The Garden Centre Association’s Barometer of Trade (BoT) results for July (2014) have revealed strong sales at member garden centres during the month.

The results out today, August 20, which are the only official GCA July trading figures to be released, show the year to date figure currently stands at 8.97% up.

Will Armitage, Chairman of the GCA, explained: “The hot weather experienced last month saw a slight decrease in sales in more traditional categories such as outdoor plants and garden sundries. However, many other categories saw increases including Catering which was up by 11.7%."

“Food hall/farm shop sales have also performed well throughout the year with the year to date figure standing at 5.09% up.”

The GCA BoT reports are compiled using actual sales figures and provide an up-to-date trading position statement. They are made available mid-month following the end of the prior month after all member garden centres have submitted their results.

The reports allow members to compare their trading positions with other centres.

Clare James, Director at Garsons Titchfield, said: “The good weather throughout July has meant increased customer numbers across the centre.

“In addition to this, our butchery counter has also brought in a number of new customers, who have then been tempted to purchase from our large range of chilled, frozen and grocery products.

“We have seen increased sales on meat pies, alcohol from a range of local suppliers and general grocery products, such as cold drinks and confectionary.”

 For further information, please call 0118 930 8918. Alternatively, please visit www.gca.org.uk, log on to www.facebook.com/pages/GardenCentreAssociation or follow the organisation on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GC_Association.