Scotts Miracle-Gro Names 3 Operating Office Execs

MARYSVILLE, Ohio (AP) — Lawn and garden products maker Scotts Miracle-Gro Co. named three regional operating office leaders Monday as part of its plan to drive the long-term growth of its core consumer business.

"The establishment of these regional teams allows our business to better meet the local needs of lawn and garden consumers," President and Chief Operating Officer Mark Baker said in a statement.

Mike Lukemire will be in charge of the company's Southeast region. He previously served as executive vice president of global technologies and operations.

Jim Tates will head up the Southwest region, while Phil Jones handles the West Coast. Tates recently served as vice president of store operations, overseeing Scotts' in-store field sales force. Jones recently led the company's Roundup business.

Lukemire, Tates and Jones will all report to Barry Sanders, executive vice president of North American operations.

The offices will be located in West Palm Beach, Fla., Houston and Orange County, Calif. and will develop and implement sales and marketing strategies for their regions.

Scotts is hoping to improve its market share in each region, which is about 40 percent — more than 10 points lower than the rest of the U.S. This boost in market share should push incremental sales of $300 million to $500 million over the next several years, the company said.

Shares of Scotts Miracle-Gro fell 22 cents to $40.91 in afternoon trading.