Scotts Miracle-Gro names SVP independent channel

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Co. has appointed Phil Jones, formerly president of its west coast region, to lead its retail channel for independent garden centers and hardware co-op stores as SVP independent channel.



"We continue to refine our business model to build key capabilities and improve our competitiveness to meet our long-term goal of driving category growth and enhancing our industry leadership," said Barry Sanders, president and chief operating officer. "While independent garden centers and hardware co-ops were the initial drivers of growth for our business, our performance in this channel has not met expectations in recent years.



Jones was named regional president in June 2009, responsible for leading the company's business development, marketing and sales efforts in the western United States. Jones' focus on independent garden centers and hardware co-op stores resulted in the top sales growth for the region within this channel for the past several years. Previously, Jones was VP consumer roundup.



Reporting to Jones will be Stephen Markert, VP channel sales, who will oversee independent garden center sales and marketing strategies. Josh Meihls, director of national accounts will oversee hardware co-op sales and marketing.