In This Issue
Face Masks are back
57 garden centres vie for Christmas Greatness in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards
Millbrook Garden Centre in South Wales up for sale
Meadow View Stone search for area sales agents
Expanding Pughs seek Plant Department Manager
Fron Goch chooses WinRetail system
Sledges at the ready as weather turns wintry
Natalie runs #themostjumperful fundraiser again
Squire’s launches ‘Sustainability Champions’ programme
Booking now open for GCA Conference
Garden retailers recognised at greeting card awards
British Garden Centres brings cheer to children’s hospices
Panto characters visit garden centre's Christmas displays
New look for Food Hall at Squire’s in Wokingham
Do new business in 15 minutes with Curated Meetings
GTN October 2021 Issue available on-line
Plant Department Manager - South Wales
Area Sales Agents Required
Area Manager South England
Get your copy of GTN Xtra
The Real Soil Company appoints new Business Development Manager
Growing Media: continued growth over 2019
Trans-Continental Group appoints new MD
Christmas crosses over to Garden Products
New Head of Supply Chain for Imported Goods at AMES UK
Christmas gets personal again
HTA comments following EFRA committee hearing about tree planting strategy
Veg gifting drives sales
Get paid to test garden centres this Christmas
Coconut feeders on top
The best of last week's
Discount retailer's shelves fully stocked for Christmas
Woodlodge to showcase 700 lines at Harrogate fair
Meet the team helping companies grow, Cultiv8 Marketing
Arboretum named National Retailer of The Year
Elho takes top prize as GIMA Award winners announced
Picture Special of the glitzy GIMA Awards evening
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week
Buy your subscription to the GTN Bestsellers printed weekly newsletter
All the latest news from the world of pet products
Bruce’s scoops customer service award
UK pet boom presents sales opportunities
Interpet brings out new Fit & Wild Aquarium Fish Food
Situations Vacant
Plant Department Manager - South Wales
Full Time, £27,000-£30,000 (depending on experience)
 
Read more»
Area Sales Agents Required
North Yorkshire & North East; and Scotland
 
Read more»
Area Manager South England
Traeger Pellet Grills, LLC  South Ferriby, England
 
Read more»
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Email trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk or call the GTN News team on 07973 504214

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 
Face Masks are back
GTN Xtra Promotion

 

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

 


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

 

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

 

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

www.global-journey.com

57 garden centres vie for Christmas Greatness in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards

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

 

GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards are sponsored by:

 


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

 

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

 

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

 

 

Here's the list of the 57 nominated centres:

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

Millbrook Garden Centre in South Wales up for sale

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


 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 
Meadow View Stone search for area sales agents

Following a period of unprecedented growth Meadow View Stone are looking to appoint two territory sales agents for the following areas – North Yorkshire & North East, and Scotland.


 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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


Essential skills required are: 

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

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

Expanding Pughs seek Plant Department Manager

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


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

 

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

 

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


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

 

For full job description click here

 

Pugh's Staff Wellbeing Benefits:

 

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

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


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

Fron Goch chooses WinRetail system
GTN Xtra Promotion

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


 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Sledges at the ready as weather turns wintry
Exclusive GTN Bestsellers Garden Centre Epos data analysis

 

As weather forecasts have their first mentions of the possibility of snow this weekend, garden centres will be dusting down their stocks of sledges and rock salt just as GTN’s team of Greatest Christmas judges start their visits to the 57 garden centres nominated in this year’s much requested Greatest Christmas Awards.

 


 

 

As weather forecasts have their first mentions of the possibility of snow this weekend, garden centres will be dusting down their stocks of sledges and rock salt just as GTN’s team of Greatest Christmas judges start their visits to the 57 garden centres nominated in this year’s much requested Greatest Christmas Awards.

 

As GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards have always been about the great teams of people behind wonderful garden centre Christmas retailing we are really looking forward to meeting you all to hear about your passion, great new ideas, examples of teamwork and to see your creativity and retailing excellence.

 

As the judging visits may not be completed until December 16th, we’re asking teams to take some photos of displays and ideas as they are now in their pomp so they can pass them onto the judges when they call in. We’ll include as many of them as we can in the January issue of GTN.

 

The winners will then be announced on Monday 7th February at 5:00pm on The Stage at Spring Fair.  See you there!

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week in 2020: week 47.

  • Garden Products Top 50 – down 16%
  • Growing Media Top 50 – down 1%
  • Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – up 43%
  • Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – down 16%
  • Christmas Top 50 – down 18%

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week in 2020: week 47

  • All Plants with Barcode index – up 4%
  • All Items with Barcode index – up 2%

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

Natalie runs #themostjumperful fundraiser again

 

Natalie PorterSales and Marketing Manager at Porters Fuchsias, is running the #themostjumperful fundraiser campaign again. Boyd Douglas-Davies has agreed to take part and has chosen to fundraise for Greenfingers Charity...


 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

Squire’s launches ‘Sustainability Champions’ programme

Squire’s Garden Centres has launched its ‘Sustainability Champions’ programme. One or two team members from each of the 16 garden centres have volunteered to be ‘Sustainability Champion’ for their centre...


 

Squire’s Garden Centres has launched its ‘Sustainability Champions’ programme. One or two team members from each of the 16 garden centres have volunteered to be ‘Sustainability Champion’ for their centre.

 

They have been tasked with unlocking passion for sustainability at a local level. They will be a source of advice and inspiration to colleagues, and will help drive change from within by identifying workable solutions to help make Squire’s become a more sustainable business.

 

A Sustainability Champions launch event was held at Squire’s in Shepperton in November. As well as discussing key environmental issues and reviewing recent energy efficiency audits, the champions also benefited from talks and brainstorming sessions led by Planet Mark - an internationally recognised organisation that helps measure and reduce the carbon footprint of businesses.

 

Champions will create a Squire’s community committed to creating a better future for the business, their colleagues and their customers. They will be the lead environmental voices at local level, and will share insights and successes, monitoring progress on their journey.

 

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s, said: “We are all increasingly aware of the fragility of the earth and the need to protect the beautiful, unique planet we call home. We are working on a number of projects to help make Squire’s a more sustainable organisation, and one of these is our ‘Sustainability Champions’ programme.

 

"It’s very exciting to see the passion that our colleagues have for sustainability and their desire to make a difference. Through our energy audits we have already identified a number of zero to low-cost measures to help drive down our energy consumption.

 

"This is our starting measure to be a more sustainable business and our Champions will drive this programme forward at each of our garden centres, sharing knowledge and taking some ownership of local environmental impacts.”

 

Squire’s ‘Sustainability Champions’ are:

  • Deborah Nugent (Squire’s Badshot Lea)
  • Rupert Sleight (Squire’s Chertsey)
  • Anna Andrews (Squire’s Cobham)
  • Luke Maddams (Squire’s Crawley)
  • Sarah Chatterton (Squire’s Frensham)
  • Freddie Reader (Squire’s Hersham)
  • Lesley Hartt (Squire’s Long Ditton)
  • Lisa Hayer (Squire’s Milford)
  • Emily Jarvis (Squire’s Reigate)
  • Chloe Hamblen (Squire’s Shepperton)
  • Premila Jesani (Squire’s Stanmore)
  • Ben Thorne (Squire’s Twickenham)
  • Ian Bain and Emily Brown (Squire’s Washington)
  • Patrick Lawless (Squire’s West Horsley)
  • Olly Parker-Picken (Squire’s Woking)
  • Vanessa Crow (Squire’s Wokingham)
Booking now open for GCA Conference

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


 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

The GCA represents nearly 200 garden centres nationwide.

 

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

 

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

 

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

Garden retailers recognised at greeting card awards

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

 

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


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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 
British Garden Centres brings cheer to children’s hospices

British Garden Centre is donating 50p from every fresh-cut Christmas tree sale towards making Christmas a little better for children cared for at 52 hospices…


 

As the festive season is nearing, it is time to think about your Christmas Tree. All 58 British Garden Centres have a wide variety of freshly cut and potted Christmas trees. Over 26,000 cut Nordmann trees, the most popular tree, will have been lovingly grown in the British Isles and are now on sale.

 

This year British Garden Centres are delivering over £25,000 worth of bird care products to children’s hospices throughout the UK.  The carefully curated collection of items will bring the hospice gardens to life through the winter and beyond. By buying a tree from one of the British Garden Centre family you are supporting this wonderful gift as 50p from every fresh-cut Christmas tree sale goes towards making Christmas a little better for the life limited children cared for at the hospices. The present includes bird food and feeders, a bird table and even a bird bath. It will certainly make the birds go chirp, chirp, chirp! We will deliver to 52 Children's Hospice in the UK just before Christmas.

 

Amy Stubbs, who is part of the British Garden Centres family, said “Real Christmas Trees are a staple of Christmas at British Garden Centres and well-loved. Our wonderful Nordmann trees have been grown close to home within the British Isles". 

 

"I am delighted we are able to support and provide a wonderful present of bird care treats to fifty-two children’s hospice in the UK this year.  We feel that encouraging birds to visit the hospice gardens will bring so much pleasure to the children, their families, and carers. It will be a lovely feature in their gardens and outdoor spaces".

 

Two different premium trees will be sold with British Garden Centres this season. Nordmann and Fraser trees. Nordmann’s are typically wider than Frasers and perfect for a large open space, with glossy, dark green needles and soft foliage. Nordmann trees have a beautiful and crisp aroma, which will radiate through your home. The trees also have excellent needle retention and stunning shape, holding their structure longer. Frasers are slimmer and often taller, perfect for smaller spaces in homes, with flat shiny green needles, holding a more pyramid shape. 

 

For more information, please visit the website, www.britishgardencentres.com

Panto characters visit garden centre's Christmas displays

There was mayhem and madness at Perrywood Sudbury recently when panto characters Aladdin and Humphrey the Camel (played by James Hameed and Dale Superville) visited the store's Christmas displays, all of which are inspired by the theatre...


 

There was mayhem and madness at Perrywood Sudbury recently when panto characters Aladdin and Humphrey the Camel (played by James Hameed and Dale Superville) visited the store's Christmas displays, all of which are inspired by the theatre.

 

The panto characters chatted with the Perrywood team, tested out the ‘magic carpet’ photo booth at the Aladdin display and, much to everyone’s amusement, commandeered the tills!

 

You can view the video of Aladdin and Humphrey the Camel’s performance by clicking here.

 

As well as the Aladdin display, Perrywood's Christmas Shop is packed full of other show-stopping theatrical themes such as The Nutcracker, Little Shop of Horrors (featuring Audrey 2) and Romeo and Juliet. For those who have missed regular trips to the theatre,the Christmas Shop will transport you back to this magical world!

 

The Aladdin display also features a ‘magic carpet photo booth’ where customers of all ages are encouraged to send in photos to be in with a chance of winning one of five £20 Perrywood gift vouchers. 

 

View the video of the Christmas Shop by clicking here.

 

Alex Downes, Visual Merchandising Manage, said, “All the effort we have put into our displays has really paid off. We have had overwhelming feedback from our customers which makes it worthwhile. If you haven’t yet visited, we hope to see you soon!”

New look for Food Hall at Squire’s in Wokingham

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


Take a look inside the new Food Hall with our picture gallery

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Do new business in 15 minutes with Curated Meetings

Following its hugely successful beta trial at Autumn Fair in September, Curated Meetings is supercharging new business and scaling up for its official launch at Spring Fair onFebruary 7-8 2022 at NEC Birmingham, offering more space, more meetings, and more sectors...


 

Following its hugely successful beta trial at Autumn Fair in September, Curated Meetings is supercharging new business and scaling up for its official launch at Spring Fair onFebruary 7-8 2022 at NEC Birmingham, offering more space, more meetings, and more sectors.

 

Curated Meetings are short, pre-scheduled 1:1 meetings between vetted buyers and relevant brands based on mutual interest to drive new business opportunities together. Designed to offer a platform for bespoke, highly pertinent and time efficient business meetings between buyers and brands, Curated Meetings delivered over 300, 15-minute face-to-face meetings at Autumn Fair, generating thousands of pounds of business and an incredible return on time for participants.

 

For Spring Fair, the Curated Meetings team has doubled and the programme now includes brands across all sectors including home, gift, lifestyle, fashion, accessories and jewellery, such as JJ Textile​, By Molly & Izzie​, F & J Collection​, Sass & Belle​, Bachmann Europe​, Fawn & Thistle​, Blue Stem Group​, ECOYA​, Bamboo Tree Ltd​, Field Luxury Watches​, Tallon International​, Silver Jewellery Cavern​, Wellness by Manuel, Grabo International​, Corincraft Ltd.​, Dainty London​, Arc de Noa, Soake​, Giffi Creations​, AK Frames​, McAlister Textiles​, Global Vision Direct - Artisan Furniture, FYG, Letterbox Love, Ballard & Hill, and more.

 

Averaging £330k in buying power, leading retailers confirmed for Spring Fair include John Lewis, Bloom & Wild, Geek Retreat, Denby Retail, Houstons, Frankly, Forest Holidays, Nest, Hampshire Cultural Trust, Fy!, Hw2, Midcounties Coop Food, Nature’s Kids, Everything Outdoor, Lovey Dovey, Burton Blake, Clinton Cards, Applegreens, La Di Da – Interiors, The Rusty Fox, Museum Selection, Yorkshire Willow, Jackson’s Boutique Graden Centre, Bagstage, and White Chimnies Venue.

 

Buyers will supercharge their sourcing experience by pre-scheduling the new brands they want to meet with products they love, see the products up close and talk directly to business decision makers able to forge great deals – and enjoy a £250 travel expense subsidy, the Spring Fair halls filled to the brim with incredible brands, and inspiring speakers on the Inspiring Retail Stage. The meetings will take place in the private, luxurious Curated Meetings lounge for uninterrupted conversations and complimentary food and drink. 

 

GTN October 2021 Issue available on-line

In this Glee Review issue of GTN:

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

In this Glee Review issue of GTN:

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

 

 

 
Plant Department Manager - South Wales
Full Time, £27,000-£30,000 (depending on experience)

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


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


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

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


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

 
Area Sales Agents Required
North Yorkshire & North East; and Scotland

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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


Essential skills required are: 

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

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

 
Area Manager South England
Traeger Pellet Grills, LLC  South Ferriby, England

Area Manager South England

Traeger Pellet Grills, LLC  South Ferriby, England, United Kingdom
Apply directly by email, with your CV to Jo McDonald, Country Manager, UK & Ireland: jmcdonald@traeger.com 
 
 
Welcome to the Traegerhood: 
Our business is BBQ, and business tastes good. Traeger invented the wood pellet grill over 30 years ago, and we’ve been revolutionizing outdoor cooking ever since. We’re a team of disruptors, innovators, problem solvers, and food fanatics who are dedicated to bringing people together to create a more flavorful world. From our headquarters in Salt Lake City and beyond, we work tirelessly to provide a world-class experience to our customers, retailers, and especially our employees. If you’re a team player who’s dedicated to delivering top-quality results every day, then we want you to come cook with us!

What You'll Do:
Within Traeger UK and Ireland this role will be pivotal in reinforcing the great in roads the brand has made developing retailer partnerships in the South of England. As the face of the brand in the heartland of sales for BBQs within the UK, you will be an experienced sales leader to cultivate Traeger’s brand presence as the go to choice for both trade partners and consumers alike.

With responsibility for the development and on boarding of retailers in the territory of the South England you will assess current distribution and using your previous knowledge, experience and contacts develop a strategic plan to grow and strengthen the number of doors Traeger is represented in, whilst developing strong, trusting relationships with current stockists to create loyalty to the brand and NO1 for top-of-mind sales.

Weekend and event activities, either as coordinator or supporting participant will be critical during key times of the year.

How You'll Help Us Win:
  • Manage and develop sales channels to their fullest potential, ensuring that sales budgets are achieved, and exceeded.
  • Build and maintain a long-term business plan for the territory
  • Intrinsic in the development and execution of the business plan for the UK and Irish Markets
  • Support for Country Manager in the negotiation, execution, and administration of Key Accounts, developing relationships.
  • Create, rank and own target list of regional dealers for the South of England.
    • Rank on volume potential and influence on region.
    • Updated & reviewed monthly with the Country Manager.
  • Strive to identify customer needs and explore all opportunities to maximize sales from accounts.
  • Develop strong relationships with current partners to grow sales and loyalty to Traeger.
    • Administer in store training and certification programmes to create brand loyalty
    • Identify and implement events with key retail partners.
    • Implement key company directives and strategies to retailers and influencer partners.
    • Use tool kits, support, and relationships to incentivize dealers to drop competitor copy-cat pellets and grills.
    • Use tool kits to build out our in-store presence.
  • Attend and support key trade events within the UK, Ireland, and Europe.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:
  • Proven track record in related market and sales
  • Excellent sales and negotiation skills
  • Good business sense
  • Excellent communication and ‘people skills’
  • Initiative and enthusiasm
  • The ability to work calmly under pressure
  • Excellent organizational skills with emphasis on priorities and goal setting to achieve targets.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Inc. Word, Excel, PowerPoint
  • Strong presentation and communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Full/ Clean UK driving license

Why You Will Love to Work Here:
  • Be part of the most disruptive force in outdoor cooking
  • Join a true team working towards a common goal
  • Culture of risk-taking, innovation, & quality
  • Individual professional development programs & initiatives to help you grow professionally
  • Great discounts on all things Traeger
 
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The Real Soil Company appoints new Business Development Manager

Following the successful launch of The Real Soil Company and its benchmark-setting SuperSoil organic topsoil, the company has recently appointed James Romaine as the company’s first Business Development Manager...


Following the successful launch of The Real Soil Company and its benchmark-setting SuperSoil organic topsoil, the company has recently appointed James Romaine as the company’s first Business Development Manager.

 

Despite having only launched to the garden retail sector in early 2021, The Real Soil Company has carved out a niche for itself within this thriving retail space. The success of the brand lies in the supreme quality of its SuperSoil product, which has helped to plug a gap at the top end of the market, whilst also directly responding to consumer demand for more environmentally conscious products. The appointment of James will look to further develop this growth opportunity and will provide garden centres with a dedicated direct contact for their ongoing SuperSoil needs.

 

Talking about his new role James Romaine said: “I’m really excited and enthusiastic to be part of The Real Soil Company’s ongoing journey. It’s a strong brand with great potential, and more importantly, is eco-friendly which we know is of the utmost importance to both retailers and consumers. I’m looking forward to getting on the road to meet with new and existing customers, and to be able to demonstrate to them the SuperSoil difference.”

 

Before joining The Real Soil Company James accumulated over 30 years’ experience within the horticultural industry including previous roles within Vitax, VapoGro Substrates, and at The Real Soil Company’s parent company, Boughton Loam, as a sales representative.

 

The success of SuperSoil from The Real Soil Company is two-fold. Firstly, the organic topsoil - aimed at the premium garden centre customer - has been specially enhanced using ethically sourced, 100% traceable natural components to create a new chapter for topsoil quality and customer loyalty, plugging the gap at the higher end of the market where products have, until now, lacked real substance and quality.

 

SuperSoil’s natural components – which go above and beyond the BS3882 standard for compliance and reliability - are added to enrich and enhance the soil provide quicker plant establishment, better resilience against pests and disease, whilst also enabling edible crops to benefit from nutritional enhancement and a higher crop yield. Additionally, the enhanced soil also offers better water retention and release for optimum plant growth, whilst also providing a more balanced and workable material for gardeners.

 

Secondly, The Real Soil Company has specifically set out to create a standout brand; one that competes within a highly saturated marketplace. Featuring bright colours and hand drawn illustrations, SuperSoil’s packaging is informative, friendly and inspirational, helping to draw the consumers eye and assisting them in making better, more educated purchasing decisions at the point of sale.

 

To find out more about The Real Soil Company please visit www.therealsoilcompany.co.uk or email info@therealsoilcompany.co.uk.

 

The Real Soil Company’s new Business Development Manager, James Romaine can be contacted via james.romaine@therealsoilcompany.co.uk or by calling 07825 070579.

 
Growing Media: continued growth over 2019

Growth Technology Perlite is a GTN Growing Media Chart new entry this week, in at No 50...


Growth Technology Perlite is a GTN Growing Media Chart new entry this week, in at No 50...

 

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

Trans-Continental Group appoints new MD

Trans-Continental Group, the company behind the well know brands SnowTime and SunTime, has announced the appointment of Sara Murray as the group’s managing director...


Trans-Continental Group, the company behind the well know brands SnowTime and SunTime, has announced the appointment of Sara Murray as the group’s managing director.

 

Chairman Mike Withers welcomed the move, saying: “Sara is well known in the industry and has been with the company for 22 years, latterly in the role of Buying Director.

 

"I am delighted with this appointment and look forward to many years of continued success for the company with Sara at the helm."

 

Current MD Adam Gregory, is moving on to pastures new and Mike Withers paid tribute to him, thanking him for driving the company forward over several years and wishing him well for the future.

 

A new Sales Director has been appointed and an announcement will be made in due course.

 
Christmas crosses over to Garden Products

Vivid Arts Plant Pals Robin stays at No 1 in the Garden Products chart for the second week...


Vivid Arts Plant Pals Robin stays at No 1 in the Garden Products chart for the second week...

 

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
New Head of Supply Chain for Imported Goods at AMES UK

Steve Seal has recently been appointed to the newly created role of Head of Supply Chain for Imported Goods and will focus on bringing a strong, streamlined plan to all three businesses – Kelkay, La Hacienda and Apta. 


Steve Seal could not have chosen a more challenging time to embark on a move into the garden products category. The past 18 months have seen unprecedented demand and volatility in supply and availability for several well-documented reasons!

 

Steve has been appointed to the newly created role of Head of Supply Chain for Imported Goods and will focus on bringing a strong, streamlined plan to all three businesses – Kelkay, La Hacienda and Apta. 

 

He joins AMES UK with a host of relevant experience in managing peaks in demand, coupled with tricky supply chains. After several years in telecoms where he worked on sourcing handsets with impossibly short lead times, Steve led the team that launched SkyQ where he also developed his considerable demand planning skills. His experience puts him in a unique position to be able to support AMES UK’s ambitious sales growth and stock availability targets.

 

He explained “I know the garden industry is seeing shortages and lengthening lead times which is especially difficult for such a highly seasonal sector. That’s why my focus will be on creating a long-term plan that will help us smooth out the volatility and deliver improved availability and service levels for our customers.”

 

In the months before joining AMES UK, Steve took a few months away from the world of work to focus on home schooling for his two children. It proved to be unexpectedly challenging, “To be honest, I’m rather relieved to be back to supply chain planning – much more in my comfort zone that GCSE maths.”

 

Steve is working closely with demand planning and customer fulfilment teams and reports to Supply Chain Director, James Hoad. “Steve is already proving to be a huge asset to the team because he brings a sophisticated skill set and discipline to our supply chain function. Because he is new to the business and to our market, he brings a unique clarity to the planning and decision-making process.”

 
Christmas gets personal again

History & Heraldry Personalised Christmas Elf tops the GTN Christmas Chart again, leading the way in the overall Christmas sales volumes, and in the personlaised decorations sector...


History & Heraldry Personalised Christmas Elf tops the GTN Christmas Chart again, leading the way in the overall Christmas sales volumes, and in the personlaised decorations sector.

 

As we approach the Christmas peak, six of the GTN Top 10 are personalised lines.

 

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

HTA comments following EFRA committee hearing about tree planting strategy

The Horticultural Trades Association watched with interest as Defra Minister, Zac Goldsmith MP appeared before the House of Commons EFRA committee as part of their inquiry into the Government’s tree planting strategy...


The Horticultural Trades Association watched with interest as Defra Minister, Zac Goldsmith MP appeared before the House of Commons EFRA committee as part of their inquiry into the Government’s tree planting strategy. 

 

James Clark, HTA Director of Policy and Communications, said: 

“We need the Government to focus and provide confidence to the sector. I’m not sure yesterday’s session moved the debate on very much unfortunately.  

 

“We have three key asks of government – provide confidence for the sector by providing consistent long-term policy on funding for nurseries and for their amenity/local authority and woodland customers. Secondly, incentivise and encourage landowners to plant trees. Thirdly, include tree nurseries, as well the plant production industry, in the seasonal workers scheme for overseas workers. We know from HTA research that ornamental growers are c3k short (1,200 FTEs) of the labour they need. Allow those overseas workers on visas for edibles to be able to work on plant and tree production as well. Expanding the visa scheme by 3 months to 9 months will ensure tree production is included. 

 

“The HTA will continue to lobby for change in these three areas, pushing government to recognise that horticulture has a huge role to play in their ambitious targets for tree planting and carbon reduction; a role that should be recognised and properly supported.” 

 
Veg gifting drives sales

Taylors Herb Planter was the highest re-entry in the Veg-2-Gro chart, back in at No 4...


Taylors Herb Planter was the highest re-entry in the Veg-2-Gro chart, back in at No 4...

 

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

Get paid to test garden centres this Christmas

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


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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

             

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Kate Fromings from Whatshed.co.uk, said:

 

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

 

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

 
Coconut feeders on top

Tom Chambers Half Coconutty Mealworm Feeder was the highest chart re-entry last week.  Back in at No 10. Marriages Honeyfields Half Coconuts Feeder moves up one place to No 1 again.


Tom Chambers Half Coconutty Mealworm Feeder was the highest chart re-entry last week.  Back in at No 10.

 

Marriages Honeyfields Half Coconuts Feeder moves up one place to No 1 again.

 

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
The best of last week's

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


 
Discount retailer's shelves fully stocked for Christmas

Discount retail group QD, which owns Cherry Lane Garden Centres, is promising customers everything they need for a cracking Christmas this year. With shelves already brimming with decorations, lights, food and gifts, the retailer has been working ahead with suppliers for many months to ensure everything is available for the festive season...


 

Discount retail group QD, which owns Cherry Lane Garden Centres, is promising customers everything they need for a cracking Christmas this year. With shelves already brimming with decorations, lights, food and gifts, the retailer has been working ahead with suppliers for many months to ensure everything is available for the festive season.

 

Sourcing and securing supply of festive products this year for QD’s 48 outlets, which include 15 Cherry Lane Garden Centres and 28 QD – QualityDiscounts.com stores, has created some unprecedented challenges for the retailer, but its commitment to delivering for customers has seen the company rise to the occasion.

 

James Collins, trading director for the QD Group, explains: “Previously, our buying team would have typically visited each supplier in the Far East and across Europe at least four times to agree our seasonal ranges and develop exclusive products for Cherry Lane and QD. However, this year, due to Covid-19 restrictions and countries being in lockdown, we have had to do this all remotely. It’s a totally new approach but we’ve found new ways to work with suppliers to ensure we deliver the products our customers want this Christmas.”

 

The Group also began its Christmas forecasting much earlier to ensure key festive items were given priority for shipping. This included juggling three to five different shipping lines simultaneously and working closely with suppliers to get product sent into the warehouse well in advance.


While international shortages of computer chips and national lockdowns have affected manufacturing of products such as smart lights and crackers for some retailers, by working ahead, QD’s team has been able to source these items and get them on the shelves in good time. The Group has also shifted its focus to buy more products from the UK and Europe to ensure shorter lead times and offer customers new items.

 

In addition, investment has been made by the QD Group to scale up its online operation. James Collins adds: “We’re finding that some customers still prefer to shop from home so we’ve been expanding the e-commerce side of the business to offer our range, still at the same great prices, for home delivery.”

 

Sustainability has also been high on the agenda at QD since the company launched its Value Our Planet strategy in 2018. The Group now has more than 50 ranges of environmentally friendly products in-store, including its largest ever selection of recyclable cards, crackers, gift wrap, bags and gift tags, plus a plant-based, zero plastic sticky tape which is compostable and biodegradable. QD stores will also be stocking real Christmas trees grown and potted in the Cherry Lane nurseries this year, not to mention energy efficient LED lights and artificial trees made from 100% recycled plastic.

 

The QD brand was established in 1985 by the company’s CEO Nick Rubins’ father, and current Chairman, Danny Rubins. The first store was located in Anglia Square, Norwich, where it is still open today. QD prides itself on its family focus and local roots.

 

Nick Rubins, CEO of the QD Group, said: “As a family-run business, we can be much more agile than many of the national chains. We rely on great communication – internally, with our suppliers and talking directly with our customers too – and have been able to make decisions quickly to ensure QD secures everything for a brilliant family Christmas this year – and all still at our great value prices. At the same time, we’ve continued our focus on becoming a more environmentally responsible business, cutting our waste and offering customers a wider selection of eco products. Last Christmas was low key and uncertain for so many people across the country, we’ve really pulled out all the stops for 2021 to help customers enjoy fantastic celebrations together this year.”

 

The QD Group is an independent, family-owned chain of High Street value retail outlets. There are currently 28 QD - QualityDiscounts.com stores across the country, plus 15 Cherry Lane Garden Centres, four Thing-Me-Bob stores and Lathams of Potter Heigham.

 

For more information on QD, visit www.qualitydiscounts.com.

 
Woodlodge to showcase 700 lines at Harrogate fair

Woodlodge will be exhibiting its Christmas product range at the Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair in January 2022. It will be the first time the business has attended the event and will be showcasing 700 festive lines on a dedicated Snowlodge stand...


Woodlodge will be exhibiting its Christmas product range at the Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair in January 2022. It will be the first time the business has attended the event and will be showcasing 700 festive lines on a dedicated Snowlodge stand.

 

The Snowlodge collection, which was launched to acclaim at the end of last year has proved popular with retailers, with Woodlodge dedicating a whole stand to it at Glee 2021. Harrogate Christmas & Gift will open doors to a new audience and retailers who are keen to capitalise on the Christmas decoration market.

 

Being one of the very first trade shows of 2022, taking place from 16th - 19th January at the Harrogate Convention Centre, it will provide Woodlodge  with the best start, displaying the Snowlodge range to retailers and kicking off next year’s sales.

 

With festive décor representing big business in the gift retail industry and the company taking note of current buying trends, Snowlodge is a carefully curated portfolio of stylish, trend-led and classical décor ideas, designed to energise the Christmas sector and provide a variety of price-points across multiple categories. The range is backed by the highest quality promise and unrivalled customer service which has become synonymous with the Woodlodge brand. 

 

The magic of Christmas is brought to life with handmade craft products that include festive stars, room ornaments and decorations, figurines and candle holders, stylish trees, gonks and baubles, novelty doorstops as well as wreaths, garlands and joyeux LED lighting that will illuminate the home for Christmas.

 

Woodlodge has also produced a range of amazing outdoor Snowlodge easy-to-assemble decorations including silhouettes, stakes, reindeer and a range of lighting solutions to create the best ever display, providing retailers with the ultimate Christmas collection under one roof.

 

With 2021’s celebrations set to be big on decorations and table dressing following the muted festive period of 2020, Woodlodge’s Snowlodge range will continue this trend with its magical and whimsical products that are perfect for a family orientated Christmas.   

 

As people want to spend more time with loved ones over Christmas and staying in for New Year, retailers can expect consumers to embrace the festive season like never before, with nostalgia and splendour playing a large part.

 

Nature has been at the core of many activities over the past two years, and it is predicted that consumers will be seeking a more simplistic approach to their festive decorations next year. Snowlodge offers an earthy, subtle and muted palette in its range, with snow white shades, frosted silver and glass playing a big part in the home, as well as rustic wood and rattan adding decorative effect in a time of good will and optimism post pandemic. 

 

Michael Wooldridge, Director at Woodlodge said: “We were thrilled with the reaction to our Snowlodge range in 2021 and are now ready to bring our offering to the wider market including independent retailers and department stores at Harrogate & Christmas Gift. With Christmas being a fast-evolving trade and sales starting increasingly early, Harrogate is the perfect show for retailers to view themes and innovation  and explore the Snowlodge festive collection which builds on Woodlodge’s expertise from our Honey & Wild garden and gift décor range.”

 

Woodlodge will be exhibiting the Snowlodge range in Hall M, stand M24. 

 

The Christmas collection is backed up by innovative displays and merchandising to ensure a busy and profitable festive 2022 season. 

 
Meet the team helping companies grow, Cultiv8 Marketing

Since establishing in 2018, owners of Cultiv8 Marketing, Rob Giles and Alex Giles have been helping companies grow using bespoke marketing packages designed to get the best return from their marketing budgets...


 

Since establishing in 2018, owners of Cultiv8 Marketing, Rob Giles and Alex Giles have been helping companies grow using bespoke marketing packages designed to get the best return from their marketing budgets. 

 

Formerly called Stratrg Ltd, Cultiv8 Marketing offer marketing and branding services, with many of their customers operating in the home, garden and pet industry. Having over 20 years combined experience in marketing and product management roles in these industries, Cutliv8 have developed an agency that understands the ins and outs of working in these markets.

 

This includes having the flexibility to work with differing budgets and delivering to tight timescales. With excellent market knowledge, Cultiv8 are well placed to help you create better marketing whilst sharing your goals to help you to grow.

 

Rebrand or Refresh

Whether your need is to rebrand or even breathe life into your current offer, Cultiv8 Marketing can help. This can be for one off projects or an on-going resource to help continuously improve your content and communications. 

 

Lydia Grayston, Marketing Manager of Sipcam Home & Garden said:

‘Working with Cultiv8 is a joy. Rob and Alex bring so much innovation and knowledge to our marketing campaigns. They are happy to take on any new challenges we set and execute everything they do with the highest level of creativity, going that extra mile to ensure they meet even the tightest of deadlines. They successfully manage our social media platforms, creative design and are always at the forefront of our marketing campaigns which included a major re-brand project last year. We no longer see them as our marketing agency, but very much part of our team.’

 

Launch or Develop

Trained in professional marketing, Cultiv8 Marketing can help at differing stages of product life cycles. You may have a brand-new idea that you need bringing to market, requiring a solid communications plan. At the same time Cultiv8 can breathe life into new product development projects by delivering new packaging and fresh content ideal for your target audience.

 

Emily Scruton, Brand Manager of WHM Pet Group said:

‘Rob and Alex have produced videos, editorials and managed our social media over the past year and a half for us. With great attention to detail, they’re always collaborative and coming up with new, engaging content to help promote our brand. Also working extremely well under tight deadlines, Rob and Alex have become part of the team in helping contribute to the marketing strategy and overseeing it being successful.’

 

Big or Small

Cultiv8 have worked with start-ups, new overseas entrants to the UK market and established multi-national companies. Every business has differing resources and Cultiv8 pride themselves on being flexible and creative to provide the best return on investment possible to their customers. With fresh ideas and only your best interests in mind, Cultiv8 are an extension of your team and a flexible resource you can count on whenever it is needed.

 

Speak to Cultiv8 Marketing today for a free consultation about your business or to discuss a specific project in mind. Alternatively for more information and examples of past work please visit - https://www.cultiv8marketing.co.uk/.

Rob Giles – Mob: 07735 618972  Email - rob@cultiv8marketing.co.uk

Alex Giles – Mob: 07912 759474 Email - alex@cultiv8marketing.co.uk

 
Arboretum named National Retailer of The Year

The Arboretum with branches in Leighlinbridge in Co. Carlow and Kilquade in Co. Wicklow has been named National Retailer of the Year in the annual Retail Excellence awards...


 

The Arboretum with branches in Leighlinbridge in Co. Carlow and Kilquade in Co. Wicklow has been named National Retailer of the Year in the annual Retail Excellence awards.

 

Fergal Boyle, of the Arboretum paid tribute to the team of over 130 people between the two locations who have worked tirelessly over the past two years. 

 

He said: “We are thrilled with this award and we regard it as a wonderful acknowledgement of the hard work and dedication which our team have shown over the past two years.  It has been an incredibly difficult year or two between the pandemic, the various lockdowns and the challenges that people are facing every day of the week but our team has kept going throughout everything and they are the reason we have won this award.”

 

Duncan Graham, Chief Executive of Retail Excellence said that Arboretum was a wonderful example of Irish retail: “The Doyles have created a magnificent retail experience and they are worthy winners of the title National Retailer of the Year.”

 
Elho takes top prize as GIMA Award winners announced

Elho won the Sword of Excellence at the GIMA Awards last night with its Green Basics Veggie Wall 80cm. Other winners on a spectacular night of celebration at Celtic Manor in Wales included: Richard Jackson Garden, Stihl, Fallen Fruits, Mr Fothergill's Seeds, Onduline, Wildlife World, The Solar Centre, Woodlodge, Evergreen Garden Care, Dalefoot Compost and Meadow View Stone...


 

Elho won the Sword of Excellence at the GIMA Awards last night with its Green Basics Veggie Wall 80cm. Other winners on a spectacular night of celebration at Celtic Manor in Wales included: Richard Jackson Garden, Stihl, Fallen Fruits, Mr Fothergill's Seeds, Onduline, Wildlife World, The Solar Centre, Woodlodge, Evergreen Garden Care, Dalefoot Compost and Meadow View Stone.

 

Celebrating the innovation, dedication and passion that goes into everything – from product development, to marketing campaigns and point of sale – the evening saw 17 award winners revealed and was accompanied by a much-needed night of merriment to mark the return of the awards after a two-year hiatus.

 

GIMA Director, Vicky Nuttall, commented on tonight’s event. “I would like to be the first to extend my congratulations to all of the winners and to all those that joined us to welcome the return of the GIMA Awards.  It’s been so good to be back and, even more so, to see that the industry has continued to grow and develop, even when faced with incredible adversity. 

 

“The entries to this year’s awards were of the highest calibre and demonstrate the perseverance and enthusiasm that continues to make garden retail one of the most exciting sectors to be part of.

 

“Our thanks also extend to our judges for lending us their expert eye and skilled opinion, as well as all of our sponsors; without whom the awards would be not be possible.”

 

GIMA AWARDS 2021 – THE WINNERS

 

The big award of the night – the GIMA Sword of Excellence – was, this year, awarded to the team at Elho for its Green Basics Veggie Wall 80cm. This all-in-one system, with frame and netting included, offers urban gardeners an instant growing solution and drew praise from the judges for its ease of use and ‘plug and play’ capabilities. The judges also said: “Such a great product, perfect for new gardeners with smaller outdoor space; and made from recycled plastics.  It really ticks all the boxes.”

 

The 2021 GCA Supplier of the Year Award was a hotly contested award but it was Meadow View Stone who walked away with the coveted title. The judges offered some key reasons why Meadow View deserves this leading accolade, including: “Some of best communication and supply in some of the hardest times, keeping me informed and the full range supplied on time”, and “Consistent service throughout a challenging year.  Very impressive support and supply”, 

 

This year, the Gardenex Export Achievement Award was awarded to Wildlife World. The judges’ comments included: “A worthy winner of this year’s Export Achievement Award, showing great initiative and success.  When developing a new sales channel in the USA, Wildlife World remarketed its bird care products for the American market, created vibrant and eye-catching instore displays and is now successfully trading with over 50 Wild Birds Unlimited stores, achieving a significant increase in sales in the USA.”

 

The GIMA Awards newest award – Sustainability – was also a hard-fought category, with Phoenox Textiles, Hygeia, Primeur and West Country Soil Improvement all enjoying finalist status. However, it was Dalefoot Compost who the judges selected as 2021 winner, describing it as, “a company that has sustainability and the environment at the very heart of what it does.  As well as delivering a great peat-free product, its peatland restoration work makes Dalefoot a worthy winner of this inaugural Sustainability Award.”

 

GIMA AWARDS 2021 - PRODUCT AWARDS

 

Garden Care 

Winner: Richard Jackson Garden - Plantsmith houseplant care product range

Finalists: Evergreen Garden Care - Miracle-Gro Peat Free, SBM Life Science Ltd - Provanto® Smart Bug Killer, Sipcam Home & Garden - Ecofective Plant Disease Defence RTU and Refill, REMIN (Scotland) Ltd - 10kg bag REMIN volcanic rock dust

About the winner: Traditionally, houseplant care products are packaged and sold like traditional garden care products. They’re functional but not aesthetic, you’d hide them under the kitchen sink for example. Plantsmith is a new range of professionally formulated products, designed to look as good as they perform.

What the judges said: “Great looking and well executed product that will sell well in all houseplant departments.”

 

Growing, Planting Equipment and Sundries

Winner: Elho - Green Basics Veggie Wall 80cm

Finalists: GARDENA – AquaBloom, Woodlodge - Honey & Wild Plant Support Collection, Capi Europe – Rain Barrel Row NL – olive green 

About the winner: It's a unique all-in-one ‘plug and play’ solution for any urban gardener wanting to grow climbing fruit, vegetables and flowers in a small space.

What the judges said: “Great all-in-one growing solution boosted by the use of recycled plastic.”

 

Garden Tools, Machinery and Implements

Winner: Stihl - STIHL HSA 26

Finalists:  GARDENA – Leaf Collector, Burgon & Ball - Sophie Conran for Burgon & Ball garden tool additions, Westland Horticulture – The Capability Trowel

About the winner: The HSA 26 is part of the STIHL AS Cordless System for garden maintenance. The trimmer attachments are easy to swap over in seconds and, with a battery run time of up to 110 minutes, this lightweight and manoeuvrable tool is equally good at trimming topiary or lawn edges.

What the judges said: “Great flexible tool, lightweight and helps keep everything trim and tidy.”

 

Outdoor Leisure 

Winner: Fallen Fruits – MGO Firebowl

Finalists: Zest 4 Leisure – Burghley Arbour, Zest 4 Leisure – Chepstow Arbour, Tramontina – Beer Barrel Grill

About the winner:  With its light grey colour and contemporary design and dual use, firebowl/BBQ is a change from the traditional metal or terracotta garden heating options. Made from magnesium oxide, it is fire resistant, strong, resistant to mould and mildew, and can easily withstand the outdoor elements.

What the judges said: “Modern and functional.  Suitable for all gardens, balconies and patios.”

 

Plants, Seeds and Bulbs

Winner: Mr Fothergill's Seeds – RHS Flower Mixes

Finalists: Farplants Ltd – Skimmia Perosa, DLF Seeds Ltd – Tuffgrass (Johnsons Lawn Seed), Mr Fothergill's Seeds Johnsons Seeds Microgreens Range

About the winner:  Aimed at novice gardeners and those looking for an economic and efficient way to fill flower beds and borders with long season colour. The seed is diluted with natural buckwheat husks to aid broadcast sowing. Grow beautiful flowers in three easy steps: Scatter, Rake, Awake!

What the judges said: “They've got everything right with this range; seed selection, packaging, name, easy to use, it really stood out.”

 

Garden Landscaping

Winner: Onduline Building Products Ltd – ONDULINE EASYLINE DIY roof sheets

Finalists: Vitavia Greenhouses – Janssens Urban Greenhouse, Deco-Pak – Glasglo, Woodlodge – Honey & Wild Songbird Garden Arch

About the winner: With people spending more time in their gardens, introducing ONDULINE EASYLINE roofing sheets into the retail offering is creating a prime new opportunity to attract value-conscious customers who are keen to upgrade their existing garden buildings sustainably, rather than face the expense of a brand-new shed.

What the judges said: “A versatile product, ideal for small projects.”

 

Garden Clothing & Gifts

Winner: Richard Jackson Garden – Plantsmith Gift Boxes

Finalists: Smart Garden Products – Bees Collection, Burgon & Ball – RHS Gifts for Gardeners ‘British Meadow’ gardening gift collection, Woodlodge – Honey & Wild Bee Spiral Mobile

About the winner: You can buy beautifully packaged scented candles and beauty kits, but gardening gift kits have always tended to be practical and not particularly attractive. Plantsmith wants to change that with our houseplant care gift boxes. Designed to appeal as a gift for all houseplant lovers, especially the more style-conscious gardeners.

What the judges said: “The ideal gift for any houseplant lover.”

 

Pet Care, Aquatics and Wild Bird Care Products

Winner: Wildlife World – Artisan Bird Nesters

Finalists: Smart Garden – Wild Wings Feeding Station, Capi Europe - Design Butterfly Hotel, Westland Horticulture – Peckish Natural Balance Bird Food Range

About the winners: These are fantastic products for a few reasons: They are ethically produced – both in the sense of materials used – natural and recycled – and the fact that these products support woman in very poor parts of Bangladesh. These social enterprises transform local communities, pioneer upcycling, empower women, champion refugee rights and practice organic farming.

What the judges said: “Important social and environmental values embedded into good-looking, well made, practical products.”

 

 

Garden Lighting, Water Features & Ornamentation 

Winner: The Solar Centre – Kingsbridge Solar Wall Light

Finalist: Smart Garden Products – Mega SpiraLight, The Solar Centre – Salcombe Solar Wall Light, Smart Garden Products – Forli Flaming Lantern

About the winner: This light delivers everything a security light does but in a contemporary, stylish-looking light fitting.

What the judges said: “Super stylish, minimalist design and excellent quality.”

 

Decorative Pots & Planters 

Winner: Woodlodge – Bee Kind Honeycomb and Bumbee Pots

Finalist: Woodlodge – Bee Wall Teapot, Burgon & Ball - Burgon & Ball Malibu indoor plant pots, Woodlodge – Kensington Redstone range

About the winner: As concern escalates over pollinator decline and gardeners seek to make wildlife-friendly havens, Honeycomb and Bumbee were added to the Bee Kind range to draw attention to the plight of much-loved but endangered insects.  Highly giftable, the range is the perfect container for any nature lover.

What the judges said: “The Bee Kind range has been one of this year's best sellers and, at the same time, has supported the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, which is fabulous!”

 

GIMA AWARDS 2021 – MARKETING AWARDS

 

Best Point of Sale Material

Winner: Wildlife World – Cotswold Granaries FSDU

Finalists: Elho – Sustainability Vertical Banner, Elho – Green Basics 200L Rainbarrel POS, Westland Horticulture – Westland Specialist Feeds & Compost DQP

About the winner:  The Cotswold Granaries FSDU is a completely custom design, cut out of OSB using Wildlife World’s in-house CNC machine. The laser-engraved header, logo and shelf stripes offer a unique design, whilst cutting the environmental impact of printing! The unit is also made from 100% FSC and PEFC Timber.

What the judges said: “An attractive piece of point of sale that's natural, rustic, simple and not over-engineered.”

 

 

Best Sustainable Consumer Product Packaging

Winner: Wildlife World – Cotswold Granaries Wild Animal Food

Finalists: Sipcam Home & Garden – Ecofective Refills and Recycled Bottles, Westland Horticulture - Natural Balance range, Vitax Ltd - Vitax Organic Feeds, Hozelock – Superhoze Packaging

About the winner: No other wild animal food company has produced products in fully 100% home compostable packaging, even down to the re-sealable zip. It's a top quality, nutritionally dense range of feeds that will attract and sustain wildlife in the consumer’s garden.

What the judges said: “Attractive and well executed packaging with clear sustainable credentials.  Everything, even the resealable zips are fully compostable!”

 

Best Marketing Communication & Social Media Award

Winner: Evergreen Garden Care – Miracle-Gro Mental Health Awareness Campaign

Finalists: Stihl - TV ad and supporting campaign, Westland Horticulture – Peckish Digital Bird Food Campaign, Westland Horticulture – Specialist Feeds Digital Campaign

About the winner: We have not seen a mental health campaign like this in the garden care space before. We were not seeking to promote a specific product with the campaign, but instead to work to encourage open dialogue about mental health and educate about the health benefits of gardening.

What the judges said: “A well-executed campaign, which really brought the connection between gardening, mindfulness and wellbeing to the fore, as well as encouraging an open dialogue about mental health.”

 

This year the GIMA Awards winners were selected by a panel of industry experts, made up of Alexa Blackmore, The Gardens Group; Andy Bunker, Alton Garden Centre; Matthew Bent, Bents Garden & Home; Trevor Pfeiffer, Garden Trade News; Victoria Redshaw, Scarlet Opus; Phillippa Stubbs, British Garden Centres; and Stuart Whalley, Rosebourne. 

 
Picture Special of the glitzy GIMA Awards evening

Here’s our picture special from last night’s glitzy GIMA Awards evening hosted by celebrity Vernon Kay. Pictures taken by Steve Burden and Trevor Pfeiffer.


Click here to see gallery of pictures

 

Here’s our picture special from last night’s glitzy GIMA Awards evening hosted by celebrity Vernon Kay.  Pictures taken by Steve Burden and Trevor Pfeiffer.

 

 
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 07973 504214, e-mail karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

For further information contact karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or call 07973504214.

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

All the latest news from the world of pet products


Bruce’s scoops customer service award

Dog day care company Bruce’s secured the Best Customer Service Award at the 2021 Surrey Business Awards, capping off a stellar year for the business...


 

Dog day care company Bruce’s secured the Best Customer Service Award at the 2021 Surrey Business Awards, capping off a stellar year for the business. 

 

Bruce’s strong commitment to its customers, including opening during the lockdown months to care for the dogs of key workers, was recognised by the judges for going above and beyond. 

 

As part of its dedication to its customers, Bruce’s has developed its own bespoke software application to support their needs. The app allows customers to book sessions remotely and receive updates on how their dog is progressing at day care, alongside useful advice and tips.

 

Going the extra mile to understand what makes each dog different has led to a 98% customer satisfaction score in their recent customer feedback survey. This extra attention to detail resonated with the judges and saw Bruce’s claim the award. 

 

Despite disruption caused by covid-19, Bruce’s has continued to go from strength-to-strength, opening new sites throughout the South-East. Having started with two sites in 2019, Bruce’s now has eight with further growth plans for 2022.

 

Bruce Casalis, founder of Bruce’s, said: “Winning Best Customer Service is a real testament to the brilliant work that our staff have been doing to support our dogs and their owners through what has been a difficult year. 

 

“The pandemic created extra challenges for the business to overcome, but I’m delighted with how the team responded. To be recognised for this and to win against some incredible local companies is an honour and I can’t wait to celebrate the hard work and dedication of the entire Bruce’s family.”

 
UK pet boom presents sales opportunities

A lockdown-driven boom in the UK pet population is creating huge opportunities for retailers that can meet the increasingly exacting needs of a new generation of pet parents...


A lockdown-driven boom in the UK pet population is creating huge opportunities for retailers that can meet the increasingly exacting needs of a new generation of pet parents. 

 

Research by Mars Petcare has revealed that the new generation of owners are likely to view themselves as much more than merely ‘owners’ of pets. The proportion of pet owners who say their animals are like children to them almost doubled between 2016 and 2020, while the proportion who view their pets as family members but not children fell significantly.

 

The research also revealed that the number of dogs and cats in the UK surged by 7% year-on-year in 2020 as Brits sought the mental health benefits and companionship of pet ownership during lockdown. That’s a rise of more than 1.5 million pets.

 

As revealed in Mars Petcare’s second annual petcare category report, Pet therapy: The retail opportunities of the pandemic pet boom, the surge in pet ownership is being driven by young urbanites, with 55% of new pet owners living in cities and a third aged under 40.

 

This group is more likely to favour pedigree breeds of dogs and cats and has a particular penchant for smaller ‘toy’ dog breeds. The number of shih tzus, daschunds, pugs and chihuahuas living in the UK surged by 141%, or 74,000 animals, between 2016 and 2020.

 

The number of pedigree cats in the country has also surged, with the British Shorthair (Britain’s most popular purebred cat) population surging by 25.4% to 1.1 million animals between 2016 and 2020. The number of Persian cats in Britain has more than tripled and Bengals are up 71%.

 

Zoe Taphouse, category and market activation director at Mars Petcare UK, said: “Unprecedented growth in pet ownership and the shifting demographics of ownership are driving huge demand for specialist products that cater for animals’ specific needs and build closer bonds between owners and pets. 

 

“The new generation of pet parents are spending more money on products that give animals optimum nutrition for the life stage they’re at. They’re giving pet food as much consideration as the food they eat themselves, and trends in human food & drink are being reflected in the category.” 

 

Total sales of pet food and litter have surged by 10.8%, a staggering rise worth £45m. This is being driven by rocketing demand for pet food and treats formulated with natural ingredients and based on the diets of animals in the wild.

 

Mars Petcare’s Crave brand is a perfect example of this, with sales of its Protein Strips, Chunks and Chews dog treats up 257.2% to £3.1m in the past year. That makes Crave, which contains high animal protein levels and zero artificial ingredients or grains, the UK’s fastest-growing dog treat.

 

To unlock further value from growing demand for natural pet nutrition and Britain’s growing population of smaller dogs, Mars Petcare launched the Natural Goodness range under the Cesar brand, the UK’s bestseller in premium wet dog food, in July.

 

With Brits turning to four-legged friends for comfort during the turmoil of the pandemic, the number of puppies living in the UK almost tripled between 2016 and 2020. By the end of last year, there were 1.8 million puppies in the country.

 

The greater number of puppies and kittens in the country, combined with the fact that smaller breeds of dog tend to live considerably longer than larger breeds, means petcare category growth is likely to be sustained in the long term, adds Taphouse. “The prospects for the category are extremely good,” she says.

 

Not only do shoppers tend to shop petcare for considerably longer than other categories such as infant care, they also show a far greater propensity to trade up and try new things. With the right ranges and in-store marketing, our retail partners can look forward to a long period of growth.” 

Interpet brings out new Fit & Wild Aquarium Fish Food

 

Interpet has unveiled a new balanced, nutritious, every day, fishmeal-free food based on the natural diet of most aquarium fish – insects and small crustaceans...


 

Interpet has unveiled a new balanced, nutritious, every day, fishmeal-free food based on the natural diet of most aquarium fish – insects and small crustaceans.

 

The Fit & Wild Aquarium Fish Food range includes flakes and pellets for goldfish and tropical fish and veggie wafers and flakes for bottom feeders and more herbivorous fish.

 

Adrian Exell, Development and Marketing Manager at Interpet, which is part of the Central Garden & Pet company, explains: “Our new Fit & Wild Aquarium Fish Food is a complete range of food, which offers a more natural diet for most freshwater aquarium fish and contains all the high quality, palatable protein that is closer to what they would eat in the wild, including Mealworm meal, Daphnia, Bloodworms and Black Soldier Fly Larvae.

 

“This new range offers aquarium fish keepers the chance to prioritise the health and wellbeing of their aquatic pets and lessen their environmental impact at the same time.

 

“Feeding a more natural, complete food will help bring out the best in their fish. With better diet and nutrition, they will maintain a healthier condition, be stronger, have more vitality and vivid colours, as well as enhanced growth and resistance to illness.

 

“Fit & Wild is free from fishmeal, one of the traditional main ingredients of most aquarium fish foods. Fishmeal is mostly made of small oily fish, unsustainably harvested from the sea.

 

“Millions of tonnes of these fish are taken from the wild annually, which adds to the over-fishing issues that we face as a planet. These forage fish are also fundamentally important for supporting and feeding the marine food web, including animals like dolphins, sharks and whales. Feeding fish an insect-based food is much kinder to the oceans and wider environment.”

 

As Interpet’s Fit & Wild food is an everyday fish food, closer to a fish’s natural diet and a more sustainable option, it should help bricks and mortar and online retailers develop a stronger relationship with their customers too.

 

“Starting people with our high-quality fish food will help stores selling our products foster a long-term, brand-aware, loyal customer, who sees great results and makes return visits. As well as offering this new food as a standalone product, free samples will be included with our Interpet Bioactive Tapsafe, Greenaway and Gold Tapsafe treatments for consumers to try.

 

“Interpet Fit & Wild food is best for fish, as it’s made using the natural diet of most freshwater aquarium fish. It will help ensure they grow well, look their very best, are stronger, livelier and healthier, and are more likely to reach breeding condition.

 

“Feeding fish an insect-based food is best for our oceans too. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), in figures published in 2020, 18 million tonnes of fish were turned into fishmeal and fish oil in 2018, a lot of which were raided from the world’s oceans.”

 

 

Interpet Fit & Wild food comes in various options and package sizes:

  • Fit & Wild Tropical Flake 18g - SSP £3.99
  • Fit & Wild Tropical Flake 45g - SSP £6.99
  • Fit & Wild Tropical Pellet 50g - SSP £5.99
  • Fit & Wild Tropical Pellet 140g - SSP £11.99
  • Fit & Wild Goldfish Flakes 18g - SSP £3.29
  • Fit & Wild Goldfish Flakes 45g - SSP £5.29
  • Fit & Wild Goldfish Pellet 50g - SSP £5.99
  • Fit & Wild Goldfish Pellet 125g - SSP £11.49
  • Fit & Wild Veggie Wafers 40g - SSP £4.99
  • Fit & Wild Veggie Flakes 45g - SSP £6.99

 

Recommended dosage: As much as fish will eat in two-three minutes, two-three times a day. For veggie wafers – as much as fish will eat in two hours.

 

The Fit & Wild range is available for retailers to order now.

 

For further trade information, retailers should contact their Interpet Area Sales Manager or sign-up to Interpet’s new online ordering system: https://trade.interpet.co.uk.

 

To find out more about the new Fit & Wild range, please visit www.interpet.co.uk/Products/Feeding/Fit-Wild or https://youtu.be/yM_CHFxrwMc.