Suburban Waste Services recently transitioned from solely residential to commercial services. "Three years ago, there was growing demand from our residential customers who wanted us to handle their commercial waste as well. Greg, who introduced me to the company, lead our entry into this new space," explained Chris White, reflecting on the decision to expand Suburban Waste Services into commercial waste management. 

Suburban Waste Services' Pet-Friendly Approach 

At Suburban Waste Services (SWS), their customer service approach extends beyond human clients, including their furry friends. One of the unique practices that sets SWS apart is their thoughtful gesture towards pets, particularly dogs. 

When SWS drivers service residential areas, they go the extra mile by placing a dog biscuit on top of the garbage cans after emptying them. This simple act has significant positive implications. Pet owners appreciate the consideration shown towards their pets. It reflects a company culture that values not only their clients but also their entire household, pets included. The practice of leaving dog biscuits has become a well-known and appreciated aspect of SWS’s service. It fosters a sense of community and connection between the company and its customers. It is a small touch that leaves an impression. 

During company events like holiday parties, dogs are featured in the company’s activities and photos, wearing SWS-branded bandanas, or participating in fun activities. This further reinforces the bond between the company, its employees, and the community they serve. 

Services, Customer Service, & Competitive Pricing 

Chris White discusses the range of services they provide to commercial clients, emphasizing the evolving needs in waste management. He highlights that while trash and recycling are standard offerings, there has been a noticeable increase in demand for organic disposal recently. According to Chris, "Organics has come on in the last few years. It is getting more popular. People are looking at that and trying it out commercially.”  

Chris discusses the positive impact of being a family-owned business that started in Eden Prairie on their approach to serving both residential and commercial clients. He highlights, "Being a family-owned local company is a huge positive, because it shows we care more. Our customers aren’t just another number to us." Chris explains that unlike larger corporations where customers may feel disconnected, Suburban Waste Services prioritizes personalized service and responsiveness. He notes, "People want to work with local companies as much as possible. That's a cool thing." This local connection, according to Chris, has strengthened over the years, reflecting a commitment to community and customer satisfaction. 

Suburban Waste Services distinguishes itself through responsive customer service and competitive pricing, contrasting it with larger competitors. Chris states, "To set ourselves apart, I think that response time to anything, any issue or anything that needs to be done we have someone there to answer the phone and help solve the problem. In terms of price, we're very competitive." Chris highlights their flexibility in pricing and service agreements, ensuring affordability and customer satisfaction. He emphasizes their approach to waste management, mentioning, "Suburban Waste Services does not charge contamination fees," a policy that sets them apart from others in the industry. Chris underscores their commitment to providing tailored solutions and reliable service to commercial clients, reflecting their local, customer-focused ethics. 

Teamwork + Customer-Centric Operations 

Chris describes the cohesive teamwork and customer-centric approach at Suburban Waste Services, highlighting the crucial role of their dedicated team. He states, "They're all good people." Chris emphasizes how every department, from operations to customer service and their drivers, collaborates seamlessly to ensure efficient service delivery. He emphasizes their proactive communication and responsiveness to customer needs, illustrating a commitment to reliability and customer satisfaction throughout their operations. 

He states, "We'll adjust pricing sometimes, but it's really about educating them on what is the bottom line that you're really paying per month." This quote highlights their commitment to clarity in pricing, contrasting their approach with competitors who may hide additional fees. Chris also emphasizes the company's familial atmosphere and employee satisfaction, illustrating how these factors contribute to their exceptional customer service and client loyalty. 

In conclusion, Chris and Suburban Waste Services embody a refreshing blend of entrepreneurial spirit and community-focused values within the waste management industry. From their inclusive pet-friendly practices to their responsive customer service and competitive pricing strategies, SWS sets itself apart as a local, family-owned business committed to both client satisfaction and employee well-being. As Chris sums it up, "At Suburban Waste Services, we're not just managing waste; we're building relationships and nurturing a sense of belonging in the communities we serve." Their story is a testament to the power of personalized service and genuine care in business—a standard that continues to define their success and distinguish them in the marketplace. 

More Information: https://www.suburbanwastemn.com/

If you're interested in having an interview for a member blog, please email Grace Leapaldt at grace.leapaldt@epchamber.org for more details!