How Two Entrepreneurs Leaned on Their Experience, Connections and WSFS Bank to Grow Their Business

With two local businesses under his belt at age 22, Ethan Seeley, knew he would need a banking partner that believed in the third venture vision – an existing business purchase.

Having started his first business with a shovel and a lawnmower, Ethan had quickly grown a reputation in the Malvern, Pa., area as a talented and reliable landscaper. So, the natural next step was to purchase a business to become a supplier for landscapers, both professional and DIYers.

“Mulch and More had been in business for more than 20 years and we had a unique opportunity to purchase it from the previous owners,” explains Ethan. “After starting two service businesses on my own, adding a third that was already established was appealing.”

As a former wrestler with Great Valley High School in Malvern, Ethan reached out to another Great Valley wrestling alum and former coach, Carl Buchholz, when he saw on LinkedIn that he is an SBA Relationship Manager at WSFS Bank.

The group met for coffee and to discuss their plan and vision for Mulch and More’s future. The first step was to secure funding, and within a month they were finalizing their loan details with Carl.

“Carl was instrumental in helping us secure the loan to purchase Mulch and More,” says Ethan. “He understood the dedication and investment we had already made, and our local roots were a perfect match with WSFS Bank.”

Adds Carl, “Ethan brought a great business plan to the table, and when we can support local small business owners’ growth by meeting their lending and banking needs, it is a boost for the entire community. Ethan has built a loyal customer base through ‘bootstrapping’ and his entrepreneurial spirit, so the natural progression to buy an existing business was a great fit for us, too.”

Now proud owner of Mulch and More, Ethan is ready to forge ahead to an even bigger and brighter future.

“We have much work to do,” says Ethan. “We’re focusing on strategic growth by modernizing our systems, really developing our social media presence, and adding more products and locations so we can provide an even better experience for our customers.”

“We’re looking forward to working with Carl and the WSFS team, growing together to service greater southeastern Pennsylvania.”

“Check out our website SHOPMULCH.com this spring to order all your material needs for your next home improvement project,” said Ethan. “We look forward to servicing your garden.”