In This Issue
Vote now for the Best Buyers of 2022 - The Buyers Power List at Glee - Voting starts today
New products, Glee style...in association with GTN. Last call for New Product Showcase entries
Impatiens Walleriana 'Glimmer Appleblossom' wins Best in Show at New Plant Awards
Have your customers singing in the rain!
Wildlife World's new products at Glee 2022
Zero In provides big opportunity for more sales of outdoor insect control products
Come celebrate 30 years in business with EKJU
Average start to June, according to GTN Bestsellers
Business as usual at Key Essentials after the untimely death of Mark Smith
Frosts in discussion with Webbs over sale of Millets Farm Garden Centre
Bumper Glee Preview in GTN June issue - read online here
Sweet Pea 'Peter Seabrook' wins Best New Plant award
Making peat free work for everyone - watch video discussion from the Glee studio
Lava-Lite named Green Start-Up award winners
Zest enables Motor Neurone sufferer to conquer Snowdon
Top gardeners take home prestigious awards
LifestyleGarden issues rallying call to retailers
Petunia grandiflora Bee’s Knees wins FleuroStar Award
Perennial joins with wholesale nurseries to launch new ‘Plant for Perennial’ promotion
Horticultural professional named Young International Grower of the Year
Award on the cards for Highfield Garden World
Bents creates new job roles to focus on its people
Encouraging customers to make the switch to peat free gardening
GTN Interviews: Steve Morgan, Zest - Nick Rubins, Cherry Lane Garden Centres
Get your copy of GTN Xtra
Petunias outsell Zonal Geraniums
Tomorite dominates
Record year for Veg-2-Gro
Average start to June for growing media sales
Fat Snax are bestsellers
Wyevale Nurseries unveils printed promotional catalogue
Shortlist announced for inaugural AIPH World Green City Awards 2022
Perennial develops ‘Support for Families’ programme amid rising cost of living
The best of last week's
Fire at Blue Diamond’s Grosvenor Garden Centre
Graf UK win at GIMA Golf Day
Dobbies expands compost bag recycling scheme across UK
Experience the Summer of Garden Love at Glee 2022
NEC + Heaven Sends Showroom = The Perfect Trip
Treadstone to follow 2021 new product award with further innovations
GROW YOUR sales...with the new Global Journey Seed Ball Dispenser
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week
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Vote now for the Best Buyers of 2022 - The Buyers Power List at Glee - Voting starts today

Click here to vote for the best buyers of 2022

 

Voting closes at midnight on Monday 27th June with the winners announced and celebrated on The Stage at Glee on Tuesday 28th June at 5:00pm.

 

Nominations for The Glee Buyers Power List 2021 include buyers from: 

Alton Garden Centre, Aylett Nurseries, B&M, Barton Grange, Baytree Garden Centre, Bents Garden & Home, Blue Diamond, British Garden Centres, Burford Garden Company, Caulders Garden Centres, Charlies Stores, Cherry Lane Garden Centres, Chessington Garden Centre, Choice Marketing, Crocus, Dobbies, Downtown Garden Centre, Fakenham Garden Centre, Fron Goch, GardenSite, Garsons Esher, Gates Garden Centre, Haskins, Hilliers, Hillmount, John Lewis, Klondyke, Knights Godstone, Laylocks Garden Centre, Longacres, Marie Curie, New Leaf Plant Centre, Notcutts, Pets at Home, Perrywood, Planters Tamworth, Polhill Garden Centre, Poundland, Primrose.com, Pughs Garden Centres, QD Stores, RHS Wisley, Robert Dyas, Rosebourne Garden Centres, Sapcote, Silverbirch, Squires, St Peters Worcester, Stax Trade Centres, Stewarts Garden Centres, Summerhill Nurseries, The Old Railway Line, The Prosper Group, Webbs, Wilko, Yarnton Home & Garden.


 

Click here to go to the voting page

 

Voting closes at midnight on Monday 27th June with the winners announced and celebrated on The Stage at Glee on Tuesday 28th June at 5:00pm.

 

Buyers nominated for the Buyers Power List 2022 include: 

 

Aaron Saunders and Matthew Ball @ Stax Trade Centres
Adam Szabo @ Charlies Stores
Alan Mercer @ Hillmount
Amy Green @ British Garden Centres
Andrew Porwal @ Sapcote
Andrew Wood @ Silverbirch
Andy Harris @ Haskins
Andy Wrightson @ Webbs
Bryn Saysell @ Blue Diamond
Dan Kirby @ British Garden Centres
Dan Reep @ Squires
Dani Loftus @ Marie Curie
David Danning @ Blue Diamond
David Hibbert @ Stax Trade Centres
Edith Mercer @ Hillmount

Emma Bostock @ Pets at Home

Gemma Mercer @ Hillmount Cheshire
Glen Sheldrake @ Burford Garden Company
Hannah Warr @ Laylocks Garden Centre
Jackie Cook @ Notcutts
Jay Bunker @ Alton Garden Centre
John Birch @ Baytree Garden Centre
Kati Taylor @ Fron Goch
Keith Wiblin @ Downtown Garden Centre
Kevin Beckett @ Yarnton Home & Garden
Kevin Jones @ Poundland
Liz Brennan @ Dobbies
Matt Shorter @ Longacres
Mike Cook @ Choice Marketing
Nick Chutter @ Summerhill Nurseries
Nick Haydon @ Fakenham Garden Centre
Nigel Gates @ Gates Garden Centre
Paul Smith @ Chessington Garden Centre

Paul Williams @ British Garden Centres
Plants Team @ Hillmount 

Phil Spencer @ New Leaf Plant Centre
Robin Mercer @ Hillmount
Sue Shaw @ B&M
Taylor Baines @ Blue Diamond
Terry Head @ Stewarts Garden Centres
The Bourne family @ Perrywood
The Mercer family @ Hillmount

 

And garden centre buying teams from:

 

Aylett Nurseries
B & M
Barton Grange
Bents Garden & Home
Blue Diamond
British Garden Centres
Caulders Garden Centres
Cherry Lane Garden Centres
Chessington Garden Centre
Choice Marketing Team
Crocus
GardenSite LLP
Garsons Esher
Gates Garden Centre
Hillier on-line
Hilliers
John Lewis
Klondyke
Knights Godstone
Longacres
Planters Tamworth
Polhill Garden Centre
Primrose.com
Pughs Garden Centres
QD Stores
RHS Wisley
Robert Dyas
Rosebourne Garden Centres
Squires
Squires Badshot Lea
St Peters Worcester
Stax Trade Centres 
The Old Railway Line
The Prosper Group
Wilko

 

Vote now using this link

 

Voting closes at midnight on Monday 27th June with the winners announced and celebrated on The Stage at Glee on Tuesday 28th June at 5:00pm. See you there!

 

New products, Glee style...in association with GTN. Last call for New Product Showcase entries

The Glee New Product Awards, in association with Garden Trade News, is one of Glee’s most inspirational features and is sure to be the place for buyers to source the most unique and sought-after products during Glee 2022. The showcase features the latest and greatest products on the market, offering visitors a chance to see all the newest products all in one place.

 

With over 350 new products expected to be entered and displayed in the Glee New product Showcase, exhibitors need to make sure they have made their entries via the Glee Exhibitor Zone by midnight on Thursday 23rd June 2022.


 

The Glee New Product Awards, in association with Garden Trade News, is one of Glee’s most inspirational features and is sure to be the place for buyers to source the most unique and sought-after products during Glee 2022. The showcase features the latest and greatest products on the market, offering visitors a chance to see all the newest products all in one place.

 

Exhibitors who display their products also get entered into The Glee New Product Awards. The winners are decided by a panel of expert judges who award the best products in their categories based on innovation, saleability and aesthetics.

 

The Top 3 products in each category will also have the chance to make a live pitch to the judges and the Glee audience as part of the judging process.

 

New Product Awards Glee 2022

  • Plants, Seeds and Bulbs
  • Growing Materials (growing media, plant feeds, pest & weed control)
  • Growing Accessories (cloches, seed trays, hanging baskets plant supports garden gloves, garden kneelers, gardening clothing, etc)
  • Garden Growing Containers (All pots, planters, indoor & outdoor)
  • Garden Decoration (Garden ornaments, statuary, garden lighting, wall art etc)
  • Garden Tools & Machinery (Hand and powered garden tools)
  • Landscaping & Garden Buildings (Paving, pergolas, garden rooms, sheds & greenhouses)
  • Garden Leisure & Entertaining (BBQ's, garden furniture & accessories etc)
  • Wild Bird Care and Wildlife Products (Wild bird feeds, feeders, wildlife products etc)
  • Homewares, Giftware, Toys & Games, and Clothing
  • Pet Food
  • Pet Health & Beauty
  • Pet Accessories
  • Retail Services & Experiences (Physical & digital)

Plus:

  • Best of British
  • Eco-Initiative
  • Overall Best New Product

With over 350 new products expected to be entered and displayed in the Glee New product Showcase, exhibitors need to make sure they have made their entries via the Glee Exhibitor Zone. Entries close at midnight on Thursday 23rd June 2022.

 

We look forward to seeing you at the Glee New Products Showcase and hope you’ll be able to join us for the announcement of the Glee New Product Award winners on Wednesday evening, 29th June 2022 at 5:00pm on The Stage at Glee.

Impatiens Walleriana 'Glimmer Appleblossom' wins Best in Show at New Plant Awards

Impatiens Walleriana 'Glimmer Appleblossom' has been recognised has Best in Show at the New Plant Awards at this year’s HTA National Plant Show...


Impatiens Walleriana 'Glimmer Appleblossom' has been recognised has Best in Show at the New Plant Awards at this year’s HTA National Plant Show.

 

The show is takes place at Stoneleigh Park, Coventry.

 

This plant, which also won the Annuals category, is recognised by its stunning colour, and features large, iridescent rose-like booms. The well-branched, mounded, and trailing plants are covered with double flowers and are suitable for 10-30cm pots and hanging baskets. The impatiens also features high resistance to Plasmospara destructor, the cause of Impatiens DownyMildew.

 

Pippa Greenwood, HTA Judge said, "This year there were more entries than ever before, with 137 covering all five categories. The standard of entries too was brilliant, making our team of judges work even harder than usual.

 

“The houseplant category was particularly popular, with the emphasis being on phenomenal foliage. This year’s Houseplants winner, Alocasia ‘Silver Dragon’, boasts sturdy, well-shaped foliage with an almost metallic sheen. 

 

“Malus ‘Halloween’ (Frank P Matthews) offers distinctly ribbed crab apple fruits and won the ‘Trees and Conifers’ category.  For herbaceous perennials the judges chose Geranium x Kelly Anne, a delightful addition to any border.  

 

“The striking almost glowing orange, red and gold foliage of Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Magic Ball’ won first place in Shrubs & Climbers for Wyevale Nurseries. 

 

“All these plants illustrated the exceedingly high quality of this year’s entries, but it was Impatiens ‘Glimmer Appleblossom’ (Ball) which stole the show, winning best in the Annuals category and Best in Show - not only for its good looks, but also its resistance to downy mildew."

 

“The New Plant Awards are the beating heart of the show and create an area bursting with inspiration for our visitors. This year there has once again been over 100 entries – meaning that over the history of the show over 1,000 new plants have been showcased.”

 

Other winners included:

  • Trees & Conifers category: Frank P Matthews- Malus Halloween. Recognised by its white spring flowers, these are followed in the autumn by yellow-orange crab apples that are ribbed in appearance looking like mini pumpkin in time for Halloween.
  • Houseplants category: Javado- Alocasia Silver Dragon. A cultivar from the baginda line, this Alocasia is characterized by the compactness of the plant in combination with the hardness of the leaf. This also ensures a long shelf life
  • Herbaceous Perennials category: Newey- Geranium x hybrida Kelly Anne. This plant is neat and compact plant and is resistant to diseases, heat, and moisture. It boasts bright pink flowers with a darker pink vein and the flowering period is very long: from late spring to the first frost
  • Shrubs & Climbers Wyevale category: Physocarpus opulifolius 'Magic Ball'. This shrub changes leaf colours four times, starting in spring as bright yellow, this deepens to orange gold before entering the summer months to its final colours of red then purple.
Have your customers singing in the rain!
GTN Xtra Promotion

In a partnership with Blue Diamond Garden and Living Centres, Taylor Made Designs has supplied custom branded umbrellas, in their distinctive brand blue, to help customers browse the outdoor aisles and transport products from the tills to their cars whilst avoiding direct exposure to the rain...


Even though we are heading into the summer months, the unpredictability of the British weather means we are never far away from a rain shower or two. This does not need to impact on the experience of your customers.

 

In a partnership with Blue Diamond Garden and Living Centres, Taylor Made Designs has supplied custom branded umbrellas, in their distinctive brand blue, to help customers browse the outdoor aisles and transport products from the tills to their cars whilst avoiding direct exposure to the rain. Umbrellas were stored by exit points, with customers invited to ‘help themselves’.

 

James Taylor, MD at Taylor Made Designs, says:  “We might not be able to control the weather but we can control the customers’ experience. Offering a little comfort in the rain, enables people to continue to shop, rather than make a dash for their cars before completing a purchase.”

 

If you are interested in exploring the wide array of customisable merchandise available at Taylor Made Designs, contact the team on: 44(0) 1202 473311 or email: hello@taylormadedesigns.co.uk

 
Wildlife World's new products at Glee 2022
GTN Xtra Promotion

Wildlife World is back at Glee 2022 with a wide range of new innovative wildlife and gardening products – see us at stand 6B62-C63...


 

Wildlife World is back at Glee 2022 with a wide range of new innovative wildlife and gardening products – see us at stand 6B62-C63. 

 

The latest products from Wildlife World continue our mission to bring more sustainable and environmentally friendly products to the market.

 

Our latest range of products from the Plastic Free Gardening range has been awarded for being both sustainable and innovative. Another product to lead the way in creating a Fairly Traded and sustainable marketplace for gardeners. The entire Plastic Free Gardening range of seed trays and RootCoach are made from natural, Fairly Traded, FSC-certified rubber and can be re-used every growing season for over a decade. These unique seed trays are now award-winning after picking up the Best New Product Award at this year's Garden Press Event, as voted for by the industry.

 

Wildlife Worlds' award-winning and hugely popular handmade Fair-Trade Artisan bird nesters, released in 2021, have been joined this year at Glee 2022 with our Natural Bee Skeps release. Handmade by the same Fair-Trade artisans in Bangladesh, these bee skeps are similarly constructed using natural materials and recycled saris for those distinctive and unique decorative patterns.

 

We'll also be launching the beautiful Bali Range, a brand new product range released in May 2022, handmade and hand-painted by Balinese artisans in a genuinely authentic Indonesian style. The entire range is constructed using sustainably sourced timber and has been lovingly hand-painted using a dot painting technique. The Bali Range comprises three handmade products: a spacious bird nest box, a hanging bird table, and a solitary bee house. There's truly something for everyone to add a distinctive splash of colour to their garden or outdoor space whilst helping our nation's treasured wildlife.

 

Come and see all these new products at Glee 2022, plus the newly released Andaluz Ceramic Bee Nester and Water is Life Bird Bath, and our Cotswold Granaries Wildlife Food range in 100% home-compostable packaging at the Wildlife World stand 6B62-C63.

Zero In provides big opportunity for more sales of outdoor insect control products
GTN Xtra Promotion

Zero In Summer Insect Control is a complete range of more than 40 poison-free products designed exclusively for use outside. From excluding wasps from a children’s party to keeping flies away from the barbecue, during the day and into the evening, there’s a perfect ZeroIn product.


 

Outdoor living and entertaining has become a huge trend over the past two years, whilst travelling further afield for socialising with friends and family has been restricted.

 

However, warm weather and long evenings outside are also the perfect conditions for invading insects. Wasps, mosquitos, flies, and ants can all spoil a perfect outdoor party if they get out of hand. So, it’s not surprising that the market for specialist outdoor insect control products seems to have grown rapidly over the past few years too.

 

Zero In Summer Insect Control is a complete range of more than 40 poison-free products designed exclusively for use outside. From excluding wasps from a children’s party to keeping flies away from the barbecue, during the day and into the evening, there’s a perfect ZeroIn product.

 

To take advantage of this rapidly growing demand, STV have developed attractive and adaptable display solutions that are designed to make it easy to locate ZeroIn close to other outdoor leisure categories. Volume lines are available in the unique ‘stack-a-pack’ format which makes it easy to create instant displays wherever they are needed.

 

 

In addition, there is a full, permanent range merchandising solution in development which will be launched at GLEE (28 – 30 June 2022).

 

Nick Hood, Marketing Manager, said: “We think there’s a big opportunity for more sales of outdoor insect control products. Displayed close to the outdoor living category, these products present a great impulse purchase opportunity. That’s why we’re investing in new merchandising equipment and we’ve made all the volume lines available in our new Stack-a-pack bulk displays that are quick and easy to position when needed.”

 

To find out more about the Zero In range of outdoor insect control, go to www.stvuk.com

 

STV International Ltd Forge House,

Little Cressingham,

Thetford,

Norfolk, IP25 6ND, GB

Phone 01953 881580                

Email info@stvuk.co.uk

Come celebrate 30 years in business with EKJU
GTN Xtra Promotion

EKJU are celebrating their past success at Glee 2022 as well as looking forward to the 2023 outdoor living season...


 

In the last 30 years EKJU have achieved a renowned reputation for quality timber gardening products across Europe and have introduced hundreds of functional products that consumers love to use in their gardens. 

 

This month sees a road show of summer celebrations ending at Glee 2022 where EKJU are celebrating their past success and looking forward to the 2023 outdoor living season.

 

Four founding fathers with one vision

Egons, Klauss, Juris & Uldis were the founders of EKJU in 1992, who had a vision to create garden furniture that is crafted with the care and attention needed to ensure the product lasts as long as it takes to regrow a new tree. Since 1992 the company have adopted this ethos throughout their range of products. The focus on the end user and attention to detail across the business nurtures a drive for the highest product and service standards.

 

EKJU are now one of Europe’s biggest manufacturers and exporters of timber Garden Furniture and have been exporting products throughout Europe for over 25 years, with 98% of EKJU’s total product volume being exported across Europe using long standing logistical networks throughout the continent to help deliver great customer service. Their extensive product range is manufactured using northern European live wood that is ideal for use on Garden Furniture due to its high density and durable qualities. 

 

Over 30 years, EKJU have kept a consistent vision and through constant refinement of their product assortment. Throughout this period EKJU’s genuine care for the environment has been central to their operations. EKJU have carbon neutral status, use the most durable of FSC timber from local forests and have zero timber waste at their manufacturing site in Latvia.

 

Bringing people together and closer to nature

As part of the vision of the founding fathers, EKJU aim to bring people together and closer to nature via their outdoor living solutions. Their products are often enjoyed the most in the summer months bringing loved ones together at garden parties and picnics. EKJU’s products that have become central to summer celebrations include Picnic Tables, Garden Benches and Table Sets, which they supply to retail organisations of all sizes. This range of garden furniture is comprehensive and provides multiple furniture solutions for retailers to supply consumers. 

 

In the last 10 years, the range has been extended to include Grow Your Own products, which has been a popular trend throughout Europe in the last 15 years. EKJU have many shapes and sizes of Raised Beds, which cater for differing garden sizes. There are also many styles of Planters which can house vibrant summer blooms, complementing the furniture range. Like EKJU’s Garden Furniture, this range is constructed well using the best quality FSC timber which is treated against wood rot.

 

Come and join the summer celebrations

You are invited to kick start the summer and celebrate EKJU’s 30th year in business, whilst discovering what is available for the 2023 garden furniture and grow your own product range. Come to the EKJU stand (6H40-J41) in Halls 8-20 at the Glee Birmingham exhibition NEC 28th – 30th June for a celebratory drink and to chat about your requirements for 2023.

 

Please email ekju@ekju.lv if you wish to discuss the EKJU range prior to the show or alternatively visit www.ekju.com to browse the product range.

Average start to June, according to GTN Bestsellers

While sales for the first two weeks of June have been significantly down on 2021 levels, they were 5.5% higher than the first two weeks of June 2019 and 0.3% higher than the average start to June between 2011 and 2019...


 

While sales for the first two weeks of June have been significantly down on 2021 levels, they were 5.5% higher than the first two weeks of June 2019 and 0.3% higher than the average start to June between 2011 and 2019.  

 

Whilst we hear sales are slow this year, that is true compared to 2021 and 2020 but actually on par with a normal June, which given the indifferent weather and the Jubilee at the start of the month isn’t such a bad picture to paint.

 

Now we prepare to head off for a summer of trade shows, starting with the National Plant Show, followed by Glee and then Solex.

 

With garden centres having high stock levels, after all the pre-season ordering last Autumn, this year’s trade shows will be the key place to see what is really new for 2023, New products always drive sales, particularly with new customers in mind and there looks to be a lot of ‘New’ being prepared for the shows. There’s also the possibility of picking up some bargain deals as suppliers also try to clear warehouse space for next season.

 

We look forward to seeing you at the shows. Do come and find us around the Glee New Product Showcase and on The Stage at Glee when products are being pitched to the judges. See you there.

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week in 2021: week 23.

  • Garden Products Top 50 – down 38%
  • Growing Media Top 50 – down 48%
  • Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – down 35%
  • Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – down 13%

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week in 2021: week 23

  • All Plants with Barcode index – down 42%
  • All Items with Barcode index – down 31%

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

Business as usual at Key Essentials after the untimely death of Mark Smith

The team at GTN Xtra are sad to report that Mark Smith of Key Essentials passed away unexpectedly in his sleep recently...


The team at GTN Xtra are sad to report that Mark Smith of Key Essentials passed away unexpectedly in his sleep recently.  Mark was 53.

 

Amanda Smith has told GTN Xtra: "Mark and I worked together, and whilst we are in shock we intend to continue his good work."

 

"We will be represented by Giromagi at Glee this year on the Key Essentials/Love Tillys stand.  Air plant orders can be placed in the normal way via our website, www.keyessentials.co.uk,  emailed to amanda@keyessentials.co.uk, or ring the office on 01462 675858."

 

 
Frosts in discussion with Webbs over sale of Millets Farm Garden Centre

Frosts is currently in discussions with Webbs about the potential sale of its garden centre at Millets Farm. As reported in GTN Xtra the company is also talking to Notcutts over selling its centre at Brampton...


Frosts is currently in discussions with Webbs about the potential sale of its garden centre at Millets Farm. As reported in GTN Xtra the company is also talking to Notcutts over selling its centre at Brampton.

 

Frosts said “We believe that Webbs and Notcutts share a similar set of values in the way they operate their garden centres and have now therefore entered into an exclusive dialogue about Webbs becoming future prospective owners of Frosts Millets Farm and Notcutts becoming prospective owners of Frosts Brampton.”

 

While these discussions are continuing Frosts will not be making any further comment.

Bumper Glee Preview in GTN June issue - read online here

GTN June 2022 - Bumper Glee Preview.

  • Westland Glee 6 page preview
  • Making peat free work for everyone – the transition to peat-free growing media
  • Chelsea Trends for retailers 2022
  • Woodmansterne Glee Greetings
  • Easy wood splitting with Fandango
  • Digestate peat free from Bloomin Amazing
  • Get summer ready with Onduline
  • GTN’s Summertime Glee Preview
  • Glee Exhibitor News
  • Primeur will keep the tills ringing in 2023
  • Clever ideas from Clever Pots
  • Hassle-free greenhouse sales – Vitavia
  • Floral Thursday at Glee
  • LOFA Column – New booking system for SOLEX
  • HTA Column – Make the most of trade shows
  • GIMA Column –    No time to take a breath yet

 

 

GTN June 2022 - Bumper Glee Preview.  In this issue:

  • Westland Glee 6 page preview
  • Making peat free work for everyone – the transition to peat-free growing media
  • Chelsea Trends for retailers 2022
  • Woodmansterne Glee Greetings
  • Easy wood splitting with Fandango
  • Digestate peat free from Bloomin Amazing
  • Get summer ready with Onduline
  • GTN’s Summertime Glee Preview
  • Glee Exhibitor News
  • Primeur will keep the tills ringing in 2023
  • Clever ideas from Clever Pots
  • Hassle-free greenhouse sales – Vitavia
  • Floral Thursday at Glee
  • LOFA Column – New booking system for SOLEX
  • HTA Column – Make the most of trade shows
  • GIMA Column –    No time to take a breath yet

 

Sweet Pea 'Peter Seabrook' wins Best New Plant award

Sweet Pea 'Peter Seabrook' won the Best New Plant award at BBC Gardeners’ World Live...


 

Sweet Pea 'Peter Seabrook' won the Best New Plant award at BBC Gardeners’ World Live.

 

Nursery/breeder: Sow Successful Ltd 

Plant Name: Sweet Pea ‘Peter Seabrook’ 

Genus: Sweet Pea 

Variety: ‘Peter Seabrook’ 

 

Plant information 

‘Peter Seabrook’ is a new Sweet Pea variety, named in tribute to the veteran plantsman. Key characteristics:  

  • Early and very long flowering 
  • Highly scented 
  • Long stemmed 
  • Multi-bloomed   
  • A vigorous grower 
  • Highly resistant to disease and grows problem-free 

Growing conditions: 

  • Bright and sunny position 
  • Lots of air movement 
  • Plenty of space 
  • Best grown on sticks in the middle or towards the back of a border  

Background 

At the age of six, Sweet Peas were the first seeds that Peter Seabrook bought with his pocket money. He grew the plants in the family garden, then cut and sold the blooms to the local florist. By the age of 14, he was an accomplished grower and continued to be so his entire life. Peter Seabrook spotted this new Sweet Pea at the Sow Successful trial ground in 2021 and recognised its potential. He was extremely enthusiastic about it from the start, so when Peter died in January 2022, the naming of the new variety was the perfect tribute. HM The Queen was presented with a posy of the new Sweet Peas at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show. 

 

Availability 

Sweet Pea ‘Peter Seabrook’ seeds will be available to buy early autumn 2022 for September and October planting. Autumn sowing is recommended for the best crop. £1.00 from every packet sold will be donated to the Floral Fantasia garden at RHS Hyde Hall, created and maintained by Peter Seabrook. 10,000 packets will be available in 2022, increasing in 2023. 

Making peat free work for everyone - watch video discussion from the Glee studio

In the run up to Glee, GTN's Trevor Pfeiffer hosted a round table discussion in the Glee Studio with Marcus Eyles, Roger Crookes and Adam Wigglesworth about making peat free gardening work for everyone with a special focus on making the most of the opportunities for the future...


In the run up to Glee, GTN's Trevor Pfeiffer hosted a round table discussion in the Glee Studio with Marcus Eyles, Roger Crookes and Adam Wigglesworth about making peat free gardening work for everyone with a special focus on making the most of the opportunities for the future.

 

“The past is gone,” says Roger. “There's an exciting future ahead. We're not powerless in this. We have huge power to influence and co-operate with this amazing trend. I'm excited.”

 

Adam says the industry shouldn’t let perfection in gardening get in the way of progress. “We need to go forward and customers want us to do that and they want to do the right thing. We need to facilitate it. We shouldn’t let perfection hold us back.”

 

Marcus says the industry should now be proactive and has seen it coming together on the peat free issue, which has fast tracked and gained momentum really quickly. “We should be sharing [the issues], discussing them and getting on the front foot rather than being caught lagging behind.”

 

“We’ve got an opportunity,” says Adam. “Let’s grasp it”.

 

 

https://www.gleebirmingham.com/news-and-views/successful-peat-free-growing-world

 
Lava-Lite named Green Start-Up award winners

Lava-Lite is named the Midlands Green Start-Up of the year winner at the final of the Start-Up Awards National Series...


 

Lava-Lite is named the Midlands Green Start-Up of the year winner at the final of the Start-Up Awards National Series. 

 

The Start-Up Awards National Series debuted this year to highlight the dynamic startup scene across the country that skyrocketed during the pandemic. 

 

The awards were judged by a panel of prominent judges, including successful entrepreneurs such as Stefania Pellegrino of Purely, Tom Walker of Holy Moly Dips and serial entrepreneur Piers Linney.

 

The company said: “The Green Start-Up award recognises start-ups developing products, processes, or services that are resulting in significant environmental improvements. We are committed to making a real difference to protect the environment as all our products are completely non-toxic, pH neutral and they do not emit any toxins or contaminants. They are also 100% natural and biodegradable, meaning they can be dug into the ground to help give soil the nutrient boost it needs.”

Zest enables Motor Neurone sufferer to conquer Snowdon

Managing Director of garden furniture, grow your own and decorative garden structure specialist, Zest, Steve Morgan along with fellow fundraiser for motor neurone disease research, Robert Boyns of Boyns Information Systems Ltd joined forces to support MND sufferer Ian Flatt as he and his team took on Snowdon...


 

Managing Director of garden furniture, grow your own and decorative garden structure specialist, Zest, Steve Morgan along with fellow fundraiser for motor neurone disease research, Robert Boyns of Boyns Information Systems Ltd joined forces to support MND sufferer Ian Flatt as he and his team took on Snowdon. 

 

Ian, who had always wanted to scale the iconic mountain, was tackling the terrain in a custom-built off-road wheelchair while his team of helpers carried ramps and used a pulley system to enable him to manoeuvre over the rougher ground.  

 

Steve had Robert who recently raised over £28,500 for motor neurone research by completing the Doddie Cup 500 set off with Ian at 9.30 am and despite the poor weather at the start completed the challenge by 7pm.  Steve and Robert, both familiar with the terrain, supported Ian’s team by helping to carry the ramps for much of the way, describing themselves as the ‘Welsh pit ponies’, while teammates helping Ian with the wheelchair were the ‘true workers’.

 

Commenting on the day, Steve Morgan said, “It was an extremely hard challenge but worthwhile for such a great charity; and it was humbling and inspiring to see Ian’s courage and good humour throughout.

 

“Despite the weather being very changeable at the start, the sun came out on the way back down and the views started opening up - Snowdon looked magnificent.”

 

Steve and Robert are part of a team of former rugby players raising funds for the My Name’s Doddie Foundation whose vision is: A World Free of MND. Doddie Weir OBE is one of rugby’s most recognisable personalities. He earned sixty-one caps for Scotland during a successful playing career, represented the British and Irish Lions on their successful tour to South Africa in 1997, and won championships with his two club sides, Melrose, and Newcastle Falcons.  Anyone wishing to make donations in support of the My Name’s Doddie Foundation can do so here.

 

Over the last eleven years, Zest employees and their P&A Group colleagues have raised more than £100,000 for a variety of charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith Children’s Hospices, Cancer Research UK, Action for Children, Alzheimer’s Society, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and Meningitis Now.  Zest was established in 2005 to bring high quality, sustainable 

3

timber garden products to garden centres, online retailers, builders’ merchants, and major purchasing groups across the UK. 

 

For further information about Zest’s GYO, decorative and furniture products, visit www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk.

Top gardeners take home prestigious awards

Back and as big as ever, BBC Gardeners’ World Live kicked off its four-day garden-extravaganza at Birmingham’s NEC with the announcement of the ‘Best in Show’ award winners...

 

Frances Tophill holds her award win within her ‘Best Show Garden’, Frances’ Garden.


Frances Tophill holds her award win within her ‘Best Show Garden’, Frances’ Garden.

 

Back and as big as ever, BBC Gardeners’ World Live kicked off its four-day garden-extravaganza at Birmingham’s NEC with the announcement of the ‘Best in Show’ award winners.

 

The prestigious awards showcase the top gardens, designs and landscaping with winners across a number of categories, including Best Show Garden, Best Beautiful Border and Best Construction Landscaper.

 

Portfolio Director for BBC Gardeners’ World Events, Rachel Poletti-Gadd, said: “We are so thrilled to be back in Birmingham for another huge show!”

 

“Over the last couple of years, we have all come to realise the importance of outdoor space and the show is testament to that. To be able to bring this to life for everyone from gardening enthusiast to budding designers has been a joy and we couldn’t have done it without the support of some of the best garden designers, landscapers, experts and exhibitors in the UK.”

 

The organisers are delighted to announce the 2022 Awards.

 

Show and Feature Gardens

PLATINUM

  • Frances’ Garden – by Frances Tophill
  • Marshalls Garden: Food For Thought
  • Grundy’s Farm (The Archers) designed by Paul Stone
  • The Hideout (Peaky Blinders) designed by Alexandra Froggatt

GOLD

  • Small Space – Big Ideas by Garden Organic, Emma O’Neill and Chris Collins     

SILVER MERIT

  • Old is Gold – by Anna Pawlowska and Gordius Team LTD
  • The Memories of Mountains Garden Retreat - by Jonathan King and JKD Studio
  • Nurture Through Nature – by Landscapes of Distinction and Kim Parish
  • The Living Landscape – A Nostalgic Experience – by Garden Design Co and Michael Wheat Group

SILVER

  • Practically Plastic Free – by Pip Probert

BRONZE

  • Metamorphosis – by Derby College and Rachel Pratt/Mike Baldwin

The accolade of Best Show Garden was awarded to Frances Tophill for Frances’ Garden. In her debut Show Garden, Frances Tophill’s Bauhaus inspired sustainable garden shows how to use locally sourced, reclaimed and recycled materials to demonstrate how gardeners can maximise outdoor space without compromising on design. Frances’ passion for upcycle gardening and sustainability is reflected in her sustainable, post-industrial styled garden which uses her expertise to highlight how effortlessly plants can intertwine with a stylised landscape, helping to increase biodiversity in our built-up spaces.

 

Frances said: “I’m so pleased that my design has been awarded the best show garden – it came as such a surprise. I’m completely overwhelmed by the positive response it’s had so far.”

 

The Best Construction Landscaper was awarded to Living Landscapes - A Nostalgic Experience. The show garden explores the expression of a controlled landscape merging into a natural and rugged environment with a full-sized natural swimming pond. Inspired with the whole family in mind, it showcases ideas to blend a multi-functional space.

 

Beautiful Borders

 

PLATINUM

  • The Crinkle-Crankle, Dead Hedge Border – by Cathy Perry
  • Jungle 365 – by Kate Suttle

GOLD

  • Pretty Wild – by Jordan Weston, The Bearded Botanist
  • Express Yourself – by Carly Tong
  • To Anchor a Wild World: Through the Eyes of a Child with Autism – by Angie Tolley, The Barefoot Gardener UK
  • (We Deserve A) Wildlife – by Kitty Chew
  • Recall, Return, Renew – by Sue Arthur and Ian Potts
  • Where the Wild Things Are – by Zoe Cook and Trellis Design

SILVER MERIT

  • There’s an alternative to the green desert - by Aaron Marubbi and Marubbi Landscapers
  • Equatorial Suburbia – by Rachel Glover
  • Living the Wild Life – by Charlotte Jones, The Northern School of Gardening and Grant Horticulture LTD
  • Overcoming Barriers – by David Magor
  • Poetry Pharmacy Physic Garden – by Esther Cooper-Wood, Laura Clark, Liz Colebrook and Alex Valk
  • Wildlife Oasis – by Louise Carson and Lou Carson Garden Design    

BRONZE

  • Wildlife Habitat – by Lorraine Brodrick and Cotswold Garden Designer 

Special recognition – PCF’s Eco-Friendly Community Garden – by Kathryn Westcott

 

The honour of Best Border was awarded to The Crinkle Crankle, Dead Hedge Border by Cathy Perry. Central to this border is a dead hedge which forms the backdrop to naturalistic planting. Mixing wild and cultivated plants, the design emanates an English summer hedgerow providing for the needs of a range of beneficial creatures.

 

The Best Interpretation of the Border Theme went to (We Deserve A) Wild Life – Kitty Chew. The garden is in celebration of women, both past and present, inspired by several recent tragedies in the news that have affected women. The garden features a colour palette making use of the colours of the Suffragette Movement transitioning into a celebratory riot of pinks and reds.

 

The Best BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Subscriber Border was awarded to Recall, Return, Renew by Sue Arthur and Ian Potts. Returning to the way they experienced nature as children, the designers brought to life how to renew landscapes for a better future.

 

 

Celebrating 100 Years of the BBC

 

In this special centenary year for the BBC, the Show’s Floral Marquee has marked the celebrations with a collection of stunning floral features inspired by popular BBC programmes, including Only Fools and Horses by Jon Wheatley, Antiques Roadshow by Grafton Nurseries, Dr Who by Dibley’s Nursery, The Repair Show by Hardy’s Garden Plants, Gone Fishing by Lincolnshire Pond Plants, and Top of the Pops by Sam Theakstone.

 

Platinum Award winner Alexandra Froggatt said: “I couldn’t resist designing a Peaky Blinders inspired feature because I absolutely love the TV Show.”

 

Alex continued, “For inspiration I visited the Black Country Living Museum, which seemed like a natural step when building the design and an effective way to add authenticity to the design. I introduced the use of whiskey barrels, the industrial landscape, coal and chains to bring to life all of the characters and their lives within the show.”

 

www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com

LifestyleGarden issues rallying call to retailers

LifestyleGarden offers some words of advice to retailers as a growing number of consumers search formore eco-responsible products...


 

Having launched two benchmark setting furniture ranges that go above and beyond in their mission to making sustainable material innovation available to the masses, as well as ensuring that its entire supply chain is focused on delivering environmentally friendly solutions, LifestyleGarden® is a brand that is dedicated to being a responsible manufacturer. But what does it mean to be a responsible retailer and how can retailers maximise their offering to meet the needs of consumers wanting to source more eco-responsible products? Here, LifestyleGarden offer some words of advice.

 

Paul Cohen, Commercial Director at LifestyleGarden explains more: “Forget battling it out to offer the keenest price points; you won’t win fans that way anymore! Consumers have a broader agenda now and expect far more from retailers and brands than flash sales and budget lines.  As we face a climate crisis, people care greatly about sustainability, transparent supply chains, and quality products that last, rather than sending piles of plastic and packaging to landfill. Shoppers are taking greater responsibility for the products they purchase, and they demand their retailers do the same thing. So, keep a narrow focus at your peril because, while you’re busy fighting it out over competitive RRPs, your customers will be going elsewhere.”

 

Cheap isn’t always cheerful

It's true, people are still feeling the pinch and watching their pennies – that probably won’t ever stop – but as the saying goes “buy cheap, buy twice”. Gone are the days when price alone was the be all and end all because people want the money they do spend to go further. In fact, with greater awareness around manufacturing processes, slave labour, and questions around the provenance of products, many now eye items that boast rock-bottom price tags with suspicion. They’ll ask themselves “why is it so cheap – it’s saving me money but at what cost to the planet or the people who made it, and is it actually built to last?”

There is a strong desire to move away from a throwaway society, which means consumers want products that perform, stand the test of time and have a reduced environmental impact. Can retailers always honestly say that the ranges they stock deliver on all those fronts?

In a 2021 survey, conducted by Deloitte, nearly one in the three consumers said they had stopped purchasing certain brands or products because they had ethical or sustainability-related concerns about them. More than a third of UK consumers said they had actively chosen brands that have environmentally sustainable or ethical practices. Of those, 44% viewed waste reduction as important and 43% valued brands producing sustainable packaging and adopting circular practices. Other practices that were valued highly by these consumers included reducing carbon footprints, committing to ethical working practices, and protecting and supporting biodiversity.

 

More to the story

Competition in the marketplace hasn’t disappeared overnight and we know price tags still need to be attractive to shoppers, but retailers are doing their customers a disservice if they think snagging a bargain is all there is to talk about. Manufacturers are making great strides in the use of sustainably sourced and recyclable materials, as well as the recyclability of packaging; all whilst continuing to bring highly-innovative, stylish and creative products to market that enhance the lives of the people that use them.

 

Get customers excited about the stories behind these ranges. The fantastic features and benefits – which help to improve both their lives and the planet we inhabit – will do more to encourage a purchase than just shouting about bargain-basement pricing.

 

LifestyleGarden® is setting the benchmark for sustainability and innovation in the outdoor furniture market with game-changing launches and world firsts, such as DuraOcean®, and the recent addition of Social Plastic to its portfolio. Taking eco-friendly, ethical materials to a whole new level, this unique recycled plastic material helps to clear the world’s waterways of plastic pollution, whilst also supporting local communities who collect the waste for recycling; helping to lift them out of poverty.

 

As many as 2.08billion plastic bottles have been recovered for processing since the inception of Social Plastic by Plastic Bank®. Even more gratifying is that the lives of more than 110,000 people have been improved. as a result of their involvement in the scheme.

 

The use of sustainable materials never compromises the quality or performance of LifestyleGarden®’s ranges and, even better, many of these elegant pieces can be dismantled and recycled at the end of their life. Design-lead and ahead of the curve, these furniture collections provide innovative solutions for customers and offer style, versatility and durability; meaning consumers enjoy them for years to come.

 

Rightly or wrongly, a retailer’s offering strongly reflects the business as a whole, so take a minute to consider how consumers might judge you by what’s on your shelf and shopfloor. It’s not too late to change the narrative and build greater trust with savvy shoppers by shaping your offer to include more responsible products.

 

Find out more

To find out more about LifestyleGarden® and its multi-award-winning ranges please visit www.lifestylegarden.co.uk

 

Petunia grandiflora Bee’s Knees wins FleuroStar Award

The FleuroStar Award 2022-23 has been awarded to Petunia grandiflora Bee’s Knees from Florensis. Hagen Kalläne, Retail and Marketing Manager and Marjolein Kuyucu-Lodder, International Product Marketeer, accepted the prize from Fleuroselect President Karol Pawlak and Secretary General Ann Jennen.


 

The FleuroStar Award 2022-23 has been awarded to Petunia grandiflora Bee’s Knees from Florensis. Hagen Kalläne, Retail and Marketing Manager and Marjolein Kuyucu-Lodder, International Product Marketeer, accepted the prize from Fleuroselect President Karol Pawlak and Secretary General Ann Jennen.

Petunia grandiflora Bee’s Knees from Florensis was competing against Alstroemeria Colorita® Claressa (Royal van Zanten), Begonia rex SpaceStar Maia (Beekenkamp), Calibrachoa x hybrida Fancy Francy (Selecta one), Dahlia hybrida Hypnotica® Rose Swirl (Dümmen Orange), Iberis x hybrida Mermaid Lavender (Syngenta Flowers) and Tropic Lantana Ibis (Brandkamp). 

The jury commented: "A new benchmark for yellow Petunias and an incredible eye-catching yellow! One can't really imagine the intensity of this colour in photos, but when seen in real life the radiance of the flowers is amazing. Its weather tolerance makes this novelty special, and it has a good presentation in small and bigger pots. Petunia grandiflora Bee’s Knees will extend the colour opportunities within the Petunia variety."

 

The picture of perfection

‘Bee’s Knees’, come again?! The name of the latest Petunia of Florensis has been inspired by the similar American expression indicating excellence and high suitability. This newcomer presents an abundance of intensive yellow flowers, offering a high-impact show all season long. Bee’s Knees is heat tolerant, thrives in rainy conditions and maintains its beautiful colour throughout the summer. Growers will appreciate the outstanding branching which ensures nicely filled plants. The masses of intense, yellow flowers are guaranteed to generate impulse sales at point of sale while consumers will appreciate the versatility of Bee’s Knees. Whether planted in containers or in the landscape, the extraordinary garden performance will excite both novice gardeners and expert landscapers. Bee’s Knees, the ideal partner for your outside space!

 

Jury panel representing full spectrum of the industry 

An independent panel of over 30 expert judges from within the industry - breeders, young plant producers, growers, retailers, trade journalists and marketing experts - scored the varieties on visual impact at point of sale and commercial potential. Each jury member has seen the plants in close proximity at one of the eight locations that exhibit FleuroStar entries during FlowerTrials® in The Netherlands and Germany. 

 

Gerard Werink, member of the FleuroStar Jury: "Even though the hybrid judging system of the past two years with local judges seeing the plants in real and the foreign experts taking part in online viewings proved to be remarkably efficient, we are thrilled that this year each member of our international jury could see the physical plants again at one or several contest locations. We are grateful that key players such as B&Q, Obi, Intratuin, Blumen 2000, Jardiland, Waterdrinker, Royal Lemkes and Royal FloraHolland evaluate our candidates. The diversity and expertise of our jury contributes to the continuous success and integrity of the FleuroStar Award."

 

FleuroStar Award Evening hosted by Dümmen Orange

The FleuroStar Award Evening took place on 16 June at Dümmen Orange in De Kwakel (NL). Approximately 100 guests from a cross-section of the international industry enjoyed a networking dinner, learned more about all participating varieties and attended the announcement of the new winner first-hand. 

 

Exclusive marketing support for Petunia grandiflora Bee’s Knees

Petunia grandiflora Bee’s Knees will receive considerable marketing support to turn its go-to-market strategy into a success. In the next year, contest organiser Fleuroselect will conduct a promotion campaign with international trade and social media and promote the new winner at trade fairs and industry events.

 

Other key industry players are also offering support to market the FleuroStar winner. Waterdrinker, major Dutch wholesaler selling to international garden centres and florists, will offer premium product placement for 3-4 weeks at its Green Trade Center next season. Pull Position, a marketing agency specialised in retail promotion, offers a tailor-made marketing project and DeschPlantpak will dedicate a lifestyle photoshoot and matching pot layout made by their design studio to the new winner.

 
Perennial joins with wholesale nurseries to launch new ‘Plant for Perennial’ promotion

Perennial, the charity for people in horticulture, is launching a new promotion called ‘Plants for Perennial’ in collaboration with three major wholesale nurseries – Allensmore Nurseries, The Bransford Webbs Plant Company and Wyevale Nurseries. The scheme will generate funds for the charity through a proportion of plant sales...


 

Perennial, the charity for people in horticulture, is launching a new promotion called ‘Plants for Perennial’ in collaboration with three major wholesale nurseries – Allensmore Nurseries, The Bransford Webbs Plant Company and Wyevale Nurseries. The scheme will generate funds for the charity through a proportion of plant sales.

 

During these unprecedented times, Perennial’s services have never been so important. The rising cost of living is being felt across the industry. To help the charity to respond quickly and flexibly to the challenges that people are facing the whole industry needs to unite in support. This joint promotion is a great example of how businesses can work together to support individuals and their families that are struggling.

 

‘Plant for Perennial’ will be launched this month at the HTA National Plant Show 2022 in Stoneleigh, Coventry. Dianthus ‘Pink Celebration’ from Allensmore, Nemesia ‘Peaches and Cream’ from Bransford Webbs and ‘Salvia Cuello Pink’ and ‘Salvia Cuello White’ from Wyevale will be available to pre-book at the Show on June 21 – 22 for delivery in Spring 2023. An on-pot and on-label charity message will appear on all the plants and a proportion of all sales will be donated to Perennial.

 

The joint promotion was the creation of Mark Taylor, Managing Director at Allensmore, following a conversation with Perennial Trustee Richard Lawton at a Perennial event. Mark invited Adrian Marskell, Managing Director at Bransford Webbs and Andy Johnson, Managing Director at Wyevale to join him in the scheme.

 

Mark Taylor comments: “Perennial is a fantastic charity doing so much to help people in our industry. I’m particularly pleased to be working with Wyevale and Bransford Webbs on a joint venture to help collectively raise funds and promote the efforts Perennial makes to support our trade.”

 

Richard Lawton adds: “Now, more than ever, we need to be aware of the difficulties that people are facing. This collaboration between three fantastic nurseries is a great example of how the industry can support the charity through a cause related marketing and fundraising scheme. On behalf of all at Perennial, I’d like to thank the nurseries for their support. ‘Plant for Perennial’ will be a valued vehicle for spreading the message that Perennial is here for all those working in horticulture who need their help.”

 

In direct response to the challenges brought about by the rising energy costs Perennial is supplying valuable help. Support and information via its helpline on 0800 093 8543 and website at perennial.org.uk/help.

 

To pre-book the ‘Plant for Perennial’ plants at the HTA National Plant Show, visit the nurseries’ stands - Allensmore: 97/104, Bransford Webbs: 49/56, Wyevale: 200/205. Visit Perennial at stand D to find out more about how Perennial can support you and your staff and how you can work with Perennial.

Horticultural professional named Young International Grower of the Year

 

Horticultural professional Pablo Bazzani won the inaugural Young International Grower of the Year Award at a ceremony held on Tuesday 14 June 2022 at GreenTech Amsterdam...


 

Horticultural professional Pablo Bazzani won the inaugural Young International Grower of the Year Award at a ceremony held on Tuesday 14 June 2022 at GreenTech Amsterdam.

 

This award is new to the long-running International Grower of the Year (IGOTY) Awards, hosted by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH). Looking after the future of the ornamental horticulture industry is vital, which is why AIPH partnered with Jungle Talks to introduce the new award category to recognise the ambition of young entrepreneurial professionals.

 

Winner Pablo Bazzani is General Manager of Plazoleta Flowers, Colombia, where he is responsible for leading and supervising financial, production, sales, and logistics procedures and results. Prior to this role, he gained experience as a Marketing Assistant and Marketing Manager for Perfection® Group, Colombia.

 

Alongside the other finalists, Pablo presented his business ideas to the jury of three expert horticultural entrepreneurs. The judges were: Leonardo Capitanio, AIPH Vice-President and CEO of Vivai Capitanio (Italy); Wouter Duijvestejn, Owner of Beyond Chrysant (The Netherlands); and Stephanie Berkhout, Lead Grower at Qualitree (Canada).

 

Jury member Leonardo Capitanio, who presented Pablo with the award, commented: “Pablo is a young leader in our industry who shows focus and vision to achieve great things. He works hard to develop the potential in others in his company and the wider industry. He is exceptionally knowledgeable and an outstanding ambassador for our industry.”

 

The IGOTY 2022 Awards are supported by headline sponsor Royal FloraHolland, founding partner FloraCulture International, sapphire sponsor Expo 2021 Hatay, ruby sponsors GreenTech and GLOBALG.A.P. and GGN Label, pearl sponsor Freddie’s Flowers, flower sponsor Dutch Flower Group, and awards partners CIOPORA and World Horti Center.

 
Award on the cards for Highfield Garden World

Highfield Garden World in Gloucestershire is celebrating being named finalists in this year’s RETAS awards which recognise excellence within greeting card retail...


 

Highfield Garden World in Gloucestershire is celebrating being named finalists in this year’s RETAS awards which recognise excellence within greeting card retail. 

 

The family owned independent has reached the shortlist within the ‘Best Garden Centre Retailer of Greeting Cards – Independent (1-4 centres)’ category. 

 

Highfield has seen its card department flourish to the point where the department takes around £14000 (exc VAT) per month.  Although Highfield has long enjoyed buoyant card sales figures, they have enjoyed a considerable boost since the business outsourced the management of the department to Woodmansterne. 

 

Director Tim Armstrong commented;  “Woodmansterne do a very good job and we work together well.  Every quarter they analyse the sales then use that insight to make decisions around removing any slow selling ranges and replacing them with different designs.  It keeps the display looking fresh and offers something new but expertly tailored to our customers who clearly enjoy spending time browsing the displays to choose their favourites.”

 

The RETAS award winners will be announced at an awards event on Thursday 7 July 2022 at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London.   

 

Finalists 2022 | The Retas Awards

Bents creates new job roles to focus on its people

Bents Garden & Home is refocussing its strategy to its colleagues and introducing a number of new positions within the company, designed to make ‘Bents an Exceptional Place to Work’...


 

After what have been a challenging couple of years for all, Bents Garden & Home is refocussing its strategy to its colleagues and introducing a number of new positions within the company, designed to make ‘Bents an Exceptional Place to Work’.

 

Former HR Manager Kate Ganley, returns to the Centre as Head of People, a new position which will form part of the Senior Team and will help plan talent development and growth for the future.  Kate will work closely with Katherine Bent who takes up the new role, Head of Culture.

 

The family owned and run centre has always recognised the importance of its colleagues and works hard to ensure their team of over 385 are happy, motivated and engaged; wanting to take pride in their work place and deliver exceptional customer service.

 

The pandemic has left an impact on all, with everyone dealing with challenges in their own way, but as a new normal starts to return, Bents wants to further improve colleague engagement and believes the new appointments will prove very beneficial. 

 

Says Matthew Bent, Managing Director of Bents Garden & Home:  “A lot has happened over the past couple of years, with so much out of anyone’s control.  It was inevitable that people were going to be affected, which is why we are prioritising our colleagues and are committed to making Bents an exceptional place for them to work; it’s one of our key objectives for 2022 and across the coming years.  

 

“We are delighted to welcome Kate back to the business.  She was a brilliant HR Manager and has since gained even more experience with new ideas she can bring back to the business. We know she will be a major asset and we can’t wait to welcome her back.”

 

Working alongside Kate and Katherine will be 14 new Culture Champions, colleagues from all areas of the business who will help to develop and promote positivity in the workplace. 

 

Says Matthew:  “We want every colleague to feel motivated and enjoy working with us so we feel it is important to put this investment and energy into our people.  We believe our Culture Champions will be another great addition to help motivate our teams.”

Encouraging customers to make the switch to peat free gardening
GTN's Sustainability Directory 2022 available to read on-line here

GTN’s Guide to Sustainability Innovations for Garden Centre Retailing.

    • Encouraging customers to make the switch to peat free gardening - comment from RHS, Millbrook, Buckingham, The Gardens Group, Hillier, Cherry Lane, Pughs, Alton's, Groves, St Peters, Monkton Elm, Lakeside Plant Centre, Planters, Notcutts, Green Pastures, Summerseat & Bradley Fold Garden Centres.
    • Taking Charge – Garden Centre EV Charging.
    • LOFA members Improving green credentials.
    • Get ready for new EPR regulations.
    • Green commitment at Highfield Garden World.
    • Small steps, big difference at The Gardens Group.
    • Plant Hope at Perrywood.
    • New Sustainable Products.
    • Sustainability Directory 2022.

GTN’s Guide to Sustainability Innovations for Garden Centre Retailing.

 

In this issue:

  • Encouraging customers to make the switch to peat free gardening - comment from RHS, Millbrook, Buckingham, The Gardens Group, Hillier, Cherry Lane, Pughs, Alton's, Groves, St Peters, Monkton Elm, Lakeside Plant Centre, Planters, Notcutts, Green Pastures, Summerseat & Bradley Fold Garden Centres.
  • Taking Charge – Garden Centre EV Charging.
  • LOFA members Improving green credentials.
  • Get ready for new EPR regulations.
  • Green commitment at Highfield Garden World.
  • Small steps, big difference at The Gardens Group.
  • Plant Hope at Perrywood.
  • New Sustainable Products.
  • Sustainability Directory 2022.

 

Read on-line here:

 

 

Read GTN's May 2022 Issue here:

GTN Interviews: Steve Morgan, Zest - Nick Rubins, Cherry Lane Garden Centres
GTN May 2022 Issue available to read on-line here

In the May 2022 issue of GTN magazine:

  • Coming of age for Cherry Lane
  • Garden centre ambulance for Ukraine
  • Make your own vinok - aid ideas from Ukraine
  • Glee Buyers Power List Nomination Form
  • Get ready for a summer of trade shows
  • GTN meets the suppliers – Zest
  • Greenfingers Ty Hafan garden opens
  • LOFA Column – Excited for SOLEX 2022
  • HTA Column – Veg led revolution
  • GIMA Column – The great juggling act of 2022.

In the May 2022 issue of GTN magazine:

  • Coming of age for Cherry Lane
  • Garden centre ambulance for Ukraine
  • Make your own vinok - aid ideas from Ukraine
  • Glee Buyers Power List Nomination Form
  • Get ready for a summer of trade shows
  • GTN meets the suppliers – Zest
  • Greenfingers Ty Hafan garden opens
  • LOFA Column – Excited for SOLEX 2022
  • HTA Column – Veg led revolution
  • GIMA Column – The great juggling act of 2022.

Read on-line here:

 

 

 

Read GTN's Sustainability Directory 2022 here:

 
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Petunias outsell Zonal Geraniums

Yes, that’s correct Petunias have outsold Zonal Geraniums to be the most popular plants purchased in garden centres this summer, for the past three weeks...


Yes, that’s correct Petunias have outsold Zonal Geraniums to be the most popular plants purchased in garden centres this summer, for the past three weeks.

 

In all previous years of GTN Bestsellers publishing a plants chart Zonal Geraniums have reigned supreme for every week of the summer, but this year things are changing.

 

The most popular petunia, according to the GTN Bestsellers Epos data is a Mini Trailing white petunia, with Night Sky coming in at Number 2.

 

  • Elsewhere in the GTN Chart, Argyranthemum were the highest chart mover, up 10 places to No 23.
  • And Orchidaceae were the highest Top 50 re-entry at No 44.

 

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

 
Tomorite dominates

Top 50 garden product sales have suffered during the first two weeks of June. Down 28% compared to 2021 and 14% down on 2019. A lack of sales of decorative items, particularly garden lighting, is one of the main factors...


Top 50 garden product sales have suffered during the first two weeks of June. Down 28% compared to 2021 and 14% down on 2019. A lack of sales of decorative items, particularly garden lighting, is one of the main factors.

 

Is this a sign of people cutting out some spending on their garden? We’ll be interested to know your thoughts when we all meet up at Glee.

  • Tomorite continues to dominate sales with two lines sitting at the top of the GTN chart.
  • Apta Terracotta Pot Feet were the highest chart mover last week, up 29 places to No 9.
  • Creative Products Aquasave is the highest re-entry of the week, back in at No 26.
  • A new range of decorative items that may buck the trend is from J&E Imports.  Their Hedgehog Garden Decoration is a new entry at No 48.

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

 
Record year for Veg-2-Gro

Although Veg-2-Gro sales have slowed in the first two weeks of June, sales year to date still sit up on both 2019 and 2012 levels. This really is a record year for veg being grown at home...


Although Veg-2-Gro sales have slowed in the first two weeks of June, sales year to date still sit up on both 2019 and 2012 levels. This really is a record year for veg being grown at home.

 

As the weather warms up Courgette and Cucumber plants are becoming the most popular purchases. Next it will be peppers and chillis.

  • Cheers Courgette Ambassador 9cm was No1 for the third consecutive week.
  • Quantil Cucumber F1 8cm jumped 21places to No 5.
  • Quantil Tomato Baby Plum Lucinda 8cm was the highest re-entry at No 17.

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

 
Average start to June for growing media sales

Growing media sales really slowed up in the first two weeks of June this year. Top 50 volume sales were down 38% on the same two weeks in 2021...


Growing media sales really slowed up in the first two weeks of June this year. Top 50 volume sales were down 38% on the same two weeks in 2021.

 

However, sales were exactly on a par with the first two weeks of June from 2014 through to 2019.

  • Westland Erin Multipurpose Compost 50L stays at No 1 in the GTN chart.
  • Evergreen Garden Care Levington Multi Purpose Compost 40L moves up one place to No 3.
  • Westland New Horizon All Plant Organic Compost 20L is the highest chart climber, up 22 places to No 26.

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

 
Fat Snax are bestsellers

Out of all the sectors analysed weekly by GTN Bestsellers, Wild Bird Care has fared best compared with 2021 at the start of June. Top 50 sales volumes were only 9% down on last year...


Out of all the sectors analysed weekly by GTN Bestsellers, Wild Bird Care has fared best compared with 2021 at the start of June. Top 50 sales volumes were only 9% down on last year.

 

However, sales were 23% down on the average for the start of June between 2017 and 2019.

  • Gardman Fat Snax, tub of 50, move up 5 places to No 1.
  • Henry Bell Fat Balls, Box of 50 are the highest new entry at No 16.
  • Tom Chambers Insect Suet Logs re-enter at No 21.

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

 

 
Wyevale Nurseries unveils printed promotional catalogue

Wyevale Nurseries will be unveiling its new printed promotional catalogue at the HTA National Plant Show this month after a break of two years due to Covid...


 

Wyevale Nurseries will be unveiling its new printed promotional catalogue at the HTA National Plant Show this month after a break of two years due to Covid.

 

The company’s new 2023 catalogue includes 22 new plant promotions and will be available to collect at the plant show at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire on June 21 and 22. 

 

Andy Johnson, Director at Wyevale Nurseries in Hereford, said: “We’re delighted to be returning this year to the National Plant Show after a two-year absence during the pandemic when, understandably, everything went online. It’s back now and bigger and better than ever. It’s brilliant to have the opportunity once again to meet our retail customers face-to-face. To coincide with the show, we’re launching our full colour, printed edition catalogue, alongside our digital version too.

 

“During the past two years, when we’ve been unable to attend the show due to the pandemic, we’ve not produced a printed catalogue and have done everything online. It may seem retro and old school to many, but we find that our customers prefer to handle our catalogue in the ‘real world’. They keep it for more than a year and we know, from what they have told us, they find it an invaluable reference and resource, and they recycle it when they no longer need it.

 

“Our 2023 catalogue very much reflects the latest trends that garden centre customers are looking for, such as plants that are suitable for urban gardens or can be grown in containers on patios, so we’re providing interest for those who don’t have large gardens with borders to fill. There is also increasing demand for plants that provide food or a haven for wildlife. We’ve included some plants to help inspire the millions of new gardeners who joined our ranks during the past two years too.

 

“With 22 new promotions added to the range for 2023, including seven of our entries for the New Plant Awards at the National Plant Show this month, we continue to develop and enhance our offering. 

 

“Exclusive to us is Echinacea SunSeekers ‘Purple Cabbage’, which has a compact habit with black stems, holding the most intense pink single flowers of giant proportion.

 

“Other highlights include Hydrangea ‘French Bolero Pink’ and Hydrangea ‘French Bolero Blue’, Potentilla fruticosa ‘Mango Tango’, which is perfect for smaller gardens, Cordyline australis ‘Charlie Boy’ – a vibrant statement plant and ideal for container planting. And Senecio ‘Orange Flame’, which has vivid orange pompom flowers on silver-grey, waxy foliage and is a magnet for butterflies.

 

“We’ve also included the 2019 winner of the largest European horticultural show, IPM Essen in Germany, Pyracantha coccinea ‘Red Star’. This new variety has masses of pure red berries from autumn onwards and has 80% fewer thorns compared with other pyracanthas. It’s suitable for containers, hedges or for covering a wall.”

 

The product selection available from Wyevale Nurseries is highly respected across the industry and its experienced team regularly introduces new, award-winning plant varieties.

 

Andy concludes: “Product development is critical to meet future market demands and availability. We’re always looking at emerging trends and seeking alternatives for disease susceptible varieties. We have formed strong relationships with young plant breeders and are now at the forefront of introducing new varieties, which will be sustainable long into the future. Having a dedicated trials area means we’re able to continually assess and develop new varieties before going to market.”

 

For further details about Wyevale Nurseries, which is based in Hereford, please call 01432 845 200 or visit www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk.

 
Shortlist announced for inaugural AIPH World Green City Awards 2022

The International Association of Horticultural Producers, AIPH, has announced a shortlist of eighteen entries from cities around the world for the first edition of the AIPH World Green City Awards...


 

The International Association of Horticultural Producers, AIPH, has announced a shortlist of eighteen entries from cities around the world for the first edition of the AIPH World Green City Awards.

 

In each of the six Awards Categories, the Technical Panel of Judges selected the three top scoring entries for this prestigious list.

 

“We are thrilled to be showcasing excellence in city greening from cities around the world,” said Tim Briercliffe, AIPH Secretary General. “As we reach this very exciting milestone, AIPH is confident that the first ever AIPH World Green City Awards is a resounding success, leaving a legacy that will shine through in future editions. Congratulations to each and every one of the shortlisted cities. We proudly celebrate this amazing achievement with you.”

 

To learn more about the exciting initiatives by the shortlisted cities, click here.

 

The shortlist of entries is presented on behalf of the Technical Panel by the six Category Leads to the 2022 Awards Jury who will identify one winner for each category, as well as the overall AIPH World Green City Awards 2022 winner.

 

“After reviewing the submissions for the AIPH World Green City Awards 2022, I was amazed at not only the commitment to building green cities but the creativity and expression of local culture that was at the core of the submissions.” Grant Pearsall, Urban Ecological Planner, Edmonton, Canada (Technical Panel member).

 

In addition to selecting the shortlist, the Technical Panel has made non-category-specific nominations to be considered by the Jury for Highly Commended Awards. These Highly Commended Awards are given to city entries that did not score highly enough to make the shortlist, but which demonstrate a particularly innovative and inspiring approach.

 

“The spread of very different entries is an indication of the wide range of initiatives, with plants at their heart, that are addressing the multiple challenges cities face due to climate change and the ecological emergency. This initiative by AIPH encourages cities to demonstrate the range of innovative urban nature-based solutions that are possible.” – Marcus Grant, Editor-in-Chief, Cities & Health (Technical Panel Category Lead, Health and Wellbeing)

 

Each eligible entry was assessed and scored by members of the Technical Panel against the following judging criteria:

  • Vision: the initiative should be bold and include a fresh new model for using and/or delivering nature-orientated solution(s).
  • Significance: the initiative should be designed to address a serious local problem or set of problems.
  • Implementation: the initiative should have achieved or be well on its way to achieving its stated objective(s) and/or desirable outcomes.
  • Learning and Transferability: the initiative should have generated some learning content or mechanisms that enable enhanced local practice in the future and/or offer potential for customised replication in other cities.
  • Resilience: The initiative should be mindful of its impact on the planet and of its ability to be sustained over time.

‘To create a healthy and happy urban life we need to include plants and nature in our cities. The 2022 entries for the AIPH World Green City Awards show that cities are taking action to showcase the value of living green. This is truly an inspiration for many other cities.’ Judith van der Poel, Director, Niek Roozen Landscape (Technical Panel member)

 

“The AIPH Awards program is an important initiative to recognize outstanding worldwide contributors and projects that are transforming our world into a greener and healthier place.” Michael von Hausen, President, MVH Urban Planning & Design Inc., Adjunct Prof., Simon Fraser University + University of Vancouver Island (Technical Panel member)

 

Looking ahead, AIPH will profile city entries as case studies to inspire other cities around the world to take action for plants and nature. AIPH celebrates each and every city entry as a leader in urban greening, and a champion of the green city principles.

 

All winners will be announced at a gala event in September/October 2022. The date and venue for this event will be announced soon. AIPH and partners will also launch the 2024 edition of the World Green City Awards at this gala event. To stay in the loop and receive further news about the AIPH World Green City Awards direct to your inbox, subscribe to the AIPH Global Green City Update here.

 

AIPH is grateful to the network of partners for their ongoing support for the AIPH World Green City Awards – Biophilic Cities, Cities & Health, CitiesWithNature, European Federation of Green Roof & Green Wall Associations (EFB), The Global Taskforce of Local and Regional Governments (GTF), Greener Spaces Better Places, #NatureForAll, Salzburg Global Seminar, The Nature of Cities (TNoC), Trees for Cities, United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), Urban Biodiversity Hub (UBHub), Urban Land Institute, World Urban Parks, Youth Climate Leaders, and 8 80 Cities. Thank you also to sponsor Expo 2021 Hatay and media partners Cities Today, FloraCulture International, and Host City.

 
Perennial develops ‘Support for Families’ programme amid rising cost of living

Perennial has developed its ‘Support for Families’ programme with new resources to help families access a wide range of support available to them...


 

Perennial has developed its ‘Support for Families’ programme with new resources to help families access a wide range of support available to them.

 

The programme has been developed in response to the rising cost of living – with price of food, fuel and other essentials surging in recent months, many families across the horticulture industry are struggling to meet everyday living costs.

 

Julia Hayne, Director of Services, says: “One in four people responding to our recent Health and Wellbeing survey said that their income didn’t cover their daily living costs. We understand the impact on families by the rising cost of living and how this is biting into family budgets. Families can miss out on the support that is available to them from free school meals, getting support during school holidays, help with school uniform and benefits.

 

Many working families often don’t know that they are entitled to benefits or support payments which could make a difference of up to £100 a week for some families.”

 

As well as supporting families to access government support and local help, Perennial has a team of specialist advisors who can help families with so much more; from exploring new employment opportunities, developing skills through training or helping take back control of everyday finances. The Perennial Health and Wellbeing app also includes parenting top tips and a no holds barred podcast series about parenting and modern family life. 

 

More information on the support available for families can be found at perennial.org.uk/families or by calling the team for confidential support and advice via the free Perennial helpline on 0800 093 8543.

 
The best of last week's

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


 
Fire at Blue Diamond’s Grosvenor Garden Centre

The warehouse at Grosvenor Garden Centre in Chester, caught fire at around 3.30am on Tuesday (June 14), The garden centre remains closed to the public and is expected to open on Thursday morning...


 

The warehouse at Grosvenor Garden Centre in Chester, caught fire at around 3.30am on Tuesday (June 14)...

 

Three fire engines from Chester, one from Ellesmere Port, one from Malpas, the aerial ladder from Chester, the High Reach Extendable Turret (HRET) and a number of relief crews attended the site to attempt to tackle the blaze.

 

By 9.30am, the roof had collapsed so crews continued to extinguish the fire from outside a safety cordon. Fire crews will remain in attendance at this incident for the rest of the day, extinguishing any pockets of fire that may appear. The main area of the garden centre was not affected by the fire.

 

A fire crew from Audlem are still at this incident, checking for hot spots of fire with a thermal imaging camera.  Any they do find are being extinguished with water from a hose reel. The High Reach Extendable Turret (HRET) is also being used to help extinguish hot spots inside the collapsed building. 

 

A fire investigation to establish the cause is now taking place.

 

The building housed a large amount of stock which has all been damaged by the fire, however, nobody was in the centre at the time, so nobody was harmed.

 

The garden centre remains closed to the public and is expected to open on Thursday morning.

 
Graf UK win at GIMA Golf Day

The Graf UK team of Anthony Bradbeer, Kevin Beckett, Matthew Rolph and Alan McLaughlin won the closely contested GIMA Golf Day Cup last week at Belton Woods Golf Course in Lincolnshire...


The Graf UK team of Anthony Bradbeer, Kevin Beckett, Matthew Rolph and Alan McLaughlin won the closely contested GIMA Golf Day Cup last week at Belton Woods Golf Course in Lincolnshire.

 

The Graf UK Yellow team were level on points, 96, with the Polhill Garden Centre team of Josh Novell, Eamon Loughfrey, Spencer Goodall and Bruno but were awarded the overall win on countback.

 

Leon Boots team of Charlie Burgess, Alan Burdon, Jacob Lewis and Graham Cheeseman finished third with 93 points.

 

88 golfers and their supporters took part in the annual charity fundraising event which concluded with a chilly and windy BBQ and awards presentation.  

 

1st Team – 96 points (winning on countback)

Graf UK

Anthony Bradbeer, Kevin Beckett, Matthew Rolph and Alan McLaughlin

 

2nd Team – 96 Points

Polhill Garden Centre

Josh Novell, Eamon Loughfrey, Spencer Goodall and Bruno

 

3rd Team – 93 points

Leon Boots

Charlie Burgess, Alan Burdon, Jacob Lewis and Graham Cheeseman

 

Nearest the Pin 4th

Rory Park - Imprint

 

Nearest the Pin 8th

Rory Park - Imprint

 

Nearest the Pin 15th

Dean Smith -

 

Nearest the Pin in 2 - 9th

James Coles – Southern Trident

 

Longest Driver 18th

Danny Toone - Westland

 

Beat the Pro

Chris Luther – Hartman

James Coles – Southern Trident

Charles Stubbs – Ames

Danny Toone – Westland Blue

Nic Griffin – Evergreen Garden Care

Neil Blake – Woodlodge

Wayne Willaim – Woodlodge

Jacob Lewis – Leon Boots

 

See the full photo gallery from the day below

 
Dobbies expands compost bag recycling scheme across UK

Dobbies has expanded its compost bag recycling scheme following a successful trial across 10 of its stores...


 

Dobbies has expanded its compost bag recycling scheme following a successful trial across 10 of its stores.

 

Waste-aware gardeners across the country can now recycle compost bags at all mainline Dobbies’ stores. This packaging is typically difficult for people to recycle as very few local authorities collect polythene sacks as part of kerbside collections or at recycling centres.  

 

This expansion follows research from Dobbies earlier this year which revealed that 35% of gardeners want to recycle more of their garden waste products and 39% of people are more likely to shop at a garden centre that is sustainably focused. 

 

Marcus Eyles, Horticultural Director at Dobbies, said: “Anyone can bring in any compost bags, no matter what brand or where it was purchased, and place it in the dedicated recycling bins. 

 

“It has been so positive to see the success of the scheme, and with this expansion we are looking forward to widening access for gardeners across the UK and increasing the positive impact of the project.” 

 

 

In line with the trial scheme, Dobbies will continue to work with partners Evergreen Garden Care, to create garden furniture from the recycled material. This will be donated to Greenfingers, a charity that creates green spaces for terminally ill children.  

 

Jane Hartley, Sustainability Marketing Manager, Evergreen Garden Care, adds: “We are delighted to be working in collaboration with Dobbies and have worked with the 10 stores to develop a collection programme that will work across all stores. The initial findings from the trial has enabled us to identify the best locations of the bins in store and simplify the collection process.” 

 

The expansion of the scheme follows other environmental initiatives, including a partnership with sustainable plant pot designer, elho. This has seen plastic pot recycling bins placed in 69 Dobbies which will help reduce unnecessary plastic waste in the garden and prevent further plastic waste from ending up in landfill. 

 

Dobbies is also the first garden centre group to only sell peat-free compost while its own-brand, John Innes peat-free compost won RHS Chelsea Sustainable Garden Product of the Year. 

 

Follow and support Dobbies sustainability campaign using the hashtag #sustainabledobbies 

 

For Dobbies sustainability policy: https://www.dobbies.com/sustainability-policy  

 

For Dobbies Sustainable podcast: https://www.dobbies.com/podcasts 

 
Experience the Summer of Garden Love at Glee 2022

As Glee gets set to open its doors in late June for the first time ever (28th – 30th June, NEC, Birmingham), the UK’s leading garden centre trade event invites you to a summer of garden loving...


 

As Glee gets set to open its doors in late June for the first time ever (28th – 30th June, NEC, Birmingham), the UK’s leading garden centre trade event invites you to a summer of garden loving!

 

As the most important exhibition in its field, Glee serves as a vibrant networking and face-to-face trading hub, whilst the new June date will greatly strengthen its strategic position in the garden centre buying calendar.

 

With millions of Brits joining the ranks of gardeners over the past two years the industry has been positively booming and Glee, as its most important trade showcase, will reflect this market strength and resilience. The show will offer an unrivalled launch platform to over 400 exhibitors – more than 150 of them new for 2022 - and the biggest contingent of global brands since 2019.

 

The event will have a real summer festival feel thanks to a new outdoor demo area – Fire, Grill & Chill – giving outdoor entertaining companies a chance to show off their skills. Leading brands such as Landmann, Kadamo Joe, Fandango Fire Tools, Cheeky Charlie Oven Company, Northwest Asia and Kadai will all be displaying their latest barbecues, pizza ovens and grills in this area, which will also feature a drinks truck, ice cream, daily live music and will provide the backdrop to this year’s Glee Party on June 28th at 5pm.

 

Shining a spotlight on new product development will be the ground-breaking Glee Innovator Zone, which has helped more than 275 companies penetrate the garden retail market since 2009, bridging the gap between pre-commercial new product ideas and market ready launches from established brands. This is the place to spot the stars of the future!

 

Extending the celebration of all things new will be the GTN-sponsored New Product Showcase, where exceptional new products will compete with firm favourites and proven best-sellers for the New Product Awards. On June 28th and 29th the top three shortlisted entries will make their pitch to a judging panel of industry experts, who will be looking for key factors such as innovation, design, promotion and saleability. The winners of 17 categories will be announced at close of play on June 29th.

 

The spotlight will also shine on exclusively British made products, in recognition of the enormous demand for locally sourced articles. UK garden manufacturers will be easy to locate thanks to the Made in Britain exhibitor filter, which you can access here. Buyers can also filter for sustainable products made of natural, recycled, recyclable or compostable materials, browse specific product categories or find suppliers from other countries.

 

With sustainability and wellbeing of central importance, June 2022 will see the launch of Giving at Glee, a series of initiatives that give back to the community. Visitors and exhibitors alike are invited to dress in their brightest floral attire for Floral Thursdayon 30th June and help raise money for the Greenfingers charity. Show organiser, Hyve, has also partnered with Grow My Tree, which will enable all Glee attendees to participate by planting their own tree.

 

Cross-Sector Sourcing

With eight dedicated product sectors, Glee will offer exceptional crossover buying opportunities, from the very best plants and organic garden care to indoor and outdoor furniture, giftware and apparel.

 

Garden Care is the largest category at Glee, encompassing growing media, compost, fertilisers, grow-your-own equipment, garden machinery, tools and accessories. Exhibitors include: Mr Fothergills Seeds, Burgon & Ball, Carbon Gold, CJ Wildlife, Dalefoot Composts, DJ Turfcare, Johnsons Lawn Seed, Durston Garden Products, Eden Horticulture, Elho, Fallen Fruits, Gardening Naturally, Hozelock, Gardena, Hygeia, Jardinopia, King's Seeds, Oregon Tool UK, Plantsmith, PTMD Collection, Sipcam, Smart Garden Products, Spear & Jackson, The Real Soil Company, Thorndown, Treadstone, Vegepod, Vitax, Wildlife World, Yorkshire Flowerpots and Zest.

 

Glee’s Landscaping and Garden Decoration zone will have some show-stopping stands from some of the most influential brands in this sector. Hard landscaping and aggregates, fencing solutions, garden buildings, pots and planters, decorative and functional garden structures, soft landscaping, statues, water features and timber supplies can all be found in this part of the show, with exhibitors that include: Woodlodge, AMES UK, Azpects, Deco-Pak, Edelman, Enigma Home & Garden, Fence Buddy, Fountasia, Gardenstone, Ivyline, Kelkay Ltd., Kiln Fired Pottery, Meadow View Stone Ltd., Primeur, Rubi UK, Smartedge, The Garden Village, UK Bamboo Supplies, and Willowstone Garden Products.

 

Outdoor Entertaining will come into its own with not just a dedicated show sector but a fabulous new outside demo area, Fire, Grill & Chill. Al fresco dining, entertaining, working and living have all contributed to a meteoric rise for this sector and buyers can look forward to a wealth of inspiration in the realms of garden furniture, barbeques, parasols, chimeneas, conservatory furniture, outdoor play and camping essentials. Exhibitors will include: Cadac, Campingaz, Homefire, Cheeky Charlie Oven Company, Igloo, Fandango Fire Tools, Hex Living, Shatchi, Mookie Toys, Napoleon Grills, Norfolk Leisure Lifestyle, Ltd., Pit Boss, Premier Decorations, Primus, Riverco Trading, Sun Time and Z Grills Inc.

 

Glee Plants – the Green Heart of the show - is where you can source the best in nursery stock, bedding plants, trees and shrubs, as well as those all-important houseplants, sales of which have boomed to more than £4billion as Brits go wild for all things green. Brands you can look forward to seeing here are: Craigmarloch Nurseries, Golden Grove Nursery, Green Inspiration Plants, Happy Plants, Henry Bell & Co, Javado, Key Essentials, Laurica Plants, MNP Flowers, The Bransford Webbs Plant Company and The Christmas Cabin.

 

It isn’t just garden centres or outdoor living specialists who’ll find a lot to love at Glee, with the Home, Gift & Clothing sector offering inspirational sourcing to retailers in this market from seasonal decorations, greetings cards and stationery, outdoor clothing and accessories, picnicware, games, toys, books, home fragrance, home décor and more, serving both this Christmas season and beyond to spring/summer 2023. Brands exhibiting in this sector include: Woodmansterne, UK Greetings, Noel Tatt, Museums & Galleries, Vent for Change, Stubbs Mugs, Creative Products, Deluxe Homeart, Emily Victoria Candles, Bolsius Candles, HJ Hall, Tilnar Art, Willsow; English Tea Shop, M&Co, Kidzplay, Summit/PMS International, Giftware Trading, JT England, Mood Bears, Leon Boots Co. and the Lake District Umbrella Company.

 

With pet products estimated to be worth over £6bn in the UK (Statista report June 2021), it isn’t all about home and giftware for humans! Glee’s dedicated PAW (Pet & Animal Wellbeing) sector will offer the goods you need to attract high-spending pet parents to your store, with a broad cross-section of grooming, pet food, pet accessories, wild animal wellbeing, bird feeders, pet toys and wildlife gardening products. Brands will include: Barking Bags, Benchmark Kennels Ltd, Christies Direct, Ditsy Pet Ltd., Goodchaps, Green Feathers, Jacobi Jayne & Company, Little Hay Company, Park Life Pet Ltd., Scruffs, and WHM Pet Group Ltd.

 

For many garden centres and other destination retail outlets, Food & Catering is one of the most vital aspects of their customer offering, with cafes and restaurants bringing in great profits throughout the year. This also constitutes an important sector of Glee, with companies such as The Secret Garden Distillery keen to present their product range to the trade at Glee.

 

Food & Catering will sit alongside the complementary Retail Experiences & Services, where you can meet the experts at: CSY Retail Systems, Dascher, Fordingbridge, Garden Connect, Gralyn Joinery, Melitta Professional Coffee Solutions, Retail Vista, Nuepos, Open Retail Solutions, Paysagea, QCR Recycling Equipment Ltd., Smiemans Projecten B.V., Stagecraft, Timber Displays Ltd., Tudor Tea & Coffee, and UCC Coffee UK Ltd.

 

Global Industry Showcase

Amongst the 70+ international brands due to exhibit at Glee 2022, 13 have already confirmed their place within the Indian Pavilion and the show is also looking forward to welcoming its first ever exhibitor from Uzbekistan, alongside companies fromCanada, Korea and China.

 

The European contingent will feature strong representation from that other famous gardening nation, The Netherlands, to include Elho, Kaemingk, Capi Europe, Kapiteyn B.V., Edelman, Madison B.V., Impulse Plants B.V., Bonfeu, JAVADO, 200 Fahrenheit, Plenty Gifts, Green Inspiration Plants, and Smiemans Projecten B.V. Glee’s new partnership with Team France Export, Business France and the Choose France™ initiative will bring Forest Style SAS (Soulet / Cerland), Vertiable SAS, Paysagea SAS and Hareau (Weenect) to the NEC, whilst key German brands, Scheurich and Burstenhaus Redecker Gmbh will also be present, alongside suppliers from Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Moldova, Norway and Poland.

 

Taking Centre Stage

The best of garden retailing will once again be celebrated at Glee with the Buyers Power List awards, to be held on Tuesday 28th June at 5:00pm.  The prestigious awards will recognise the individual buyers and buying teams who have gone above and beyond to make a difference within the garden retail industry in the past year.

 

As always, Glee will offer visitors valuable content free of charge via The Stage seminar programme; a programme that has been expertly curated to tackle key themes and trends that are currently shaping consumer demand and the future of garden retail. This year’s schedule will include topics such as ‘The opportunity for growth in the current environment’ (Tuesday 28th, 11:00 – 12:00), ‘Sustaining and managing growth’ (Tuesday 28th, 13:30 – 14:15), ‘2023 Home and Outdoor living trends’ (Wednesday 29th, 13:30 – 14:15), and ‘How garden centres can adapt to a sustainable and successful long-term online strategy’ (Thursday 30th, 11:00 – 11:30).

 

Sealing Glee’s position as the industry’s most important networking hub, the show will again play host to our vital trade associations: Gardenex, GIMA (Garden Industry Manufacturers Association) and HTA, all of which are looking forward to seeing their existing members on the show floor, meeting with potential new members and offering their invaluable advice and expertise to those who need it.

 

GIMA will run its popular speed-networking event, Buyers Connect*, for the duration of the event, whilst Gardenex will also be hosting 30 international Buyer Connect events**. These short but sweet business meetings offer a golden opportunity to make personal contacts with the most sought-after buyers and suppliers, without wasting any precious show time.

 

Matthew Mein, Glee’s Event Director, said: “We are incredibly excited about the first-ever summer edition of Glee and proud to invite garden centres and other retailers to this year’s sell-out show.

 

“Our industry still faces significant challenges – mostly due to macro-economic factors and supply chain logistics – but it never ceases to inspire with constant innovation, drive and positivity. The millions of new gardeners who joined our ranks during lockdown are here to stay and will be rolling up their sleeves in the great outdoors for years to come. Glee is THE place where retailers can fulfill the requirements of all their customers – be they grow-your-own newbies and houseplant enthusiasts, veteran allotment holders, al fresco entertainers or house and garden proud Brits. With over 400 exhibitors raring to go, the sourcing opportunities at Glee this year are tremendous. We can’t wait to see you all at the show!”

 

Entry is free of charge to all pre-registered visitors. Register here: https://www.gleebirmingham.com/visitor-registration

 

*The GIMA Buyers Connect service is open to all exhibitors, but demand is high and spaces are limited. To register your interest contact GIMA directly on: info@gima.org.uk

 

** To find out more about the Gardenex Buyer Connect events please contact Gardenex’s Charlie Parker by emailing charlie@gardenex.com

 

Fast Facts

What: Glee 2022

Where: NEC, Birmingham

When: Tuesday June 28th – Thursday June 30th 2022; opening hours 9.00am - 6:00pm (Tuesday & Wednesday) and 9.00 - 4:00pm (Thursday). 

Who: Glee is a trade-only event

Website: www.gleebirmingham.com

 

 
NEC + Heaven Sends Showroom = The Perfect Trip
GTN Xtra Promotion

Are you going to the NEC Birmingham between 28th and 30th June? Then we’ve got another stop to add to your buying trip!


 

Are you going to the NEC Birmingham between 28th and 30th June? Then we’ve got another stop to add to your buying trip!

 

As we reported earlier in the year, Heaven Sends are not attending any Trade Shows this year, but have instead, invested in updating their amazing 2 storey showroom which is just 20 minutes away from the NEC. So, why not take a break, as many do, just make an appointment to pop over to see the Heaven Sends Angels at their showroom and this is why…

 

You can discover EXCLUSIVE SHOWROOM OFFERS on their collections, that are only available during show week. You can also browse their extensive range of Christmas, Halloween and Everyday products in a huge variety of styles and price points – we know that there’s something for everyone on offer. 

 

You can leisurely browse all the different collections in the peace & comfort of their showrooms, with expert advice on hand and with delicious refreshments provided.

 

PLUS, they’re also holding an amazing SHOWROOM CHARITY EVENT where they are auctioning off their much-loved, show-stopping display pieces, to raise money for the DEC’s Ukraine Appeal.

 

Showroom appointments are limited & filling up quickly, you can book your visit either online here: https://www.heavensends.com/showroom-tour, via the lovely office Angels on 0121 351 7457, or get in touch directly with your ‘on the road’ Heaven Sends Angel. 

 

Can’t make time to visit the showroom? You can still bid on the display pieces for the Showroom Charity event in aid of the DEC’s Ukraine Appeal, by getting in touch with your Angel to hear which fabulous display pieces are on offer + to place your bid. Visit www.heavensends.com and click on ‘Say Hello to an Angel’ at the top, or follow the link here: https://www.heavensends.com/about-us/meet-our-angels for your Angel’s contact info.

 
Treadstone to follow 2021 new product award with further innovations
GTN Xtra Promotion

Garden products supplier, Treadstone, is set to unveil further innovation for its product portfolio at the Glee Birmingham show this month. This includes brand new ranges and impactful merchandising to support sales in store...


 

Garden products supplier, Treadstone, is set to unveil further innovation for its product portfolio at the Glee Birmingham show this month. This includes brand new ranges and impactful merchandising to support sales in store.

 

Treadstone Products have built a reputation in recent years of thinking outside-of-the-box with several innovative ideas that make gardening easier and more sustainable. With the core gardening offering within The Good Life range and the popular garden glove with that clever clip, ClipGlove, there are products that offer a point of difference for UK gardeners to take advantage of. As well as these two brands, Peter Rabbit Clothing & Accessories make gardening fun for kids, giving a springboard into the adventurous world of gardening. Treadstone supply hundreds of garden centres throughout the UK, and can

supply their products as part of a same-week-delivery system that they have operated for several years.

 

Champions of Innovation

 

At the Glee 2021 show Treadstone stole the show with the problem-solving curved Pot Trellis winning best overall new product. This was followed by huge interest and promising sales results this year.

 

Pot Trellis & Trough Trellis is a range of durable steel trellis that can be adapted to a planter or even a bedding area. By pushing the clever stability plate into compost, this design enables users to install a solid plant support within a matter of minutes. The most unique product in the range is the Pot Trellis that is designed for round pots. Unlike the straight Trough Trellis, the Pot Trellis is curved to follow the shape of pots, a feature unseen in the market, until now.

 

 

Champions of creativity

 

It may only be nine months since Glee 2021, but Treadstone are looking to repeat the accolade of ‘Best New Product’ with further innovations to make their brands stronger than ever. This year Treadstone will be launching four brand new ranges, creating over 30 new products.

 

The Treadstone team not only get recognised for their product ideas, but they also have won awards for their in-store merchandising. Merchandising support is key to their success with merchandisers for many ranges and a team of agents that service Treadstone displays in garden centres. This focus ensures stands are looking tidy and are fully stocked, giving the best chance for sales to occur.

 

The new additions also have this same approach with brand new merchandisers for each of the four new ranges. Additionally, one of the existing ranges has a brand-new merchandising concept to help increase sell-through rates even more than before.

  

And there’s one more thing…

 

Always looking for the next way to be kinder to the environment, Treadstone will be embarking on their next phase of sustainability taking recycling into their own hands. This will see a strong eco development in one of their key ranges, which will make a significant difference to reducing waste in 2023. 

All the latest innovations from Treadstone will be unveiled on their Glee stand in Hall 8-20 (20J52) at the upcoming Glee Birmingham exhibition at the NEC 28th – 30th June. You are guaranteed to see uniqueness with 36 new products, so DARE TO SELL DIFFERENT and pay Treadstone a visit. If you wish to book in an appointment at the show, please contact sales@treadstoneproducts.com.

 
GROW YOUR sales...with the new Global Journey Seed Ball Dispenser
GTN Xtra Promotion

Seed balls contain around 30 seeds, sprouting in 4-6 weeks. The balls are a mini ecosystem, protecting from birds, ants and slugs and providing  nutrition as the seeds germinate and grow...


Seed balls contain around 30 seeds, sprouting in 4-6 weeks. The balls are a mini ecosystem, protecting from birds, ants and slugs and providing  nutrition as the seeds germinate and grow.

 

Once in flower they provide an important habitat and food for wildlife. You can safely plant seed balls at any time of year!

 

Our special mix is extra bee friendly, specifically chosen to attract solitary bees, honey bees and bumblebees. Each seed ball contains around 30 seeds from a mix of Birdsfoot Trefoil, Foxglove, Red Clover, Viper’s Bugloss and Wild Marjoram – recommended by the Bumblebee Conservation Trust.

 

We’ve also added a sprinkling of pollinator-friendly annuals Chamomile, Cornflower, Corn marigold, and Night-flowering catchfly.

 

Available in our attractive dispensers for the ideal impulse purchase.

 

Dispensers are your silent salesperson, generating cash sales even while your cash registers are busy.

 

To order simply call 0161 8720333 or email Ian at isamuels@global-journey.com

 
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week

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


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

 

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Highlights of the GTN Wild Bird Care 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.