TºCool Partner Spotlight
Mitch Katz @ The Turf Exchange - Camarillo, CA
Jacob: Mitch, Can you tell us a little bout yourself? What made you enter into the synthetic turf industry?
Mitch: After successfully running Katzin Leather Inc. for 28 years, I made the decision to sell the company and embrace retirement. However, retirement didn't last long, as I soon recognized the pressing need for water conservation in California. Witnessing the artificial-looking turf options available at the time, I saw an opportunity to make a difference.
Motivated by the desire to create more environmentally friendly alternatives, my team and I set out to develop innovative turf products that would appear and feel remarkably natural. Our goal was to offer turf solutions that not only conserved water but also enhanced the beauty of landscapes and provided a sustainable alternative to traditional options.
Through dedication and ingenuity, we successfully designed turf products that were highly realistic and eco-friendly. The journey from Katzin Leather Inc. to the development of our own natural-looking turf was an inspiring transformation, and we are proud to contribute positively to water conservation efforts in California and beyond.
Our commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility continues to drive us as we strive to provide the best natural-looking turf solutions for our customers.
Jacob: Any favorite turf memories?
Mitch: One of the most cherished moments in my turf business journey was in 2015 when water companies started offering enticing $3.00 per square foot rebates for artificial grass installations. The response was overwhelming, and the phones were ringing off the hook. It was an exhilarating time for our company as the demand surged, and we felt the gratification of contributing to water conservation efforts.
In addition to that exciting period, I had the pleasure of working on some remarkable projects, including installing turf at the residences of renowned personalities like Jennifer Lopez, Ty Warner (the creator of Beanie Babies), Erin Brockovich, and Trey Parker (the creative mind behind South Park). Meeting these celebrities was always a delight and added a touch of excitement to our turf projects.
These memories are truly treasured, and they serve as a reminder of the fulfilling and gratifying experiences that the turf business has brought into my life. The journey has been marked with success, unique opportunities, and unforgettable encounters with inspiring individuals. I look forward to creating more wonderful memories as we continue to thrive in the turf industry.
For more information and project photos, visit Turf Exchange .
Jacob: Where do you see the synthetic turf industry going in the next 5 years?
Mitch: I firmly believe that we are witnessing the dawn of a significant movement in the turf industry. Artificial grass technology is continually advancing, leading to remarkable improvements in its quality and appearance. As water becomes increasingly scarce, the demand for water-efficient solutions like artificial grass is becoming more urgent.
The harmful effects of chemical fertilizers, weed killers, and emissions from lawn equipment on our environment are undeniable. By embracing artificial grass, we have a unique opportunity to reduce our reliance on these damaging substances, thereby promoting a healthier and more eco-friendly approach to landscaping.
The turf industry plays a pivotal role in advocating for sustainable practices and environmental preservation. As we continue to innovate and enhance our products, the positive impact on water conservation and the protection of our natural resources will be profound. Together, we can lead the way towards a greener future, where artificial grass contributes significantly to the preservation of our environment.
Jacob: Why doe Turf Exchange use TºCool Infill?
Mitch: Every day, we conduct a minimum of 10 estimates, and without fail, the first question we encounter is, "Does turf get hot?"
To this, we provide an honest response: "Yes, it does."
However, we are excited to share that with TºCool®, we now have an excellent solution that addresses this concern effectively.