The Garden Centre Association’s November Barometer of Trade results show "a much better finish to the year", according to GCA CEO Peter Burks.
It was found from the figures submitted by GCA member garden centres for the month, when compared to November 2023, that 11 of the 13 categories recorded were up.
Peter says: “It was great to see our members enjoying a much better finish to the year than they did the start. November has been a very strong month right across all product groups; possibly helped by the last day of the month falling on the Saturday of the first peak Christmas weekend.
“Furniture and BBQs are the only significant faller despite it being the category that showed the biggest increase in Black Friday sales, according to market research company Gfk’s data.
“This may also explain the huge increase in outdoor plant sales up more than 17%. Christmas was certainly to the fore, up more than 15%, and it’s great to both hear and read so many positive comments in the media regarding the wonderful ambience in our members’ garden centres at this time of year. From speaking to members, I understand the strong sales are continuing well into December too.”
The best recorded category for November 2024, when compared to the same month in 2023, was hard landscaping up at +35.54%, with outdoor plants next at +17.42% and Christmas in third place at +15.16%.
Seeds and bulbs came in next at +12.26%, then catering +11.55%, houseplants at +9.92%, food hall/farmshop at +8.84% and the garden sundries category recorded +8.37%.
Clothing came in next and recorded +6.97% and then pets & aquatics at 6.58%. The gifts category was up at 6.2%, while the miscellaneous category came in at -1.45% and furniture & BBQs at -8.03%.
The GCA BoT reports 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.
