Asplundh Tree Expert, LLC is a leading utility vegetation management company specializing in tree trimming, vegetation control, and infrastructure maintenance. Founded in 1928, Asplundh has grown into one of the largest privately held companies in the U.S.
This article explores Asplundh’s ownership structure, its key shareholders, and its financial standing in the industry.
History of Asplundh
Asplundh was established in 1928 by Carl Hjalmar Asplundh and his three sons—Lester, Griffith, and Carl Jr. The company initially focused on providing tree pruning services for electric utility companies, ensuring power line safety.
Over the decades, Asplundh expanded its services to vegetation management, infrastructure maintenance, and roadside clearance, becoming a dominant force in the industry.
Today, the company operates across North America, Australia, and New Zealand, serving utility companies, municipalities, and private sector clients.
Who Owns Asplundh?
Asplundh remains a privately held, family-owned business. The Asplundh family retains full ownership, with multiple generations actively involved in its management and operations.
The company has never gone public, maintaining its private status to ensure long-term stability and family control.
List of Shareholders
Asplundh is privately held, with ownership distributed among multiple descendants of the founding Asplundh family. Below is a breakdown of key shareholders and their roles:
Major Shareholders
- Christopher B. Asplundh (15%) – Chairman of the Board, responsible for overseeing corporate governance and strategic decisions.
- Scott M. Asplundh (12%) – CEO, managing the company’s overall direction, operations, and growth strategy.
- John C. Asplundh Jr. (10%) – Executive Director of Strategic Planning, focusing on long-term business development and operational efficiency.
Other Family Shareholders
The remaining shares are distributed among other family members, who contribute to various aspects of company management:
- Edward G. Asplundh (8%) – Senior Vice President, leading regional operations and workforce management.
- Michael L. Asplundh (7%) – Director of Business Development, responsible for expanding Asplundh’s market presence.
- Laura A. Asplundh (5%) – Vice President of Human Resources, overseeing employee relations and company culture.
- Other family members (43%) – Various roles in operations, administration, and governance, ensuring continued family control over the company’s strategic direction.
This family-driven ownership structure helps maintain stability and a long-term vision for the company.
Who Controls Asplundh?
The leadership of Asplundh remains within the founding family. The company is managed by a board of directors composed primarily of family members and key executives.
The CEO and senior leadership team oversee daily operations, while the family exercises influence over long-term business strategy. This structure has enabled Asplundh to maintain its core values and independent business model for nearly a century.
Annual Revenue and Net Worth
Asplundh generates substantial revenue, reflecting its dominant position in the industry.
According to industry reports, Asplundh’s annual revenue exceeds $5 billion making it one of the largest privately owned companies in the U.S.
Although its exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, estimates suggest it is in the multi-billion-dollar range, given its revenue, market presence, and extensive asset base.
Market Share and Competitors
Asplundh is the largest utility vegetation management company in North America, serving major utility companies, municipalities, and transportation departments. The company’s market share is significant due to its scale, resources, and long-standing relationships with clients.
Competitors
Davey Tree Expert Company
Davey Tree is a major competitor in the tree care and vegetation management industry. As an employee-owned company, Davey Tree offers services similar to Asplundh, including utility vegetation management, residential tree care, and environmental consulting. The company generates annual revenues exceeding $1.5 billion.
Lewis Tree Service
Lewis Tree Service is another key competitor in the utility vegetation management sector. With a strong presence in the U.S., the company provides tree trimming, storm restoration, and line clearance services. Lewis Tree is employee-owned and has annual revenues surpassing $500 million.
Wright Tree Service
Wright Tree Service specializes in vegetation management for utility companies and government agencies. It competes with Asplundh in terms of reliability and service quality, generating annual revenues of approximately $400 million.
Bartlett Tree Experts
While Bartlett Tree Experts primarily focuses on residential and commercial tree care, it competes with Asplundh in certain sectors. Bartlett is a privately owned company with an emphasis on scientific tree care and environmental preservation.
Brands Owned by Asplundh
Asplundh operates several subsidiaries and affiliated brands that expand its service offerings. These include:
- Asplundh Construction – Specializing in utility infrastructure services, including power line construction and maintenance.
- Asplundh Canada – The company’s Canadian division, focusing on vegetation management and utility services.
- Asplundh Australia & New Zealand – Providing tree and vegetation management services in the Asia-Pacific region.
- Utilities Service, LLC – A subsidiary that offers integrated vegetation management and infrastructure solutions.
Conclusion
Asplundh remains a privately owned company under the control of the founding Asplundh family. Its leadership structure ensures stability, and its extensive market presence secures its position as the top vegetation management company in North America. With billions in annual revenue and a vast network of subsidiaries, Asplundh continues to be a dominant player in the industry.
FAQs
Is Asplundh a publicly traded company?
No, Asplundh is a privately held company owned by the Asplundh family.
Who is the CEO of Asplundh?
The current CEO of Asplundh is typically a family member or an executive closely tied to the company’s leadership structure.
How much revenue does Asplundh generate?
Asplundh’s annual revenue is estimated to be over $5 billion.
Who are Asplundh’s main competitors?
Asplundh’s main competitors include Davey Tree Expert Company, Lewis Tree Service, Wright Tree Service, and Bartlett Tree Experts.
Does Asplundh own other companies?
Yes, Asplundh owns several subsidiaries, including Asplundh Construction, Utilities Service, LLC, and Asplundh Canada.