In This Issue
It’s a sell out!
Record sales on top of record sales in Scotland
It’s like Christmas, only bigger!
Fire at Millbrook Gravesend destroys compost and furniture
The biggest week for Growing Media sales, ever!
Thank you for bringing a little floral cheer on #FloralFriday!
Dobbies sign up on new site that will be the biggest Dobbies in the South West
Bents dedicates more resource to popular Food Box service
Jump starting the gardening industry
Festives' trade ordering website sees significant growth in orders
2020 RHS Chelsea Garden Product of the Year Announced
Working together to meet the uk’s unprecedented demand for Growing Media
Innovative ideas for making outdoor dining safe
spoga+gafa 2020: Trends and new products for the outdoor season
2020 is one for the record books, says LifestyleGarden®
Fourfold sales increase for new Greenworks battery-powered mower
A speedy solution for queuing in comfort
Adapting sanitisation needs is key to garden centres staying open, says Cleaner Retail
Firewood sales have increased by over 320%
Gardenex launches website information source exclusively for member companies
Plant Area General Assistant
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra
All seasons, all reasons with new Multi-Tool Attachments
New record set for Garden Product sales
Trevor Wellington 29/4/47 – 14/5/20
Baker & Taylor ready to support your needs at short notice
Plants up by 35%
Four Oaks Trade Show 2020 Cancelled
Record Veg sales beat pre-lockdown peak
Smiemans to build huge leisure centre for Plantorama
HTA Launches New App
The best of last week's
Garden Centre sales reach record levels 2 weeks after re-opening
"Open For Business: Lessons Learned from Lockdown and The First Week of Trading". Watch the webinar replay now
Covid-19 Safe - Barton Grange Style
Post-Lockdown trading re-starts at 48% down year to date
GrowNation stores take 40% of sales outside business hours. Online garden sales booming.
Garden Centre Photo Tours
Haskins Snowhill re-opens after £15m re-vamp
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week
Buy your subscription to GTN Bestsellers
Catering Design Group's ten top tips for reopening your catering facilities safely
Situations Vacant
Plant Area General Assistant
£18k - £20k, Bristol
 
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It’s a sell out!

As news filters through about plant centres getting back to year on year sales and some centres that changed hands last year actually being up year to date now, GTN Xtra has been hearing from garden centres that they are selling out of some lines, especially BBQ’s Charcoal and Gas as lockdown relaxations add fuel to spending at garden centres...

 

“We’ve sold out of BBQ’s, we’ve run out of charcoal today (Monday) and we can’t get any more gas for 2 weeks."

"Last week we were asked not to sell any new gas bottle contracts. You can imagine how that went down when trying to sell gas BBQs!  Are other brands as bad?”

“Turf has been selling especially well despite the dry weather."

“Due to amazing amount of hardwork from the teams across the business we have had a very encouraging month. Sales have certainly been in excess of anything we hoped for."

 


As news filters through about plant centres getting back to year on year sales and some centres that changed hands last year actually being up year to date now, GTN Xtra has been hearing from garden centres that they are selling out of some lines, especially BBQ’s Charcoal and Gas as lockdown relaxations add fuel to spending at garden centres.

 

At Altons Garden Centre in Essex, Derek Bunker told GTN Xtra: “Every day is the same.  The biggest nightmare is getting stock.  We’re running at half capacity with only 100 cars being allowed to park and our May sales will not be far behind where we would have been ina “normal” year.

“We’ve sold out of BBQ’s, we’ve run out of charcoal today (Monday) and we can’t get any more gas for 2 weeks.

Jay Bunker, who runs the BBQ department at Altons added: “So far we’ve sold 911 BBQ’s this year compared with 1171 in the whole year for 2019. All of our fire pits and pizza ovens have sold too.  I’m working really hard to find more stock as we’ve got loads of customers on waiting lists.  All of the social media activity during lockdown (see Altons BBQ YouTube and Instagram channels) meant we kept selling high numbers while the centre was closed and since re-opening it’s gone bonkers.”

 

When it comes to garden care products Derek said it was getting harder to find stock.  “Some pest control products and some key plant foods appear to be in very short supply.  I understand the issue with the lack of John Innes compost is that the manufacturers are running out of grit.”

“Some suppliers are being brilliant at getting stock through to us and they will be the big beneficiaries as we can keep on selling if there are products on the shelves.

Back in March, Derek predicted that if we could get back selling May we could make up a lot of lost ground and that the season would run for longer than usual.  “We’ve just got to find a way of making the most of the next 2 months of this, both suppliers and retailers.”

 

In Northern Ireland, Alan Mercer at Hillmount said: “The demand for Garden Furniture & BBQ’s was so high that we shut our website down on Wed.  We were selling 25 BBQ’s and struggled to keep up with online & in store orders. 

“We have a complex waiting list for current garden furniture orders and have asked people to simply make us a wish list of what they like allowing us to contact them when we know stock is available again.  Our 3 x March Kettler garden furniture containers will arrive next week so that should help us fulfill orders and give us a better in store display.

“We purposely carry 120 gas bottles & we have just run out on Tuesday.  We have stockpiled Weber charcoal & briquettes.  At one point we had 22 pallets of charcoal/briquettes.”

 

At Coolings Green & Pleasant, Paul Cooling reports: “Whilst we have increased sales of garden furniture nicely over May 2019, the sales of Weber Barbeques have more than doubled and are back to where they were in 2018.  Frustratingly we are now waiting on supplies of charcoal along with many other products that our customers are asking for.

“I don't know what it is about Calor gas that every Summer the depot runs out of stock.  I first got involved in this side of the business 6 years ago and I thought that maybe we were doing something wrong, but now I have come to expect a new excuse each season.  Last week we were asked not to sell any new gas bottle contracts. You can imagine how that went down when trying to sell gas BBQs!  Are other brands as bad?”

 

Sam Bosworth at Bosworths near Kettering said: “What a couple of weeks!  Our Online sales really helped during lockdown, with our regular local customers, who would never normally buy Gardening products on the internet, using us for Gardening Products initially, then Furniture. 

“We shipped very little beyond a 25 mile radius of the Garden Centres, so it was our 'normal' customers rather than us tapping into the overall online market. 

“When we opened plants, and compost have been very strong, with Compost being the new 'loo roll'. 

“Furniture was quiet initially for us during lockdown, but in the last three weeks it has taken off dramatically with some excellent sales across all price points. 

“We do not have room for BBQ's, so little to offer there, but the demand for Patio Gas has been massive, with Calor being useless at supplying.  They will not allow new issues, nor give us any extra stock, and take ages to deliver.  BP Gas light have been better, but it is not so widely used. 

“Garden Sundries including Pots, Tools and Watering have also been strong.  But it is Plants and compost that have really driven our business and put significant cash in the tills on a daily basis.

 

Bosworths also have a small centre at Elton near Peterborough where daily sales have been higher with just the Garden Centre this year than they were last year with both catering and Garden Centre open.  “Again, Plants, Compost and Pots have been great.  It is a lot older clientele in that area, so numbers have been down, but spend up significantly,” added Sam.

“We are really struggling to know where to go with Catering, it was around 45% of sales at Elton, so a big part of the business, but switching it back on immediately puts overheads back up to where they were and with reduced numbers and a reduced spend.  I cannot see ATV increasing by so much in the Cafe like it has in the Garden Centre. It really does not make sense to open without a lot of thought and cost control.

“It all seems very calm at Elton, no queues, no fuss, and much more relaxed.  But we are doing all deliveries and online out of Burton Latimer, which is where all the stress, communication issues and workload come from!  Having said that, we are actively improving our online website daily, with more images and information, as we feel it is here to stay.  We also feel it is going to have a big part to play in Christmas sales, so we need to get it right now.”

 

Julian Winfield at Haskins told GTN Xtra: “Last week was record sales for many gardening categories and furniture and BBQ's.  On the gardening side availability has been difficult but our buying department orders over 90% of our stock centrally which has made it much easier than local ordering. 

“Fortunately, we pre-bought a higher percentage of our garden furniture compared with previous years and this has been massively helpful in maximising sales over the last few weeks.   It has been encouraging how much pent up demand is still in the system, but we realise that once gardening slows and the restaurants are still shut it will be a different picture.”

 

Gerald Ingram at Planters in the West Midlands said on Monday: “We currently have no compost; pots are in short supply but arriving as we speak.

“BBQ’s have sold very well and will be a record for us.  Weber have kept us well stocked with only a few minor out of stocks.

“Furniture has continued to sell well with more customers willing to pre book their furniture of lines that we are waiting for.

“We are getting regular stocks of gas but have been out of quite a few lines.

“Turf has been selling especially well despite the dry weather.

“Tools have been difficult but we are currently placing new orders.

“Wild bird food is another problem area with two suppliers missing deliveries last week.

 

“What a month of May Days!” said Boyd Douglas-Davies, Communications and PR Director for British Garden Centres.  “Due to amazing amount of hardwork from the teams across the business we have had a very encouraging month. Sales have certainly been in excess of anything we hoped for.

“No doubt the weather has played a major part but without the incredible support of our suppliers as well we couldn't have maintained the momentum.

“The first few days were all about plants and compost but as the month progressed we saw a wider range of goods being purchased. The last few days of the month saw a good mix of everything selling.”

 

Boyd also sent us the following verse which you might like to add to over the coming days:

“On the 12th day of May,

“Boris said... you can open tomorrow way,hay!!

“In the west they wanted to be best

“So Wales opened ahead of the rest!

“Sadly over the Northern border

“They didn't receive the same go, go order…

 

Please add your verses using the comments button below or send to trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk

 

(Eds note: The verse did have suitable emojis included but our GTN Xtra Newsletter software doesn’t like emojis, sorry if that loses effect Boyd.)

 

Record sales on top of record sales in Scotland

Garden Centres in Scotland opened last Friday and they have experienced similar re-opening experiences as centres in England and Wales...

 

"We are seeing the same pattern as experienced by garden centres throughout the rest of the UK: Record sales on top of record sales."

"Probably the hardest 10 weeks in my over 40 years of working but so glad to be doing it where so many businesses cannot.”

“We ran out of bedding on Saturday and had two days without any. I think we would have been 100% up if we'd had that."


Garden Centres in Scotland opened last Friday and they have experienced similar re-opening experiences as centres in England and Wales.

 

Colin Barrie at Caulders told GTN Xtra: “Yes, we are seeing the same pattern as experienced by garden centres throughout the rest of the UK: Record sales on top of record sales and that’s even without our restaurant sales figures. It’s completely unpredictable and unprecedented, however it is a very welcome recovery from such a difficult time.

“Stock levels are low in all departments, however our suppliers have been doing their very best and we appreciate the situation that they too are in.

“We have decent stock levels within our business at present, but I’m sure these will disappear pretty quickly. Who know’s what the rest of the summer will bring!”

 

John Stevenson at Torwood Garden Centre said: “We went with a soft opening on Thursday. It was busy. Friday was official opening, very busy. Saturday was very, very busy in fact best takings ever, and that includes previous best with cafe/full day trading and unrestricted areas.

“We are doing 6 days 10-3:30 for customers to allow us to water, re stock and importantly sort deliveries to shielding customers. Our staff situation is down 25% due to shielding/family care issues and means at the moment we can't open 7days.

“Sunday we were closed to customers although our road to the centre was a constant stream of cars looking for us to be open. Some staff were in watering and stocking.

“The weather has been exceptional, sunny and warm. Furniture sales were through the roof and now we have mostly run out especially relaxers and corner sets. Luckily, we had taken preseason delivery from Glencrest however another supplier had cancelled our order when we postponed the original delivery date. Glencrest have topped up but now run out.

“Plant sales are very good and although stock is in short supply our local bedding suppliers have kept us stocked. We kept good faith with them, taking stock right through lock down as we never closed completely doing deliveries then latterly also click and collect.

“Originally only family worked, then plant staff came back off furlough to help and then all garden centre staff available for the last couple of weeks and now some cafe staff are assisting with watering and customer help. Our staff have been superb!

“My wife and Jamie's wife have been in every day and we couldn't have done it without them. Probably the hardest 10 weeks in my over 40 years of working but so glad to be doing it where so many businesses cannot.”

 

Ken Cox at Glendoick Garden Centre reports: “Trade has been good with a high average transaction value. Plants, compost and furniture.

“There is a serious shortage of stock as the English and Welsh centres took it all when they opened.

“We ran out of bedding on Saturday and had two days without any. I think we would have been 100% up if we'd had that.

“Clothing, gift and foodhall are not showing many sales. It is all about gardening.

“Our centre is very adaptable to distancing and a one-way system and it all works very well.

“We were very well stocked up so we don't need much replenishing. Compost is running low but we have some more on order”

It’s like Christmas, only bigger!

The number of new lines selling through and being recorded in the GTN Bestsellers Epos database was on a par with the start of Christmas.  Gardeners are buying EVERYTHING they can to be enjoying their garden this summer...


The number of new lines selling through and being recorded in the GTN Bestsellers Epos database was on a par with the start of Christmas.  Gardeners are buying EVERYTHING they can to be enjoying their garden this summer.

 

As a result, despite social distancing limitations, total volume sales of products sold with a barcode were up 16% on the same week last year.  And that’s with some centres not having all departments open yet and a lot of plant sales not being able to be reported in GTN Bestsellers as they are having to go through tills on dump codes.

 

The GTN Index for the week was an all time record for Week 21 and only 3% behind the record high of the May Bank Holiday in 2018.

 

With massive new all time records being set in the GTN Growing Media, Garden Products and Veg 2 Gro charts it’s clear that there is a huge love for garden centres and gardening and that as a retail sector we are able to transact Christmas like volumes of sales even with social distancing measures in place. 

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year: week 21

•           Garden Products Top 50 – up 57%

•           Growing Media Top 50 – up 68%

•           Wild Bird Care Top 50 – up 54%

•           Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – up 66%

 

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week last year: week 21

•           All Plants with Barcode index – down 3%

•           All Items with Barcode index – up 16%

 

To see the full GTN Bestsellers Charts each week and use them to maximise your sales, buy a subscription for only £145.00 using this link.

Fire at Millbrook Gravesend destroys compost and furniture

"Luckily everyone was safe and the fire brigade put it out before it spread too far. We lost compost and garden furniture as well as the contents of our Christmas grotto..."


A fire at Millbrook Garden Centre Gravesend on Thursday evening last week damaged an outbuilding and two storage containers. No casualties were reported by Kent Fire Brigade who believe the cause to be accidental.

 

Tam Woodhouse, Managing Director at The Millbrook Garden Company told GTN Xtra: "Luckily everyone was safe and the fire brigade put it out before it spread too far. We lost compost and garden furniture as well as the contents of our Christmas grotto."

 

 
The biggest week for Growing Media sales, ever!

 

Sales of Growing Media during the second week after re-opening soared to the highest levels ever recorded by GTN Bestsellers and not by a small margin...


Sales of Growing Media during the second week after re-opening soared to the highest levels ever recorded by GTN Bestsellers and not by a small margin.  The volumes of the GTN Bestsellers Top 50 Growing Media lines were 47% higher than the previous week’s high set during the early May Bank Holiday in 2018.

 

With all that pent up demand coming through in sales there was a concern that sustainability issues might drop away, however Westland’s New Horizon All Plants Compost 60 litres has been the post lockdown bestseller, last week again selling 2 x the volume of the No 2 line.

  • Westland Hortus Multi Purpose 50 litres was an instant bestselling newcomer to the GTN Chart last week, debuting at No 2.
  • Evergreen Garden Care Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Pot & Basket Compost 40 litres was the highest chart climber, moving up 19 places to No 12.
  • Westland Alpine Planting Mix was also a new entry at No 49, the first time an Alpine specialist compost had featured in the GTN Top 50.

To see the full GTN Bestsellers Growing Media chart every week and use the information to maximise your sales, buy a year's subscription for only £145.00 using this link.

 
Thank you for bringing a little floral cheer on #FloralFriday!

Speaking on behalf of the charity, Trustee Boyd Douglas-Davies said: “We all know it’s a really challenging time for our industry so thank you so much for getting right behind this campaign.  As well as keeping the charity and industry very much in the hearts and minds of garden lovers, thanks to your support #FloralFriday has so far raised a phenomenal £1,000 for Greenfingers.  So, let’s keep it going - it’s only together that we can continue to make a difference to those very many children and families who sadly need to use hospices across the UK”...


Once again, many friends and supporters of Greenfingers Charity joined the fun of #FloralFriday by sharing their floral photos on social media to celebrate what is now becoming a regular feature in the calendar.  And last week (Friday 29th May), in recognition of National Children’s Gardening Week, many parents and grandparents proudly showed off photos of their littlies whilst Little Havens Children’s Hospice told us how their Greenfingers garden is supporting children in crisis. 

 

Speaking on behalf of the charity, Trustee Boyd Douglas-Davies said: “We all know it’s a really challenging time for our industry so thank you so much for getting right behind this campaign.  As well as keeping the charity and industry very much in the hearts and minds of garden lovers, thanks to your support #FloralFriday has so far raised a phenomenal £1,000 for Greenfingers.  So, let’s keep it going - it’s only together that we can continue to make a difference to those very many children and families who sadly need to use hospices across the UK”. 

 

To join the fun of #FloralFriday this Friday (5th June) you should know what to do by now…

  • Put on your favourite floral outfit and post a selfie or your favourite floral photo on social media
  • Use the hashtags #FloralFriday #HortIndustry
  • Tag @GreenfingersCharity  
  • If you can, make a donation to support the work of Greenfingers Charity by texting FLORALFRIDAY to 70085 to donate £5
  • Nominate a friend(s) to do the same

Why support #FloralFriday?

There is no doubt that the benefits of gardening and spending time outside in the fresh air are being felt more than ever as we continue to navigate through a world in lockdown.  Whilst this additional engagement with gardening can only be good for our industry, this message is also vitally important for Greenfingers Charity as it faces a challenging road ahead. 

 

To find out how the Greenfingers Charity Garden at Little Havens in Essex is being used to support children in crisis, click here

 

For more about the work of Greenfingers Charity and how you can help, visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk or contact Director of Fundraising and Communications Linda Petrons by emailing Linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk or calling 01494 674749. 

Dobbies sign up on new site that will be the biggest Dobbies in the South West

Dobbies Garden Centres have signed an agreement to lease with Cheltenham-based developer Robert Hitchins Ltd to open a 75,000 sq ft flagship garden centre.


Dobbies Garden Centres have signed an agreement to lease with Cheltenham-based developer Robert Hitchins Ltd to open a 75,000 sq ft flagship garden centre.

 

The new store, to be built at junction 9 of the M5 near Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire, will be the largest Dobbies in South West England.

 

The garden centre, on a greenfield site fronting the A46 trunk road, will feature the very best of Dobbies including an extensive plants and gardening department, food hall, cookshop, pet department, table service restaurant, soft play area for kids, its own 500-space car park and much more.

 

It will be on the same overall 180-acre site as the proposed 195,000 sq ft Designer Outlet Cotswolds which will feature some 90 retail units, restaurants and cafés.

 

Infrastructure works to open up the site for development are due to commence in Autumn 2020 with the garden centre and outlet village planned to open in Autumn 2022.

 

Detailed negotiations are under way with a number of high-quality retail brands that have been attracted by Designer Outlet Cotswolds’ strong location and communications links and its affluent and growing catchment.  The outlet village will feature aspirational brands across fashion, athleisure, footwear and lifestyle at up to 70% off RRP throughout the year along with quality restaurants and coffee shops.  Both the designer outlet and garden centre are part of a wider development by Robert Hitchins which will also include 850 homes, a school and a local centre adjacent to an existing M&S supermarket, Starbucks and BP petrol filling station.

 

Graeme Jenkins, Dobbies CEO, said: “The new garden centre will be our fourth largest in the UK and the jewel in the crown for the South West region. Not only do we want to delight our customers with our plants and gardening offer, but also feature a variety of other attractions and product ranges. With such an excellent location, right on the junction of a busy motorway, we look forward to welcoming local residents, passing motorists and visitors to the region.”

 

Simon Tothill, Property & Development Director of Robert Hitchins, said: “A Dobbies Garden Centre as the leisure anchor for Designer Outlet Cotswolds will offer a tremendous attraction for customers. Working closely with ROS Retail Outlet Shopping, one of the top outlet operators in Europe, we have managed to secure strong interest from major global brands which we hope to announce in the near future. We have put much thought into the architectural appeal of the scheme and the spectrum of choice for visitors when we open. Dobbies will be a significant addition to the development.”

 

The Designer Outlet Cotswolds will create one of the most accessible retail and leisure destinations in the UK. As well as the nearby M5 motorway, the site fronts the A46 trunk road which links to the M42. More than 21 million vehicles pass the site each year and the development is within walking distance of the Ashchurch-for-Tewkesbury railway station which serves the Bristol to Birmingham main line. Additionally, more than 9.8 million people live within a 90 minutes’ drive and the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) attracts over 23 million visitors annually.

 

When fully open, visitors to Dobbies will be drawn through the store entrance by the visual appeal and aroma of house plants. The store will feature a large food hall with on-site bakery, butchery and an eye-catching ambient grocery offer, including fresh fruit and vegetables. Additional attractions include a 500-seat table service restaurant with an extensive menu, cookshop building on an award-winning format, a pet department plus an extensive plant area with a wide range of plants for all seasons.

 

The agent acting for Robert Hitchins on the Dobbies deal was Gilbert Evans.

Bents dedicates more resource to popular Food Box service

With the re-opening of the main Centre, Bents Garden & Home has been able to welcome colleagues back to work and with this increased capacity it has also been able to dedicate more resource to its Food Boxes, helping to meet continuing demand for this popular service...


With the re-opening of the main Centre, Bents Garden & Home has been able to welcome colleagues back to work and with this increased capacity it has also been able to dedicate more resource to its Food Boxes, helping to meet continuing demand for this popular service.

 

A range of Food Boxes can be ordered both online and also over the phone, an option which is proving popular with those customers who don’t have access to the internet and prefer the personal interaction with Bents’ colleagues.  These can be ordered before 3pm for next day collection from store (between 10am – 3pm), where colleagues ensure minimum contact at a dedicated collection point outside the Food Hall.

 

Says Matthew Bent, Managing Director at Bents Garden & Home:  “Whilst the rules and guidelines over retail and shopping are starting to change and people are able to get out and about more, there are still many who are shielding and want to reduce contact, which is why we are continuing to dedicate time and commitment to our Food Boxes.  

 

“We have had some great feedback, especially the ability to place orders over the phone, and have used this to increase the variety of boxes, providing a wider variety of fresh produce as well as food store products and cleaning essentials.  And now we have more colleagues back with us, we can increase this service and meet continuing demand.”

 

 

Choices include: 

  • Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Box (£29.99) which includes 16 types of fruit and veg as well as fresh bread, eggs and milk
  • Everyday Essentials Salad Box (£14.99) 11 essential salad items including tomatoes, lettuce and cucumber
  • Everyday Essentials Box (£20.00) 9 items for the store cupboard including cereal, flour, pasta and tinned tomatoes
  • Honeywells Everyday Meat Box (£25.00) which includes 5 types of meat as well as Honeywell’s popular sausage rolls
  • Honeywells Mixed Steak Box (£45.00) large selection of meat steaks including beef burgers and flavoured stir fry.
  • Honeywells BBQ Box (£45.00) perfect for the warmer weather and includes sausages, burgers, ribs, steak and a variety of flavoured chicken

Bents has also launched an Essential Cleaning Box (£20.00) with a variety of cleaning products for the home as well as toilet rolls and laundry items.

 

With the Centre now open and following strict safety standards, Bents’ Food Hall continues to operate its early opening hours for NHS and emergency workers (8.00am – 8.30am, Monday to Friday), followed by shopping time for the elderly and vulnerable (8.30am – 10.00am, Monday to Wednesday).

Jump starting the gardening industry

The Millbrook Garden Company has published a blog on their website giving customers a clear picture as to why certain plants and products may be out of stock when they come to the garden centre, we thought it worth sharing with GTN Xtra readers...


The Millbrook Garden Company has published the following blog on their website giving customers a clear picture as to why certain plants and products may be out of stock when they come to the garden centre, we thought it worth sharing with GTN Xtra readers:

 

 

"Two weeks ago on the 13th May, garden centres across England were allowed to re-open. We had all eagerly awaited the Prime Ministers announcement on Sunday 10th May, as various press leaks had indicated that this would be the case, however, like much of the country we were left bemused and confused by the message and there was no confirmation that we were going to be allowed to open after all. Finally on Monday lunchtime, we had the green light that we were looking for and it was full steam ahead to open our three centres 36 hours later on Wednesday.

 

"After 8 weeks of closure and new guidelines on how we could operate safely and manage the centres and our teams adequately for the new world was a challenge. We put in place a one-way system, widened the aisles, set up a queuing system at the front doors, and put till screens in place at the tills. Alongside this we had to put in place new rules about how we can keep our teams and our customers safe. This included the difficult decision not to allow children under 12 into our centres, while social distancing measures are in place.

 

"On Wednesday morning the team awaited opening with trepidation, it was fair to say that we were all very nervous about how the day was going to go. Customers started queuing at 8am and at 9am we welcomed our first few customers into the Gravesend store. Overall it was a really good experience, the customers were happy and within a few hours the team were into the new way of working; it was going well. After 8 weeks of being closed it was wonderful to see smiling customers filling their trollies and stocking up for their gardens.

 

"So now we are 2 weeks into this new system of work, we have learnt a lot and have had to adapt each day. The vast majority of our customers have been understanding and supportive of the measures that we have had to put in place. Our teams are working so hard and under more pressure than ever to keep us stocked up and operating safely. Unfortunately not every customer has appreciated the challenging circumstances they are working under and there have been a minority who think it is OK to treat them with less than the respect that they deserve. Please show compassion when talking to our staff – we are all in this together and they are doing their best every day.

 

"Our next challenge has been getting stock – we have been much busier than we anticipated. There is a lot of demand and plants are literally flying off the shelves. The problem we have is that the growers were also closed for 7 weeks and the bedding and vegetable plants that we would be selling now weren’t sown 7 weeks ago so there is a nationwide shortage. Today we have bedding plants in stock but maybe not tomorrow! We are literally jump-starting an entire industry overnight – our supply chain is catching up and again we are doing our best to get plants, compost and gardening products, I do believe that by the end of this week we will be approaching something like normality with a good selection to choose from.

 

"It has been really hard to plan ahead for the business over the last few months but this morning we did have our first conversation about when and how we might re-open our catering. Whatever and whenever this may be, one thing is for certain we will not be able to operate as normal for some time to come. We also dared to mention the C word (yes Christmas), how will we set up Christmas to give more space for people to shop and will we be able to run all the events that we usually do?

 

"But enough about that, lets make the most of the rest of the Spring and Summer. How lucky we are with this weather and how wonderful to have a bit more time to enjoy our gardens and that we are now able to sell you what you need to make the most of them.

 

"We look forward to welcoming you back to Millbrook soon.

 

"Stay safe and happy gardening!"

Festives' trade ordering website sees significant growth in orders

Festive have been operating their trade ordering website for a number of years and are seeing a significant increase in the volume of orders received through their site each year due to the ease and convenience of being able to check stocks and add to orders 24 hours a day...


We are all familiar and comfortable with ordering online and most retailers see online as a significant part of their retail offer and the world of B2B trade sales are no different.

 

Festive have been operating their trade ordering website for a number of years and are seeing a significant increase in the volume of orders received through their site each year due to the ease and convenience of being able to check stocks and add to orders 24 hours a day.

 

 

The site features up to date stock information and has the option to amend and add to existing orders and is perfect for either new orders or in season top ups even out of normal working hours!

 

Festive National Sales Manager Rob Fox commented, 'Many of our customers are already registered with our recently improved and updated trade ordering site as they like the flexibility it allows them when placing their orders, we have seen significant growth in our online orders over the last two years and I can only see this continuing in 2020'

 

 

Registering for the site is easy, just contact their friendly Customer Service team on 01633 627 300 or email them at info@festive.co.uk for your unique log in details.

2020 RHS Chelsea Garden Product of the Year Announced

 

Vegebag announced as RHS Chelsea Garden Product of the Year


RHS Chelsea Garden Product of the Year 2020: Vegebag, by Vegepod UK

 

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has announced the winner of the prestigious RHS Chelsea Garden Product of the Year 2020.

 

The title was awarded to the Vegebag by Vegepod UK, a garden growing tool allowing gardeners of all abilities to produce fantastic crops in small spaces all year round.

 

Judged virtually by a team of experts including esteemed entrepreneur and Dragons’ Den investor, Deborah Meaden, the Vegebag’s enviro-mesh protective barrier keeps pests and animals at bay while still allowing the crops to get the air and water they need. Its size makes it ideal for city gardening, balconies, patios and larger spaces.

 

On selecting the winner, Chair Judge Chris Harrop said: “Reflecting the challenging times we are all living in and what seems to have become the ‘new normal’ the RHS Chelsea Garden Product of the Year judges met virtually to discuss an excellent shortlist of new products for 2020.

 

“The current lockdown has unleashed a wave of passion across the country for all things gardening and particularly for growing fruit and vegetables, and after detailed debate and inspired by the mood of the nation the judges are delighted to announce that the Vegebag by Vegepod is this year’s winner.”

 

The Vegebag was chosen from a shortlist of 11 finalists* as the competition, which launched in 2011, aims to recognise and celebrate the best new garden products.

 

RHS Chelsea Garden Product of the Year 2020 shortlist:

· The City Growhouse, by Access Garden Products, RRP £479 in plain aluminium £599 in Anthracite, www.garden-products.co.uk/ - A dedicated growing area in even the smallest garden. Ideal for city living.

 

· Meander 3, by Gaze Burvill, RRP £6,960, www.gazeburvill.com/ - Combining elegant sculptural curves with practicality and comfort, the ‘Meander 3’ is a delightful and novel three person conversation seat.

 

· Infinity Sheet by Green4Air, RRP £215, www.green4air.co.uk/ - CAD designed sheets designed to integrate and work with Green4Air’s 150mm pod spacing system both horizontally and vertically 128 x 55deg slots are cut into the black 10mm thick sheets using a highly specialised 5axis CNC router machine.

 

· Small Pot Set of 3, by Husk, RRP £9.99, www.madewithhusk.com - Pots made using agricultural waste which fertilize the soil when they biodegrade.

 

· Ooni Karu, by Ooni, RRP £249, www.ooni.com - a powerful, portable wood & charcoal-fired pizza oven offering portability with all the power of a larger wood-fired oven.

 

· Husqvarna 305, by Platts Horticulture, RRP £1099, www.plattshorticulture.co.uk/ - A robotic lawnmower which offers a low price point without compromising on performance. Can be controlled by an app on a smartphone.

 

· Steel Container/Pottery Knife, by Sneeboer Trading BV, RRP £69.95, www.sneeboer.com/en/ - An all sides sharpened, long, flat, flexible stainless steel container/pottery knife that comes with a red beech grip. Designed to help with re-potting plants in difficult containers.

 

· Stone King, by The Patio Black Spot Removal Company, RRP £29.99, www.patioblackspotremoval.com/ - Gently, restores the original beauty to natural stone sculpture, artificial stone figurines, bird baths, sundials and terracotta pots and urns in less than 90 minutes without pressure washing.

 

· Naked Garden Twine, by Twool, RRP £2.95, www.twool.co.uk/ - Garden twine made from locally sourced underused wool with a high tensile strength.

 

· Vegebag, by Vegepod UK, RRP £29.99, www.vegepod.co.uk/ - Made from a tough polyester base, the Vegebag helps gardeners of all abilities to produce fantastic crops in small spaces with protection from garden nasties, all year round.

 

· Potting Table, by Wilstone, RRP £245, www.wilstone.com - Made from Galvanised Steel and Recycled Teak for practical durability, this lightweight Potting Table has carry handles, two drawers, shelf and a uniquely designed extend-able worktop revealing a compost store.

 
Working together to meet the uk’s unprecedented demand for Growing Media

 

 

Mark Portman, Managing Director of UK & Ireland at Evergreen Garden Care, told GTN Xtra: "The demand for growing media is huge, it's astronomical, and we're doing everything we can. We are producing seven days a week. We're running our shifts on maximum capacity...


Mark Portman, Managing Director of UK & Ireland at Evergreen Garden Care, told GTN Xtra: "The demand for growing media is huge, it's astronomical, and we're doing everything we can. We are producing seven days a week. We're running our shifts on maximum capacity but we have to respect the new health and safety measures in place on social distancing. We will prioritize the safety of our teams as the number one priority, unapologetically.

 

"We have focused on producing six sku's in as high volumes as we can. And that's what we're supplying to our customers. We are saying no to new business opportunities just to continue to focus on getting as much product into the loyal customers, we've had for so many years.

 

"We've got about a three week lead time on orders and we're working hard to bring that forward and shorten it.

 

“We’ve seen the Coronavirus pandemic impacting the gardening industry severely since early March. With garden centres now able to reopen, we face a new challenge and that is the unprecedented consumer demand, for growing media in particular. There’s never been such a high demand, because the UK’s passion for gardening is skyrocketing.

 

"We are doing everything we can to support our customers in meeting this demand, while also ensuring the safety of our team as our priority. We’ve been implementing the new social distancing guidelines across all three of our manufacturing plants and introduced new shift patterns to ensure we are producing the maximum amount of product that we can – that’s both our growing media plants working seven days a week with multiple shifts in place.

 

"We’ve prioritised our growing media product range for the time being, to focus on a core number of products to help us meet our customer orders. Where we may not have full availability of our range, we are offering alternative products, whether that’s different pack sizes, formats, variants or brands. We have extended lead times in terms of delivery and are working to reduce them, our sales team are focused on keeping customers in the loop to ensure we’re working together through this challenging time.

 

"Our other categories including plant food, pest and disease control and weedkillers are all at normal production and we have good stock levels across these. We expect to see uplifts across these categories as the summer continues and the new gardening fans expand their knowledge and look for prevention and solutions for common issues around their gardens.

 

"We’re delighted to see the majority of customers now open again and seeing such a huge demand from shoppers, for growing media products in particular. We’ll continue working with our customers to support them in meeting this demand. It’s not going to be a straightforward journey as the nation adjusts to life post-lockdown, but we are looking to the future. We want to continue to service our customers as effectively as possible and support the gardening industry as a whole.”

Innovative ideas for making outdoor dining safe

Elite Greenhouses with toughened safety glass makes them an ideal option for outdoor dining in the UK whatever the weather...


Innovative ideas for making outdoor dining safe when restrictions are lifted have been highlighted with Dutch businesses in the Netherlands, and featured on the BBC:

 

https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-europe-52663568/coronavirus-amsterdam-trials-covid-safe-restaurant

 

Elite Greenhouses are a family business based in Bolton and have manufactured quality greenhouses in the UK since 1953.

 

They have a network of agents covering the UK and produce the widest range of greenhouses and colours available.

 

The provision of toughened safety glass in the greenhouses makes them an ideal option for outdoor dining in the UK whatever the weather.

 

For more details contact Elite Greenhouses on:

 

01204 791488

 

enquiries@elite-greenhouses.co.uk

 

www.elite-greenhouses.co.uk

spoga+gafa 2020: Trends and new products for the outdoor season

The garden as a sustainable retreat is the focus of the coming spoga+gafa. From 6 to 8 September 2020, the world’s largest garden trade fair will again showcase current trends and themed areas in the gardens sector. International exhibitors will present pioneering solutions from the world of the garden and offer a comprehensive overview of the new products...


The garden as a sustainable retreat is the focus of the coming spoga+gafa. From 6 to 8 September 2020, the world’s largest garden trade fair will again showcase current trends and themed areas in the gardens sector. International exhibitors will present pioneering solutions from the world of the garden and offer a comprehensive overview of the new products. With this year's focus "Sustainable Gardens", spoga+gafa is setting the scene for a more conscious lifestyle. The key theme is present across all segments. The diversity of offers ranges from outdoor furniture and design for garden equipment, to garden appliances, BBY and outdoor kitchens, through to decorative accessories for outdoor living – a glance at the themes of the outdoor season.

 

Salutary green: The garden as a place of retreat
The garden has always been of special significance as a place of relaxation and retreat. One's own patch of green plays a major role especially in times of uncertainty. Here the everyday routine appears to be unaffected. Garden work offers a distraction and helps people come to rest. Fresh air and plants promote health and regeneration. Which is why all the more today the garden serves as extended living space. The trend of the past years towards designing outdoor areas in a homely manner is thus ongoing and indeed increasing further. New outdoor furniture combine the comfort of the living room with extremely durable materials for outside. Lounge groups and upholstery can be combined to form convivial seating arrangements. Matching accessories such as cushions, carpets or lanterns provide a homely touch. And people, without their own garden, don't have to do without greenery either. Indoor gardening is becoming more and more popular especially among city dwellers. Plant pots, mini greenhouses and herb shelves add a dash of fresh green to the balcony or own four walls. This not only contributes towards creating a cosy ambience, but also towards self-sufficiency.

Mega trend sustainability: The green industry is getting greener


In addition to overcoming the Corona pandemic, climate protection takes top priority in shaping the future successfully. The coming spoga+gafa is thus placing the focus on the theme sustainable gardens. The green industry has not just been occupying itself with sustainable concepts since Fridays for Future - whether it be in the production, transport or use of products for the garden. The exhibitors of spoga+gafa have been providing resource-saving solutions for some time already. For example, the factor longevity plays a particular role for outdoor areas. For climate change reasons, the current outdoor furniture is also extremely weatherproof and thus has a long shelf life thanks to innovative materials. Wood from sustainably managed forests is frequently implemented for the production of furniture. Green alternatives offer reused or residual materials. Today, garden furniture, outdoor carpets or plant pots often contain plastic from the oceans and PET bottles. Recycled metals and used woods from fish boats are also implemented for new furniture items.

 

Flourishing landscapes: Gardening as naturally as possible
The awareness for environmental protection is also growing with regards to garden work. Back to nature is thus the motto for many outdoor areas. Natural gardening is high on trend. Instead of gravel deserts, blooming oases with plants and shrubs for bees and other insects. Potting soils and fertilisers made of regional raw materials ensure sustainable growth. Bee-friendly plant protection or bio-degradable planting aids and pots support the eco-friendly garden care. The "green" spark has also flown over to the BBQ section too. New coatings made of organic materials for grills and outdoor kitchens are free from toxic materials and are particularly durable. The disposable grill made of natural and bio-degradable materials such as bamboo and lava-stone is a clever idea. Even the barbecue charcoal is sustainable manufactured and originates from ecological projects for the landscape protection for instance.

 

Pure design joy: Simplicity rediscovered
Another trend is also characterised by the longing for proximity to nature. More conscious lifestyles are promoting the desire for authentic materials and simple design. In this way, designers are often letting themselves be inspired by organic shapes and colours from the world of nature for new garden furniture. Materials like wood, rattan or bamboo also establish a connection to the natural environment of the garden. The current collections also find added value in reduction. Here purist design stands for refrain and linearity. In their no-frill design, many new pieces of outdoor furniture and accessories take on a thoroughly minimalist appearance. Filigree frames for tables, chairs and garden loungers convey a new air of lightness. Reduced shapes for sofas and seating arrangements provide more clarity. Bright colours that enhance classic outdoor shades like grey and brown add a casual touch. Fireplaces in the form of braziers, outdoor fireplaces or pieces of cubic furniture ensure a genuine garden feeling. They not only provide natural light and warmth, but are also suitable as barbecues.

 

One for all: BBQ is becoming more versatile
In general, diversity is called for in the BBQ section – also in extremely confined spaces. Whereby one no longer has to decide between charcoal and gas. Hybrid grills can alternate between the two or be fuelled by both simultaneously and can be easily switched over. The preparation of food is also flexible and dependent on the accessories. Easily changeable attachments make it possible to cook, bake, grill, simmer or smoke food using one device. Ceramic grills are particularly highly appreciated for their versatility. In the meantime, the egg-shaped models in classic Japanese Kamado style are also available in king-size format. They are controlled via the ventilation, are equally suitable for baking bread as for indirect grilling and reach temperatures up to 800 degrees. Such extreme heat is a further focus of the 2020 barbecue season. Thanks to new technologies, the fast grilling of steaks is not only possible on a charcoal grill, but also using gas and electric barbecues. New OLED displays enable the precise regulation of the temperature here.

 

Diversified cooking enjoyment: Outdoor kitchens provide variety
The manufacturers are also accommodating the increasing desire for diversity. In this way, the equipment of the recent models is on a par with those of a small fitted kitchen. Individual cooking and preparation modules can be individually compiled following the modular principle. Instead of being limited down to gas or charcoal, different cooking appliances can be installed. And the possibilities are being continually extended. The classic stainless-steel look of outdoor kitchens is being enhanced today with cladding made of teak and textiles as well as worktops made of terrazzo. Elements like a fireplace or side furniture such as greenhouses and mobile bars for the decorative preparation of cocktails add a homely touch. Compact pizza and wood-fired ovens for home use enable culinary variety in the open-air kitchen.

 

Ergonomic added value: Appliances for healthy gardening
The theme health is not only high in trend at the moment due to the current situation. With a view towards the growing target group 50+, garden work is becoming simpler and safer. Surveys show that many hobby gardeners belong to the 70-and-over group. Hence garden appliances are becoming more user-friendly and easier to operate. Starting systems for lawnmowers facilitate the operation, whereas ultra-quiet robotic lawnmowers take care of the work completely. Ergonomics is no longer merely a theme for office work. In order to relieve the shoulders and joints, the construction of the handles of the new garden appliances is being improved. Furthermore, ergonomically-shaped handles ensure an optimal leverage effect. The weight is also an important aspect for new garden appliances. Materials like aluminium or fibre glass facilitate the work. Several manufacturers are even going a step further and are offering classic garden tools to improve one's physical fitness. Furthermore, today fast charging batteries as well as sensors and apps for garden design, irrigation and garden care ensure added comfort.

 

Playful creativity: More personal design freedom
As part of the private environment, the garden is designed according to personal preferences. New and modular furniture series make manifold combinations possible. Configurable table systems and sofas can be adapted to suit different needs. Fresh colour ranges for furniture and sunshades satisfy the desire for individuality. Beyond this, different colours or sizes for a model can be combined, which lends the design a playful aspect. Plant pots and decorative items also expressly invite the users to mix and match: Current designs are aligned to match existing collections, present series are extended to include trend colours. Personalisable products such as plant pots allow creativity a free rein. Hence, in the scope of one's own needs, atmospheric outdoor areas with an extremely personal touch are created.

 

The coming spoga+gafa will show how the totally personal extension of one's home can be designed. Here, exhibitors from all over the globe will be presenting the complete spectrum of new products and trends - in a diversity that is unique worldwide. Hereby, the clearly structured sections garden living, garden creation & care, garden bbq and garden unique serve as orientation and offer a comprehensive overview. This year's spoga+gafa with its focus on "Sustainable Gardens" offers a promising outlook: of a conscious, more environmentally-friendly and healthy future.

 

Koelnmesse – Global Competence in Furniture, Interiors and Design: Koelnmesse is the world’s top trade fair organiser for the areas of furnishing, living and lifestyle. At the trade fair hub of Cologne, the leading international fair imm cologne as well as the trade fair formats of LivingKitchen, ORGATEC, spoga+gafa, interzum and Kind + Jugend rank among the internationally renowned and established industry meeting places. These fairs comprehensively represent the upholstered and case furniture segment, the kitchen industry, the office furniture sector and outdoor living as well as the innovations of the furniture supply industry. Over the last few years, Koelnmesse has specifically added international fairs in the most important fast-expanding markets to its portfolio. These include idd Shanghai, interzum bogotá in Bogotá, interzum guangzhou in Guangzhou and Pueri Expo in Sao Paulo. With ambista, the online portal for the interiors business, Koelnmesse offers direct access to products, contacts, expertise and events relevant to the industry all year round.

 

Further information is available at: www.global-competence.net/interiors/
Further information about ambista: www.ambista.com/

 

The next events:
spoga+gafa - The garden trade fair, Cologne 06.09. - 08.09.2020
Kind + Jugend - The Trade Show for Kids' First Years, Cologne 17.09. - 20.09.2020
ORGATEC - New Visions of Work, Cologne 27.10. - 31.10.2020

 

The spoga+gafa 2020 is open to trade visitors on 6 and 7 September from 09:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. and on 8 September from 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. Further information is available at www.spogagafa.com.

2020 is one for the record books, says LifestyleGarden®

2020 may have been a record-breaking start to the season, but 2021 is expected to look even brighter. With the LifestyleGarden® gaining more and more traction and the brand extending into close to 40 countries, many might expect them to take their foot off the gas. Not so. A new mega factory is on the way...


For many reasons 2020 will be well documented in history books. In recent months the Covid-19 pandemic has changed the world as we know it; our core values have shifted as our normal freedoms have been put on pause, the way we spend time in and interact with our homes and gardens has changed significantly, as has the way we do business. LifestyleGarden® - one of the UK’s leading outdoor furniture brands – is one company that has taken steps to change its operating systems to minimise the impact of the Corona lockdown; changes that have been so successful that the company is reporting that 2020 will, in fact, be the most successful year for the LifestyleGarden brand to-date!

 

LifestyleGarden® puts its success down to its forward planning. As news emerged from China regarding the Corona crisis, its parent company, ScanCom International, stepped up production levels at its Vietnam-based factories. Largely unaffected by the pandemic, Vietnam – unlike Chinese manufacturers – was able to bring forward production planning that was in place for 2021. This meant that the company was able to utilise its 2million sq. ft facility to store ranges as well as ensuring that plenty of stock would be heading to the UK.

 

With many containers about to land in the UK just at the time doors had to close, many of which were destined for quick turnaround in the UK warehousing, or were going direct to customers that found themselves in some cases unable to take in stock, the additional deliveries had to be distributed across four warehouses drafted in to assist exclusively with lockdown orders. What wasn’t expected was the unprecedented demand for product during lockdown from garden centres that were still offering a consumer delivery service. With no benchmark to compare to – worldwide pandemics aren’t a common occurrence thankfully - it was hard to foresee such high levels of orders during lockdown and with the re-opening of the stores, consequently the warehouses are being quickly stripped of stock. But forewarned is forearmed! The anticipation of a post-lockdown boom saw the company ship more of their stock held in Vietnam, with more stock arriving weekly from until the end of August, allowing for maximum availability.

 

Supporting its garden centre customers was of paramount importance for LifestyleGarden® throughout lockdown. Seeing centres close their doors was tough for all to watch, which is why the team vowed to do everything they could to ensure garden centre customers had everything they needed to continue trading via their online channels, by click & collect, and also once lockdown was lifted. This commitment meant LifestyleGarden® also rejected the advances of internet retailers who were interested in securing stock.

 

Paul Cohen, LifestyleGarden®’s Sales Director said: “During lockdown we were approached with offers from online retailers to take stock off our hands. I can see why many would have been tempted by this, but for us it was imperative that we maintained control of our brand and stock, which is why we worked in partnership with our garden centre customers to ensure that stock was available when it was needed most. We firmly believe that sticking to this business model was the right thing to do and will stand us, and our customers, in good stead for the coming season.”

 

Paul added: “None of what has been achieved would have been possible without our incredible teams both here and in Vietnam. In the UK, with our dedicated office team, keeping up with the workload from home, and our efficient warehouse team, operating with only skeleton staff to enable social distancing, we have been able to perform the (almost) impossible and we cannot thank the teams enough for their commitment. With orders still flooding in, it’s great to have a team we can rely on during the darkest of times and to be part of such a supportive ScanCom family.

 

“We’d also like to send our thanks to the garden centres for their ongoing custom and congratulate them for showcasing to the rest of the UK how retail can reopen safely, as well demonstrating ongoing resilience in the face of such a significant and scary unknown. The last few months have been incredibly hard but we’re so proud to be part of this industry.”

 

In addition to supporting its retail customers, LifestyleGarden® is also backing the ScanCom Corona Foundation, which has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic in Asia. To date, the foundation has helped a wide range of people within local communities to rebuild their lives following loss of income during the pandemic.

 

2020 may have been a record-breaking start to the season, but 2021 is expected to look even brighter. With the LifestyleGarden® gaining more and more traction, fast becoming a fan favourite, and the brand extending into close to 40 countries, many might expect them to take their foot off the gas. Not so. A new mega factory is on the way – find out more by viewing the latest development video - and the LifestyleGarden® brand is set to become even bigger as the result of some exciting expansion plans, details of which are currently under wraps.

 

If you want to find out more about LifestyleGarden® and the company’s market leading outdoor furniture collections, please visit www.lifestylegarden.com or follow the team on Facebook and Instagram.

Fourfold sales increase for new Greenworks battery-powered mower

Interchangeable batteries for garden equipment: a good idea in theory, but what if the batteries are too heavy?


Interchangeable batteries for garden equipment: a good idea in theory, but what if the batteries are too heavy?

 

When gardeners reported they were finding the 48v rechargeable batteries used to power domestic lawnmowers too heavy for their hand-held line-trimmers and hedge cutters and that the weight was significantly reducing manoeuvrability, engineers at Greenworks came up with the novel solution that has proved to be a major success story for 2020.

 

Instead of looking at the heavier, one-size-fits-all 48v battery, these engineers created the same power using two smaller and lighter 24v batteries – ideal for lawnmowers. – with just one needed to power the 24 v line trimmers and hedge cutters.

When the concept was launched as a £199 package at the start of the UK season, it immediately swept the board and sales increased fourfold in just six weeks. Additional production was rushed in from Greenworks’ Chinese headquarters and these are also flying off the shelves.

 

“Our 2 x 24v system has been phenomenally success,” says Mark Moseley, sales and marketing director for Greenworks UK. “Women and older people are increasingly using line-trimmers and hedge cutters and the smaller, lighter battery is a winner in all ways. Manoeuvrability is essential when hedge cutting or strimming under trees and hedges but the greater power of 48v is needed when mowing. This is the answer to both.”


Product information and prices:

New Greenworks 48v (2x24v) Cordless 36cm Lawnmower with 2 x 24v 2ah batteries & twin charger that retails at £199.99 – GWG2X24LM36K2X – suitable for lawns up to a tennis court in size

- 36cm (14”) cutting width

- 2 in 1: mulch or rear collect

- 5 cutting heights (25mm to 70mm)

- 50 litre collection

- single lever height adjust

- poly deck

- only 20.5kg (boxed)

- run time 40 mins per charge of both batteries / 1-hour recharge time or 80% in 35 mins

 

 

Greenworks products are manufactured and owned by Globe Tools in China, front-runners in a world that leaves fossil fuels and electric cords behind. Globe Tools is the world’s largest manufacturer of cordless garden products. Greenworks garden products are marketed exclusively in the UK by Swindon based Handy Distribution. In 2019 Greenworks achieved more sales in the US and Germany than any other cordless brand.

A speedy solution for queuing in comfort

Industry construction experts Fordingbridge have introduced their latest product designed specifically to aid the Garden Centre industry...


Industry construction experts Fordingbridge have introduced their latest product designed specifically to aid the Garden Centre industry.

 

 

Having consulted with customers and having heard the strains they are currently facing with regards to allowing for safe social distancing, the firm have developed a new product to provide a solution now, which can also be repurposed for future use. Their new walkway system provides a bright, weather protected area for your customers with no need for any groundworks. It is not only efficient and quick to install, but also flexible for the future.

 

Once its requirements as a walkway have passed, the 5m sections of the structure can be redeployed and permanently positioned elsewhere in the store. You may join them together for a covered plant area, you may use it as a trolley or cycle store; the choice is yours.

 

 

The walkway uses unique ‘Flowerpot Foundations”; designed specifically for quick, temporary installation with no need to reinstate any groundworks once removed. Covered in artificial grass, the top of the ‘Pot’ is left open to plant up with your latest plant stock, creating not only a warm welcome for shoppers, but also providing you a fantastic merchandising opportunity.

 

The 3m span of the roof  is covered by their industry-favourite Opal 60 fabric, so you can be assured the area will be bright and well protected, but with reduced UV for your customers comfort and safety. The customer facing gable end of the canopy can also be branded with your logo, to add further to the welcome.

 

Fordingbridge have designed the walkway in both steel and timber options and are currently taking orders for delivery.

 

https://www.fordingbridge.co.uk/canopies-and-walkways/walkways/instant-flexible-walkway/

 

 

Adapting sanitisation needs is key to garden centres staying open, says Cleaner Retail

 

Advice from Cleaner Retail – a new service designed to assist in creating a sanitised environment for safer shopping and a clean retail experience for the consumer...


Garden centres have led the way in getting UK retail back on track as the coronavirus pandemic lockdown is eased. Now that garden outlets have been open for two weeks, many have successfully adapted sanitisation and social distancing operations to allow safe trading to resume. It is this adaptability and confidence to ask for a helping hand that is ensuring garden retail not only stays open but is also viewed as a best practice benchmark for the wider retail picture.

 

One company that has been working tirelessly with its garden centre customers is Cleaner Retail, the new venture from leading plant pot supplier, Ivyline. Created in response to a need for a true one-stop-shop offering everything needed to reopen in line with government guidelines, Cleaner Retail has made it its mission to ensure that retailers have an informed and educated provision system, supported by a product offering that is continually expanded to meet the different needs identified by retailers as they move through a new normal.

 

Scott Thomas, founder of Cleaner Retail, said: “The reopening of garden centres was a magnificent achievement for all involved, but now we have a responsibility to stay open, and ensure that our staff and customers are protected. Customer feedback suggests that in any retail setting there will always be areas that have not been fully considered, or ‘pinch points’ where social distancing can be more of a challenge, and sanitisation methods just aren’t cutting it. As such, retailers are having to revise their processes in order to ensure total and absolute compliance with government guidelines.

 

“The need to revise and adapt is totally understandable and demonstrates a willingness to learn. But, for some, it does throw up more questions than answers. Which is where we come in. At Cleaner Retail we are able to work directly with retailers to help identify areas of concern and create a bespoke solution that meets their needs. This might be a sanitisation solution that minimises downtime, hand sanitisation stations that improve customer flow, or even improved signage to help reinforce the social distancing measures that are so important.”

 

The first choice for UK garden retailers

Since launch, Cleaner Retail has worked with a number of the leading garden centre chains, as well as with a range of independent stores across the country. From providing bespoke branded products such as hand wash and sanitisation stations, to signage and personalised clothing, each order has been individual and designed to provide solutions that work within each retail setting regardless of its size or design.

 

Hero product Ramsol® leading the way

Cleaner Retail’s hero product is the Ramsol® Water-based Sanitisation Disinfectant Spray. The need to disinfect trolley and basket handles and areas of high footfall has been well documented. However, many retailers believed that appointing a member of staff armed with a hand spray bottle and disposable cloth would be enough. But with queues snaking across car parks it became apparent that this was not a time or cost-efficient way of doing things.

 

With Ramsol® Water-based Sanitisation Disinfectant Spray it is possible to fully disinfect trollies, handles, product displays, offices, doors and everything in between within seconds thanks to its revolutionary mist spray designed to sanitise and disinfect difficult to reach and intricate areas with full surface coverage.

 

The ingredients within this product deal rapidly and effectively with an extensive list of bacteria, viruses, fungi and moulds. The speed of application and effectiveness of Ramsol®’s Disinfectant enables retailers to increase the speed of service, improve the customer experience and minimise downtime. The product is also suitable for hard and soft areas including food areas, office spaces and around the plant area.

 

Ramsol® Water-based Sanitisation Disinfectant Spray is available in both 22 litre and 500ml containers, priced at £229 + VAT and £89.98 + VAT for 12 aerosol cans. The product is also supported with same day despatch.

 

The Cleaner Retail offering

In addition to sanitisation sprays Cleaner Retail also offers:

  • Portable hand washing stations
  • Portable hand sanitisation stations
  • Social distancing signage
  • Floor stickers
  • PPE including reusable antimicrobial two-ply cotton facemasks
  • Protective screening

 

Many products are supported by same day despatch. Where possible, Cleaner Retail has also proudly sourced product from UK manufacturers, helping to support UK manufacturing and also providing customers with peace of mind regarding availability, lead times and quality.

 

Cleaner Retail’s Sanitisation Top Tips

  • Minimise downtime - Utilise a sanitisation solution that can be applied quickly and also dries quickly to minimise downtime, meaning that staff can cover much greater areas of the store quickly and efficiently.
  • One-size-fits-all - Use a ‘one-size-fits-all’ sanitisation spray that can be used both front and back of house, including plant areas, soft surfaces and is food-safe.
  • Increase customer flow – Hand sanitisation or hand washing stations need to be positioned within areas of high footfall. Quick pump action means customer flow can continue uninterrupted to avoid unnecessary grouping of customers.

To find out more about Cleaner Retail, or to place your order please visit www.cleanerretail.com. Alternatively call 024 7633 9189, email info@cleanerretail.com

Firewood sales have increased by over 320%

Kindwood is reporting that since the beginning of lockdown, sales of its firewood products have increased by more than 320% as UK consumers look to make the most of their time in their homes and gardens during this period of uncertainty – a significant opportunity for retailers who want to optimise this increasingly popular product category...


Kindwood – the UK’s first true sustainable firewood company – is reporting that since the beginning of lockdown, sales of its firewood products have increased by more than 320% as UK consumers look to make the most of their time in their homes and gardens during this period of uncertainty – a significant opportunity for retailers who want to optimise this increasingly popular product category.

 

Kindwood’s founder, Taylor Gathercole, has attributed this increase in sales to the public’s need to create a sense of calm and comfort within their homes, especially during a time of significant turmoil. Taylor said: “Whilst in lockdown we can’t enjoy the same freedoms we normally would, as such our homes and gardens have become our sanctuary, providing a haven away from the scary world that the Covid-19 pandemic has created. Fire has been playing a vital role in many homes – either as a source of heat to extend the evenings, for barbeques, a relaxing backdrop to dinner, or home-schooling campouts, fire has been pivotal in creating a relaxing and comforting environment for many, and we expect to see this trend continue as staycations become the order of the day this summer.”

 

Firewood supported by a strong sustainable message

Not only is Kindwood providing easy access to firewood but it is doing so whilst also offering consumers a point of difference – firewood that is supported by a strong sustainable agenda, and it is this agenda which is creating a band of loyal Kindwood customers as they look to be consistently eco-friendly across all areas of their lives. From timber sourced from within 80 miles of Kindwood’s HQ, only using 100% renewable energy throughout its processes including an onsite biogas plant, and only utilising plastic-free recycled and recyclable packaging – including crates sourced from fruit and vegetable farms – Kindwood is a brand that has a story that appeals and offers a unique point of difference.

 

Taylor added: “We have been so pleased with the response to Kindwood and believe this engagement would translate into the retail environment. Until now, firewood has been a largely neglected product category, often seen as an add-on or commodity range located at entrances and exits of garden centres. However, we believe there is a real opportunity for retailers to maximise sales of this product. Co-locating alongside barbeques and firepits, or complementary outdoor leisure categories will drive sales and increase the average basket spend as consumers seek to ‘create the look’. Fire is at the very heart of a lifestyle and should be sold as such. We can work with retailers to create such displays, as well as offering drop ship services where retail floorspace is limited. We’re excited to start introducing Kindwood to a much wider audience and hope to boost our UK stockist list over the coming months.”

 

To find out more about Kindwood’s full product offering and how you can start stocking the full range please email hello@kindwood.co.uk or visit www.kindwood.co.uk

 

In a nutshell – Kindwood’s Kiln Dried Hardwood Logs

  • Kiln-dried to less than 20% moisture content
  • Dried using 100% captured waste heat from a biogas plant at our yard
  • Burns at a high temperature with a long and natural flame
  • Low in tar so better for your appliance
  • Ideal for wood burning stoves, multi-fuel stoves, pizza ovens or traditional open fires
  • Can be used in chimeneas to keep you warm outside on late summer nights
  • Packed in ex-fruit/veg crates from local farms & orchards
  • Carefully sourced from responsibly managed woodland in the UK

Website: https://kindwood.co.uk

Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/kindwooduk/

 
Gardenex launches website information source exclusively for member companies

Gardenex has launched a Members-Only Area on its website www.gardenex.com, containing business and export advice, information, market research and the latest business news and developments...


Gardenex has launched a Members-Only Area on its website www.gardenex.com, containing business and export advice, information, market research and the latest business news and developments.

 

The resource is available exclusively to member companies and among the useful contents within the Members-Only Area are a copy of the 2020 edition of the Federation’s A-Z Guide to Exporting, international retail e-bulletins, government advice and measures to support business, plus digital editions of Gardenex & PetQuip E-News. 

 

Members will also find details of exclusive discounts and special offers negotiated by Gardenex and how to access information from the Federation’s database of international buyers and distributors. The content is being expanded regularly and invaluable market snapshots will be added over the next few months.

 

Amanda Sizer Barrett, Director General of Gardenex, said: “This new service from Gardenex enables member companies to access a comprehensive range of useful information at the click of a button and signposts them to the vast range of business and export information that we offer within the annual subscription. 

 

“The new Members-Only resource complements the personal contact that our team offers UK firms and we are ready to help direct with any enquiry or advice via our Research and Events teams.”

 

Members visiting the Gardenex website will have access to: 

  • Gardenex A-Z Guide to Exporting 2019-20
  • Gardenex Database of International Trade Buyers
  • Gardenex Database of International Trade Shows
  • Member Services & Benefits bulletins
  • Brexit: Latest Government Advice & Measures
  • Covid-19: Latest Government Advice & Measures to Support Business
  • International Retail Update bulletins
  • Gardenex & PetQuip E-News
  • Associate Members
  • Discounts & Special Offers – training courses, market research, trade shows, other business services

 

Companies within Gardenex can access the Members-Only Area by visiting www.gardenex.com and clicking on the Members’ Log-In button at the top right hand corner of the home page. Enter your username or email address and password and click on the Submit button.

 

Gardenex offers impartial and confidential guidance on every aspect of exporting, on markets and types of customers to target round the world and can discuss how companies can make the most of the multiple benefits that are on offer exclusively to member firms.

 

Please contact Gardenex if you would like to benefit from membership of the association or require any further advice and assistance on: 

Email: info@gardenex.com

Website: www.gardenex.com

 
Plant Area General Assistant
£18k - £20k, Bristol

With a rich history spanning nearly 80 years, Almondsbury Garden Centre is Bristol’s largest independent garden centre. Based five minutes from Cribbs Causeway, we are passionate about plants and helping our customers to achieve their gardening goals, whether that’s an ambitious outdoor project or adding some luscious greenery to their indoor space.

 

We’re one of the best-stocked garden centres in the South West and are proud of our reputation for finding the perfect plant or flower for any gardening project.

We are now looking for a Plant Area General Assistant to join our dedicated team and assist with the sales of our vast plant range.

 

The Benefits

- Salary of £18,000 - £20,000 per annum DOE
- 28 days’ annual leave including Bank Holidays
- Staff discount scheme
- Subsidised social events
- Benefits package commensurate with a progressive company

 

If you have a real passion for plants of all kinds and experience of working in a garden centre or department, this is a fantastic opportunity to transform your enthusiasm into a flourishing career.

 

Joining a friendly team of experts, you will be provided with the ideal environment in which to develop and thrive.

 

We believe that plants bring joy, beauty and wellbeing to the world. If you share these values and are looking to join a forward-thinking company that will support your growth, we’d love to hear from you.

 

The Role

As a Plant Area General Assistant, you will deliver an exceptional service to customers and maximise plant sales.

 

You will use your outstanding knowledge to advise customers on plant care and encourage purchases.

 

About You

To join us as a Plant Area General Assistant, you will need:

 

- Experience of working in a garden centre or garden department within a larger retail store
- Have a passion and strong understanding of bedding plants and house plants
- Fantastic communication skills

 

Ideally, you will have a qualification in a horticultural-related subject, but this is not essential. Due to our location, a full and valid driving licence and access to your own vehicle would also be beneficial.

Other organisations may call this role Plant Area Assistant, Garden Department Assistant, Garden Centre Assistant, Retail Assistant, Plant Shop Assistant, or Plant Department Assistant.

 

Applications, please to: richard.truscott@almondsbury.co.uk

 
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra

with all the news direct to your e-mail inbox...





with all the news direct to your e-mail inbox.  The best news service every weekend and all the breaking news as it happens.

Subscribe for free using this link

 
All seasons, all reasons with new Multi-Tool Attachments

EGO adds three brand new attachments to its multi-tool...


EGO adds three brand new attachments to its multi-tool.


With the addition of new bristle brush and paddle broom attachments, EGO’s versatile multi-tool can now take on a new range of tasks, giving gardeners added help and support all year round.

 

Already benefiting from a range of attachments, the EGO Power+ Multi-tool can perform as a cultivator, pole saw and edging tool as well as a line or hedge trimmer. By extending this range to a new variety of tasks, these additions confirm the multi-tool as a must-have for gardeners everywhere.

 

With a 560mm cleaning swath and a tilling speed of 210-240rpm, the bristle brush (BBA2100) is ideal for quickly cleaning large areas such as patios, lawns and driveways, even with heavy debris and moss. Weighing in at just 5.0kg, it’s a lightweight solution for even the heaviest challenges. The paddle broom attachment (ARB2100, sold separately), can even handle standing water and snow, making the multi-tool a gardener’s friend for all seasons.

 

Featuring a durable and proven gearbox, all attachments are manufactured from robust materials for longer service life. They simply slot onto the multi-tool’s robust shaft and they’re ready for action!

 

Powered by pioneering 56V Arc lithium-ion technology battery, the EGO Power+ Multi-tool matches or surpasses the performance of petrol, but without the noise, vibration or pollution.

 

Available from January 2020, the bristle brush retails at £199, the bristle brush attachment (BBA2100) at £199.00, and the paddle broom (ARB2100) at £79.99.

 
New record set for Garden Product sales

Garden Product sales zoomed to a recorded weekly sales high in the second week after re-opening.  The GTN Bestsellers Garden Products Top 50 volume was up 65% on the first week and 17% higher than the previous record set during the early May Bank Holiday week of 2016...


Garden Product sales zoomed to a recorded weekly sales high in the second week after re-opening.  The GTN Bestsellers Garden Products Top 50 volume was up 65% on the first week and 17% higher than the previous record set during the early May Bank Holiday week of 2016.

 

Core gardening products, and pots, dominate the Top 50 but there is a sign that more decorative items are starting to be on customers shopping lists with two garden lighting lines re-entering the chart.

 

The GTN Chart also includes two watering lines but deep within the Epos data it’s clear that the dry weather is leading to a spike in all watering sales.

 

  • Evergreen Garden Care Levington Tomorite 1L + 30% Free, stays at No 1 as sales volumes double week on week.
  • Stewart Flower Pot Saucer 10 inch, Terracotta, is the highest chart climber, up 31 places to No 18.
  • Smart Garden 120cm Bamboo Canes, Bundles of 20, were the only new entry of the week, in at No 30.

See the full GTN Bestsellers Garden products Chart each week and use the information to maximise your sales with a full years subscription for only £145.00.  Use this link to buy your subscription today.

 

 
Trevor Wellington 29/4/47 – 14/5/20

The widely known and well-liked grower and nursery manager, Trevor Wellington, has sadly died aged 73...


The widely known and well-liked grower and nursery manager, Trevor Wellington, has sadly died aged 73.  

 

After college training, Trevor joined Highfield Nurseries in Gloucestershire in 1968 where he and his team grew the majority of the plants sold to customers and for Highfield’s award-winning show gardens at Chelsea Flower Show.  In those early years, most plants were sold by mail order, and Trevor headed up the 30-strong team at Highfield which despatched some 100 plant orders a day.  

 

By 1981 he was a Director of the business.  In 1987, when business owner Bonham Bazeley decided to retire, Trevor joined fellow Director Joan Greenway in a management buyout. 

 

Five years later, Highfield Garden World launched, and Trevor contributed much to the growth of the business until his retirement in 2010. 

 

Very much a family man, Trevor’s passions in addition to gardening included restoring MGB cars, playing golf and visiting the Isles of Scilly.

 
Baker & Taylor ready to support your needs at short notice

Baker & Taylor, the wholesaler of book ranges for garden centres, hopes the staff and their families of all their customers have remained safe in the midst of this crisis...


Baker & Taylor, the wholesaler of book ranges for garden centres, hopes the staff and their families of all their customers have remained safe in the midst of this crisis.

 

Annette Burgess, Managing Director, told GTN Xtra: "It feels like all businesses will have staff who have been through difficulties in respect of this virus. We hope the impact on you and your colleagues has been minimal. Like us, we are sure you have as many positive stories of members of staffs families being hero's as key workers as well as many voluntary contributions to the national cause from your own staff.

 

"We would like to provide you a trading update on the arrangements we have in place to support you and your business as it considers re-opening. We temporarily closed the Bicester facility when restrictions were increased on the 23rd March.

 

"Since then we have re-laid the facility and introduced new procedures to enable safe working conditions to be able to supply to the very few of our customers who were able to remain open and have operated with a small but perfectly formed team supported by a number of colleagues working from home. We have taken further steps to increase capacity in the safest of conditions and are delighted to be able to let you know that we are ready to support your needs at short notice.

 

"We appreciate that you will have many considerations having re-opened and that books and gift stationary will not be your highest priority. We just want to let you know we are here and are ready. Please contact me at your convenience and let me know your plans and we can design a package of supply that suits you.

 

"Thank you for the support you have given to B&T during these unpresented times.  We are coming back stronger and prepared for the new world of business ahead of us."

 

Annette.burgess@btol-uk.com

 
Barton Grange - May 2020 - SM 220520GTN 055.jpg
Plants up by 35%

Epos data of barcoded plant sales were up by 35% week on week but down 3% on last year.  If that’s a surprise to you it’s because there are still a lot of plant sales going through tills on dump codes...


Epos data of barcoded plant sales were up by 35% week on week but down 3% on last year.  If that’s a surprise to you it’s because there are still a lot of plant sales going through tills on dump codes as they’ve not been able to be supplied with barcodes and unfortunately GTN Bestsellers is unable to report on those.

 

  • Tomato sales grew by 85% week on week to move up to No 3 behind Petunias and Zonal Geraniums.
  • Pelargonium plants, not including Zonal geraniums, moved 31 places up the GTN Chart to No 16.
  • Bidens were the highest re-entry into the Top 50 at No 30.

See the GTN Bestsellers Plants Chart, the only weekly analysis of plant sales through garden centres, grouped by genus/type, and use the information to maximise your sales of both plants and associated garden products and growing media.  Buy a years subscription for only £145 using this link.

 

 
Four Oaks Trade Show 2020 Cancelled

Last week it was announced that the Four Oaks Trade Show for 2020, the 50th anniversary event, has been postponed due to the Coronavirus crisis...


Last week it was announced that the Four Oaks Trade Show for 2020, the 50th anniversary event, has been postponed due to the Coronavirus crisis.

 

Pat Coutts, Event Director, said: "It is with great regret that Four Oaks has taken the decision to cancel the 2020 Trade show on September 8 -9th, particularly as it would have been the 50th anniversary of the show.

 

"The risks to exhibitors and visitors would have been too great under the present circumstances, even with the most stringent controls. The deciding factor has been the 14 day quarantine period at UK airports. As 35% of exhibitors plus a high percentage of visitors come in from Europe, the event would not have been viable with this restriction in place and we could not have delivered the quality show that the industry has come to expect.

 

"Having spoken to a cross section of the 260 companies booked in to the show, the general feeling has been one of relief as many have staff furloughed until October. The 3 weekly government reviews do not guarantee a way forward so the decision had to be taken now for the sake of our loyal exhibitors who invest so much in the show.

 

"The dates of Four Oaks 2021 will be September 7-8th when we will be able to celebrate properly the 50th event."

 

 
Hillier Botley 040419_GTN084.jpg
Record Veg sales beat pre-lockdown peak

Deliveries of young veg plants got back into gear last week and the plants sold through in huge volumes.  It was a record week for Veg 2 Gro sales...


Deliveries of young veg plants got back into gear last week and the plants sold through in huge volumes.  It was a record week for Veg 2 Gro sales with sales up 66% on the same week last year and even higher than the peak we saw before lockdown.

 

Tomatoes are the Veg 2 Gro of choice with 25 lines in the GTN Top 50, however a cucumber line and a courgette line are the No 1 and 2 individual bestsellers.

 

  • Quantil Cucumber F1 8cm is the post re-opening Bestseller closely followed by Quantil Courgette 8cm.
  • Quantil Tomato Roma 8cm is the bestselling individual Tomato line at No 3.
  • Quantil Runner Bean White Emergo Strips are the highest chart climber shooting up 38 places to No 6.

See the full GTN Bestsellers Veg 2 Gro chart every other week (it alternates with Wild Bird Care) and use the information to maximise your sales.  Buy a one year subscription for only £145 using this link.

 
Smiemans to build huge leisure centre for Plantorama

While Smiemans Projecten is building the largest garden centre in Denmark, they once again received the order from Plantorama to build a second garden centre, this time in Hørsholm. This means that Denmark's largest chain grows to 13 branches in a short time...


While Smiemans Projecten is building the largest garden centre in Denmark, they once again received the order from Plantorama to build a second garden centre, this time in Hørsholm. This means that Denmark's largest chain grows to 13 branches in a short time.

 

Sustainable garden centre

Just as with Plantorama Tilst, the project has been given the ideal ‘knowledge-based building’ implementation by using the special roof construction and the adapted north-south orientation. For example, the asymmetrically roof slopes on the south side are used for PV panels and transparent PC panels on the north side are used for as much light transmission as possible. Maximum natural ventilation is achieved by means of the widened ridge ventilation. In addition to the installation of PV panels, the central building with the flat roof also has the optimal starting position for future installation of vegetation mats such as sedum. A green roof has many economic, ecological and social advantages. Wide rain gutters specially developed by Smiemans prevent water nuisance during extreme rainfall. The stored rainwater is used for the irrigation of plants. By also using LED lighting everywhere, Plantorama sends the right sustainable signal to an increasingly environmentally conscious world.

 

 

Experience

Visitors will not be bored for a moment while shopping at Plantorama. In addition to the extensive range of indoor and outdoor plants, flowers and tools, there is even a whole department for animals. While the children play in Playland, parents can enjoy something at the extensive restaurant. "We think it is important that customers can enjoy themselves and relax for a cup of coffee while they are with us. It should be part of the experience. We are specialists in creating atmosphere and experience," says Peter Vang Christensen, CEO of the Plantorama garden centre chain.

 

Growth

Plantorama was founded in 1987 by his father Søren Vang Christensen. In the last 33 years they have grown into the largest garden centre chain in Denmark. The construction of the new locations in Tilst and Hørsholm will bring them to a total of 13 locations. Smiemans Projecten is currently working on the construction of Tilst, with 12,000 m2 soon to be the largest garden centre in Denmark. In June they also start with the establishment/garden centre in Hørsholm. Both locations will open in the spring of 2021.

 
HTA Launches New App

The HTA has launched a new mobile App, to give horticulture businesses access to up-to-date industry information, resources, and training opportunities...


The HTA has launched a new mobile App, to give horticulture businesses access to up-to-date industry information, resources, and training opportunities.

 

The HTA App can be downloaded for free on any smart device. It has an extensive library of industry specific content and compliance e-learning courses, as well as a live newsfeed.

 

The App aims to help businesses keep up to date with all the latest information and news from the HTA and the ornamental horticulture sector. This includes actions the HTA are taking to promote and enhance the sector with Government decision-makers, information for interpreting Government guidance and legislation regarding the current pandemic, to ongoing key issues such as sustainability and plant health.

 

E-learning content is designed to enable managers to upskill staff and track their progress. Course topics include everything from biosecurity and plant passporting to digital marketing and visual merchandising. There is also a range of courses on health and safety and Covid-19.

 

The HTA created four e-learning bundles, designed to focus on related areas. ‘Principles of Horticulture’ includes courses such as ‘Using Garden Plant Protection Products Safely’, and ‘Water Conservation’ whilst ‘Compliance’ includes ‘Emergency First Aid Awareness’ and ‘Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)’. By purchasing these courses as a bundle, the rate will be discounted, making this eLearning a cost effective way of delivering induction training or upskilling staff. Anyone can download the HTA App, HTA members will receive preferential rates on training courses and access to additional content.

 

Anne Clark, Director of HR and Learning said: “We are thrilled to release the HTA App to help support our members and their businesses in these difficult times. We know how busy our members are; they rarely have time to sit in front of a computer for long. The App allows our members to access information conveniently, in one place, and provides a wealth of resources and training opportunities on the go.

 

“We hope, in time, the HTA App will become an invaluable tool, not just for our members, but also for the wider horticulture industry.”

 

The HTA App can be downloaded from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

 

Users who are registered on the HTA HUB will be able to login immediately.

 

All other users will need to register to access full content on the App.

 
The best of last week's

If you missed last week's GTN Xtra, below are the most-read stories...


 
Garden Centre sales reach record levels 2 weeks after re-opening

The second week of trading after the re-opening of garden centres has seen the GTN Bestsellers All Products index soar by 44% on the first week and reach an all time high for week 21...


The second week of trading after the re-opening of garden centres has seen the GTN Bestsellers All Products index soar by 44% on the first week and reach an all time high for week 21, only being beaten in the past 10 years by the early May Bank Holiday week of 2018.

 

We'll include the highlights of the GTN Bestsellers Epos Data analysis in the next edition of GTN Xtra at the weekend and subscribers to the GTN Bestsellers weekly newsletter will receive their copies of the first charts after lockdown of the Top 50 Bestselling lines across Garden Products, Growing Media, Plants, Veg 2 Gro and Wild Bird Care charts early next week.

 

To buy your subscription to GTN Bestsellers please use this link.

 
"Open For Business: Lessons Learned from Lockdown and The First Week of Trading". Watch the webinar replay now

Last week we joined Boyd Douglas-Davies, Mike Burks, Adam Wigglesworth and Will Blake for the "Open For Business: Lessons Learned from Lockdown and The First Week of Trading" webinar.  Watch the complete hour long webinar now and hear how Adam is now a web trading convert, how Will's team at St Peters greatly enjoyed being able to re-open, how Mike believes some of his operational changes will have long term benefits and Boyd thanks suppliers for their great efforts and says as an industry we should not be looking for discounts from growers...


Last week we joined Boyd Douglas-Davies, Mike Burks, Adam Wigglesworth and Will Blake for the "Open For Business: Lessons Learned from Lockdown and The First Week of Trading" webinar. 

 

Watch the complete hour long webinar now and hear how Adam is now a web trading convert, how Will's team at St Peters greatly enjoyed being able to re-open, how Mike believes some of his operational changes will have long term benefits and Boyd thanks suppliers for their great efforts and says as an industry we should not be looking for discounts from growers.

 

Here's the link to the webinar: https://app.livestorm.co/hyve-group/open-for-business-lessons-learned-from-lockdown-and-the-first-week-of-trading

 

Brought to you by Glee, part of the Hyve Group, and hosted by GTN's Trevor Pfeiffer we touched on what they have learned about their own businesses during this period, their hopes for the future, and an honest account of what the first week of trading has really been like.

 

March 23rd signified the start of an unprecedented stage of retail, and for the last seven weeks garden centre retail has faced truly unique challenges. Despite large discount retailers being able to open, garden centres were classed as non-core retail and forced to shut their doors during what could have been one of the best starts to Spring we have had in recent years.

 

Host: Trevor Pfeiffer, Director, Garden Trade News

Panel: Boyd J Douglas-Davies, Director, British Garden Centres & President of the HTA
Mike Burks, Managing Director, The Gardens Group & Chairman of the GCA
Adam Wigglesworth, Director, Aylett Nurseries
Will Blake, General Manager, St Peters Garden Centre


WATCH THE REPLAY HERE

 

 

 
Covid-19 Safe - Barton Grange Style

While some garden centres are managing their customer numbers by controlling the number of trolleys in at any one time Barton Grange are only allowing 100 cars at a time to park up, with other cars waiting in a queing system on the remainder of the sites car parking space.  GTN's North West corespondent Steve Myatt took the short trip up the M6 to bring you this GTN Xtra photo tour...


While some garden centres are managing their customer numbers by controlling the number of trolleys in at any one time Barton Grange are only allowing 100 cars at a time to park up, with other cars waiting in a queing system on the remainder of the sites car parking space.  GTN's North West correspondent Steve Myatt took the short trip up the M6 to bring you this GTN Xtra photo tour.

 

Steve's tour starts at the staff entrance: "The journey starts for the staff team as they enter the centre staff entrance. After I signed in I was asked to wear my visitor badge and sanitise my hands before entering. Safety signage was evident throughout the walk to the store itself, and additional hand sanitising was required just before entering the shop.

 

"For the customer the journey starts on entering the car park which is much reduced in size. Once this is full cars are directed to a queuing lane where they are asked to stay in their car until they find a parking space in the main car park.

 

"Signage in the car park is clear and reinforces safety by stating the sanitised trolleys are available. As the store become busier staff direct the customers to a queuing area highlighted by cones and ask them to remain safely distanced. Signs discouraging entry via the Farm Shop entrance help keep the flow in the right direction and staff are there to also discourage this.

 

"Clear signage asks customers to be aware of restrictions before entry, and staff are inside the entrance in marked safe zone asking customers to understand card payment only etc and monitor entrance numbers and distancing. Customers are asked to sanitise their hands prior to entry and they are given – again from a safe zone- a sanitised trolley for shopping. Reception is also a safe zone (as are all staff points) with clear 2m designation.

 

"Closure of internal joining doors encourages a natural one way trip through the centre.

 

"Merchandising is, as always, of a high standard within the centre, and the social distancing measures are repeated clearly throughout the centre. Main aisles have been widened to allow easier distancing.

 

"In the covered area and Planteria information points are clearly marked with social distancing measures in place.

 

"Directional signs to the tills are large and clear to encourage correct customer flow.

 

"As customers approach the tills signage directs them to the left where staff also are stationed to ensure 2m distance between shoppers.

 

"On approaching the tills the customers are asked to place their trolley by the till and then retreat to the marked square whilst the trolley is checked through the till. The staff stand back and ask the customer to pay via card. Once done the customer takes the trolley away, but if it is a large load and requires unloading then the products are placed on the table behind for customer collection after payment. Card machines are wiped after each transaction.

 

"On leaving a staff member in a safe zone controls the queue for safe distancing as some customers use the sanitiser again before leaving.

 

"The customer feedback has been very positive and they have been congratulated on their slick operation in the circumstances."

 
Post-Lockdown trading re-starts at 48% down year to date
GTN Bestsellers Analysis

The first set of Epos data for GTN Bestsellers after 7 weeks of lockdown showed total volume sales of barcoded products only 17% down on the same week last year despite two less days of trading and many less customers as a result of Social Distancing restrictions...


The first set of Epos data for GTN Bestsellers after 7 weeks of lockdown showed total volume sales of barcoded products only 17% down on the same week last year despite two less days of trading and many less customers as a result of Social Distancing restrictions.

 

Given the issues with non-barcoded plants and the two missing days that probably means sales were up by between 7% and 10% year on year.

 

That means our GTN Bestsellers All products index starts the Post-Lockdown trading period at -48%.  The data for the full week ending 24th May will give us all a better indicator of year on year comparisons and point to how much of the shortfall could be made up during the summer.

 

Within the complete GTN Bestsellers data there were notable omissions from food   and gift lines as customers concentrated their spending on plants and core gardening activity, plus some centres didn’t fully open all departments straight away and of course restaurants and coffee shops are closed, so that footfall and the resultant impulse purchasing is missing.

 

On a day by day basis we know many centres had record turnover, despite the restrictions and plants were the reported star performers.  Plants sold with barcodes on them were 26% down in volume compared top the same week last year.  However, many plants are being supplied direct from growers without barcoded labels due to time and social distancing restrictions at nurseries so the total volume of plants sold is likely to be considerably higher.  Watch this space for further detail when a “dump” code analysis is completed.

 

The volume of growing activity is up year on year as we come out of lockdown with the GTN Growing Media Top 50 sales index up by 22% on the same week last year.  And sustainability is still high on the gardening agenda with Westland’s New Horizon All Plant Compost 60 litres being the No 1 Bestselling Growing Media line for the week, outselling the second highest selling compost line by 2 to 1.

 

Garden products also got back off to a flying start, up by 10% on last year with Tomorite leading the way and pot feet sitting at No 2 and No 4 in the GTN chart.

 

Veg 2 Gro lines were down year on year by 36%, mainly due to restricted supply as far as we can tell.

 

Wild Bird Care sales volumes were up by 18% year on year.

 

While we do not currently produce separate charts for pot and garden lighting sales the total volumes change year on year is indicative of initial gardening activity and focus.  Compared to the same week last year pot sales volumes in the GTN Bestsellers Epos data were 54% higher while garden lighting sales were 20% lower.

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year: week 20

•           Garden Products Top 50 – up 10%

•           Growing Media Top 50 – up 22%

•           Wild Bird Care Top 50 – up 18%

•           Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – down 36%

 

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week last year: week 20

•           All Plants with Barcode index – down 26%

•           All Items index – down 17%

 

Next week will see the first new issue of GTN Bestsellers with full Top 50 Charts published including week on week and year on year movements.  To buy a subscription to the GTN Bestsellers weekly newsletter use this link

 
GrowNation stores take 40% of sales outside business hours. Online garden sales booming.
GTN Xtra promotion

As the rush to online continues in the garden retail sector, GrowNation (grownation.co.uk) reports that almost half of sales are made whilst garden centres are closed for the day...


As the rush to online continues in the garden retail sector, GrowNation (grownation.co.uk) reports that almost half of sales are made whilst garden centres are closed for the day.

 

The industry has been slower than other retail sectors to embrace selling online, so many have been left far behind by those with the capability already in place.

 

 

Mark Scott, Commercial Manager at Gordale Garden Centre said: Moving forward, being online is inevitable for the whole industry. With GrowNation’s help, we've been able to get our web-shop off the ground in record time.

 

"Sales of garden furniture were way beyond expectations from the day we went live. They’ve made the whole experience quick, easy and above all, profitable.”

 

Online sales have been booming, with online searches for plants and gardening products exploding.

 

According to Google UK, breakout search terms for the last 90 days include:

 

Steve Meleka, Managing Director or GrowNation said: “The growth of online selling has been super-charged by lockdown. Online retailers are experiencing unprecedented demand and garden centres should be mindful of this opportunity.

Our offer to garden centres is unique; no up-front costs, no contractual obligation and the fastest site build and implementation in the UK.

 

"A new web shop can be built within an hour, fully populated with products including detailed product information and images from our partner suppliers.

 

"With no investment cost and no previous history of selling online, garden centres can be taking orders 24 hours a day. This is the perfect opportunity to future-proof their businesses.”

 

For Silverwell’s Garden Centre in Arbroath, where Scotland’s lockdown is still in force, their GrowNation web shop has made it possible to continue trading.

 

Silverwell’s owner, Adam Meldrum said: “We’ve added over 1,500 products to our site now and are doing brisk business. We started by offering local deliveries, but now we’re selling more to customers who want to click and collect.

This is great for us, as it means we can fulfil a lot more orders than before. Once we’re back open, it will allow us to make up for any shortfall in shop sales because of social distancing.”

 

Since Silverwells began offering click and collect, 54% of customers have requested it. This is set to continue after re-opening as elderly and vulnerable customers seek to continue avoiding physical contact.

 

On 25th May, the Government announced that all non-essential retail will be allowed to open from June 15th. Some garden centre owners have expressed concern that this will impact the number of customers they'll see as a result. It’s still not completely clear whether recent increased custom was a result of pent-up demand or simply the novelty of having somewhere new to visit during lockdown.

 

All GrowNation websites are completely free to set up and include:

  • The ability to list as many (or as few) products as each retailer wants.
  • Secure online payments via credit/debit card.
  • Simple, commission based fee with no up-front cost and no lock-in period.
  • A unique web address with its own storefront and product range.
  • A simple to use retailer dashboard to manage products, orders and customers.
  • Payment processing fees included, no more to pay.

Garden centres can now apply for their own web shops - fully populated with detailed product information and images from suppliers including Farplants, Hozelock, Porters Fuchsias/Happy Plants, Bransford Webbs, Lovania, Taylors Bulbs, SBM Life Science (Phostrogen/Baby Bio), Plantworks (Empathy/Rootgrow/After Plant), Vegepod, Daro Cane, IKON, Fallen Fruits and Primus.

 

GrowNation charges no up-front fees, instead, the business model is completely commission based, with credit card transaction fees absorbed by the company as part of the service. Retailers can get more information or claim their free website at: grownation.co.uk.

 

The GrowNation (grownation.co.uk) platform is one of a series of marketplaces from ConnectNation Ltd, a company formed to help address some of the unique business challenges posed by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

ConnectNation was founded by a group of colleagues with specialisms in marketing (including in the horticulture sector), CRM platform design & integration, business analysis, social media management and ecommerce website development.

 

The company is currently working with the award-winning ecommerce platform and digital marketing company, Visualsoft. Their VSCommerce platform underpins the GrowNation service, making it possible to rapidly deploy websites to allow garden centres to start selling online quickly. See: www.visualsoft.co.uk

 
 
Haskins Snowhill re-opens after £15m re-vamp

Haskins Garden Centre in Snowhill, Crawley, has opened its doors to customers following a 12-month refurbishment costing £15m...


Read more and see GTN Xtras photo tour of the new centre

Haskins Garden Centre in Snowhill, Crawley, has opened its doors to customers following a 12-month refurbishment costing £15m.

 

The new centre boasts a retail space of 11,813 sq.m., including an outdoor plant area and 440-seat restaurant complete with a newly installed pizza oven. Additional space has also been created to accommodate 170 restaurant guests on an outdoor patio.

 

Up to 70 new jobs have been created to accommodate the centre's expansion. Car parking has increased to 346 spaces.  See GTN Xtra's photo tour of the new centre below.

 

Chief executive Julian Winfield said the Snowhill team worked tirelessly to ensure the centre was able to remain open for the majority of the project, with minimal disruption.

 

“We can't wait to receive our customers' feedback on our new and improved facilities,” he added. “Over the years, we have built a loyal customer following and we are proud to be able to give back to them in this way with our new expanded centre.”

 

Haskins acquired the Snowhill site in 2003, inheriting a number of ageing buildings.

 

Haskins also has centres in Ferndown in Dorset, West End in Southampton and Roundstone in West Sussex. The family business recently acquired Forest Lodge Garden Centre, Bird World and Garden Style in Farnham.

 

Pictured (left to right): Julian Winfield, Jamie Haskins, Ally Haskins (married to Jamie) and Warren Haskins, the group's chairman. 

 

The opening event was attended by the current GCA Chairman Mike Burks and three past Chairs; Warren Haskins, Sue Allen and Julian Winfield.

 

 

 
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week

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


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 01733 775700, e-mail karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

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

Highlights of the GTN Garden Plants Bestsellers chart for this week are here


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

 

Highlights of the GTN Wild Bird Care Products chart for this week are here

 

Highlights of the GTN Veg-2-Gro chart for this 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.

For further information contact karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or call 01733 775700.

Buy your subscription today and start receiving the GTN Bestsellers charts this week.

 
Catering Design Group's ten top tips for reopening your catering facilities safely
  1. Review restaurant layout and flows to promote social distancing
  2. Think about zoning and reorientation of areas – use screens for divisions and segregation in high risk areas
  3. Introduce protective screens around counters and till stations
  4. Minimise ‘touch points’ within high risk areas – introduce ‘hands-free’ operation wherever possible
  5. Increase Hygiene/sanitisation points – consider additional technology...

  1. Review restaurant layout and flows to promote social distancing
  2. Think about zoning and reorientation of areas – use screens for divisions and segregation in high risk areas
  3. Introduce protective screens around counters and till stations
  4. Minimise ‘touch points’ within high risk areas – introduce ‘hands-free’ operation wherever possible
  5. Increase Hygiene/sanitisation points – consider additional technology
  6. Use signage and removable graphics on walls, floors and furniture for information, controlling traffic and ensuring social distancing
  7. Consider alternative order/collection points and the use of technology throughout the restaurant
  8. Review kitchen flows and work stations to reduce the elevated risk of cross-contamination and ensure equipment is maintained
  9. Consider developing your outside spaces further
  10. Be creative! - think about how changes will impact the overall customer experience

Aware of the challenges faced by the foodservice sector due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Catering Design Group (CDG), has created ‘Designing Safe Spaces for Catering Environments’, an insight document highlighting the steps garden centres can take to help reopen their cafes and restaurants or to get them fully operational again with minimum risk to staff and customers.

 

The commercial kitchen and restaurant design company has considered all aspects of a catering operation, from design and operational requirements to the use of technology to help reduce risk of contamination.

Everything from the layout and flows to both front and back of house to materials and equipment is covered. 

 

Phil Howard, managing director of CDG said: “This is an incredibly tough time for garden centres, with a visit to the restaurant being a huge part of the overall experience, and we wanted to share our ideas and expertise with our clients and other operators to help with their plans to get their restaurants up and running again. This isn’t just about removing some tables and chairs to manage social distancing. Restaurant operators understand that there has to be a complex rethinking of an entire operation to make it a safe space for all, while still maintaining ambience and the dining experience.

 

“Mindful of the timescales involved and the cost to deliver these necessary changes, we see this as very much a collection of initial ideas to highlight and provoke further thought on the key areas where changes could be made. Clearly, these would need to be tailored to each individual garden centre.”

 

CDG has factored in considerations such as increased hygiene points, reviewing front and back of house layout and the flow of customers, minimising touch points, reviewing storage and waste capacity and introducing measures for social distancing compliance.

 

Mindful of how long the Covid-19 virus remains on different surfaces, the independent design company has also included advice on materials, with recommendations such as anti-bacterial wall cladding, anti-microbial upholstery and anti-bacterial touch screen technology.

 

 

“Design elements such as directional signage and graphics on walls and floors will be essential for social distancing compliance,” said Phil. “Operators will also have to consider touchless sanitisers and the availability of technology for contactless ordering, payment and collection. They will also need to think about zoning and the re-orientation of areas such as kitchen workstations to reduce the risk of cross contamination. For many garden centres there is a huge opportunity to develop their outside eating spaces to maximise the number of covers, whilst still implementing social distancing measures.

 

“We have scrutinised every aspect of a typical catering operation and hope that our thoughts will be of benefit to operators in these challenging times.”

 

‘Designing Safe Spaces for Catering Environments’ is available on request by emailing Steve Hutchings: steve.hutchings@cateringdesign.co.uk