Blue Diamond have been confirmed as the new leaseholder of Dobbies Aylesbury which, it was disclosed earlier this week, will be closing on March 2^nd.

The Aylesbury garden centre, previously known as Worlds End Garden Centre was set up by Jim and Len Bone in the early 1970’s and was so successful that it was sold several times for multi-million pound deals.  Those included to The Garden Centre Group (Wyevale) in 1993 and latterly to Dobbies in 2019 when the asking price from Wyevale was £13 million.

GTN Xtra understands Blue Diamond will take over the site by Monday 10^th March at the latest with all of the staff being retained.  Alan Roper, Blue Diamond Managing Director told GTN Xtra that a full Blue Diamond re-fit will happen in due course.

New for 2025: British garden manufacturer Handy has announced the arrival of its new catalogue and Monthly Dealer Promotions Calendar, both designed to provide retailers with valuable increased margins on a wide range of gardening and home products and ensure they have everything needed for the season ahead. 

The new Dealer Promotions Calendar demonstrates Handy’s ongoing commitment to providing retailers with competitively priced products.  Offering fully funded monthly promotions with improved margins and discounts, retailers can benefit from cost savings across a wide selection of gardening and home products from its ownedbrands such as Webb, The Handy and Greenworks Tools. 

To further support retailers, the new 2025 catalogue from Handy highlights the top brands and prices for the 2025 season, such as its new range of wheelbarrows, shrub shears, impact shredder, electric start lawnmower and tool only Webb Eco. 

Stocking leading brands from: 

• Webb 
• The Handy 
• Greenworks 
• Q Garden 
• AVA 
• Karcher 
• Flymo 
• Solo 
• Handy Parts 

To find out about trade prices and to place an order or to view the new Handy catalogue, visit www.handys.co.uk 

Experienced field sales professional and account manager within the gift industry with extensive contacts within the garden centre sector is now seeking a new role or established agency opportunities.

With a background of making sales, new business development and providing great customer service, I am now seeking a new role where I can bring my expertise, skills and experience to a new challenge. (East of England based).

Please email: marketonesalesandmarketing@gmail.com

New for 2025, is the Webb Classic WER510ES Self-Propelled 51cm Petrol Electric Start Lawn Mower, with 20V Webb Eco electric start system, for a convenient and high performance gardening experience.

Powered by a robust 173cc Webb DVO173 engine, the new Webb Classic Self-Propelled Electric Start Petrol Lawn Mower delivers exceptional performance and makes quick work of the toughest of terrain.  Designed for large sized gardens, the latest addition to the popular Webb Classic range features a wide 51cm cutting width that allows more ground to be covered in less time.  Furthermore, the 20V Webb Eco electric start system ensures hassle-free ignition and eliminates the need to endure strenuous manual startups.  

For added convenience, the new Webb Classic Self-Propelled Electric Start Petrol Lawn Mower comes with seven adjustable cutting heights, ranging from 25mm to 75mm, that can be easily adjusted by one single lever.  Clippings are collected in a large 65-litre grass collection bag or can be discharged to the side, rear, or mulched into fine pieces for lawn nutrition. 

The new Webb Classic Self-Propelled Electric Start Petrol Lawn Mower is the latest addition to the Webb lawnmower range which includes the highly affordable, yet feature-rich Gardeners’ World magazine Best Buy Classic 1300w electric rotary lawnmower through to the premium 21″ Alloy Deck Disc Bladed Self Propelled Petrol Rotary Lawnmower. All are covered by a three-year warranty, and are available with a full range of spares, including blades and collection bags, which are held in stock.  

To discover more on the Webb range and to purchase direct at trade pricing, please go to webbgardenpower.co.uk

Apprenticeships are a great way to attract new talent to any industry. The combination of hands-on experience and classroom learning helps individuals understand what it takes for a business to succeed. 

Many businesses consider apprentices a key part of their recruitment strategy as they provide an avenue for attracting interested workers and offer development opportunities to those already working in the team.

The Environmental Horticulture Group recently reported that the sector supports 722,000 jobs and contributed £38 billion to the UK economy in 2023. However, the average percentage of the environmental horticulture workforce employed as apprentices in 2023/24 was only 3% for landscapers and 1% for retailers and growers. As a sector with a majority of SMEs, the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) seeks to remove any barriers to apprenticeship take-up and recognises the sector's current significant shortfall.

The HTA has welcomed the government’s commitment to reforming the apprenticeship levy and creating a flexible Growth and Skills Levy but asks that the needs of environmental horticulture and broader land-based sectors be considered when developing the policy details. It is vital that a wider cohort of businesses can access these funds, and that they genuinely work for the industry.

To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, the HTA asked its members about the benefits apprenticeship schemes have had on their businesses and their importance in ensuring the next generation in horticulture.

Jai Patel, Operations Manager, Tristram Plants/ The Farplants Group, said: “Apprenticeships play a vital role in developing the next generation of horticultural talent, bringing fresh ideas, energy, and a passion for the industry. We’ve seen first-hand how apprentices contribute to innovation and long-term growth, with over 40 apprentices joining us in the past six years through schemes like MDS and Pershore College. The blend of practical experience and structured learning helps equip apprentices with the skills needed to drive the future of our sector. Investing in apprenticeships isn’t just about workforce development – it’s about securing the future of horticulture.”

Karl O’Neill, Technical Production Manager, Bransford Webbs, added: “We have been running a successful apprenticeship program for many years, and we view our apprentices as vital to the future of the business.  With recruiting skilled horticultural staff becoming ever more challenging, our apprenticeship program has enabled us to fill many permanent vacancies over the years, with a good proportion of our current Team Leaders, Supervisors, and Managers being former apprentices."

The much-loved Garden Re-Leaf Sponsored Walk is now even more accessible, with the 10-mile route making a triumphant return to the South Walk. 

As excitement builds around the new-for-2025 25km route, the Greenfingers Charity recognises that a shorter option is still needed to ensure as many people as possible can take part in Garden Re-Leaf’s most popular fundraising event.

Taking place on Friday 21st March, the 10-mile South Walk is the perfect choice for individuals, businesses, and teams looking for a more manageable distance while still enjoying the camaraderie and spirit of the event. Whether walking solo or as part of a group, participants can expect a fantastic day of FUNdraising from start to finish. 

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communication at Greenfingers Charity, said: “We are thrilled to bring back the 10-mile route for the South Walk by popular demand! While many participants are excited to take on the new 25km challenge – 25km to celebrate our 25th anniversary! - we recognise that offering a shorter option makes the walk more accessible to a wider audience. Whether you choose the 10-mile or the 25km South Walk, every step taken helps us continue our vital work creating magical gardens for children in hospices. We can’t wait to welcome even more supporters this year!”

The South Walk is just one of three walks that will be taking place this Garden Re-Leaf Day. Those in the north can join the stunning North Walk which takes in Last of the Summer Wine country, whilst the all-new South-West Walk will see walkers taking in the famous landscapes of Dartmoor.

Register before 28th February to enter prize draw!

To make signing up even more rewarding, the Greenfingers Charity has introduced a new early-bird incentive for those that register before 28th February. Anyone who signs up by this date will be entered into a prize draw to win a fabulous mystery prize – details to be revealed very soon.

Let’s make this Garden Re-Leaf Day bloom!

Don’t miss out on this incredible day of fun, fitness, and fundraising. Sign up now at www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk/get-involved/garden-re-leaf-day-is-coming-soon and don’t forget to start planning your floral-themed outfit today as this year Garden Re-Leaf is going FLORAL! For more information, get in touch with the charity’s fundraising team at fundraising@greenfingerscharity.org.uk.

Please note, to help cover costs for medals, t-shirts, and other goodies, participants are asked to consider a £10 donation (or more!) on top of their fundraising efforts. For those who would like to lend a hand but can’t take part in the walk, the Greenfingers team would also love to hear from you about volunteering on the day.

Marketing manager Stuart Lowen is retiring from Ball Colegrave on 29 April after over 37 most enjoyable years with the company.

Stuart’s colleague Lisa Jeffs has taken on the role of Marketing and Product Coordinator. 

Lisa has until recently worked in our supply chain team and is no stranger to the marketing department, project managing our catalogues for a number of years and supported me on many other marketing projects and campaigns. Over the coming weeks I will be working closely with Lisa to handover my marketing responsibilities.

Stuart said: “As I move into this new chapter in my life, may I just take this opportunity to personally thank everyone for their incredible support over the years, it has been so much appreciated.”

British Garden Centres has announced its main charity support for 2025 – Greenfingers Charity which celebrates its 25th birthday this year.

Following on from a record-breaking fundraising year that saw the UK’s largest family-run group raise £30,000 for the charity, this year will see team members and customers from across the UK come together to support the vital work of Greenfingers in creating beautiful, therapeutic outdoor spaces for seriously ill children and their families at hospices across the UK.

Planned events for 2025 include all centres doing an event or fundraising for Garden ReLeaf Day on 21st March. Tring Garden Centre will host the Garden Re-Leaf South Walk and a British Garden Centres squad will also take on the North.

Employees from the UK’s largest family-run garden centre group showed strong support for Greenfingers last year with many FUNdraising initiatives on Garden Re-Leaf Day.  A special collaboration with Unwins saw the launch of Sweet Pea Butterfly Blue seeds, with a portion of proceeds donated to Greenfingers. Team members from Brigg and Wolseley Bridge Garden Centre also took on the challenge of climbing Snowdon, raising essential funds whilst taking on the challenging Welsh landscape, whilst a thrilling Dragonboat competition saw an exciting element of teamwork and competition, further underlining the commitment of employees to unite in support of Greenfingers' vital work.

James Ducker, Events Manager at British Garden Centres said: “Our team members across our company will be digging deep to find fun and creative ways to raise money for Greenfingers Charity this year. Greenfingers is a charity close to all our hearts as it aligns with British Garden Centres’ passion for gardening, improving wellbeing, and enhancing lives in local communities.”

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at Greenfingers Charity added: “Greenfingers is delighted to have been chosen as British Garden Centres’ charity of the year. The continued support of such a well-loved name in garden retail adds huge weight to our 25th anniversary year and our Silver Appeal. With a waiting list of children’s hospices that need our help, the funds raised through this partnership will help to significantly impact the lives of many children and families."

From 29 to 88 years old, three generations of the Squire family business have come together to celebrate the launch of Friends of Squire’s – the new loyalty programme of Squire’s Garden Centres.

Customers are now being invited to come and ‘join the family’ by downloading the new rewards app of the much-loved garden retailer.

The programme has been defined and shaped from Squire’s customer feedback and is designed to reward and thank customers for their continued support, with a nod to the company’s long established heritage with the strapline, ‘appreciating your loyal custom since 1936’. 

The easy-to-use rewards app unlocks a range of fantastic benefits, from personalised vouchers to exclusive offers, ensuring that every visit to Squire’s Garden Centres is even more special, including an exclusive welcome offer of 50% off any one plant.

Whether shopping for plants, picking up garden essentials or enjoying a relaxing hot drink in the Café Bar, members are encouraged to scan every time they shop, so offers can be tailored and based on their purchases. 

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres, comments: "As a long established business of almost 90 years, customer loyalty is very much valued and appreciated. We’ve introduced our Friends of Squire’s loyalty programme as a way of recognising this and giving back to our customers – it is our way of saying ‘thank you’.  Our simple, convenient app is packed with treats to surprise and delight, designed to make every visit to one of our centres even more enjoyable."

Friends of Squire’s is available to download in the Apple App Store or Google Play store.

Pictured above: Three generations of the Squire family proudly display the new ‘Friends of Squire’s’ app on their phones. Colin Squire – Chairman Emeritus (centre) with his daughter, Sarah Squire – Chairman (left) and                                 granddaughter, Felicia Baily – Squire’s Sustainability Lead (right). 

Above: Squire’s colleagues welcoming the arrival of the new ‘Friends of Squire’s’ rewards app.

Gardenex has revealed the latest success story emerging from its highly popular Meet the Buyer event held during Glee at the NEC Birmingham, UK last September. 

Empathy, the UK’s leading producer of biologically active gardening products and a proud Gardenex member, has secured a landmark partnership with Aveve, a premier gardening brand in Belgium comprising 200 stores. Aveve is a strong brand of Arvesta, a full-service provider in agri- and horticulture with activities in Belgium, Germany, France and The Netherlands. 

This collaboration blossomed just three months after the initial meeting facilitated by Gardenex at Glee. Aveve has joined Empathy’s prestigious white-label programme and is set to launch its own branded version of rootgrow mycorrhizal fungi - Empathy’s flagship product - tailored for the Flemish and French-speaking markets in time for the 2025 gardening season.

Empathy’s rootgrow mycorrhizal fungi is one of the few products of its kind that complies with the new EU fertiliser regulations, making it an attractive option for white-label partnerships across Europe for those companies seeking to promote the reduction of chemistry in gardening. 

The Aveve agreement follows hot on the heels of Empathy’s similar announcement regarding a white-label collaboration with ADEO, one of Europe’s largest retail groups. ADEO’s branded mycorrhizal fungi products, available in four languages, will roll out across 2,000 stores at the start of the 2025 season.

Empathy’s success at the Meet the Buyer event at Glee highlights the critical role Gardenex plays in connecting innovative UK brands with influential international buyers. “The Gardenex team provided us with a platform to build meaningful relationships that have transformed into lucrative business opportunities,” said Robert Patten MD of Empathy.

Empathy is now actively seeking new white-label partnerships across Europe and invites interested companies to connect with the company direct.

Southern Trident is continuing its partnership with the charity HighGround as it moves into its third year, supporting their invaluable work in helping service leavers, veterans, and reservists transition to a fulfilling life beyond the military in the land-based sector.

As part of this ongoing collaboration, our Harmony Gardens Multipurpose Compost is being used within HighGround’s initiatives, providing a sustainable and high-quality growing medium for their horticultural activities. HighGround plays a vital role in offering expert support, guidance, and advice to ex-military personnel, helping them explore career opportunities in farming, forestry, conservation, and other land-based industries.

Beyond career support, HighGround also delivers Horticultural Therapy to injured service personnel at DMRC Stanford Hall, aiding in rehabilitation and recovery through structured outdoor activities. The use of Harmony Gardens Multipurpose Compost ensures that their gardening and therapeutic programs benefit from an environmentally responsible and effective product, reinforcing our shared commitment to sustainability and positive social impact.

“We are delighted to support HighGround’s outstanding work in helping military personnel build meaningful futures in the land-based sector. Seeing our Harmony Gardens Multipurpose Compost contribute to both career development and rehabilitation initiatives is a testament to the power of horticulture in transforming lives,” said Steve Harper, CEO at Southern Trident.

This ongoing partnership reflects Southern Trident’s commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and supporting initiatives that make a real difference to people’s lives.

For more information about Southern Trident and our eco-friendly growing media solutions, visit www.southerntrident.com To learn more about HighGround’s work and how to support their mission, visit www.highground-uk.org

Gardening charity Garden Organic has formed a new alliance with Tamar Organics to encourage more gardeners to grow their own food in a sustainable way that protects the planet.

Cornish based Tamar Organics offers an extensive range of organic vegetable and flower seeds, including green manures, and onion, garlic and shallot sets. All its seeds are organic.

Both organisations believe sustainable gardening and growing practices sit at the centre of ending declining levels of biodiversity.

“Growing using organically produced seed is an important way of reducing your environmental impact at all stages of producing food,” says Fiona Taylor, chief executive of Garden Organic (pictured above).

“Research by our expert team has shown that every garden matters in the fight against biodiversity loss and climate change. We all have a part to play in tackling this crisis. By growing organic fruit and veg, and tending our gardens in an organic way, we can have an enormous impact that’s multiplied many times across the UK.

“We are delighted to partner with Tamar Organics as their guiding principles of protecting the environment are closely aligned with our own.”

The partnership means that Garden Organic members can now access Tamar Organic seeds at a 10% discount.

Cathy Guilfoy, managing director at Tamar Organics, said: “We source only the very best organic herb, vegetable and flower seeds, and we’re on a mission to encourage people to grow at least some of their own food and to do it organically. We’re therefore delighted to be partnering with Garden Organic to offer their environmentally conscious members our organic seed at a discount.

“Organic growing helps protect the environment, improves soil and encourages biodiversity. Using organic seeds means you’re supporting organic farmers and acres of land under organic management.”

This is the third organic collaboration announced by Garden Organic to benefit its members. It has already partnered with The Wildlife Community, to help halt the dangerous drop in the UK numbers of birds, insects and other wildlife. And also Evengreener, to offer compost bins and water butts.Garden Organic would be happy to speak to any other companies or organisations who follow its organic and sustainable gardening and environmental ethos, and who would like to work in partnership.

 To join Garden Organic, support its important work and receive 10% off organic seeds at Tamar sign up at: gardenorganic.org.uk/join

To find out more about Tamar Organics and purchase its organic seed visit: Tamar Organics

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GIMA's upcoming ‘Buyer Connect’ event will provide an exclusive opportunity for members to engage directly with the buying team from Blue Diamond.

Taking place on Wednesday, 2nd April 2025, at Melbicks Garden Centre, Coleshill, Birmingham, this event forms a key part of GIMA’s ongoing Buyer Connect series. Designed to provide value and foster business growth, these events bring together leading retailers and suppliers, facilitating meaningful connections that drive commercial success.

Blue Diamond’s roots date back to 1904, a landmark year in the industry when the company emerged as the Fruit Export Company in Guernsey, Channel Islands. Blue Diamond has grown into one of the UK’s most successful garden centre groups. Still owned and managed in Guernsey, the company maintains a strong focus on plants and horticulture while employing around 3,500 people across its Head Office and 47 garden centres in the UK and Channel Islands.

What to expect

This upcoming GIMA Buyer Connect event is primarily focused on 2026 product ranging opportunities. However, the Blue Diamond team will also be on the lookout for products suitable for trial or spot deals in 2025. Both stocked and dropship product ranges will be considered, making this an invaluable opportunity for suppliers looking to establish or grow their presence within Blue Diamond stores.

As part of GIMA’s wider Buyer Connect series, this event is one of many designed to facilitate strategic engagement between GIMA members and key retail buyers. By participating in Buyer Connect events, suppliers can maximise their market exposure and strengthen their relationships with top retailers, ensuring ongoing growth and opportunity.

Vicky Nuttall, GIMA Director, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for GIMA members to showcase their products and expertise to the Blue Diamond team. With a key focus on 2026 planning, there is also potential for immediate business in 2025. This event provides a unique platform for suppliers to establish valuable partnerships and expand their market presence. As part of our ongoing Buyer Connect series, we are committed to offering members access to key buyers, helping them to unlock new commercial opportunities and drive sustained business growth.”

How to get involved

GIMA members are encouraged to prepare for in-depth discussions on their product ranges and commercial strategies. With representatives from Blue Diamond’s category management team in attendance, the event promises productive dialogues and new business opportunities.

Each participating member will receive a 20-minute appointment, with the option to book additional sessions for multiple product categories. A maximum of two representatives per company may attend each appointment. This event is free for GIMA members, while non-members can participate for £180 + VAT. There are no additional fees for multiple meetings.

Interested members must complete an application form and submit it to info@gima.org.uk by Friday, 21st February 2025. Suppliers with multiple product ranges should submit separate applications for each category. All applications will be reviewed by Blue Diamond, and confirmed meeting times will be communicated by the GIMA team in due course.

Find out more

For further information and to register your interest, visit https://gima.org.uk/calendar-of-events/ or email the GIMA team directly via info@gima.org.uk

BHETA is collaborating with GIMA in adding a combined voice for family-owned manufacturing businesses to the outcry from the farming community and family-owned High Street businesses about the changes to Business Property Relief (BPR), announced in the Budget.  It is anticipated that this will be a first for 2025 in a series of combined initiatives.  

Commenting on the combined stance BHETA’s Chief Operating Officer, Will Jones said: “Family-run businesses account for 90% of private sector firms and employ 14 million people and the home improvement, garden, housewares, gift, and small domestic electricals businesses are all similarly threatened.  It’s vital all family businesses get together to lobby and sustain the campaign, including family-run businesses from our members’ customer base such as independent garden centres, DIY retailers, and cookshops. 

“Already we are seeing the Prime Minister announcing that he wants examples of businesses affected by IHT sent to his team directly, so BHETA is delighted to work with GIMA to make this happen.  BHETA is providing templates for central Government and local MP lobbying packs for supplier companies caught by the Government’s proposals, in support of the lead taken by FamilyBusiness UK (FBUK) and is sharing the initiative with GIMA members similarly affected.  It’s a great opportunity to write to the PM directly, and call for a review of the policy and a formal consultation.”

GIMA Director Vicky Nuttall added: “Each year, over 85,000 businesses transition ownership to the next generation (Source: FBUK) and to date, Business Property Relief (BPR) has been essential in enabling these companies to plan, giving owners the assurance to focus on growth. From a sample group of 200+ garden centres, over 50% are made up of independent family-owned businesses, many of whom now face significant financial uncertainty under these new IHT proposals. It makes total sense for GIMA and BHETA to get together on this and add their combined weight to the campaign for a Government review. Collaboration is key, and we are delighted to be working with BHETA.  We have several other joint initiatives planned for 2025, both lobbying and in retailer networking, so this should be a good year to demonstrate the potential of combined initiatives.”

Under the new IHT rules, a cap of £1 million will apply to the assets eligible for 100% inheritance tax (IHT) relief. Any value exceeding this threshold will only receive 50% relief. Business assets that were previously fully exempt under inheritance tax relief will now face an effective 20% tax when transferred to the next generation, threatening the financial security of family-owned UK manufacturers and producers in all sectors.

For more information on BHETA lobbying and legislative advice contact BHETA Member Services on 0121 237 1130 or via www.bheta.co.uk.

From 25 to 27 March 2025, the Parc Chanot in Marseille will be transformed into a veritable crossroads for innovation and trends in the world of gardening. 

At JdC Garden Trends, 380 exhibitors, including 1/2 from over 20 countries, and 1,200 buyers from the French retail sector will be converging for an exceptional event. 

Conferences led by industry experts provide an ideal framework for understanding emerging market trends, with contributions from Promojardin, NielsenIQ & GfK.

These presentations are backed up by market figures and analyses that give visitors a clear picture of how the industry is evolving. This helps professionals to make informed decisions and anticipate future changes. 

For 3 days, experts from the gardening market will be hosting conferences on developments and prospects in the sector.

The Horticultural Trades Association has announced an exciting new London venue for its annual conference Horticulture, The Conference set to take place on Thursday 25 September 2025. 

The industry will gather at the iconic Barbican Centre, in Silk Street, London for a day of insightful discussions, networking, and thought leadership.  

Horticulture, The Conference will culminate with the 2025 Grower of the Year Awards, to celebrate excellence and best practices in sustainable production within UK horticulture.

An exclusive dinner in the Barbican’s Garden Room will provide the perfect setting for continued discussions and networking, with its breathtaking views of the Barbican Lakeside and the city skyline. Guests will also enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the Barbican Conservatory, a hidden tropical haven in the heart of the city. Home to over 2,000 species of tropical plants and trees, as well as finches, quails, and exotic fish, the Conservatory provides a unique and inspiring setting for industry professionals to connect. 

Grower of the Year Awards 2025 – how to enter 

Entries are invited for the 2025 Grower of the Year Awards which are an integral part of the conference to celebrate outstanding contributions and innovation within UK horticulture. 

How to Enter 

For details on entry criteria and submission guidelines, please visit: https://hta.org.uk/goty 

Key awards entry dates:

• Entry Deadline: Friday, 25 July 2025
• Winners Announced: Thursday, 25 September 2025 at Horticulture, The Conference 

Secure your place at Horticulture, The Conference now 

HTA members can take advantage of an early bird booking rate by securing their place now at https://hta.org.uk/conference 

Entries to the prestigious AIPH World Green City Awards 2026 are now open. Initiated by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) and supported by its network of Green City Partners, the Awards champion ambitious nature-orientated approaches to city design and operation. 

During the AIPH Spring Meeting in Chiang Rai, Thailand, AIPH opened entries for the third edition of the AIPH World Green City Awards - the only global awards for cities where plants and nature are the core focus. The Awards recognise and celebrate bold and innovative action that harnesses the power of plants and nature to create greener, healthier, and more resilient cities.

“Today, more than ever, we are faced with an epic challenge: ensuring that our cities remain liveable and resilient in the face of climate change and growing urbanisation,” says AIPH President Leonardo Capitanio. “As climate change predictions become reality, it is clear that plants will be among the most valuable resources we have to keep our cities comfortable. We must recognise the importance of plants and trees and their ability to adapt to stress in order to ensure the health and well-being of us all.”

Cities around the world are encouraged to enter their greening initiatives to showcase their achievement and commitment to nature-orientated solutions to address major challenges facing urban environments. The AIPH World Green City Awards 2026 comprise seven categories:

• Living Green for Biodiversity & Ecosystem Restoration
• Living Green for Climate Change
• Living Green for Health & Wellbeing
• Living Green for Water
• Living Green for Social Cohesion & Inclusive Communities
• Living Green for Urban Infrastructure & Liveability
• Living Green for Urban Agriculture & Food Systems

A two stage judging process ensures rigour and integrity. Three Finalists for each category are selected by a Technical Panel of urban greening experts. From this list, an international Jury decides on the winners. Of the seven category winners, only one will be named Grand Winner of the AIPH World Green City Awards 2026.

The recipient of the prestigious Grand Winner title of the 2024 edition was the City of Chengdu, China, which was announced at the 2024 Awards Ceremony held at the Future World Green City Congress in Utrecht, the Netherlands. The inaugural edition of the AIPH World Green City Awards was won by the City of Hyderabad in India. Both cities impressed the judges with their city-wide approach to urban greening.

“The AIPH World Green City Awards has grown from strength to strength since the inaugural edition in 2022,” says Mr Bill Hardy, Chair of the AIPH Green City Committee. “In the past two editions of the Awards we have seen how collective action at the local level can achieve global impact. Cities are champions for the power of plants and nature, that is why all cities are invited to enter the AIPH World Green City Awards 2026.”

Entries for the Awards will remain open until 15th September 2025. Cities large and small are invited to enter their initiatives online.

The Financial Times is the latest "newspaper" to publish an article questioning the future of garden centres.

Read the article here: https://www.ft.com/content/4986c7f3-8999-4456-a8d8-04aae1ca913e#comments-anchor

British Garden Centres is delighted to announce the acquisition of Dobbies Rugby, further expanding the family-run business. This exciting news comes at the same time as the group exchanging on the lease of the Dobbies Northampton site. These additions bring the total number of centres to 72, cementing the phenomenal growth of the company as the go-to garden retail operator in the UK.

Both locations are highly regarded within their communities, and British Garden Centres looks forward to working with the existing centre teams to build upon the strong foundations already in place.

Rugby Garden Centre is expected to open in March as the team works to reset and stock the site, with Northampton following suit once the acquisition is complete. British Garden Centres will retain the current teams in both stores and due to the expected growth of the sites, there will be a recruitment drive with roles posted on the British Garden Centres website, https://www.britishgardencentres.com/careers/  and social media.

Charles Stubbs of British Garden Centres said: “These acquisitions represent a significant step forward in our continued growth and reinforce our commitment to becoming the leading garden centre group in the UK. We're delighted to welcome both teams to the British Garden Centres family and are excited about the potential for both the Rugby and Northampton sites.  By integrating these centres into our portfolio, we aim to expand our customer base and provide even more growth opportunities. With a dedication to quality, service, and leading garden plants and products, we look forward to a bright future and continued success with our suppliers.”
 
British Garden Centres (BGC) is the UK’s largest family-owned garden centre group with 72 centres around the country. The group is owned and led by The Stubbs family, who also own and operate Woodthorpe Leisure Park in Lincolnshire. 

BGC was launched in 1987 with the opening of Woodthorpe Garden Centre by brothers Charles and Robert Stubbs. Since 2018 it has expanded rapidly with the acquisition of 50 garden centres allowing it to grow from its heartland to the business it is now with 72 garden centres spread from Carmarthen to Ramsgate, Wimborne to East Durham.

The group has a team of 3000 colleagues working across the garden centres, restaurants, growing nurseries, distribution centres, Woodthorpe Leisure Park, and Woody’s Restaurant & Bar.
 
Social Media
Facebook: British Garden Centres
Twitter: @BGCentres
Instagram: @BritishGardenCentres
Website: www.britishgardencentres.com

British Garden Centres is delighted to announce another addition to the family, acquiring the former Dobbies site in Havant.  This takes the group up to 70 centres, an extremely exciting milestone for the family-run business.

Havant Garden Centre is expected to open in March as the team work to reset and stock the site. British Garden Centres will be retaining all the current centre team and in addition there will be a recruitment drive due to the expected growth of the site. Extra roles will be posted on the British Garden Centres website, https://www.britishgardencentres.com/careers/ .

Charles Stubbs, Founder and Director of British Garden Centres said: “This acquisition marks another exciting step in our growth as a leading player in UK garden retail.  We're thrilled to welcome the Havant team to the British Garden Centres family and look forward to build on the strong foundations they already have in place.

"To reach 70 centres is a huge achievement for our family-run business. This would not be possible without our amazing team and the passion they have for what we do. A huge thank you must go to our suppliers who have been so supportive as we have grown over the last few years, for which we will always be grateful.”

Planning perission for the Blue Diamond Garden Centre at Alnwick on the Northumberland Estates retail development has been granted.  The Northumberland Gazette reported: "Plans to build the ‘premier garden centre in the North East’ on the outskirts of Alnwick have received the green light.

When built and opened the centre will become the 50th Blue Diamond Garden Centre after the group added three centres last month: Harlestone Heath and Huntingdon from Dobbies and Yarnton Garden Centre.

Blue Diamond Managing Director Alan Roper told GTN Xtra that after a full Blue Diamond refurb the Harlestone Heath and Huntingdon centres will re-open late March early April.

The GCA’s annual event, organised by Chairman Elect, Ben Harrison Operations Director for Haskins Garden Centres, will be held at Carden Park Chester from January 25 until 28, 2026.

Ben, who is helping organise the conference alongside the body’s CEO, Peter Burks, explains: “Hot on the heels of our highly successful and much praised 2025 conference, we’re delighted to reveal that our next conference will take place at Carden Park Chester in January 2026.

“Our recent conference was very well attended with more than 400 members there across the two main days and we’ve had some wonderful feedback from delegates on the quality of the speakers, the ambience and the opportunities available to network and socialise. It was a great experience and one that we hope has helped inspire and energise our members to kick off 2025 with revitalised positivity.

“We’re currently working hard to make sure that our 2026 conference is even bigger and better than before, with a line-up of top speakers and plenty of chances to catch up with friends, colleagues and associates from the industry.

“It promises to be an upbeat celebration of what’s best about our sector, as well as offering some insightful information from our inspectors’ presentations and those of key business experts including those with knowledge of the economy, HR and marketing and sales.

“We’re also planning on ensuring that bookings for our 2026 event go live much sooner this year and they should be available via our website from this summer.”

The GCA was formed in 1966 and celebrates its 59th anniversary this year.

Peter Burks, GCA CEO, says: “During the 2026 conference, we’ll be officially welcoming Ben as our new Chairman. He will be taking over from Will Blake, Managing Director of St Peters Garden Centre, who has been absolutely brilliant. Although Ben is helping lead on the 2026 conference organisation, Will continues in his chairmanship throughout 2025.

“We’ll be keeping our members updated throughout the year when we unveil details of our 2026 line-up of speakers and when booking goes live. In the meantime, please keep an eye on our website and social media pages for all our latest news and follow #gcaconf2026.”

The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide.

Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

For further information, please visit www.gca.org.uk.

Harrogate BGC, Brigg BGC, Cook’s, Birkacre, Pugh’s Radyr, Bents have picked up Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Team golds in GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards, presented at Spring Fair on Monday. Smart Garden - Three Kings walked away with The Greatest Christmas Supplier gold...

Here are all the winners:

The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team – Sponsored by Woodlodge

GOLD AWARD: Webbs Wychbold

SILVER AWARD: Newquay

BRONZE AWARD: Haskins Snowhill

HIGHLY COMMENDED; Studley BGC; Snowdonia Nurseries

Finalists

• Brigg BGC
• Gates
• Haskins Snowhill
• Klondyke High Legh
• Newquay Garden Centre
• Perrywood Tiptree
• Rutland Garden Nursery
• Snowdonia Nurseries
• Squires Badshot Lea
• Studley BGC
• Webbs Wychbold

The Greatest Outdoor Plant and Christmas Tree Team - Sponsored by Pelsis Doff

GOLD AWARD

Wolseley Bridge BGC

SILVER AWARD

Coolings Rushmore Hill

Gates

BRONZE AWARD

Pugh's Wenvoe & Radyr

HIGHLY COMMENDED

St Peter’s

Poundbury        

Jacksons Boutique

Finalists

• Coolings Rushmore Hill

• Elleker Lodge
• Gates
• Haskins Ferndown
• Meadowcroft
• Newbridge Blue Diamond
• Pengelly Garden Centre
• Poundbury
• Pugh's
• Wentworth
• Wolseley Bridge BGC

The Greatest Gardening as a Christmas Gift Sales Team - Sponsored by Fandango Fire Tools

GOLD AWARD

Gates

SILVER AWARD

Duchy of Cornwall Nursery

Notcutts Rivendell

BRONZE AWARD

Newbridge Blue Diamond

Finalists

• Duchy of Cornwall Nursery
• Gates
• Glendoick
• Newbridge Blue Diamond
• Notcutts Rivendell
• Wentworth

The Greatest Christmas Gifts Team – Sponsored by Museums and Galleries

GOLD AWARD

Duchy of Cornwall Nursery

SILVER AWARD

Gates

BRONZE AWARD

Perrywood Tiptree

Finalists

• Brigg BGC
• Duchy of Cornwall Nursery
• Gates
• Glendoick
• Old Railway Line
• Perrywood Tiptree
• Raemoir
• Rutland Garden Nursery
• Wentworth

The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Promotions Team - Sponsored by Glee

GOLD AWARD

Pugh’s

SILVER AWARD

Alton

BRONZE AWARD

Albrighton BGC

Finalists

• Albrighton BGC
• Alton
• Keydell
• Old Railway Line
• Pengelly
• Pugh's

The Greatest Christmas BBQ and Outdoor Leisure Team – The SOLEX Sizzle - Sponsored by SOLEX

GOLD AWARD

Newquay

SILVER AWARD

Polhill

BRONZE AWARD

Alton

Finalists

• Alton
• Cambridge Home & Garden
• Newquay Garden Centre
• Old Railway Line
• Planters Tamworth
• Polhill

The Greatest Festive Retail Food Team – Sponsored by Pleydell Smithyman

GOLD AWARD

Pugh's Radyr & Wenvoe

SILVER AWARD

Gates

BRONZE AWARD

Notcutts Rivendell

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Beckworth Blue Diamond

Finalists

• Beckworth Blue Diamond
• Bow Garden & Aquatics
• Chessington
• Garsons Esher
• Gates
• Glendoick
• Notcutts Rivendell
• Pughs Radyr & Wenvoe
• Ruxley Manor
• St Peters

The Greatest Christmas Wild Bird Care & Pet Team - Sponsored by Marriages

GOLD AWARD

Monkton Elm

SILVER AWARD

Ruxley Manor

BRONZE AWARD

Notcutts Solihull

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Wolseley Bridge BGC

Finalists

• Fairways
• Gates
• Hillmount Ards
• Monkton Elm
• Notcutts Solihull
• Ruxley Manor
• Webbs
• Wolseley Bridge BGC

The Greatest Garden Centre Grotto Team - Sponsored by Smart Garden Products – Three Kings

GOLD AWARD

Ruxley Manor

SILVER AWARD

Gouldings Santa Experience

BRONZE AWARD

Baytree

Finalists

• Baytree
• Chessington
• Coolings Lifestyle
• Gouldings
• Hillmount Belfast
• Keydell
• Rosebank
• Ruxley Manor
• Wentworth

The Greatest Christmas Garden Centre Supplier Team – As voted for by the Garden Centre Teams visited by the judges this year

GOLD AWARD

Smart Garden - Three Kings

SILVER AWARD

Festive

BRONZE AWARD

Kaemingk

Finalists

• Coach House
• Festive
• Florasilk
• Giftware Trading
• Gisela Graham
• Kaemingk
• Premier
• Richard Lang 
• Seasonal Group
• Smart Garden

The Greatest Group Small Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Woodmansterne

GOLD AWARD

Harrogate BGC

SILVER AWARD

Studley BGC

BRONZE AWARD

Wolseley Bridge BGC

Finalists

• Albrighton BGC
• Brockworth BGC
• Garden King
• Harrogate BGC
• Hemel BGC
• Studley BGC
• Wolseley Bridge BGC

The Greatest Group Large Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Tildenet

GOLD AWARD

Brigg BGC

SILVER AWARD

Notcutts Rivendell

Sanders Blue Diamond

BRONZE AWARD

Arcadia BGC

HIGHLY COMMENDED 

Haskins Snowhill

Finalists

• Arcadia BGC
• Brigg BGC
• Haskins Snowhill
• Klondyke High Legh
• Notcutts Oxford
• Notcutts Rivendell
• Ramsgate BGC
• Sanders Blue Diamond
• Squires Badshot Lea

Judges Special Awards 

GOLD AWARDS – The Greatest Christmas in Adversity Teams

Pengelly 

The Old Well Garden Centres

GOLD AWARD – The Greatest Christmas Outdoor Event Team

Webbs Wychbold

GOLD AWARD - The Greatest Group at Christmas

British Garden Centres

The Greatest Small Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Garden Radio

GOLD AWARD

Cook’s

SILVER AWARD

Munro's

BRONZE AWARD

Poundbury

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Duchy of Cornwall Nursery

Rutland Garden Nursery

Finalists

• Cook’s
• Duchy of Cornwall Nursery
• Munro’s
• Norwich Camping & leisure
• Poundbury
• Rutland Garden Nursery

The Greatest Mid-Sized Garden Centre Christmas Team – Sponsored by Kaemingk

GOLD AWARD

Birkacre

SILVER AWARD

Castle Gardens

BRONZE AWARD

Glendoick

Finalists

• Birkacre
• Bosworths
• Castle Gardens
• Glendoick
• Jacksons Boutique
• Newquay Garden Centre
• Silverbirch

The Greatest Large Garden Centre Christmas Team – Sponsored by MorePeople

GOLD AWARD

Pugh’s Radyr

SILVER AWARD

Garsons Titchfield

BRONZE AWARD

Old Railway Line

Wentworth

Finalists

• Garsons Titchfield
• Hillmount Belfast
• Meadowcroft
• Old Railway Line
• Pugh’s Radyr
• Raemoir
• Thetford
• Wentworth

The Greatest Giant Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Kaemingk

GOLD AWARD

Bents

SILVER AWARD

Perrywood Tiptree

BRONZE AWARD

Gates

Finalists

• Barton Grange
• Bents
• Garsons Esher
• Gates
• Perrywood Tiptree
• Ruxley Manor
• Webbs Wychbold

The Greatest Christmas Garden Centre Team as voted for by customers

GOLD AWARD: Birkacre

SILVER AWARD: Allbrighton BGC      Greatest from a Group

BRONZE AWARD: Keydell Nurseries    Greatest in the South of England

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Hillmount Belfast         Greatest in Northern Ireland

Newquay                      Greatest in the South West

Old Railway Line           Greatest in Wales - equal

Snowdonia Nurseries    Greatest in Wales - equal

Trowell                         Greatest in the Midlands

Fakenham                    Greatest in East Anglia

Perrywood Tiptree       Greatest in the South East

Pugh’s Radyr    

Wolseley Bridge 

Bow Garden & Aquatic Centre  

Harrogate BGC             Greatest in the North

Munro's Nurseries        Greatest in Scotland - equal

Trioscape         

Mackenzie & Cruickshank         Greatest in Scotland - equal

Azure Garden Centre   

Brockworth BGC           

Bosworths Burton Latimer        

Top 30 2024 as voted for by customers – Finalists 

• Albrighton BGC
• Alton
• Azure Garden Centre 
• Birkacre
• Bosworths Burton Latimer
• Bow Garden & Aquatic Centre
• Braintree BGC
• Bridgnorth BGC
• Brockworth BGC
• Fakenham Garden Centre
• Garden King
• Harrogate BGC
• Hillmount Bangor
• Hillmount Belfast
• Keydell Nurseries
• Mackenzie & Cruickshank
• Munro's
• Newquay Garden Centre
• Old Railway Line
• Perrywood Sudbury
• Perrywood Tiptree
• Planters Bretby
• Pugh’s Radyr
• Pugh’s Wenvoe
• Roxton BGC
• Snowdonia Nurseries
• Summerhill
• Trioscape
• Trowell
• Wolseley Bridge BGC

Watch out for The Greatest Christmas Awards photo tours of the centres in future issues of GTN Xtra, starting this coming weekend and in the next issue of GTN magazine.