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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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