GTN September 2025 – Bumper Glee Preview. In this issue: Westland Glee Preview Special, GTN’s Exclusive Interview with Alan Roper, AMES are back on track for 2026, Art in bone china from Museums & Galleries, Zest have awards winning flexibility, Vitavia are the smart choice, GTN’s 34 page Glee 2025 Show preview: Glee floor plan and where to meet Team GTN, What’s on at Glee 2025, Glee Exhibitor News – Latest products and services, Floral Thursday FUNdraising at Glee, Hozelock’s Solar Select watering system, Fandango Fire Tools light up Glee, GTN Planteria – Inspiration from Ball, PATS 2025, Are you up for change? Paul Pleydell viewpoint, HTA Viewpoint – Getting out and about, GIMA Viewpoint – The perfect time to reconnect.

On-line votes are pouring in for GTN's Greatest Garden Centre Food & Drink Team Awards, and paper votes in their thousands are being collected in garden centre restaurants and cafes too.

As of last weeked the top ten Food & Drink Teams in the on-line voting were:

1. Meadowcroft Garden Centre
2. Old Railway Line
3. Perrywood Sudbury
4. Perrywood Tiptree
5. Charlecote Garden Centre
6. Crown Garden Centre Whitley
7. Perrywood Buckhatch
8. Charlbury Garden Centre
9. Crawley Garden Centre
10. Thetford Garden Centre

Customers can vote on-line using the QR code, accessed by this link, up until midnight on 7th September when those votes will be combiuned with the in-store collected votes to find out who the winners are.  The winners will be announced during Glee on Wednesday 17th September at 5:00pm on the Feed Your Business Stage.

When your food & drink teams are collecting in-store voting forms (link to forms artwork here) please send them in in batches to:

The Greatest Food & Drink Awards

Garden Trade News

Potting Shed Press 

Dairy House, 8 Dairy Drove

Thorney

Peterborough

PE6 0TX

For in-store paper votes to be counted in the final result they need to be received at the GTN offices by Wednesday 10th September.

Your customers will be the judges of Greatness.

As customer service and customer satisfaction are the keys to the ongoing success of garden centre catering, the winners of The Greatest Food & Drink Team awards will be decided by the number and quality of customer votes your teams receive before the closing date of September 7^th 2025.

Your customers can vote online by scanning the QR code or you can get them to vote in store and then send completed voting forms to the GTN office for counting.

To get your customers voting, all you have to do is download the voting posters and voting forms artwork from the links below  display them in your restaurant or coffee shop and add voting links into your websites and social media pages.

GTN's Greatest Food & Drink Team Awards Voting Poster

GTN's Greatest Food & Drink Team Awards Voting Forms

GTN's Greatest Food & Drink Team Awards Voting QR Code

Or, access the poster, voting forms and QR code via this dropbox link

As well as overall Greatest Food & Drink Team Awards for different sizes of garden centre catering operations there will be regional awards too.  What better way to promote your Food & Drink offerings during the Autumn than with a GTN Greatest Awards win, especially as it will be thanks to your customers.

Customer voting is live now and runs until midnight on Sunday 7^th September, when the votes will be counted in readiness for the presentations at Glee.

Do you serve The Greatest Garden Centre Afternoon Tea?

One of the most eagerly sought after catering awards that GTN ran in the past was for The Greatest Afternoon Tea Team.  The judges really had a tough job going out and tasing them all!

This year, if you believe your team currently serve The Greatest Garden Centre Afternoon Tea, you have the opportunity of bringing your Afternoon Tea to Glee to be displayed on the “Feed Your Business Stage” and judged by a panel of experts who will decide an overall Afternoon Tea Team winner plus regional awards too.  The judges will also be looking for The Greatest Garden Centre Scone, and The Greatest Garden Centre Traybake within the Afternoon Teas displayed.  Both sweet and savoury Afternoon Teas can be entered.

The competition takes place at 3:00pm on Wednesday 17^th September with the entered Afternoon Teas taking pride of place on the “Feed your Business Stage”.  There will be a food prep area available for your team to compile your Afternoon Tea ready for display and judging.

To reserve your teams place in the display and be in with a chance of winning The Greatest Garden Centre Afternoon Tea Award please send an e-mail to Trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk stating why you think your team should be part of the competition. Closing date for Afternoon Tea entries is Friday 5th September 2025.

Who has The Greatest Catering Support Team?

Every good garden centre Food & Drink operation is only as good as the back of house support they get from their Wash-up teams, their Marketing Teams and increasingly their EPOS teams.

This award is for The Greatest teams that keep it all going without ever being seen by the customers.  For that reason, to enter your Catering Support Teams all you need to do is send an e-mail by Friday 5th September to trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk with:

• photos of the team
• their names and roles
• plus a 200 word citation as to why they should be crowned The Greatest Garden Centre Catering Support Team at Glee on Wednesday 17^th September at 5:00pm.

We can’t wait to receive your nominations Closing date for Support Tea entries is Friday 5th September 2025.

Altico Garden Products have been adding character and charm into UK gardens this season with their Stone Merchant British Wildlife & Nature Stepping Stones. Featuring eight exclusive designs across two themed collections, these beautifully crafted stepping stones are perfect for garden centres looking to offer customers something truly distinctive.

British Nature

Featuring four floral etched illustrations, the British Nature Stepping Stones add a unique natural feel to outdoor spaces. Built to last many gardening seasons, they will add character for years to come. The natural barley stone-effect finish provides a timeless look for each of the four beautiful stepping stone designs - Wildflower, Sunflower, Butterfly, and Bee.

British Wildlife

The British Wildlife Stepping Stones allows customers to bring a 'Wildlife Feel' into their gardens. Featuring four stunning depictions of British wildlife, these stepping stones add a unique and picturesque element to any garden. Built to withstand the elements, they ensure long-lasting beauty and functionality. The natural stone-effect finish provides a timeless look whether it is the Robin, Hedgehog, Hare, or Owl design. 

Landscaping Innovators

Combining durable materials with artistic detail, these stepping stones aren’t just decorative, they’re conversation pieces that invite customers to connect with nature in their own back gardens.

As the leading innovators for the landscaping category, Altico are proud to provide Garden Centres with quality solutions to make beautiful outdoor spaces. These solutions are not just good ideas, they are delivered in the best format for retail. This is why the British Nature and British Wildlife collections are available as a mixed pallet of four designs, allowing retailers to showcase variety while streamlining stock management. This also allows garden enthusiasts to buy a mix of the designs to create an enchanting walkway.

With designs exclusive to Altico, garden centres can confidently stand out with a range that celebrates conservation and creative landscaping.

The popularity of these collections has sparked range development for the 2026 season, which is set to be unveiled at the upcoming Glee exhibition thismonth. Come and see the Altico team at Glee Birmingham September 16th-18th 2025 (Stand 10F51–G50) who will be presenting the next phase of exciting natural paving innovations. Alternatively, you can contact the Altico team today about becoming a stockist - salesoffice@altico.co.uk.

In May 2025, G Plants officially changed its name to Bees Seeds Limited, beginning the next exciting chapter in the company’s journey. Under the guidance of Carly Jackson, appointed Group Managing Director in July 2024, the business has embraced this rebrand as a bold step forward, aligning with its mission to inspire and support growers everywhere. 
 

Carly said: “As our strapline says, we’re buzzing about growing. For me, this rebrand is about making sure our products are truly accessible – no matter someone’s level of experience, the space they have available, or their budget. We’re developing a range where there’s something for everyone. 
 

"My passion is to spread the joy of growing, and Bees Seeds gives us the perfect platform to do that. With the creativity and energy of the team behind me, I’m proud to put my stamp on the business and excited to lead us into this new chapter – helping more people than ever connect with nature and experience the reward of growing.” 

Visitors to Glee can discover Bees Seeds’ new 2026 product range in the GIMA area and grab a goodie bag from the sales team: 

• Adam Pindus – National Account Manager 
• Andy Lewis – Regional Account Manager 
• Vicky Hunter – Customer Engagement Manager 

For more information, and to see everything Bees Seeds has to offer, please contact: sales@bees-seeds.com 

And keep an eye out for our new website launching soon: www.bees-seeds.com 

Leading specialist design and business consultancy Pleydell Smithyman is celebrating its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of collaboration with some of the UK’s most innovative and successful garden centres.

Since its founding in August 1995, the consultancy has worked closely with independent and family-run businesses to transform garden centres into thriving destinations. Combining strategic insight, creative design, and hands-on operational experience, Pleydell Smithyman has played a pivotal role in the sector’s evolution — from traditional plant retail to dynamic lifestyle destinations offering food, leisure, and community experiences.

“Garden centres have always been at the heart of our journey,” said Paul Pleydell, Founder and Director at Pleydell Smithyman. “We’re immensely proud to have supported so many businesses in realising their ambitions — whether through innovative design, business strategy, or guiding generational transitions.”

"This anniversary is not only a celebration of our story, but also a tribute to the incredible people and businesses we’ve been privileged to work with over the past three decades.”

Over the last 30 years, the multidisciplinary team at Pleydell Smithyman has delivered more than 3,000 projects across the UK and Ireland, receiving numerous awards for both design excellence and commercial success. Renowned for their sector expertise, the consultancy has helped garden centres, food retail, and rural businesses adapt to changing consumer trends — from sustainability and destination retailing to future-proofing strategies.

Looking ahead, Pleydell Smithyman remains committed to championing the garden centre industry, ensuring these businesses continue to flourish as vibrant, sustainable, and customer-focused destinations for generations to come.

Find them at Glee on 16th-18th of September on stand 11D80.

Businesswoman, broadcaster, author and activist Mary Portas OBE will be speaking about retail at the Garden Centre Association’s (GCA) annual conference at Carden Park Chester on Tuesday, January 27 (January 25-28, 2026).

Mary made her name creating change and in 2024 she was awarded an OBE for her services to business, broadcasting and charity in the King’s New Year Honours’ list.

GCA Chairman Elect and Operations Director of Haskins Garden Centres, Ben Harrison, who is organising the conference with GCA CEO Peter Burks, explains: “Aged 30, Mary became a board member at Harvey Nichols before founding her own retail consultancy. She has since worked with some of the biggest names in global retail and we’re very excited she has agreed to be one of our keynote speakers for our 2026 conference. We’re also delighted that our associate member Evergreen Garden Care has very generously agreed to sponsor Mary for our event.

“Her BBC series – Mary Queen of Shops – premiered in 2007 and she has presented on television and radio for the BBC and Channel 4 ever since. In 2009, she partnered with Save The Children to reinvent charity shops. To date, the 26 Mary’s Living & Giving shops nationwide have raised more than £30 million for charity. She also conducted a review of the future for high streets for the British government in 2011.”

Mary is the author of three books: an autobiography Shop Girl (2015) and two non-fiction books - Work Like A Woman: A Manifesto (2018) which looks at the restructuring how we work for the future; and Rebuild: how to thrive in the new Kindness Economy (2021). The Kindness Economy podcast was #1 on the business chart.

Peter Burks, GCA CEO, says: “Our 2026 conference explores the theme of ‘Growing a Better Future’ with a focus on profitability, sustainability and innovation in the industry, so Mary will fit in brilliantly.”

As co-chair of the Better Business Act, Mary heads a coalition of businesses calling for a change in the law to ensure UK companies align their interests with those of wider society and the environment.

In addition to presenting two series of ‘Portas: On Style’ for BBC Radio 4, Mary is also a podcaster – in her latest series ‘Beautiful Misfits’ she interviews fellow changemakers taking the imaginative leap to create a better world.

Most recently, Mary took on the government with Kevin McCloud & Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall in The Great Climate Fight on CH4.

Peter adds: “To find out more and book tickets, please go to the conference pages on our website members’ section or via https://gca.digitickets.co.uk/. There is also a dedicated email conference@gca.org.uk for any queries anyone may have. If non-members would like to join us, so they can attend, please email info@gca.org.uk.”  

The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide.

Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

The 2026 GCA Conference takes place at Carden Park Chester from January 25 until 28.

For further information and to book tickets for the 2026 GCA Conference, please visit www.gca.org.uk.

Caragh Nurseries, a well-established, family-run plant nursery and a leading supplier of mature trees and shrubs across the UK and Ireland, has acquired Earlswood Garden & Landscape Centre, a Midlands-based plant nursery garden centre, and manufacturer and supplier of landscaping products.

The acquisition brings together two complementary businesses to create a group with broad geographical coverage across the UK and Ireland. 

By combining Caragh’s established plant nursery operations with Earlswood’s strong retail and B2B client base, the group will operate across the full value chain and be well positioned to increase its market share in both regions.

The acquisition was backed by Beechbrook Capital, a specialist lender to small and medium-sized businesses, which has completed a senior debt investment in Caragh Nurseries.

Caragh Nurseries is led by husband and wife team Ian and Jo McGarry (pictured above).

Jo McGarry, Caragh Shareholder and Head of Marketing, commented: “Beechbrook’s support has been instrumental in unlocking this next chapter for Caragh. With their backing, we’re well placed to grow our UK and Irish presence under two brands with strong local reputations, elevate group performance and enhance margins across the group via a range of strategic and operational endeavours.”

Richard Smart, Head of UK Investments at Beechbrook Capital, added: “Caragh is a high-quality business with an ambitious management team that have a clear growth strategy. We are delighted to support this acquisition and look forward to working alongside the team as they expand their footprint and realise the full potential of the combined group.”

Following confirmation that The Underground Podcast will return as Glee’s official podcast partner in 2025, we caught up with host Phil Wright to find out more about what visitors can expect from the team this year.

“The response we had at last year’s show was incredible,” says Phil, who co-hosts the podcast alongside horticultural consultant Kate Turner. “We wanted to build on that momentum, and 2025 gives us the chance to do even more. We’ll be back on the show floor with our booth and across the three days we’ll be offering exclusive access to the voices shaping the future of garden retail.”

The conversations will range widely, from start-ups bringing fresh ideas to market through to established businesses reimagining themselves for the future. Phil and Kate will explore how innovation and product development are shaping the sector, what changing customer habits mean for garden centres and suppliers, and how the next generation of leaders is stepping into the spotlight. Guests will also be asked to reflect on the role of purpose in modern retail, from sustainability and inclusivity through to education, and to look ahead at what the industry most needs to change over the next five years.

Alongside the interviews, Phil will take to the Hyve Stage to host a highly anticipated live Q&A with Alan Roper, Managing Director of Blue Diamond, which will also be recorded and released as a special episode. “That session is going to be a real highlight,” Phil adds. “Alan has such a strong track record in the industry, and it will be fascinating to hear his views in front of a live audience.”

New for this year, the Underground team will also step away from the booth on Wednesday afternoon bringing listeners closer to the Glee experience. Armed with their microphones, Phil and Kate will be out and about meeting exhibitors and visitors, offering listeners an authentic taste of the buzz that defines Glee.

Exhibitors who want their story heard not just at Glee but across the wider industry can visit The Underground stand 9L60 to pitch their story. “We’re always looking for compelling stories that the industry will want to hear. We’ll also be starting to plan our next season of interviews, so Glee is the perfect time to talk to us about that.”

With ten weekly episodes rolling out after the show, The Underground will ensure that the conversations started at Glee keep inspiring the industry long after the NEC doors close. Discover more from The Underground podcast at www.theunderground.fm

Find out more

Glee 2025 promises garden buyers an unrivalled opportunity to discover an exceptional mix of new, returning and long-standing exhibitors. From fresh innovation to trusted favourites, the show is the ultimate destination to explore the latest products, connect with industry leaders, and gain valuable insights into emerging trends. Make sure to mark your diaries for 16th – 18th September 2025 and be part of the event that continues to define the future of garden retail.

For more information or to register your interest in exhibiting, visit www.gleebirmingham.com or call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

With just three weeks to go until the doors open on the 2025 edition of Glee, the UK’s leading garden, pet and outdoor living trade show, the garden retail sector is busy preparing to make the most of three action-packed days at the NEC Birmingham (16th – 18th September).

One of the easiest ways for both visitors and exhibitors to maximise their time at the show is by using the all-new Glee App – a smart, intuitive event tool designed to make every moment count.

A personalised experience for visitors

For visitors, the Glee App acts as a pocket-sized event assistant. From the moment they log in, the app curates a personalised experience, suggesting the most relevant exhibitors, sessions and products to match their interests. The full agenda is available at their fingertips, making it easy to build a tailored schedule, bookmark talks, and plan meetings with suppliers and peers. An interactive floorplan ensures simple navigation around the NEC, while in-app chat and contact export tools mean new connections don’t end when the show does.

A powerful tool for exhibitors

Exhibitors benefit from a platform built to boost engagement and streamline lead management. The app allows teams to view and coordinate meetings, respond to company messages in real time, and track every visitor interaction. Contacts and leads can be exported instantly for seamless follow-up, helping businesses convert interest into long-term relationships.

Smart, seamless, strategic

What sets the Glee App apart is its ability to adapt. Powered by Grip’s AI, it learns from each user’s behaviour to deliver more accurate recommendations and networking opportunities, ensuring no one misses the connections that matter most.

How to get started

Getting started with the Glee App is simple:

1. Register for your free Glee 2025 ticket – access to the app is exclusive to registered attendees.
2. Download the app on the App Store, Google Play, or via desktop.
3. Log in using your registration credentials – you’ll receive an email with instructions to set your password.
4. Start exploring – build your agenda, schedule meetings, and discover exhibitors before you even arrive at the NEC.

Find out more

Glee 2025 promises garden buyers an unrivalled opportunity to discover an exceptional mix of new, returning and long-standing exhibitors. From fresh innovation to trusted favourites, the show is the ultimate destination to explore the latest products, connect with industry leaders, and gain valuable insights into emerging trends. Make sure to mark your diaries for 16th – 18th September 2025 and be part of the event that continues to define the future of garden retail.

For more information or to register your interest in exhibiting, visit www.gleebirmingham.com or call +44 (0)203 3545 9752

Walmart – the world’s largest retailer – has opened a new office in London to support the growing number of British businesses selling to US consumers via Walmart.com – Walmart’s dedicated online marketplace. To mark the occasion, all GIMA members are invited to attend a free, face-to-face launch event in central London on Tuesday 9th September.

The event will give GIMA members the opportunity to:

• Connect with Walmart Marketplace’s new UK team and fellow suppliers
• Explore the latest seller innovations unveiled at Walmart’s U.S. Seller Summit
• Gain valuable insights into building a successful omnichannel presence in the U.S.
• Share experiences and ideas with other businesses considering expansion into the U.S. market

Helping British brands succeed in the US
Walmart has made it significantly easier for UK and European companies to access the U.S. market, allowing businesses to register with a UK entity, manage accounts via a new Seller App, and protect intellectual property through the Brand Portal. Sellers can also take advantage of flexible fulfilment services, ship goods directly from Asia into Walmart warehouses, and access a growing network of solution providers for compliance, integration and logistics. The launch of the London office further strengthens Walmart’s commitment to supporting British brands on their journey to the U.S.

Vicky Nuttall, Director of GIMA, commented: “This is a fantastic opportunity for GIMA members to explore one of the world’s largest online marketplaces and gain first-hand advice on how to break into the U.S. market. We’re delighted to be working with Walmart Marketplace to connect our members with new international growth opportunities.”

Event registration
There is no limit on the number of tickets per business, and GIMA members are encouraged to share the event details with colleagues who may wish to attend.  To register, please visit https://cvent.me/5vYOMR

For an introduction to the Walmart Marketplace opportunity, members can also listen to this podcast: How to win on Walmart Marketplace, or visit the new LinkedIn page: Walmart Marketplace Europe

Find out more about GIMA

To see more events upcoming at GIMA, or for more information regarding membership, please visit www.gima.org.uk or contact the GIMA Press Office on (01959) 564947 or info@gima.org.uk

With colder weather approaching, there’s a big migration journey in store for many wild birds and they will all appreciate some extra support to help fuel up for their trip to warmer climes. Honeyfield’s resident wild bird expert Simon Smethurst, who is head of sales at Honeyfield’s, has produced some tips to help wild bird-loving customers to attract and support all the ‘birds without borders’ as they pass through, as well as those who stay in the UK all year round.

Many of Northen Europe and Scandinavia’s summer breeders will spend their winters in Africa but can be tempted to visit UK gardens in the autumn and winter with the right food sources and water supply. They will benefit from some extra nutritional support before they start to move further south as the colder weather takes a grip. 

“Initially migratory birds will eat berries, seeds and fruits from fields and hedgerows to build fat reserves prior to making their southward journey,” said Simon. “But once they start to move south, they will look out for supplementary feeds. During periods of colder weather and especially during freezing conditions, they will seek sanctuary and sustenance in gardens and there are several ways to encourage and support them.”

Finches

“The colourful finch family of bramblings, siskins, redpolls and chaffinches will move south over the north-sea in their thousands in the correct conditions, bringing a vibrant display to home spaces,” says Simon.

Attract them with: 

·       Low wheat seed mixes 

·       Sunflower hearts 

·       Niger feeders. 

Tits, Nuthatches, Treecreepers and Woodpeckers

“These species can be more secretive but often move from open woodland into domestic gardens in the autumn and winter, attracted by feeding stations containing high fat energy-boosting food,” advises Simon. “This will help them maintain good condition and feather quality to see them through the colder and wetter winter nights in the UK.” 

Attract them with:

·       Suet balls

·       Suet blocks

·       Suet pellets

Thrushes and winter warblers

Huge numbers of winter thrushes arrive in the UK from Scandinavia in autumn on their journey south into Europe and beyond to survive the colder weather. 

“Fieldfares and Redwings are bold, noisy and very attractive additions to any garden,” says Simon. “They utilise hedgerow berries on their journey but are predominantly ground feeders when they visit gardens. They are unable to hold onto or feed from a standard hanging bird feeders so food must be placed where they are able to access it.”

Attract them with:

·       High energy soft feeds (not seeds)

·       Windfall apples

·       Suet-based products such as scattered suet pellets on a lawn or a shed or garage roof 

Robins

“The robin that breeds and feeds in your customer’s garden during the summer, may not be the one who spends the winter there!” says Simon. 

“Thousands of birds may arrive as there is a progressive southward movement to avoid cold winter weather,” he continues. “These birds are more aggressive forest breeders and may oust regular robins from the territory. They are dependent on surviving the colder weather and will fight to maintain a regular food source.”

Attract them with:

·       Mealworms 

·       Suet pellets

·       Suet blocks

·       Fat balls

·       High energy seed mixes 

Blackcaps

“These attractive Summer visitors are becoming more common in UK gardens during the autumn/winter period as the climate becomes warmer,” says Simon. “However, as they are predominantly an insectivorous soft bill, they can only thrive in gardens during this period where there is a regular supply of accessible food.”

Attract them with:

·       Mealworms

·       Suet pellets 

·       Fat balls

·       Fruit 

“Whatever the species it’s always vital to keep water stations clean and regularly topped up and remember to break ice in the winter,” reminds Simon.

Honeyfield’s offers an exceptional range of wild bird feeds designed to support wildlife throughout the changing seasons. From high-energy sunflower hearts and nutritious seed mixes to suet treats and mealworms, there’s a feed for every species and dietary requirement.  An innovative variety of Wildlife World feeders are also available to help your customers create a thriving, natural environment where birds and other wildlife can flourish.

The ranges are competitively priced for consumers to be able to feed the best, while retailers can benefit from good margin structures and introductory stocking incentives.

To find out more about the Honeyfield’s range visit: https://www.honeyfieldswildbird.co.uk/

Visitors to this year’s Glee (16th-18th September, NEC Birmingham) won’t want to miss a trip to Hall 11, where Johnsons Lawn Seed is set to unveil a stand – and a series of product launches – guaranteed to turn heads.

The UK’s oldest lawn seed brand is promising visitors a stand that’s impossible to overlook. With a flower power-inspired photowall perfect for snapping and sharing, plus a video headerboard wrapping around the display, Johnsons is setting the scene for a show full of newness, both in look and in product line-up.

But the real excitement lies in the innovations. With a proud history of bringing first-to-market solutions, Johnsons will use Glee 2025 to introduce a revolutionary new lawn seed concept for season 2026. Designed to bring even more nature back to our gardens, this breakthrough mix promises naturally self-sufficient, multi-purpose, low-maintenance lawns that stay beautifully green, with a little extra luck for those who stock and sow it.

And that’s just the beginning. In an exciting sideways step, Johnsons is drawing on its unrivalled expertise in wildflowers to create a product unlike anything currently found in garden centre greenhouses or plant areas. This completely new category promises to broaden opportunities for retailers while giving gardeners another reason to choose Johnsons.

Visitors will also find the latest from Neudorff, which is distributed exclusively in the UK by Johnsons Lawn Seed. Expect fresh packaging solutions, plus even more innovation joining the line-up for 2026.

Guy Jenkins, Consumer Manager at Johnsons Lawn Seed, said: “Johnsons Lawn Seed has a proud tradition of innovation, and we’re thrilled to be building on that legacy with some of our most exciting launches yet. Glee is always the highlight of our year, and 2025 will be no exception. From the new-look stand to the products we’re unveiling, there’s a lot to discover.”

Find the Johnsons Lawn Seed team in Hall 11, Stand A61-B60, and be among the first to see what’s new at Glee 2025, or visit www.johnsonslawnseed.com for more information regarding the existing product portfolio.

A collaboration of professional landscapers and designers have scooped Best Showcase Garden and a Platinum award at the BBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair taking place at English Heritage’s Audley End House and Gardens, Saffron Walden this weekend (29-31 August). 

The Pursuit of Excellence Garden is a large-scale, wildlife-friendly Showcase Garden that marks the 30th anniversary of the Association of Professional Landscapers. Designed by Paul Newman from Designscape and Sarah Plested from Bramley Apple Garden Design, both based in Hertfordshire, the garden features layered planting for year-round interest as well as architectural and drought tolerant planting surrounding a seating area. The build team were from TKE Landscaping, Landscapes by Design, Holland Landscapes and Haldon Construction Ltd, all based in Essex, Daryl Gannon Landscapes from Kent and P.R. Kedge Landscapes from Buckinghamshire.

The garden won plentiful praise from the Autumn Fair’s illustrious panel of expert assessors which included gardening editor, horticulturalist and journalist, Ian Hodgson, and multi award-winning garden designers Cherry Carmen and Mike Baldwin. Mike is a veteran horticulture and landscaping lecturer from Derby College (retired) and has created more than 100 national show gardens and community project gardens.

Head assessor Ian Hodgson said: “This was a bravura design that celebrates the APL’s 30th anniversary, showcasing the skills and craftsmanship of professional landscapers.”

Phil Tremayne, General Manager of the Association of Professional Landscapers, said: “The Pursuit of Excellence Garden was conceived and created with a collaboration of top landscapers and designers. It celebrates the APL’s special year, demonstrates the value of great design and perfection in construction, and reminds the visiting public of the importance of engaging professionals.”BBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair visitors will be voting for their own favourite gardens throughout the event. The People’s Choice awards for Best Showcase Garden and Best Beautiful Border will be announced on Sunday afternoon.

Downing College, Cambridge and Val Christman from Widford in Hertfordshire both won Gold awards for their Showcase Gardens. Although not assessed in the formal Showcase Gardens competition, there was praise for multi award-winning garden designer Pip Probert’s (BBC 2 Your Garden Made Perfect) headline feature garden. Pip’s Make a Metre Matter Garden was designed to inspire Autumn Fair visitors to get involved in this year’s BBC Gardeners’ World Make a Metre Matter campaign to transform one metre of outdoor space for the good of the planet. This collective action to support the environment has seen more than 13,500 metres pledged at gardenersworld.com, from veg beds and compost spaces to mini ponds and pollinator patches. Pip Probert’s Autumn Fair feature garden showed that even the smallest garden spaces can be colourful, productive for food growing and attractive to wildlife.

Lucy Tremlett, Event Director at Immediate Live, organisers of BBC Gardeners’ World events, said: “We never fail to be impressed by the design, planning, teamwork and creativity that go into creating a Showcase Garden. Congratulations to the APL team who pulled out all the stops to impress our tough assessors and to give Autumn Fair visitors some memorable ideas to try at home.”

The BBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair offers garden inspiration, achievable ideas to take home, and plants for every type of garden. Whether you’re a gardening beginner, an expert grower, or just enjoy a day out in the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone. 

Highlights include stunning Showcase Gardens, Beautiful Borders and plant displays, stages featuring expert advice and talks, and BBC Gardeners' World presenters Adam Frost, Arit Anderson, Rachel de Thame and Frances Tophill. There are garden tours, gardening personalities in conversation, hands-on workshops, plant and garden shopping, and delicious food and drink. 

Tickets include access to all of Audley End House and Gardens’ attractions. Buy tickets at www.bbcgardenersworldfair.com.

The UK’s most influential plastics recycling and resource efficiency event is back! On 25 September 2025, The RECOUP Conference will return to the KingsGate Conference Centre in Peterborough, with a packed agenda, a line-up of industry heavyweights, and - for the first time - CPD accredited. That means attendees can earn recognised professional development hours while gaining vital insights into building a circular plastics future.

Recognised as the premier platform for driving progress in plastics circularity, the 2025 conference arrives at a critical moment for the industry. Sponsored by Amcor, WRAP, Ecosurety, and others, the event will unite leaders, innovators, and policymakers to share practical solutions, policy updates, and breakthrough ideas to accelerate sustainable transformation.

Three Key Thematic Sessions:

This year’s agenda is built around three sessions that delve into the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the plastics industry:

• Can Plastic Circularity in the UK Ever Really Be Achieved? 
• Achieving Plastic Circularity Systems – A Global Perspective. 
• Plastic Fact vs Plastic Fiction – The Plastic Paradox. 

Each session will challenge assumptions, spark debate, and outline clear pathways for action across the entire plastics value chain.

A Line-up of Influential Industry Voices:

The conference will feature a powerful roster of keynote speakers including:

• Carlos Ludlow-Palafox, Greenback Recycling Technologies
• Clover Walton, Faerch UK Ltd
• Dr David Greenfield, CIWM
• Denise Mathieson, Waitrose
• Joachim Quoden, EXPRA
• Paula Chin, WWF
• Professor Steve Fletcher, University of Portsmouth
• Rosie Bartram, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners
• Tim Rotheray, Viridor
• Tom Gaynor, REPAK
• Dana Clouston, Barclays
• Klaus Wohnig, DROP-IN
• Lucie Charbonnel, Amcor
• James Marsh, Nestlé Uk Ltd
• Adam Read, SUEZ
• James Bull, Tesco
• James McLeary, Biffa Polymers
• Mary-Jane Hogg, DOW
• Pauline Metivier, ReLondon
• Chris Dow, Coperion Recycling 
• Megg Humphrey, WRAP

These influential voices will deliver insights from across the UK and around the globe, covering technology, policy, infrastructure, and collaborative approaches to achieving a truly circular plastics economy.

Why Attend?

• Earn CPD accreditation while gaining cutting-edge insights.
• Network with hundreds of professionals from across packaging, recycling, retail, academia, and policy.
• Discover pioneering initiatives and real-world case studies driving impact.
• Engage in debates and collaborative sessions shaping the sector’s future.

“The RECOUP Conference is where real dialogue happens between those shaping the future of plastics,” said Stuart Foster, CEO of RECOUP. “This year, we continue to lead the conversation on circularity, sustainability, and resource efficiency, driving progress and inspiring action across the industry."

Secure your place at The RECOUP Conference 2025 and help shape the future of a truly circular plastics value chain.

Register now: https://www.recoup.org/news-events/the-recoup-conference-2025/

Autumn Fair has revealed the first stage of its Retail Makeover Mission, an ambitious initiative designed to future-proof independent retailers and champion the innovation at the heart of the British high street.

Following hundreds of applications, two outstanding winners – OSO Fashion Boutique in Salisbury and Taba Naba in Felixstowe – were selected to receive a complete retail transformation delivered by Autumn Fair’s panel of expert mentors. Each transformation will be documented in a three-part video series, with Episode One now live at autumnfair.com/retail-makeover/hub. Episode Two will premiere tomorrow (28th August).

The first episode follows the early transformation of OSO Fashion Boutique with its owner Katie Gibbs, where mentors Deryane Tadd (Founder & Director, The Dressing Room) and John Abbate (Retail Design & Visual Merchandising Expert) guide the store through game-changing fundamentals – from storytelling and customer experience to visual merchandising and sales tactics – unlocking new growth opportunities. Future episodes will follow Katie into the world of smart buying, powerful PR moves, going online, and building lasting customer loyalty.

Launched to champion independent resilience, creativity, and community spirit, the Retail Makeover Mission also provides free downloadable toolkits alongside each episode, enabling retailers nationwide to apply the same expert insights to their own businesses.

Episode One toolkits include:

• The Retail Makeover Mission Brand Strategy Workbook - A practical workbook to help you define, strengthen, and communicate your brand strategy. Step-by-step exercises make it easy to clarify your positioning and connect with your target customers.
• Simple Changes that Drive Immediate Results: by Deryane Tadd - Quick wins you can apply straight away to transform your store: from creating visual breathing room and telling your brand story through displays.
• Visual Merchandising and Brand Identity Toolkit: by John Abbate - Learn how to create eye-catching displays and a strong brand presence in your store. This toolkit guides you through turning your retail space into an engaging customer experience that reflects your brand identity.
• Top Tips for Making Data-Driven Decisions in Independent Retail: by David Whiteley, COO, HelloThriver.com - Discover how to use data effectively to understand your customers, optimise your stock, and make smarter decisions that drive growth.
• Top Tips for Running a Successful High Street Business: by Alex Schlagman, Founder, SaveTheHighStreet.org - Packed with actionable advice for independent retailers, this guide shares tried-and-tested tips to help your high street business thrive in a competitive market.

All toolkits are available free at: autumnfair.com/retail-makeover/hub.

Free Mentoring Sessions for Pre-Registered Buyers

Buyers who register to attend Autumn Fair will have the opportunity to book in a free 1-2-1 mentoring session with the expert mentors from the Retail Makeover Mission. Your free ticket gives you full show access plus an exclusive link to book a free 20-minute 1-2-1 session with the panel of retail experts offering an invaluable opportunity to get personalised insights and practical advice designed to help businesses thrive.

These sessions are limited to one per person and must be booked in advance here: autumnfair.com/retail-makeover/mentor-booking.

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This autumn, September 6, 2025, the Eden Project’s National Wildflower Centre (NWC) turns 25. To celebrate, it has launched a UK-wide wildflower photography competition in partnership with the Canary Wharf Group with cash prizes of up to £1,500.

The Wildflower Photographer of the Year competition is calling all budding and professional photographers to submit their best photographs of wildflowers by September 30, 2025, to be in with a chance to win a prize.

The competition celebrates wildflowers native to Britain and Ireland, of which there are 1,600 species, and shines a light on the importance of connecting people with the natural world.

UK wildflower habitats have decreased by 97 per cent since WWII. The NWC opened its doors in response to these stark figures as a National Lottery Millennium Commission project in Liverpool in 2000 before making its home at the Eden Project in 2017.

Born from the vision of Landlife, a Liverpool-based charity with a bold mission to bring the countryside to people through the transformation of brownfield sites and neglected urban spaces into wildflower habitats, the NWC delivers large-scale biodiversity projects across the UK in partnership with communities, businesses, councils and other NGOs.

From vast cornfield meadows in Kirkby, Liverpool, where concrete once dominated, to 18 hectares of wildflower, woodland and heathland habitat along the new St Austell Link Road in Cornwall, wildflowers transform underused spaces into a living landscape for pollinators while providing delight, colour and access to nature for communities.

Dan James, director of development at the Eden Project, said: “The work of the NWC has never been more important than it is now.  The Wildflower Photographer of the Year encourages everyone to look more closely at the beauty and fragility of wild plants. It is a visual tribute to our 25-year mission of reconnecting people with nature.”

The competition has been launched in partnership with Canary Wharf Group, home to Eden Dock – a leading example of how urban spaces can support biodiversity, created in partnership with the Eden Project – and is open to all UK residents. There are three categories, which comprise a youth, amateur and professional category with a cash prize of £500, £1,000 and £1,500 awarded respectively to the winner of each category.

Sophie Goddard, director of ESG at Canary Wharf Group, adds: “At Canary Wharf we have created spaces to connect people with nature throughout our neighbourhood. We see the work of the NWC as vital and are proud to support The Wildflower Photographer of the Year competition, providing a great opportunity to engage people with our natural world.”

The Wildflower Photographer of the Year competition coincides with the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, a showcase of 100 of the world’s best images of the natural world, on loan from the Natural History Museum and on display throughout the Eden Project until September 28.

To find out more, visit: www.edenproject.com/wildflower-photo.

The Horticultural Trades Association has announced the full line-up for the ‘Engaging Your Customer: From Insight to Action’ session at this year’s Horticulture, The Conference, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the Barbican Centre, London.

The session will bring together four expert speakers, each delivering a focused presentation on a key aspect of customer engagement – from data-driven insights to brand storytelling, real-world retail practice and industry-wide collaboration.

David Denny (HTA) will open the session with the latest findings from the HTA’s consumer insight programme, highlighting how evolving customer behaviours, AI tools, and market research can help businesses turn data into actionable strategies.

Liz Dowling (Marketing Consultant & Career Coach) will delve into the art of brand storytelling – showing how clear values, intentional marketing and powerful narratives can strengthen customer connections and foster long-term loyalty.

Amy Stubbs (Managing Director, British Garden Centres) will share the story of British Garden Centres’ growth from local to national, focusing on how the group maintains an authentic, community-level feel while operating at scale.

Neil Grant (Managing Director, Ferndale Garden Centre & HTA Retail Committee Chair) will discuss how HTA members are driving retail innovation and the importance of collaboration within the industry in engaging consumers and creating new growth opportunities.

This session is designed to be both practical and engaging. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to better understand today’s customers, create engaging retail experiences, and translate consumer insights into measurable sales and profitability. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn from industry leaders and network with peers.

Liz Dowling, Marketing Consultant and Career Coach, said:

“I’m really pleased to be speaking at this event and to support the great work the HTA is doing. I’ve been so impressed by the way the organisation has evolved into a genuinely people-focused association - one that not only champions the issues that matter in our industry but also brings us together. That sense of connection and shared energy is so valuable.”

Horticulture, The Conference will also feature a wide-ranging programme of speakers, including economist Dr Tim Leunig, global foresight expert Josh McBain, a high-profile Business Leaders panel chaired by BBC Breakfast presenter Jon Kay, a Member Investment and Success panel with industry leaders, and broadcaster Jeremy Vine as After-Dinner Speaker.

Horticulture, The Conference is in partnership with: Glee, Citation, Towergate (HTA Insurance), Howden (HTA Healthcare), Lloyds, Evergreen Garden Care, Dura-ID Solutions, Troo and The Horti House.          

For more information and to secure tickets, visit hta.org.uk/conference.

Specialist business property adviser Christie & Co has announced the sale of Whitehall Garden Centre Woodborough, near Pewsey, to local entrepreneurs and new industry entrants Ranu Limited.

The business has been run by the Self family for many years, who also own the larger Lacock Garden Centre, near Chippenham, which the family will continue to run following the sale of their Whitchurch centre to Otter Garden Cenres last month.

Claire Self, Director of Whitehall Garden Centres, commented, “When we made the decision to sell our Woodborough centre, it was important to us as a family to find the right buyer who will continue the store as a garden centre and keep our existing staff in their roles.

“We would like to thank all our dedicated and hard-working staff who have been part of the Whitehall team for many years, and we wish them all the best with the new direction of the store and the future.

“We would also like to thank all our loyal customers who have visited the centre over the years and supported us as a business and family.”

The garden centre at Woodborough occupies a large site and has a popular farm shop, restaurant and extensive garden centre offering.

The new owners have a background in childcare businesses, but this acquisition marks their first venture into the garden centre industry. The father-and-daughter team plan to run the business with a long-term goal to continue improving and developing the business.

Raj Kumar commented, “After almost 20 years of operating exclusively within the education sector, the time had come to diversify. This acquisition of Woodborough Garden Centre marks our first move into retail and garden centres with a commitment to upholding the prestigious reputation Whitehall has built over the years.

“Throughout this process, the support from Whitehall has been invaluable. With their continued efforts working closely alongside us, from the preliminary discussions to post-completion, it meant we always had what we needed to feel well-prepared and assured at every stage. And a huge thank you to Tom from Christie & Co for supporting and facilitating this journey.

“Woodborough Garden Centre will continue as a family-run business with strong community roots as established by Whitehall. The team on the ground has also cultivated a fantastic culture which we intend to build upon as we move forward.  We look forward to welcoming both our existing and new customers in this exciting new chapter.”

Tom Glanvill, Director – Garden Centres at Christie & Co, added, “Woodborough is a lovely garden centre that offers locals an independent and family-run farm shop, restaurant and excellent horticulture-focused garden centre. I am very pleased that we have sold this to local buyers who have the desire and drive to take the business forward. I see huge potential here, and this transaction highlights the continued demand we are seeing for garden centres, with this being the third garden centre sale that we have completed in August.”

From a single site in Woodthorpe, Lincolnshire, in 1990, British Garden Centres' phenomenal growth has continued with the announcement of major acquisitions this year, making them the largest family-run garden centre group by stores in the country. 

2025 marks a special milestone for the company as it celebrates its 35th anniversary on the 25th August. From opening that first site in Woodthorpe back in 1990 to becoming a nationally recognised brand while keeping its headquarters firmly in Lincolnshire, the anniversary is a moment of reflection and pride for the Stubbs family and the thousands of colleagues who have contributed to its journey.

Securing the former Dobbies sites at Shinfield, Gloucester, Gosforth, Heighley Gate, Rugby, Havant, and Northampton, then Hayes Garden World in the Lakes marks the latest expansion for the now UK-wide business, and this Lincolnshire-grown success story shows no sign of slowing down.  These additions brought the company's portfolio to an impressive 73 garden retail sites across the UK, a testament to its incredible journey from its Lincolnshire roots, 35 years ago.

The phenomenal growth of British Garden Centres since its humble beginnings in 1990 is a testament to the power of family, a hard-working team, and a deep-rooted passion for gardening.

Charles Stubbs and his brother displayed an entrepreneurial spirit as teenagers by selling plant cuttings outside Woodthorpe Hall. Over the years, the brothers’ reputation grew far and wide. They were featured on the local news program Calendar for their entrepreneurial skills.

This early venture laid the foundation for what would become a thriving national business that has now become the UK’s largest garden centre group by number of stores. Charles, together with Robert and Phillippa, developed a business that expanded from a single garden centre near their home to the flagship Brigg Garden Centre. This growth transformed their venture into Britain’s largest garden centre group, which increased from 10 locations in 2018 to 73 in 2025, with five of those being in Lincolnshire (Woodthorpe, Brigg, Louth, Chapel, Horncastle).

As Woodthorpe Garden Centre turns 35 and Brigg Garden Centre reaches its 25th birthday this year, celebrations honour their place at the heart of the local community and their role as one of Lincolnshire’s most visited and best-loved destinations. Long-time customers, dedicated staff, and local organisations will come together to mark the occasion. The next chapter As the number of centres has grown, so too has our team. One of the things we’re most proud of is that we remain an independent, family-run business. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the next generation of the Stubbs step up to roles within the business and bring fresh and engaging ideas to grow the group further.

The Garden Centre Association July 2025 Barometer of Trade (BoT) shows ‘a good mid-summer performance’.

Member garden centres reported that eight of the 13 categories recorded did well, when compared to 2024, with furniture and BBQs, up at +16.72%, crowned July’s best performing section.

GCA CEO, Peter Burks, says: “Great to have had a nice bounce back to our sales in July following the heat in June. However, gardening did suffer still from the heat and drought conditions, but the fair-weather category of furniture and BBQs had a great month as everyone wanted to get outdoors.

“The other non-weather dependent categories also did what they are there to do and supported the overall performance with nice uplifts in gifts, clothing, food halls/farm shops and catering. Overall, a good mid-summer performance despite the heat and hose pipe bans in some areas.”

Clothing recorded the second-best sales figures in July, when compared to the same month in 2024, up at +11.76%, followed by gifts at +9.8%, catering at +8.32% came next and then food hall/farm shop at +6.38%.

The miscellaneous category recorded +1.89%, with seeds & bulbs was in seventh place at +1.16% and pets & aquatics next at +0.77%.

The garden sundries category was slightly down at -0.35%, then houseplants at -0.92%, outdoor plants down at -4.9% and hard landscaping at -6.99%.

The GCA’s BoT reports covering 13 categories are compiled using actual sales figures and provide an up-to-date trading position statement. They are made available mid-month following the end of the prior month after all member garden centres have submitted their results.

The BoT allows members to compare their trading positions with other centres.

The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide.

Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

Tickets for the GCA’s 2026 Annual Conference are now on sale via the members’ section on the body’s website or via https://gca.digitickets.co.uk/.

For further information, please go to www.gca.org.uk.

Squire’s Garden Centres has once again demonstrated its commitment to local communities, raising an impressive £24,861.84 through its annual ‘Charity of the Year’ programme. The initiative, now in its 14th year, saw all 17 Squire’s centres – along with its Group Office in Farnham – partner with a local charity from 1 August 2024 to 31 July 2025.

Under the programme, each garden centre chooses a charity that meets specific criteria: it must be a registered charity, benefit local people with funds used locally rather than going into a national pot, and support either local people or the environment.

Sam Dickson, Managing Director of Squire’s Garden Centres, comments: "This fantastic achievement reflects the passion and dedication of our colleagues across the business and the incredible generosity of our customers. By working closely with charities rooted in the heart of our communities, we’re able to make a very real and positive impact. I’m hugely proud of what has been achieved this year – every pound raised will help make a difference where it’s needed most."

Fundraising efforts were centre-led and varied, ranging from collection boxes and raffles to ticketed events such as Squire’s Christmas grottos, as well as other activities.  Centres, including Crawley, Reigate and Shepperton, hosted special anniversary customer events this year, marking significant milestones of the centre and enabling them to boost donations through charity raffles. 

Beyond the crucial fundraising, the programme helps raise awareness of the charities’ work and often creates opportunities for hands-on involvement, providing valuable and rewarding experiences for both charity and Squire’s centre teams.

In addition to the ‘Charity of the Year’ partnerships, Squire’s also supports two national horticultural charities; Greenfingers Charity, which creates gardens for children’s hospices and for whom Squire’s raised £6,300 this year through the sale of carrier bags - and Perennial, the UK charity supporting people in horticulture - as well as a range of other local causes and events throughout the year.

Looking ahead to the new Charity Year 2025-26 (commenced 1 August), 11 Squire’s centres will be welcoming new charity partners, these include:

• Badshot Lea – Helen Arkell Dyslexia Charity
• Chertsey - Ashford & St Peter’s Hospitals’ Charities
• Cobham – The Meeting Room
• Frensham - Woodlarks Accessible Campsite
• Milford – The Samson Centre
• Reigate - Home Start East Surrey
• Shepperton - Families Thrive Together
• Stanmore – Norwood
• Washington - St Barnabus Hospice
• West Horsley - Queen Elizabeth Foundation
• Wokingham - The Cowshed

Six centres will continue to support their existing charity partners for a further year; Age Concern Brighton & West Sussex (Squire’s Crawley), Age Concern Twyford & District (Squire’s Hare Hatch), Home Start Elmbridge (Squire’s Hersham), Walton Charity (Squire’s Long Ditton), Homelink (Squire’s Twickenham) and Woking & Sam Beare Hospice (Squire’s Woking).

Supremo Leisure has announced a significant milestone in its journey. Following remarkable success and sustained growth over the past five years, the company is entering an exciting new phase of development – underpinned by a planned leadership succession that ensures stability, innovation, and the continued preservation of its core family values.

Effective immediately, Adam Gregory, currently Commercial Director, and Zac Windsor will begin the process of acquiring the business from founder Julian Windsor. This transition marks the beginning of a new era for Supremo, as it embraces next-generation leadership dedicated to long-term growth and strategic evolution.

Adam Gregory will assume the role of Managing Director. With a strong track record and a deep understanding of the business, Adam brings a forward-thinking and dynamic leadership style that will guide Supremo into its next chapter. Zac Windsor will take on the role of Commercial Director, reinforcing Supremo’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and the continuity of its founding principles.

Julian Windsor, who established Supremo Leisure and led its growth to market leadership, will transition into the role of Chairman. In this capacity, he will continue to provide strategic guidance and mentorship, ensuring a smooth and thoughtful handover.

“The future of Supremo is bright,” said Julian Windsor. “With Adam stepping into the role of Managing Director and Zac joining the leadership team, I am confident that the business is in strong, capable hands. I look forward to supporting the company from a strategic standpoint as Chairman, and watching the next generation build on the foundation we’ve created.”

“Zac and I are excited for what lies ahead,” added Adam Gregory. “Our vision is to expand Supremo’s presence, foster ongoing innovation, and deliver the outstanding service our customers and partners expect. We are committed to leading with passion, creativity, and purpose.”

As part of this strategic evolution, Supremo has also introduced an EMI share option scheme for key team members. This initiative not only recognises the dedication of its workforce but also reflects the company’s commitment to attracting and retaining top talent through a culture of shared ownership and loyalty.

“In today’s fast-moving business environment, standing still is not an option,” said Julian Windsor. “This is the right moment for the next generation to take the lead, bringing fresh perspectives while staying true to the values that have defined Supremo from the start.”

Supremo Leisure remains firmly committed to its core brand values:

• Creativity & Uniqueness – A design-led approach that champions originality and sets industry trends.
• Trade Partnerships – Tailored support for stockists, including flexible pricing, bespoke ordering, and end-to-end service.
• Quality & Longevity – High-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and comprehensive aftercare to ensure lasting value.

Supremo Leisure is entering this new chapter with confidence, clarity, and a clear vision for the future — one that blends innovation with tradition, and growth with integrity.

One of the most eagerly sought after catering awards that GTN ran in the past was for The Greatest Afternoon Tea Team.  The judges really had a tough job going out and tasing them all!

This year, if you believe your team currently serve The Greatest Garden Centre Afternoon Tea, you have the opportunity of bringing your Afternoon Tea to Glee to be displayed on the “Feed Your Business Stage” and judged by a panel of experts who will decide an overall Afternoon Tea Team winner plus regional awards too.  The judges will also be looking for The Greatest Garden Centre Scone, and The Greatest Garden Centre Traybake within the Afternoon Teas displayed.  Both sweet and savoury Afternoon Teas can be entered.

The competition takes place at 3:00pm on Wednesday 17^th September with the entered Afternoon Teas taking pride of place on the “Feed your Business Stage”.  There will be a food prep area available for your team to compile your Afternoon Tea ready for display and judging.

To reserve your teams place in the display and be in with a chance of winning The Greatest Garden Centre Afternoon Tea Award please send an e-mail to Trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk stating why you think your team should be part of the competition.  Closing date for entries is Friday 5th September.

Every good garden centre Food & Drink operation is only as good as the back of house support they get from their Wash-up teams, their Marketing Teams and increasingly their EPOS teams.

This award is for The Greatest teams that keep it all going without ever being seen by the customers.  For that reason, to enter your Catering Support Teams all you need to do is send an e-mail by 5th September 2025 to trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk with:

• photos of the team
• their names and roles
• plus a 200 word citation as to why they should be crowned The Greatest Garden Centre Catering Support Team at Glee on Wednesday 17^th September at 5:00pm.

We can’t wait to receive your nominations. The closing date for entries is Friday 5th September.

As customer service and customer satisfaction are the keys to the ongoing success of garden centre catering, the winners of The Greatest Food & Drink Team awards will be decided by the number and quality of customer votes your teams receive before the closing date of September 7^th 2025.

Your customers can vote online by scanning the QR code or you can get them to vote in store and then send completed voting forms to the GTN office for counting.

To get your customers voting, all you have to do is download the voting posters and voting forms artwork from the links below  display them in your restaurant or coffee shop and add voting links into your websites and social media pages.

GTN's Greatest Food & Drink Team Awards Voting Poster

GTN's Greatest Food & Drink Team Awards Voting Forms

GTN's Greatest Food & Drink Team Awards Voting QR Code

Or, access the poster, voting forms and QR code via this dropbox link

As well as overall Greatest Food & Drink Team Awards for different sizes of garden centre catering operations there will be regional awards too.  What better way to promote your Food & Drink offerings during the Autumn than with a GTN Greatest Awards win, especially as it will be thanks to your customers.

Customer voting is live now and runs until midnight on Sunday 7^th September, when the votes will be counted in readiness for the presentations at Glee.

Please contact trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk if you have any questions about the voting process.

On paper votes collected in-store should be sent in batches to:

The Greatest Food & Drink Awards

Garden Trade News

Potting Shed Press Ltd

Dairy House, 8 Dairy Drove

Thorney

Peterborough

PE6 0TX

Votes must be received by Wednesday 10th Spetember to be counted and included in the final results.