Breaking the grass ceiling: meet the woman helping to change the face of lawn care this International Women's Day

For many years, industries like lawn care and gardening have been predominantly male-dominated. But as more women take charge in sectors once considered out of reach, the landscape – both literally and figuratively – is changing. In a profession where green spaces have often been tended by male hands, women are carving out their own paths – proving that skill, passion and ambition know no gender.

This shift is embodied by Natalie Reid, the newest franchisee of Greensleeves Lawn Care in Aberdeen. As she embarks on her journey as a business owner in the lawn care sector, Natalie’s story reflects the growing number of women redefining what leadership looks like in franchising and beyond.

After a career in the oil and gas industry and taking time out as a full-time mum, Natalie began working as an office administrator at Greensleeves. What she thought would be a comfortable job until retirement quickly turned into something much bigger. When the previous owner, Jim, approached her about taking over the business, Natalie saw the opportunity to build something for herself and her family.

“At the time, we hadn’t even considered running our own business, so it was a big decision. But the more we thought about it, the more we realised what an incredible opportunity it was – not just to secure my future but to grow the business even further. Jim pointed out that I was already so invested in the success of the business, and he was right. That’s when it really clicked for me.”

With the full support of her family and the Greensleeves network, Natalie officially became the owner in January. Despite the challenges that come with stepping into a leadership role, she quickly found her stride.

Now, just six weeks in, Natalie is already making her mark on Greensleeves Aberdeen. “I’ve been streamlining the office, refining operations and making the business my own. It’s incredibly rewarding to see everything take shape.”

As one of the few female franchisees in the lawn care sector, Natalie is determined to inspire more women to step into leadership roles within traditionally male-dominated industries. “We used to have a female technician, and customers would often be surprised – ‘Oh, a woman doing this job?’ Now, as an owner, I see the same reactions. There’s still this idea that women can’t run a business like this as well as men. But I know we can, and I’m determined to prove it. That’s why I’m actively looking to bring another female technician into the team – I’d love to see more women in this field.”

For any women considering a career in lawn care or franchising, Natalie has one clear message: “Don’t let the industry define what you can or can’t do. Running a lawn care franchise isn’t any harder for me than running any other business – it’s about your skills, leadership and determination, not the type of business.”

Cheryl Harper, Managing Director of Greensleeves Lawn Care, is proud to see women like Natalie paving the way in an industry traditionally dominated by men. “As a female MD in this sector, it’s incredibly inspiring to see more women stepping up and thriving in roles that were once seen as out of reach. Natalie’s journey is proof that leadership is about capability and vision, not gender. At Greensleeves, we’re committed to supporting all our franchisees in achieving their goals and I have no doubt Natalie will continue to inspire others.”

Interested and want to know more about Greensleeves Lawn Care?

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