In This Issue
Mothers Day bonanza as garden centre records are broken across the country - UPDATED
Greenfingers Garden Re-Leaf Days raise over £500,000
Fife garden centre purchased and refurbished
Grange expands Ultimate range following 2016 success
HSBC supports acquisition of Eastleigh garden centre
Keter to take over Stewart Plastics
Great start to the season...or is it a false dawn?
Selfie saves Norwich garden centre owners from Westminster carnage
Newshound finds Mr M has been busy recruiting 'experience'...
GIMA announces new Council at AGM
Whitehall Woodborough re-opens after re-fit in time for Mothers Day
Glee and the HTA confirm new three-year agreement
Overseas buyers ready to do business with UK suppliers
Garden leisure market grew 6% last year says new report
Partnership agreement between the Salon du Végétal fair, HTA National Plant Show and HTA Nursery Supply Show
Dutch Design in flowers at the Keukenhof opening
Plantarea Supervior / Manager (Berkshire)
Buyer Houseplants & Bulbs - Maternity cover (Berkshire)
Horticultural Buyer Specimens and Shrubs (Berkshire)
Sales Exec Horticultural Packaging (Essex)
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra
Plant feeds and lawncare dominate sales
UK warning to Brussels on over-zealous approach to pest products
Young veg plants are a week ahead of schedule
March growing media sales up 32% so far
spoga+gafa 2017: Excellent number of bookings
Garden Press Event moves to the Business Design Centre in 2018
Plant sales flourish
Introducing the Retail Lab @ Glee, in association with the HTA
Flemish pavilion confirmed for Glee 2017
Johnsons Lawn Seed ‘Campaign for Quality’: Size matters
Stewart Garden Schools Campaign grows by 75%
Pictures from the Greatest Christmas Gold-winning teams
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week
Buy your subscription to GTN Bestsellers
All the latest news from the world of garden centre catering
Commercial Kitchen unveils its initial exhibitor list for 2017
Situations Vacant
Plantarea Supervior / Manager (Berkshire)
Salary: £18,000 - £23,000
 
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Buyer Houseplants & Bulbs - Maternity cover (Berkshire)
Salary: £35,000 - £45,000
 
Read more»
Horticultural Buyer Specimens and Shrubs (Berkshire)
Salary: £35,000 - £45,000
 
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Sales Exec Horticultural Packaging (Essex)
Salary: £20,000 - £30,000
 
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Mothers Day bonanza as garden centre records are broken across the country - UPDATED


It was a record breaking Mothers Day weekend - official!  Over the course of yesterday and this morning GTN Xtra has been speaking to garden centres across the country and here is the feedback from: Green Pastures, Scotsdales, Caulders, Alton's, Millbrook, Haskins, Stewarts, Fron Goch, Raemoir, Bents, Hillview, Baytree, Cowells, Fresh @ Burcot, Perrywood and Creative Gardens.

New comments from Klondyke, Waresley Park and Barton Grange added...

It was a record breaking Mother's Day weekend for garden centres - official!  Over the course of yesterday and this morning GTN Xtra has been speaking to garden centres across the country and here is the feedback from: Green Pastures, Scotsdales, Caulders, Alton's, Millbrook, Haskins, Stewarts, Fron Goch, Raemoir, Bents, Hillview, Baytree, Cowells, Fresh @ Burcot, Perrywood, Creative Gardens, Klondyke, Waresley Park and Barton Grange.

James Debbage, Green Pastures, Norwich told GTN Xtra yesterday: “It's proving to be a fantastic weekend (at least for March) by the way. We smashed our daily sales record in the restaurant yesterday and today's shaping up to be fantastic in there too.”


Caroline Owen, Scotsdales, Cambridge said:
“Yes a very busy weekend certainly 100%+ up on Mother’s Day weekend last year and very positive comparing Easter Saturday with yesterday.

“Mother’s day trading is always better when the day falls later in the year last year I think it was nearly the earliest and this year nearly the latest in 2019 the day falls on 31st March which I believe is the latest.

“The weather has really helped and this is key and sales are excellent across the whole garden centre plant sales particularly.

“Our restaurant is very busy but we don’t book tables.

“I just would like to be able to open longer on Sundays and as such for Scotsdales Bank Holiday Mondays will always be our busiest days but that of course is a bigger issue.”

Caroline later added “Just to let you know that today (Mother’s Day) has been our best day revenue wise for our Sunflower Restaurant.”

 

Colin Barrie, Caulders Garden Centres in Scotland: “The sun shone with us yesterday (Saturday) and our figures took a sharp increase!  Plant sales this weekend have been excellent, with this weekend really being the first decent one this year for plants and core gardening.

“Our restaurants have been packed full for Mother’s Day - again, the busiest day since last summer.

“Long may it continue!!”

 

Andy Bunker, Alton Garden Centre, Wickford, Essex: “We had a very good Saturday considering last year it was Easter Saturday.  Plant dept. up 34% on the day compared to 2016, whole centre plus 10% on same day.

“Our restaurant was plus 28% vs Mother’s Day Saturday 2016.

“You cannot compare exact like for like because of course we were closed on Easter Sunday, but again all those worrying about Brexit yet again forget it.  Weather, weather, weather.

“Although we did not get the supposed heat wave quite a nice 14/15 degrees.  To add in March is a whopping 20% up to date.”

 

Tam Woodhouse, Millbrook Garden Centres, Kent reports: “It was certainly a record breaking Mother’s Day Saturday.  A bit quieter on Sunday but still amazing.  We were up against Easter weekend last year and the Saturday was 43% up on last year. 

“We were seeing sales across every department.  Brilliant plant sales, great gift sales.  The cafes were really busy – we ran an afternoon tea offer with free prosecco for Mum yesterday (Sunday) and that was great – it is the first year we have offered something like that so we see this area growing. 

“We also ran a Mum and child create a fairy garden workshop on Saturday that was really successful at all 3 centres.  It has been a great start to the season, fingers crossed that it continues!”

Conna Powles, Haskins Garden Centres in the South of England told GTN Xtra: “The sun shone and the customers reacted.  We had great sales in the restaurants being 2% up on last year with Roundstone taking a record breaking £16k!

“Overall for the centre, with restaurants included, the week was +34%, the weekend +40% and Mothering Sunday itself was up a whopping 33%.

“Plants were the winning gift with over 3000 gift wraps (+38% on last year) on houseplants, garden plants and planted containers.

“We always create a Mother’s Day shop and set up gift wrap stations but I think this year the staff did the most amazing job they have ever done.”

 

Martin Stewart, Stewarts Garden Centres, South of England reported: “The weekend being 3 weeks later has seen it coincide with the start of spring, although the clocks going forward gave us a slower start to the Sunday. A later Mothering Sunday benefits Outdoor Plants, an early one helps Houseplants.

“Over the two days Christchurch was up 18% and Broomhill an amazing 64%.

“Christchurch Outdoor Plants were up 95% and Broomhill 113%. In our game watching a strong plant sales weekend is the most satisfying sight we can witness.

“Coffee Shops, Gifts and House Plants were marginally up in comparison, but overall the weekend growth belonged to Outdoor Plants.”

 

Justin Williams, Fron Goch, Caernarfon, North Wales said: “It was an excellent weekend. With yesterday being our best ever day to date in restaurant.  We managed 310 carveries in 3 hours. Sales on the day of £7,200 inc vat in the restaurant.”

 

Eliot Mair, Raemoir, Banchory, Scotland: “Settled warm weather proved to be the perfect conditions for the start of the gardening season. All departments busy. Very positive trading weekend.”

 

Matthew Bent, Bents, Warrington: “It has been a good day with the overall sales for the garden centre up, but our restaurant is similar to last year as customers were focusing on their garden and enjoying the sunshine.”

 

Boyd Douglas-Davies, Hillview Garden Centres in the Midlands said: “Excellent week! Started just over a week ago and just got better and better.

“Superb weekend that beat Easter last year by a long way. This is already a record March for us.

“Plants, both Garden and Houseplants had a great week, as did gardening. Particularly pots and compost.”

 

Nigel Wallis, Baytree Garden Centre, Spalding commented: “Yes a fab weekend for us, sales across the centre were up in every department and catering especially. Saturday was better than Sunday for some reason.”

 



Martin Cowell, Cowells, Newcastle summed up their performance as:
“Well what a scorcher!! Just goes to show how the weather still heavily influences our business.

“Sales Mothering Weekend 2016/2017 +124%, sales same Weekend last year +123%.  Very good weather this weekend.  Last year 5/6 degrees this year 17/18 degrees and Mother’s Day 20 days later this year.

“Our Top 5 Departments Mothering weekend were: Perennials +289%, Compost +242%, Shrubs +200%, Bedding +167%, Terracotta +97%.  All very core gardening.

“In the week leading up to Mother’s Day we saw sale of National Gift Vouchers +206% and Cowell’s Gift Vouchers +153%”

 

Neil Gow, Fresh @ Burcot Garden Centre gave us this detailed analysis: “We took the decision to close bookings for Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea earlier in the week as we would rather do what we were going to do well, than more but not so well. So I think we can claim to be fully booked!

“We end to look at 5 year averages rather than comparison to "last year” to get a true picture of trade. Given how much Mother’s Day moves around the month of March, in the 5 years there is only 2014 where it came later than this year which was in 2014 when it fell on the 30th March. That year the weather was warm and sunny too so no wonder that was a big year! In that 5 year period there is also 2013 when Mother’s Day was on the 9th March and a week later our road was blocked for 5 days because of the snow!!

“Mothers Day Saturday 2017 was  22.4% up on our 5 year average and 17.75% up on our biggest previous day which was 2014.  Mothers Day Sunday  2017 was 31% up on our 5 year average . So yes Mothers Day Weekend 2017 has been a good one for us being 24.1% up on our 5 year average.       “We also tend to look at whole weeks as being a smaller centre, a big sale or two can distort figures, and you never can tell when a big order comes! Mother’s Day week -  the 7 days trading from Monday to the end of Mothering Sunday – sees 2017 at 25.2% up on our 5 year average.

“March 2017 is to date, also our highest gross turnover in the 5 year period running 19.98% up on 2016 on a like for like basis which by now had also included Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday trade.”

Simon Bourne from Perrywood, Tiptree, Essex added: “Yes, I can echo what others are saying. I haven't run all the numbers yet but it looks like a record Saturday for March and a record day in the restaurant yesterday.

“March will be a record, beating 2014, our previous record comfortably.”


And over in Northern Ireland, Philip Gass from Greative Gardens tells us: "Mother’s Day weekend was good for us – 46.5% increase on last year.  In our favour with it being a bit later this year and also the weather was good. 

"Increases were really across the board, some better sales of higher price ticket items in Furniture and BBQ departments, but also good increases in plants and gardening."


David Yardley, Klondyke Strikes Garden Centres, North of England and Scotland has just given us some highlights:  "Scotland didn’t perform as well as the North of England as we were comparing 7 days against 7 because we don’t have to close on Easter Sunday up here.  

"Overall we were 30.2 % up for the week compared to Easter last year, 27.9% Garden Centres only, 39.1% up in restaurants. Compared to Mother's Day week last year we were up 66% overall, Garden Centres up 90% and Restaurants up 42% with Mother's Day itself up 82% overall, Gardens Centres up 101% and Restaurants up 48%.

"Figures very good at the moment but not getting carried away, still a lot of weeks to go before we can declare it a good season."


Adrian Goodall, Waresley Park, Bedfordshire send us this summary of trading:  "Saturday was a record day in the garden centre, the busiest ever day in March and April.  Sunday was a record day in the restaurant +22% up on Mother's Day last year.

"Our Mother's Day weekend comparison is +122% on last year and March is already our busiest ever, currently running at over +28% on last year.

"Top sellers are plants, furniture, gifts, garden sundries and farm shop.

"We've had an excellent first quarter, long may it continue. Our customers are in a very positive mood."


Russell Winteridge, Barton Grange, Preston tells us that: "Footfall was down 8% Mothers Day Weekend year on year but turnover up 12% driven by leisure and outdoor sales.  We put this down to being completely covered so we tend not to peak and trough as much as most centres. With good weather, the browsers tend to go eslewhere leaving the committed shoppers to enjoy the experience more, therefore spending more per head on average.

"Straight week comparison; the site was up £60k (+20%), leisure up £20k, catering up £15, the rest spread over various categories. Interestingly, perennials showed a massive increase with most other hardy plant categories similar to last year except conifers which took a bit hit."



Did you have a record breaking Mother's Day weekend?  Send us your trading highlights and we will add them to this story.  e-mail: trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or use the comments button below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Greenfingers Garden Re-Leaf Days raise over £500,000


Early reports indicate that Garden Re-Leaf Day 2017 will stand out as a record breaker in terms of industry participation, sponsorship, and for the grand total raised since 2012 now at an incredible half a million pounds...



Early reports indicate that Garden Re-Leaf Day 2017 will stand out as a record breaker in terms of industry participation, sponsorship, and for the grand total raised since 2012 now at an incredible half a million pounds.

Date for your diary: Garden Re-Leaf Day will be on the 16th March 2018

Walking the walk

100 walkers - the most ever fundraisers for any single Garden Re-Leaf Day event - took part in this year’s walk through Cambridgeshire, which was sponsored by Scotsdales, GTN, LOFA, Outback, Briers, Cadix UK Ltd, GIMA, Kelkay, Town & Country’s Mark Butler, Hozelock, SBM Life Science, Youngs Coaches and Quinton Edwards.  The event has so far raised £25,000 - smashing last year’s total of £9,000.

Special thanks must go to  Scotsdales. As well as beingthe main sponsor of the event, fielded a team of walkers and fundraised in-store, raising over £1k for Greenfingers Charity. They are now busy planning their 24 hour Plant-athon which takes place next month.

Thanks too, to Garden Re-Leaf newcomer Mr Fothergill’s, who have so far raised over £3,986 from the walk and also the company’s ‘Go Green’ event held at their base in Suffolk. 

Bayer’s new owners SBM Life Science were another company that jumped in to support Garden Re-Leaf for the first time, raising £2,180.53 from fundraising in the office and the walk – for sponsoring medals, providing items for the goody bags as well as two welcome refreshment stations along the route of the walk.

Special mentions also to Garden Store Gallopers (Boyd and his team) who raised £3,003; Cadix UK Ltd, who not only raised £2,221 also sponsored a support car.

Head of Fundraising and Communications, Linda Petrons, said: “This year’s Garden Re-Leaf walk was a record breaker that boosted publicity for Greenfingers Charity like never before.  I know it was a real challenge for many of those that took part, and with many giving up their valuable time, travelling and organising overnight stays, it really was an incredible effort and on behalf of Greenfingers I must say we are so very grateful to you all.”

Garden Centres raise over £20k and rising…

  • Klondyke’s plant-athons are expected to raise over £8000
  • Adrian Hall, vintage tea party with raffle raised £320.00
  • Aylett Garden Centre’s mad hatter day, with Pippa Greenwood raised £918.20
  • Alan Down’s hellebore tour at Cleeve Nursery raised £433
  • Haskins raised a whopping £3,000
  • Holiday Inn Colchester’s Quiz night raised over £400
  • Longacres raffles, food tastings and special offers raised a total of £2,565.85
  • Millbrook Garden Centres spring launch raised £2,437.66
  • Old Railway Line’s quiz and curry night raised £617.90
  • Perrywood’s quiz night raised £1,155
  • Orchard Park Garden Centre has beaten its target of £500

We look forward to hearing the final totals raised by Hillview’s megathons and:

  • Andy Bunker and the team at Alton Garden Centre whose Plant-athon has so far raised over £500
  • British Garden centres static push bike
  • Chessington Garden Centre, drinks, pots and gardening sets sales        
  • Coletta and Tyson Garden Centre               
  • Fairweather Garden Centre             
  • Ross Garden Store
  • Langlands Garden Centres
  • Paradise Park who were planning daytime events and a quiz night
  • Pondkeeper’s raffle
  • Rolawn’s miniature spring fair and product promotion     
  • Squire’s Garden Centre, Hersham’s afternoon tea
  • Whitehall Garden Centres
  • HTA fundraising at the APL Awards
  • Deco-Pak’s play pit sand promotion

Garden Re-Leaf on TV and Radio

QVC and its gardening experts gave Garden Re-Leaf Day a huge boost once more this year.  Hosted by Greenfingers Founder President and QVC presenter, Richard Jackson, two special shows on Saturday 18th March and Sunday 19th March helped to raise a magnificent £37,000.

Very special thanks to Richard Jackson’s Garden, Hayloft Plants, De Jager, Plants2Gardens, Thompson & Morgan, Mont Rose of Guernsey for their generosity.

BBC Radio Cambridge held a special Garden Re-Leaf show on the 15th March, promoting the walk and the event in general, with local TV reporters appearing at Scotsdales alongside the Ely Standard and other local media.

Social success

Orchard Park’s 24hr Plant-athon event attracted visits from local press, but was also involved in the first ever live stream on Facebook with additional vlogs, one of which was a record breaker for the Garden Re-Leaf page, reaching 714 people with 106 engagements.  Over on Twitter, the number of individuals that saw the #gardenreleaf hashtag was an incredible 100 times that of the year before, with 267,490 reached during the week of the event.  Gardening celebrities supported Garden Re-Leaf Day too; Greenfingers Charity Patron Ann-Marie Powell along with David Domoney, Richard Jackson and Michael Perry also helped to drive social activity amongst their followers and promote the event to a wider audience.

Linda adds: “We are delighted that once again that so many garden centres, suppliers and organisations took part this year.  It isn’t always easy to put on events like these, but we hope that the business benefits of getting involved in Garden Re-Leaf Day have been realised by all those who took part and that, coupled with raising money to make a difference to life-limited children, and their families who spend time in hospices will be reason enough to see everyone return next year for more fun and FUNdraising.”

Fife garden centre purchased and refurbished


Caulders Garden Centres have expanded their business into Fife with the purchase of Cupar Garden Centre, and having secured over £1million in funding from Clydesdale Bank they've made considerable refurbishments to their fifth store...



Caulders Garden Centres have expanded their business into Fife with the purchase of Cupar Garden Centre, which is expected to boost the local economy.

Having secured over £1million in funding from Clydesdale Bank, Caulders Garden Centres have been able to acquire their fifth garden centre and make considerable refurbishments.

The new Caulders Cupar Garden Garden Centre will initially employ 16 members of staff, rising to 30 by the summer of 2017. The business employs over 150 members of staff across their five garden centres in Scotland.

The refurbished centre is set to increase visitors to Cupar and in turn drive the area’s economy, alongside a large residential development taking place in the area.

The business is owned and managed by husband and wife team Colin and Amanda Barrie, who opened their first garden centre in Mugdock in 1999.

Jim Wales, Relationship Manager, Commercial at Clydesdale Bank, said: “We’ve been working with Mr. and Mrs. Barrie for over 14 years, so it’s been wonderful to see them progress into becoming one of the largest independently-owned garden centre businesses in Scotland.

"We were delighted to be able to provide 100% of the funding required, as we are always keen to support businesses looking to purchase new premises.”

Colin Barrie, A Caulder & Co Limited, said: “With the continued support of the Clydesdale Bank, we are delighted to grow our business.

"The purchase of Cupar Garden Centre gives us a great opportunity to develop and relaunch a fantastic garden centre in north east Fife.

"We are excited about the development and look forward to becoming part of the community. Caulders is very much an independent family business.”
Grange expands Ultimate range following 2016 success
GTN Xtra Promotion


Offering an exciting new approach to the traditional lap panel design, Grange’s revolutionary Ultimate Panel stormed into the fencing market last year, securing over 800 stockists in the process. With the panel’s success showing no signs of slowing down, the company has now expanded the range to include a comprehensive choice of panel sizes as well as the matching Ultimate Gate, providing retailers with a complete fencing collection...



Offering an exciting new approach to the traditional lap panel design, Grange’s revolutionary Ultimate Panel stormed into the fencing market last year, securing over 800 stockists in the process.

With the panel’s success showing no signs of slowing down, the company has now expanded the range to include a comprehensive choice of panel sizes as well as the matching Ultimate Gate, providing retailers with a complete fencing collection.

Manufactured using a number of first to the market design-led features, the Ultimate range offers the highest levels of both functionality and aesthetics.

Fine sawn, straight cut slats give a smooth-to-the-touch, luxurious finish and the neat, 40mm rebated frame provides a substantial framework for long-lasting quality.

What’s more, the Ultimate Panel and gate have been constructed using mortise and tenon joints for enhanced stability, resulting in one of the strongest, most durable panel and gate range on the market.

Alongside these architectural innovations, the Ultimate Panel comes complete with a revolutionized packaging design. Distributed in packs of 18, the panels sit upright on sturdy timber box pallets and are secured by 12mm bands which can be removed in batches of six, allowing for secure transportation and easy storage.

The newly expanded collection now includes four different panel heights, ranging from 90cm X 183cm to 180cm X 183cm as well as a matching gate and is available pressure treated Green for better protection against wood rot and decay.

Complete with merchandising materials including an Ultimate range product brochure, step display unit and mini counter top display panel, the collection is well supported on the shop floor, enabling retailers to maximise sales opportunities.

With SRPs starting at £22.99, the Ultimate Range offers an affordable, long lasting alternative to traditional fencing options.

To find out more, visit www.grangefen.co.uk. Retailers interested in working with Grange should call the company on 01952588088 or email sales@grangefen.co.uk
HSBC supports acquisition of Eastleigh garden centre


The former Arturi Garden Centre in Eastleigh has been acquired by the owners of the on-site Orangery Tea Rooms with the support of a five-figure finance package from HSBC...



The former Arturi Garden Centre in Eastleigh has been acquired by the owners of the on-site Orangery Tea Rooms with the support of a five-figure finance package from HSBC.

Now known as The Garden Society, the garden centre was snapped up by business partners Samuel Baker and Aaron Duck after its previous owners retired. The duo had been operating the tea rooms at the centre for the past eight years before the opportunity to acquire the wider business arose.

The whole operation currently employs 34 people, though Sam and Aaron have plans to significantly increase its workforce over the next six to twelve months.

Samuel Baker, co-owner and director of The Garden Society, said: “HSBC has been a great support to Aaron and me over the years, and this latest venture is no exception. The funding options have allowed us to develop our new business to a high standard whilst ensuring the costs are affordable and realistic.

"HSBC’s support has helped us reduce costs, improve profitability and introduce us to local suppliers and providers that have all served to support our business."

Nigel B Davis, HSBC’s Regional Director for the Western & Wales region, commented: “Sam and Aaron are ambitious businessmen who approached HSBC with a clear strategy for the growth of their new venture.

"We worked closely with them in the months leading up to the acquisition to put together a finance package that best supported their plans and we’re already in talks about how we can fund the next phase of this exciting development.

"We look forward to seeing the business grow and continuing our relationship with Sam and Aaron.”

The business partners now operate the whole site, which includes the garden centre, the aquatic and reptile centre, the Orangery Tea Rooms and the farm store.

They also rent additional space to concessionary businesses which offer landscaping, artificial grass and conservatories.
Keter to take over Stewart Plastics
Keter Group BV, a leading global supplier of resin consumer products for the home and garden, said last week it had agreed to acquire Stewart Plastics...

Keter Group BV, a leading global supplier of resin consumer products for the home and garden, said last week it had agreed to acquire Stewart Plastics.

The acquisition supports the UK’s continued growth strategy and brings together two complementary product portfolios.

Keter, which operates in more than 90 countries, specialises in a broad portfolio of resin consumer products including sheds and storage boxes, furniture, tool and hardware storage and home solutions.

Bsanburuy-based Stewart, a UK brand leader in the grow-your-own and decorative planters categories as well as a leading supplier of professional catering products to commercial kitchens, food retail and hospitality sectors, has 70 years of brand and manufacturing heritage. Stewart products are present in more than 1,600 outlets across the UK.

Lee Mellor, head of Europe at Keter, said: “As a combined company, we will have the resources and capability to provide our customers with an unmatched offer, consisting of an innovative product portfolio, a stable of enviable market leading brands, and a service promise that will be strengthened by our extended manufacturing footprint and enhanced supply chain capabilities into the garden centre channel’ comments.”

Stewart’s MD Andy Burns added: “We are excited to become a part of the highly respected Keter organisation, it creates significant growth opportunities for Stewart. Together, we have the capability to accelerate our market leading presence in our core garden and catering categories through greater product innovation and access to resources that come from being a part of a global organisation”.

Both businesses will continue to be managed by their current leadership teams.

Great start to the season...or is it a false dawn?


A combination of Garden Re-Leaf day and reasonable weather saw total sales in garden centres almost reach the high spot of 2014 for the third week of March...



A combination of Garden Re-Leaf day and reasonable weather saw total sales in garden centres almost reach the high spot of 2014 for the third week of March. 

Unfortunately, in 2014 that was a false dawn as the weather then turned bad and sales didn’t grow above those levels for another four weeks.  

With Mother’s Day this weekend and the weather forecast looking promising, perhaps we will have the model start to the season with continued week on week growth through to Easter.

What are your thoughts on the season ahead? Have you noticed any downturns in sales as a result of pricing post the Brexit currency issues? 

Do let us know, we can report on volume sales via GTN Bestsellers so it would be good to know how sales values are performing. E-mail: trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year...
  • Garden Products - up 27%
  • Veg-2-Gro - up 71%
  • Growing Media - up 43%
  • All Items Index - up 15%
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
 
Selfie saves Norwich garden centre owners from Westminster carnage
Greatest Awards winning garden centre owners James Debbage and Michelle Evans came within minutes of being involved in the Westminster terrorist attack last week.  "Stopping to take this "selfie" quite possibly saved them from being near that car at the very moment it hit the wall!" James told GTN Xtra...

Greatest Awards winning garden centre owners James Debbage and Michelle Evans came within minutes of being involved in the Westminster terrorist attack last week.  "Stopping to take this "selfie" quite possibly saved them from being near that car at the very moment it hit the wall!" James told GTN Xtra.

The couple had been visiting London having been crowned the East of England Champion in the Countryside Alliance "Rural Oscar Awards" for the "Farm Enterprise" category to attend the awards celebration at the House of Lords when the National Winners were announced.



James explained "We weren't lucky enough to win the National Award but we are still more than happy to have won what we did, we do have a certificate and aprons as regional champions.

They have since been on local TV and the Eastern Daily Press ran the following report:

James Debbage and Michelle Evans, who run Green Pastures, spoke of their shock as they heard gunshots ring out while walking outside of the Palace of Westminster and told to run by nearby police officers.

They had been presented with an award at the House of Lords and as they were leaving they “heard shots just a few yards ahead”.

Mr Debbage said: “A policeman turned to us and yelled at the top of his voice, “run, run away”. There were people in front of us who turned and fled. There was another policeman on one of the turnstiles into Westminster who told us to come in as it was safe.

“Before we knew it we were standing in the cloakroom of the House of Lords.

“We were locked in and we could hear lots of shouting outside. A lady came to us who turned out to be Shami Chakrabarti, who told us to come with her, and she actually took us to where all the Lords were. We got to talking to one person who said they had seen a body fall from the bridge into the river. “As we were there in a courtyard outside there were armed police yelling at someone to gets their arms up just underneath where we were standing. That was about half an hour after the shooting.

“My wife has been quite shaken up by the whole thing and she just wants to get home to the kids. “There was just complete carnage around. When we went into Westminster Hall there was an ambulance outside with all sorts of litter around it from treating people.”

The pair were taken into Westminster Abbey for their safety as police secured the scene. “The thing that stood out in my mind was the number of armed police,” added Mr Debbage. “There was an unbelievable amount of them.”

http://www.edp24.co.uk

Newshound finds Mr M has been busy recruiting 'experience'...






Woof woof! No time to ‘paws’ for thought this week, my friends, as the pace quickens at Dobbies now that Mr Marshall is getting into his stride...
 

Woof woof! No time to ‘paws’ for thought this week, my friends, as the pace quickens at Dobbies now that Mr Marshall is getting into his stride.

Didn’t take him long, mind you. By all accounts, just two weeks in and he had already recruited a dozen senior staff…and some of them will be names you know from Mr M’s last spell in charge at Wyevale/The Garden Centre Group, before the new brooms from Terra Firma got sweeping.

Among those reported to have joined Mr M at Dobbies in his quest for experienced personnel is the former head of restaurants at Wyevale, Costas Constantinou, who will take on a similar role.

Then there’s Andrew West, who, some of you may recall, was head of home and garden at The Garden Centre Group, then joined Hillier garden centres as head of purchasing. He will now be Dobbies purchasing director, apparently.

Lorrie Robertson is reported to be back, too – as chief operating officer, a role she performed as acting CO back then.

Marcus Eyles, who once worked with Mr M at Country Gardens before building up his Garden Store group and selling it to Hillview, is said to be taking over Dobbies online operation.

The developer of The Garden Centre Group’s much-admired staff e-learning project, has also been recruited, apparently to do something similar for Dobbies.

‘Sources’ (a word the President of the US of A hates, I hear) say there are more appointments to come.

Looks like the HR department at Lasswade is going to be pretty busy…

Until the next time, woof….and woof again.

GIMA announces new Council at AGM


The GIMA Council has been reduced from 16 to 12 members at the 2017 AGM, enabling a smaller but more accountable council of representatives to move the association forward...



The Garden Industry Manufacturers’ Association’s AGM took place on 23rd March at Horticulture House, Oxfordshire with over 80 members in attendance.

During the proceedings Chris Ramsden of Hozelock was re-elected as GIMA President for another year, as was Richard Pyrah of Kelkay as Vice President.  Kate Ebbens of Cadix remains in the role of Honorary Secretary and Nigel Thompson of Nigel Thompson Associates (representing Stewarts) retains the role of Honorary Treasurer.

It was agreed at the 2016 AGM that the GIMA Council would be reduced from 16 to 12 at the 2017 AGM, enabling a smaller but more accountable council of representatives to move the association forward. The rest of the GIMA Council for 2017/18 is made up of the following:

  • Matt Jackson, Briers Ltd
  • David Carey, Mr. Fothergill’s Seeds Ltd
  • Chris Holloway, Thompson & Morgan
  • John Gomersall, Forest Garden
  • Mark Butler, Town & Country
  • Simon McArdle, Westland Horticulture
  • Heather Culpan, Burgon & Ball
  • Craig Hall, Deco Pak

During his address, GIMA President Chris Ramsden of Hozelock said: “GIMA continues to work tirelessly for its members.  They are the reason we exist and we will continue to develop our membership benefits around them.’” He thanked the GIMA members for their support and encouragement and also the GIMA Council & Hozelock for their support during 2016.  Chris continued: “I look forward to working with Vicky & the team towards GIMA’s goals in 2017.”

The Association also reported a strong financial position with a healthy operating profit being recorded.

GIMA membership continues to grow steadily, with a net growth of 3% being recorded in 2016 and plans to grow again in 2017.

New full members to GIMA include Aigle International, Ailsa Wood Products, Corona Tools, Coleman, Durston Garden Products, Future Thinking Retail, Onduline Building Products, Pantharella, Pots of Distinction, PondExpert, Rollins Bulldog Tools, Teleview Marketing, TopBuxus Growing Solutions, Unipet International, Urban10 Essentials, VivaGreen, Wagner Systems GmbH, Wilma’s Lawn & Garden Ltd, Fargro, Garden Pride Marketing, Ecoegg, Wilstone and Select IP.  Cedar Associates has also joined GIMA as a new Associate Member.

Membership of GIMA is open to all manufacturers and suppliers of products to the garden retail sector, with a UK or European base.

For further information about GIMA and the benefits membership brings visit www.gima.org.uk or contact the GIMA office on 01959 564947 or email info@gima.org.uk

Whitehall Woodborough re-opens after re-fit in time for Mothers Day


Five weeks after acquiring the site at Woodborough, Whitehall Garden Centres have completed their re-fit and the centre re-opened on Thursday 23rd March...



Five weeks after acquiring the site at Woodborough, Whitehall Garden Centres have completed their re-fit and the centre re-opened on Thursday 23rd March.



Managing Director Peter Self told GTN Xtra: "we re-opened on Thursday and have had a great response so far, lots of positive comments and the car park has been full.



"We have been running a free Pick Your Own Daffodil event for Mothering Sunday and are sold out for Sunday lunches for today.

"A great start for our new Centre."


Glee and the HTA confirm new three-year agreement


The organisers of Glee, Ascential Events, have announced that the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has confirmed its ongoing support of the show, with a new three-year agreement...



The organisers of Glee, Ascential Events, have announced that the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has confirmed its ongoing support of the show, with a new three-year agreement. 

This renewed partnership will see the HTA share its industry leading knowledge and insight to help add even more value to Glee, providing benefits for visitors and exhibitors alike until 2019.

As one of Glee’s supporting trade associations, the HTA brings a lot to the table. In addition to providing its leading market-reports and data to the team throughout the year, the HTA also works in conjunction to develop Glee’s seminar content each year. 

This year, this relationship will develop further as the trade association works with Glee to develop the show’s new Retail Lab, which will focus on the retail environment of the future.

Matthew Mein, Glee’s Event Director said: “We are delighted to announce that the HTA has confirmed its support for the long-term future of Glee.

"The expertise that they, as an association, can bring to the show is invaluable and will help us to further develop Glee’s role as the key annual event for the garden industry.

"Glee has gone through a number of changes in recent years, with some more exciting developments on the horizon, and having the HTA’s continued support has been vital in many aspects of this ongoing development. 

"I believe having the HTA by our side for the next three years will enable us to further strengthen Glee’s long-term future as the unrivalled annual platform for the garden industry to meet, do business, share retailing best practice and address the key issues that are facing us all.”  

This new three-year agreement will see Glee and the HTA work closely together to mutually share and develop ideas that will benefit both Glee’s audience and the HTA’s retailer and supplier members.  From improved access and support around attending Glee, to increased visibility at the show, this renewed partnership will add value for all concerned.

Martin Simmons, Director of Operations at the HTA said: “We are delighted to confirm the long-term continuation of an already strong partnership with Glee’s organisers.

"Glee remains the foremost UK trade event for manufacturers and suppliers of garden goods and equipment, and as such we felt it was vital to ensure that the HTA and its members maintains a close working relationship with the show.

"I look forward to working with the team over the coming years, to build a bigger, brighter future for Glee and our members.”

Find out more

To find out more about Glee, or any of the HTA related features at the 2017 show please visit www.gleebirmingham.com, or call the Glee team on 0203 033 2160.
 
Overseas buyers ready to do business with UK suppliers
Gardenex staged another of its highly successful ’Meet the International Buyers’ events at its headquarters in Brasted, Kent, and the early indications are that it will result in new export orders for many of the 20 British suppliers that attended...



Gardenex staged another of its highly successful ’Meet the International Buyers’ events at its headquarters in Brasted, Kent, and the early indications are that it will result in new export orders for many of the 20 British suppliers that attended. 

Other UK companies could also benefit from the event, as their products attracted interest from the buyers from Dubai, Norway and Sweden during the Gardenex-organised tour of garden retail outlets prior to the main business meetings.

The Norwegian online retailer buyer, Henrik Haukelidsæter of Tilboligen, who held one-to-one meetings with several UK suppliers, stated that he expected to do business with more than half of the companies he had met.

A similar reaction came from Jean-Charles Hameau from Green Chapter, a Dubai online garden company and distributor who stated that he was expecting to do business with several of the companies that he met during a very full day of meetings.  

As an added bonus, Gardenex managed to arrange a last minute meeting with a supplier whose products had attracted the buyer during the retail tour the previous afternoon, and the federation has also provided links to three other suppliers whose products were identified of interest to the Dubai buyer.

The Swedish online retailer and wholesaler buyer, Lena Ljungquist from WEXTHUSET / Honey Pot Garden AB, reported that she had found the day extremely useful and expected to deal with at least four of the British companies she met, and that there was a possibility of future business with other suppliers.

All three buyers plan to follow up with visits to Glee in September and appreciated the chance to network and exchange knowledge with fellow international importers during the tour of three garden centres and also at the buyers’ dinner arranged by Gardenex.

The next ‘Meet the International Buyers’ events to be staged by Gardenex and its sister association PetQuip will be held at the Federation’s head office in June.  

Two garden buyers from German mail order/e-commerce retailers are already lined up for 7 June and a Canadian retailer/mail order company is attending on 20 June. 

Details of these and other international buyers that are keen to source products from UK suppliers of garden and pet products will be announced in the coming weeks.

To ensure that you don’t miss out on the opportunity to apply for 25 minute one-to-one meetings with any of the buyers on 7 June or 20 June, or to find out more about other Gardenex or PetQuip initiatives for both the garden and pet sectors, contact theresa@gardenex.com or emma@gardenex.com.

Garden leisure market grew 6% last year says new report
The UK domestic garden leisure market - which includes garden furniture, barbecues and accessories - grew by 6% in value terms in 2016, according to a new report by analysts AMA Research...

The UK domestic garden leisure market - which includes garden furniture, barbecues and accessories - grew by 6% in value terms in 2016, according to a new report by analysts AMA Research

They say the performance of the market has been linked to improving economic conditions in recent years, also underpinned by reasonable spring and summer weather overall. There has also been a trend towards higher priced items as people invest in their homes.

However, while significant change in expenditure on domestic garden leisure products is due to a combination of factors that include the economy, consumer disposable income and confidence levels, the impact of the weather on the garden leisure sector in any given year cannot be underestimated, particularly relevant around the time of major sporting events and Bank Holidays, which provide opportunities for socialising outdoors.

Garden furniture continues to account for the largest share in terms of value mix, although sales growth of more affordable accessories and easier to use barbecues has seen this share decline.



Metal garden furniture had the highest share by value in 2016, closely followed by wood, with plastic/resin (including rattan effect) estimated to be slightly lower. In recent years, metal and plastic have gained share at the expense of wood, but while the trend towards weather-resistant all-year-round materials continues, there has been some renewed interest in different types of hardwood.

“The barbecue market in 2016 has been characterised by an element of trading up to more sophisticated models within each fuel sector, but also the continuation of the trend for replacing charcoal with gas” comments Jane Tarver of AMAResearch. “Other characteristics include a better-informed customer base who are seeking product improvements and innovations for replacements, as well as the desire to use garden spaces for more regular outdoor dining and entertaining.”

The barbecue accessories sector includes barbecue fuel, domestic outdoor heaters, and other accessories such as tools, covers, cooking utensils, replacement parts, etc. The sector is dominated by fuel, which is estimated to account for over 60% value share.

Garden leisure products are primarily sourced and manufactured abroad with key source regions including the Far East, China and Eastern Europe. DIY multiples channel has the lion’s share of sales, with an estimated 44% in 2016. However, the growth of internet sales has been a key characteristic of the market in recent years with sales increasing for specialist e-tailers as well as other more traditional channels as omni-channel approaches are increasingly taken up.

Growth in the domestic garden leisure market is forecast to slow from 2016-17 onwards, with annual growth rates of 3-4% currently forecast to 2021. The domestic garden leisure market is mature, with high household penetration levels, and volume growth is likely to be moderate in the short to medium term. In addition, the UK is currently facing economic uncertainty over the short-medium term as the Brexit process begins.

The issue of increasing import prices is likely to be a key feature of the domestic garden leisure market into the medium-term due to the high levels of import penetration and this may result in a swing back towards cheaper replacement products for garden furniture, barbecues and accessories. Household incomes could also be squeezed due to inflationary pressures and uncertainties regarding job security and the wider economic environment may lead to the deferment of replacement garden leisure products.

However, the key determinant for the garden leisure market remains the British weather which can lead to wide annual variations in performance. AMA’s forecasts assume that conditions remain relatively benign, similar to previous years, with largely favourable weather in spring and summer when consumers make most use of outdoor equipment.

The ‘Domestic Garden Leisure Market Report - UK 2017-2021 Analysis’ report (price £745), can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

 

 
Partnership agreement between the Salon du Végétal fair, HTA National Plant Show and HTA Nursery Supply Show
The international trade fairs Salon du Végétal (France), HTA National Plant Show and HTA Nursery Supply Show (United Kingdom) are united to encourage international buyers to come to their events, the same week in June 2017...
The international trade fairs Salon du Végétal (France), HTA National Plant Show and HTA Nursery Supply Show (United Kingdom) are united to encourage international buyers to come to their events, the same week in June 2017.

The Salon du Végétal will take place from 20 to 22 June in Nantes, France. The HTA National Plant Show and HTA Nursery Supply Show will be held on June 20-21 in Stoneleigh Park, Coventry, UK.

This partnership will allow these three events to benefit from a much greater influence at European level. Through targeted communications, international buyers will be informed of the possibility for them to participate easily in these three events. Direct and indirect flights are offered daily between Nantes and Birmingham and a welcome at airports and lounges will be specially set up for foreign buyers.

More information on www.salon-du-vegetal.com, www.nationalplantshow.co.uk and www.nurserysupplyshow.co.uk.

The Salon du Végétal is the professional event in France for flowers and plants, gardening and landscaping. 500 exhibitors - 15,000 visitors. Approximately 1/3 of the exhibitors are foreigners and 600 foreign buyers come to the show each year from thirty countries.

Now in its eighth year, the HTA National Plant Show, will once again showcase the very best of British plant suppliers all under one roof. The Show offers a ‘back to basics’ approach, focusing purely on plants at the best time of year for retailers to plant their ranges for the following season. The HTA’s new exhibition, the HTA Nursery Supply Show, will be the premiere event in the UK to exhibit your products to nurseries and garden centres running alongside the HTA National Plant Show in Hall 2.

Running as a separate exhibition in Hall 3 at Stoneleigh the HTA Nursery Supply Show will give even more to visitors by both enabling them to buy plants, but to also look at the critical elements that support plant sales and nursery retailers. The premier UK buying event for Garden Retailers, Retail Nurseries and Growers.
Dutch Design in flowers at the Keukenhof opening


The 68th edition of Keukenhof has started. The official opening was dedicated to Dutch Design and the new entrance building. Over 100 varieties of tulip are already in bloom at the park. At Keukenhof, spring has truly begun...



The 68th edition of Keukenhof has started. The official opening was dedicated to Dutch Design and the new entrance building. Over 100 varieties of tulip are already in bloom at the park. At Keukenhof, spring has truly begun. Keukenhof is the place to enjoy the millions of flowering tulips, daffodils and other bulb flowers this spring.



Keukenhof’s theme for 2017 is ‘Dutch Design’. Dutch designers are globally esteemed for their ground-breaking ideas in the field of fashion, graphic design, architecture and furniture design. They inspired the theme for this Keukenhof season. Dutch Design has been incorporated into the bulb mosaic, one of the themed year’s highlights.

Furthermore, the flower shows at the Oranje Nassau Paviljoen are dedicated to Dutch Design. One of the inspirational gardens has also been given over to the theme, and fashion and furniture design inform the orchid and anthurium shows at the Beatrix Paviljoen.



After years of preparation, Keukenhof will be taking its new entrance building into operation. A beautiful design by the world renowned firm of architects Mecanoo from Delft.
The entrance building houses public functions such as box offices, the information desk and shops. The use of natural materials – wood, copper and brick lends the building its exceptional character.

Keukenhof continues to work to improve quality and service for its guests. “Today, after a long, cold winter we celebrate the start of a new spring with the opening of Keukenhof. In recent years, Keukenhof has undergone wonderful development. Visitor numbers are up. The park has become even more beautiful and now blooms from the first to the last day. And we have made substantial investments in improving facilities at the park,” says Siemerink, director Keukenhof.

Keukenhof is open to the public from now until 21 May 2017, by which time well over 1 million people will have visited the flower exhibition from all over the world.






 
Plantarea Supervior / Manager (Berkshire)
Salary: £18,000 - £23,000


Plantarea Supervior / Manager (ref:DS9190)


Location: Berkshire
Salary: £18,000 - £23,000
Date: 17 Mar
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent


Our client is a wonderful independent garden centre and nursery set within the grounds of a rural estate. This lovely centre has a large plantarea and café, along with a garden shop that offers customers a range of quality gifts and garden sundries. They are currently looking for a superb plants person to assist their Nursery Manager in running the Plant Centre. They are open minded and will look at Supervisory to Management level candidates for the role.

The Role

Will be to manage the plant centre on a day to day basis - ensuring plant stock is in tip top condition and merchandised to a high standard.
Buying of additional stock needed for the centre - liaising with suppliers on delivery etc.
Supervising staff and holding key holder responsibilities when senior managers are unavailable.

The Candidate

For this role candidates must have:
  • A proven track record in the industry along with good management and supervisory skills.
  • Excellent plant knowledge and a good background in horticultural retailing is a must for this role as they offer over 3 acres of quality plants from their own nursery as well as choice plants sourced from a variety of other suppliers.
Salary will be competitive and depend on experience and what you can bring to the role.

To apply for this role click here

 



Buyer Houseplants & Bulbs | Maternity cover (ref:DS9159)

Location: Berkshire
Salary: £35,000 - £45,000
Date: 16 Mar
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Interim


Do you have great horticultural retailing experience? Are you a capable buyer and negotiator and are looking for a new challenge in the industry? We are currently seeking an outstanding individual to step into a maternity cover role for a top garden retailer as Buyer of houseplants, bulbs and veg sets.

Ideally they are looking for someone with previous experience of buying for a multiple who can step into this role until November. The ideal candidate will have excellent previous experience and be able to hit the ground running.

To apply for this role click here

 


Horticultural Buyer Specimens and Shrubs (ref:DS9158)

Location: Berkshire
Salary: £35,000 - £45,000
Date: 16 Mar
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent

This Top Garden Retailer is currently seeking an exceptional individual with superb knowledge of the garden centre sector and a background in buying and procurement. They are looking for someone who can plan and purchase ranges of plants including specimen trees and shrubs for sale through their UK based centres.

Do you have a strong horticultural and retail background and experience in purchasing stock for the multiples?

Are looking for an exciting challenge within a large business that offers a great future and the chance to be at the forefront of horticultural retailing?

Are you driven, passionate and have a desire to make a name for yourself in the horticultural sector then please get in touch.

To apply for this role click here

 
Sales Exec Horticultural Packaging (Essex)
Salary: £20,000 - £30,000


Sales Exec Horticultural Packaging (ref:DS9181)

Location: Essex
Salary: £20,000 - £30,000
Date: 24 Mar
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent

This creative based horticultural company is seeking an Account Executive to work from their Essex based offices. You will assume responsibility for a range of accounts, ensuring the long-term success of these customers. You will also complete sales tasks in support of Strategic Accounts, working with Senior Account Managers to ensure everyone exceeds their service level commitments.

Based in the office, you will be responsible for developing relationships with your portfolio of assigned customers, working remotely with business executives, decision makers and stakeholders to meet their needs with solutions. By liaising with internal teams, you will use project management skills to ensure the timely and successful delivery of these solutions. Together with your colleagues you will have a positive and supportive approach and contribute to the development of a willing, respectful and creative team culture.

Key Responsibilities:
  • To operate as the lead point of contact for any and all matters specific to your customers.
  • Build and maintain strong, long-lasting customer relationships.
  • Develop a trusted advisor relationship with your account contacts and other stakeholders.
  • Ensure the timely and successful delivery of solutions according to customer needs and objectives.
  • To deliver sales performance in accordance with agreed business plans.
  • Communicate clearly the progress of monthly/quarterly initiatives to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Identify and grow opportunities within your portfolio of accounts, and collaborate with sales colleagues to ensure business growth.
  • Maintain the position of market leadership, and assist in the development of new business in both existing and new markets.
  • Develop detailed knowledge of customers and markets, and of the complete range of products and services.
  • To work positively with all teams, to help meet demanding customer requests and achieve deadlines.

Requirements for this role:
  • You will have 4+ years of experience of sales in an Account Manager/Executive role, within a design agency or print company.
  • You will be able to demonstrate an appetite for problem solving and the stamina to work to deadlines.
  • You will be a capable communicator, and an affective influencer at any level in an organisation, with a manner that is positive and supportive.
  • You will be good at listening, identifying customer needs and delivering focused solutions.
  • You will relish the challenge of a demanding role, able to manage multiple projects at a time while paying strict attention to detail.
  • You will go the extra-mile to ensure customers get an exceptional experience.
  • You will enjoy negotiating.
  • You will have good verbal and written communications skills.

Personality:
We look for the important characteristics in new members of our team - key values that define us. You will be positive, reliable, respectful, open, inspiring, trustworthy, professional, empathetic and friendly.
You will need to be self-motivated and we will expect you to be a keen contributor to the team effort. Being well organised is important to us.
We would like you to have an empathy with the world we thrive in; gardening, plants, and retailing. Together we will invest time in your personal professional development: learning about the company and their products and services, and identifying opportunities for performance improvement.

Personal Situation:
You will be able and willing to travel on your own as a part of your role, when the need arises, spending one (sometimes two) nights away at a time. On occasions you may travel abroad in support of our business activities and company events.
You will have a clean or near-clean driving licence.
Pool car will be provided when necessary.

Computer Skills:
You are adept at using MS Office, with particular emphasis on Excel and Word. Experience of ERP & CRM systems to support sales administration will also be important.

To apply for this role click here
 
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Plant feeds and lawncare dominate sales
As plant sales and growing media sales accelerate it’s no surprise to see garden product sales also hit new heights with core gardening products leading the way...
As plant sales and growing media sales accelerate it’s no surprise to see garden product sales also hit new heights with core gardening products leading the way.

Plant feeds and lawncare dominate with 10 of the Top 20, plus garden cleaning and pest control lines.

Garden lighting sales are on a par with last year, but positioned lower in the chart because of the uplift of core gardening sales.

Scotts Evergreen Complete Spreader Pack 100 sq m is the highest re-entry, and Town & Country Ladies Gloves 3 Pack Coral, Yellow, Sea Green the highest new entry.

Scotts Levington Tomorite moves to top spot.

To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
UK warning to Brussels on over-zealous approach to pest products
A stark warning has been issued to MEPs in Brussels against over-zealous and ill-considered banning of important pesticides...
A stark warning has been issued to MEPs in Brussels against over-zealous and ill-considered banning of important pesticides.

The European Parliament's Agriculture Committee heard the cautionary message from one of Britain's leading growers at a hearing on Sustainable Plant Protection

John Chinn, who is also Chairman of the UK's Centre for Applied Crop Science, was nominated by West Midlands Conservative MEP Anthea McIntyre to make a presentation in the Parliament.  

Mr Chinn said the EU was not performing well in its gauging of risk management when approving or banning plant protection products such as insecticides, herbicides and fungicides.

He told the hearing: "A failure to distinguish between hazard and risk is an essential part of the confusion about perceived threats from or to our environment; in general hazard identification is easy and often speculative; risk evaluation is generally complex and demanding.

"Rational responses are not invariable. There is an extraordinary disregard for well documented risks while others, of marginal significance, distort public and private spending decisions.

"These factors, coupled with a perverse preference for natural toxicity over synthetic safety, lead to an indifferent performance in risk management in the community."

After the hearing, Miss McIntyre said: "It was really good to hear from someone with a wealth of first hand experience, a detailed grasp of the subject and a great deal of common sense - a commodity often in short supply here! Mr Chinn was very polite and very scientifically precise in his language - but he made no secret of his low opinion of some large parts of the EU's performance in this area.

"His basic warning was that effective and low-risk products were being denied to farmers when using them would improve food security and benefit the environment. He concluded by telling the Committee that with new technologies we can achieve the twin goals of increased agricultural production and an enhanced environment.

"I was pleased that his message chimed so closely with my own recent report on Technological Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture which emphasised the need for innovation, new techniques and scientific advances to be adopted across all sectors of agriculture in order to feed a growing population without damaging the environment."
 
Young veg plants are a week ahead of schedule
Young veg plants are selling through – fast. This week’s GTN Bestsellers Veg-2-Gro chart sees young veg plants selling through one week earlier than last year and on a par with week 11 in 2014...
Young veg plants are selling through – fast. This week’s GTN Bestsellers Veg-2-Gro chart sees young veg plants selling through one week earlier than last year and on a par with week 11 in 2014.

After week 11 in 2014 there was a cold snap which held sales back towards the end of March. If sales over the next few weeks keep increasing we could be in for a bumper year of Veg-2-Gro.

The main highlights this week were:
  • Quantil Tomato Tumbling Red Tom 8cm was the highest re-entry, going straight to the top spot.
  • Quantil Tomato Sweet Aperitif 8.5cm was the highest new entry at No 44.
  • Quantil Strawberry Honeoye Strips was the highest climber, jumping 22 places to No 6.

To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
 
March growing media sales up 32% so far
Another week of record growing media sales volumes is recorded by GTN Bestsellers as gardeners get growing big time. The first three weeks of March are running at 32% up year on year...
Another week of record growing media sales volumes is recorded by GTN Bestsellers as gardeners get growing big time. The first three weeks of March are running at 32% up year on year.

With Mother’s Day to come and good weather forecast for the last two weeks you’ll need to make sure your growing media supplies are fully topped up and looking great to cope with sales demand.

This week’s highlights were:
  • Scotts Levington Ericaeous Compost (56 litres) was the highest climber, moving up 22 places to No 19.
  • Scotts Levington Multipurpose Compost (56 litres) was the highest re-entry at No 33.
  • Kelkay Alpine Grit 25kg was the highest new entry.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
 
spoga+gafa 2017: Excellent number of bookings
There are still around six months to go before spoga+gafa 2017 opens its doors, but it is already becoming apparent that the garden industry will almost be completely represented in Cologne from 3 to 5 September...
There are still around six months to go before spoga+gafa 2017 opens its doors, but it is already becoming apparent that the garden industry will almost be completely represented in Cologne from 3 to 5 September.

The early bird campaign already closed with record results on 28 October 2016. Now, a good six months before the opening of the fair, it remains on course for success: 94 percent of the planned surface is already booked. As such, the "half-time result" has achieved a 10 percent increase compared to the same period in the previous year.

Furthermore, with registrations from 50 countries, spoga+gafa is also underlining its position as the leading international garden trade fair.

Trade visitors from all over the world can thus look forward to the entire garden world in Cologne again from 3 to 5 September 2017. All four segments, 'garden living', 'garden creation & care', 'garden bbq' and 'garden unique', are not only represented in high numbers, the quality of the exhibitors is also already very impressive.

In the traditionally largest product segment, garden living, among others the following companies will present their new products: Deroma, edelman, elho, emsa, 4 Seasons, Hartman, Keter, Koopman International, Lechuza, MWH, Müsing and Scheurich.

Among others, the following exhibitors will be supporting the garden creation & care section with their products for the design and care of gardens, i.e. tools, garden machinery and further accessories: Biohort, Birchmeier, BM-Massivholz, Briggs & Stratton, Felco, FITT, Freund Victoria, Hozelock, Mesto and Stiga.

Of course, when addressing the theme garden, 'living green' certainly can't be missing: Comprising of among others Fleuroselect, Heidezüchtung Kurt Kramer, the Landgard Plants Ordering Days, Selecta One and zu Jeddeloh, there is going to be a comprehensive offer for the plant buyers at spoga+gafa 2017 too.

The largest coherent range of grill and BBQ products worldwide will also be available at the international garden fair in Cologne this year: The product segment garden bbq already boasts a strong alignment, represented among others by barbecook, Beef Eater, Big Green Egg, Broil Chef, Cadac, Char-Broil, Campingaz, DKB Outdoorchef, Enders Colsman, Landmann, Napoleon, Onward, Rösle and Weber-Stephen.

Exclusive presentations of garden furniture and shade products will be the centre of attention of the garden unique section. Among others Cane.line, Glatz, Houe, jankurtz, Nardi, sieger, Tuvatextil, Zebra and Zumsteg have already reserved space in the premium section.

The entire garden world - and even more awaits the trade visitors at spoga+gafa 2017, because in addition to a strong range of exhibits, the top trend themes of the garden industry will be restaged and made tangible at the largest garden fair in the world: The visitors have plenty to look forward to!

The spoga+gafa 2017 is open to trade visitors on 3 and 4 September from 09:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. and on 5 September from 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. Further information is available at www.spogagafa.com.

The Garden Day 2017 is open to end-users and trade visitors on 2 and 3 September from 09:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. Further information is available at www.tagdesgartens-koeln.com.
Garden Press Event moves to the Business Design Centre in 2018
Bookings are now open for the Garden Press Event which in 2018 will take place on Wednesday 28 February 2018 at the Business Design Centre in the heart of Islington...
Bookings are now open for the Garden Press Event which in 2018 will take place on Wednesday 28 February 2018 at the Business Design Centre in the heart of Islington.

The event, owned by the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) and Garden Industry Manufacturers Association (GIMA), provides a unique opportunity for exhibitors to meet with journalists from a variety of media and update them on the latest products and themes for the season ahead. This year over 300 journalists attended.

The new venue offers many advantages with great transport links, high ceilings on all stands, better facilities, easier loading and unloading and a bright and fresh environment.

Many of this year’s exhibitors have signed up to attend already and are extremely excited by the opportunity that the new venue will provide.

From Tuesday 21 March HTA and GIMA members can benefit from a discounted stand rate and the opportunity to choose their favourite spot before the remaining space goes on general release on Tuesday 2 April.

To benefit from this discount and book your space contact Guy Burtenshaw on 01243 860600 or email guy@gardenpressevent.co.uk
 
Plant sales flourish
Early spring/winter flowering plants sales took their first downturn last week as all other plant sales increased week on week...
Early spring/winter flowering plants sales took their first downturn last week as all other plant sales increased week on week.

Despite that, Primulas remained the most popular plant purchase, outselling Violas by 3:1. 

Of the young plants, bedding geraniums moved up to No 3 and Sweet Peas (Lathyrus) moved up to No 5.
  • Highest re-entry this week are Prunus as cherry trees come into blossom.
  • Lithodora is the highest new entry to the chart, spreading its way to No 31.
  • Climbing 21 places up to No 26 are Clematis.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
 
Introducing the Retail Lab @ Glee, in association with the HTA
As preparations get underway for Glee 2017, the show’s organisers – Ascential Events – has teased details of its latest show feature – the Retail Lab @ Glee...
As preparations get underway for Glee 2017, the show’s organisers – Ascential Events – has teased details of its latest show feature – the Retail Lab @ Glee.

Set to the be the key focal point of the 2017 show, the Retail Lab @ Glee will be the show’s interactive hub full of inspiration and the latest trend information. Unlike any previous features at Glee, the Retail Lab will be future facing, providing visiting retailers with a long-term vision for their retail environments.

The Retail Lab @ Glee will be made a reality under the watchful eye of creative director, Romeo Sommers, of ByRomeo, and will be created in association with the HTA, international trend predictors, WGSN, Pleydell Smithyman, and Paula Parker.

Focussing on four key themes – Health & Wellbeing, Family, Community Engagement, and ‘Re-wilding’ – the Retail Lab @ Glee will deliver tangible advice that will enable retailers (and suppliers) to future-proof their businesses. The content – showcased as the ‘store of the future’, which will address the different ways to engage and inspire with core consumer groups – will also be supported by Glee’s popular seminar content.

Glee Event Director, Matthew Mein said: “The Retail Lab @ Glee has been created as we wanted to offer something that looks to the future of garden retailing. We’ll be focusing on trends that are within touching distance; trends that will directly affect consumer spending habits in the near future. The Retail Lab @ Glee will enable retailers to retail effectively, ensuring longevity of their existing customer base, whilst also engaging with new consumers for a profitable future.”

HTA Director of Operations, Martin Simmons commented: “This is an incredibly exciting project to be involved in. HTA is well-known for its work, via the Foresight Factory, in providing the industry with information about macro-trends that are likely to have an impact in the future, and so to be able to demonstrate what that might look like in the physical environment is both challenging and rewarding. It’s also been a thoroughly enjoyable experience and a privilege to work with people who are really passionate about our industry’s future.”   

Further details about the Retail Lab @ Glee will be revealed shortly.  To keep up-to-date on all the latest news from the show, including latest exhibitor sign-ups and additional feature content, visit www.gleebirmingham.com or for details on exhibiting at Glee 2017, call 0203 033 2160.
 
Flemish pavilion confirmed for Glee 2017
Keeping plants at the heart of the show, the organisers of Glee – Ascential Events – has announced the 2017 exhibition will be home to its very first Flemish growers pavilion...
Keeping plants at the heart of the show, the organisers of Glee – Ascential Events – has announced the 2017 exhibition will be home to its very first Flemish growers pavilion, thanks to the recent confirmation that VLAM, Flanders’ Agricultural Marketing Board, will be joining this year’s show.

Belgium ranks on the fifth place as European exporter of ornamental plant products, after the Netherlands, Denmark, Italy and France. Its showpieces include the azalea and the pot chrysanthemum, both of which will be out in force at Glee 2017. 

The Flemish Pavilion (Hall 20, stand H30) will be home to a host of top growers under the VLAM banner, all ready to showcase their industry leading horticultural products. Many of the Flemish brands will also join Glee’s Green Heart, to demonstrate merchandising best practice.

Marie Arnauts, Floriculture promotion manager at VLAM, said: “Glee came to our attention when a number of our exporters requested the opportunity to exhibit as a collective. We felt that the benefits of this would be really valuable to us as a group, but also for the individual companies.

"In total, there will be seven companies exhibiting under the VLAM umbrella at Glee 2017, offering everything from conifers, shrubs and bedding plants, to azalea, rhododendrons, chrysanthemums and hellebores.

"Some will also offer indoor plants, cut flowers and different types of young plants. Exciting new additions will also include the Helleborus VIV Collection, and 110cm Chrysanthemums.

"One VLAM exhibitor will also showcase some exciting new plant varieties including Pineberry (produces white strawberries that taste like pineapple), Framberry (produces strawberries that taste like raspberry) and Bubbleberry (produces pink strawberries that taste and smell like bubble gum). We are excited to be part of the show.”

Glee Event Director, Matthew Mein said: “I am so pleased to confirm VLAM’s presence at the show later this year.  Not only is the calibre of growers under the VLAM umbrella world-class, but together they will add some real value to Glee’s planteria offering.

“VLAM’s presence is also demonstrative of Glee’s ongoing value across an international platform. We want the show to provide a true showcase of the best that the garden retail industry has to offer, and this means pulling in inspiration from across the globe.

"We are excited to see what VLAM has to offer, and urge any retailers visiting the show to make the Flemish Pavilion a must-see part of their journey around the show.”
 
Johnsons Lawn Seed ‘Campaign for Quality’: Size matters
As part of its ongoing ‘campaign for quality’ Johnsons Lawn Seed is challenging retailers to question not just the quality of the product, but also the quantity of lawn seed that they receive in every box from their supplier...

As part of its ongoing ‘campaign for quality’ Johnsons Lawn Seed is challenging retailers to question not just the quality of the product, but also the quantity of lawn seed that they receive in every box from their supplier.

In a trend that started in our supermarkets and is now shaping much of the wider UK retail market, it has become apparent that many suppliers are reducing the overall content of their product.  Total weights are being reduced whilst packaging continues to increase in size to give the illusion of added value, however prices are remaining static.  This means that many retailers are being short-changed by this trend, with consumers also feeling the impact in their pocket as the value for money decreases.

Guy Jenkins from the UK’s largest grass seed producer, DLF – makers of the market-leading Johnsons Lawn Seed brand, said: “We are notoriously a nation that likes to feel as though we are getting more for our money, often making purchasing decisions based on added-extras or multi-buy deals.

"However, many lawn seed suppliers are using this against the consumer and retailer, as in many cases the product – both before and after promotion - still weighs less than it once did. As a result, consumers are going to feel short-changed when their purchase fails to go further than expected. 

"This then compounds the sense of dissatisfaction that they may also feel if they are unlucky enough to purchase the low-grade lawn seed blends that many suppliers are presently bringing to market. The knock-on effect to retailers will be a decreased consumer confidence, which will ultimately lead to fewer sales.”

Guy continues “Through talking with our retail customers – in particular one of the UK’s fastest growing retailers - it has come as no surprise that those which focus on looking after their customers by refusing to downsize quantities, and recognise that value for money and quality are not mutually exclusive, maintain higher levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty. I therefore urge retailers to work closely with their supply chain to ensure that quality and quantity expectations are maintained to ensure the long-term future of our business and industry reputation.”

All of Johnsons Lawn Seed products have been packaged so that each box services the increasing scale of the average lawn size, ranging from 10m2 to 200m2. The brand website – www.johnsonslawnseed.com - also features a special tool designed to help consumers calculate how much seed they need for either overseeding or new lawn creation. By answering three simple on-box questions, end-users are able to see exactly how much seed is required across Johnsons’ full product portfolio, meaning every single lawn seed and every penny spent is managed and delivers the best possible ROI.

To find out more about Johnsons Lawn Seed products visit www.johnsonslawnseed.com
 
Stewart Garden Schools Campaign grows by 75%
Stewart Garden’s Schools Campaign for 2017 is up and running. And it’s bigger than ever...

Stewart Garden’s Schools Campaign for 2017 is up and running. And it’s bigger than ever.

This year sees the fifth Stewart Garden Schools Campaign and 174 schools have signed up to take part. That’s up from just over 100 last year – an increase of around 75 per cent.

The Stewart Garden Schools Campaign 2017 is open to school pupils aged 6-11 years. It challenges schools and students to be creative with their Stewart Garden product kits, which are being sent out now. This year’s kit includes:
  • 2x 3" flower pot, multipack of 10
  • 2x 5" flower pot, multipack of 5
  • 2x traditional watering can 2ltr
  • 1x 52cm essentials unheated propagator
  • 1x scoop
  • 3x 20cm seed trays
  • an informative booklet with tips and to help to get started
The entries will be judged by Val Bourne a well-known garden writer, an ex-teacher and gardening grandmother. The winning school will receive £1,000 to spend at its local garden centre. Three runners up will each receive £100.

Nearly 500 schools across the UK have now participated in the Stewart Garden Schools Campaign since 2012. In 2015, the students at Cutcombe Church of England First School took first prize with its colourful display of vegetables presented in the Stewart Garden Corinthian Trough.

The students conducted science experiments and explored the process of photosynthesis to find out how to grow great plants. The produce then went on display at the 2015 Flower and Produce Show at Cutcombe Fete before being auctioned off to raise money for local charities.

Looking forward to this year’s campaign, Juan Pillay, marketing director at Stewart Garden, said: “Every year, we’re taken by surprise by how creative the UK’s primary school children are when it comes to growing produce and putting their learning into practice. With 174 schools taking part this year – more than ever before – we’re especially excited to see the entries this time round.”

Val said: “Engage your children and grandchildren in the garden and in the classroom. They are the next generation and gardening is akin to nurturing the planet.”
 
Pictures from the Greatest Christmas Gold-winning teams
Garden centre teams excelled with their Christmas displays and grottos in 2015. Below we reveal galleries from the gold-winning teams. Click on each garden centre to see their galleries...

Aylett Nurseries
Barton Grange
Bents Garden & Home
Brookside Kent
Castle Gardens
Chessington
Creative Gardens
Fryers (Blue Diamond)
Hayes Garden World
Mains of Drum
Pughs Radyr
Silverbirch
Walkers Nurseries

 
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 printed newsletter.

As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2014 as well as 2015 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period.

Access is by subscription only.  For £195.00 per year you and your team can have access to the most up-to-date gardening sales analysis that has already helped many UK garden centres increase their sales.  To subscribe call 01733 775700, e-mail karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

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

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

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

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

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

 
Get the GTN Bestsellers charts in full every week in the GTN Bestsellers newsletters delivered via the post for only £195.00.

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 £120m.

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

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

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

All the latest news from the world of garden centre catering

Commercial Kitchen unveils its initial exhibitor list for 2017


Commercial Kitchen has released an initial exhibitor list for its 2017 event. The UK’s only dedicated trade event for the entire commercial kitchen industry will return to the NEC Birmingham on 6-7 June, with 100 exhibiting companies showcasing the complete range of innovative equipment, devices and services required to run, refurbish or build a commercial kitchen...



Commercial Kitchen has released an initial exhibitor list for its 2017 event. The UK’s only dedicated trade event for the entire commercial kitchen industry will return to the NEC Birmingham on 6-7 June, with 100 exhibiting companies showcasing the complete range of innovative equipment, devices and services required to run, refurbish or build a commercial kitchen.

“The enthusiastic reception for the launch of Commercial Kitchen last year proved that there was a substantial demand across the foodservice and catering sector for one focused event that brought the whole dynamic catering equipment market together,” says group event director Chris Brazier.

“The kitchen is one of the most important investments any operator has to make, and Commercial Kitchen is the most comprehensive trade show of its kind, in this country.  This year’s senior equipment buyers can look forward to our most exciting line-up yet.  They’ll enjoy opportunities to experience first-hand, ground breaking new products and services from leading industry innovators.  Many of which won’t be exhibiting together at any other event in the UK this year.

“Being able to compare what’s on offer in the market from the best brands in one visit, and get advice and inspiration to ensure you make the best decisions for your business, whatever your size or need, is what makes Commercial Kitchen such an invaluable experience to its visitors.  It’s also what makes it such a unique proposition for its exhibitors,” he says.

Choosing to exhibit at Commercial Kitchen was a ‘no-brainer’, according to Carpigiani UK’s sales director Scott Duncan.  For them it’s an unmissable opportunity to reach the types of visitors that the show attracts.

“The feedback we received from speaking with other exhibitors, who attended the launch edition in 2016, was extremely positive.  Likewise, at various networking events and other trade shows, I was hearing great things about Commercial Kitchen!  Other sales directors working for equipment manufacturers were raving about the show and said it was not to be missed due to the quality of its visitors.  To get our equipment in-front of some of the industry’s key buyers is a no-brainer,” says Duncan.

Echoing the sentiments of many of their co-exhibitors in 2016, Unox UK’s Kate Brooman says: “Commercial Kitchen is exactly the kind of show our industry needed.  With the focus being purely on catering equipment it attracted high quality visitors and we found it to be extremely successful.  This year we are looking forward to more of the same with high quality visitors from all sectors of the foodservice industry.”

“At long last a trade show where the right companies are exhibiting and the right people are attending – really great,” says Patrick L Bray, MD of Regale Microwave Ovens.

The initial exhibitor list for Commercial Kitchen 2017 includes:


·         ACO Technologies

·         Adande Refrigeration

·         Aqua Cure

·         Aqua Mundus

·         Asian Restaurateur

·         Asrapport Dining Co

·         BBCS

·         Bensons Products

·         Bio-Circle Surface Technology

·         Boutique Hotelier

·         Brunner-Anliker AG

·         Calorex Heat Pumps

·         Care Home Professional

·         Carpigiani UK

·         Catering Equipment

·         Catering Insight

·         CED Fabrications

·         CEDA

·         China Manufacturing Solutions

·         Clifton Food Range

·         Comark Instruments

·         Commercial Catering Spares

·         Cuisinequip

·         E.A.I.S

·         Electrolux Professional

·         ETI

·         Extechnology

·         FCSI

·         Fermod

·         Fire and Ice

·         Foodservice Equipment Journal

·         Gamble Foodservice Solutions

·         Glen Dimplex Professional Appliances

·         Goodflo

·         Hoshizaki UK

·         Induced Energy

·         Interflow UK

·         ITP Promedia Publishing

·         Liebherr GB

·         Manitowoc Foodservice UK

·         MCS Technical Products

·         Multivac UK

·         Nayati

·         Nelson Catering Equipment

·         Oxford Hardware

·         Panasonic UK

·         Pro Auction

·         Purified Air

·         R H Hall Foodservice Solutions

·         Rational UK

·         Regale Microwave Ovens

·         Retigo

·         rexmartins

·         Robot-Coupe (UK)

·         Roller Grill UK

·         ScanBox

·         Space Group

·         Target Catering Equipment

·         Testo

·         TME Thermometers

·         True Food International

·         Univent Systems

·         Unox UK

·         Viessmann Refrigeration Systems

·         Wexiödisk AB

In the weeks since visitor registration opened, hundreds of leading equipment buyers, specifiers, distributors, and consultants from across the foodservice and hospitality sector have signalled their intent to attend.

Among them are representatives from Nando’s, EAT., Prezzo, Punch Taverns, Enterprise Inns, Greene King, Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Searcys, Marston’s, Mitchells & Butlers, Morrisons, AB Hotels, Hilton, Gala Leisure, Bourne Leisure, Merlin Entertainments, Sodexo, Revolution Bars Group, Warner Leisure Hotels, Cardiff Council, Star Pubs & Bars, Sainsbury’s, Debenhams, Alliance National, Brakes Catering Equipment, Bidvest Foodservice, ScoMac Catering Equipment, and Direct Kitchen Equipment, plus numerous universities, hospitals, local authorities and independent operators.

“As someone who wants the best equipment for our teams and customers, Commercial Kitchen 2016 was a good and very relevant show for me.  I look forward to attending again and watching this important event grow over the coming years,” says Dirk Wissmann, senior equipment buyer at Pret A Manger.

“I really enjoyed attending Commercial Kitchen.  The equipment and size of show was relevant to our business, with some great innovative pieces of equipment on display.  It was also a great opportunity to catch up with suppliers, friends and colleagues.  I look forward to being present at the 2017 show,” says Andy Gage, development chef at wagamama.

“The Commercial Kitchen show allows us to see and review up and coming innovation and market leaders in the industry.  This in turn enables us to drive our businesses forward with sustainable, ethical equipment propositions.  I’m looking forward to attending,” says Stephen Childs, buying and equipment coordinator – food division at Debenhams.

“It’s an amazing show and I’m sure it’s going to get bigger and bigger as the years go on.  The quality of the equipment here is phenomenal,” says celebrity chef and restauranteur Theo Randall.

Commercial Kitchen returns to the NEC Birmingham on 6-7 June.  Show features include a free two-day seminar programme, the Innovation Challenge Awards, and CEDA Design Gallery.

For further information, and to register to attend Commercial Kitchen, please visit www.commercialkitchenshow.co.uk and enter priority code CK10 (direct link: https://registration.n200.com/survey/3d80hw89gt3j0?actioncode=CK10).
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