In This Issue
Tong gets go-ahead to build £14m garden centre
Work on new centre set to start in mid-July
Has Summer come at last?
Shed prices set to soar
Private equity group acquires leading garden product firm
Lockdown Startup BOOTPAC celebrates first sales
HTA Virtual New Plant Awards – back for its second year
Bumper first half in sight for plants
Garden centre team's cycle challenge raises over £6,500
Sunflowers bring cheer and cash to local charities
Dobbies announces second Northern Ireland store
Introducing Pelargonium for Europe – helping to increase sales and educate consumers
Unprecedented Demand - Record Easter garden centre sales lead to stock shortages - Read GTN's April issue on-line now
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra
Man arrested after burglary at garden centre
Core gardening feeds sales increases
Dramatic increases in gardening activity
Will Springwatch boost sales?
New chairman of Nursery Trade Fair Foundation
How cities benefit from taking an extra-dimensional approach to city greening
Award-winning designer seeks gold medal hat-trick
The best of last week's
BGC's Harrogate centre opens - Exclusive photo tour
Plantable children’s book wins Dragons’ Den offer
Something exciting is on its way...
Klass opens in Bourne Valley Garden Centre
Barton Grange Christmas 2020 - Exclusive GTN Xtra Photo Tour
Squires Badshot Lea - Christmas 2020
Perrywood at Christmas 2020 - with correct photo gallery now...
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week
Buy your subscription to the GTN Bestsellers printed weekly newsletter
All the latest news from the world of pet products
Major companies exhibiting at AQUA 2021 in October
New dog hydration product launches
PetQuip supports and promotes the British exhibitor group at ‘in person’ Zoomark International show
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Tong gets go-ahead to build £14m garden centre

Tong’s new £14m garden centre on the edge of Wakefield was given the green light today (Thursday), as council planning chiefs approved plans for the site of a former golf course. The company now has permission to build the new garden centre and soft play area at the former Acanthus Golf Club off Thorpe Lane in Tingley, which is expected to provide up to 250 jobs.


 

Tong’s new £14m garden centre on the edge of Wakefield was given the green light today (Thursday), as council planning chiefs approved plans for the site of a former golf course.

 

The company now has permission to build the new garden centre and soft play area at the former Acanthus Golf Club off Thorpe Lane in Tingley, which is expected to provide up to 250 jobs.

 

A meeting of Leeds City Council’s South and West Plans Panel approved the scheme after a document, written by council licensing chiefs, had recommended the site be approved in principle.

 

The document stated: “A Travel Plan has been prepared by the applicant and the findings have been influenced by surveys that have been carried out at Tong Garden Centre.

 

“Tong Garden Centre is run by the applicant of this proposal and is located within a rural setting that is comparable to the subject site. The bus services and frequencies are similar with Tong Garden centre being approximately 700 metres from the nearest bus stop and this proposal being 850 metres from the bus stop to the front entrance.

 

“The applicant has confirmed willingness to enter into a Section 106 Agreement, which will relate to the financial contribution of £150,000 towards the provision of six biodiversity units (this provides a scheme that is policy compliant and that achieves a net gain in biodiversity), together with clauses seeking local employment initiatives and the implementation of the proposed travel plan.”

 

It added that, of the 150 members of staff employed at Tong Garden Centre, more than two thirds of staff travel less than five miles to get to work.

 

The report concluded: “The applicant has provided various supporting information to ensure that the concerns raised by panel members have been addressed.

 

“The supporting information further supports the original recommendation that the proposal does represent a sustainable form of development through the provision of a range of social, economic and environmental improvements to the site and wider area.”

 

Plans submitted to the council last year included a garden centre with a restaurant, landscaping and car parking spaces for 612 vehicles. Outdoor adventure play areas are also included, which the applicant claims can help “tackle childhood obesity”.

 

Work on new centre set to start in mid-July

Building work on Tingley Garden Centre is set to start in mid-July with the owners hoping to open the store to the public next Summer...

 

Pictured: Members of the team viewing the plans for Tingley – from left to right, Jo Dales, Katie Young, Leigh Quinn, Mark Farnsworth, Sarah Dwyer.


 

Building work on Tong’s new garden centre is set to start in mid-July with the owners hoping to open the store to the public next Summer.

 

Tong Garden Centre MD Mark Farnsworth said: “We were delighted to have the plans approved after three years working on this project.  It’s been a big team effort and we’d like to thank all involved. All being well, we intend to start on the site in mid-July with the doors open to the public next July.

 

“We have learnt a lot over the last six years at Tong and we intend to apply that knowledge to help create a top class garden centre with something for all the family.  We hope it can be a great addition to the South Leeds area.  

 

“We are very excited about the addition of the adventure play area which, in addition to our Grasshoppers play area at Tingley, will offer children right up to the age of 14 an exciting space to enjoy themselves.

 

“Finally, our business is all about our people and we are so pleased that this will create career opportunities for our existing team as well as creating up to 250 jobs for local people.”

 

Pictured: Members of the team viewing the plans for Tingley – from left to right, Jo Dales, Katie Young, Leigh Quinn, Mark Farnsworth, Sarah Dwyer.

Has Summer come at last?
GTN Bestsellers - week 21

In what we hope was the last week of not very good spring/summer weather, garden centre sales dipped again and were, as expected, considerably lower than the same week last year when there was massive demand in the first full week after Lockdown #1...


 

In what we hope was the last week of not very good spring/summer weather, garden centre sales dipped again and were, as expected, considerably lower than the same week last year when there was massive demand in the first full week after Lockdown #1.

 

Overall sales were 29% down on last year, held up by plants which were 24% down, whereas garden product and growing media sales were down by 56% and 54% respectively.

 

The arrival, at last, of warmer weather will encourage people back out into their gardens so we should see an uplift of sales over the coming weeks. After this late start to summer proper, how long will the season go on for? Answers on a postcard please to: trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week in 2020: week 21.

  • Garden Products Top 50 – down 56%
  • Growing Media Top 50 – down 54%
  • Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – down 54%
  • Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – down 50%

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week in 2020: week 21.

  • All Plants with Barcode index – down 24%
  • All Items with Barcode index – down 29%

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

Shed prices set to soar

Britons could soon be paying up to fifty per cent more for their garden sheds due to a global shortage of timber...


 

Britons could soon be paying up to fifty per cent more for their garden sheds due to a global shortage of timber.

 

Warm winters, an increase in home renovations and the impact of COVID19 have seen prices soar in recent months.

 

Now experts at leading shed manufacturer Kybotech are warning prices will rocket as summer approaches and customers could be left waiting months for their outdoor building.

 

They’ve vowed to lock prices on their sheds and garden buildings for now but warn an industry wide hike will eventually have an impact.

 

They say a combination of warmer winters, increased demand from China, inflation rates, a rise in home renovations and the impact of the COVID19 pandemic across the world have all played a part in the price hike.

 

And they believe smaller suppliers will be unfairly hit as they do not have the buying power of the bigger garden building manufacturers.

 

Warm winters in Scandinavian countries, like Sweden, have led to less trees being felled with muddy terrain being impossible for heavy vehicles to navigate.

 

Home renovations and DIY projects have gone up over the last year with locked down Britons stuck at home and there has been a huge increase in demand from China.

 

Kybotech, owner of BillyOh.com, has seen sales of Log Cabins increase by 142% over the last 12 months with an increased demand for outdoor living, working and storage space.

 

Kybotech founder, Charles Walton said: “We’re now in the second year of timber shortages and the impact is beginning to be felt. We’ve had two consecutive warm winters which has meant considerably less timber being felled and resulting in a massive global shortage. Other factors have come into play too which have compounded the problem.

 

“Combined they have the potential to push up timber prices by as much as 50% and at some point a proportion of that cost will be passed on to the consumer.

 

“It won’t just be businesses like ours which will feel the impact of the shortage. Construction companies and small builders will struggle to get the softwood they need to peg out buildings. It will be felt across many sectors.”

 

Walton continued: “We are committed to keeping our prices low for our customers, but the industry-wide price rise will directly impact our garden buildings. At some point and as the shortage worsens, we will be left with little choice but to increase our prices.

 

“It’s impossible to put a date on when customers should expect that, but our advice is to buy while prices are still low. Everything from our playhouses to our log cabins will inevitably be hit with a new price tag over the next few months.

 

“For now, we have the capability and resources to keep our prices as they are and we’re committed to doing that for as long as we can.”

 
Private equity group acquires leading garden product firm

Private equity group Duke Street has acquired Germany-based COMPO, a leading producer and distributor of gardening soil, fertiliser, plant protection and lawn seeds...


Private equity group Duke Street has acquired COMPO, a leading producer and distributor of gardening soil, fertiliser, plant protection and lawn seeds. 

 

Headquartered in Münster, Germany, COMPO is currently owned by Kingenta Ecological Engineering Group Co Ltd, a publicly listed company and one of the leading fertiliser producers in China. Kingenta has owned COMPO since 2016. 

 

COMPO is the market leader across continental Europe, having established a wide range of technically superior products under the most respected and well-known brands in the industry. Its diverse product portfolio offers retailers and consumers ‘bio’ alternatives to traditional gardening product solutions, positioning COMPO ahead of its competitors in terms of sustainability. The organisation owns unrivalled production and distribution infrastructure, and has established brands that are widely familiar to distribution customers and consumers alike.

 

COMPO can trace its roots to the 1950s, and it has been supporting gardeners across Germany and Europe ever since. In February this year, COMPO was recognised as one of the ten strongest product brands in Germany, securing 6th place in the ‘Best Overall Brand’ category at the prestigious Best Brands Marketing Awards.

 

Duke Street is backing a very strong management team as it seeks to build and consolidate COMPO’s position in the industry across Europe. The team is led by Stephan Engster as CEO of COMPO, who joined the business in 2016 and has developed an exciting growth strategy for the company, which is underpinned by continuous innovation and aligns with Duke Street’s vision for the opportunities presented in the sector.  

 

The horticulture market has shown strong signs of growth as gardening boomed throughout lockdowns and has accelerated the trend of sustainable-conscious consumers seeking eco-friendly products to tend to their gardens. 

 

Paul Adams, Partner, Duke Street, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with management to acquire COMPO, the market leader in traditional and sustainable gardening products in continental Europe and a brand that has a clear ESG leadership position. We have seen a material increase in gardening and gardeners in recent years, with consumers embracing the broad benefits that the activity brings to their lives. We look forward to working with COMPO’s excellent management team as we implement its strategy, supported by significant investment and follow-on capital from us and our investors, that will enable the organisation to grow both organically and by acquisition across Europe.”

 

Stephan Engster, CEO, COMPO, said: “We at COMPO are thrilled to be partnering with Duke Street, who recognised and shared our ambition for this business. Together we are ideally positioned to build a diversified European business to better serve our customers and end-consumers. In particular, we have the right blend of experience, ability and vision to accelerate our growth by expanding our reach and providing consumers across Europe with the most extensive range of organic, sustainable and traditional products. After enjoying the support of Kingenta for a number of years, the business is poised for this exciting next stage of its evolution. Sustainability is of particular importance for Duke Street and that aligns perfectly with our careful stewardship of this business and with the growing priorities of our customers and end-consumers.”

 

The acquisition of COMPO follows Duke Street’s investment in Kent Pharmaceuticals and Athlone Laboratories, manufacturers and distributors of specialist generic pharmaceuticals, in 2019 and Great Rail Journeys, the world’s leading provider of escorted rail holidays, in July 2018. 

 

The transaction builds on Duke Street’s strong record of investment in Germany, having previously acquired A-Rosa, the German premium river cruise operator, in February 2018, and Medi-Globe, the medical diagnostics and treatment manufacturer, in 2016.

 

Duke Street sold Wagamama in October 2018 to The Restaurant Group plc, for an enterprise value in excess of £550 million, generating a 3.4x money multiple for the firm. 

 

Other successful exits by Duke Street include its investments in Baywater Healthcare (sold in 2017) and LM Funerals (sold in 2015), generating a total cash return of more than 5x and 2.6x respectively, for Duke Street and its investors.

Lockdown Startup BOOTPAC celebrates first sales

Seeing their existing businesses drying up due to the pandemic North Wales entrepreneurs Mike Wilson and Robert Bruce decided to press forward with Mike’s idea of a versatile car boot protector aimed at the garden and leisure market...


 

Seeing their existing businesses drying up due to the pandemic North Wales entrepreneurs Mike Wilson and Robert Bruce decided to press forward with Mike’s idea of a versatile car boot protector aimed at the garden and leisure market.

The BOOTPAC is unique because it can seal in wet and dirty items and fully protect the car on trips to the recycling centre or days out.

“We designed and sourced the Bootpac during the first lockdown,” said Robert. “We didn’t think we would still be locked down now the first stock has arrivedm”

Bellis Brothers Farm Shop and Garden Centre near Wrexham was one of the first trade customers so Mike and Robert were delighted to showcase the product to consumers over the Bank Holiday weekend.

“It’s an innovative and practical product that’s perfect for our customers,” said Bellis Brothers buyer Beverley Bostok. “I was impressed by the quality and attention to detail that Robert and Mike have put into the product. Rather than be put off by the problems of the last 18 months they have come up with something completely different and we are happy to help them bring it to market.”


Mike and Robert will be taking the range to to Glee in September but in the meantime have a limited amount of stock available on a first come first served basis.

Any buyers should contact the company via www.bootpac.biz or by email at sales@bootpac.biz.

 
HTA Virtual New Plant Awards – back for its second year

The HTA is holding a special Zoom Webinar at 11am on Tuesday June 22 when the judges of the New Plant Awards will announce the Best in Category and Best in Show. Floramedia will also announce the winner of the Visitor Vote...


The HTA is holding a special Zoom Webinar at 11am on Tuesday June 22 when the judges of the New Plant Awards will announce the Best in Category and Best in Show. Floramedia will also announce the winner of the Visitor Vote. 

 

Click on the link to register for the webinar - https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_iKoBxUnORzS5xaBEcNXBnQ

 

The 2021 judging panel, co-Chaired by HTA Director of Membership Martin Simmons and HTA Horticulture Manager Pippa Greenwood,  includes Laura Jackson (Swarkestone Nursery), Andy Smith (The Klondyke Group), Chris Young (RHS Editor at Large) and Jane Moore (Garden Media Guild).

 

With growers having entered more than 80 new plants, it is now the judges turn to deliberate over which plant will be awarded Best in Show and Best in Category across five categories – Herbaceous Perennials; Annuals; Houseplants; Shrubs & Climbers and Trees & Conifers. All entries have been verified by Joy of Plants.

 

Ahead of the announcement of the winners, following the judge’s discussions a Top 10 will be released for you to vote for your favourite (Visitor Vote) and all entries will be listed including image and relevant information.

Bumper first half in sight for plants
GTN Bestsellers Plants - week 21

In 2018 summer was late arriving and if that year is anything to go by we could be in for a bumper end to the first half of the year for plant sales. Matching 2018 sales, between now and the end of June, would see the GTN Bestellers All Plants sales index sit at almost 14% up on 2019 volumes...


In 2018 summer was late arriving and if that year is anything to go by we could be in for a bumper end to the first half of the year for plant sales. Matching 2018 sales, between now and the end of June, would see the GTN Bestellers All Plants sales index sit at almost 14% up on 2019 volumes.

  • The only change in the Top 10 most popular plants last week were Fuchsia’s outselling Osteospermum’s to move up to No 5.
  • Coleus were the biggest mover up the chart climbing 16 places to No 29.

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

Garden centre team's cycle challenge raises over £6,500

A team of cyclists from Tong Garden Centre raised over £6,500 for West Yorkshire mental health charities, ‘Luke's Lads' and ‘Butterflies Mental Health' when they tackled a challenging 80k ride recently...


 

A team of cyclists from Tong Garden Centre raised over £6,500 for West Yorkshire mental health charities, ‘Luke's Lads' and ‘Butterflies Mental Health' when they tackled a challenging 80k ride recently.

 

The team of 15, including directors, staff, suppliers and friends, set off from Slingsby near Malton in North Yorkshire.  The hilly route took them over the North York Moors and included the highs of Blakey Ridge and the lows of Rosedale valley. 

 

Tong Garden Centre's Managing Director, Mark Farnsworth explained the rationale for the ride: "For the last few years we have put a team together to tackle the Tour de Yorkshire sportive which has sadly been cancelled again due to the pandemic.  Having missed one year, we didn't want to miss another, particularly as our charity this year is Luke's Lads and sister group, Butterflies who support young men and women in the local area with mental health issues. 

 

"Awareness of mental health has risen significantly over the last year and we were overwhelmed by the generosity of our supporters, both financially and in their feedback about the choice of charity."

 

Luke's Lads was set up in memory of Luke Naylor who took his own life after finding it difficult to reach out and talk about his mental health.  The charity encourages and supports men to talk about their mental health, and they also use exercise as a way to help deal with challenges. The success of Luke's Lads prompted the creation of sister charity, Butterflies Mental Health to help young women in a similar way.

 

To support the fundraising effort, please donate here https://bit.ly/TGCJustGiving

 

Luke's Lads and Butterflies are based in the same Batley venue in Jo Cox House. Both groups are supported by the charity TCD - Tackling social isolation in the Community through Diverse activities.

 
Sunflowers bring cheer and cash to local charities

Squire’s Garden Centres has raised £2,562.21 for numerous local charities thanks to their recent sunflower seed campaign...


 

Squire’s Garden Centres has raised £2,562.21 for numerous local charities thanks to their recent sunflower seed campaign.

 

In April Squire’s gave away free packs of sunflower seeds to children to help brighten up their Easter holidays, and in return they asked customers to donate money to the charities that they support.

 

The collection tins have been counted, and donations from the sunflower seed campaign and other recent fundraising initiatives has meant that Squire’s has been able to donate over £2,500 to help various local charities.

 

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s, commented: “We know that many charities have found it a challenge to raise money during the pandemic, so we wanted to do something to help them and cheer people up at the same time. Thanks to the generosity of our customers, we were able to donate this terrific amount to the various local charities that each of our garden centres support."

 

Some of the comments from the charities that Squire’s support include:

Thank you for the fundraising efforts at Squires Crawley, we truly appreciate the donation, which will go a long way in helping the family and friend carers we support in West Sussex.”

Sonia Mangan, Carers Support West Sussex

 

“We are incredibly grateful to the team at Squire’s and the customers for their continued support.”

Louise Bingham, Horsley & Bookham Riding for the Disabled

 

“As well as helping to raise the profile of The Meath Epilepsy Charity, this donation from Squire’s is a very helpful boost to us, as we work hard to fundraise to cover the cost of our daily activity sessions which offer the people we support a fulfilled life.”

Helen Jackson, The Meath Epilepsy Charity

 

“We are grateful to the support Squire’s Long Ditton has offered us over a number of years. Thank you so much for developing this campaign and fundraising for the veterans we care for.”

Lauren Baker, Royal Star & Garter

 

Squire’s has raised money for the following local charities

Squire’s Centre       Local Charity                                                                        

Badshot Lea            Woodlarks Camp Site                                            

Cobham                 Cancer Research UK                                              

Crawley                 Carers Support West Sussex                               

Frensham               Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care                            

Hersham                Elmbridge Mencap                                                  

Long Ditton             Royal Star & Garter                                                

Milford                   The Meath                                                                

Reigate                  SASH Charity                                                           

Shepperton             Quest Riding for The Disabled                            

Stanmore               Penniwells Riding for The Disabled                   

Twickenham           Integrated Neurological Services                      

Washington            Chestnut Tree House                                             

West Horsley           Horsley & Bookham Riding for the Disabled   

Woking                  Woking Age Concern                                             

Wokingham            COATS For Crowthorne’s Seniors           

Dobbies announces second Northern Ireland store

Dobbies has announced plans for a second store in Northern Ireland, located at The Junction Retail and Leisure Park. This is part of a £10m investment in the shopping destination...


 

Dobbies has announced plans for a second store in Northern Ireland, located at The Junction Retail and Leisure Park. This is part of a £10m investment in the shopping destination.

 

At 110,000 sq ft, it will be one of the biggest stores in the Dobbies’ estate and will create in the region of 150 new full and part-time roles, making it one of the biggest employers at The Junction.

 

Existing retail space will be redeveloped to incorporate a ‘not your average’ garden centre experience for customers, with plants and gardening products; pet department; home and cookshop; books, toys and gifts; as well as seasonal items. There will also be a foodhall and restaurant.

 

Graeme Jenkins, CEO at Dobbies said: “Our Lisburn store is one of our most popular and we want to build on this success with a complementary store in Antrim. The Junction Retail and Leisure Park is a fantastic location and this development reinforces our ongoing ambition for growth.

 

“The Junction has a strong retail offer and we are very much looking forward to working with them, contributing to a must-visit leisure and shopping destination.”

 

Welcoming the news, Lotus Property Managing Director, Alastair Coulson commented: “We are thrilled to be able to reveal Dobbies as our latest addition at The Junction. This is a real boost not just for The Junction, but for Antrim and Northern Ireland as well, bringing significant investment and jobs to the area.

 

“The last year has proven to be a very difficult trading environment for many retailers but this decision by a growing company likes Dobbies is a massive vote of confidence in The Junction as a retail destination.

 

“Dobbies proposal to open one of their largest stores anywhere in the UK complements brilliantly our existing portfolio at the retail park and our long-term vision to transform The Junction into one of the largest retail and leisure destinations in Northern Ireland. We look forward to working with the company in the coming months to deliver this exciting project.”

 

A public consultation on the plans will commence in the coming weeks.

 
Introducing Pelargonium for Europe – helping to increase sales and educate consumers

Plant retailers will be pleased to learn that there is a thriving dedicated marketing initiative designed to help drive sales of pelargoniums and increase consumer engagement with this summer favourite...


 

Plant retailers will be pleased to learn that there is a thriving dedicated marketing initiative designed to help drive sales of pelargoniums and increase consumer engagement with this summer favourite.

 

Pelargonium for Europe (PfE) is working to change the way that pelargoniums are perceived by bringing them to the masses and highlighting their many unique and pleasing characteristics, whilst also helping to shine a light on the thriving European horticulture sector and its world-leading production and breeding programmes. The ultimate aim is to encourage more producers and retailers to optimise the opportunities afforded by pelargoniums and to increase sales of these much-loved blooms.

 

The consumer demographic

Currently PfE operates a dedicated campaign in 22 European countries and it receives EU funding to maximise the size and scope of the project in six of them: Germany, Austria, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland. Each country works towards a common goal and focuses on key consumer target groups; demographics which are perceived to be the biggest sales opportunity for the product.

 

In the case of pelargoniums, extensive market data showed that those target groups in transformative stages of life would be more responsive to pelargoniums and their many USPs, such as those aged between 25 and 30, and also 50 and 65. The latter, summarised as “New Life Builders”, are consumers who have reached the end of their professional careers and have seen their children fly the nest. These are consumers who will recognise pelargoniums in their many varieties and are likely to be loyal customers, buying plants often and confidently. Career or Family Builders, the name given to summarise the younger, 25 to 35-year-old consumers, are known to buy differently, and will be responsive to pelargoniums’ colourful, cost effective qualities, ease of care and maintenance.

 

To reach these different core consumer groups, photography and written content is created to speak to them individually, whilst also engaging with the rising number of plant-oriented garden and nature lovers, as well as creative urban types who are engaging with gardening in a way not seen previously. Content works to position pelargoniums as suitable for modern living and contemporary interior and exterior decor schemes, countering dismissive labels such as ‘old fashioned’ or ‘outdated’.

 

The PfE campaign implements a combination of measures including conventional PR activities such as news releases and special feature content, as well as media collaborations with magazines, influencers, vloggers and bloggers, cross-channel digital and social media activities as well as a range of creative promotional initiatives from product placement on TV shows and fashion shoots through to partnering with festivals, hosting pop-ups, giveaways, installations, workshops and more. Closely engaging with the green trade, it also runs campaigns at POS offering materials to retailers and reaches the green industry through trade press, partnerships with leading players, associations and educators as well as at events such as meetings and trade fairs.

 

Trade activities

At trade level, the focus of the PfE campaign is on specialised retailers as they represent important channels for securing long-term sales. The campaign also aims to support producers and others throughout the supply chain and has partnered with numerous industry associations including the Bureau Horticole Régional in France, Zentralverband Gartenbau in Germany, LRF Trädgård in Sweden, Opplysningskontoret for blomster og planter in Norway and Kauppapuutarhaliitto ry in Finland.

 

Campaign content is driven to help retailers to better understand the breadth available under the banner of pelargoniums, and offers a range of measures specifically aimed at supporting the green industry including point of sale material such as posters, banners and care cards; texts and videos offering advice on care, sales and promotion; free professional images, and other marketing materials.

 

All of this content can be found in Pelargonium for Europe’s trade website where retailers can access and download content for use throughout the season. This is all about arming retailers with the tools they need to drive sales and optimise their social media and direct marketing content, without having to invest time in the creation and design work.

 

Trade focused PR content is also created to provide easy to achieve ‘wins’ within the retail environment. This content includes top tips for driving sales including advice on point of sale, plant locations and supporting signage, staff training and tips for educating end users via marketing communication and social media activity. This “outside thinking” provides retailer with a fresh look at the way they sell and offers new, inspirational advice that makes then rethink the consumer journey in-store and, in turn, helps consumers to see pelargoniums differently.

 

Talking about the campaign, Anna Kaszewiak, an expert at Bronisze, the biggest wholesale market in Poland, said: “The Pelargonium for Europe campaign hit the bullseye for us. As plants, pelargoniums are a permanent element of the Polish landscape and idyllic life. Often speaking about pelargoniums, our thoughts return to adolescence, to grandma’s windowsills. For several years they have been experiencing their comeback thanks to newer and more interesting varieties in terms of colour palette and forms. Thanks to the wonderful materials made available by PfE, the average consumer has an opportunity to learn the basic rules of growing and taking care of this amazing and very long flowering plant.  Colourful leaflets, packed full of knowledge and inspiration are a great tool for beginner gardeners. Thanks to them, our customers know how to take care of them, and how to combine them with other plants.”

 

Echoing Anna’ feedback is Reiner Höpken, store owner and Chairman of Bundesverband Einzelhandelsgaertner in Germany. Reiner said: “The pelargonium advertising material conveys joie de vivre, and also gives an impression of the variety of colours and shapes of pelargoniums, something that is difficult to convey without this material. I personally find the large poster, flags and ceiling hangers to be beneficial in the retail environment.”

 

Hundreds of retailers in Germany have also hosted a dedicated and highly successful annual pelargonium POS competition in partnership with PfE. The competition sees thousands of consumers participate for the chance to win high-value prizes such as holiday vouchers, giving retailers an opportunity to engage with their end-customers with all expenses covered by PfE.

 

The results - 2020

The first year of PfE’s latest EU-funded programme took place in 2020 and it was hit by the pandemic which coincided with the start of the key pelargonium sales period, but nonetheless the campaign delivered.

 

Among only the six EU-funded countries, a total of 691.4 million people were reached via PR which exceeded targets, whilst the online profile through the website www.pelargoniumforeurope.com and social media platforms brought pelargoniums to the attention of over 120,000 people.

 

Media co-operations also proved extremely effective. The local PR teams promoting PfE used a wealth of creative methods to achieve important exposure opportunities including product placement and coverage in print and online publications, as well as through broadcast media and via vital social influencers. 

Across just six of the total campaign countries, these high-value partnerships tallied 36 online, 26 print, 9 TV, 6 outdoor and 4 radio - reaching at an estimated 142 million people and not including the many publications created through classic PR.

 

The green industry offering via websites, trade PR and POS proved a strong way to connect with the wider industry to develop trust and awareness which in turn increases promotional support and sales. Whilst printed POS materials could not be delivered in all countries due to the lockdowns, through trade newsletters and special digital delivery materials, the campaign showed industry that it continues to support it.

 

But what do these results mean for the green trade?

Partners of PfE have commented on an influx of positivity regarding pelargoniums that coincides with the ongoing communication and perception activities; positivity which translates into an increase in sales.

 

Media and consumer engagement with PfE activity has demonstrated a thirst for content, whilst the core customer demographic being most likely to adopt new behaviours – including the purchase of pelargoniums – coupled with growers continuing to deliver over 145 different pelargonium varieties, point to ongoing growth in plant sales.

 

The long-term growth expectations for the pelargonium market are expected to mirror that of the poinsettia market, which has been heavily supported by Stars for Europe (SfE), PfE’s sister marketing initiative, for 20 years. Latest data from SfE shows that consumption of poinsettias amongst the younger target market of Family/Career Builders (age 25-29) increased by 170% in 2019 compared to 2014-2017 while their spend on general flowering houseplants only increased by 30%.

 

In fact, Pelargonium for Europe targets a 2% increase – or about four to five million plants - in the sales of pelargonium cuttings each year. It also aims to stabilise and/or increase average price at consumer level. In doing so, the campaign will maintain or raise the position of pelargoniums in the top ten list of bedding and outdoor plants.

 

Looking ahead, there is no question that pelargonium sales are facing a significant growth opportunity. The influx of an army of new gardeners during 2020’s lockdown has helped to educate new customers on the joys pelargoniums on a scale that would not have been possible without an enforced stay at home order. However, this momentum now needs to be captured and the activity of the PfE campaign throughout 2020 and 2021 has helped to lay a significant amount of groundwork for the future growth of pelargonium sales and the supporting PfE campaign.

 

This year’s campaign is already hard at work to capture this new gardening army, promoting the plants under the banner of ‘My Freestyle Garden’ which shows how geraniums can seamlessly blend into a beautifully relaxed and natural space, and ‘Urban Summer Escapes’ which offers a taste of blissful summer holidays suitable for styling on anyone’s balcony, terrace or even an outdoor home office. Alongside trend photography, a large number of DIY design ideas are also produced, from clever planters to decorative centrepieces and more.

 

To find out more please visit www.pelargoniumforeurope.com or www.pelargonium-trade.com

Unprecedented Demand - Record Easter garden centre sales lead to stock shortages - Read GTN's April issue on-line now

In GTN's April issue of news and information for garden centre professionals:

  • Back to the NEC for Glee!
  • Life – Norfolk Leisure Style
  • 1000 years and growing at Coolings
  • Investment is back on the agenda for garden centres
  • Pictures of a Record Easter from Aylett Nurseries, Burston Garden Centre and Scotsdales
  • Unprecedented demand leads to stock shortages
  • Enhancing our understanding of New Gardeners
  • GIMA Charity Golf Day returns this summer
  • B-bag takes Extreme Lounging to new places
    LOFA Update – Are we over the worst of the shortages?
  • HTA Column – Success Brings Stress

 


Unprecedented Demand - Record Easter garden centre sales lead to stock shortages.  

 

In GTN's April issue of news and information for garden centre professionals:

  • Back to the NEC for Glee!
  • Life – Norfolk Leisure Style
  • 1000 years and growing at Coolings
  • Investment is back on the agenda for garden centres
  • Pictures of a Record Easter from Aylett Nurseries, Burston Garden Centre and Scotsdales
  • Unprecedented demand leads to stock shortages
  • Enhancing our understanding of New Gardeners
  • GIMA Charity Golf Day returns this summer
  • B-bag takes Extreme Lounging to new places
    LOFA Update – Are we over the worst of the shortages?
  • HTA Column – Success Brings Stress

 
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Man arrested after burglary at garden centre

A man has been arrested after a burglary at Greenacres Garden Centre on Aldermaston Road, Basingstoke...


A man has been arrested after a burglary at Greenacres Garden Centre on Aldermaston Road, Basingstoke.

 

Police were called just after 9pm on Wednesday (June 2) after two men were seen breaking into the garden centre. Several tubs of paint were stolen but have been recovered.

 

Ministry of Defence Police officers were first on scene and arrested a 27-year-old man from Wokingham. He remains in custody at this time.

 

Enquiries are ongoing to trace the second suspect.

 

Officers investigating would like to hear from anyone who has any information. Please phone 101 with reference 44210215218.

 
Core gardening feeds sales increases
GTN Bestsellers Garden Products - week 21

Despite the dip in sales last week, garden product sales year to date remain up against all years back to 2017 with core gardening lines of plant feeds, weed and pest control all selling well...


Despite the dip in sales last week, garden product sales year to date remain up against all years back to 2017 with core gardening lines of plant feeds, weed and pest control all selling well. Plus, of course, the continued sales increase for pots and pot feet.

  • Evergreen Garden Care Levington Tomorite 1L + 30% Free stayed at the top of the GTN Garden Products chart as everything in the garden put on a spurt of growth.
  • Westland Growing Success Slug Killer Advanced Organic + 15% Extra Free climbed 15 places up the chart to No 15.
  • Woodlodge Standard Spang Pot 2.5 inch was the highest re-entry at No 8.

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

 
Dramatic increases in gardening activity
GTN Bestsellers Growing Media - week 21

Growing media sales show the continued dramatic increase in gardening activity. Year to date the GTN Bestsellers Growing Media Top 50 sales index, sits 29% higher than 2018 and 16% higher than 2019...


Growing media sales show the continued dramatic increase in gardening activity. Year to date the GTN Bestsellers Growing Media Top 50 sales index, sits 29% higher than 2018 and 16% higher than 2019.  

 

Last week 50% of the lines in the Top 50 Growing Media chart were peat free or non peat items and that represented 38% on the Top 50 volume.  

  • Westland Top Soil (Value Bag) 35 litres was the highest placed non peat growing media line and No 5.
  • Westland New Horizon All Plant Compost 50 litres was the highest placed peat free line at No 8.
  • Evergreen Garden Care Levington Multipurpose Peat Free + John Innes 50 litres was the highest new entry at No 35.

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

 
Will Springwatch boost sales?
GTN Bestsellers Wild Bird Care - week 21

Wild Bird Care sales in the GTN Bestsellers Epos data continue to show signs of decline, now down 11% on 2019 levels year to date. Perhaps the return of Springwatch on BBC2 will prompt customers to pick up some feed and a feeder over the coming weeks...


Wild Bird Care sales in the GTN Bestsellers Epos data continue to show signs of decline, now down 11% on 2019 levels year to date. Perhaps the return of Springwatch on BBC2 will prompt customers to pick up some feed and a feeder over the coming weeks.

  • RHS Suet Balls 60 Tub continue to lead the way at the top of the GTN chart.
  • Gardman Fat Snax, tub of 50, are the highest climber at No 10.
  • Smart Garden’s Chapelwood Squirrel Proof Suet Ball Feeder is the only Top 50 New Entry of the week, in at No 21.

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

 
New chairman of Nursery Trade Fair Foundation

Jan de Vries will be the new chairman of the Nursery Trade Fair Foundation in Boskoop. He succeeds Jan Willem Griep who has held this position for 12 years...


Jan de Vries will be the new chairman of the Nursery Trade Fair Foundation in Boskoop. He succeeds Jan Willem Griep who has held this position for 12 years. 

 

De Vries owns Boot & Dart Boomkwekerijen BV, Griffioen Wassenaar BV and De Noordhoek perennials BV. 

 

The Nursery Trade Fair Foundation's purpose is to promote trade in nursery stock products. To this end, the organisation manages and operates real estate at the International Trade Centre in Hazerswoude-Dorp and organises the annual Plantarium trade fair. This trade fair could not physically take place last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A fully digital version of the trade fair was held instead. 

 

According to outgoing chairman Jan Willem Griep, this was a bold choice. "It has taught us that seeing and speaking to each other physically plays an important role in the experience of the trade fair.

 

"I think the future lies in the combination of a physical and digital trade fair organisation. After 12 years of contributing with great pleasure to the promotion of the trade and its wonderful products, I leave the development of a mix that appeals to the trade to my successor, whom I wish every success."

 

According to Jan de Vries, the market, society and the sector are changing rapidly. "It is therefore important that the organisation responds to this in its activities and constantly innovates. There will only be a future for Plantarium if the trade fair is able to inspire and activate businesses to make changes. That is the task I am setting myself with the new administration."

 

Due to the expiry of the regular term of office, two other board changes will take place at the Nursery Trade Fair Foundation. Board member Gerard Berkelmans and secretary/treasurer Wilfred van Polanen are making way for Bernard Oosterom and Michiel Gerritsen.

 
How cities benefit from taking an extra-dimensional approach to city greening

‘Green roofs and walls’ is the third climate action topic in the series of City of London Green City Briefings presented by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), in collaboration with the UK Livery Company, the Worshipful Company of Gardeners...


As the environmental, health and economic benefits of green roofs and walls are recognised across the globe, cities are integrating green infrastructure to both solve sustainability issues and create a greener future.

 

‘Green roofs and walls’ is the third climate action topic in the series of City of London Green City Briefings presented by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), in collaboration with the UK Livery Company, the Worshipful Company of Gardeners.

 

Taking place on 15 June 2021, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm BST, this free-of-charge, one-hour briefing explores how green roofs and walls provide an extra-dimensional approach to city greening.

 

With introductions from Ms Daniela Rizzi, Senior Officer for Nature-Based Solutions and Biodiversity at ICLEI Europe, the Briefing will hear from Mr Dusty Gedge, President of the Federation of European Green Roofs and Walls, and Mr Kelvin Kan, Principal Architect & Facade Consultant and founder of AgFacadesign in Singapore.

 

Global uptake in creating a greener and wilder urban environment is having a positive impact onclimate change, urban cooling, sustainable water management, air quality, noise reduction, biodiversity, and general health and wellbeing in cities – and this is now being recognised by The World Health Organisation. With a body of evidence available to quantify the benefits, policymakers and decision-makers can confidently advocate projects to include green roofs and walls.

 

In his talk, Dusty Gedge will draw on his experience in London, UK, as a designer, policy maker,and technical advisor to demonstrate how green roofs and walls are the future of cities. He will show why and how vegetation on buildings can make a significant contribution to climate adaptation, sustainability, and biodiversity. And, how the environmental performance of soil and vegetation should be our starting point as we retrofit and build our way out of the climate emergency. 

 

Dusty says: “In the past, and still today, vegetation and soil has been seen as an aesthetic contribution to the city environment. However, to meet the challenges of the climate and biodiversity crisis greening cities should be first and foremost about performance across a whole range of environmental factors - biodiversity, cooling, storing rainwater in intense summer storms, and reduction of noise and air pollution. Finally, once these functions have been realised, cities need to ensure that such green spaces enhance the mental and physical health of the citizens who have access to them.”


Dusty will explain that, while aesthetics will play a significant part in this, green interventions need to take into account the resilience of such green spaces as the climate changes. 


“All this can be achieved at roof level whether a simple meadow or a rooftop park. Green roofs should be seen as core infrastructure and not just as a good thing to have from an aesthetic point of view.”

 

Mr Kelvin Kan will take the conversation further, explaining about green facades and how building construction can accommodate these. Sharing two examples in Singapore, Kelvin will share his personal experience on how greenery was incorporated and what the benefits of this greening are to occupants of the building and the developers. To encourage and assist private owners of property in Singapore to incorporate green development, the city does include incentives to help fund initiatives. This leads to question on who should control the design, and Kelvin addresses this for bothretrofitting buildings as well as new construction.

 

Questions taken from an audience covering more than 40 countries will be put to the speakers, with Daniela Rizzi leading the conversation to explore global adoption of green roofs and walls.  The series of City of London Green City Briefings encourage an open exchange of ideas and activities that enable and support global city resilience.


Register for the Green Roofs and Walls webinar at aiph.org/event/green-city-briefings-water-attenuation

 

 For more information contact AIPH Green City at greencity@aiph.org

 
Award-winning designer seeks gold medal hat-trick

Award-winning garden designer Tom Simpson has joined forces with Cancer Research UK to create a stunning garden at RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, highlighting the importance of gifts in wills to progress and breakthroughs in cancer research...


Award-winning garden designer Tom Simpson has joined forces with Cancer Research UK to create a stunning garden at RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, highlighting the importance of gifts in wills to progress and breakthroughs in cancer research.

 

Tom’s designs have already earned him the title of two-time RHS Gold Medal winner – first in 2018 and again in 2019 when his Cancer Research UK ‘Pledge Pathway to Progress’ garden design also won the People’s Choice Award and Best Construction. This year Tom hopes to win his third consecutive gold medal with his ‘Legacy Garden’ design for the charity.

 

The Cancer Research UK Legacy Garden at Hampton Court is the first of four gardens the charity will be exhibiting at RHS events across 2021 and 2022. Each designer has been given an identical brief, to create an immersive, contemplative space that symbolises how leaving a gift in a will to Cancer Research UK ensures research can continue to save lives for generations to come.

 

Tom’s Hampton Court space has been designed in the form of two interlinked circles to create an infinity symbol. A serpentine water feature flows through the garden, the source and end of which are both obscured from view. Both features represent the continuity and everlasting progress of cancer research, with each new breakthrough inspiring the next.

 

At the heart of the garden, where the two halves of the infinity symbol intersect, lies a curved boardwalk engraved with a personal message from a supporter who has pledged a gift in their will to Cancer Research UK. Nestled within the planting, providing a peaceful place to relax and watch the water, there is a sunken paved terrace where visitors can enjoy a quiet moment of reflection.

 

Tom uses a rich tapestry of bold drifts of flowering plants and a strong matrix of grasses in his planting scheme, creating a colourful and textural sensory experience as visitors move through the garden. The core colors are the purples and pinks associated with the Cancer Research UK logo, including Salvia ‘Amethyst’ and Veronicastrum f.roseum ‘Pink Glow’. These will be accented with zesty lime greens and pops of yellow.

 

Garden designer Tom Simpson said: “It’s such an honour to be selected once again to work with Cancer Research UK and be one of a handful of designers tasked with bringing to life this incredibly important message at RHS shows over the next two years.

 

“One in two of us will get cancer, but all of us can support the research that will beat it. I wanted to showcase my own personal appreciation of those who have pledged gifts in their wills, which fund over a third of Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work. The garden’s figure of eight infinity shape, the never-ending water feature and personal engraving from an existing pledger, felt like really powerful ways to highlight how these gifts keep on giving.”

 

The RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 2021 is open to the public from the 6 to 11 July.

 

For more information visit cruk.org/rhs-hampton-2021  

 
The best of last week's

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


 
BGC's Harrogate centre opens - Exclusive photo tour

British Garden Centres 58th centre at Harrogate opened yesterday where Charles Stubbs and Anthony Harker enjoyed the welcome sunshine...


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

British Garden Centres 58th centre at Harrogate opened yesterday where Charles Stubbs and Anthony Harker enjoyed the welcome sunshine with the rest of the BGC team.

 

Harrogate centre manager: Peter Williams

 

Charles, Amy and Libby Stubbs welcome the Harrogate centre and their customers to the family.  Amy Stubbs led the project from start to finish.

 

BGC were delighted with trade on the first day.  "As the team had worked late into the night on Friday we chose to not say anything online about the opening. Over the last couple of weeks we have had potential customers stopping at the site every single day so we were confident that we would be busy enough once the signs changed on the roadside," reported BGC's Boyd Douglas-Davies.

 

"Last weekend we handed out 4,800 leaflets at the Harrogate Spring Essentials (Flower Show) to the public promoting the new centre and the wider group. The voucher on the leaflet started to appear yesterday, which is great."

 

Charles added: "Huge thanks to all of our suppliers, both growers and manufacturers for finding us a garden centres worth of stock at the busiest time of year. The merchandising teams have been fantastic and worked alongside our team to create the centre really quickly."

 

"BGC colleagues have helped from all areas of the business and coped with the short time frame and some appalling weather.  Thank you to them all."

 

 
Plantable children’s book wins Dragons’ Den offer

A Leicester-based company which makes children’s books with a difference has secured investment to grow the business after appearing on the BBC One hit series Dragons’ Den...


 

A Leicester-based company which makes children’s books with a difference has secured investment to grow the business after appearing on the BBC One hit series Dragons’ Den.

 

Willsow Books supplies books that once children have finished reading them they can cut off the back cover and pant them.

 

Each book tells the story of a vegetable or a herb and the back cover is impregnated with 500 seeds that grow into carrots, parsley, dill, basil or lettuce. The books retail for £9.99.

 

Company founder Tom Willday and business partner James Coulthurst pitched the product in the Den, and Dragon Sara Davies agreed to put £20,000 into the business for a 15% stake.

 

“It’s a unique concept. I’ve never seen or heard of anything like this before, so it seems like a great idea,” said Sara.

 

James Coulthurst said in his pitch: “As soon as we got the book into people’s hands we knew it would be a success so we set out to sell to as many garden centres and gift shops as we could.”

 

The business partners accepted Sara’s offer after she reduced her demand for 20% of the company to 15%, beating off fellow Dragons Peter Jones and Deborah Meaden, who also wanted 20%.

 

Tom Willday and James Coulthurst can be seen entering the Dragons’ Den in BBC iplayer at

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000w81f/dragons-den-series-18-episode-8. Their pitch begins 30 minutes into the programme.

 
Something exciting is on its way...

 

We have all experienced the ups and downs of a very turbulent year, but for Hartman the year has offered a plethora of exciting opportunities. We are moving to a brand-new Headquarters in Telford, doubling the warehouse space and office capacity and have expanded our team with the appointment of 8 new members to service the growing number of customers and a booming year for consumer demand...


 

We have all experienced the ups and downs of a very turbulent year, but for Hartman the year has offered a plethora of exciting opportunities. We are moving to a brand-new Headquarters in Telford, doubling the warehouse space and office capacity and have expanded our team with the appointment of 8 new members to service the growing number of customers and a booming year for consumer demand.

 

The shiny new HQ will be the home to our 2022 collection trade show in June, with an impressive 800sqm showroom to showcase the full range.

 

What to expect...
A bigger and better space means a bigger and better show, allowing us to unveil our latest collections for 2022 and we're hoping you're just as excited as we are! Its’ hard to keep such exciting news under wraps.... but we have to.... just a little longer. With new products on the way, we want you to be the first people to cast your eyes on all the newness we have to offer. 

 

 

New for 2022...

  • New 800sqm Showroom
  • New Headquarters in Telford
  • 7 New collections to view
  • Hartman favourite ranges have been extended – Dubai, Heritage, Vienna 

You won't want to miss this year’s trade show, so don't hesitate to book an appointment to come and visit us! Spaces will fill up quickly and we are only accepting appointment only due to covid-restrictions. Lunch and refreshments will be available for our guests.

 



Our COVID secure show opens: 14th June 2021. We're looking forward to seeing you all! 


Website: www.hartmanuk.com
Instagram: @hartman_UK -  www.instagram.com/hartman_uk

Facebook: Hartmanuk - www.facebook.com/HartmanUK

Twitter: @love_hatman – www.twitter.com/love_hartman

 
Klass opens in Bourne Valley Garden Centre

Klass ladies wear has opened a new clothing department within Bourne Valley Garden Centre in Surrey...


 

Klass ladies wear has opened a new clothing department within Bourne Valley Garden Centre in Surrey...

Klass is a family business based in Rochdale employing over 450 staff throughout the UK. The ladies wear range is currently available in over 150 retail sites, of which half are in garden centres. 

 

Designed for the more ‘young at heart’ lady, Klass is recognised for its style, quality and value for money. 

 

 

Paul Elding, owner of Bourne Valley Garden Centre, said: “I am delighted to welcome Klass ladies wear to Bourne Valley. Since Edinburgh Woollen Mills lease ended earlier this year, we have been looking to introduce a fashion retailer known for their modern designs in keeping with our core customer and Klass certainly fits the bill. Their approach throughout our negotiations has been one of creating a long and fruitful partnership which has been very refreshing.”

 

Klass director David Cohen commented: “When I first visited Bourne Valley it was clear there was a real appetite for a quality ladies wear brand so it's very pleasing to have been approached by Paul and his team. It’s been a strange year but Klass continues to seek expansion within garden centres and are in a unique position to take advantage of any opportunities that present themselves.”

 

 

Klass contact: email david.cohen@eleganze.com or call 07715 495 967. 

 

See gallery of Klass clothing range below:

 
Barton Grange Christmas 2020 - Exclusive GTN Xtra Photo Tour

In advance of the launch of GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020, GTN's Northern Correspondent, Steve Myatt, paid a visit to Barton Grange to bring you this first GTN Xtra Christmas photo tour.


In advance of the launch of GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020, GTN's Northern Correspondent, Steve Myatt, paid a visit to Barton Grange to bring you this first GTN Xtra Christmas photo tour.

 

To add your garden centre Christmas photo tour to GTN Xtra simply get snapping and enter The Greatest Christmas Awards.  See the categories here.  Send an e-mail to trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk for more details

 

 
Squires Badshot Lea - Christmas 2020
Sneak preview of Squires Badshot Lea Greatest Christmas Awards entry
See Squires Bashot Lea's Christmas Awards entry photo tour here

 

Here's a sneak preview of the photo tour submitted by Squires at Badshot Lea as part of their entry in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020.

 

There's over £7,000 worth of prizes to be won in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020 so get snapping and enter your garden centre team today!

 

Full details are here.

 

 
Perrywood at Christmas 2020 - with correct photo gallery now...
Sneak preview of Perrywoods Greatest Christmas Awards entry
See Perrywoods Christmas Awards Entry Photo Tour here

 

Here's a sneak preview of Perrywoods photo tour entry in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards for 2020, including the vital ingredient for all entries, team photos. See the gallery of photos below.  Apologies for the wrong photos being included in yesterdays edition.

 

There's over £7,000 worth of prizes to be won in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards so get snapping and enter today.  Full details can be found here.

 

 
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 Garden 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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

All the latest news from the world of pet products


 
Major companies exhibiting at AQUA 2021 in October

Companies eager to show off their new products have revealed that the return of AQUA 2021 is a crucial moment in the aquatics and water gardening industry as the UK continues to unlock Covid-19 restrictions. The biennial exhibition takes place at Telford International Centre on 13-14 October 2021...


 

Companies eager to show off their new products have revealed that the return of AQUA 2021 is a crucial moment in the aquatics and water gardening industry as the UK continues to unlock Covid-19 restrictions.

 

The biennial exhibition takes place at Telford International Centre on 13-14 October 2021 where manufacturers and suppliers get the chance to meet face-to-face with aquatic and garden centre retailers.

 

With more than four months still to go before the show, many of the industry’s leading companies have booked stand space, including Aqua One, Aquatic Now, Beaver Plants, D-D The Aquarium Solution, Evolution Aqua/Bermuda, Fish Science, Neil Hardy, NT Laboratories, OASE and Pond Xpert.

 

Mark Winter, managing director of Aqua One, said: “As far as the aquatic and water gardening industry is concerned, this is the event that everyone looks forward to every two years.”

 

Mark, who is also chairman of AQUA 2021, added: “It’s the perfect opportunity for retailers and suppliers to reunite after all the pains of the past year. If there was ever a time to freshen up your retail offering and get your business ready for the future, then make sure you visit AQUA 2021 in October.”

 

Another company excited by the prospect of meeting up with buyers is PM Aquatic Imports Ltd, whose Jeremy Gay said: “The AQUA show is the best place for aquatic companies to network and develop more business. After a successful first year, PM Aquatic is eagerly returning to AQUA this October, and this time with a bigger stand. It's an energised atmosphere where visitors come to place orders, and we'll gain new business this year for sure.”

 

It’s a similar story for Monkfield Nutrition. The company’s head of sales Jamie Blackstone commented: “AQUA 2021 is the perfect opportunity for Monkfield Nutrition to reconnect face to face with existing and potential new customers after a ‘lost year’ to the pandemic. We are looking forward to welcoming visitors onto our stand to meet the team and view the new additions to our brands.”

 

A strong international presence at the two-day exhibition will be represented by Aquadip, AquaLine and Moerings (The Netherlands), Aqualantis (Portugal), Prodibio (France), Eheim and JBL (Germany), Tropica Aquarium Plants (Denmark), Xtreme Aquatics Foods and Zoo Med (America). 

 

Joey Abrahams, of Aquadip, summed up the significance of the show for international exhibitors. “This event is crucial for our business and is the ideal opportunity to meet current and new UK customers. It’s always a good show.”

 

Since Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced in February how the UK would emerge from lockdown, including the resumption of indoor and outdoor events, preparations for AQUA have gathered pace.

 

Show organiser Annie Foord said: “I’m happy to report that the UK’s major companies are again heading for Telford and we will be welcoming an impressive number of international businesses, who regard AQUA as their major platform to showcase products to UK buyers.”

 

Details of the 2021 event can be found on the exhibition’s website  www.aquatelford.co.uk, which includes the latest show news and how to register to visit.

 

To discover more reasons why AQUA has become a vital date in the water gardening and aquatics trade calendar, retailers and suppliers can view a special video of the 2019 event at https://vimeo.com/371139081.

New dog hydration product launches

Furr Boost, a new dog wellbeing drink, has been launched ahead of July’s Pet Hydration Month, to offer dog owners a convenient, natural way to aid dog wellbeing and hydration...


Dog owners need look no further when seeking a nutritious, healthy way to keep their pooches hydrated this summer. Furr Boost, a new dog wellbeing drink, has been launched ahead of July’s Pet Hydration Month, to offer dog owners a convenient, natural way to aid dog wellbeing and hydration.

 

Furr Boost is available in three tasty flavours - beef, broccoli and blueberry; chicken, butternut squash and cranberry; and pork, sweet potato and apple. Each flavour is packed with natural superfoods, vitamins and added oils from salmon, flaxseed and coconut. They are completely free of artificial preservatives, colourants and antioxidants.

 

As well as providing a natural, junk-free complement to a dog’s daily water intake, Furr Boost can aid a range of concerns including anxiety, digestion, immunity, hydration, and can help to support a healthy metabolism and skin and coat.

 

Furr Boost can be served on its own as a tasty and hydrating treat or poured over food, and is ideal for dogs on dry, wet or dry combination diets. It can also be frozen on licking mats and used as a refreshing treat, perfect for the warmer months.

 

The wellbeing drink was created by Louise Toal for her dog, Phoebe, as she wanted to ensure she was giving Phoebe the very best products made using only natural ingredients. Using her experience gained from 20 years working as a Technical Manager in food safety and quality assurance in the drinks industry, Louise developed Furr Boost as a refreshing complement to water. Thanks to its compact size, it is readily available to ensure Phoebe always receives the hydration she needs when out and about too.

 

Louise commented: “We only want the very best for our pets and we will do everything we can to give them long and happy lives. That’s why I set out to find only the best and most nutritional products for Phoebe and in the end developed one of my own!”

 

She continued: “It was important to me to ensure that Furr Boost is made using only natural ingredients, and that it is packed full of all the things dogs need to be healthy, happy and hydrated. Many dogs don’t drink enough water, so Furr Boost provides a way to hydrate them while supporting their general wellbeing, all while they enjoy a delicious treat!”

 

The wellbeing drink is packaged in Tetra Pak® cartons so they are easy to transport, serve and recycle, but also protect the product and keep it fresh. The packaging was designed to minimise the use of plastic and the impact on the environment while being sturdy and strong. They are as compact as possible too, meaning less lorries on the road and a smaller carbon footprint for Furr Boost, and in turn, its valued customers.

 

Furr Boost is available to buy online in multipacks which contain eight 200ml cartons of each flavour for £15.75 Alternatively new customers might like to try the introduction taster pack which includes one 200ml carton of each flavour for £5.99. All orders over £25 are delivered free of charge.

 

Pet Hydration Month is marked each July to raise awareness of the importance of keeping pets hydrated and to remind pet owners to always ensure they have access to fresh drinking water.

 

For more information, and to help keep your pooch hydrated this summer please visit https://furrboost.com/.

 
PetQuip supports and promotes the British exhibitor group at ‘in person’ Zoomark International show

UK pet product manufacturers and suppliers are being given a great chance to kickstart their international business with the return of an ‘in person’ Zoomark International show on 10-12 November 2021...


 

UK pet product manufacturers and suppliers are being given a great chance to kickstart their international business with the return of an ‘in person’ Zoomark International show.

 

PetQuip is already planning a physical presence at the rescheduled event, which will take place in Bologna, Italy, on 10-12 November 2021, and will be organising a British exhibitor group at the show.

 

The organisers of this international pet trade exhibition have confirmed they are putting all the necessary health and safety guarantees in place, and with the continuing vaccination programme, they are confident the event will go ahead as planned in November. 

 

Now that announcement has been made by the organisers, those UK companies intending to exhibit can work on their arrangements for the show. For eligible SMEs taking part there should be the added advantage of Department for International Trade grants to help offset the cost of a stand. PetQuip has put in a request for grants to be made available for the new show dates — at previous editions, grants for at least £1,000 per eligible exhibitor have been available.

 

Companies interested in exhibiting at the 2021 show should contact Katie-Mai Smith at katie-mai@petquip.com for further information or visit www.petquip.com for stand details, costs and booking forms.

 

News that the show is going ahead has been received enthusiastically by exhibitors, highlighting the importance of this event for the industry, a key opportunity to network and do business in person in 2021.

 

Amanda Sizer Barrett, PetQuip’s Director General, said: “I’m sure everyone in the industry is looking forward to a return of ‘in person’ international trade exhibitions and it’s great to hear that Zoomark has announced it will go ahead in November.

 

“It will be a good opportunity for UK firms to show that Britain is back open for business so I would urge UK pet business to take full advantage by exhibiting at the show within the PetQuip exhibitor group. 

“Our team will be on hand to help new and experienced exporters to make the most of their presence at the show, with practical stand organisation, export advice, international market information and publicity, advance details of key buyers. Plus on the PetQuip stand at the show we will be directing buyers to exhibitors’ stands, providing logistical support and interpreters, and our help will continue afterwards to convert exhibitors’ sales enquiries into new business.”

 

Zoomark International 2021 will be presenting its New Products area with the addition of a New Trends area, showcasing technological innovations and products that focus on sustainability and the circular economy, a rapidly rapidly expanding topic within the pet industry. 

 

In parallel to the ‘in person event’, Zoomark International is also developing a synergistic digital platform to boost the reach of its exhibitors. This will be both a resource for those planning a visit to the event, and also will enable industry professionals from further afield – for whom travel may prove complicated – to take part in the Bologna event.

 

Please contact PetQuip if you would like to book a stand at Zoomark 2021 and benefit from membership of the association or if you require any further advice and assistance: 

Email: info@petquip.com

Website: www.petquip.com