October 15, 2010
Zimmermann’s Nursery and Supplies in Strathroy is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

The business was founded by John and Else Zimmermann in 1960. An open house took place on Sept. 21 with members of the trade helping the family celebrate the special occasion. A public celebration took place back in July. Photos were displayed throughout the garden centre reflecting the 50 year history of the business.

John and Else arrived from Romania in 1950, with John soon entering school to study horticulture. He then worked on a number of farms until deciding to start his own business, purchasing three-and-a-half acres in Strathroy.

John Jr. and Mary Zimmermann now run the garden centre, and Tony and Tina Zimmermann operate the wholesale nursery.

The special anniversary celebration was covered by the Strathroy Age Dispatch. The newspaper quotes John Jr., "I worked here all my life, ever since I was a kid. That a business can last for 50 years means a lot to me."

John Jr. said that business has been good this summer. He noted that the main reasons for 50 years at success are the attention to quality, and relationships with the customers. He is quoted as saying, "Mom and dad were always fussy with workmanship and honest with people. That means a lot."

John and Else Zimmermann have two children, John and Tony, and six grandchildren.

Zimmermann's Landscape Nursery and Supplies has been an active member of Landscape Ontario since 1978.