Barton Grange Garden Centre (above) and Castle Gardens (below) have been announced as the national winners of the 2021 GCA Christmas competition.

The garden centres were judged to have the best festive displays in the country by the organisation and will receive their awards at its annual conference in January 2022.

Iain Wylie, GCA Chief Executive, says: “We’d like to say a huge congratulations to Barton Grange Garden Centre in Preston, Lancashire who won in the Destination Garden Centre (DGC) category and Castle Gardens in Sherborne, Dorset who won in the Garden Centre (GC) category. I’d like to say an additional thank you to everyone who created some truly joyous and memorable displays.

“Last year we were unable to hold such a competition with travel restrictions and various lockdowns in place, so this year was a particularly exciting occasion to return to our annual and much-loved competition of Christmas displays.

“This year experts’ anticipated early sales and a festive boom, so our member garden centres have gone all-out to impress their customers, and the judges, with imaginative and seasonal displays, making it a real challenge to choose the overall winners this year.

“The entrants were judged on general ambience, creativity, stock range, flow and tidiness, and customer service was also taken into consideration.”

Entrants in both the GC and DGC categories were judged by Phil McCann. Runners up in the DGC category were, in second place, Bents Garden Centre and in third Garsons Esher. In the GC category in second place was Old Railway Line Garden Centre and in third place, Brimsmore Gardens, part of The Gardens Group.

David Fawcett-Ropner, Display Manager at Barton Grange, said: “It’s fantastic to hear that we’ve done it again and won Best Christmas Display in the UK in the Destination Garden Centre category. Being nationally recognised for all the hard work everyone throughout the garden centre has put in to making our displays so magical, especially during what has been another challenging year, makes it even more worthwhile.

“We start planning for Christmas a whole year in advance, and we’re so delighted to see all the effort and commitment being rewarded by the GCA, but also appreciated by our customers.”

The full results for the area winners are as follows for the GC and DGC categories.

Midlands: Gates (DGC) and Planters Bretby (GC).

South Thames: Garsons Garden Centre – Esher (DGC) and Castle Gardens (GC).

North Thames: Sunshine Garden Centre (DGC) and Squire’s Stanmore (GC).

North West: Barton Grange (DGC).

North East: Tong Garden Centre (DGC).

Wales and West: Whitehall Lacock (DGC) and the Old Railway Line (GC).

Louise Burks, Director of The Gardens Group, which owns Castle Gardens in Sherborne, Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil and Poundbury Gardens in Dorchester, said: “To have the team’s creativity, resourcefulness and hard work recognised with these national accolades is just fantastic! With Covid considerations still very much at the heart of decision making, the team has gone above and beyond to make the displays as magical and exciting as ever, while ensuring they are safe and welcoming for everyone.

“Having Castle Gardens take first place for the 10th time is a very special achievement for The Gardens Group as a whole and one we are extremely proud of. This consistency reflects the commitment and ingenuity of our whole team, who make the transformation happen from scratch each and every year.”

The top 10 centres overall will also receive a ‘Christmas Centre of Excellence’ certificate shortly. They are:

Barton Grange Garden Centre

Bents Garden Centre

Castle Gardens

Garsons Garden Centre – Esher

Fron Goch

Gates

Ruxley Manor

Old Railway Line

Garsons Garden Centre – Titchfield

Sunshine Garden Centre

The national winners will be given their awards during the GCA’s annual conference on Monday, January 24 at the Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel and Spa in Blackburn, Lancashire. The conference runs from January 23 until 26, 2022. Places can be booked via www.gca.org.uk.

Since the start of the month, Boyd Douglas-Davies has been wearing a different Christmas jumper (they are not all his) in his Jumperful Challenge to raise funds for the Greenfingers Charity to go towards more magical gardens at Childrens Hospices next year.

Sponsors have donated amounts of money for each day up until Christmas with other donations adding to the Christmas Jumper fundraising. You can see all the days so far on The Most Jumperful website: https://themostjumperful.co.uk/ created by Natalie Porter of Happy Plants who started the fundraising challenge last year.  Well done Nat!

As it's Christmas Jumper day on Friday 10th December, how about we all join in wearing Christmas Jumpers for the day and adding a donation to Greenfingers via the Jumperful JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/boyddouglasdaviesjumperthon

And if you send your "Most Jumperful Time of the Year" photos to us here at GTN Xtra we'll assemble a special gallery for next weekends edition.  E-mail them to trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk

Jason at BGC Horncastle has already joined in...

With 2021 coming to a close, lightweight roofing specialist Onduline is urging nurseries and garden centre retailers to ‘make your New Year’s resolution a roofing revolution.’

While customers will be searching for last minute Christmas gifts, retailers’ thoughts will already be on what’s new to stock in 2022.

And according to Onduline its award-winning compact roofing system EASYLINE, which is perfect for sheds, studios, pet shelters and other garden buildings and annexes, could be the answer.

Available in its own standalone pallet that is simple to stock in store, EASYLINE was judged the winner of the Garden Landscaping category in November’s 40^th anniversary GIMA awards.

Described by the panel of leading industry experts as ‘a versatile product, ideal for small projects’, the eco-friendly corrugated roofing sheets (100cm by 76cm), are easy to handle and transport, and will fit into the boot of an average family-sized car.

Each sheet is made of 50% to 60% recycled fibres and contains no hazardous substances, making it completely safe for people and family pets.

EASYLINE is available in several bright colours and compares favourably to traditional shed felt thanks to its 10-year waterproofing guarantee and ease of installation.

Along with the roofing sheets, the attractive PoS display showcases all the accessories and fittings that are needed, with a QR code that guides DIY customers to easy-to-understand installation instructions.

Onduline Managing Director Paul Duffy said: “Since we introduced EASYLINE into this sector, more and more retailers are seeing it as a prime new opportunity to attract value-conscious customers who are keen to upgrade their existing garden buildings, and to do it sustainably.

“That’s why, when you’re planning for 2022, we’re saying to nurseries and garden centres ‘make your New Year’s resolution a roofing revolution.’”

For more information on Onduline’s lightweight, eco-friendly and durable roofing solutions please visit www.onduline.co.uk.

Dobbies Garden Centres Group Limited has filed (3 December) the Annual Report and Financial Statements for Dobbies and its subsidiaries. These accounts are for the 52 weeks ending 28 February 2021.

Full accounts for the Group can be seen at: https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/10231465/filing-history

The accounts show an operating profit of £12.9m on reduced turnover of £224m, however after finance costs the group reported a loss of £31m.

Here is their announcement issued to the press on Saturday:

Dobbies demonstrated particular resilience and progress, despite the significant challenges caused by the Covid pandemic.

• Dobbies’ EBITDA was £37m, an increase of 60%
• We had strong trading at garden centres acquired in 2019, partially offset by Covid-19 closed periods
• Several garden centres and restaurants were refurbished - Gloucester, Huntingdon and Woodcote Green garden centres
• A wholesale food partnership with Sainsbury’s was launched - now operating in 52 Dobbies’ garden centres
• little dobbies was opened - a new small store format, opening up gardening to urban audiences
• Continued supply chain transformation - including the appointment of a new partner to provide consolidated warehousing, distribution, and home delivery services
• Acquisition strategy continued with the purchase of Johnsons of Boston garden centre in April 2021

Chairman, Andrew Bracey, said: “Dobbies demonstrated substantial resilience while navigating the challenges of Covid-19. As we move forward, our focus remains on delivering our growth strategy.

“Dobbies is the UK’s leading garden centre operator, with a broad range authority and a best-in-class restaurant experience. We have built a robust and efficient platform to support Dobbies’ future growth.”

Chief Executive Officer, Graeme Jenkins, said: “Despite a challenging year there were many positive developments including investment in new locations, refurbishment of existing stores and the launch of little dobbies in urban locations, targeting new customer segments. 

“Sustainability remains core to our business delivery. We are also establishing Dobbies as a digitally led garden centre retailer to drive our customer-first approach. I would like to thank all team members for their support and commitment over the last year.”

Following the government's announcement over the weekend that Face Masks will be mandatory from today, Global Journey have seen a massive surge in demand.

The demand for and the wearing of masks waned over the summer. Now with winter upon us, together with a new variant there has never been a more important time to stay safe and protected with the use of face masks and hand sanitisers.

Global Journey face masks and displays are in stock now and can be despatched on a next day delivery.

To order simply email Ian at  isamuels@global-journey.com or call 0161 872 0333

www.global-journey.com

Following the recently sold-out 40th GIMA Awards, where guests helped to raise over £3,900 for GIMA’s 2021 nominated charity – Greenfingers – with not one but two generous raffles, it has been confirmed that GIMA events have raised over £19,000 for the children’s hospice garden charity throughout the year.

In addition to the GIMA Awards, where members dug deep for the charity raising an additional £3,000 on top of the raffle total, the organisation has also held several events throughout 2021 where further much-needed funds have been raised.

Over £2,000 was added to the fundraising total in July as donated products from the GIMA Awards judging day went under the hammer. With over 250 entries received for this year’s awards, many suppliers kindly donated their products to Greenfingers following the judging process. These donations made up of pots and planters, gardening sundries and clothing, made the journey from Warwick where the GIMA judging took place to Greenfinger’s auction partners, W&H Peacock, in Bedford. It was here that all the donations raised just over £2,200 for the charity.

Earlier in the year in June, the 11th annual GIMA Golf Day - held at the new location of Belton Woods Hotel & Golf Club in Grantham, Lincolnshire - saw 24 teams tackle the Par 73 course, followed by an evening of networking. A raffle also took place, with the day raising an incredible £10,000 for Greenfingers.

On top of this, GIMA members also took part in a range of activities for Garden Re-Leaf Day 2021 in March, as well as donning their floral best for Floral Thursday which took place at Glee in September.

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Greenfingers said: “We really can’t thank GIMA enough for not only a great event but also for such fabulous support, particularly in a year that’s challenged us in so many ways. With more of the inside work of hospices taking place outside, well-designed outside spaces are so important and really do make a tremendous difference to the entire hospice community. It is only thanks to the generosity of our friends in the industry that we can continue creating magical and inspiring gardens. Thank you GIMA, your members and of course Simon for choosing to support Greenfingers this year."

GIMA Director, Vicky Nuttall, added: “We are so pleased that our members have managed to raise so much money for Greenfingers throughout 2021. The work that the charity undertakes to build therapeutic garden spaces at children’s hospices across the country is so vital and has such an impact upon the children, family and staff that spend time in these hospice spaces. Being able to support this is an honour and one that I know our members will continue to support in the future. Our thanks to all those that have contributed to this incredible fundraising total.”

For further information please contact the GIMA team on (01959) 564947 or info@gima.org.uk

Pugh's Garden Village has an exciting opportunity to work for their award-winning, family-run business that is expanding in the wonderful industry of plants and horticulture.

NOW HIRING: Plant Department Manager | Full Time | Salary: £27,000-£30,000 (depending on experience) | Pugh's Garden Village Wenvoe

This is an exciting opportunity to work for our award-winning, family-run business that is expanding in the wonderful industry of plants and horticulture.

If you have proven retail experience, excellent communication skills with colleagues and customers and the ability to deliver excellent retail standards then we'd love to hear from you. Please send your CV and covering letter to kpugh@pughsgardencentre.co.uk.

For full job description click here

Pugh's Staff Wellbeing Benefits:

As a permanent employee of Pugh's, after passing your probation period you will be entitled to the following:

• 20%-50% Staff Discounts
  Monthly Prize Draws worth £100
  Individual Staff Life Insurance
  Health Assured - Staff Health & Well-Being Support Scheme
  Yearly Personal Development Reviews
  £30 Uniform Allowance
  Yearly Holiday Giveaway
  and more

https://www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk/vacancies/36/plant-area-manager?fbclid=IwAR2oukYUX4FWb7Gkr0Wx8NxxNdiZ_HpZXRr3j4JpTsGbsvIxzbzO_50tSaw

Booking has now opened for the Garden Centre Association’s annual conference, which takes place at the Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel and Spa in Lancashire from January 23 until 26.

GCA Chief Executive, Iain Wylie, said: “As this is the grand return of our annual conference, our last was held in 2020 as last year’s had to be cancelled due to Covid, we wanted to let people know booking for the event is now open, so if you are hoping to attend, please visit the members’ section of our website via www.gca.org.uk to reserve your place.

“It will be held at the 700-year-old Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel and Spa, a recently renovated venue in the picturesque Lancashire countryside, combining modern facilities with historic characteristics, all set in 17 acres. Members can expect a line-up of top-quality speakers and plenty of opportunities to catch up with friends, colleagues and associates from the industry in person at last. This will be our 56th annual conference and looks set to be a fantastic event.

“To book, please visit the members’ section of our website via www.gca.org.uk. Sponsorship slots have filled up well too, but there are still some limited places left. So, if any companies are interested in this, I recommend getting in touch quickly by giving me a call.”

The conference kicks off on Sunday, January 23 with a chance to tour and visit the new RHS Bridgewater Garden, as well as both Bents and Barton Grange garden centres, before an evening of fundraising activities and friendly competition for the charity Greenfingers, where teams will battle it out for the Greenfingers Challenge Cup.

Spaces are strictly limited for the tour and visit and fill up quickly, when this is fully booked, attendees can still book for the Greenfingers Charity event at the Flower Bowl entertainment venue. Transport is available from the hotel directly to the Flower Bowl and back.

Iain adds: “Monday’s (January 24) part of the conference will focus on the operational side of our industry and will include presentations from our inspectors around best practice in our industry, plus talks from a range of inspiring and engaging business speakers to help motivate us for the year ahead. In the evening it will be our eagerly anticipated fancy-dress Associates Dinner, which is themed as ‘The Great GCA Garden Party’.

“During the day on Tuesday (January 25) there will be more of a focus on the strategic element of the business, with opportunities to listen to some inspirational speakers and a chance to help attendees define their strategy for 2022 and beyond. Topics covered include the economy, leadership and business development with a particular emphasis on the environment and sustainability.

“There will also be our Associate’s Exhibition providing the chance to meet suppliers in an informal setting before concluding in the evening with our annual black-tie gala dinner and our famed awards ceremony.”

The GCA represents nearly 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 GCA’s annual conference will be held at the Mercure Blackburn Hotel & Spa in Blackburn, Lancashire between January 23 and 26, 2022.

The conference pages on the website will be updated with speaker announcements and full listings as the programme develops and exact timings are confirmed. There is also a dedicated email for any queries you may have: conference@gca.org.uk.

Groves Nurseries in Bridport and Little Groves in Beaminster, the largest Christmas tree suppliers in the area, are helping to spread some Christmas cheer across Bridport and Beaminster with their brand-new initiative, the Great Groves Christmas Tree Appeal.

Last week they put out a call to action to look for local businesses who might want to sponsor a Christmas for local schools and charities around Bridport and they have been overwhelmed by businesses coming forward.

Managing Director Charlie Groves said “Every year we have loads of requests for the donation of Christmas Trees for deserving organisations around Bridport, Beaminster and the surrounding villages. I wanted to find a way to be able to get anyone who needs a tree this year to get one.”

Within a week of asking Groves, 22 other businesses had offered to sponsor a tree that Groves can donate on their behalf. 

With the three trees that are being donated by Groves Nurseries, Ivy House and Little Groves it means that there are 25 Christmas Trees to give away this Christmas.

If you want to suggest an organisation that would like to receive a tree head over to Groves’ Facebook page where you can comment on their Christmas Tree Appeal post until the 5^th of December. They will then randomly select 25 organisations to receive trees and allocated one to each sponsor who can either deliver the tree themselves or Groves will deliver on their behalf.

Of course, Groves wouldn’t be able to offer such a large number of Christmas Trees without the fantastic sponsors who came forward.

A big thanks to all of our sponsors who have allowed us to get this many trees out across Bridport & Beaminster.

• Ed Bailey General Builder
• OCD Cleaning Services Beaminster
• Hartley Accountants
• West Dorset Leisure Holidays
• Bridport Round Table
• DarkBear
• Simon Speak Estate Agent covering Bridport, Dorchester and Weymouth
• Wrixton-Smyth Creations
• Rural Ranges
• Man & Van Bridport
• The Cherry Tree Preserves
• Bredy Veterinary Centre Ltd
• Chesil Security Ltd
• Forest & Tree Care
• Beau Hairdressing Bridport
• The Foot Fairy
• Rainbow Parties Dorset
• South Street Antiques - Bridport
• Imaginary Friends
• H.C. Lewis
• Little Groves Nursery

Ivy House Kitchen

The HTA has called on government to focus on building a more collaborative approach to improving plant biosecurity in its response to the Defra consultation on ‘a plant biosecurity strategy for Great Britain’.

The submission highlights the commitment of those working in ornamental horticulture and their significant experience on plant health and biosecurity best practice, suggesting that this provides an excellent basis for a more self-regulatory approach from government. The focus from government, the HTA says, should be on promoting self-regulatory plant import schemes like a ‘trusted trader’ initiative, as well as directing resources to better tackling ‘rogue traders’. 

Director of Policy and Communications, James Clark said: “This consultation matters hugely to the industry. It will set the framework for a future biosecurity strategy. There’s no question about the importance of plant biosecurity or our commitment as an industry to responsible practices that protect our nation from pests and diseases. 

"We want to be part of working collaboratively with Government on how this strategy can work best to have the right level of biosecurity and plant health protection, while ensuring its proportionate and measured. The influence, enthusiasm and expertise of the industry is an incredible resource that could be better harnessed by the government. 

“Our message to government is we’re incredibly keen to work more collaboratively, but we need to see some change. Introducing a ‘trusted trader’ import scheme that would see businesses who meet the highest standards, underpinned by an accreditation system, receive fewer and lesser inspections, would be a start. 

"Better concentrate your resources on more intelligence-led investigations and enforcement of those ‘rogue traders’ who put our industry and our society at risk. Then together we’ll be putting the biosecurity of our country first."

Southwark Council has transformed a south London park at Elephant and Castle with the help of Wyevale Nurseries in Herefordshire and Devon-based landscaping company Tilhill.

The UK commercial landscape and wholesale plant suppliers provided a selection of trees to Tilhill to help revitalise the inner-city area.

Amenity Sales Manager, Andy Congera explains: “We’re delighted to have been able to supply a variety of stock for this exciting project at Dickens Square. It is now a welcome and versatile place for the whole community to enjoy. It’s a fabulous public space!

“It’s wonderful to see this sort of regeneration happening through what has been very tough Covid times. This is a beacon for a brighter future. It’s really important to also remember how significant green spaces are for everyone in terms of health and wellbeing. This is another thing that has become more apparent throughout the various lockdowns.”

Among the trees that Wyevale Nurseries supplied were Malus sylvestris, Sorbus aucuparia, Carpinus betulus, Liriodendron tulipifera and Quercus robur fastigiata koster.

Phil Ridley, Landscaping Contracts Manager at Tilhill, says: “This project has been delivered through extremely challenging times and I am particularly grateful to everyone involved for their efforts in helping us transform what was once a rather tired corner of south London into an area of high quality public open space, which has exceeded our client’s expectations.”

Wyevale Nurseries’ product selection is envied across the industry and the talented team regularly introduces new, award-winning plant varieties.

Its main business is to supply garden centres, landscape contractors, local authorities, foresters and landowners with a comprehensive array of trees, shrubs, hedging, herbaceous and specimen plants.

Whether you are looking for a new challenge in 2022, fancy tackling a unique half marathon experience or simply want a new way to support the Greenfingers Charity then the London Landmark Half Marathon (April 3rd 2022) could be the solution you are looking for!

The team at Greenfingers have secured a small number of charity places at the 2022 event, with entry to grab one of these limited (and highly unique!) places now open. Entry is free though the Greenfingers fundraising team ask that a minimum fundraising target of £500 is set. Interested parties are invited to email Linda Petrons, Greenfingers Director of Fundraising & Communications via linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk to register their interest.

Talking about this exciting opportunity, Linda Petrons said: “Our supporters always go above and beyond to help us raise much needed funds, with activities such as running events and marathons always a popular option. The London Landmark Half Marathon is a really unique event, unlike any other road race, which is why over 14,000 runners take on the challenge each year, and I’ve no doubt that it will be a popular option for those looking to support Greenfingers in 2022. Whether it’s your first marathon or your 100th, this half marathon is one you won’t forget in a hurry, and neither will we as every penny raised will make a huge difference to those that get to spend time in one of our therapeutic hospice gardens.”

About the London Landmark Half Marathon

Launched in 2014, the London Landmark Half Marathon has been set up to shine a spotlight on not just London’s iconic landmarks, but also its quirky hidden gems. The route - which starts at Nelson’s Column before taking in such landmarks as London Eye, Big Ben, Downing Street, the world’s smallest police station, the largest grasshopper, Guy Fawkes house and so much more – travels through the heart of Westminster and London City, whilst celebrating the rich heritage and culture that shapes our nation’s capital. 

To keep runners motivated, the route will also be adorned with musical performances, DJs, dancers and themed cheer stations, including a floral themed Greenfingers one!  All roads will remain closed for the duration of the race.

Find out more

To find out more about Greenfingers Charity, and how to get involved in a range of fundraising events please visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk/

You can also join in the conversation by joining Greenfingers on social media -https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/, @GreenfingersCha on Twitter, and @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn. 

Dobbies has encouraged people to think sustainably this Christmas, as they marked ‘Bring your Christmas Tree Home Day’.

Dobbies’ annual ‘Bring your Christmas Tree Home Day’ took place on the first Saturday of December and marked the day most shoppers visit their local garden centre to pick up their real cut or pot grown Christmas trees.

This year, the UK’s leading garden centre retailer has launched a new range of real Christmas trees for every space, making it easier to find the perfect tree no matter your style or budget. From small trees like the pot grown Picea ‘Conica’, ideal for compact spaces; to the slim grade Nordmann Fir, perfect for tight spots; to the impressive Premium grade Nordmann Fir for large rooms, there is something for every home, so you can do Christmas your way.

This ‘Bring your Christmas Tree Home Day’, Dobbies is encouraging shoppers buying real trees to think ahead about how they can reuse their Christmas centrepiece once the festivities are over. The garden centre has announced its top tips on how people can repurpose their cut Christmas trees to create a wildlife haven for small animals and insects to shelter in during the winter months and reduce waste in the new year. This is part of the #SustainableDobbies campaign, in which the retailer raises awareness of sustainable products and practices for customers and supporters.

Dobbies’ Horticultural Director, Marcus Eyles said: “Choosing a real tree is one of the most-loved Christmas traditions, and on this year’s ‘Bring Your Christmas Tree Home Day’, we want to encourage people to be mindful of how they can recycle their cut real trees once the festivities are over.

“Cut real Christmas trees can be a great tool when it comes to creating a safe place for wildlife to shelter during the winter months, so we’re delighted to show people how they can make use of their trees once the Christmas decorations have come down.”

Fay Vass, Chief Executive of British Hedgehog Preservation Society said: “We’re delighted that Dobbies are shining a light on ways in which people can create a safe space for hedgehogs and other wildlife in their gardens. Hedgehog numbers are in decline, and they have recently been added to the UK Red List as a species that is vulnerable to extinction. We all need to play our part in improving their habitat and we hope people will take advantage of these tips to help create a safe place for wildlife in their gardens.”

Marcus has outlined a step-by-step guide on how people can reuse their real cut Christmas trees to make a wildlife haven in their gardens in the new year:

1. Remove the tree from your house carefully to stop any loose needles from dropping. Marcus recommends wearing thick gloves to protect your hands.
2. Using a good quality pair of secateurs, starting from the top remove each branch as close as possible to the main stem.
3. Stack the branches together four or five pieces high and place onto soil or leaves under large shrubs, trees or hedges.
4. Repeat this process until all the branches are used. This will provide a great shelter for small animals and insects to protect them from the worst of the winter weather. Marcus points out that the needles and branches will breakdown over time to produce organic matter than will enrich the soil.
5. For the main trunk of the tree use a pruning saw to cut into 30cm lengths, which can then be stacked to make a mini log pile which is a great habitat for wildlife to shelter in.

Dobbies is encouraging the children who attend its Little Seedlings Club to take the lead in creating wildlife shelters.

Ethan Firth, Dobbies Little Seedling Ambassador, adds: “Christmas is a time to create fond

memories and what better way than to keep a memory of Christmas whilst considering the environment and being sustainable all at the same time! I plan to re-pot our family pot grown Christmas tree and reuse for next Christmas, and the cut Christmas tree in my bedroom I’m going to recycle and make a hedgehog shelter.”

To find out more about Dobbies, visit dobbies.com

To find out more about the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, visit britishhedgehogs.org.uk

Customers at Buckingham Garden Centre who purchase a cut Christmas tree will be helping to plant trees in Africa in 2022.

Despite the continuing issues with the pandemic, customers visiting Buckingham Garden Centre have proved there’s plenty of Christmas cheer when it comes to lifting festive spirits. 

The Garden Centre’s publicity manager, Chris Day said: “There’s a much more orderly approach to Christmas this year and our customers are planning accordingly. We know anecdotally that many of our customers have been buying a real tree for the very first time or purchasing a second tree for decorating outside to help bring some much welcome Christmas cheer to the neighbourhood.”

For the second year running the Garden Centre has been working with a local UK charity, Ripple Africa, to help raise money and awareness of tree planting in Malawi. The Garden Centre pledged 50p to the charity for every Christmas tree sold, so they are delighted to be donating funds for the ongoing projects of the Ripple Africa charity. For every 50p donated this way, two trees will be planted in Malawi.

Geoffrey Furber, the Founder of Ripple Africa, said: “A huge thank you to Buckingham Garden Centre and their customers for supporting our tree planting project in Malawi. Not only does each 50p enable people to plant two trees, it also contributes to our community forest conservation work both of which help the local communities and their environment.” 

To donate to Ripple Africa’s plant a tree campaign, you can visit the Ripple Africa website www.rippleafrica.org/xmastree or text one of the following numbers: 

• To Donate £3 to plant 12 trees text: XMASTREE to 70331
• To Donate £5 to plant 20 trees text: XMASTREE to 70970
• To Donate £10 to plant 40 trees text: XMASTREE to 70191

Over the years Ripple Africa has developed its environmental projects as a result of deforestation in Malawi. Their first environmental project was community tree planting. This continues to be a very successful project with about two million trees planted each year. To date Ripple Africa have planted over 17 million trees with tree planting farmers and their families in Malawi. 

To find out more about Ripple Africa visit their website www.rippleafrica.org or contact Chris Day, Plant Publicity Manager on 01280 827910 or 07941009492, e-mail chris@hedging.co.uk

November 2021 garden centre sales volumes overall set a new record high for the month according to the Epos data analysed every week by GTN Bestsellers.  Sales of all barcoded products were 4% higher than 2020 and 14% higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

And that’s despite the last week of November being slightly down on last year by 5%. With three full trading weeks left for the calendar year, year to date sales volumes are now 18% up on 2019 levels.  It would appear garden centres are still winning the hearts and minds of shoppers.  Long may that continue.

Plants up by 27%

November 2021 plant sales were up by 27% on 2019 in the GTN Bestsellers weekly Epos data.

The total for the month was down by 4% on last year, but the comparison to pre-pandemic levels is the indicator everybody will be watching for potential long term market growth.

Garden Products down in November

The Top 50 Garden Products sales volumes are the one area where sales have not matched the overall sales growth post pandemic.

November Top 50 volumes this year were 11% down on 2020 levels and 35% down on 2019 levels when some new garden lighting lines sold in high volumes. 

Growing extending through to winter

November’s Growing Media Top 50 sales volumes were 13% down on 2020 but 44% up on 2019 indicating a continued growth in growing activity from new gardeners and more keener gardeners who are extending their growing activity right though to winter.

Christmas in November up by 9% vs 2019

Last week didn’t quite meet the record high of last year for the GTN Bestsellers Top 50 Christmas sales volume index but overall for November Christmas sales were 9% up on 2019 levels and just 2% down on last year.

Given the clamour to buy Christmas last year after #lockdown 1 and the issues with quite a lot of Christmas stock arriving late this year everyone we’ve met over the past few weeks is suitably happy with their Christmas trading this year.

Veg 2 Gro sales a good omen for next Spring

Veg 2 Gro sales, albeit small volumes at this time of the year were up by 20% on last year for the month of November, and up by 43% on November 2019.  If core veg growing is an indicator of keenness, this is a good omen for next spring.

Mild November hits Wild Bird Care sales

Wild Bird Care sales suffered from the mild start to November and closed the month 17% down on 2020 levels.  Garden Centres will be hoping that sales bounce back now that cold weather has set in.

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week in 2020: week 48.

• Garden Products Top 50 – down 14%
• Growing Media Top 50 – down 25%
• Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – up 7%
• Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – down 11%
• Christmas Top 50 – down 2%

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week in 2020: week 48

•           All Plants with Barcode index – down 17%

•           All Items with Barcode index – down 5%

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week in the GTN Bestsellers printed newsletter.  Subscribe for just £145 a year using this link.

Last Friday, 3rd December, new operators, Lush Landscapes, took over the running of the plant and garden centre at Windlesham after Nicholas Marshalls Country House Group pulled out.

Charlie Wooldridge, of Wooldridge Developments the landlords of the Lavershot Barns site told GTN Xtra: " By mutual agreement we've appointed Lush Landscapes who are already on the site in a design capacity to take over the running of the plant and garden centre."

The Country House Group started trading at Windlesham ealier this year with an objective of being local, sustainable, peat free and British.  It was a trial for their planned future developments at numerous country houses across England in coming years.

The iconic Baby Bio® brand, which has been feeding the nation’s houseplants for 70 years, has expanded its portfolio of impressive houseplant care products with the launch of Baby Bio® Organic Houseplant Food.

The new product, which will be available to stockists in January 2022, will give retailers the chance to offer customers an organic plant food with the trust and reliability of a much-loved, popular brand, meeting the growing consumer demand for organic products in the houseplant and gardening sector.

OF&G-approved, the natural, seaweed infused plant feed contains all three main nutrients houseplants require to thrive – nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium - stimulating growth and keeping houseplants healthy, organically.

Baby Bio® Organic Houseplant Food contains a high potassium value with a NPK ratio of 3-2-5 to help promote healthy blooms and encourage greater flowering whilst helping to build natural disease resistance and hardiness. It also contains nitrogen to aid healthy foliage development and added seaweed for stimulating root and plant growth.

Packaged in the brand’s instantly recognisable bottle in an earthy, natural stone-coloured wrap, the new product will be available in 175ml bottles ready for the spring 2022 season. Retailers will also benefit from the exciting new in-store point of sale display units to help attract interest and catch the eye of the consumer.

James Ramnought, Head of Marketing for Baby Bio®, commented on the launch: “We’re delighted to introduce the new Organic Food to our retail partners, expanding our iconic range to meet the growing demand for organic products.

“Our much-loved Baby Bio products have been helping houseplants bloom since 1951, so we’re incredibly excited to be introducing a new product to our range, tapping into a new market of houseplant parents with a product that will help customers’ houseplants bloom organically.”

The new launch strengthens Baby Bio’s portfolio of care products, which includes the iconic Houseplant Food, Orchid Food, Cactus Food, Bonsai Food, Citrus Food and Herb Food as well as its drip feeders, Houseplant Bug Killer and Leaf Shine spray.

For more information, visit: https://www.solabiol.com/en/baby-bio-houseplant-food.

David Austin Roses enters the season of giving by donating £100,000 to its chosen health-based charities this year.

Since the spring as part of its Positive Planting initiative, the rose breeder has been busy raising donations through sales of the Generous Gardener (Ausdrawn), Princess Alexandra of Kent (Ausmerchant) and the new Nye Bevan (Auspital) rose.

Over £30,000 will be donated to each of the company’s chosen 2021 charities - The National Garden Scheme, the Alexandra Rose Charity and NHS Charities Together - towards their invaluable work in supporting the health and wellbeing of their beneficiaries.

As part of the initiative, the team at David Austin planted 21 roses at hospices around the country in partnership with the National Garden Scheme. Alongside its usual community planting commitments, the company was honoured to be in involved in the inauguration of the new sensory gardens at Bedwellty House in Tredegar, Wales, home of Nye Bevan’s political career, with the planting of a bed of stunning, newly introduced ‘Nye Bevan’ roses.

Of the company’s fundraising efforts this year, Richard Austin commented:

“It has been wonderful throughout this season to know our work has helped to raise much needed funds for such vital causes. Roses and health have always been interlinked and it has been a privilege to support our chosen health-based charities this year, alongside the many others we have supported over the years. We thank our customers for planting positively with us and enabling us to make such a significant contribution.”

Spring Fair, the UK’s largest and most important marketplace for the home, gift, fashion and design retail industry, has collaborated with Trend Bible to produce an exclusive Christmas 2022 Trends Report which will be launched on a webinar at 11am on Thursday 9th of December 2021.

The exclusive deep dive into buying trends for 2022 is hosted by Kate Usher, senior trend consultant at Trend Bible. She will unpack the colour, pattern and product trends for Christmas 2022, as well as examine consumer behaviours and how this will translate into ranging ideas that will fly out the door with your customers in 2022.

Offering a sneak peak of what to expect from the webinar, Kate reveals; “For Christmas 2022, gatherings and being together are all the more cherished with the pandemic having led to a reappraisal and newfound appreciation of life, family, friendship and kinship. I’ll be exploring two (quite opposing) trends from our 2022 Festive Forecast report; Loud & Proud is about creating new traditions that bring real joy, with inclusive gifting and messaging ensuring nobody feels left out. Get ready to mix up traditional occasions by introducing a dose of much needed fun. And, White Winter sees consumers driven by a continued search for improved health and wellbeing and a rejection of the superfluous excess that the season can bring. This minimalist, palate-cleansing trend will set the scene for moments of reset and recharge.”

Suzanne Ellingham, Head of Content, Hyve Group plc adds; “Christmas is a special time on the high street, the experience is something that can’t be replicated with a click, and the news that the average consumer is looking to spend an average of £489 each on Christmas gifting will provide a welcome boost in this year’s golden quarter. 

However, whilst consumers may be focussed on 2021, retailers are already planning for the most important retail period of the year, Christmas 2022. We know how important Christmas ranging is to our visitors, and hope this report, and the supporting webinar, helps them understand what’s driving consumer changes, and also inspires creativity in their ranging too. We are excited to be collaborating with Trend Bible to delve deeper into the trends and buying behaviours to help retailers get one step ahead in planning for 2022.”

To register to attend the Christmas Trends Webinar, please visit:  https://www.bigmarker.com/hyve/What-to-buy-Christmas-Trends-2022

Spring Fair takes place at the NEC Birmingham on the 6^th – 9^th February 2022. With four key buying destinations to get excited about - Home, Gift (incorporating Greetings, Floral, Party and Christmas), Fashion and Design & Source – Spring Fair offers a treasure trove of much loved and established favourites as well as an array of new brands and designers showing for the first time. With its unparalleled cross-buying opportunities, the inspirational show creates a compelling and unmissable platform for buyers to touch, feel, and experience the latest products, trends and innovations across home, gift, fashion, and sourcing – from across the UK and overseas.

For further information on Spring Fair please visit: www.springfair.com

Evergreen Garden Care has developed a range of new products under the Clear™ brand which effectively target a range of pest and disease gardening issues, while meeting the growing consumer demand for greener gardening.

Whether consumers are faced with aphids demolishing their roses, or flies attacking their food in the kitchen, they want to use products that effectively and quickly deal with the problem in ways that are kinder to nature. Until now the range of Clear™ products were mostly synthetic and divided between two brands (Clear™ & Home Defence™), the existing range will now be joined by new environmentally friendly options and all be featured under the Clear™ branding.

The new and improved formulas are now all certified by OF&G (Organic Farmers & Growers), using formulas that are mainly from plant-based ingredients – exclusively developed by the scientists at Evergreen Garden Care.

There are seven new sub-categories in the range, including: RoseClear®, FungusClear®, BugClear™, FlyClear™, MothClear™, AntClear™ and SlugClear™ to solve a range of problems in gardens and homes.

After extensive research of 13,000 gardeners carried out in 2018, Evergreen Garden Care identified that consumers, from novice to experienced, purchased pest and diseases products with a sense of urgency for three reasons: due to pests in and around their home and garden, for convenience, and ease of use. However, with many people conscious of pest control around their children and pets, there has been a significant increase in the demand for pesticide free and natural products, with solutions that are kinder to nature.

The NEW Clear™ range was developed to resolve the barriers identified by this consumer insight. The main goal is to encourage gardeners to effectively and safely treat their pest and disease issues in a more considerate and environmentally friendly way.

Mark Portman, Managing Director of Evergreen Garden Care says: ‘‘The launch of the Clear™ Range is another exciting development for us and puts consumer trends and demands at the heart of our innovation. Our goal is to encourage gardeners to treat their pest and disease issues fast, effectively and with products which are kinder to nature.  We are proud to have created unique formulas which not only offer effective protection but are also OF&G accredited and mostly made from plant-based active ingredients.”

RoseClear® 3in1, For Roses and Flowering Plants

As its name suggests, RoseClear® is ideal for roses and other ornamental plants. Its unique characteristics kill aphids (greenfly & blackfly), larvae and adults, in addition to controlling fungus, and protects against further infestations – including new growth. It is also certified for use in organic gardening and advised to use up to six times a year to achieve maximum effect.

Formulation:  10 g/l fatty acid + 4 g/l Sulphur – a combo of contact insecticide and fungicide. Packaging: the bottle is made of 100% recycled material and can be recycled.
Price: Available from January 2022, in both the UK and Ireland – 800ml, RPP: £7.99

FungusClear® Ultra 2, For Flowering Plants

Fungusclear® helps fight existing infections such as powdery mildew, black spots and rust, protects from new attacks and defoliation. Certified for use in organic gardening, FungusClear™ can be used outdoors and indoors, for up to six treatments per year.

Formulation: 4 g/L sulphur - a contact fungicide.
Packaging: the bottle is made of 100% recycled material and can be recycled.
Price: Available from January 2022, in the UK only – 800ml, RPP: £6.99

BugClear™, For Flowers and Shrubs

BugClear™ protects flowers, shrubs, fruit and vegetables from harmful pests. The range includes two concentrates – BugClear™ Ultra 2concentrate and BugClear™ Fruit and Vegetable concentrate, in addition to a new BugClear™ Insect Glue Barrier.

The BugClear™ Ultra 2 concentrate controls aphids, spider mites, mealy bugs, caterpillars, lily and leaf beetles. It is also effective against eggs, larvae and adult stages. When applied, its effects can be seen within one use.

Formulation: rapeseed oil & pyrethrins (a chrysanthemum flower extract).
Packaging: Bottle and box are made out of 100% recyclable materials.
Price: 200ml, RPP: £10.99, only available in the UK from January 2022.

The BugClear™ Fruit and Vegetable concentrate controls aphids, mealy bugs, red spider mites and other mites. It is ideal for fruit, vegetables, and ornamentals, and can be used in organic gardening– same day spay and eat.

Formula: rapeseed oil and an emulsifiable concentrate.
Packaging: The bottle is made out of 100% recyclable materials.
Price: 210 ml, RPP £10.99 – Available in the UK and Ireland from January 2022.

BugClear™ Insect Glue Barrier is ideal for fruit trees as it protects against winter moths laying eggs, vine weevil and other pests. It can be used from the end of October until April.

Made out of natural glue, its thickness of 5m of glue is a strong natural barrier, and safe for pets, children and wildlife.

Packaging: Made out of 100% recycled material and can be recycled.
Price: £6.99, available January 2022.

Slug Clear™

SlugClear™ range consist of two different products: SlugClear™ Ultra 3 and SlugClear™ Slug Barrier.

SlugClear™ Ultra 3 kills slugs and snails and protects gardens for up to two weeks. Certified for use in organic gardening, it is suitable for grow your own crops and ideal for salads, strawberries, brassicas and ornamentals. For outdoor and greenhouse use – slugs and snails crawl into hiding in the ground and die.

Formula: 7.43g/kg ferric phosphate.
Packaging: Bottle is made of 100% recycled material and can be recycled.
Price: 300g - RPP: £3.99, 685g - £6.99, available from January 2022.

SlugClear™ Barrier is ideal for protecting vegetables, fruit and ornamental crops from slugs and snails. It blends in with the soil which keeps your garden looking its best, with the additional benefit or it being safe for pets, children and wildlife. It can be used from March to October and is rain resistant and long lasting.

Formula: Natural volcanic lava granules.
Packaging: Box is made of 100% recycled material and can be recycled.
Price: 2.5kg, £7.99, Available from January 2022.

FlyClear for Flying Insects

FlyClear™ is an aerosol spray that kills wasps, flies and other flying insects within seconds of being used.  There are two varieties of spray, FlyClear™ Wasp & Fly killer and FlyClear™ Wasp & Hornet Killer, in addition to a Fly Trap.

FlyClear™ is a wasp and fly killer which effectively kills flying insects such as flies, wasps, moths and mosquitoes with an immediate effect.  The 2nd product in the range: The FlyClear™ Wasp and Hornet Killer effectively kills wasp and hornets thanks to its precision tool. Certified by OF&G and produced from a plant based active ingredient, both products are odour free and can be used in and around the house and garden.

Formulation: 0,5g/kg pyrethrins and 1,5g/kg piperonyl butoxide (an enhancer).
Packaging: The cap is made from PP, 100% recyclable, and the bottle made of aluminium and is recyclable.
Price: The Wasp and Fly Killer spray, 400ml, RPP £4.99. Wasp and Hornet Killer spray, 400ml RPP £5.99, available January 2022.

FlyClear™ Traps is effective in both attracting and trapping flies (common and fruit & vegetable flies). It is also odour and pesticide free and therefore safe to use in and around the house. Made out of pheromones, the formula lures flies to the sticky glue pads to capture them. Lasting several weeks, one trap with cover a 1.5m2 window.

Packaging: Folding box made of 100% recycled paper – box recyclable but plastic sleeve to be disposed separately.
Price: £3.99 for a box of 4 traps, available January 2022.

MothClear™

The MothClear™ range contains two products: MothClear ™Traps and MothClear™ Repellent.

MothClear™ traps are a fast and effective way to attract and trap moths. With its pesticide free and odour free formula, it is safe to use in and around the house and around pets and children. After removing its protective film, infestation can be detected for up to three months. Made out of pheromones, it lures moths to the sticky glue pads, making them unable to escape once captured. One trap is sufficient for a room up to 30m2.

Formula: Pheromones sticky trap.
Packaging: Folding box made of 100% recycled paper and is recyclable.
Price: £3.99 for a pack of 2 trap. Available in the UK only from January 2022.

MothClear™ repellent is a fast and effective repellent for clothes moths and their larvae. With its plant based active ingredients and fresh scent, it is safe to use in and around the house. After removing its protective film, the repellent works for up to 3-months. It’s built- in hanger design is ideal for wardrobes and other storage area.

Formula: Geraniol + essential oils – (derived from roses and geraniums) - A unique developed membrane that continuously releases small amounts of the scented oil.
Packaging: Folding box made of 100% recycled paper and is recyclable.
Price: £3.99 for a pack of 2. Available from January 22

AntClear™

The AntClear™ control range consists of an AntClear™ Control Bait Station, AntClear™ Control Spray and AntClear™ Control Granules.

AntClear™ control bait station destroys ants and their nests by being lured into the bait station thinking the gel is food. Derived from soil bacterium and chrysanthemum flower extract, the OF&G certified product is safe to use around the house – indoor and out – as long as it is weather protected.

Formulation: soil bacterium and chrysanthemum flower extract
Packaging: Blister card made of 100% recycled material and recyclable, except the bait station.
Price: £3.99, available from January 22

AntClear™ Control Spray kills ants within minutes after application, when sprayed directly on ants, walking paths or shelters. Based on active ingredients derived from plants, it is safe to use around the house – indoors and out – however, it is recommended to avoid using outdoor when rain is forecast.

Formula: Chrysanthemum cineriaefolium + Piperonyl butoxide (enhancer).
Packaging: Made out of 100% recycled material.
Price: 800ml, RPP £6.99, available from January 22

AntClear™ Control Granules kills ants and their nests and forms a long-lasting barrier for up to 1 month. It’s ready to use, dust free granules are made with a sugar-based carrier which attracts ants – simply apply directly on ants, their walking paths and shelter areas.

Formula: Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium, extract from flowers
Packaging: Composite box is made of 70% recycled paper (TBC)
Price: 300g, RPP: £6.99, Available from January 22

For more information, please visit www.lovethegarden.com.

In this Glee Review issue of GTN:

• Vitax increases range and capacity
• Remembering Eddie Topping MBE
• Capturing the essence of Autumn at Chelsea
• Get Grilling with Traeger
• Glee 2021 – a special return
• Glee Buyers Power List
• Glee New Product Awards
• Sustainability Award – Southern Trident
• Glee 2021 Gallery
• Floral Thursday for Greenfingers Charity
• GTN Bestsellers Subscription Offer
• GTN Bestsellers – September garden centre sales analysis and charts
• Garden Centre Books
• HTA Column – Tales of the unexpected
• GIMA Column – The future is looking bright.

GTN's Greatest Awards team of experts are out in force this week and the following two weeks visiting the teams at the 57 Garden Centres nominated in this year's Greatest Christmas Awards.

The judges will be meeting the teams at the centres, listed below, to find out just what makes them so great across 14 Christmas Award categories ranging from The Greatest Christmas Houseplant team to The Greatest Christmas Sizzle team for seasonal sales of BBQ's and the like.  And with the recent changes in FaceMask wearing there's also an award for The Greatest COVID Safe Christmas Team.

Huge thanks goes to our sponsors: Woodlodge, Elho, DCUK, Solex and Global Journey for making the face to face visits possible this year.

Here's the list of the 57 nominated centres:

ACW Garden Centre, Albrighton – BGC, Altons, Aylett Nurseries, Barton Grange, Baytree Garden Centre, Bents, Blue Diamond Cadbury, Blue Diamond Derby, Blue Diamond Newbridge, Bosworths, Braintree – BGC, Bridgnorth – BGC, Brigg Garden Centre – BGC, Brookside Garden Centre - Kent, Burford House – BGC, Cherry Lane Podington, Coolings Green & Pleasant, Coolings Main Road, Downtown Garden Centre, Fron Goch, Garsons, Gates Garden Centre, Glendoick Garden Centre, Gouldings, Groves Bridport, Hetland, Hillmount Ards, Hillmount Belfast, Hillmount Cheshire, Hilmount Bangor, Lakeside Plant Centre, Little Dobbies Richmond, Millbrook Gravesend, Newquay Garden Centre, Pengelly Garden Centre, Perrywood Sudbury, Perrywood Tiptree, Planters Bretby, Planters Tamworth, Pughs Radyr, Pughs Wenvoe, Rosebourne – Aldermaston, Rosebourne – Weyhill, Sapcote Garden Centre, Silverbirch, Squires Badshot Lea, Studley – BGC, Tates South Downs, Thatcham – BGC, The Old Railway Line, Waresley Park Carden Centre, Webbs Wychbold, Woodbank Garden Centre, Woodlands Garden Centre, Woodthorpe – BGC, Woseley – BGC

And here's the list of categories they are vying to be The Greatest in:

• The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team
• The Greatest Outdoor Plant and Christmas Tree Team    
• The Greatest Festive Food Hall Team      
• The Greatest Christmas Sizzle Team        
• The Greatest Christmas Pets Team          
• The Greatest Christmas Community or Charity Initiative
• The Greatest Social Media Christmas Marketing Idea       
• The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Video     
• The Greatest Winter Garden Care Sales Team     
• The Greatest Covid Safe Christmas Team              
• The Greatest Group Garden Centre Christmas Team        

After all the judging visits, GTN's team of experts will be meeting up early in the new year to decide upon the winners and they will be announced and presented on The Stage at Spring Fair on Monday 7th February at 5:00pm.  See you there!

To whet your appetite for the galleries of garden centre Christmas photos we'll be bringing you in GTN Xtra and GTN magazine over the coming weeks and months, here are photos frm one of our early judging visits to Burford House - BGC.

Following a period of unprecedented growth Meadow View Stone are looking to appoint two territory sales agents for the following areas: 

• Sales Agent for North Yorkshire & North East
• Sales Agent for Scotland

Successful candidates will have a proven track record of account acquisitions and have the ability to develop and grow existing accounts whilst maintaining and merchandising stock within the Garden Centre sector.

This person will also have good relationships with major buying groups, have the ability to monitor competitor activity and put forward effective and innovative ways of maximizing sales.

It is essential that you have had good exposure to independent garden centre business in the area in question and a background selling within a core gardening category would be preferred, but is not essential. 

Candidates can live anywhere in the respective regions or within the immediate vicinity.

Essential skills required are: 

• A skilled negotiator, immaculate presentation and a strong commercial acumen.
• Computer literate and a self-starter with the tenacity, motivation and determination to track down new business.
• Experience selling into the Garden Centre market is essential with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. 

If you would like to apply for this exciting position, please send your CV to Sarah Hill – MD at sarah@meadowviewstone.co.uk.

NOW HIRING: Plant Department Manager | Full Time | Salary: £27,000-£30,000 (depending on experience) | Pugh's Garden Village Wenvoe

This is an exciting opportunity to work for our award-winning, family-run business that is expanding in the wonderful industry of plants and horticulture.

If you have proven retail experience, excellent communication skills with colleagues and customers and the ability to deliver excellent retail standards then we'd love to hear from you. Please send your CV and covering letter to kpugh@pughsgardencentre.co.uk. Full job description here: https://bit.ly/3DGqDSh 

• Pugh's Staff Wellbeing Benefits:
  As a permanent employee of Pugh's, after passing your probation period you will be entitled to the following
  20%-50% Staff Discounts
  Monthly Prize Draws worth £100
  Individual Staff Life Insurance
  Health Assured - Staff Health & Well-Being Support Scheme
  Yearly Personal Development Reviews
  £30 Uniform Allowance
  Yearly Holiday Giveaway
  and more

https://www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk/vacancies/36/plant-area-manager?fbclid=IwAR2oukYUX4FWb7Gkr0Wx8NxxNdiZ_HpZXRr3j4JpTsGbsvIxzbzO_50tSaw

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The BBC and RHS have extended their exclusive broadcast partnership for a further three years to bring gardening inspiration from the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, RHS Malvern Spring Festival, RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival and RHS Flower Show Tatton Park to millions of homes across the UK.

The new contract, which starts in 2022, will see the BBC commit to broadcasting from the events until the end of 2024 and means the BBC retains its position as the exclusive broadcaster of RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Whilst RHS Chelsea Flower Show, as the world’s most famous gardening event, will continue with its standalone BBC programmes, RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival and RHS Flower Show Tatton Park will now be broadcast through BBC Gardeners’ World, like RHS Malvern Spring Festival, to be enjoyed by much bigger engaged audiences.

The creation of RHS Garden Bridgewater is one of the largest projects in Europe, as the garden continues to develop and build even more links with local community groups and schools, the BBC will be following the continued creation and journey through all phases.

Catherine Catton, Head of Commissioning, Popular Factual and Factual Entertainment says: “I’m really pleased that we are working with the brilliant RHS team for another three years. The RHS events are a real highlight in the gardening calendar and I’m delighted that our continued partnership enables us to share these showstopping events with a wide BBC audience.”   

Hayley Monckton, RHS Director of Communications, says: “The RHS has enjoyed 19 consecutive years with the BBC as its broadcast partner to bring the horticultural highlights of its Flower Shows to millions of people in the UK and around the world, enthusing many of them to grow more plants and garden.

“RHS Hampton and RHS Tatton featuring on BBC Gardeners’ World will help us share the plant displays and spectacular gardens from these events with a wider audience.  We have never worked with so many BBC outlets, across all our work, to bring the joy of gardening to so many people and we are excited to be continuing this fabulous partnership.”

Coverage of RHS Chelsea Flower Show is produced by BBC Studios and the number of hours of coverage will remain similar to previous years.

As of 1 January 2022, Go Green B.V. and Retail Solutions B.V. will merge and continue operating as Green Solutions B.V.

The two companies will join forces through this merger by combining the volumes and buying strength of Retail Solutions B.V. and the knowledge and expertise of Go Green B.V.

The Roos brothers started focussing on sales of garden plants and houseplants to garden centres in England by incorporating Go Green B.V. in 2004. Retail Solutions B.V. was founded in 2010 with a focus on supplying DIY's and supermarkets throughout Europe. Even though both entities were founded separately at the start, they have had a close partnership since the beginning and both organisations have experienced extensive growth and development over the years. The companies focussed on the Brexit, the threefold expansion of the location and the continued optimisation of the supply chain using IT innovations in the past years.

In the upcoming years, Green Solutions B.V. will strive to become a state of the art trading company for all plants, that enjoys working with our respected partners as one experienced and agile team based on its own strength. Both entities will be merged into Green Solutions B.V. to achieve the best possible relationship between Green Solutions B.V. and its partners. “Proudly connecting”.

Specialist business property advisor Christie & Co has been appointed to bring to the market, Millbrook Garden Centre near Monmouth in South Wales for the first time in 50 years.

Owned and operated by the Wright family since 1971, this family-run garden centre is renowned for its superb horticultural offering, which includes a wide range of unusual plants including exotics. The business, which enjoys little local competition, has thrived in recent years, benefiting from the recent upsurge in gardening as a result of the pandemic.

The site is located close to the historic town of Monmouth, on the edge of the beautiful Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean and has plenty to offer, being close to seven acres in all. The grounds feature a number of historic buildings, including a former mill that has been converted into a large five-bedroom house, along with a detached café and substantial dedicated retail area which require some investment. There is also ample customer parking on site.

Tom Glanvill, Retail Associate Director at Christie & Co is handling the sale and comments: “We are seeing unprecedented demand for garden centres, following a period of exceptional trade in the last year. Millbrook is the ideal offering; a strong established freehold business on a large site, with huge potential for further development to modernise the centre and increase the range of products available.”

Corby & Fellas Ltd. has announced that Fron Goch Garden Centre, based in Caernarfon, North Wales, has chosen WinRetail as its EPoS and Retail Management system.

Fron Goch, which is one of the leading garden centres in North Wales, implemented WinRetail in September 2021, and is now beginning to benefit from the wealth of information that they can glean from the system and the level of control that it gives them.

Fron Goch, who had no previous experience of using EPoS or Retail Management Control software were, not unnaturally, cautious when it came to introducing WinRetail into their business. Fortunately, C&F was able to bring their knowledge of dealing with garden centres who had no legacy systems in place, such as Hillier Nurseries and Klondyke & Strikes Garden Centres.

Fortunately for us Fron Goch’s management and staff approached the task of setting up and implementing the new system with great enthusiasm and with an open mind.

Fron Goch have found that one of the benefits of having had no previous system in place is that there was no requirement to convert data from an existing system to the new one, which can sometimes be a challenging and complex process. However, having never run a system presents its own challenges, in that there is no past experience to draw upon.   

Corby + Fellas are both excited and delighted to be working with Fron Goch, and hope that they will benefit from using WinRetail for many years to come.

Pictured, from left to right: Emma Boulton (Customer Service Manager), Kati Taylor (Head of Retail and Marketing), Paul Sewell (Business Systems Manager), Melanie Williams (Director), and Justin Williams (Managing Director).

Natalie Porter, Sales and Marketing Manager at Porters Fuchsias, is running the #themostjumperful fundraiser campaign again.

“Given the industry's enjoyment of my humiliation based festive fundraising last year (and the invaluable funds we raised for fantastic horti charities) it has been decided that #themostjumperful fundraiser will continue, and that each participant will nominate a new jumper wearer for the following year.

“My box of jumpers is currently on its way to Mr Boyd Douglas-Davies, who has chosen to fundraise for Greenfingers Charity.

“Boyd will wear a different Christmas jumper every day from 1st to 25th December and I will document his journey through themostjumperful.co.uk

“The aim is to at least match 2020's fundraising total (£2500), by hopefully finding companies to sponsor each of the 25 days at £100.

“If anybody is willing to sponsor Boyd, please contact me to choose a date! The jumpers I have sent include many of last year's favourites as well as a few newbies... please bear in mind the difference in height and gender between Boyd and me when considering the value of his humiliation.”

Natalie can be contact at  nat@happyplants.co.uk

Squire’s Garden Centre on Heathlands Road in Wokingham has revealed a stunning new look for its Food Hall.

The Food Hall at Squire’s has expanded, and has been beautifully updated to offer customers a huge amount of choice. Explore the very best eats and treats, from store cupboard essentials and fresh fruit and vegetables, to award-winning frozen meals from COOK, goodies such as delicious cakes and biscuits, as well as local beers, wines and spirits.

The Food Hall also now contains a butcher and a bakery. Popular JL Butchers has moved from their shop in West Byfleet to be located at Squire’s. They were voted ‘Butchers shop of the year’ in the Surrey Life Food & Drink Awards 2019 and are known for their top-quality British meat and great customer service. Customers can also buy sweet and savoury treats from family business Cavan Bakery. They produce delicious artisan breads, croissants, pastries, a wide variety of cakes, as well as savoury pies and sausage rolls from their hot counter.

It’s no wonder that the Food Hall at Squire’s is referred to as ‘the home of delicious discoveries’!

The foodie focus takes the garden centre site back to its roots, as before it became a garden centre in the 1980s it was part of Heathlands Farm, a large growing operation that supplied fruit to retailers and had a popular farm shop on the site. The focus is still very much on local produce, with many products sourced from suppliers across Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire. You can buy hand-crafted Real Ales from Bond Brews, who are based just across the road from Squire’s, and local fruit from Hall Hunter, which comes from the field behind the garden centre - you can’t get any more local than that!

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres commented: “I am delighted that we have opened our enhanced Food Hall at Squire’s in Wokingham. Supporting local suppliers and working closely with the local community has been at the heart of our philosophy for more than 85 years. I hope that customers old and new will enjoy our expanded Food Hall which now contains Cavan Bakery and JL Butchers – very handy with Christmas coming up! We also have a great selection of home baking goodies to get you into the festive spirit.”

The Food Hall at Squire’s is open every day, 9am-6pm Monday to Saturday, and 10.30am to 4.30pm on Sundays. It’s a relaxed and welcoming place to come and browse at your leisure, plus there’s free parking, and beautiful plants, garden accessories and gifts to see while you’re there.

Angie Goosen, from the Blue Diamond Group, accepting the Retas Trophy, with Seth Woodmansterne (right).

Bernaville Nurseries near Exeter and the Blue Diamond Group picked up honours at The Retas 2021 greeting card retailer awards.

Bernaville won the Best Garden Centre Retailer of Greeting Cards for independent centres while Blue Diamond to the multiple or group award.

The Retas 2021 presentations, which took place at The Grosvenor House Hotel in London’s Mayfair,  saw greeting card retail stockists from right across the retail spectrum recognised, rewarded and celebrated.

The ever-popular event was attended by over 300 greeting card retailers, publishers and suppliers and hosted by comedian Stuart Goldsmith.

In keeping with the thriving passion for houseplants and gardening, as well as the yearn for green shoots of optimism, the theme of The Retas 2021 was The Finery of Greenery.

An online gardening platform is looking to hire a team of 10 people from different regions across the UK to be it's ‘Christmas Centre Critics’, visiting garden centres in a £50 per hour job role.

The platform is hiring for the position after a survey of more than 2,000 Brits found that two thirds (66%) of Brits visit one during the festive period every year.

The critics' feedback will be used to create a map of the UK’s best Christmas garden centres; members of the public can also nominate their favourite centres to be included in the national ranking.

An online gardening platform is recruiting a team of 10 ‘Christmas Centre Critics’ from different regions around the UK to help find and rank the best garden centres at Christmas. Successful candidates will be paid £50/hr each to visit and review garden centres in their local area.

Whatshed.co.uk is hiring for the role after a survey of more than 2,000 Brits revealed that visiting a garden centre is a popular Christmas tradition, with two thirds (66%) stating they visit one every year during the festive period. Additionally, three in ten (31%) households buy their tree from their local garden centre, and almost half (48%) purchase decorations from it.

The Critic’s feedback will be used to help determine the UK’s ultimate Christmas garden centre. The team of 10 will be asked to rank the garden centres out of 10 across a number of categories, including the quality of Christmas displays and decorations, festive food and drink and accessibility.

Applicants will need to be available to visit up to 10 garden centres from the 13th December until the 24th of December. The role is open to any member of the public, as long as they are over the age of 18 years old, have a full UK driving license, a passion for gardening and love of Christmas.

Applications for the ‘Christmas Centre Critic’ can be submitted here before the 6th December: https://whatshed.co.uk/crackers-for-garden-centres-at-christmas-get-paid-to-visit-the-best-in-the-uk/ 

Members of the public can also nominate their local centre to be included in the national ranking on the same page. WhatShed will review all entries to ensure they meet the Christmas criteria before they appear on the map.

The successful candidate must be available to attend a different garden centre in their region at least twice a week, making the role perfect for students, retirees, those out of work or currently on leave from a full-time position. 

The job offer states that the selected candidates will have their travel expenses covered, however accommodation will not be covered if they decide to stay in certain locations. The critic’s will only be paid to spend two hours at each garden centre.

Applications close on the 6th December, and Whatshed.co.uk will be contacting successful candidates before the 9th, in order to begin their research on the 13th.

Started as a solution for a frustrated landscape gardener struggling to find the best buy; WhatShed.co.uk is now the largest independent guide for gardening and garden buildings in the UK. Offering advice on a range of topics including purchasing garden buildings, how to spot a shed from a cabin and how to preserve your plants, Whatshed is a one stop shop for any gardener, novice or expert alike.

Kate Fromings from Whatshed.co.uk, said:

“Garden Centres are growing in popularity, especially after being one of the only retailers allowed to  open throughout the COVID-19 lockdowns. With Christmas just around the corner and our research revealing that visiting a garden centre is a much-loved household tradition in the UK, we wanted to put together our very own list of the top garden centres to visit not just this Christmas, but following Christmases too. 

“We know this will be an exciting opportunity for many people and can’t wait to review all the applications. If you have a passion for gardening and love all things festive we urge you to apply - Good luck!”

Every week GTN receives and analyses epos data from a number of UK garden centres to produce the GTN Bestsellers charts and weekly bestsellers sales tips.

The full charts which provide useful insight into product sales peaks, new trends and new link sales opportunities are published in the weekly GTN Xtra newsletter.

As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2018 as well as 2019 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period.

Access is by subscription only.  For £145.00 per year you and your team can have access to the most up-to-date gardening sales analysis that has already helped many UK garden centres increase their sales.  To subscribe call 07973 504214, e-mail karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

Highlights of the GTN Garden Products Bestsellers chart for last week are here

Highlights of the GTN Growing Media Bestsellers chart for last week are here

Highlights of the GTN Christmas Bestsellers chart for last week are here

Highlights of the GTN Veg-2-Gro Bestsellers chart for last week are here

Highlights of the GTN Wild Birdcare and Wildlife Bestsellers chart for last week are here

WARNING the GTN Bestsellers Charts seriously improve the business of our subscribers.  Invest 15 minutes each week in improving your sales using the GTN Bestsellers charts and your turnover and customer satisfaction will improve too.

Get the GTN Bestsellers charts in full every week in the GTN Bestsellers newsletters for only £145.00.

GTN Bestsellers is the only industry source of weekly garden centre sales information, collating Epos data from centres with an aggregate turnover in excess of £100m.

Use the weekly Garden Products and Growing Media Top 50 sales volumes charts to plan your hotspot and other promotions and ensure you have the right products in stock to satisfy the needs of your customers.

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