Wyevale Garden Centres has just announced the sale of four more garden centres to individual buyers.

The centres are: Croydon Purley Way, Sidmouth, Solihull and Windsor.

Sidmouth (above left) and Solihull (above right) have been sold to existing garden centre operators Kings Garden and Leisure Limited and Rosebourne Limited.

Windsor will continue to operate as a Wyevale Garden Centre whilst its new owner, Wates Developments Limited, progresses longer term redevelopment opportunities. Croydon Purley Way has been sold to a party related to the existing landlord, Ultratown Limited, and is expected to continue to operate as a garden centre for up to 2 months.

Here is the Wyevale Garden Centres announcement in full:

25th September, 2018 – Wyevale Garden Centres (“WGC”), the UK’s biggest garden centre operator, today announces the sale of four garden centres to individual buyers.

The centres are: Croydon Purley Way, Sidmouth, Solihull and Windsor.

Sidmouth and Solihull have been sold to operators who are expected to continue to run them as garden centres. Windsor will continue to operate as a Wyevale Garden Centre whilst its new owner progresses longer term redevelopment opportunities. Croydon Purley Way has been sold to a party related to the existing landlord, and is expected to continue to operate as a garden centre for up to 2 months.

Roger Mclaughlan, Chief Executive of WGC, said: “We are pleased to have agreed the sale of four more of our garden centres. Across all four centres we would like to thank our great colleagues, who have been central to our turnaround in the past few years. In the case of Windsor, we will continue to operate as a Wyevale Garden Centre with no immediate impact.

“For those centres being sold to garden centre operators we would like to wish our colleagues well under the new ownership, and in the case of Croydon Purley Way, which has been sold for alternative use, we are very pleased to honour our commitments to our colleagues and partners and will seek to redeploy our excellent colleagues to our other garden centres wherever possible”.

Anthony Jones, Chief Financial Officer of WGC, said: “The centres sold to date had been highlighted as ‘non core’ as part of our ongoing portfolio review, which pre-dated the sale process. The sale of these centres reflects our continued pursuit of positive outcomes for our colleagues, concession partners, suppliers and customers. We are very grateful for the dedication and commitment of the teams at these centres, and we’ll continue to support them through the transition.”

WGC has received a significant number of offers for all or part of the remaining WGC business from national, regional and financial operators as well as local entrepreneurs.
Croydon Purley Way has been sold to Ultratown Limited, Sidmouth has been sold to Kings Garden and Leisure Limited, Solihull has been sold to Rosebourne Limited, while Windsor has been sold to Wates Developments Limited.

Wyevale Garden Centres is the UK’s biggest garden centre chain, with 131 garden centres, ranging from local horticultural centres to major leisure destination venues. The garden centres include 127 restaurants and cafes and 600 concessions with 231 partners. These have been significantly developed during Terra Firma’s ownership and have been key to driving footfall and de-seasonalising the business, making the centres attractive all-year round destinations.

RockinColour launched four new ranges at Glee 2018, accompanied with new point of sale and mixed colour pallet offers. The new ranges and offers were well received and RockinColour has gained key leads and confirmed numerous orders from the show.

Wayne Stevenson, RockinColour’s Managing Director noted: ‘The show has been a huge success for us. Indeed the first 5 customers on our stand on Monday morning placed orders and this positive theme continued throughout the show. We have come away from the show with a really nice mix of leads to follow up on, from large retails chains, to distributors to independents. And the interest for our products also extended beyond GB to France, Germany, Sweden, and even as far away as the UAE’.

Apart from the exciting new colour ranges on offer and launched at Glee 2018, RockinColour’s innovative mixed colour pallet offer went down with visitors particularly well.

Denis Bradley, RockinColour Sale’s Manager confirmed this by reporting: ‘We felt that for many seeing the RockinColour product for the first time that they needed a quantity and mix of colours that would mitigate any perceived risk from ordering and stocking a very different and colourful range of decorative aggregates, compared to what is the industry norm. We felt that a mixed colour pallet of 4 colours from our large pack range would address this concern, offering flexibility to our independent customers and demonstrating our confidence in the product that if given the chance it will sell well in any retail space. This offer along with a POS sign was a key selling point in gaining the numerous orders we had at the show. And also showed that RockinColour are interested in all business opportunities, not just with larger chains’.

The mixed pallet offer is also available for RockinColour’s pot topper range, with a mixed 8 colour option that includes a POS display stand.

Finally, one other major positive RockinColour can take away from Glee 2018, is the fact that with every valuable lead acquired, and every visitor which visited the stand, it became evident that the RockinColour brand is fast becoming known in the industry.

Jamie Stevenson, RockinColour’s Financial Director, touched on this point by saying: ‘It was very pleasing that from all the quality decision makers we had on our stand, they had all heard of RockinColour, and in many cases had made a point of seeking us out and coming over to find out more about the product’.

RockinColour now believe that the company and the brand are no longer up and coming in the industry, but have arrived and are here to stay. And is now better placed than ever to continue its mission to add more colour to the decorative aggregates category.

For more information about this Rockin’ product: visit www.rockincolour.com or email sales@rockincolour.com

Wyevale Christmas Trees are the Best, that's the claim being made by Wyevale Garden Centres as they launched Christmas 2018 to the media last week.

Over 60 magazine and national newspaper journalists popped into the Wyevale Garden Centres Christmas Tree and Wreath Showcase in Marylebone, Central London on Thursday.

As well as showcasing some of their seasonal houseplant, gift and gardening lines the main feature was their real Christmas Trees, which will be marketed in store as The Best Real Trees.

"We believe our real Christmas trees are the best, so why go anywhere else!" They proclaim.  For the second year Wyevale Garden Centres will be preparing trees to fit in stands, supplying free tree food with every tree and offering free hot chocolate every weekend in December.

Santa’s Secret Elf, in the top 5 of the GTN Bestsellers Charts on the run up to last Christmas, is back for Autumn 2018.

Santa's Secret Elf is an unforgettable Christmas adventure that gives the child an up close and personal look at the magic behind Christmas Eve.

Read this story together and share in the excitement of getting Santa out of a tricky situation. Personalised with the child's name in the text and colourful illustrations, this Christmas storybook also has space to draw themselves as Santa’s Secret Elf.

When the little ones are snuggled in bed they hear strange noises coming from downstairs. Santa is stuck in the chimney! The holly, jolly mix-up that follows puts your child in Santa's sleigh as he delivers presents to all the good little boys and girls.

Personalised products are outstanding performers and these wonderful books cover boys and girls names from Alfie to Sophia. Sales are focused on the 33 most popular names for each of boys and girls plus a generic book for each makes a total of 68 titles. Initial stock fill comes with a sturdy, proven, space efficient spinner which delivers excellent sales per foot.

These great little personalised hardback story books retail at only £3.99 so are great for stocking fillers. They are available to order from Baker and Taylor and can be replenished weekly by B&T.

Contact B&T by Web at baker-taylor.co.uk by email customer.service@btol-uk.com or by phone on 01869 363500.

B&T UK is the Uk’s leading supplier of Books and Gift Stationery.

Writtle University College graduates celebrated the conclusion of their specialist courses at two ceremonies at Chelmsford Cathedral.

With many of the students embarking on study at Writtle, near Chelmsford, in order to bring their passion for their subject to life, they are now set with an applied qualification and practical experience for the industries and sectors they wish to work in.

According to the latest figures from the Higher Education Statistics Agency, 91% of Writtle University College graduates last year were in employment or further study six months after graduation – and the prospects look good for the class of 2018 too!

Emily Abrey, from Saffron Walden, graduated with a BSc Agriculture (Crop Management) and has already started a full-time position as a SoilQuest Account Manager with agronomy firm Agrii.

She said: “Experience in this industry is crucial when job hunting and I’m grateful for the flexibility Writtle provided, which enabled me to work two days a week with Agrii’s Research & Development team while studying for my degree.

“Working at Agrii has ground-truthed what we learnt in class and it was really useful seeing some of the issues in a real-life situation. It also enabled me to build key contacts within the industry and develop my knowledge to a higher level.”

Eleanor Hosegood, from Burnham-on-Crouch, graduated with a BSc (Hons) Landscape and Garden Design with First Class Honours. She said: “The course covered a broad range of skills that are needed in the industry, which allowed me to discover my passions and develop my skills in areas that were weaker. 

“Since graduating, I have been working at Liz Lake Associates, where I have been able see how all the skills I have learnt can come together in real-life projects, whilst working together in a team similar to the studio environment at Writtle.”

Adam Newson, from Brentwood, graduated with a BSc (Hons) Landscape and Garden Design with First Class Honours and is continuing to study at Writtle for an MA Landscape Architecture.

He said: “The graduation ceremony was a great way for us all to celebrate our achievements! The community you’re part of at Writtle, and the fact that you’re treated as an individual with lots of access to lecturers, has made my experience both fun and educational.”

Lauren Hunt, from Rayleigh, is one of the first graduates from the Integrated Masters in Veterinary Physiotherapy, which she passed with distinction. She said: “The course gave me confidence and the clinical, practical skills I needed to walk straight into a hydro/physio job at Buddies+ in Colchester. I am also lucky enough to remain at Writtle in a lecturing position, which I jumped at because of the amazing lecturers there, who I can continue to learn from, and the friendly environment. I love working in my dream job and look forward to the many challenges to come!”

Sophie Allen, from Kesgrave near Ipswich, also graduated from the Integrated Masters in Veterinary Physiotherapy, said: “My course gave me the skills and 'tool box' needed to approach cases successfully as a Veterinary Physiotherapist. I am currently working at K9HS as part of the team of Veterinary Physiotherapists, and also starting up my own self-employed business alongside this.” 

At the ceremonies, Baroness Jenkin of Kennington, Founding Chancellor, gave an address to inspire graduates, in which she drew on her extensive parliamentary and international charity experience.

Born in Hatfield Peverel and married to Bernard Jenkin, MP for Harwich and North Essex, she told graduates that she believed they had “the power to change the world” with technology at their command that no other generation could dream of.

This year’s Graduation Ceremonies were all the more special as it is the 125th anniversary of Writtle University College.

Established in 1893 as the County Laboratories, its portfolio of courses has branched out from its agricultural and horticultural roots, with a range of animal, equine, business, sport and design programmes as well as study in Bioveterinary Science and Veterinary Physiotherapy.

College-level courses, Apprenticeships, and short courses join degrees and postgraduate awards.

Vice- Chancellor Professor Tim Middleton recounted some of the year’s highlights, including a partnership with the agricultural engineering company Crawfords, a £2million investment in equine stud facilities, a new Higher Education Study Hub, and the launch of an Equine Academy.

“This year is our 125th anniversary and I am very proud to be Vice-Chancellor of an institution with such distinguished alumni,” he said.

“Those graduating this year now join this group, which includes government ministers and leaders of successful land-based businesses. We look forward to hearing about what they go on to achieve as the newest members of the worldwide family of Writtle graduates.”

·         Apply now and join a University College where 89.2% of final year undergraduates said they were satisfied with the teaching on their course with increases in overall satisfaction in every area of the National Student Survey 2018.

·          Find out which specialist course is right for you at writtle.ac.uk

Legendary horticulturist and journalist receives Honorary Degree!

Celebrating with graduates at the morning ceremony at Chelmsford Cathedral was Peter Seabrook MBE, the well-known horticultural journalist and consultant, who was given an Honorary Degree from Writtle University College.

Peter, who studied at Writtle in the 1950s, has gone onto a distinguished career. He is gardening editor at The Sun - after more than 40 years – and was a presenter on Pebble Mill at One on BBC 1, Gardeners World on BBC 2, the BBC’s Chelsea Flower Show coverage and, for 20 years, on Coast to Coast on PBS in North America.

“There are hundreds, indeed thousands, like me who have a debt of gratitude to Writtle for their education and their friendships,” he said.

In his address to students, he showed why he has had such success in broadcasting, provoking many laughs when he produced a spade: “As a ten-year-old at a village school when 50 of us were taught by one master, I never would have thought I would fly across the Atlantic on Concorde twice; hover over an active volcano in Hawaii with a producer urging me to say insightful things when I could only think of the incineration waiting below; meet most members of the royal family; fly to Los Angeles, meet up with the TV crew there and fly on to New Zealand, stay in six hotels, travel on seven more flights and return home at the end of the week  with six, 30-minute programmes on tape.

“And it’s all because of this. A spade. It just happens that I could use it better than most people!”

The minimalistic design of the newly developed plant trolley models GH 0900 and GH 0901 from Wagner combines two mega trends: concrete and terrazzo. Both materials have been valued already in ancient times. Nowadays, the “classics” are state-of-the-art; modern planters made out of concrete or with a terrazzo surface are demanded trend accessories. The new plant trolleys from the German brand manufacturer are the perfect complement for that.

Both models are manufactured – technically demanding – in mould cast proceeding. Thereby arises a roller load platform in decorative terrazzo appearance, with the model GH 0900 in a bright colouring, and with the model GH 0901 in a dark colouring. With a diameter of 28 cm, both plant trolleys are the ideal mobile platform for all popular small and medium-sized pots.

Four heavy-duty equipment castors give both models best running properties on all soft, robust floor surfaces anywhere within the indoor and outdoor area and make the movement of heavy plants and planters with a weight of up to 100 kg easy and comfortable. For a stable and safe positioning at the desired location, two of the castors are equipped with fixing brakes. Particularly high quality: for maximum fixing security, the screw threads for the mounting of the castors have been embedded into the mould and thus integrative linked during the manufacturing process. 

The new roller models GH 0900 and GH 0901 complete the competence range “Plant Trolleys” from WAGNER with two genuine innovations. In addition, you can place them as solitary presentations in the “Basket” flexibly on small space within the store and in the roofed outdoor sales area, perfect e.g. for successful cross selling with plants and pots.

Contact: Wagner System GmbH, www.wagner-system.de/en

Sophie Lyall, customer services assistant at Haskins Garden Centre in West End has been announced as a runner-up in Cultivation Street’s national ambassador competition.

Cultivation Street is a campaign founded by David Domoney, celebrity TV Gardener and Broadcaster, to recognise and reward communities that are caring for their streets, as well as encouraging other communities to join together and start anew.

The campaign was specifically introduced to celebrate community gardens and their ability to bring people together using nature to inspire, heal and connect the communities they are a part of. The annual ambassador competition rewards those that go the extra mile for their local communities.

Sophie has been a Cultivation Street Ambassador for Haskins in West End since February and co-ordinates the provision of compost, plants, bulbs, gloves, seeds and bird food to local schools.

Working closely with Townhill Infant School, The Gregg School and Bitterne CE Primary School in Southampton, this summer Sophie worked with the children to increase their interest in gardening and helped them paint plant pots and grow sunflowers. In particular,

Sophie helps out at Bitterne CE Primary School’s nature group, which sees a group of six children get together after school to learn more about gardening. Looking to the future, Sophie plans to refresh, replant and repaint Bitterne CE Primary School’s garden.

Delighted to have been announced as a runner-up in the competition, Sophie commented: “I’m passionate about teaching children what I know about gardening because they’re the next generation of gardeners. It’s great seeing how excited they get over a plant they have grown and it’s great to get children interested in being outdoors and enjoying nature, rather than sat in front of a computer screen. This is something Haskins is really keen on encouraging – getting children interested in gardening from a young age, which is evident from our 'Garden Gang' campaign.”

Before the school holidays, Sophie worked with Shamblehurst Primary School to help create a memory garden for a 7-year old pupil who passed away to cancer. Sophie sourced compost, large pots, herbs and wind chimes for the memory garden.

Sophie continued: “I’m proud to be a Cultivation Street Ambassador because I want the children I work with to have a garden they can enjoy and I want them to feel pleased that they have played a valuable part in creating it for others to enjoy. I hope that over the next few years, I can link up with more schools and community groups to see how Haskins can help.”

Alice Whitehouse, Cultivation Street’s campaign manager, commented: “This year’s campaign has seen more entries in all categories and we’ve been astounded by the level of gardens and projects entered into the competition, as well as the devoted ambassadors that have worked hard throughout the year. The Ambassadors are an integral part of the competition and Sophie from Haskins has been fantastic in her first year as an ambassador. We have no doubt that we will see more great work from her throughout the year.

“Sophie has been exemplary at interacting with local schools and community groups in her area. This included her hand delivering packs Calliope Geraniums, the official Cultivation Street sponsor, as part of the industry’s biggest plant giveaway, where 12,000 plants were given out to schools and community groups across the UK.”

Sophie Lyall is Haskins’ designated Cultivation Street Ambassador for the West End centre, serving as a dedicated point of contact to support local community groups and schools with a garden. To contact Sophie, visit Haskins in West End’s Customer Services department.

Haskins is located in Mansbridge Road, Gaters Hill, West End, SO18 3HW. For more information visit www.haskins.co.uk

Wyevale Nurseries is searching for new employees this month to help meet demand as the business continues to grow. The company is looking to recruit a Sales and Marketing Director and an Amenity Sales Executive to enhance its already talented team and to boost its burgeoning sales going forward.

Andy Johnson (pictured), Managing Director at Wyevale Nurseries, explained: “We’ve had a marvellous year so far, having had the best May ever in our recorded trading history with sales up by 14%. We’ve also seen year-on-year (2017-18) growth of 17% in shrub sales and 19% in herbaceous and 60% in the sales of ferns.

“Our early summer sales continued at record levels and it looks set to be another successful year for us all-in-all.

“Now we’re looking to embrace these results and take the business further in 2019. We’re looking for a Sales and Marketing Director to co-ordinate the development of our sales, marketing and trading activities across all our product and market sectors, promoting the Wyevale Nurseries brand, driving up customer satisfaction and profitability across the board.

“Keeping our customers’ happy is key to our success and we have forged many wonderful relationships down the years, so we’re keen to interview people with great interpersonal skills and industry contacts.

“We are also currently seeking an experienced Sales Executive to join the amenity sales department. They too will need to be customer-focused and facing, have a good knowledge of the industry and be an experienced plantsperson. Communication is key with both roles, so we’ll expect to interview people who have plenty to say and are excellent at getting their message across.

“As these roles are so vital to the business, I’d like anyone interested in applying for them to contact me direct via andy@wyevale-nurseries.co.uk. I am more than happy to chat to people about the roles or to simply receive covering letters and CVs. The closing date for applications is Friday, October 19.”

Wyevale Nurseries’ new Sales and Marketing Director will also be expected to manage, motivate and develop the company’s seasoned sales team, while identifying new opportunities and innovative ways to delight its customers.

“We’re looking for people who love our ethos and culture, embrace the heritage, but can also come in and give us plenty to think about, help us to expand further and move forward with a 21st century environment very much in mind.

“It’s paramount our new Sales and Marketing Director works in conjunction with all the other sections of the company to ensure the business continues to offer a market-leading product range and service that’s fit for the future.”

Deco-Pak has produced a short video to let viewers hear how the company fared at Glee this year.

David Hall, one of the directors at family-run decorative aggregate product supplier, was interviewed on the last day of the show.

Click on the image of above to view the video.

Stax Trade Centres has announced details of yet another new strategic partnership which will provide its customers with access to a greatly increased range of fixings, fastenings, anchors, sealants and adhesives from Rawlplug. The partnership will see almost 1,000 new lines of Rawlplug-branded products added to those which are already available through the six Stax outlets in the UK.

“Stax is committed to working with leading trade and consumer brands and offering their products to customers at really competitive wholesale prices, and this development is a great example of that strategy in action,” explains Stax purchasing director, Simon Wright.

“From its creation almost 100 years ago Rawlplug has grown to become one of the world’s leading manufacturers of fixings and fasteners. Rawlplug and Stax were both part of the same group, Burmah Oil, in the late 70s, and we have sold Rawlplug products from day one, so we’re delighted that our customers will now be able to choose from a far greater Rawlplug selection.

“They’ll save time by being able to get all of the essential Rawlplug fixings needed for building and decorating jobs from one place, as well as the huge range of other trade and DIY product lines we offer. They’ll also enjoy all the traditional benefits which are associated with buying from Stax.” These include rapid availability thanks to the convenient opening hours of the Stax branches, instant stock availability on the vast majority of Rawlplug products, and the ability to use a Stax payment card which can provide up to 60 days interest-free credit.

“This deal really does bring benefits for everyone involved”, Simon adds. “Our hardware customers and DIY account customers will now have access to a far wider range of Rawlplug products than ever before. They’ll be able to take advantage of the stock and stand deals we’ll be offering, as well as improved terms on the Rawlplug range. It also gives Rawlplug instant access to a wholesale channel that reaches over 50,000 customers right across the UK. We have previously entered into similar successful agreements with other major names in the gardening and hardware sectors, so this is familiar territory for us and we know the sort of mutual benefits that can be created.”

Commenting on the new partnership, Rawlplug UK sales director Jonathan Metcalfe, adds, “Our goal is to help and support our wholesale partner Stax, and in turn, to further enhance and improve the delivery and availability to consumers of the whole Rawlplug offer.”

Stax is the UK's largest non-food wholesaler, and provides genuine trade-only wholesale support for a wide range of independent retailers across the country.

www.staxtradecentres.co.uk

Squire’s Garden Centre in Frensham is holding a “Fizz & Canapés” welcome evening for customers old and new on Thursday 1st November from 6pm-8pm.

Colin Squire and his daughter Sarah will host the evening to celebrate Frensham Garden Centre joining the Squire’s family of garden centres.

Customers will be welcomed with a glass of fizz, and delicious canapés will be served during the evening.

There’ll be live music from local artist Betsa Collins, magician Richard Kettle will wow you with his close up magic and mind reading, and there’ll be a charity raffle in aid of Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice.

It’s also a great chance to see Squire's Christmas shop, which includes a brand new gift department with new and unique ranges, and the popular Farm Shop, which is packed full or irresistible treats and goodies.

Lewis-Manning Hospice is seeking green-fingered fundraisers from Broadstone to Bournemouth, Sandbanks to Southbourne, Poole to Poundbury to participate in a new open garden scheme next summer (2019) and wants to encourage at least 25 gardens - or allotments - to sign up, with the aim of raising £20,000, which is enough to pay for the complete running of the bedded End of Life unit for five days.  This means that patients and their families can spend their last moments in comfort and peace, creating memories they will cherish forever.

Tom Goodinge, associate director of income and communications, said: "We hope to encourage as many green fingered gardeners to open their gardens for us, they can commit at any time in June or July 2019 for a few hours or a few days.  

"Some gardens may wish to provide cream teas or organise a raffle to raise money while others just open their gardens or fabulous fruit and vegetables plots - it's entirely up to the garden owner or allotment holder, and all offers of help are gratefully received.

"The garden here at the Hospice, overlooking Poole Harbour, has been described as a ‘sanctuary' by patients who have loved creating gardens to enjoy with family and friends during their lifetimes. In sharing your garden or allotment you will be supporting patients and families in Poole, Bournemouth and the surrounding areas who are facing a life-limiting illness."

For more information or to sign-up please contact David James (fundraising team) david@lewis-manning.co.uk

Photo shows the beautiful gardens at Lewis-Manning Hospice and the view out over Poole Harbour.

Application closes: 15 Oct 2018

Location: Manchester
Hours: Full Time
Contract: Permanent

We are looking for an experienced sales representative to join our extensive team helping us to maximise our growth within the north west. Reporting directly to our Manchester branch manager, the ideal candidate will be comfortable targeting new business opportunities and growing sales from our existing customer base.

We’re looking for someone with a proven record for driving sales who has great interpersonal skills. You will be highly self motivated, organised and professional. Outstanding communication skills are essential as you will be required to speak with a variety of customer types, as well as other staff on a regular basis.

Whilst sales and customer service will be the primary function of this role, the ideal candidate will also display a high standard of personal conduct, and deliver detailed and accurate monthly reports. You will be comfortable taking responsibility for the security of all company property, such as company car and electronic devices.

Apply online using this link: https://www.staxtradecentres.co.uk/careers/vacancy/181/sales-representative-north-west.htm

Contact:
Paula Ellis
Stax Trade Centres
Holloway Drive
Wardley Industrial Estate, Worsley
Manchester
M28 2LA

0161 728 8000

jobs.manchester@stax.uk.com

Following our recent significant expansion, we are actively looking to recruit an experienced and energetic Retail Managers to lead our Furniture and Christmas Departments within a number of our centres across the UK. 

We currently have vacancies at the following centres:

• Derby Garden Centre
• Bicester Avenue Garden Centre, Bicester
• Endsleigh Garden Centre, Plymouth
• Sanders Garden Centre, Burnham-on-Sea
• Nailsworth Garden Centre, Gloucestershire

As a Retail Manager you can make a real difference from day one as you will be directly involved in driving sales and maximising profit, creating inspirational visual displays, managing stock levels and leading and developing your team. Your attention to detail and commercial acumen will ensure our AB1 customers enjoy a shopping experience with a point of difference that encourages their loyalty and satisfaction.

To be successful in this role you will:

• be an experienced retailer with a background in similar product categories
• be able to perform under pressure and operate in a fast pace environment
• have the ability to create an exciting and inspiring environment for customers, using your visual merchandising skills and commercial awareness
• have good IT skills and be competent using our weekly sales and profit reports to effectively optimise sales and manage stock
• have the ability to achieve results by effectively leading, and motivating your team to ensure they perform to their best and provide outstanding customer service
• ensure store standards are maintained and floor layout meets the company guidelines

As well as a competitive salary and benefits, you can also expect to receive training and further career development opportunities.

Blue Diamond Group is the 2nd largest Garden Centre Group, with 30 centres throughout the UK and in the Channel Islands and we are continuously growing. Our centres are widely regarded as some of the best in the country and we have won many retail and restaurant awards. Our extensive refurbishment programme ensures that our centres and restaurants offer style and innovation in an aspirational environment which encourages loyalty and satisfaction from our customers. We invite you to look at our website and view pictures and videos of recent developments such as East Bridgford and Redfields.

If you like the sound of a fantastic fast-growing company with a great heritage and want to make a positive contribution to a business which in return helps all employees to maximise their full potential, then we would like to hear from you!

For further information please see our website at www.bluediamond.gg\careers or to apply please send your CV and covering letter to tom.grinnall@bluediamond.gg.

Home Retail Manager

Blue Diamond Group

40 Hours per week, Full Time Permanent Position

Following our recent significant expansion, we are actively looking to recruit an experienced and energetic Retail Managers to lead our Home and Indoor Living Departments within a number of our centres across the UK. 

We currently have vacancies at the following centres:

• Cardiff Garden Centre
• Endsleigh Garden Centre, Plymouth
• Percy Thrower Garden Centre, Shrewsbury
• Sanders Garden Centre, Burnham-on-Sea
• Weybridge Garden Centre, Surrey
• Nailsworth Garden Centre, Gloucestershire

As a Group, Blue Diamond generates more profit per customer than any other garden centre retailer in the ‘Home’ category and with product ranges including kitchen, bathroom, room fragrance, home accessories, children’s, books and cards we are the garden centre industry leader.

As a Home Retail Manger, you can make a real difference from day one as you will have responsibility for driving sales and maximising profits, creating stunning and aspirational visual displays, managing stock levels and motivating and developing your team.  Using our profit per customer benchmarking tools you will draw on your commercial acumen and experience to identify potential profit opportunities and to correct any missed opportunities.

To be the ideal candidate you will:

• have experience of working in a fast-paced retail environment
• be able to quickly gain an in-depth knowledge of our Home product range
• have a track-record for achieving targets and KPIs
• have a meticulous eye for detail, ensuring that our high retail standards are consistently maintained in terms of product placement, presentation, visual elevation and overall look and feel
• possess good commercial insight with an ability to take performance data and translate into sound retail action points
• have a clear understanding of the needs of our AB1 customers and constantly striving to ensure their expectations are always exceeded

Blue Diamond Group is the 2nd largest Garden Centre Group, with 30 centres throughout the UK and in the Channel Islands and we are continuously growing. Our centres are widely regarded as some of the best in the country and we have won many retail and restaurant awards. Our extensive refurbishment programme ensures that our centres and restaurants offer style and innovation in an aspirational environment which encourages loyalty and satisfaction from our customers. We invite you to look at our website and view pictures and videos of recent developments such as East Bridgford and Redfields.

If you like the sound of a fantastic fast-growing company with a great heritage and want to make a positive contribution to a business which in return helps all employees to maximise their full potential, then we would like to hear from you!

For further information please see our website at www.bluediamond.gg\careers or to apply please send your CV and covering letter to tom.grinnall@bluediamond.gg.

Plant Area Manager – Hardy Plants

Blue Diamond Group

40 Hours per week, Full Time Position

Following our recent significant expansion, we are looking for driven, experienced and entrepreneurial Hardy Plant Area Managers at a number of our centres across the UK.

We currently have vacancies at the following centres:

• Percy Thrower Garden Centre Shrewsbury
• Endsleigh Garden Centre, Plymouth
• Weybridge Garden Centre, Surrey

Our plant teams pride themselves on not only giving our customers the very best in product quality and choice, but also on providing them with an aspirational shopping experience through creating stunning visual displays. They work hard to constantly ensure stock availability, that our high standards of plant care and quality are always maintained and that our customers enjoy exceptional service and specialist advice.

As a plant area manager, you would be responsible for managing and leading your team in pulling all of this vital activity together so that our customers have a truly unique and memorable shopping experience. Your focus will always be on the customer and meeting their expectations, but you will also have responsibility for driving sales and profitability – so you will have a real sense of ownership and empowerment!

Our ideal Plant Area managers will:

• have experience of working in Garden Centres, although we are open to talking to candidates from any horticultural background
• have an energetic personality with an ability to easily engage with and connect with our AB1 target customers
• have a creative and entrepreneurial attitude towards plant retailing
• have excellent knowledge of hardy plants, plant care and maintenance
• be able to recognise and act on sales opportunities
• be meticulous to the detail in terms of product placement, standards, presentation, visual elevation and overall look and feel
• have an ability to manage and develop a team

As well as a rewarding career with potential for career development, you can expect a competitive salary, attractive staff discount and paid holidays.

Blue Diamond Group is the 2nd largest Garden Centre Group, with 30 centres throughout the UK and in the Channel Islands and we are continuously growing. Our centres are widely regarded as some of the best in the country and we have won many retail and restaurant awards. Our extensive refurbishment programme ensures that our centres and restaurants offer style and innovation in an aspirational environment which encourages loyalty and satisfaction from our customers. We invite you to look at our website and view pictures and videos of recent developments such as East Bridgford and Redfields.

If you like the sound of a fantastic fast-growing company with a great heritage and want to make a positive contribution to a business which in return helps all employees to maximise their full potential, then we would like to hear from you!

For further information please see our website at www.bluediamond.gg\careers or to apply please send you CV and covering letter to james.nuttall@bluediamond.gg.

Buyer/Category Manager (Home)

Blue Diamond Garden Centres

Based at:Any of our Garden Center locations

40 Hours per week, Full Time

Salary: Pay competitive with attractive rates for the right candidate. Includes profit related bonus, Heath care and Pension

Following our recent significant expansion we are looking for a driven Buyer/Category manager to join our Home team. 

Our aim on our Home and Indoor Living range is to deliver a point of difference to an AB1 consumer to trigger those impulse buys from customers who visit our centres for a multitude of reasons. Kitchen, Bathroom, Room fragrance, Home accessories, Children’s, books and cards are just some of the categories within our Home department. Our Group generates more profit per customer than any other garden centre retailer on ‘Home’ and we are looking for a person who is numbers driven analytical and passionate about driving profit. If you just want to select product and not control the retailing and execution in store this is NOT the job for you!

You will report to the Head of Home and your responsibilities will include:

• Range selection and implementation through allocations and merchandising briefs.
• Identifying opportunities to develop Own Brand/exclusive ranges.
• Using our profit per person benchmarking system to identify missed and potential profit opportunities within store for, correcting missed profit and delivering potential profit.
• Center visits alongside merchandising colleagues to support in driving profitability for the categories you manage.

Blue Diamond Group is the 2nd largest Garden Centre Group, with 30 centres throughout the UK and in the Channel Islands and we are continuously growing.  Our centres are widely regarded as some of the best in the country and we have won many retail and restaurant awards. Our extensive refurbishment programme ensures that our centres and restaurants offer style and innovation in an aspirational environment which encourages loyalty and satisfaction from our customers. We invite you to look at our website and view pictures and videos of recent developments such as East Bridgford and Redfields.

If you like the sound of a fantastic fast growing company with a great heritage and want to make a positive contribution to a business which in return helps all employees to maximise their full potential, then we would like to hear from you! Please send your CV to alan@bluediamond.gg.

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Premium self-watering planter brand, LECHUZA, has been announced as partner of Cultivating Retail. 

The event will take place at the East Midlands Conference Centre on 13th November 2018 and is aimed at tackling the issues and opportunities facing the garden retail supply chain. 

Lechuza’s Key Account Manager, Ian Riggs, discusses: “We’re pleased to be supporting Cultivating Retail. We are really looking forward to the event and to hear the discussions taking place. A key takeaway for LECHUZA this year has been the continued growth of the houseplant market - it will be interesting to discuss this, and the implications this has had for retailers, at the conference as well as new revenue avenues that it has opened up.”

With a vast collection of products and collections, LECHUZA creates many opportunities for retailers, which are set to expand in 2019. By removing the need for regular watering, they are perfectly designed to suit the needs of modern gardeners.

To discuss LECHUZA and the opportunities for your business, please contact Key Account Manager, Ian Riggs (ian_riggs@lechuza.com).

The HTA Benevolent Fund continues to work in confidence supporting members of the HTA with grants to assist them in difficult circumstances.

Set up by the HTA to care for the welfare of its members, past and present, the HTA Benevolent Fund has supported of several members this year.

Here are Christine and Peter’s stories:

Christine* has worked at an HTA member garden centre for ten years. Sadly, recent years have seen her husband suffer from ill health and have to cut down his working hours which has reduced their total family income. With limited money coming in they found themselves having to take out several loans to cover existing bills. This later resulted in escalating debt to payday loan companies which took up all of their regular income. 

As a member of the HTA through her employer, Christine approached the HTA Benevolent Fund for help. She requested a loan to clear the escalating debt. The HTA Benevolent Fund was pleased to be able to agree to an interest free loan to be paid back over 2 years through comfortable monthly instalments.

Christine is now relieved to be able to move forward positively now that her finances are under control.

*Name has been changed to protect client confidentiality

Peter* worked for an HTA member retailer for many years in a senior role with horticultural responsibilities. Later in life after leaving the role, Peter was diagnosed with multiple serious illnesses which forced him to retire for medical reasons. He was left severely disabled and housebound. As he is unable to work and reliant on upon benefits, Peter has limited income. He became in arrears with his household bill payments and so as a member of the HTA through his past employer, Peter approached the HTA Benevolent Fund for help.

The HTA Benevolent Fund was pleased to be able to support Peter by paying off his household bills.

*Name has been changed to protect client confidentiality

HTA Benevolent Fund helps members of the HTA including retailers, growers and landscapers who are facing hardship by providing modest grants and financial assistance. To be eligible for help, individuals need to work for a current HTA member. Or they need to have been employed by a business when it was an HTA member in the past.

If you need help please write to the board of Trustees at: The Administrator, HTA Benevolent Fund, Horticulture House, Chilton, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0RN or email htabenevolentfund@hta.org.uk.

For more information on our service visit https://hta.org.uk/about/htabenevolentfund.html

Charles Taylor have reported their best ever Glee.

The company introduced twenty new products into the market which were received superbly.

With another record breaking season behind them it was interesting to gauge how expansion would grow.  Richard Ball told GTN Xtra: "The new range of Garden Arbours and swings created record sales and the feedback was second to none.  We also introduced the box or assembled choice which gives the retailer flexibility on retail."

With the range complete for 2019 and record pre season orders already on file Richard believes this will lead Charles Taylor into further expansion; "we feel comfortable with our position in the market and are forever looking for new ideas to create the variety and concept the retailer expects."

New and innovative products, enthusiastic and optimistic retailers plus satisfied suppliers…it all added up to a successful and memorable Glee 2018. Oh, and there was plenty of speculation regarding the future of the remaining Wyevale Garden Centres during three hectic exhibition days…

2018 may have been a challenging year for the industry but this year’s Glee has proved to be an ideal tonic for both retailers and manufacturers.

The Beast from the East is long forgotten and the long hot summer, which brought its own challenges, is now behind us.

So, it was a welcome relief to feel a sense of optimism throughout Halls 6, 7, 8, 19 and 20.

GTN was heavily involved in organising the New Product Awards, which saw a fantastic array of innovative products in all categories.

All the exhibitors we spoke to said they were encouraged by the quality of visitors to their stands with plenty of business being secured for 2019 and beyond.

And it was refreshing to hear from garden centres who were looking forward to the next 12 months with renewed optimism.

Glee will be held on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in September 2019 and again this news was greeted with approval from retailers.

Of course, there was plenty of speculation surrounding the future of Wyevale Garden Centres and the remaining stores left within the portfolio. There were plenty of rumours suggesting that the ‘new’ Wyevale will retain 100-plus centres, and this on-going saga is sure to keep the industry guessing for a few more weeks yet.

But it’s great to know that an event like Glee can help to keep the industry moving forward with innovation, passion, optimism and dedication.

What was your verdict on Glee 2018?  Do let us know for GTN's upcoming review of Glee.  Please e-mail your verdict to trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk

Capital Gardens have purchased Studley Green Garden Store, near High Wycombe, from Hillview Garden Centres.

High Wycombe-based Studley Green Garden Centre has become the latest acquisition of Capital Gardens, which now consists of a portfolio of four garden centres.

Studley Green was operated by Hillview Garden Centres for four years, and its acquisition forms part of Capital Gardens UK expansion plans. The group, an independent company, also owns and manages sites at Alexandra Palace, Neals Nursery and Woods of Berkhamsted. Plans for the new centre will include Capital Gardens’ winning formula of expert customer service, quality plants and wider product offering, footfall driving events and strong ties with the local community.

A new Centre Manager, Phil Munn, formerly at Wyevale Bicester Avenue will oversee the change including new brands and enhanced plant ranges. All existing staff have been retained and are looking forward to working with Capital Gardens in improving the centre.

Phil says: “Studley Green is a fantastic intimate garden centre and I am looking forward to working with Capital Gardens and my new team to revitalise its offering as a place for gardeners to shop, relax and learn.”

Existing popular franchises will continue their offers including a ‘Doggy Day Care’ and Barking Barbers the ultimate groomers for dogs.

Colin Campbell-Preston (left), Managing Director at Capital Gardens, comments: “We are incredibly excited to have acquired Studley Green as part of our growing portfolio of garden centres across London and the south-east. We are looking forward to implementing our unique business blueprint based on a strong plant offering, and putting our signature Capital Garden stamp onto the centre to establish it as a leading garden centre in the local area. We want to keep Studley Green at the heart of the community and look forward to what the future has to hold!”

Boyd J Douglas-Davies (right), CEO of Hillview Garden Centres, added: “Over the last couple of years, we have been refining our model and as we worked through this process it become apparent that the site at Studley Green was not going to be suitable for this model. Whilst it is a superb, traditional centre it also sits outside of our geographical area of operations. Therefore, I am delighted that the team have joined Capital Gardens and confident they will flourish as part of their group”

One of the busiest stands and go-to destinations at Glee this week was the Westland exhibit. The company had a very successful show, receiving two New Product Awards.

• Best Wildlife & Pets – Peckish Squirrel Proof Suet Pellets
• Best Garden Care – Deadfast Rodenticides Range

Westland unveiled new products and developments across its entire portfolio. 

New Horizon 2019 triples the goodness with BIO3

One of the most exciting breakthroughs in growing media for many years – a new product produced from three natural and sustainable ingredients that is indistinguishable in performance, appearance, smell and texture from 100% peat based products – is launched at GLEE by Westland Horticulture.

Killing the competition with Westland’s most effective rodent control range

Westland is taking the rodent control category head-on by delivering a new range of rodenticide to the UK market that are proven to be effective after one dose, as well as premium traps and deterrent alternatives, providing something for every household and lifestyle when it comes to managing home invaders.

Peckish continues growth with new look products

Peckish is furthering its success with the launch of new products, new packaging and new messaging.

The brand, which has had 45% growth year-on-year, will be launching its new look and products at GLEE 2018.  Peckish this year sees its specialist range now showcasing a new look design, and extended offering with the addition of the new Squirrel Proof Suet Pellets.

Gro-Sure Smart Lawn Seed Fast Start – Extending the gardening season

Westland is extending its range of premium lawn seed products with the new Gro-Sure Fast Start, part of the Smart Lawn Seed range. It guarantees excellent results and gives gardeners the opportunity to sow and repair lawns earlier in the season than ever before.

Westland’s new Gro-Sure Fast Start Smart Lawn Seed tackles this problem head on using the proven aqua gel technology, a seed coating that encourages the absorption of water and nutrients, with a specially developed seed varieties that germinate at 7°C. This means the seeds germinate quickly even in cold conditions, giving consumers greater levels of success and satisfaction – and reinforcing the brand’s ‘Guaranteed to Grow’ motto. 

Five new composts mark 80 years of John Innes

Five new composts have been added to Westland Horticulture’s brand-leading range of John Innes composts, as 2019 marks 80 years since the original John Innes formulation was developed.

Westland’s straights range set to attract new consumers with re-launch

Westland has re-launched its market-leading straights and specialist feeds range in order to drive forward this key garden sector category.  The aim is to broaden the reach of these products through clearer and more focused packaging and new off fixture displays.

The specialist straights have been refocused to help drive a forgotten category to whole new audience.  Marloes Rots, brand manager plant feeds at Westland, commented, “On average straights deliver £1.17 more cash in the till vs non-straights, so this is a fundamental category that will benefit from opening up the market.”

Indoors: Turning Trends into Turnover

The houseplant market has seen remarkable growth over the last two years, with GfK reporting sales increasing by 32%, and it is clear to see that this is a trend set to continue.

Westland’s indoor plant care range has seen EPOS sales grow by 38%. New to this year’s range, Westland are launching Hydroleca clay granules. This decorative pot topper creates the perfect microclimate, absorbing water and slowly releasing it to the plant when it needs it.

Resolva Pro Weedkiller – The next generation weedkiller

Westland has announced the substantial growth of its best ever performing weedkiller – Resolva Pro Weedkiller. Retailers who sell Resolva 24H and have added Resolva Pro to their shelf, have seen incremental sales volumes of 17.4% and strong revenue growth in the category.

Daniella Constantine, Brand Manager at Resolva said: “Our support for this product is continuing, with a confirmed advertising investment of £1.2million during peak season in 2019. Our campaign has driven huge success for the brand, which resulted in EPOS volumes jumping by 75% in the week following the launch.”

Unwins launches revamped ranges to appeal to all

Unwins has refreshed its seed range in order to meet all customer needs – from new and novice gardeners through to those who are experienced and committed.   All of the packaging has been updated with a fresh new look and colourful, engaging design. Four new trend collections have also been launched, and  Gro-Sure SEED START, a pre-treatment that can be sprinkled into compost to provide better germination and establishment has been launched.

Introducing Westland’s NEW Lawncare Program – Complete Care to Achieve the Best Lawn

Westland is passionate about lawns and has grown to become the UK’s number one lawncare brand. In 2019 the company is taking things to the next level with the launch of its complete lawncare program for gardeners, designed to provide simple and effective solutions to common lawn problems throughout the year.

Aftercut Lawncare – A Cut Above the Rest

Westland continues to cement itself as the UK’s number one lawncare brand by improving its already successful Aftercut range with enhanced formulations and the latest technology to provide gardeners with even better results.  Aftercut All in One now has a brand new formulation allowing gardeners to feed their lawn, and kill weeds and moss all in one application.

The Aftercut range forms part of Westland’s new Lawncare Program, designed to provide gardeners with simple solutions to lawn problems throughout the year. It is supported by a £2million investment plan.

Westland partners with Plaswood Group to reduce plastic waste

Westland Horticulture has announced a new recycling initiative with Plaswood Group, a market leader in recycled plastics, which will see used Westland growing media bags being turned into garden benches.

The benches are a traditional picnic style bench, with each being made from over 1,100 compost bags

Resolva Xtra Clean – Cementing Resolva’s Leadership in Path & Patio 

Westland’s ten years of innovation, coupled with its phenomenally successful weedkiller and mosskiller product range in the Path and Patio category, has seen the market leader expand its offering with the launch of the new Resolva Xtra Clean.

There are indications in the GTN Bestsellers data and from conversations at Glee that for the first time in a few years we could be in for a ‘proper’ Autumn gardening season.

Growing Media and plant sales were up on last year for the first week of September and garden centres were reporting fast sell through of bulbs for autumn planting during Glee conversations.

After the hot summer there are gaps in borders that need to be filled already and lawns are being repaired and renovated as seen in the Garden Products chart.

The Glee New Product Showcase, organised and presented by GTN, was packed full of great new products for next year and we are looking forward to seeing many of them feature in the Top 50 charts.

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year (week 36)

• Garden Products - down 19%
• Growing Media - up 36%
• Veg-2-Gro - up 27%
• Wild Bird Care - down 8%
• All Plants Index - up 15%
• All Items Index - up 7%

To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk

Garden King has completed the purchase of its site in Newhall, Swadlincote. The site was rented from neighbouring Buildbase (Grafton Merchanting Ltd) since starting trading in 2000. 

Now that the purchase of the site is complete, Garden King has gained extra space to increase the popular caravan storage facility, as well as gaining extra car parking, two additional units on the site and the woods that the border the site too.

Garden King has had a fantastic year of trading, with four record sales months in a row (from May to August), and a sales growth of 19% for the year so far.

Garden King looks forward to finally being able to develop the site further to enhance the customer environment and secure their future at the site.

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 2016 as well as 2017 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period.

Access is by subscription only.  For £145.00 per year you and your team can have access to the most up-to-date gardening sales analysis that has already helped many UK garden centres increase their sales.  To subscribe call 01733 775700, e-mail karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

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

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

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

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

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

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

GTN Bestsellers is the only industry source of weekly garden centre sales information, collating Epos data from centres with an aggregate turnover in excess of £120m.

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

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

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

Lunch!, the UK's biggest food-to-go showcase of the year, at Excel last week provided garden centres with potential new catering products and retail food and drink lines along with ideas for packaging and recycling of coffee cups.

A new soft drink twist, the Seltzer, has good horticultural links with Hibiscus & Rose, Cucumber and Yuzu flavours.  Birch water is also an upcoming trend that could fit in a gardening context.

There were upmarket ice PIMS lollies whihc could be ideal for next summer, especially around a Chelsea promotion.  And how about this for a great bit of soft drink visual merchandising - a very cold bath!

Alternative and compostable takeway cup options were on display including the Butterfly Cup that doesn't need a lid.

On the food side aswell as plenty of cake vendors there were a noceable number of new fruit products for children which could sell well alongside soft play areas and in children's lunch boxes

Did you know the Soil Association now has an accreditation for cafes and restaurants using and serving organic food? Could that be a great addition to your marketing power? Find out more at: https://www.soilassociation.org/certification/food-drink/organic-served-here-award/

See our gallery of pictures from Lunch! below.  If you weren't able to attend but would like more information about any of the above please e-mail: trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk