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Garden Re-Leaf Day Plantathons get underway
24 hour Plantathons for Garden Re-Leaf Day have got underway at Squires Bashot Lea (above), Hillview Studley Garden Store (below) and Alton Garden Centre in Essex (bottom) ...
Garden Re-Leaf Day activities have got off to a great start with 24 hour Plantathons starting at Squires Bashot Lea (above), Hillview Studley Garden Store (below) and Alton Garden Centre in Essex (bottom).
Squire’s Garden Centres have kicked off at 2pm with the help of Badshot Lea Village Infant School. The squire’s team led by MD Dennis Espleywill be planting day and night in order to raise money for Greenfingers. Customers can come along to Squire’s Badshot Lea (Thu 17th March 2-6pm) or Squire’s Twickenham (Fri 18th March 9am-2pm) to watch the Plant-athon, get hints and tips, ask gardening questions, and even roll up their sleeves and get involved in the planting! Specially planted up Spring pots from the Plant-athon will be sold, and 20% from each sale will be given to Greenfingers, to raise money for this fantastic charity. Squire’s Managing Director Dennis Espley is leading the Plant-athon, and he will be planting day and night! Some very special guests will be joining him: - Andy McIndoe (Squire’s Twickenham – Fri 18th March, 9.30am-12.30pm). Andy McIndoe is one of the UK’s leading horticulturists, with a record 25 Gold Medals at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
- Andrew Gill (Squire’s Twickenham – Fri 18th March, 12pm-2.30pm). Andrew Gill is President of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture.
The Squires fundraising link is: https://www.justgiving.com/squires-24-hour-plant-athon At Hillview Studley Garden Store, Garden Re-Leaf Day founder, Boyd Douglas-Davies had help and support from David Domeney as his 24 hour endurance effort got underway. "We've already raised over £2,000," Boyd told GTN Xtra as he made final arrangements before his start at 4:00pm. "I'm really looking forward to seeing just how much the plantathons will raise. They will certainly raise the profile of Garden Re-Leaf Day!"
Boyd's 24hour Plant-Athon page is: https://www.justgiving.com/Boyd-Douglas-Davies/
Down at Alton Garden Centre in Essex, Andy Bunker tweeted "Plants- check.. Pots check..coffee- check..." in the middle of last night as he readied himself for the off. "Well as they say! I think COMMETH THE HOUR COMMETH THE MAN" he said this morning. "It all starts today at 4pm my 24 hour Plantathon to raise money for Greenfingers Garden Re-Leaf Day "I’m not begging [well I am]. "Please donate to the “sponsor me” link: https://www.justgiving.com/pete-lowis/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=fundraisingpage&utm_content=pete-lowis&utm_campaign=pfp-share, " Here's three good reasons why you should do it: 1 It's a great childrens charity. 2 It's going to be flipping cold at 3 in the morning!
3 I've got Man Flu but I'm still going ahead."
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Grovewell Garden Centres has acquired their third Centre at Hawkinge, near Folkestone and on target to be open for business by May. Re-developing the 17 acre site, previously home to MacFarlanes Garden & Butterfly Nursery, Director Edward Boult says, “We are very excited by this acquisition. After three very strong trading years it’s great to add a third Centre to the mix.”
Operation Manager Paul Dye added, “We have a lot of work ahead of us but we will have the first phase of the Plant Area at the new Folkestone Garden Centre open to the public in just over a month”. Centre Manager Paul Smith will be driving the Folkestone Centre forwards with plans for an Aquatic Centre & Groves Coffee Shop & Restaurant. He says, “We aim to build on the success and reputation of Canterbury and Tenterden Garden Centres. We’ve been overwhelmed by the support from staff and locals so far and I’m really looking forward to building a Centre we can all be proud of.”
Grovewell Garden Centres will now comprise the new Folkestone Garden Centre at Hawkinge, Canterbury Garden Centre & Tenterden. The latter, a family owned business, has been trading under Director Edward Boult and his team since April 1999. Purpose built Canterbury Garden Centre ( pictured above) opened Easter 2009.
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GTN's Trevor Pfeiffer is within reach of making his weight loss target of 14:04 by Garden Re-Leaf Day on March 18th and raise money for Greenfingers, but after another day of driving hundreds of miles for meetings it's going to be close.
"Greenfingers Garden Re-Leaf Day takes place on Friday 18th March 2016 - and I set myself a target to loose 1 stone between the GCA Conference and Garden Re-Leaf Day and raise money for Greenfingers by making it a sponosred slim.
"This weekend and into this week I've managed another 2 fast days and done plenty of dog walking whilst on business in Scotland which has taken my weight down to 14:06, so I only have a further 2 pounds to lose by Friday when I am the support team for the Garden Re-Leaf Day sponsored walk. I may end up doing part of the route if all the other walkers are well to help with those few extra ounces off.
"Immediately after conference I went down with a bout of man flu, so I was only able to get the diet up and running on Wednesday 3rd February. My start weight was registered as 15 stone 4 pounds.
 "On that plan I can eat normally on non-fast days but only a maximum of 600 calories on fast days. So far today I've managed on just 2 sticks of celery!
"Your donation to Greenfingers via https://www.justgiving.com/Trevor-Pfeiffer will give me all the extra motivation I need to make sure I get there.
"I'll keep you all updated with my progress in GTN Xtra. Thank you to all the people who have already sponsored me. I'm looking forward to raising more money for Greenfingers when I reach the target from all the kind people who've also said they would support me."
Next year I wonder how many pounds of lost weight can the UK gardening industry convert into £'s cash for Greenfingers by Garden Re-Leaf Day?
Garden Re-Leaf 2016 has already attracted eight top industry figures who will be staging 24 hour Plant-athons in garden centres beginning their Plant-athons on Thursday 17th and finishing on Friday the 18th. Poplars, Adrian Hall and Sunshine Garden Centres have all recently confirmed they will put on Garden Re-Leaf events in store.
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East Durham Garden Centre – formerly Plants R Ross – in Easington, Co. Durham, has been acquired by British Garden Centres, which now has a total of 10 stores in its portfolio.
According to the garden centre group, East Durham will be developed in the near future.
East Durham will join British Garden Centres existing group, which contains: Arcadia Garden Centre, Brigg Garden Centre, Chapel Garden Centre, Gilberdyke Garden Centre, Irton Garden Centre, Roxton Garden Centre, Spring Garden Centre, Towneley Garden Centre, and Woodthorpe Garden Centre.
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With the weather forecast set fair this weekend will be the start of the season as Garden Re-Leaf Day activities get underway...
If you’re looking for an easy way to get your customers involved in Garden Re-Leaf Day next Friday (18th March) how about asking your catering team to whisk up a special Garden Re-Leaf Day offer?
Thetford Garden Centre are serving a special vegetable soup and donating £1.00 to Greenfingers for every one served along with several other fun fundraising events
on the day.
If every garden centre joined in and raised £100 or more from simple ideas like these on Garden Re-Leaf Day then even more gardens at Children’s Hospices can be built in 2016.
www.gardenreleaf.co.uk
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Garden giftware company Fallen Fruits, whose themed, designer collections are inspired by nature, is set to open one of its largest ‘shop within a shop’ display areas at leading garden centre, Van Hage’s flagship store in Hertfordshire.The installation is set to be introduced to Van Hage’s Great Amwell store on March 18th, Garden Re-Leaf Day and there will be a raffle on the day in which one lucky customer will win the recently launched Fallen Fruits’ Dog Bench, worth £149.99 (above)! All proceeds raised by the raffle will be going to Greenfingers. The new display area will showcase one of the most comprehensive selections of Fallen Fruits garden giftware items in the country and product ranges will be categorised accordingly to subtle themes. This dedicated space has been designed to make the consumer feel at home, while providing the retailer with a well-managed and profitable concept. Some of the company’s most popular product ranges will be featured, including the new Farmer’s Pride collection of Grow Your Own accessories and the striking Tractor Table and matching Tractor Seats, along with a host of stylish gifts for the home and garden. Fallen Fruits Managing director, Michael Hall commented, “We are delighted to be invited into Van Hage’s flagship garden centre and are confident that our creatively merchandised display will result in an increase in customer interest, customer interaction and consequently sales.” For more information, contact Fallen Fruits on 01584 873377 or by emailing sales@fallenfruits.co.uk.
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High resolution images for Garden Re-Leaf Day
Participating garden centres are being encouraged to garner maximum exposure for the industry’s main fundraising day in the mainstream media by capturing high resolution, print quality images...
With Greenfingers Garden Re-Leaf Day taking place across the UK tomorrow and over the weekend, participating garden centres are being encouraged to garner maximum exposure for the industry’s main fundraising day in the mainstream media by capturing high resolution, print quality images. As a charity, Greenfingers rely on Garden Re-Leaf Day to raise most of the funds it needs for creating gardens for children’s hospices, and with 15 promised this year, the success of the event is of even greater importance. In the past, hundreds of fun, creative and awe-inspiring events have been held in support of the charity – but more can easily be done, say organisers, to get Garden Re-Leaf to a wider audience. Last year, three garden centres - Littleheath, Willowbrook and The Old Railway Line collaborated with Greenfingers by submitting their Garden Re-Leaf Day photos – which were each taken on a digital SLR camera. These high resolution images were then distributed to national press and used in promotional literature and posters creating valuable publicity opportunities for both the event and the garden centres involved.
 What is a high resolution image?
If you’re looking to get coverage in any type of printed publication, it doesn’t matter how good your image looks in terms of composition – it’s the size of the image that matters most. How can I tell if my image is high resolution or not? There are two ways of ensuring your image is large enough to use in print. One is to check to see if the image has a high enough resolution – 300 pixels/inch being the industry standard. On PC’s, simply right click the image file, select ‘open with…’ and choose ‘Paint’. Once in Paint, click on the File menu bar and select properties. You should then see horizontal and vertical resolution. On Macs, it’s even easier, double click the image to open in Preview and then choose ‘show inspector’ from the ‘tools’ menu. An even easier way is to check the size of your image file in terms of megabytes – generally, JPEG images between 1MB and 6MB are ideal for use in newspapers and magazines.
Hornby Whitefoot PR’s Robbie Cumming is fundraising for Greenfingers, along with over 40 others from the garden industry, as part of the Great Garden Re-Leaf Walk – as well as managing the PR and Social Media output for Garden Re-Leaf Day itself. “The immediacy of social media, and the convenience of smart phones is great for spreading the word online – but we mustn’t forget the power of traditional print media. We have the contacts, we have publications on board, all we need now are budding and experienced photographers alike to to get involved in creating high resolution images that we can use to get Greenfingers Garden Re-Leaf Day, its participants, and the industry as a whole in front of millions of people.” Find out more For up-to-date event listings information, go to www.gardenreleaf.co.uk and search via the navigation bar at the top. Use the ‘register an event’ form on the website or email Sarah@greenfingerscharity.org.uk or Linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk if you have yet to sign up for Garden Re-Leaf Day.
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The former Crowders Garden Centre has been given a new name, following voting by 2,000 members of the local community.
Members of the Crowders Garden Centre team, alongside key local figures and members of the Horncastle community, gathered this morning (March 16) for the official unveiling of Centre’s new name: Wolds View.
Mayor Coun Angela Birchall revealed the Centre’s new sign, with help from Frank Hayes, Wyevale Garden Centre Commercial Director and Ken Dawson, Garden Centre Manager.
The new name was sought from the community following its acquisition by Wyevale Garden Centres in January, with three shortlisted options - Wolds View, Banovallum, and Horncastle - put to the public vote.
Coun Birchall said: “It was fantastic to be a part of the unveiling of Wolds View, a Wyevale Garden Centre, today.
“The initiative is a leading example of community spirit that is ever-present in Horncastle. It is clear from the number of people present today and the buzz around the voting that the Centre is a pillar of the community, and I know the Centre team will continue to foster this.”
Ken Dawson, Garden Centre Manager at Wolds View, said that close to 2,000 people cast a vote, which shows how important the Centre is in their local community. “We are so pleased to share our new name, Wolds View with the community today, the number of voters confirms the special place our Centre has in Horncastle and beyond. It was fantastic to see everyone get behind the initiative and we’re very happy with the result – a name that we believe strongly reflects our community surroundings.
“We hope to see everyone at Wolds View this weekend to check out the ‘view’ for themselves and enjoy free, family fun to celebrate – our way of saying thank you for your support.”
Simon Nagle, a long serving member of staff at Crowders Garden Centre, said: “Not only am I happy my suggestion won the community’s vote, but along with my colleagues, I’m very proud to have played a part in shaping the future of our Centre through the renaming.”
Wyevale Garden Centres also presented a cheque for £500 to local voluntary emergency services charity Lincolnshire Integrated Voluntary Emergency Service (LIVES), in recognition of the community’s support for the renaming initiative.
LIVES Marketing Manager Steve Hyde says: “Thanks to Wolds View, a Wyevale Garden Centre, LIVES volunteers can continue to dedicate their time to the community with this generous donation – thank you for the support and making us a part of your special day.”
Crowders Garden Centre has for many years supported LIVES, and Wolds View is delighted to continue to support the local initiative.
To continue to shape Wolds View’s new identity, the Centre is challenging schools in the region to design a fourth flag that will join the existing three flying at the Centre’s entrance. The winning design will best portray Wolds View and will become a key part of the Centre’s image.
Entries close on Friday April 22, when the designs will be judged and the winner announced shortly after.
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Chelsea industry garden designs revealed
The designs for The Sun Flower Square, the industry garden led by Peter Seabrook have been unveiled. The floral exhibit in the Grand Pavilion features four model garden displays, each 4m x 4m square, the same size as the average front garden in Britain and based on the successful gardening campaign ‘Love the Plot You’ve Got’.
The designs for The Sun Flower Square, the industry garden led by Peter Seabrook have been unveiled.
The floral exhibit in the Grand Pavilion features four model garden displays, each 4m x 4m square, the same size as the average front garden in Britain and based on the successful gardening campaign ‘Love the Plot You’ve Got’. At the time of writing, 70 different companies are contributing to what will be the first cross industry exhibit at RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
Room Outside
Lovania have designed a stunning outdoor space which brings the ‘Room Outside’. The central feature in the garden is a dining table with an alpine centre piece complete with place settings consisting of garden trowels and forks for cutlery.
The Children’s Corner of the garden will consist of brightly coloured planted blocks, fairy gardens and a water feature. The garden will also feature a green roof planted with alpines and trailing plants, a Living Wall using heuchera and herbaceous plants and some planted pallet furniture. Members of the Horticultural Trades Association contributing to this garden include Nursery Fresh, Ball Colegrave, Butters Group, Allensmore Nurseries, Skylark Nurseries, Seiont Nurseries, Wyevale Nurseries and Cramden Nurseries amongst others. There will also be a large number of new plants introduced on this garden especially for the show.
Golden Jubilee Hanging Basket Garden
Members of the Garden Centre Association, who are celebrating their Golden Jubilee this year, will present a hanging garden with a massed display of hanging baskets hanging from pergolas above ground filling patio pots holding some of the baskets. The effect will be to fill the cube of space with colour, achieved by featuring popular summer bedding flowers and foliage available to home owners in May.
Garden centres that are contributing include Squire’s, Coolings, Perrywood, Cowell’s, Van Hage, Gordale, Old Railway Line, Sunshine, Ruxley Manor, Millbrook, Brookhouse (Barton Grange), Alton, Thurrock, Wembley, Aylett’s and Meadow Croft. Pots are kindly being provided by Apta and some baskets being donated by Desch Plantpak Ltd.
The Seed Garden
Major seed brands come together to present a living catalogue of the flowers, fruits and vegetables they offer as both seeds and young plants. All the plant material will be container grown and will be shown in a front garden setting so visitors can see how simple it is to brighten up an outdoor urban space.
Brands that have signed up to display include Dobies, DT Brown, E. W, King, Johnsons, Marshalls, Mr Fothergill’s, Robinsons, Suttons, Thompson & Morgan, Unwins, Van Meuwen Woolmans,
A number of 2016 Novelties are being grown including the Bidens Bee Dance, Buddleija Buzz, Marigold ‘Strawberry Blonde’, Petunia ‘Tumbelina Anna’, Raspberry ‘Ruby Beauty’, Runner Bean 'Firestorm', Sweet Pea "Eleanore Udall"and Tomato Montello.
The Rising Stars Grow your Own Exhibit
Supported by Westland Horticulture and their Rising Stars scheme, home grown is the theme of this garden. Assisted by schools and colleges, this garden will demonstrate the wide range of crops which can be produced where there is no available soil. Plants will be grown on the backing wall in hanging baskets, satchels, school desks and patio pots.
The focal point for the garden will be an InstaPlant Living Wall to commemorate the Queen’s 90th Birthday, a ruler inspired footpath and a colouring pencil fence.
Writtle College will be showcasing their new Osteospermum ‘Little Writtle’ whilst Thompson & Morgan are delivering plantlets of Gerbera Sweet Series (from Florist) and Tree lily bulbs for schools to grow.
Pinetops Nurseries are working with school children to grow their new face up, bicolored Asiatic lily and Hills Nurseries are doing the same with Chrysanthemum Princess Charlotte.
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Somerset folk are being encouraged to help raise money for the children’s charity Greenfingers by entering a Garden Re-Leaf Day raffle this month at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre.
Linda Petrons, Head of Fundraising at Greenfingers, said: “We are thrilled that the garden centre is supporting Garden Re-Leaf Day and hope that customers will flock to it to support their raffle.
“The money raised really will make a huge difference and will help us continue creating magical and therapeutic gardens for children who spend time in hospices around the UK and their families.”
Garden Re-Leaf Day takes place on Friday, March 18 but activities can take place throughout the week in aid of Greenfingers.
Andrew Pitman, Store Manager at the award-winning, independent, family-run garden centre, said: “Garden Re-Leaf Day is a fantastic initiative to mark the start of the spring gardening season. As members of the Garden Centre Association (GCA) we are encouraged to get involved as one of the main aims of the day is to raise money for Greenfingers so we are thrilled to be the hosts of this raffle.
“Raffle tickets, which cost £1, are available to purchase from us now and the winners will be drawn on Saturday, March 19. The winning tickets will be on display in-store and people who have entered will be encouraged to return to the store and see what they have won.”
“There are £1,500 worth of prizes for the winners to choose from, including an Alexander Rose garden bench worth £175 and a nest of oak tables worth £245 as well as crates of seeds, gardening tools and Sunday lunch or afternoon tea in our restaurant.”
Pictured: Laura Holmes, Till Operator at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre with some of the raffle prizes.
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Due to the strong growth in Glee, an opportunity has arisen for an exceptional New Business Manager to win completely new business on the UK’s leading garden retail event.
The role focus is on achieving new business growth for Glee, across a range of categories, as well as commercial objectives agreed with the Event Director. These include:- Hitting and exceeding the new business revenue target
- Delivering new revenue streams
- Increasing average order value and customer growth year on year
- Delivering on set KPIs and agreed measurable targets
- Increasing conversion rate customer retention and activity to deliver expected new business revenue
Rigorous sales planning ability and exceptional customer skills are vital alongside ‘hunter’ mentality to win the sale and a dogged determination to unearth new business opportunities. Experience required: - 2-3 years sales experience, preferably in an exhibition sales role
- Effective sales planning skills
- Proven new business hunter skills and target-driven approach
- Evident of developing impressive new business from scratch
- Strong understanding of effective pipeline management
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Customer focus
- Current clean driving license
Email your CV to: jobs@i2ieventsgroup.com (Reference No. i2i – 220)
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Junior Buyer: Garden Care
We have an exciting opportunity to join the Notcutts team as a Junior Buyer for the Gardening category covering all things gardening except Plants at our offices in Woodbridge, Suffolk.
Notcutts has a rich history in horticulture with 18 Notcutts Garden Centres across the UK has its own character and we are currently investing heavily in developing our sites further.
The Junior Buyer will take responsibility for selecting and developing the Gardening ranges for our business.
- The ideal candidate will understand both the category and customers, possess strong communication and negotiation skills and have a passion and enthusiasm for customers and products.
- They should an excellent team player focused on driving sales and profitability.
You can expect a competitive salary plus benefits including pension contributions and a generous company discount.
If you are interested in applying for this role, please forward an up to date CV and covering letter to: recruitment@notcutts.co.uk.
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An exciting opportunity exists for an enthusiastic team player to join Bristol’s Largest Independent Garden Centre as our Shop Assistant Manager.
The Ideal Candidate will possess excellent people management skills, Great Communication Skills and be able to lead and organise your team whilst maintaining excellent customer service sales and service.
The role requires an outstanding merchandiser standards and have a proven track record in motivating teams to exceptional achievements.
In return, we provide a competitive salary, a friendly working environment, staff discount scheme, subsidised social events and a benefits package commensurate with a progressive company.
To apply, please download the application form by clicking here and submit the completed form to info@almondsbury.co.uk.
Please include your current CV and a covering letter explaining why you would be an excellent recruit for this role, including examples of how you could be an asset to our business.
For more information, please email info@almondsbury.co.uk
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National Sales Manager Amenity and Landscaping Sector (ref:DS8170)
Location: South West England
Salary: Excellent
Date: 04 Mar
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
Our client is the world's leading biochar company, promoting the responsible production and use of biochar products. Biochar is a form of charcoal used for horticulture. Biochar improves the physical and biological dynamics of the soil and is proven to deliver increased productivity, health and vigour in plants, trees and shrubs. Our client produces a range of branded biochar-based blends for commercial horticulture, tree care specialists and hobby gardeners. They are currently seeing a dynamic individual to cover national sales of their products through to the Landscape, Amenity and Tree Care Sector.
The Role
The company has established a solid customer base in its core markets and is now looking for an individual who can support and grow the sales effort, increasing company turnover and profit margin. The role is accountable to the CEO and Commercial Development Manager who will support, guide and work alongside to advise and meet the company's objectives and strategic priorities.
The role will involve the following:
- Relationship building with sales prospects and influencers in target markets.
- Increase sales to existing customer base.
- Identify and secure new customers in the target market.
- Set up and manage network of distributors in target markets.
- Research and identify new sales and market opportunities.
- Present the company and its products face-to-face at trade shows and sales presentations.
- Negotiating terms of agreement and closing sales.
- Active participation in the development of company sales strategy.
The Candidate
- The candidate will have a positive 'can do' attitude.
- An inquisitiveness to learn and be challenged.
- A warm personality and sense of humour.
- Willingness to work hard and beyond the remit when necessary.
- A grasp of 'green' principles and understanding of the importance of sustainability.
- A proven track record in taking new products to market.
The successful candidate will have autonomy to ensure the sales objectives are met, so will need to be a self-starter, driven to build customer acquisition. They will also contribute to the creation of annual strategic sales plans and supply regular detailed feedback and analysis to inform future planning direction. A proven track record that demonstrates understanding of the sales process from prospect identification to close of sale.
This role demands an ability to think strategically, combined with the ability to multi task. A thoroughly organised individual who can tactically deliver and implement is essential.
Having a sound grasp of what makes this company 'special' and believing in the principles of organic production are essential.
Location: Based in central Bristol (BS1) but required to travel across the UK and Europe for meetings.
Salary and terms: £tbc + commission or performance-based bonus. 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays. Company mobile phone and laptop provided.
To apply for this role click here
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Plant Area Manager (Full time, including alternate weekends) West Horsley KT24 6AR Squire’s is a family owned group of 15 garden centre’s based in Surrey, Sussex, Middlesex and Berkshire. We are committed to growing our business and to promoting the highest standards in horticultural retailing. We want our staff to enjoy working with us in a friendly, energetic customer focused environment. West Horsley, a traditional GCA garden centre and nursery with a strong horticultural background set deep in the beautiful Surrey countryside between Guildford and Leatherhead. An enthusiastic team who know their customers as well as their subject and who strive to make the centre a hub of the local community. An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our garden centre at West Horsley.
- You will be responsible for managing the outdoor plant department which has an extensive and well stocked plant area.
- You must have experience and/or horticultural qualifications and garden centre retail experience.
- You will be able to manage your department to achieve sales and profit targets whilst motivating your team to maximise all sales opportunities and inspiring them to offer the highest standards of customer service.
- You must have the ability to thrive in a fast paced environment, have a passion for plants, be highly motivated, commercially aware and able to create dynamic, inspirational displays.
Free parking on site.
To apply, please visit our website www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk
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Garden Centre Assistant Manager (ref:DS8156)
Location: East Sussex
Salary: £18,000 - £21,000
Date: 02 Mar
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
Our client is a lovely family run plant and garden centre with great café and farm shop who are based near Brighton. They are currently looking for an Assistant Manager.
The Role
As Assistant Manager you will be responsible for the centre in the absence of the Manager and Owners. This is a hands on role within a close team and offers great potential for someone who is driven and keen to develop their retail career.
The Candidate
The candidate will have great retail background who ideally has an interest or some horticultural experience. The role would suit someone from a garden centre, DIY or supermarket background who is looking to further their career and take a step towards Garden Centre Management in the future.
To apply for this role click here
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Bedding Department Head (Full time, including alternate weekends) West Horsley KT24 6AR Squire’s is a family owned group of 15 garden centre’s based in Surrey, Sussex, Middlesex and Berkshire. We are committed to growing our business and to promoting the highest standards in horticultural retailing. We want our staff to enjoy working with us in a friendly, energetic customer focused environment. West Horsley, a traditional GCA garden centre and nursery with a strong horticultural background set deep in the beautiful Surrey countryside between Guildford and Leatherhead. An enthusiastic team who know their customers as well as their subject and who strive to make the centre a hub of the local community. An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our forward-thinking family-owned company, which is committed to our staff, growing our business and setting high standards.
- You will be responsible for the bedding plant department at our West Horsley Garden Centre which has an extensive and well stocked plant area.
- You will have extensive knowledge and experience of working in a retail bedding department and/or a horticultural qualification.
- A passion for customer service and the ability to thrive in a fast paced environment are essential.
- You will be flexible, enthusiastic and highly motivated, commercially aware and have the ability to create dynamic displays.
Free parking on site.
To apply, please visit our website www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk
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Grounds Maintenance Team Leader / Supervisor (ref:DS7832)
Location: Cheshire
Salary: £16,000 - £18,000 - dependent on experience
Date: 11 Mar
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
Our client is a leading Grounds Maintenance Company based in East Anglia who carry out a wide range of commercial contracts throughout the UK. They are currently seeking to recruit a Grounds Maintenance Team Leader / Supervisor for their Cheshire Contract.
The Role
Reporting to the Contracts Manager, the ideal candidate will currently be employed in a similar role in the grounds maintenance sector and have great team and supervisory management experience.
- Be able to deliver the level of grounds care demanded by the client within the strict deadlines and budgets of the contract.
- Liaise with clients when needed.
- Be aware of health & safety and quality procedures on site.
- Supervision of Teams
The Candidate
The successful candidate should hold a relevant horticultural or landscape qualification.
A full driving license is essential.They should also have good grounds maintenance or landscaping skills and be able to give superb customer service to clients.
Ideal candidate should be based in the Nantwich Area.
Salary range: £16,000 -£18,000 - dependent on experience
To apply for this role click here
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Plant Area Sales Assistant (Full time, including alternate weekends) Twickenham TW2 5PA Squire’s is a family owned group of 15 garden centre’s based in Surrey, Sussex, Middlesex and Berkshire. We are committed to growing our business and to promoting the highest standards in horticultural retailing. We want our staff to enjoy working with us in a friendly, energetic customer focused environment. Squire’s oldest site with a new centre built in 1993, and is about to undergo a significant facelift. A garden centre that takes a very high turnover for its size, with a strong horticultural focus in plants and sundries, often winning GCA category awards, with the recent addition of new Pets & Aquatics and Craft areas. We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated individual who is quick and willing to learn and who sees customer service as their main priority. - The ideal candidate will be self-motivated and energetic, have a passion for plants and an eye for creating exciting detailed displays.
- Horticultural experience or equivalent qualifications desirable.
- The role will involve bending and lifting some heavy items therefore applicants must be physically fit.
Free parking on site.
To apply, please visit our website www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk
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Area Sales Manager / Garden Centre & DIY (ref:DS8169)
Location: Yorkshire and the Humber
Salary: Attractive
Date: 11 Mar
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
Our client is a small but growing provider of wild bird care products supplying the retail, pet and garden centre sectors in the UK Market. Working with recognised high street names and offering a nationally respected and recognised brand name.
The Role
The role will be split between managing existing national retail customers and working with the existing management team to identify and secure new business in line with business strategy. The role is home-based but will involve national travel for several days each month. The position will be offered with an attractive salary, pension, car allowance, laptop, mobile phone and profit share scheme. This role provides an exceptional opportunity to the right individual to help shape a growing company and benefit from that growth through career progression.
The Candidate
The successful candidate will be a self-motivated Account Manager with a proven track record in B2B sales or account management with national retail accounts and will work to grow sales by winning new business and developing strong relationships with new and existing retail customers. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential as is the ability to work unsupervised. A self-starter with the passion to persuade retail buyers with a compelling offer and balance sales growth with customer retention.
To apply for this role click here
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Lighting shines brightly for garden product sales
Volumes for the GTN Bestsellers Garden Products chart are down on the previous week and they are also lagging behind the same period for the past two years (-4.1% in 2015 and -27.4% in 2014). The bright spot is garden lighting with several products making their mark...
Volumes for the GTN Bestsellers Garden Products chart are down on the previous week and they are also lagging behind the same period for the past two years (-4.1% in 2015 and -27.4% in 2014). The bright spot is garden lighting with several products making their mark.
Here are the highlights of this week’s Garden Products chart:
- The highest climber is Smart Solar Orbis Light, jumping 35 places to No 6.
- Smart Solar Eureka! Lightbulb Lantern (pictured) is the highest new entry at No 25. The company’s Snowdrop Flower Light is another newcomer to the chart.
- The highest re-entry is Scheurich Solid Ivory Pot, 14cm, at No 8.
- Fito Drip Feeder for Orchids retains the top spot.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
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Veg-2-Gro sales are down on the same week of the previous two years (-6.3% 2015 and -27.4% 2014) but there is a glimmer of hope with volumes being nearly 6% higher than the previous week.
This week’s Veg-2-Gro star performers are:
- 4Scotts Miracle-Gro Growables Cherry Tomato Seed Pot is the highest new entry at No 15 after catching the eye at Glee last September.
- Other new entries are Mr Fothergills Pea Ambassador and Thompson & Morgan Dwarf Bean Opera.
- Taylors onion sets dominate the top five places, and they also take the highest re-entry prize with the Karmen variety.
- The highest climber goes to Taylors Shallots Yellow Moon, climbing 33 places to No 12.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
Growing media sales witness a slow down
The fortunes of growing media sales saw a change on the previous week, being down by nearly 29%. But they were still ahead of the same week in the past two years, and organic products had a particularly good sales week...
The fortunes of growing media sales saw a change on the previous week, being down by nearly 29%. But they were still ahead of the same week in the past two years, and organic products had a particularly good sales week.
This week’s star performers include:
- GroWise Organic Garden Compost (50 litres) was the highest new entry at No 14.
- A place higher was the highest climber, Scotts Levington Organic Gro-bag, moving up 18 places to No 13.
- The highest re-entry was Westland John Innes Seed (30 litres) at No 24.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
Linked sales from Kent & Stowe to increase consumer spend
The marketing team at Kent & Stowe, who are well known for their innovative approach to creating new retail sales opportunities, have developed a programme to help garden centres increase consumer spend on Lawncare through linked promotions and displays...
 The marketing team at Kent & Stowe, who are well known for their innovative approach to creating new retail sales opportunities, have developed a programme to help garden centres increase consumer spend on Lawncare through linked promotions and displays.
Their hard hitting in-store product placement campaign to site essential lawn equipment alongside lawn seed, lawn food, moss killer etc will build consumer spend and enable gardeners to get their lawns into peak condition for the summer months ahead.
Kent & Stowe value-added lawn promotions also add impetus to the campaign which covers grass and border shears, swivel shears, lawn rakes and the brand new exclusive K&S lawn edge trimmer.
This new lawn edger has a high quality stainless steel blade which gives a clean and precise cut, trimming quickly and effortlessly.
The lightweight tool has an easy to use ‘Walk and Cut’ rocking technique which is ideal for edging lawns around patios, driveways, flower beds and borders.
These are not just run of the mill promotions but real and valuable linked sales backed by impactful POS and purpose designed display bins.
Full details are available from your Crest Garden sales contact. Visit www.crest-garden.com
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The funeral service of Phil Kimberley will take place at Redditch Crematorium at 11 am on March 17. Phill sadly died on March 1.
One of the characters of our industry, Phil had worked for Erin and ICI Garden Products, before joining Solus Garden & Leisure where he built strong
and lasting relationships with many accounts over the years.
Covering the Midlands, Wales and the West Country, he was totally committed to the companies he worked for, yet equally committed to helping his customers build their businesses too.
Knowing his products inside out and understanding the garden trade, Phil was renowned for building sales for his retail customers through promotions and deals that capitalised on potential business when trade was right.
Also a committed family man, Phil leaves wife Diana, daughter Sharlene and son Craig along with four grandchildren. Many of Phils' customers knew of his
enjoyment of food, especially cake, and at weekends he could often be found supporting his favourite football team Birmingham City.
Phil and his wife had recently discovered the joys of cruises following his retirement after a short spell working for Stax Birmingham, helping build their garden products wholesale operation.
Redditch Crematorium is on Bordesley Lane, Redditch, B97 6RR.
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Kelkay has launched new pumps and lights to further enhance the company’s best selling water feature brands easyfountain and Henri.
Four new pumps, with capabilities of 450, 750, 1100 and 1500 litres per hour, are now available to power small and large water features. They’re easy to install, have an adjustable flow rate and an anti-clog foam free inlet. A 10-metre cable makes them highly versatile and will give consumers complete confidence and peace of mind.
Kelkay’s new range of water feature lights includes three kits all low voltage, easy to install with 20,000 hours usage. Each kit includes either 2, 3 or 4 led light strings each with a 4 led ring per string. Also included in the kit is a weather proof transformer and 10mt cable.
The pump and light ranges are available to retailers on a stand deal including PoS.
Antony Harker, managing director of Kelkay, said: “Kelkay premium water features are highly regarded by retailers so we’re expanding the ranges with more essential accessories. The new lights will make any water feature the focal point of its surroundings, while the pumps will keep water clean and maintain its natural glisten.”
Kelkay ensures industry leading stock availability and delivery lead times, especially at peak periods. It offers a £500 carriage paid order service across the UK through its transport logistics department. This ensures customers receive their orders within three days - and in many instances, two.
Kelkay’s brand portfolio includes Borderstone®, Build Mate, easyfountain® and Henri®, providing retailers with a single source of supply for a wide range of garden products. These include aggregates, stone, water and garden features, paving, edging and walling, building materials, horticulture, growing media and winter garden products.
By promoting aggregates, paving and fountains with eye-catching point of sale, merchandising units and display stands, garden retailers have seen sales grow in these categories.
For more information visit www.kelkay.co.uk
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Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group, planted a tree in Woodlands Crescent as a gift to local residents during Poundbury Gardens’ 10-year anniversary celebrations.
The Alnus incana Aurea, which is more commonly known as a Golden Alder, was a particular favourite of Mike’s father, David Burks, who was a regular visitor to both the garden centre and the neighbouring park during its early years.
Professor David Leaper, chairman of the Poundbury Residents Association, explains: “The Golden Alder has always meant something special to me, so I am very thankful to Mike and Lucy for planting one in this communal space for everyone who lives in or visits Poundbury to enjoy.”
Lucy Simpson, manager of Poundbury Gardens, adds: “We couldn’t have reached this great milestone without the support of the Poundbury Residents Association or the local community, so we wanted to say a huge thank you and plant this commemorative tree as a token of our appreciation. We look forward to watching the tree grow, as the community of Poundbury continues to flourish.”
Pictured (from left to right): Kelvin Henwood, Gold Club member, Professor David Leaper, chairman of the Poundbury Residents Association, Lucy Simpson, manager of Poundbury Gardens, and Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group.
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Following the success of last year’s competition, ‘Pimp Up Your Roundup’ is back for the third year running.
Roundup is challenging independent retailers to get their creative juices flowing when it comes to their displays this season.
The 2016 promotion, will see the UK’s number one weedkiller brand give away over £6000* worth of stock to independent retailers. In addition Roundup is also giving away £200 worth of high street vouchers for each winning retailer team that go the extra mile to create the most inventive and eye-catching Roundup displays.
The promotion is running from the beginning of March until the end of May. To enter retailers simply need to take a photo of their pimped-up Roundup display and email the photo to pimpuproundup@roundup-garden.com. At the end of each month two independent retailers will be chosen based on their display photo, giving six winners in total.
The prizes will vary by month but will include two Roundup Gel 150ml x 140 units, two Roundup Pump N Go Mini 2.5L x 64 units and two Roundup Ready to use 1L x 116 units, as well as £200 worth of high street vouchers for each winning retailer team.
Gary Philpotts, Roundup Lawn and Garden UK business director comments, “Retailers have embraced the ‘Pimp Up Your Roundup’ promotion over the past two years and we have been really impressed by the standard of entries, which is one of the reasons why we’ve decided to bring it back for the third year in a row.
“This year we’re also giving the retail staff the chance to win £200 worth of high street vouchers for their creative efforts. The promotion will overlap with Roundup’s consumer marketing activity, which includes an impressive TV advertising campaign, print, PR and social media campaigns, all designed to help drive customers in store. There has never been a better time to create an eye catching Roundup display!”
To find out more about the ‘Pimp Up Your Roundup’ promotion and to read the terms and conditions, visit www.roundup-garden.com/pimpup or call 01483 410334.
*at suggested retail value
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Pictures from The Greatest Christmas Gold-winning Teams
Garden centre teams excelled with their Christmas displays in 2015. Click on any of the gold-winning teams (below) to see a gallery of pictures from each centre. The galleries are sponsored by Kaemingk...
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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 printed newsletter.
As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2014 as well as 2015 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period. Access is by subscription only. For £145.00 per year you and your team can have access to the most up-to-date gardening sales analysis that has already helped many UK garden centres increase their sales. To subscribe call 01733 775700, e-mail karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.
Highlights of the GTN Garden Products Bestsellers chart for this week are here
Highlights of the GTN Veg-2-Gro Products Bestsellers chart for this week are here
Highlights of the GTN Growing Media Bestsellers chart for this week are here WARNING the GTN Bestsellers Charts seriously improve the business of our subscribers. Invest 15 minutes each week in improving your sales using the GTN Bestsellers charts and your turnover and customer satisfaction will improve too.
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Get the GTN Bestsellers charts in full every week in the GTN Bestsellers newsletters delivered via the post for only £145.00.
GTN Bestsellers is the only industry source of weekly garden centre sales information, collating Epos data from centres with an aggregate turnover in excess of £120m.
Use the weekly Garden Products and Growing Media Top 50 sales volumes charts to plan your hotspot and other promotions and ensure you have the right products in stock to satisfy the needs of your customers.
For further information contact karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or call 01733 775700.
Buy your subscription today and start receiveing the GTN Bestsellers charts this week.
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All the latest news from the world of garden centre catering
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Tea and coffee equipment and product supplier Café Works is offering garden centres without cafés the chance to be involved in the charity Greenfingers’ Garden Re-leaf Day.
The Shropshire-based provider of single serve coffee options, tea and coffee equipment and vending solutions is able to loan equipment for fundraising pop-up events taking place on March 18.
Café Works’ boss, Jacques Farmer, explained: “We’re keen to support Greenfingers and Garden Re-leaf Day and one way we can do this is to offer garden centres without cafés the chance to have some of our equipment on a first come, first served basis to host a coffee morning or a tea party in aid of the charity.
“We’re happy for garden centres to have one of our fully automatic Bean to Cup machines and to sell the coffee to raise funds for Greenfingers. The sooner interested parties get in touch the better as of course the loan is subject to equipment and staff availability and we expect this will be a popular idea as it is such a wonderful cause.”
Greenfingers is a national charity dedicated to supporting the children and their families who use hospices around the UK by creating inspiring gardens for them to relax in and enjoy.
Jacques, who is licensed to work in tea and coffee services by the Academy of Food and Wine Service, added: “It’s a tremendous charity that creates magical spaces for children to enjoy with their families and friends. They are spaces for fun and play as well as for therapeutic rest and relaxation.”
Anyone interested in Café Works’ pop-up coffee morning or tea party offer in aid of Greenfingers on Garden Re-leaf Day, should contact the company soon on 01952 291026.
Jacques concluded: “Café Works is ‘more than just tea and coffee’. We do everything from offering sound advice to selling great equipment and products, and have innovative ideas to help our clients solve the various problems they might have, along with providing other bits and pieces for home, restaurants and coffee shops.
“We are also working with an established designer to tailor our equipment and products to suit, for example, farm shops needing coffee to go and restaurants needing something more sophisticated. We also help small businesses needing equipment to help save staff time in-house when making that all important, inspirational and thirst-quenching cuppa for the team!”
For further details, please call Café Works, which is based in Priorslee, Telford, on 01952 291026 or visit www.cafe-works.co.uk.
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