As seen in the Tried & True Fall 2024 issue
Jobie Watson, owner of Twin Oaks Environmental, is no stranger to business adversity; competing in the crowded market of environmental solutions, the odds were stacked against him. Dominated by industry giants, the company faced an uphill battle just to secure a foothold in the industry. But what may have been a struggle for survival, soon turned into a story of resilience and innovation. Founded by his father, Jay Watson, in 2003 and originally based out of Central Florida, the father and son duo partnered up and relocated Twin Oaks Environmental to Opelika, Alabama in 2009. Despite the challenges, the Watsons refused to back down, finding ways to not only stay in the game but to lead with quality and customer service.
Challenges and Discoveries
The journey to success for Twin Oaks Environmental has been anything but smooth. Early on, the company found itself in the shadow of a dominant pipe manufacturer that seemed to control the market. Competing against such a giant was a daunting task, and for a time, it felt as though Twin Oaks was being pushed to the fringes, struggling to maintain a presence in an increasingly competitive industry.
Amid these challenges, a turning point emerged. In the midst of searching for ways to stay competitive, Jobie discovered a game-changing alternative–Fratco’s pipe products. Unlike the monopoly-like company that had edged out smaller competitors, Fratco’s offerings not only matched but often exceeded the quality and performance of what Twin Oaks had previously used. This discovery wasn’t just a stroke of luck; it was the beginning of a new chapter for Twin Oaks, one that allowed them to reclaim their place in the market with confidence.
A Partnership Begins
The partnership between Twin Oaks Environmental and Fratco officially took root in the fall of 2019, marking the start of a relationship that would impact both companies. However, the road to collaboration was not without its bumps. The geographical distance between Opelika and Fratco’s facilities posed significant logistical challenges, especially since Twin Oaks was required to utilize flat bed trailers and needed Fratco to adapt to a new pipe bundling system that not only allowed the orders to be staged before the trucks arrived to the factory, but also allowed for the bundles to safely be shipped throughout the Southeast. Despite initial setbacks–delays, coordination issues and the need for meticulous planning–the determination of both teams paid off. Soon enough, Fratco’s high-quality pipe was making its way to Twin Oaks without a hitch, solidifying a partnership built on trust and mutual respect.
Innovating Projects with Fratco Products
One of the most remarkable outcomes of this partnership was the successful execution of a large-scale project that tested the limits of innovation. A new sports complex required an advanced underground drainage system, and the initial plan called for a concrete vault–a traditional but costly and labor-intensive solution. Seeing an opportunity to improve both efficiency and cost-effectiveness, Twin Oaks proposed an alternative: Fratco’s ProCorr, dual-wall HDPP pipe.
This proposal wasn’t just about saving money; it was about rethinking how municipal drainage systems could be designed and installed. ProCorr’s lightweight yet durable design eliminated the need for heavy cranes and extensive manual labor, dramatically cutting down both the project timeline and the overall cost. Twin Oaks worked closely with Fratco and another supplier–Xerxes, an underground liquid storage tank manufacturer–to develop and approve the design. The engineers overseeing the project, after careful consideration and detailed submittals, gave their approval, paving the way for a solution that was as innovative as it was practical.
The success of this project not only showcased the technical prowess of Twin Oaks and Fratco but also set a new standard for future undertakings. It was a testament to what can be achieved when companies work together, combining their strengths to overcome challenges and create something truly exceptional.
Relationships That Drive Results
The bond between Twin Oaks Environmental and Fratco goes beyond business transactions; it’s rooted in a shared commitment to excellence and a genuine connection between the people involved. This was evident during a memorable visit last winter when Fratco leaders Chris Overmyer and Craig Douglass flew out to Opelika to meet with Jobie and his team. The visit wasn’t just about discussing business; it was an opportunity to build a deeper relationship. For Jobie, this visit was a defining moment. “To just meet and build a relationship says a lot,” he reflected.
I’ve rarely met anyone above a salesman with our other suppliers. There’s a closer relationship with Fratco…
For Jobie, it’s not just about the quality of the products but also about the people behind them—their accessibility, their willingness to listen and their commitment to finding solutions that work.
The journey of Twin Oaks Environmental is a shining example of how strong partnerships can drive success. From overcoming initial challenges to collaborating on innovative projects, the relationship between Twin Oaks and Fratco is built on a foundation of mutual respect, flexibility and a shared vision for excellence.
