt to the changes within our industry. TNLA’s transparency and commitment to growing and improving our industry has always been apparent. The legislative and regulatory advocacy work they do, educational opportunities they provide, and large number of networking events they host, are just a few reasons why it is a necessity to be involved in TNLA. Being an active member allows me to work with others in the industry and connect with individuals and companies I might not have an opportunity to otherwise, and gain information to better assist our customers. The insight and guidance provided is extremely valuable and I can confidently say my involvement in TNLA has been crucial for both my personal knowledge and growth as well as Austin Wood Recycling’s success.
Thoughts on Green Industry (past, present, and/or future):
The green industry is constantly evolving to meet the needs of the customers it services. With changes in legislation and regulations concerning transportation, the costs of effectively supplying products to customers have affected budgets and everyone’s ability to supply customers in outlying areas at a reasonable price. When we add in labor and the demand for increased wages to hire and retain employees, we are facing greater challenges each year. The industry is racing to adapt to the era of AI and social media which allows us to reach out to customers and tap markets not as readily available in the past. I see TNLA continuing to provide information, resources, and support to its members to help us evolve with the changes and advances in our industry.
Additional comments regarding position you are nominated for (Optional): Throughout the 22 years I have been with Austin Wood Recycling, I have seen broad change and tremendous growth within our industry. Since 2004 I have been involved in every aspect of our company from the supply
chain, to product development, production, quality control, inventory, and the final delivery of product. I feel I have been an asset to this industry and know that my product knowledge coupled with my interpersonal skills will be key in my role as Supplier Director for TNLA.