In This Issue
Kaemingk to open UK showroom
Spring Fair to be replaced by "Spring Fair @Home" on the Spring Fair website
Retail Equipment Limited acquire Greenkey Garden & Home
British Garden Centres open their 58th centre at Thatcham
Core gardening keeps sales ahead of last year
Garden centres in England and Scotland can stay open - now is the time to review Covid-19 safety
Industry committed to better collaboration on peat use
33% up – growing preparations for next year
HTA 'Keep Britain Blooming’ campaign wins national award
More plants sold in October already than last year
Hard landscaping sales to rise, according to GCA report
Indoor planting for a harmonious, calming aesthetic
Westland rolls out innovative new hosepipe technology
Darlac introduces new tools for 2021
Frank P Matthews growing ‘Orchards for Schools’
How retailers can capture a new generation of poinsettia customers this festive season
Internet garden market set to achieve 25% growth
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra
Pots continue to dominate garden product sales
Dobbies raises funds for Stroke Association
Christmas sales continues to grow
Plant Healthy E-learning modules launched
AIPH approves Euroflora 2021 in Genova
Garden Connect renews EFSA website
OHAS Grower Standard Version 4 launches
The best of last week's
Monty Don makes headlines slamming garden centres
HTA calls on Welsh government to review ‘non-essential retail’ ruling on garden centres
October gardening hits record levels
Dobbies launches new format store in Scotland’s capital
Steve Harper joins Southern Trident
Fordingbridge looks to expand polytunnel arm of business
Garden Centre Photo Tours
Haskins Snowhill re-opens after £15m re-vamp
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week
Buy your subscription to the GTN Bestsellers printed weekly newsletter
All the latest news from the world of pet products
Start-up firm Sniffe & Likkit shakes up petcare category
Armitage Pet Care sold to US firm
Pet start-ups set to grow after securing investment
Useful Links
Send to a Friend »
Subscribe »
Issue Archive »
Update your Profile »
Print All Articles »
Subscribe to RSS »
Visit Our Website »
Example of a Flyer »
Send us your news and great ideas

Contact us with your news.

Email trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk or call the GTN News team on 07973 504214


Kaemingk to open UK showroom

Great news for UK Christmas buyers, Kaemingk are opening a showroom in Solihull from 9th of January 2021...


Great news for UK Christmas buyers, Kaemingk are opening a showroom in Solihull from 9th of January 2021.

 

While restrictions on travel are in place and trade shows on hold, Kaemingk have made the decision to invest in Christmas showrooms in the UK and Germany to facilitate the best buying experience possible for Christmas 2021 from Kaemingk.

 

The UK showroom will be in the Platinum suite of the AIS Building in Solihull, taking up 2,000 square metres, which is three times the size of Kaemingk’s usual stand space at Spring Fair.

 

Kaemingk told GTN Xtra: “We want to go the extra mile to meet buyers needs when it comes to buying Christmas 2021.  With Christmas being so important to our customers we feel we need to offer them the best environment to plan their displays and ranges by bringing the Kaemingk experience to the UK.

 

“At Solihull we will use a similar set up to our showroom in Aalten. You will find a large offering in Lumineo lighting, Everlands trees wreaths & garlands, silk floristry, shatterproof & glass baubles and   figurines along with all our theme settings for 2021.

 

“Our project team is planning the build right now ensuring we can open on the 9th of January. They will also be making sure we create a safe working environment for our customers by implementing the Covid regulations.

 

“At Kaemingk we will launch our Christmas 2021 range on the 2nd of December. So, for those who can’t wait we are happy to take you around via a virtual showroom tour.”

 

With numbers having to be manged very carefully due to Covid guidelines, Kaemingk advises buyers to book their visit to the Solihull showroom as soon as possible. Their sales representatives will be in touch with their customers shortly.

 

 

Kaemingk is also very thankful for the support and professionalism of the AIS team! They have been a big help and they continue to assist where they can whilst set-up is about to start.

 

Covid-19 may have brought many challenges for all of us. What Kaemingk has learned throughout this process is that: “When it’s going to get tough, the Dutch get going”. They can’t wait to start working with their customers on an amazing Christmas 2021.

 

For now, Kaemingk hopes that Christmas remains in full swing for UK retailers.

 

Team Kaemingk UK & Ireland  https://www.kaemingk.com/en/

 

Spring Fair to be replaced by "Spring Fair @Home" on the Spring Fair website

 

Due to new UK government restrictions on the reopening of business conferences and exhibition halls, Spring Fair will no longer take place in February 2021...


Hyve Group, the organiser of Spring Fair, the UK’s leading destination for home and gift retail, together with the co-located Jewellery & Watch and Fashion (JWF) and Glee at Spring Fair announce today changes to the scheduled event in 2021.

 

Moda, the national footwear show, also organised by Hyve and planned to co-locate at Spring Fair 2021 also announce today changes to its scheduled 2021 event.

 

Due to new UK government restrictions on the reopening of business conferences and exhibition halls, Spring Fair will no longer take place in February 2021.

 

The next planned home, gift and fashion retail event will be Autumn Fair, together with Moda, at the NEC Birmingham on 5th-8th September 2021, while Spring Fair will return as an in-person event, 6th-10th February 2022.

 

Hyve and the team behind Spring Fair, JWF, Glee at Spring Fair and Moda are now working to deliver an enhanced virtual forum with product features and exclusive seminar content designed to educate and inform participants. More information on “Spring Fair @Home” will be available on the Spring Fair website, while “Fashion Together” can be found on the Moda website in due course.

 

Julie Driscoll, Managing Director – UK Retail says, “While it is regrettable that we won’t be able to meet in person at Spring Fair and Moda in February due to the new UK government rules, we are incredibly excited to host Spring Fair @Home and Fashion Together. Following the success of this year’s virtual forums, we’re looking forward to providing our clients and customers another touchpoint to be inspired and stay connected with the retail industry.”

 

Ian Taylor, Managing Director – NEC Group Conventions & Exhibitions, says: “We’re saddened to not be welcoming the retail community to the NEC for Spring Fair in February 2021, but are pleased to hear that retail professionals and suppliers will still have an opportunity to connect with each other in early 2021, albeit in a virtual environment with Spring Fair @Home. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the NEC in person for Autumn Fair and Moda in September 2021, with Spring Fair itself returning in February 2022.”

 

Sarah Ward, Chief Executive, The Giftware Association says, Spring Fair @Home will be a great networking opportunity for the industry and a chance for businesses to stay connected. I am delighted that we are able to host the Gift of the Year 2021 Awards with Spring Fair as part of the virtual forum.”

 

Will Jones, Chief Operating Officer, Bheta says, “Spring Fair is an important platform, not only for BHETA members but also for the retail industry in the UK. I am very much looking forward to continuing our support and working together for Spring Fair @Home, and into 2021.”

 

Spring Fair continues to provide exclusive webinars, industry news and product updates that keeps the home and gift retail community informed, connected and inspired on The Community hub.

 

Spring Fair is a global power brand with international reach. A definitive marketplace for the home and gift retail industry. Located in the centre of the UK, at the NEC in Birmingham, Spring Fair provides an easily accessible destination for retail professionals and suppliers to meet every February, at the very start of the buying season. Co-located with Jewellery & Watch and Fashion (JWF) and Glee at Spring Fair, Spring Fair is an all-encompassing show for retailers, designers, contractors, architects and interior decorators to come and find their next best-seller, gain insights into the newest product trends and connect with the retail community. Spring Fair is a brand of Hyve Group plc. http://www.springfair.com

 

Diverse, relevant and exciting, Autumn Fair is the marketplace of the season for the home and gift retail industry. Perfectly timed at the beginning of September, the event is a crucial shopping destination for buyers to prepare for the Golden Quarter, retail’s busiest and most profitable time of year in the lead up to Christmas and New Year. Autumn Fair is a brand of Hyve Group plc. http://www.autumnfair.com

 

Running twice a year alongside Spring Fair in February and Autumn Fair in September, this brand-new offering is where the most coveted contemporary jewellery and watches meet the newest, must-have fashion pieces including footwear, handbags, wallets, scarves and luggage. As a response to growing retail demands and consumer trends, JWF offers buyers a chance to diversify their offering and grow their business across two editions. JWF is a brand of Hyve Group plc. http://www.jewelleryandwatchbirmingham.com

 

Moda is the show the brings fashion to life. Hosted in Birmingham, the heart of the UK, Moda makes fashion accessible to everyone. Held bi-annually, in February and September, Moda offers a curated and comprehensive selection of womenswear, accessories and footwear, from both leading brands and exciting new names. Known as the National Footwear Show, Moda is the leading footwear trade show in the UK, offering the largest selection of women’s, men’s, and children’s footwear collections, as well as specialised podiatry brands. Not only does Moda grant you access to the latest collections, our exclusive live content brings visitors the latest market insights, trends and business advice for a successful season. https://www.moda-uk.co.uk/welcome

 

Glee at Spring Fair is a second touchpoint throughout the year for the gardening and outdoor living community to network and do business with new and existing buyers. Visitors who wouldn’t usually see garden-related products at Spring Fair can now discover the latest concepts and trends. From garden care to garden décor, Glee at Spring Fair showcases suppliers from Glee’s core show sectors including Landscaping and Garden Decoration, Garden Care, Plants and Outdoor Entertaining. Glee is a brand of Hyve Group plc. http://www.gleebirmingham.com/glee

 

Hyve Group plc is a next generation global events business whose purpose is to create unmissable events, where customers from all corners of the globe share extraordinary moments and shape industry innovation. Hyve Group plc was announced as the new brand name of ITE Group plc in September 2019, following its significant transformation under the Transformation and Growth (TAG) programme. Our vision is to create the world’s leading portfolio of content-driven, must-attend events delivering an outstanding experience and ROI for our customers. Where business is personal, where meetings move markets and where today’s leaders inspire tomorrow’s. http://hyve.group/Home

 
Retail Equipment Limited acquire Greenkey Garden & Home

Greenkey Garden & Home has been sold for an undisclosed sum to Retail Equipment Limited of Sudbury, Suffolk. Greenkey directors Jeremy and Emma Parkes will retire in six months time, allowing the opportunity for new management to further develop the business...


Greenkey Garden & Home has been sold for an undisclosed sum to Retail Equipment Limited of Sudbury, Suffolk.

 

Jeremy Parkes, Greenkey’s Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to find such a good fit for the business with like minded people, and understand that the business will continue for the foreseeable future at its existing premises with its current staff."

 

The Directors Jeremy and Emma Parkes will retire in six months time, allowing the opportunity for new management to further develop the business.

 

Retail Equipment’s Director Steve Newmark commented: “We’re pleased to acquire a vibrant business in an industry that affords much potential for growth.

 

"Greenkey is well placed to supply new innovative ideas to the garden products market and the two businesses have many operational synergies."

British Garden Centres open their 58th centre at Thatcham

Charles Stubbs, Lewis Fox and Nemanja Tintor, along with the rest of the BGC team, were proud as punch yesterday as their 58th centre at Thatcham in Berkshire opened...


See GTN Xtra's exclusive photo tour of the new centre

Charles Stubbs, Lewis Fox and Nemanja Tintor, along with the rest of the BGC team, were proud as punch yesterday as their 58th centre at Thatcham in Berkshire opened.

 

The centre had been handed back to the landlords during the Wyevale Garden Centres sale of the century in and closed in September 2019 as the owners looked for a new leaseholder.  British Garden Centres took on the site in September 2020 and since then have refreshed the centre, enclosing a walkway at the Restaurant end to allow for extra covers, extending the covered sales area out into the planteria and hard surfacing the overflow car parking area which was previously a field.

 

See GTN Xtra's exclusive photo tour of the new centre below:

 

 

Core gardening keeps sales ahead of last year
Exclusive GTN Bestsellers Epos data analysis

Garden centre volume sales took a bit of a dip last week but still ran at 5% ahead of last year. Core gardening activity didn’t seem to suffer though with growing media and plant sales volumes being 33% and 6% up on the same week last year.


 

Garden centre volume sales took a bit of a dip last week but still ran at 5% ahead of last year.

 

Core gardening activity didn’t seem to suffer though with growing media and plant sales volumes being 33% and 6% up on the same week last year.

 

Christmas sales were down 15% on last year, but some of that could be movements of half term weeks across the country.  We’ll have a better picture after this week.

 

Judging by the queues at garden centre restaurants we’ve seen this week choosing to dine out a gardening centre during half term week has certainly proved popular.

 

Hopefully all the good PR garden centres received back in April and May that led to the early re-opening stands us in good stead to remain open in England and Scotland, and back open in Wales, through until Christmas.

 

As we go to press we’ve just learned that the ‘Keep Britain Blooming’ campaign has won a major PR Award. Well done and thank you to all concerned.

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year: week 43

  • Garden Products Top 50 – down 1%
  • Growing Media Top 50 – up 33%
  • Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – up 64%
  • Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – up 2%
  • Christmas Top 50 – down 15%

 

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week last year: week 43

  • All Plants with Barcode index – up 6%
  • All Items with Barcode index – up 5%

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

Garden centres in England and Scotland can stay open - now is the time to review Covid-19 safety

Following news that garden centres in England and Scotland can remain open, HTA President Boyd Douglas-Davies, has called upon garden centres to work to the highest standards of Covid-19 safe policies and to review everything now before the month long lockdown in England begins or areas in Scotland move into Tier 4...


Following news that garden centres in England and Scotland can remain open, HTA President Boyd Douglas-Davies has called upon garden centres to work to the highest standards of Covid-19 safe policies and to review everything now before the month long lockdown in England begins or areas in Scotland move into Tier 4.

 

Boyd told GTN Xtra this morning: "I'm delighted that Westminster has recognised the beneficial part garden centres played in the initial lockdown. The provision of gardening and other products has allowed many millions of people to spend a more fruitful time at home than they would have done without us. This has played a significant part in our continued recognition as an essential sector.

 

"Throughout this difficult year the horticulture industry has behaved with great integrity and provided a safe environment for staff and customers alike. It is now, more than ever, really important that we continue to work to the highest standards and ensure that our covid safe policies are adhered to. Garden Centres should review everything now and prepare to be very busy over the next month.

 

The team at the HTA have been brilliant and I thank them all for working so hard on all our behalf. "

Last night James Clark, Director of Policy and Communications at the HTA said: “The announcement to keep garden centres open in England during lockdown is a huge relief and very welcome for members – not only garden centres, but for those in the supply chain. We have been making the case to the Government in England in the last few months and of course today on why garden centres should be classified as ‘essential’ retail in lockdown. Credit to those in Government for this massively significant decision.

 

"Garden centres offer an airy and open retail environment, providing one of the safest retail environments. It’s important for garden centres to continue to reassert the exemplar social distancing and safe trading measures they have put in place.

 

"Garden centres staying open will benefit everyone across the country bringing much needed mental and physical benefits as people have to stay at home. It brings some joy at Christmas in these very difficult times for our country. Our sector is an economic driver for the UK - this decision allows us to help the country out of any economic downturn.

 

"This announcement, alongside the decision in Scotland on Friday, will support our efforts in Wales to make sure garden centres are listed as ‘essential’ for any future lockdown decisions there."

 

Garden centres to be classed as ‘essential’ in Scottish Tier 4

The Scottish Government has confirmed that Scottish garden centres have been listed as ‘essential retail’ in the Health Protection (Coronavirus)(Restrictions and Requirements)(Local Levels)(Scotland) Regulations 20202 in the event of Tier 4 restrictions being introduced and therefore able to continue trading, with strict social distancing measures in place.

 

James Clark said: “This decision is hugely significant for the Scottish horticulture industry. It is the culmination of work by the HTA to highlight the importance of horticulture, bringing much needed confidence to the Scottish industry and gardeners across Scotland. It protects the industry and supports wellbeing during any future lockdowns. 

 

"We support the Government’s efforts to control and eliminate COVID. We have always said that the large airy and open infrastructure of garden centres, alongside implementing first class and tailored safe trading measures, provide one of the safest retail environments. Our members will continue to enact these robust and exemplar social distancing actions."

 
Industry committed to better collaboration on peat use

The horticulture industry and government have welcomed data that shows further decreases in the percentage of peat used in growing media, acknowledging its importance to the sector’s ability to deliver vital plants and trees into UK ornamental horticulture...


 

The horticulture industry and government have welcomed data that shows further decreases in the percentage of peat used in growing media, acknowledging its importance to the sector’s ability to deliver vital plants and trees into UK ornamental horticulture.   

 

For the first time since the data has been recorded, it shows the amount of peat contained in growing media is less than 50%. 

 

A new report shows that between 2015 and 2019 the amount of peat contained in growing media decreased from almost 53% to 41.5% in the consumer sector, with the professional sector showing a marginal reduction (63.9% to 62.9%). Overall, this represents a total reduction from 56% to 47% respectively.  

 

The Growing Media Monitor report provides the results of the 2020 study, funded by Growing Media Association (GMA)/Horticulture Trades Association (HTA), the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) and shows trends in the composition of UK growing media supplied 2011 to 2019.  

 

As a sector, horticulture is committed to working with government and others on finding responsible ways to achieve the mutual goals within the 25-year Environment Plan. Peat reduction is one aspect of this and a complex area which requires action on several fronts to make further progress.   

 

Chairman of the Growing Media Association, Neil Bragg, said: “The essential requirement for growing media within horticulture means that the industry fully understands the need to address issues around its composition and is committed to working with others to navigate the complexities of doing so. 

 

“Monitoring is only one aspect, alongside finding ways to promote responsibly sourced products to consumers and being part of the discussions about the pros and cons of the various peat alternatives. 

“Being part of the wider collaborative effort on this - manufacturers investing in innovative ways to change the formulation of growing media and retailers changing their buying policies, for example - have helped drive these encouraging developments in peat-use in the consumer sector and is what will ensure progress continues to be made.” 

 

Wayne Brough, Knowledge Exchange Manager at AHDB comments: “Continued access to high quality growing media is essential for the horticultural industry and AHDB, Defra and industry have invested over £1 million in a recently completed project to provide the necessary applied science to help underpin the development and management of alternative growing media. Over a period of five years, 100 commercial trials examined 213 different growing media blends and via a programme of 12 industry workshops built up the skills base essential for growers to effectively manage new growing media. Future regional events are planned to generate further confidence within the industry”. 

 

Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said, “I welcome this new data which shows the investment that the growing media manufacturers and retailers have made in peat replacements is starting to feed into the market.  

“We are absolutely committed to phasing out the use of peat in horticultural products in England and want this transition to be as seamless as possible for the industry.  

“We will continue to work with the industry to accelerate progress and will be setting out our proposals in our forthcoming England Peat Strategy.” 

 

Across the sector, stakeholders want to work together and with Government to take a responsible approach to making further changes. To help identify what action is required, the GMA/HTA commissioned independent academic research on the subject. 

Academics from the Research Centre for Business in Society at Coventry University made several recommendations for moving the industry forward in a report published last month. Their research reviewed the growing media industry, its sustainability, and analysed how the area needs to develop to become more sustainable. 

 

Alongside suggestions for industry around better labelling and information for consumers, the continued research into availability of alternatives, including within the composting sector and phasing out peat in the retail sector, the report calls for government support.   

 

Dr David Bek of Coventry University said: “It will be difficult for the growing media industry to continue its ongoing transition towards a peat-free future without shifts within the UK national policy framework. Wood-based growing media is currently rendered less competitive by the incentives available for using wood biomass for heat and power generation. Whilst green waste collection systems around the UK need to be harmonised to improve the quality and availability of green compost that is being produced. These are significant blockages which need to be tackled with some urgency.” 

 

Neil Bragg added: “The latest data from the monitor report combined with the recommendations of the team at Coventry University gives us an excellent insight into the areas where we need to focus. We will now be considering how to prioritise these different workstreams and which stakeholders are best placed to take things forward. 

 

“We’re in a good position for putting some of the necessary changes into place for the next season and will be aiming to see positive evidence of the impact this will have.”

33% up – growing preparations for next year

October growing media sales volumes have exceeded the month totals of the past three years despite there still being a week of sales to go...


October growing media sales volumes have exceeded the month totals of the past three years despite there still being a week of sales to go.

 

There’s a lot of project work and preparation for next year going on with two topsoil lines in the GTN Top 10 plus farmyard manure at No 3 and a peat free soil conditioner at No 7.

 

Growing media volumes for the week were up by 33% so even in a week when the weather wasn’t so good a third more gardening activity happened than last year.

 

Highlights of the week were:

  • Growth Technology Houseplant Focus Repotting Mix Peat Free 8 litres was the highest chart climber last week, up from No 29 to No 13 as houseplant activity continues to boom.
  • Westland Ericaceous Planting Potting Mix 10 litres was the highest re-entry at No 31.
  • Evergreen Garden Care Levington Multi Purpose with John Innes 40 litres stays as the No 1 volume line in the GTN Bestsellers Epos data.
  • Taylors Bulb Fibre 10 litres is steady at No 16. Last year it was at No 5 but October volumes so far are 28% up on last year.

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

HTA 'Keep Britain Blooming’ campaign wins national award

The HTA has been recognised by public relations and media professionals for its successful ‘Keep Britain Blooming’ campaign in the Spring to reopen garden centres from lockdown, by winning the prestigious PR Week Awards ‘best coronavirus crisis management’ award...


The HTA has been recognised by public relations and media professionals for its successful ‘Keep Britain Blooming’ campaign in the Spring to reopen garden centres from lockdown, by winning the prestigious PR Week Awards ‘best coronavirus crisis management’ award.

 

The industry’s ‘Keep Britain Blooming’ campaign generated national media coverage to highlight the crisis facing the industry as well as the nation’s wellbeing, while putting pressure on the UK Government and the devolved administrations to commit to reopening garden centres during the first phase of easing lockdown restrictions.

 

The HTA, supported by PR consultants the BIG Partnership, created a compelling narrative, using data, case studies and a wide range of spokespeople to highlight the impacts lockdown was having, increasing the profile of the UK ornamental horticulture industry. This resulted in coverage on BBC, Sky, leader articles in The Times, Telegraph as well as multiple regional and local media. Over 70 MPs, AMs, MSPs publicly backed the campaign.

 

Watch the PR Week Awards announcement below, the HTA win starts at 08:16.

 

 

The PR Week judges praised the campaign saying:

  • “It was measurable and strategic, with a real purpose at the heart.”
  • “Everyone saw this campaign! The stark reality of wasted plants and flowers hit the front pages and appealed to our hearts and minds. The use of case studies and famous people like Alan Titchmarsh kept story in the Tier 1 press and helped the key objective of the campaign - namely to open the centres.”
  • “This is an excellent campaign which reached not only its media KPIs but also persuaded the Government to change the lockdown rules as a priority for HTA - I'm still seeing great coverage of gardens and businesses which shows how impactful it was.”

Commenting on the award, James Clark, Director of Policy and Communications at the HTA said: “This award is great recognition of the huge work and effort put in by the whole industry to make this campaign so successful and realise £250m back in to the industry at such a crucial time of the year. Members answered our call to action, lobbying politicians, acting as spokespeople, sharing their stories, helping to show what the real impacts of lockdown was having on their businesses and their families. It’s a great example of how the industry pulled together in a time of crisis to illustrate why the industry matters to this country.

 

However, we need to continue to guard against going back to a March-style national lockdown where garden centres are closed for weeks and months on end. We are lobbying governments across the UK to ensure our members’ voices are heard and the economic and wellbeing benefits of the ornamental horticulture industry are recognised by policymakers.”

 

Boyd J Douglas-Davies, HTA President added: “The HTA team worked tirelessly during lockdown with and for the membership on this campaign. The success it achieved in getting centres open early was the ultimate reward and for the campaign to be recognised nationally is the cherry on the cake. I’d like to shake hands with each and everyone of the team but for now a socially distanced high five will have to do!!” 

 

More plants sold in October already than last year

In the first four weeks of October 2020 we’ve already seen more plants sold in the GTN Bestsellers Epos data than in the equivalent five-week period of the month last year...


 

In the first four weeks of October 2020 we’ve already seen more plants sold in the GTN Bestsellers Epos data than in the equivalent five-week period of the month last year.

 

If that doesn’t resonate that more people are gardening and buying plants, then what are we waiting for. Even last week, when the weather wasn’t so good and the clocks went back, plant sales were still up by 5% on the same week last year.

  • Cyclamen sales were steady, keeping them as the No 1 Bestselling plant for the third week in a row.
  • Calathea and Schlumbergera moved 19 and 16 places up the chart as people turned their attention to indoor gardening.
  • Late flowering Delphiniums sold well to make them the highest re-entry at No 35.
  • All Plants volume sales change: Week on week DOWN 18.3%.  Year to date vs 2019 DOWN 21.2%, vs  2018 DOWN 26.5%.

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

Hard landscaping sales to rise, according to GCA report

Gardeners across the country enhanced their outdoor spaces during September which led to a rise in sales in hard landscaping, according to the Garden Centre Association’s Barometer of Trade report. Compared with the same month in 2019, sales were up 72.37%.

 

Bernaville Nurseries in Devon saw September sales grow with hard landscaping and garden sundries selling particularly well.


Gardeners across the country enhanced their outdoor spaces during September which led to a rise in sales in hard landscaping, according to the Garden Centre Association’s Barometer of Trade report.

 

Compared with the same month in 2019, sales were up 72.37%.

 

Iain Wylie, GCA Chief Executive (left), explained: “Hard landscaping sales have been steady through the summer, but it was a surprise to see the category come out on top during September, especially with houseplants always being so popular.

 

“Home DIY has been huge since the pandemic and people have been decorating and fixing up their houses, so it’s no surprise that they have wanted to continue this trend and extend it to their outdoor spaces too. Many people have taken on the DIY approach and created outside sanctuaries for themselves, perfect for enjoying during any more potential lockdowns to come.”

 

Christmas was the next big seller during the month, with sales up 58.42%. Sales in garden sundries were up 54.46%, seed and bulb sales were up 49.37%, outdoor plant sales were up 43.02% and houseplant sales were up 47.62%.

 

Iain added: “Everyone is aiming to make Christmas bigger and better than ever and make it a day where we can all forget about the difficult year we’ve had. This means people are getting their shopping done earlier than normal just in case of future lockdowns not allowing them to get out before the festivities.”

 

Furniture and barbecue sales were up 2.58% and pets and aquatics sales were up 7.32%. 

 

Food hall and farm shop sales were up 23.08%, clothing was down -1.24% and catering was down -13.41%.

 

Overall sales for the month were up 21.18% with a year to date change of -12.34%. 

 

 

Tony Jackson, Partner at Bernaville Nurseries in Devon (pictured above), said: “September sales have seen continued growth across the garden centre with houseplants, spring bulbs, hard landscaping and garden sundries selling particularly well. Signs are looking promising for Christmas and gifts sales and clothing sales are beginning to pick up. Restaurant and cafe sales remain reduced due to limited seating capacity.”

 

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.

Indoor planting for a harmonious, calming aesthetic

Leading plant pot manufacturer, elho, recognises the importance of both house plants and colour now more than ever. As such, with its new 2021 collection, it has created a range of indoor plant pots to tap into this soft colour trend, to help people create homes that make them feel comfortable and at ease...


Our homes have become even more important this year as we have had to spend more time indoors than usual. Houses and flats have been turned into makeshift offices, schools and gyms, so it is no surprise that there is an ongoing trend of people wanting to bring the outdoors in.

 

Houseplants have allowed people with no access to outdoor space to surround themselves with greenery and nature, providing them with a much needed energy and positivity boost.

 

There is also a growing need for interiors to become friendly spaces with a comforting feeling and this is reflected in current design trends. Popular colour schemes consist of warm palettes of light and dark natural and pastel tones to help make people feel grounded. Even a quick browse through Instagram or an interior design magazine will illustrate the growing popularity of the use of colour, with ‘#BantheBeige’ regularly trending on social media.

 

Leading plant pot manufacturer, elho, recognises the importance of both house plants and colour now more than ever. As such, with its new 2021 collection, it has created a range of indoor plant pots to tap into this soft colour trend, to help people create homes that make them feel comfortable and at ease.

 

The new vibes range of indoor pots has an organic, textured finish, being ribbed both outside and in. The slightly rounded body and decorative pattern utilise natural and soft shapes to reflect the beauty of nature, creating a sense of calm. This is elevated by the use of four new soft shades – butter yellow, delicate pink, deep blue and silky white. The pots can be grouped together, one of each colour, to create a fashionable, eclectic look, or single pots can be used to create a subtle colour-pop against more neutral backdrops. Each of the colours helps to create a harmonious, friendly ambience however they are used, whilst being the perfect home for houseplants, which even have the option of including self-watering inserts.

 

The brussels diamond provides an alternative design element to interior house-planting. The sleekly designed, high quality flowerpot brings out the best in flowers and plants with its beautiful lustre giving it a sophisticated touch. It comes in a variety of colours including shimmering lilac, velvet violet and oyster pearl, so it can complement any interior style.

With nights drawing in, plants need to be given a helping hand to give them the best chance of survival over the winter months to help maintain their beauty. elho has this covered with the leaf light care which includes a unique 15h-cycle light to keep plants happy by providing the exact right amount of light, even in the darkest corners of the house. It even has an extendable stick that grows with the plant.

 

For more information visit www.elho.com

Westland rolls out innovative new hosepipe technology

Westland is launching Smartflo into the market, the first hose that ‘unkinks’ itself, reduces the risk of leaks and is built to last...


Westland is launching Smartflo into the market, the first hose that ‘unkinks’ itself, reduces the risk of leaks and is built to last.

 

A new product addition to the Flopro range for 2021, the Smartflo hose provides a solution to the two main challenges consumers face with traditional hoses – kinks and leaks.  

 

Made from thermo elastomer technology, the Smartflo hose is flat when not in use but expands as water flows through it. This expandable material allows the hose to effectively remove kinks by itself as water passes through. It also minimises the amount of water left within the hose as it decompresses after use, removing the risk of leaks and internal damage. 

 

Marloes Rots, Flopro Brand Manager, said, “Consumers are often frustrated by garden hoses that develop kinks, leaks or break easily. Available in 20m, 30m and 40m, the Smartflo hose breaks new ground in hosepipe technology given its ability to expand and deflate - and is so durable that we offer a 30-year guarantee with the product. 

 

“We focus on providing the most effective solutions to problems and enhancing the consumer experience of gardening at every level. Flopro is making a difference in the watering category for 2021 by showing consumers the right way to water for better garden results.

“Alongside the new Smartflo hose, Westland has enhanced a number of lines within the Flopro range across hosepipes, spray guns, connectors and sprinklers. 

 

“We guarantee that our Flopro products work with all watering brands and are anti-leak – making upgrading to Flopro a simple and valuable decision for consumers. With impactful point of sale fixtures and graphics developed to support the range, Flopro is set to create a true splash of impact in-store in 2021,” Marloes Rots added. 

 
Darlac introduces new tools for 2021

 

Darlac, the cutting tools expert, has introduced several new products for the 2021 season aiming to build on its already successful ranges...


Darlac, the cutting tools expert, has introduced several new products for the 2021 season aiming to build on its already successful ranges.

 


The new Expert Titanium Bypass Pruner is going to appeal to the very keen hobby gardener and landscaper. The SK5 carbon steel blade is titanium coated for extra strength and smoother, precise cutting. This hard-wearing product features all the usual Darlac Expert Range benefits – slim profile anodised handles, shock absorbers for reduced impact, an inbuilt wire cutting notch, ease of use and a two-position opening mechanism. Although a premium manufactured item the suggested retail price (srp) is £29.99 and it is available for wall display or within a counter display, containing 6 pairs, for impulse sales.

 

The Telescopic Double-Sided Rake will also be of interest to hobby gardeners due to its great versatility. It is described as a “brilliantly flexible, strong, rake for the busy gardener”. Two complementary rake heads are housed on the same lightweight shaft. The deep, long tines are perfect for heavy duty jobs of loosening and levelling soil, collecting weeds and trimmings and then flip the handle and the shorter tines are great for creating a fine tilth for seed sowing and even scratching moss out of lawns. The long handle makes life easy and keeps backache at bay and with a srp of £24.99 it will make another impulse buy.

 

A new lightweight edging shear comes into the range – the company freely admit this has been a glaring omission. Tough aluminium handles, with soft TPR grips, at 930mm are comfortable for most people and the carbon steel blades are PTFE coated for smooth cutting. At £29.99 srp, these shears complement the top selling telescopic handled version.

 

The bamboo range sees a new addition. The Hand Rake is introduced after consumer requests, the 6 strong tines are the prefect size for clearing leaves and other debris from between plants and it is a great addition to the hand tool range at a srp of £11.99. This unique bamboo range looks good and is perfect for eco sales – bamboo is tough, renewable and does not need FSC accreditation.

 

Tim Jeffries, Darlac Managing Director said: “We were looking forward to showing these products off at GLEE but sadly it wasn’t to be. We are convinced they will add something a little extra to our range and underline our reputation for introducing quality, innovative new items.”

Details are obtained from Darlac sales agents or direct from the company – info@darlac.com or 01753 547790.

Frank P Matthews growing ‘Orchards for Schools’

Frank P Matthews has teamed up with The Tree Council to supply ‘Orchards for Schools’ across the UK. All nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools, both dependent and independent are eligible to apply for a free orchard pack which will include fruit-bearing, wildlife-enhancing and carbon-storing trees...


 

Frank P Matthews has teamed up with The Tree Council to supply ‘Orchards for Schools’ across the UK.

 

All nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools, both dependent and independent are eligible to apply for a free orchard pack which will include fruit-bearing, wildlife-enhancing and carbon-storing trees.

 

Clare Bowen from the Tree Council explains: “We’re giving away free orchard and hedgerow packs to inspire teachers and pupils around the country to get outdoors, plant and care for trees. Teachers will also receive an engaging set of resources, designed by experts and teachers, all linked to the national curriculum.”

 

“We have selected some excellent varieties for the schools,” adds Steph James of Frank P Matthews, “good cropping, reliable varieties with delicious fruit, such as Apple ‘Bright Future’, Pear ‘Conference’ and Plum ‘Victoria’. It’s a great way for the children to learn about nature and get some healthy free food!”

 

The majority of schools that apply before 16th November will receive their Orchard Packs in early December, the offer will then remain open until 23rd February and all packs will be delivered before the end of March 2021. An application form can be downloaded from https://treecouncil.org.uk/schools-and-education/orchards-for-schools/

 

The project has been made possible after a successful Christmas 2019 fundraising appeal with the Daily Mail along with the generosity of four major donors – Lord Sugar, Sir Jony Ive, Richard Caring, Vernon Hill and one anonymous donor – plus the donations of thousands of readers.

 
How retailers can capture a new generation of poinsettia customers this festive season

 

Retailers have an unrivalled opportunity to bring poinsettia to the attention of even more customers as the popularity of houseplants continues to skyrocket...


 

There is no question that poinsettias are well recognised as the ‘Christmas flower’ with droves of buyers bringing these colourful bracts into their homes throughout the festive season. This year, however, retailers have an unrivalled opportunity to bring poinsettia to the attention of even more customers as the popularity of houseplants continues to skyrocket. Here, the team at Stars for Europe digs a little deeper into this ever-popular trend.

 

Spend five minutes on Instagram and you are guaranteed to find a houseplant blessing your timeline. Little wonder when you consider that the houseplant hashtag currently has 4.8 million posts to its name, with #urbanjungle enjoying over 5 million, and #poinsettia boasting a modest 327,000 posts. These figures demonstrate just how popular houseplants have become in the world of social media as millennial ‘plant parents’ showcase their greenfingers. 

 

But it’s not just millennials that are adding more greenery to their homes. The latest stats from the Garden Centre Association (GCA) saw 2019 take home the title of ‘Year of the Houseplant’ with houseplants representing the fastest growing category within garden centres across the country and topping the bestsellers charts in five months out of 12. Fast forward to 2020 and these numbers prove to be even more impressive. The RHS reports sales of houseplants are now 60% up year-on-year, with July 2020 seeing a 81.82% increase when compared to the same month in 2019, according to the GCA. This growth has been attributed to the national lockdown, which saw a three million strong ‘garden army’ take up gardening for the first time, which included falling in love with houseplants.

 

With houseplants front and centre, and the biggest ever engaged audience looking to get their ‘green’ fix during winter, there is no doubt that retailers have a hugely exciting opportunity at their fingertips in the lead up to Christmas. But having a houseplant department, and one that features poinsettia, may not be enough. Instead it is important to ensure that the offering and sales support speaks the language of the customer.

 

Optimise your social media channels

With social media platforms such as Instagram the preferred playground for plant parents, it makes sense that retailers also optimise this channel to showcase their poinsettia offering in the lead up to Christmas. Create content that inspires potential customers to come and see the product in the flesh, whilst also providing quick hints and tips on plant care. Be sure to include the most searched for terms so that images are easily tracked down, such as #houseplants, #plantparent, #poinsettia and #christmasflower, and make sure content is regularly shared – a single pic might help a few customers find you, but consistent content will work much harder.

 

Why not add such info at the point of sale? A small display encouraging customers to share their best photos either onsite or of their poinsettia plant at home, is a great way of encouraging conversation with your customers, whilst showcasing your store to other potential customers. Add a personalised hashtag to make searching for snaps even easier.

 

Create displays that inspire & catch the eye

Retailers will already have stock on order, and within the next few weeks poinsettia plants will start arriving in store. This year create displays that use the same creativity as Christmas décor displays. From ‘snow’ to twinkly lights, make the displays as ‘Instaworthy’ as the plants themselves. In doing so, retailers increase customers sharing the image on their own social channels, and with friends and family, in turn enticing more people into store.

 

Basic care tips

One of the biggest issues with houseplants is that basic care information is not known or actively followed. This means that many houseplants find themselves in the bin once leaves start wilting. Adding easy to follow care tips at the point of purchase is a great way of actually encouraging sales, without having to rely solely on staff manning the area. A small chalkboard or pin board is all that retailers need to communicate top tips for keeping poinsettias alive long after Santa has visited. 

 

Find out more

To find out more about Stars for Europe, and to access its incredible library of advice, aspirational imagery and content please visit https://www.starsuniteeurope.eu/en/

Internet garden market set to achieve 25% growth

The internet garden products market is estimated to achieve growth of 25%, profiting from the surge in Internet usage as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, according to a new report by AMA Research...


 

The internet garden products market is estimated to achieve growth of 25%, profiting from the surge in Internet usage as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, according to a new report by AMA Research.

 

The research reveals that online sales will continue to expand as social distancing measures remain in place, constraining in-store retailing for the remainder of 2020 and potentially into 2021.  

 

Online shopping is following an upward trajectory, with 87% of UK adults shopping online in 2020.  As both fixed and mobile Internet speeds increase, and smartphone ownership expands, it is likely that more consumers will use the Internet for shopping in the coming years. 

 

Consumers are also becoming increasingly aware that cheaper prices can be found online, with price comparison websites facilitating easy comparisons.  Product research via blogs, reviews, social media and YouTube is likely to cause an increase in purchases of garden products online.  

 

During April, May and June Internet sales accounted for 31% of total retail sales in the UK, compared to 19% in 2019.  Correspondingly, the value of the Internet garden market has risen significantly in 2020. In addition, demand for garden products was notably high during lockdown with consumers spending more time at home during the sunniest Spring on record. Items such as barbecues and grow-your-own products were particularly popular online purchases during the lockdown period, contributing to estimated market growth of 25% in 2020.

 

Jane Tarver, Market Research Analyst for AMA Research, comments: “Whilst in-store purchases currently still dominate the retail garden sector, into the medium-term, online sales are likely to feature more prominently across all channels in the garden distribution sectors. Garden centres in particular are likely to increase their presence in the online market, which could significantly increase online sales of horticultural products."

 

Market growth continues to be underpinned by the popularity of ‘click & collect’ services.  Whilst home delivery lead times have improved considerably in recent years with next day delivery being a common requirement, many consumers prefer the convenience of collecting items from a local store. 

 

Online promotions have also helped to sustain market growth, retailers regularly offer discount codes, special offers or free delivery on purchases over a certain amount which often encourages consumers to purchase online.

 

It is expected that the Internet garden market will continue to increase to 2024, although the amount of growth will be dependent on the recovery of the retail sector post-lockdown.  

 

Lower growth levels are forecast after 2021, assuming that in-store retailing begins to recover, with annual growth of around 8% forecast towards the end of the review period as the market begins to mature.

 
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra

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





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

Subscribe for free using this link

 
Pots continue to dominate garden product sales

As with the first week of the month, last week when the weather wasn’t so good saw sales dip below last year again. The weather is still the deciding factor when it comes to people getting outside and spending money on their garden...


As with the first week of the month, last week when the weather wasn’t so good saw sales dip below last year again. The weather is still the deciding factor when it comes to people getting outside and spending money on their garden.

 

However, the good weather weeks have given us enough of a lead over last year so we only need average sales during half term week for the month to be the best since October 2014 for volume sales.

 

Pots continue to dominate garden product sales. This week there are 16 pot or pot feet lines in the GTN Top 50, plus there are four drip feeder lines in the chart.

 

Highlights of the week were:

  • Growth Technology’s Orchid Pot Clear 17cm is the highest climber of the week, mirroring the Orchid compost rise in the Growing media chart.
  • Woodlodge’s 5 inch Spang Half Pot is the highest re-entry at No 13.
  • As gardeners prepare for the onset of cold weather Smart Garden Plant Fleece, 1.5m wide, sold per metre, is the highest new entry at No 20.

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

 
Dobbies raises funds for Stroke Association

Dobbies invited customers to make a donation to the Stroke Association on World Stroke Day (Thursday)...


Dobbies invited customers to make a donation to the Stroke Association on World Stroke Day (Thursday).

 

Customers could donate the price of their cup of tea to Stroke Association, with 100% of the funds going directly to helping people rebuild their lives after stroke. 

 

Graeme Jenkins, CEO at Dobbies, said: “We’re proud to be supporting the Stroke Association with our ongoing partnership. The charity provides specialist support to make sure people affected by stroke get the best care possible, and we’re highlighting World Stroke Day as an opportunity to raise vital funds and awareness for this important cause.” 

 

Andrew Cook, Executive Director at the Stroke Association, said: “Gardening has many benefits for people rebuilding their lives after stroke and we’re very grateful for Dobbies’ ongoing support. The money donated by their generous customers on World Stroke Day will help us offer the hope and support people need to put their lives back together again.”

 

With gardening providing a number of benefits to stroke survivors, having positive impacts on both physical and emotional recovery, Dobbies will be continuing its ongoing support for Stroke Association by providing further how to videos and content for My Stroke Guide: https://www.stroke.org.uk/finding-support/my-stroke-guide  

 

For more information visit dobbies.com

 
Christmas sales continues to grow

Christmas sales in garden centres continue to grow steadily but in cumulative volume terms they are down on last year. Reduced footfalls due to social distancing measures and additional regional restrictions are the most likely causes as centres report those people coming to the centres are buying good quantities of Christmas...


Christmas sales in garden centres continue to grow steadily but in cumulative volume terms they are down on last year. Reduced footfalls due to social distancing measures and additional regional restrictions are the most likely causes as centres report those people coming to the centres are buying good quantities of Christmas.

 

Having been out and about seeing long queues for restaurants at garden centres this week it will be interesting to analyse next week’s data for half term when Christmas sales usually accelerate substantially.

 

Highlights of the week were:

  • Armitages Good Boy Dog Advent Calendar makes a welcome return to the GTN Christmas chart, it is the highest re-entry at No 16, just one place behind the Lindt Children's Advent Calender.
  • Premier’s Paint Your Own Bauble Set is the highest placed new chart entry, in at No 30.
  • The History & Heraldry Personalised Gingerbread Hanging Decorations hold onto the title of No 1 Bestselling Christmas line for the second week.

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

 
Plant Healthy E-learning modules launched

The Plant Health Alliance has launched five Plant Healthy training modules. The modules cover a range of subjects fundamental to the management of plant health and biosecurity in the UK...


 

The Plant Health Alliance has launched five Plant Healthy training modules. The modules cover a range of subjects fundamental to the management of plant health and biosecurity in the UK. 

 

Starting with regulations and controls, the modules progress to cover how to conduct a Pest Risk Analysis for a horticultural business or organisation’s site. A site can be a nursery, garden centre, landscapers or arborist’s yard, or a public garden.

 

Also covered are the types of harmful organisms and how they spread. Information is provided on good plant biosecurity practice in relation to the Plant Health Management Standard, which is the voluntary Standard the Plant Healthy Certification Scheme is based upon.

 

Finally, Plant Health responsibility and recognition is covered with a description of how to progress onto the Plant Health Professional Register which is administered by the Royal Society of Biology. At the end of the modules is a short test. Upon successful completion a certificate is provided.

 

The modules are a free e-learning resource to help businesses and organisations understand what they need to know and actions they can take in order to protect plant and tree health. The modules are being launched as a beta version to gather feedback from users to help hone plant health information to improve plant biosecurity in the UK.

 

Thanks goes to the authors of the modules, Defra for funding their production, the HTA Learning and Development team and CPL- learning for their build and hosting. 

 

Sir Nicholas Bacon, Chair of the Plant Health Alliance said:"On behalf of the Plant Health Alliance I would like to thank everybody who has been involved in the production of these training modules. We encourage feedback from all, as this will lead to a better understanding of the training needs of the sector. We must all work together to improve our understanding of plant health and biosecurity and it is in this spirit that these modules are made available."

 

James Barnes, HTA Chairman, said: “The HTA continues to be at the forefront of promoting plant health in the UK. The launch of these E learning modules is another great step to raising awareness of the importance of this crucial issue.”

 

The Modules can be accessed here.

 
AIPH approves Euroflora 2021 in Genova

The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) has approved an application from Italy to host an International Horticultural Show in 2021...


 

The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) has approved an application from Italy to host an International Horticultural Show in 2021.

 

The C Category approval of Euroflora Genova, Italy was finalised online at the AIPH 72nd Congress on 30 September 2020.

 

With a theme focusing on “A World of Rare Beauty” this will be the 12th International Exhibition of Flowers and Ornamental Plants in Genova, a port city and the capital of northwest Italy’s Liguria region, from 24 April until 9 May.

The scenic Nervi Historic Parks and Museums will be the open-air stage for nature in all its forms, showcasing examples of magnificent colours, audacious floral geometry, works of art and exotic charm in an evocative context of great historical and landscape value. Euroflora 2021 will be a voyage of rare beauty, where surprise and marvel will accompany visitors through enchanted gardens and breath-taking views of the sea.

 

Euroflora 2021 will be an event to celebrate and support the horticultural industry through these troubled times. The show is counting on meaningful partnerships including the Italian Ministry of Agricultural and Forestry Policies, the Italian Association of Nursery Exporters, the Italian Trade and Investment Agency, which will finance an incoming cycle of buyers from various markets around the world to Genova. Grandi Giardini Italiani, the network that brings together Italy’s most prestigious public and private gardens, and AICG – Italian Garden Center Association – will promote the visit totheir buyers.

 

During Euroflora 2021 there will be competitions for all exhibitors to reward the best Italian and foreign participants. The judging splits into honour, design and technical accolades. Recognition in taking part, especially for foreign countries and regions, on such an international horticultural show, will be on display with individual or collective presentations arranged in the various exhibition areas.

 

Design competitions will reward the beauty, originality and artistic presentation of the plants on display, while technical competitors are about the quality, robustness and innovation of blooms, shrubs and trees. There will also be a specific competition to award the displays that conserve their grace throughout the event.

 

As per international flower show rules and regulations, participation to Euroflora is free. The exhibition spaces will be assigned by the organisers after approving the applicants’ projects, taking into account the specific requirements of each installation and their consistency with the event’s general plan.

 

Strict guidelines will be published and will be in effect to stop the spread of Covid-19. The organisers confirm there will be a daily limit of visitors to ensure superlative safety and so all can appreciate the event at its best.

 

Commenting on the approval AIPH Secretary General, Mr Tim Briercliffe says: “AIPH is delighted to grant its approval and add Euroflora to the AIPH Exhibition Calendar. This event will be a great opportunity to celebrate the importance of flowers and plants as the world emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic.”

 

Euroflora organiser, and President of Porto Antico di Genova Spa, Mr Mauro Ferrando, says: “Being approved by AIPH is a source of great pride for us. The quality of the events recognised by the association, means added value for the promotion of Euroflora. The approval on the international stage will help us to support the horticultural industry and allows our community the opportunity to exchange and update each other on the latest market trends.”

 

AIPH approves International Horticultural Shows in accordance with the AIPH Regulations for International Horticultural Exhibitions.  

 

To find out more information visit www.euroflora.genova.it

 
Garden Connect renews EFSA website

Garden Connect has developed the new EFSA website. Having been a member of EFSA since 2017, Garden Connect is very involved with the network of leading suppliers to the garden industry...


 

Garden Connect has developed the new EFSA website. Having been a member of EFSA since 2017, Garden Connect is very involved with the network of leading suppliers to the garden industry. 

 

“The old EFSA website had a nice design, but it is important to keep innovating. EFSA's focus has changed and we wanted more flexibility to manage content ourselves,” says Ulrike Ziegler on behalf of EFSA.

Ulrike explains why EFSA came to Garden Connect to renew the website: “Garden Connect has a lot of experience in developing websites and online marketing for garden centres. So we had the specialist for the garden industry in-house because as an EFSA member we know Garden Connect well and there is a lot of confidence in the collaboration. ”

What does EFSA do?
EFSA is a group of leading manufacturers in the garden industry and lifestyle sector who have joined forces to explore future trends and stimulate innovation.

EFSA is known for the concept store that is set up every year at Spoga-Gafa and which offers numerous innovative retail solutions. Garden Connect also contributes to this concept store and through that connection, became a member of EFSA.

Other members include Beeztees, Capi, Edelman, Woodlodge, Ter Steege and Smiemans. A complete overview of all members is, of course, listed on their website.

Pleasant cooperation
In recent months, EFSA and Garden Connect have been in close collaboration to make the website represent the innovation EFSA stands for: “The collaboration was very positive and pleasant. It is great that we have received good training so that we can easily manage the site ourselves, make adjustments and put current themes on the site ad-hoc without the intervention of Garden Connect.”

Content
“We are happy with the new, modern website and are now going to work on the content of the website. We can clearly see what is happening in Google Analytics and hope, together with Garden Connect, to get more out of the website. ”

The new website can be found at www.efsa.com.

 
OHAS Grower Standard Version 4 launches

The Ornamental Horticulture Assurance Scheme (OHAS) has announced the release of the OHAS Grower Standard Version 4...


The Ornamental Horticulture Assurance Scheme (OHAS) has announced the release of the OHAS Grower Standard Version 4. 

The OHAS formerly known as the BOPP Certification Scheme, is a specialist group of the HTA and was renamed to accurately reflect the breadth of a worldwide membership. 

The OHAS has been running for over 23 years and is relied upon throughout the industry to ensure that customers have confidence when procuring from OHAS Certificated suppliers.  

 

It is designed to enable certified businesses to demonstrate high standards of good agricultural practise, quality, safety and service. The Grower Standard allows growers to meet the specific requirements of ornamental horticulture producers and the requirements of GLOBALG.A.P. against which the standard is benchmarked as a GLOBALG.A.P. resembling scheme. 


GLOBALG.A.P. is a trademark and a set of standards for good agricultural practices (G.A.P.).

The updated version reflects the work that has been undertaken to incorporate the additional plant health requirements and to allow for a more logical flow to the standard. In addition, the standard has been reviewed in line with some changes to the GLOBALG.A.P. Standard version 5.2 and GLOBALG.A.P. has confirmed that the OHAS Grower Standard remains benchmarked against their Flowers and Ornamentals Standard with continuing resembling status against GLOBALG.A.P. Version 5.2  

Quality ornamental production is key to a thriving horticulture industry. The OHAS supports producers and packers of ornamental horticultural products, providing quality assurance to the industry. 

For more information, contact Pippa Greenwood, the Scheme Manager at ohas@hta.org.uk 

 
The best of last week's

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


 
Monty Don makes headlines slamming garden centres

Monty Don made national newspaper headlines last week slamming garden centres, accusing them of "actively choosing to do harm" by selling peat compost and criticised the availability of "mass-produced disposable" plants...


 

 

 

Monty Don made national newspaper headlines last week slamming garden centres, accusing them of "actively choosing to do harm" by selling peat compost and criticised the availability of "mass-produced disposable" plants.

 

The Times, The Telegraph, Daily Mail and Express newspapers all carried coverage of the presenters column in BBC Gardeners World magazine where he is quoted as saying: "Cheap, mass produced houseplants or bedding potted into peat cheer people up.

 

"The garden trade must must be a key part of this. The standard line is that if people did not buy it, then they would not produce or stock it.

 

"But if you supply a product that relies upon harmful environmental practices, cheap labour, poor conditions or the destruction of habitat, then you are part of the problem."

 

Read the full newspaper articles here:

 

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/ditch-peat-and-cheap-pots-says-monty-don-dzssh379v

 

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/10/22/stop-buying-mass-produced-plants-garden-centres-fueling-climate/

 

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8871409/Monty-Don-slams-garden-centres-selling-compost-peat.html

 

https://www.express.co.uk/celebrity-news/1351320/Monty-Don-news-gardeners-world-garden-centres

 
HTA calls on Welsh government to review ‘non-essential retail’ ruling on garden centres

The HTA has written to Ken Skates, the Welsh Government’s Economy Minister, expressing its great disappointment at the decision to classify garden centres as ‘non-essential retail’, which forced them to close on Friday. James Barnes (pictured), Chairman of the HTA, has requested a meeting to review the definition of ‘non-essential’  in order to safeguard garden centres' ability to trade in future...


The HTA has written to Ken Skates, the Welsh Government’s Economy Minister, expressing its great disappointment at the decision to classify garden centres as ‘non-essential retail’, which forced them to close on Friday.

 

James Barnes, Chairman of the HTA, has requested a meeting to review the definition of ‘non-essential’  in order to safeguard garden centres' ability to trade in future – as the Government’s own scientific advisors have suggested a different interpretation of what businesses needed to close. He’s also asked for urgent clarification on the operation of farm shops/food halls in garden centres and click and collect services.

 

“Back in May, Wales was the first UK administration to take the decision to reopen garden centres and we expected this to be a sign of support for the industry. With no evidence to show why garden centres should be closed, we were crushed to see them included yet again as ‘non-essential retail’ for this Friday’s lockdown. We are asking for the current list of ‘essential’ v ‘non-essential’ retail list to be urgently reviewed,” he said.

 

With the Welsh government’s own scientific (TAC) group advising late May as the definition of ‘non-essential’ and other places in the UK establishing June 2020 reopening as the definition, the HTA argues this is a pragmatic approach to reducing social interaction, while minimising negative economic impact. 

 

The letter calls for such a review to recognise the ease with which garden centres can provide safe and secure retail environments, with their naturally large, open and airy infrastructures providing a perfect starting point for socially distanced trading; the important role gardening plays in promoting health and wellbeing and offering a safe and positive activity to do while at home and the damage closure will do to a sector still recovering from lockdown.

 

Many Welsh garden centres, particularly in rural areas, provide essential food items such as fresh produce, bread and milk and the HTA says such stores should be able to continue trading as a community store, as a small supermarket would. Garden centre ‘Click and collect’ services were run during the previous lockdown and the HTA has urged the Welsh Government to accept this approach now saying it is a safe way to ensure people can continue to garden during lockdown and to help reduce the significant loss of sales garden centres will face.

 

Emergency funding based on rateable value will not help many garden centres, says the HTA, because the necessarily large size of their premises pushes them above the values stated for qualification despite the fact they are classed as small or medium in most other categories. 

 

“I’m concerned that many small and medium garden centres won’t have access to funding to cover losses incurred,” said James Barnes.

 

“Even for those businesses that can access funding it is likely to be well below the costs that will be concurred by the two-week lockdown. Small and medium-sized members have told us they estimate they will lose between £160,000-£170,000 over the two weeks – impacting their ability to recover and grow, potentially threatening jobs.”

 

Several Welsh garden centres told GTN Xtra how they were planning to operate during the 17 day long Firebreak:

 

Justin Williams at Fron Goch in North Wales said: "We're very frustrated. I thought we were through this level of uncertainty.

 

"My understanding is that click and collect is not permitted in Wales this time . But after last time I feel we are better closing, manning phones, socially media and spend our efforts preparing for very high levels of trade once open. 

 

"Christmas shopping is experience shopping and this year we have very little competition with people avoiding city centres including Liverpool and Manchester. 

 

"We have plenty to do with our development nearing completion. I am still hopeful this can end well, if we have an uninterrupted run up to Christmas."

 

At Pughs in South Wales, Nicola Pugh reported: "Our online shop and deliveries have continued since setting up at the beginning of the first lock down so this will be our main channel of sales for the next 17 days and we endeavour to keep adding products daily as we have been for a while.

 

"Our Food Hall will remain open and support the local communities again with essentials. With it being a two week lock down, we are not going to put too much pressure on ourselves and just ride the wave and do what we can for the next few weeks."

 

Martin Davies at Ragan Garden Centre added: "For garden centres it is in fact 16 days as we closed yesterday evening 30 minutes before the 6pm curfew. In the absence of any confirmation as to what we can and cannot do, we have decided to continue our 5 day a week delivery service locally and for those workers who are allowed to be out and about a call in and collect facility is available."

 

Please use the comments panel below or e-mail trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk with your comments about the Welsh Firebreak and it's effect on garden centre trading.

 

 

 
October gardening hits record levels
Exclusive GTN Bestsellers Epos data analysis

Increased gardening activity has driven significantly increased garden centre sales this October...


 

Increased gardening activity has driven significantly increased garden centre sales this October. Just look at the year-on-year movements of the GTN volume sales indexes for last week:

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year (week 42):

  • Growing Media Top 50 – up 76%
  • Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – up 74%
  • Garden Products Top 50 – up 13%
  • Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – up 6%
  • Christmas Top 50 – static 0%

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week last year (week 42):

  • All Plants with Barcode index – up 35%
  • All Items with Barcode index – up 22%

That performance for Growing Media means the GTN Bestsellers year-to-date index is now at +0.7% after being at -51% when garden centres re-opened in May.  Since the start of September growing media sales have been on average 66% ahead of last year, indicating a possible two-thirds increase in core growing activity. If just half of that carries over to next year we could be reporting more record sales through March, April and May in 2022. We just need to be able to keep trading to service the demand.

 

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

 
Dobbies launches new format store in Scotland’s capital

Dobbies is developing its first small format store – Little Dobbies – located on Raeburn Place in Edinburgh and scheduled to open in November. It is the first of its kind for the retailer that has 68 garden centres across the UK...


 

Dobbies is developing its first small format store – Little Dobbies – located on Raeburn Place in Edinburgh and scheduled to open in November. It is the first of its kind for the retailer that has 68 garden centres across the UK.

 

The core of the Little Dobbies’ offer will be horticulturally focused with a range of convenience gardening products. This will be complemented by a carefully curated range featuring houseplants and pots; a small range of gifts; and selected seasonal ranges. For opening, the seasonal ranges will feature Christmas items, including decorations, wreaths and hampers.

 

There will also be a coffee shop, offering hot and cold drinks, as well as takeaway food. 

 

Graeme Jenkins, CEO at Dobbies, said: “This is an exciting new venture for our team, as we launch the first Little Dobbies. The store will feature gardening essentials for city centre residents and will showcase some of the extensive ranges available at our larger stores and at dobbies.com

 

“Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the project and we can’t wait to open the doors of Little Dobbies in November.”

 

Opening hours for Little Dobbies are Monday to Friday, 10:00 -18:00; Thursday 10:00-19:00; Saturday and Sunday 09:00-18:00.

 

For further information visit dobbies.com

 
Steve Harper joins Southern Trident

Southern Trident significantly strengthens its senior team with the appointment of Steve Harper as their new CEO...


Southern Trident significantly strengthens its senior team with the appointment of Steve Harper as their new CEO.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Balaji Manoharan, Founder, Southern Trident said “Steve’s appointment as our CEO reiterates our commitment to be at the forefront of the peat-free initiative, which continues to gain momentum in the UK. His strong cross functional industry background, coupled with the pivotal leadership role in structured, effective programs such as the Responsible Sourcing Scheme, made him a natural choice. All of us at Southern Trident are delighted that the company’s core value of delivering sustainability and strong appetite for growth will now be supported by a CEO who has dedicated a significant part of his professional career to advocate such a notable environmental cause, alongside delivering commercial results.”

 

Steve will bring to the team his deep knowledge and experience during his 20 years in the industry, having held key roles, including Sales Director at William Sinclair Horticulture and Managing Director of the start-up peat-free growing media company Vital Earth and is past Chair of the Growing Media Association.

Steve joins Southern Trident from The Greener Gardening Company (previously Bord na Mona) where, as Sales and Marketing Director he helped to develop the company's UK market and was instrumental in the rapid growth of its distribution base and launch of their own peat-free compost brand. Steve also chairs the industry wide Responsible Sourcing Scheme for Growing Media working with Defra, the HTA, NGO’s, retailers and other manufacturers.

Steve says about the move “I am hugely excited to be joining the Southern Trident, their initial products are already recognised as being pioneering and award winning, bringing a whole new dimension to the growing media market and being welcomed by retailers across the country. A strong team is being brought together to rapidly expand this business with plans to become a significant manufacturer of the future. Where previously peat producers dominated the market with access to their core raw material now Southern Trident is in control of its destiny bringing its coir-based products from its factories in India delivering both innovation and quality to the UK market.”

 

Southern Trident Ltd, through its brand Coco & Coir™ in the last 12 months has enjoyed substantially beyond budgeted, increased sales growth. Southern Trident is a UK company with strong roots in India supplying high quality coir based growing medium and eco-friendly doormats. Customers are supplied direct from source to market in a fully Southern Trident managed seamless operation. Sustainability is at the heart of Southern Tridents foundation believing that the coconut is the perfect crop that will work for the consumer, the environment and meet the aims of the Southern Trident strongly held company values, Green today, Greener tomorrow.   

 

For more information on our pre-season deals and to arrange a meeting please contact Ian Riggs

Email - ian@southerntrident.com   Call – 07368 134605

 

Visit: www.southerntrident.com to register, sign up, view ranges

 

Click through to our short video to see our range https://youtu.be/I5rO9EaBpO0

 

 

Social media:

https://www.facebook.com/cocoandcoir

https://www.instagram.com/cocoandcoir/

https://www.twitter.com/cocoandcoir

https://www.linkedin.com/company/southerntrident

 

 
Fordingbridge looks to expand polytunnel arm of business
GTN Xtra Promotion

Garden centre and horticulture construction specialist Fordingbridge, based in Arundel West Sussex, is looking for a new member of staff to focus on its horticulture sales and service...


 

Garden centre and horticulture construction specialist Fordingbridge, based in Arundel West Sussex, is looking for a new member of staff to focus on its horticulture sales and service.

 

Now trading for over 55 years, the firm best known for its plant area canopies and sustainable building offering, is searching for someone to help ‘grow’ the polytunnel arm of the business. 

 

“Fordingbridge has been manufacturing polytunnels for over five decades and we are known for the quality and longevity of our structures,” explains Fraser Dixon, Business Development Manager at the firm. 

 

“Because of this, and following recent events, we have seen a significant increase in activity in the sector and are looking for a new member to assist in this workload. We are looking for someone with the drive, attention to detail and polytunnel knowledge to join our team and exceed our clients’ expectations.”

 

The role will involve looking after a new and existing base of polytunnel clients, including contractors, commercial growers, nurseries and garden centres. 

 

While based in the Arundel facility, where all Fordingbridge canopies and steelwork is designed and manufactured, there will be opportunity to travel to meet clients, along with the occasional survey and trade show. 

 

Those interested should send a CV to info@fordingbridge.co.uk before October 30th.

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

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


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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

 
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week

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


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

 

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

All the latest news from the world of pet products


Start-up firm Sniffe & Likkit shakes up petcare category

Start-up Sniffe & Likkit has launched a range of premium dog grooming products designed to capitalise on the on-going humanisation of pets and the Petcare category’s continued growth. The range has already scooped Health & Grooming ‘Product of the Year’ from PetQuip - the international trade association of pet equipment manufacturers...


 

Start-up Sniffe & Likkit has launched a range of premium dog grooming products designed to capitalise on the on-going humanisation of pets and the Petcare category’s continued growth. The range has already scooped Health & Grooming ‘Product of the Year’ from PetQuip - the international trade association of pet equipment manufacturers. 

 

Set up by two Soap & Glory veterans, the range takes inspiration from the fine fragrance and personal care categories. This includes the notion of ‘masstige’ (prestige quality at affordable prices), which is a major growth driver in beauty and men’s grooming, but not yet seen in petcare. 

 

Well-being is at the heart of the firm’s approach, with its luxurious shampoos, fragrances, balms and wipes based on all-natural aromatherapy oil and a focus on natural ingredients - specially formulated to be pH-balanced for dogs’ skin. 

 

The ‘Hound Pound’ in the UK is booming and will be worth £1.1bn by 2021, with 300,000 homes a year acquiring a new dog and a third of Brits now owning one. Within 3-5 years, it’s estimated that the UK dog population will have grown by 1.5m to 10m (source: Mintel, October 2018 and Euromonitor, 2019). This boom has been accelerated by two COVID-19 factors - firstly, during Lockdown, pet stores were classed as ‘essential’ and therefore one of few retail outlets that people could still visit. Then, with people spending much more time at home, pet ownership soared as they sought companionship (or an excuse for a daily walk). 

 

Sniffe & Likkit’s signature scent ‘Woodland Wonderfur’ was created by pet aromatherapists using high grade essential oils - renowned for their calming and soothing qualities. Containing a unique blend of cedarwood, vetiver, petitgrain, juniper berry and ho leaf, the scent imparts a woodland aroma (‘fougere’ in fine fragrance circles) that appeals to both hounds and humans - and which helps calm dogs when washing and grooming.  Highly efficacious, the multitasking formulas deliver high-quality grooming results at home or on the move. 

 

Working hand in hand with the scent is what the firm calls a ‘powerhouse blend’ of actives and botanicals - including organic aloe vera leaf juice, quillaja soap bark and white willow bark extracts - formulated to deliver optimum fur and skin care benefits. Products include ‘No Rinse Charming’, a dry shampoo perfect for a speedy spruce-up (£14.00 RRP/90g) and ‘Give A Dog Cologne’, a fine fragrance with natural essential oils, conditioning agents and botanicals designed to refresh fur fast (£14.00/125ml).

 

Completing the launch line-up are ‘Fab Paw’ a naturally conditioning and soothing protection balm (£14.00/75g), Fragrant Fur Coat, a 3-in-1 brightening and conditioning shampoo (£14.00/250ml) and ‘Wippets’, individually packed cleansing wipes that are perfect to grab and go (£7.00/10 sachets). 

 

Lee Sargent, MD and ‘Head Human’ at Sniffe & Likkit, said: “We’ve put ourselves at the heart of the British pet-boom to really unleash the opportunity in the premium petcare category. With 67% of ‘pet parents’ willing to pay more for better quality, more natural, products (Source: Euromonitor, 2018), our range appeals to those who treat their dog like one of the family. And for them, we bring an innovative, fresh take on familiar product categories.” 

 

Each Sniffe & Likkit product is vegan-friendly and presented in striking yet practical silver aluminium packaging (recyclable/reusable) and easy to use tubes. The range is available at Ocado, Fetch.com and independent pet shops around the country, plus via sniffeandlikkit.com. @sniffeandlikkit (Instagram)

 

Trade stockists: Pedigree Wholesale (www.petproducts.co.uk) or hello@sniffeandlikkit.com

 
Armitage Pet Care sold to US firm

Armitage Pet Care, supplier of the Good Boy treat brand, has been sold by its private equity owner to US company Spectrum Brands in a deal worth £140 million.

 

The Good Boy Advent Calendar for Dogs is again a popular product in garden centres, becoming the highest re-entry into this week's GTN Bestsellers Christmas chart. 


Armitage Pet Care, supplier of the Good Boy treat brand, has been sold by its private equity owner to US company Spectrum Brands in a deal worth £140 million.

 

Rutland Partners acquired Armitage in September 2017 and in three years has transformed the business. The deal with Spectrum represents a 5.7-times return on investment.

 

Since acquisition, sales have grown by 50% to over £65m and the Good Boy brand has secured a spot in the UK’s top 100 grocery challenger brands.

 

Royal Warrant holder Armitage has a long heritage in the pet industry that dates back to 1775, and the company has claimed in the past that the Queen regularly feeds her Corgis with Good Boy Choc Drops.

 

Mark Andrews, CEO of Armitage, said: “I’d like to thank Rutland for their partnership and support over the last three years. Together we have achieved a total transformation of Armitage and it has been a pleasure to work with them.  

 

“Looking forward we are extremely well placed to continue to grow our brands and build on our market leading position.”

 

Post-completion, Nottingham-based Armitage will join forces with Spectrum’s European pet businesses, which include Tetra, IAMS, and FURminator.

 

Ben Slatter, partner at Rutland, said: “Armitage has delivered consistent growth by developing on-trend premium natural products in a very attractive niche within the pet category.  

 

“We worked closely with the team at Armitage to provide everything the business required to create a strong platform to fuel this growth. We wish Mark and the team all the best for the future.”

 

Spectrum Brands is a worldwide supplier of branded consumer, home and pet products.

 

David Maura, chairman and CEO of Spectrum Brands, said: “We are very excited to add a market leader in dog and cat chews and treats to our highly successful and fast-growing global pet care business unit. 

 

“We expect that our global scale and resources will not only help fuel future growth of the Armitage brands within the UK and across continental Europe and beyond, but will also strengthen its e-commerce business. 

 

“I would also like to warmly welcome the Armitage team to the Spectrum Brands family. I am confident in our ability to create tremendous value together.”

Pet start-ups set to grow after securing investment

Start-up pet food companies are being targeted by investors expecting to see handsome financial returns from this profitable sector. Just in the past week two relatively new companies have secured big investment to grow their businesses...

 

Richard Branson's daughter Holly (above right) has invested in healthy dog snack start-up brand, Denzel’s.


Start-up pet food companies are being targeted by investors expecting to see handsome financial returns from this profitable sector. Just in the past week two relatively new companies have secured big investment to grow their businesses.

 

First, a new cat food business, started by a brother and sister, secured a £4.5m investment to help the company expand across the UK.

 

Brett and Nikki O’Farrell started KatKin in 2019 because they believed pet food options available on the market didn’t provide cats with the nutrition they needed to live a healthy life.

 

They now aim to create the ‘healthiest cat food in the world’, with a 95% fresh, real meat content and zero fillers and preservatives.

 

The £4.5m investment, achieved in a seed funding round led by Octopus Ventures, will support the KatKin’s plans to make healthy fresh cat food more accessible. It will also allow the company to develop its personalised products to ensure that every cat receives their exact nutritional requirements.

 

Brett O’Farrell said: “We’re building a world class team that puts cats first and are on a mission to improve the lives of cats, as well as their owners. We’re grateful for the early support of our angel investors and Octopus, which enables us to continue investing in our product and customer experience and to further extend our reach in the UK.”

 

The second start-up company to win investment was Denzel’s, the healthy dog snack brand. It received a six-figure investment from Richard Branson’s daughter Holly and a handful of strategic investors, putting the company in position to grow 16-fold by 2022.

 

The business, which has a growing range of healthy snacks for dogs, was founded by millennial entrepreneurs, Nathan Perry (30) and James Lacy (29). 

 

Denzel’s launched in 2018 with initial funding from Virgin StartUp. Within 12 months the brand was stocked in over 1,500 locations and had grown by more than 500% by the end of year two, having also secured distribution in Ireland, Germany, Austria, Denmark and Dubai. 

 

Holly Branson, head of the Viurgin Investment Fund said: “Denzel’s is a great brand and has huge potential. They have already proved to be highly successful and I am extremely excited to be part of their future. 

 

“I’m a huge advocate for innovative, socially-conscious, sustainable brands that are run by individuals that place as much importance on their positive impact on society, as they do on profit. Denzel’s fast growth and ambition to shake up an established £3.2 Billion UK pet food market by encouraging them to be more sustainable and accountable for the quality of their ingredients, is what has attracted me to Denzel’s.”

 

James Lacy, co-founder of Denzel’s, commented: “With 26% of UK households being dog owners, coupled with an increasing appetite for healthier and more sustainable living, it makes perfect sense that people will want to give their dogs snacks that are better for them. 

 

“We have a number of products that are easily accessible, and we have seen a phenomenal response and rapid growth as a result. However, to take our brand to the next level, we recognised that we needed investment; not just financially, but with someone that shared our values and would invest in us as young entrepreneurs. 

 

“Holly was a no brainer; not only does she have all the qualities that we were looking for but, as our first business loan was with Virgin StartUp, there were already strong synergies.”

 

Pictured above, From left to right: Nathan Perry, James Lacy and Holly Branson.