After months of consultation within the garden industry, the organisers of Glee have moved next year’s 50^thanniversary exhibition to Tuesday 10^th – Thursday 12^th September 2024 at the NEC Birmingham.

Glee takes ultimate pride in bringing together the entire garden retail ecosystem each year. Now, following market-wide feedback and insight, it has been confirmed that Glee 2024 will take place in September to better serve its retailer and supplier community

Reinforcing the future of garden retail

The decision to reposition Glee’s timing didn’t happen overnight and was just one learning to come out of months of consulting numerous steering groups, and industry-wide collaboration. The Glee team spoke to smaller independent retailers all the way through to the biggest multiples, with them all playing a part in informing the show’s latest chapter.

As Glee’s Event Director, Matthew Mein explains, these conversations had a deeper purpose: “Our industry is constantly evolving, and Glee plays an important part in shaping the future of garden retail – from the ideas shared on our stages through to the partnerships forged on the show floor. In order to do this, it’s important we stay absolutely up to date with what is promoting change now and also what the future may hold for trading conditions and trends. Staying constantly connected with our community unlocks that and armed with this knowledge, we are better positioned to create a ‘great Glee’ that supports its stakeholders with everything they need to flourish.”

A new dateline to offer tangible benefits

Boyd Douglas-Davies, the show’s new Strategic Advisor, who has been integral in the latest research project, explains how the new dates were arrived at.

“The full calendar was reviewed but September consistently embodied the ‘sweet spot’ for retailers and suppliers, with over 55% of Steering Group participants ranking September as the best month to hold Glee. By comparison, the second most popular choice, June, only had 15%.  It wasn’t as simple as ‘June is wrong’ because we know it offered value for many, but the overall effectiveness of Glee as an event for business growth changed as we moved into a new chapter post-Covid, with buying cycles, lead-times and seasonality all impacting how our industry ‘shops’.

“One issue that many retailers voiced to us was about a lack of price lists available in June and, with a need for comprehensive data to support orders for the year ahead, the buying cycle was becoming unnecessarily extended. The September timing allows for the industry as a whole to be ready, including those that export, with the show perfectly positioned at the natural close of one season, and with a new one on the horizon. This will lead to a more streamlined process, with Glee marking the transition between seasons, with ordering finalisation, planning and preparation coming immediately after the event.

“From a logistics perspective, a September event also offers multiple benefits. Stores are quieter, with teams enjoying a brief reprieve before the festive season commences. It is also term time for most schools, meaning no more crossover with the summer holiday season. This, in turn, allows retailers to bring bigger teams to Glee to be inspired and source new products and supply partners from the hundreds of exhibitors, innovators and new products that find their home at Glee every year.”

The start of things to come

As the industry buzz for Glee’s latest development takes hold, Matthew Mein, Glee Event Director explains that this move is demonstrative of Glee’s desire to remain responsive to the needs of Glee’s represented sectors. He said: “The success of Glee is aligned wholly with having our finger on the pulse of our industry. Through our latest research and continual dialogue, we are now better placed than ever to invest in the show’s future. Whether it’s tackling those topics that are effecting change, building a platform for growth, or providing a voice for the industry, we have a renewed long-term vision for Glee and look forward to bringing to market new content to support the continued advancement of garden retail.

“To everyone that has shared their thoughts on Glee’s timings, including those that kindly donated their time to join us at one of our steering groups, I’d like to say thank you. You have all been crucial in the development of this next chapter of Glee.”

Find out more 

Glee connects the garden industry to inspire change, drive growth and promote innovation​. To find out more or to register your interest in exhibiting, please visit  www.gleebirmingham.com or call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

Source Garden confirms move to September alongside Glee 2024

Source Garden, where high quality meets ethical responsibility, has confirmed that it will also take place in September 2024, with the second edition of the event taking place alongside the Glee trade exhibition.

Fully supportive of the new September dateline, Source Garden will once again return to the NEC to bring responsible suppliers and manufacturers together with brands and retailers who are looking to tun their vision into a new product line. 

Launched exclusively in 2023 as a standalone event, Source Garden offers access to key sectors, including outdoor entertaining, garden tools, pets, and supply chain services, and remains the UK’s most important event for sourcing sustainable garden products.

More than 5,000 customer votes have already been made by customers for The Greatest Christmas Garden Centre Team and as of Sunday morning these are the Top 20 out of 177 centres that have been voted for so far.

This weeks Top 20 Christmas Teams:

1. Bosworth Burton Latimer
2. Cooks Garden Centre
3. Jacksons Boutique Garden Centre
4. Busy Bee Garden Centre
5. Birkacre Garden Centre
6. Keydell Nurseries
7. Summerhill
8. Pughs Radyr
9. Gates Garden Centre
10. Albrighton BGC
11. Munro’s Garden Centre
12. Brigg BGC
13. Azure Garden Centre
14. Roxton BGC
15. Perrywood Sudbury
16. Perrywoods Tiptree
17. Planters Tamworth
18. Garden King
19. Tarporley BGC
20. Ongar BGC

Votes have also been received for:

Woodthorpe BGC, Fron Goch, Tring BGC, Braintree BGC, Bridgenorth BGC, Planters Bretby, Bosworth at Elton, Irton BGC, Newton Regis BGC, Sprowston BGC, Shipley BGC, Harrogate BGC, Pengelley Garden Centre , Ramsgate BGC, Pughs Wenvoe, Stevenage BGC, Brockworth BGC, Chipperfield BGC, Thatcham BGC, Harrow Weald BGC, Bournville BGC, Thurrock Garden Centre, Arcadia BGC, Wolseley Bridge BGC, Hornsea BGC, Tansley Barn BGC, Burford House BGC, East Durham BGC, Horncastle BGC, Bold Heath BGC, Crawley BGC, Louth BGC, Halls Garden Centre, Stanway BGC, Paddock Wood BGC, Hemel Hempstead BGC, Bressingham BGC, Carmarthen BGC, Charlbury BGC, Lewes BGC, Wimborne BGC, Carr Gate BGC, Ferndale, Osterley BGC, Winnersh BGC, Gilberdyke BGC, Upminster BGC, Birchencliffe BGC, Chilton BGC, Enfield BGC, Leyland BGC, Pulborough Garden Centre, Bolton BGC, Bromsgrove BGC, Coventry BGC, Mirfield BGC, The Old Railway Line Garden Centre, Towneley BGC, Charlecote BGC, Hitchin BGC, Studley BGC, Playhatch BGC, Woodborough Green BGC, Lytham St Annes BGC, East Bridgford Blue Diamond, Bridgemere Blue Diamond , Burford Garden Centre , Redfields Blue Diamond, Woburn Sands Emporium, Brambridge Park Blue Diamond, Haskins Ferndown, Goulds, Hatton BGC, Peterborough Blue Diamond, Worcester Blue Diamond, Yarnton Home and Garden, Hollybush Garden Centre, Jamesfield Garden Centre, Meadowcroft, Newbridge Blue Diamond, Paradise Park Newhaven , Trentham Blue Diamond, Wilton House Blue Diamond, Bicester Avenue Blue Diamond, Cadbury Blue Diamond, Cherry Lane Podington, Coton Blue Diamond, Derby Blue Diamond, Elm Farm Florist & Gift Shop, Endsleigh Blue Diamond, Fermoys Blue Diamond, Garden Wise, Gordale, Hereford Blue Diamond, Hudsons Plant Centre, Mappleborough Green, Mere Park Blue Diamond, Pennells Cleethorpes, Royston BGC, The Grange, Trowell Garden Centre , Abridge Garden Centre, Astbury Garden Centre, Barton Grange, Bell Plantation Garden Centre, Burnside Garden Centre, Canterbury Chartham Blue Diamond, Carpenders Park Garden Centre , Chapel BGC, Cherry Lane Beverley, Colleta & Tyson, Cowells, Dobbies Antrim, Dobbies Edinburgh, Dobbies Swansea, Dobbies Woodbridge, Fairways Ashbourne, Fryers Blue Diamond, Garsons Titchfield, Harlow Blue Diamond, High Leigh, Hillier Hemel Hempstead, Hillier Syon Park, Hillier Three Legged Cross, Hilltop Garden Centre, Hockley Market Garden Centre, Holme for Gardens, Jacksdale Garden centre , Lakeside Telford, Langlands Shiptonthorpe, Lower Morden BGC, Matlock Blue Diamond, Notcutts Rivendell, Nuyard Country & Garden Centre, Okells Garden Centre, Pacific Nursery , Poplar Nurseries, Pot Belly Garden Centre, Raglan Garden Centre, Rake BGC, Sanders Blue Diamond, Southwood Garden Centre, Springfields Blue Diamond, Staverton Nursery, Strikes Stokesley, Swarkestone Nursery , Tewkesbury, The Barn Garden Centre, Tingley, Tong, Trelawney Blue Diamond, Tunbridge Wells Blue Diamond, Waresley Garden Centre, Weaver Vale Garden Centre, Wentworth Garden Centre, Woodmansey Garden Centre, Wrest Park.

With voting open until Thursday 21st December there is plenty of time for more votes to be made, so if you would like to let your customers vote for your team follow this link to all of The Greatest Christmas Garden centre Team voting information and material.

The winners, that's a national winner and regional winners will be announced on The Stage at Spring Fair in Hall 2 of the NEC on Monday 5th February 2024 at 5:00pm.

The Horticultural Trades Association’s newly released November Market Update shows, despite Storm Babet and the wettest October since 1998, that UK garden centre retail saw positive trends in the last month.

Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA said: "Despite the challenges posed by the wettest October in decades and shifting consumer trends, our industry stands strong and demonstrates its ongoing resilience. In the face of Storm Babet and economic uncertainties, October 2023 not only defied traditional sales patterns but marked a respectable +2% growth.

“With adverse weather conditions and the inherent limitations of October as a typically smaller sales month, the horticultural sector showcased a commendable +2% growth in overall garden centre sales compared to the same period last year. This growth is particularly noteworthy considering plant sales suffered from the relentless rain but showed strong performance for year-to-date comparisons (Bedding was +12% and Hardy plants were +10%). 

“The strength of our performance in plant care and tool categories, coupled with a slight increase in Average Transaction Values to £23.67, reflects sustained consumer interest in their green spaces. In the non-garden/gardening categories, catering soared at +19% and food and farm shop also did well, up +9%, demonstrating that even the poor weather couldn't dampen the spirit of our garden centres as customers seek shelter and leisure in garden centre cafes and restaurants.”

Other updates of note include the Consumer Confidence Index experiencing a notable decline of -9 points to reach -30, reflecting consumers' cautious outlook amidst concerns about energy prices, fuel costs, and Christmas expenditures. The HTA recognises these challenges and identifies that providing extra incentives for customers to visit during the upcoming festive season in November and December could be key to ensuring a vibrant end to the year.

This report is released ahead of tomorrow’s (22 November) Autumn Budget announcement. The HTA submitted a number of asks to the Chancellor for consideration, urging action on trade, peat-free transition, and SME support, all of which are vital to ensure environmental horticulture can continue to deliver its potential for the UK economy and environment.

Environmental horticulture – from gardens to full-scale landscapes in rural and urban areas – is a crucial part of the nation’s economic and environmental landscape. Contributing £28.8bn to the UK economy, supporting 674,000 jobs and playing a central role in underpinning the UK’s environmental and net-zero goals.

HTA Members can read the full report on the website.

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co and joint agent, Clark Weightman have been instructed to market Millstone Garden Centre in Grimsby, Lincolnshire.

This well-established garden centre was originally established in 1989 by current owners, Tom and Joanna Rutherford and benefits from a loyal, local retail and trade customer base.

Set in the foothills of the Lincolnshire Wolds and across a 4.2-acre site within walking distance of Waltham village, this traditional, family-run garden centre specialises in offering a comprehensive range of high-quality plants, hard & soft landscaping products and a wide range of other garden-related products. The site features a retail shop, large glasshouse, conservatory and extensive standing beds.

Also included in the sale is a detached, five-bedroom house with a double garage, gardens front and rear, pond, greenhouse and vegetable plot.

After almost four decades of ownership, Tom and Joanna have decided to sell as they are hoping to retire. They comment, “After 50+ years landscaping and 40 years nurturing our family-run garden centre, retiring feels like we are ready to bring our story closer to a conclusion. We really do cherish the countless memories, blooming friendships, and the joy of cultivating a thriving and passionate gardening community. It's our time to bid farewell and send our heartfelt thanks to all our wonderful staff and our beloved customers. We’re very much looking forward to writing the next, peaceful chapter in our book!”

Andrew Birnie, Director at Christie & Co who is handling the sale, comments, “This is a great business, ideal for a family to purchase and live on site. Alternatively, as the house is accessible through its own driveway, a new owner may wish to sell it separately without too much alteration at a later date.

“The site is well-managed, has ample space for development, and enjoys a loyal customer base which is continually expanding. With the hundreds of houses being built nearby, there is plenty of scope to grow the business and capitalise on the increasing demand.”

Local MP, Tom Tugendhat, got a first-hand look at the work Hadlow College is doing to inspire the next generation of students when he visited the College’s state-of-the-art glasshouse.

Constructed in 2022, the glasshouse plays an integral part in horticulture courses and features cutting edge technology, including:

• Suspended gutters running hydroponics for tomatoes and peppers in separate houses
• LED and High Pressure sodium lighting
• Vertical growing farm
• Latest environmental control computers – PRIVA
• Fogging systems for plant propagation
• Dedicated space for individual glasshouse research
• Outdoor standing down beds for shrub and herbaceous plant production
• New structures for seasonal bedding plant production

Students work alongside practitioners from leading industry grower Thanet Earth to develop their skills and produce hydroponic tomatoes in the Venlo glasshouse.

The tomatoes are grown on a rockwool system using the industry training system known as layering. Scissor lifts are employed to allow students under supervision to work on the crop at height to carry out all the necessary cultural requirements of the crop. Biological control is used to control any unwanted pests, these are populations of beneficial insects.

The Venlo glasshouse is operated using PRIVA environmental control computers which also control the vertical growing farm where students grow a range of salad crops from seed and harvested as micro leaves in as little as three weeks for some crops.

A misting unit is also built into the glasshouse for the propagation of a wide range of plants from both stem cuttings and seeds with the aim of these finished plants being sold at pop-up plant sales which take place every Wednesday afternoon from 1pm to 4pm at the College outside the glasshouse.

Tom Tugendhat, Member of Parliament for Tonbridge and Malling, enjoyed his visit, saying: “The new glasshouse offers a brilliant opportunity for students to work alongside and learn from the fantastic team at Thanet Earth and I’m sure it will go a long way in supporting their development.”

“It is fantastic to see investment into our community like this. I had a great time visiting the new glasshouse at Hadlow College and it really shows how invested they are in our community.”

Chris Lydon, Vice Principal of Hadlow College, said: “We are proud to be working with Thanet Earth to produce tomatoes in our new Venlo glasshouse. This unique partnership gives students the best opportunities to develop their skills working alongside current practitioners from a leading industry grower and the produce from the tomato crop is used on site in our own student eatery and also distributed by Fair Share.”

Rob James, Technical Director of Thanet Earth added: “We have a long standing relationship with Hadlow going back to 2011 when we set up our first Fellowship with the college, the facilities we now have on site are perfect for nurturing the next generation of experts in our industry.”

The glasshouse illustrates a commitment from the College to regenerative farming and horticulture, using practices that minimize harm to the environment.

Unveiled earlier this year, the College also has a ‘robotic orchard and vineyard’.

This two-hectare area, showcases the latest technology including automated AI management systems, a state of the art irrigation, fertigation and frost protection system and automated fruit picking.

The crops are grown with sustainability in mind at all times. Drones are used to monitor bud set, predict yields and monitor the growth of the crop allowing precise applications of nutrition, pest and disease control methods to be used.

Sensors installed throughout the orchard monitor, amongst other things, moisture, relative humidity, PAR and rain fall.

To learn more about Thanet Earth, visit their website www.thanetearth.com

Fran Barnes, Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) Chief Executive, said: “Today’s Autumn Budget has acknowledged the need to support businesses to invest for the future. We welcome the response to our asks on Business Rates to ease the Spring cliff edge by extending small business and retail reliefs, full-expensing and measures to support the self-employed.

However, we cannot ignore that businesses across the UK horticulture industry have been feeling the mounting pressures of inflation, energy costs, skills shortages, regulatory changes, climate change, and fluctuating consumer confidence over many months. With this background, the near 10 per cent minimum wage hike is a new hurdle when businesses are already facing many workforce-related challenges.

“Access to a workforce is critical for UK horticulture. We must be able to benefit from the Autumn Statement commitments to increase apprenticeships in order to help us recruit for the evolving breadth of roles in our sector and the changing skills needs of the industry. Horticultural businesses also need to gain from the announced expedited planning processes so that the value of gardens and green spaces can be maximised in planning reform.

“When it comes to trade and borders, we are disappointed the Chancellor did not respond to the HTA’s asks on the April 2024 border changes. We need action and support to keep the UK cross-border trade in plants working. In 2022, the UK imported £753m of plants, bulbs and seeds. The trade and economic risks associated with delays and lost loads are hugely concerning.

“Green industries, as the Chancellor acknowledges, are key to future growth. We urge the government to back sectors like environmental horticultural, the original green industry, which is ideally placed to deliver even more to achieve UK net-zero, innovation, levelling-up, and green growth ambitions. Our sector contributes £28.8bn to GDP and supports 674,000 jobs across the supply chain, from growers to garden centres and manufacturers to landscapers; we must not be overlooked.”

It’s that time of year once again and British Garden Centres, the largest UK family-run garden centre group has revealed its festive decorating inspiration to help customers deck the halls for the season. From classic and natural styles to bright and bold glamour, there are ideas to suit every taste and every home.

New for 2023:  This year has seen a dopamine decor trend with homeowners embracing bold colours and playful patterns to create a fun and happy space for guests to enjoy Christmas. British Garden Centres is proud to reveal its Lollipop theme which sees sweets and tasty treats in bright vibrant colours mixed with pastel! This is a delightful and bright combination, think Christmas Red mixed with Sugar Blue, and Lipstick Pink and Pistachio for a delightful sprinkle reminiscent of Hundreds & Thousands.

Also new for this Christmas is the Fruits and Berries theme which is rich, sumptuous colours and textures with sugar finish and antique gold. Think lush greenery, frosted berries, oranges and clementines to bring texture and scent to the home. For those who like a more modern look to their festive home, Dark Nights is a dramatic theme for contemporary homes with darker shades of grey, blue and black giving a cool urban living look. A sleek but stylish trend, the darker colourway will never go out of style and will look effortless in years to come.

Visitors can also enjoy British Garden Centres’ popular schemes in-store which include:

The Traditional Christmas range features shiny reds, greens, and gold to evoke the true Christmas spirit. This collection includes ruby red poinsettias, gift bows, vintage nutcracker ornaments, wreaths, and Santa figurines. Our much-loved Winter Wonderland theme uses icy blue, silver, and white colour schemes to create an elegant festive environment, whilst the Romance collection features delicate rose tones and soft pink shades for a dreamy and romantic mood.

Gingerbread is a traditional theme with red and white with hints of green and biscuit brown. This collection includes classic gingerbread houses, striped candy canes, and sweet shop stripes. The Woodland trend features dark brown, amber, green, and terracotta colours for a fresh, nature-inspired look. This theme is perfect for garden lovers, as it can be created from foraged plants.

The powerful Midnight theme features deep rich blues paired with luxurious warm gold, inspired by celestial, zodiac, and constellation motifs. The navy-blue trend continues to gain popularity this festive season, featuring dark blue candles, gold holders, gift wraps, ribbons, ornaments, and moon and stars.

The Glam décor range adds elegance to the home this Christmas season with its warm gold accents and sprigs of holly berries. These trends will bring a touch of elegance to the home and make it feel more festive and inviting.  And for those young at heart, the Kids Festive Fun theme is aimed at children and features festive family activities and products to get you in the Christmas spirit.  Featuring products that will appeal to all ages including Paint Your Own, plush toys, and Babies First Christmas keepsakes, this will be a must-see area with gifts for everyone.

Amy Stubbs, Development and Projects Manager at British Garden Centres said: “Everyone approaches the design of our homes differently, so why should our Christmas decorations be any different? Our curated trends will appeal to all tastes and personalities and allow the Christmas aesthetic to shine through. Whether you are dreaming of a white Christmas or decking the halls with thousands of lights and bold colours, British Garden Centres has the Christmas décor theme for you.”

HSBC’s former Head of Economics will be helping delegates at the Garden Centre Association’s annual conference (January 28 until 31, 2024) understand the resurgence of inflation and the challenges that it continues to bring.

Mark Berrisford-Smith, who worked for the bank’s Commercial Banking division in the UK until June this year, will be sharing his experience and expertise with attendees on Tuesday, January 30.

GCA Chairman Elect for 2024/25 Will Blake, whose role involves organising the 2024 conference, says: “We’re delighted to be welcoming Mark to the stage at our annual conference, which takes place at the De Vere Cotswold Water Park Hotel near Cirencester, Gloucestershire from January 28 until 31, 2024.

“He previously came and presented to members back in 2013 and has been a popular request as a returnee down the years, so we thought it would be great to invite him back again this year, especially as the state of the economy is such a hot topic within the industry.

"Mark is an experienced public speaker, having undertaken more than 2,000 talks during his time working for HSBC. In the past year or two, his presentations have focused on the once-in-a-generation challenge posed by the resurgence of inflation. In particular, he warned in the summer of 2021 that the acceleration of inflation was not a temporary phenomenon.

“With interest rates now at their highest in 15 years, and with the economy again flirting with recession, Mark will be discussing the outlook for the next few years. In particular, he will focus on how long it’s likely to be before borrowing costs start to come down and consumer spending revives.”

Mark, who now works as a freelance consultant and public speaker, has degrees in economics from Sussex and London Universities.

From 2012 until 2023, he was Head of Economics for HSBC’s Commercial Banking division in the UK, where his role involved advising the bank’s senior management and its clients on developments in the global and UK economies.

An important part of his job was to speak at client events organised or co-hosted by HSBC, as well as at conferences sponsored by the bank.

His work has involved making sense of the causes and consequences of the global financial crisis of 2008-09, and the subsequent debt crisis in the Euro Area; detailing the economic consequences, and practicalities, for businesses of Brexit; and explaining the long-term damage done to the UK, and other major economies, by the Covid pandemic.

Peter Burks, GCA CEO, says: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming Mark back to our conference this year. His presentation in 2013 was very informative and valuable to all those who heard it.

“He will be speaking at our 2024 conference about what the economy is doing, where it is likely to be going in the future and the implications this will have on our garden centre members and associates, who are suppliers to the industry. It’s a not to be missed presentation that is vital for everyone who owns, runs and/or manages a business.

“To find out more, please go to the conference pages on our website members’ section. There is also a dedicated email conference@gca.org.uk for any queries anyone may have. If non-members would like to join us, so they can attend, please email info@gca.org.uk.”  

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.

Its 2024 annual conference will be held at the De Vere Cotswold Water Park Hotel near Cirencester, Gloucestershire from January 28 until 31, 2024 and places can be booked via the organisation’s website www.gca.org.uk.

Hyve Group has announced the appointment of two new leaders to the team, Jackson Szabo as Portfolio Director for Spring Fair and Autumn Fair and Soraya Gadelrab as the new Event Director for Spring Fair and Autumn Fair.

The two senior appointments to the team will strengthen and revitalise the leadership team for Retail’s definitive wholesale shopping destinations, shaping the future of the industry. 

Nicola Meadows, Divisional Managing Director for the Retail, Manufacturing and Engineering Division says, “We’re thrilled to introduce our two new leaders Jackson Szabo and Soraya Gadelrab who are joining our team. Their fresh perspectives and wealth of experience will undoubtedly invigorate our sector. Bringing together years of experience with a track record of innovation and success, these talented individuals will propel the team forward setting new standards within our industry.  Jackson and Soraya are brimming with exciting ideas that will inspire. Their vision and creativity will shape our future endeavours, fostering growth and excellence. With their arrival, we’re embarking on an exciting chapter; together, driving positive change and achieving remarkable results.”

Jackson Szabo adds, “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Spring Fair and Autumn Fair, brands that are aspirational for anyone in the UK events industry. Spring Fair is coming up to 75 years old and was the first show to call the NEC home as well as being the largest show in Europe. Spring Fair and Autumn Fair exist to serve the retail industry – an industry fuelled by Britain’s entrepreneurs, bellwethers and creative minds and I very much look forward to working with this incredible community to ensure that the shows do everything they can to drive value to retailers and suppliers alike while serving and supporting both exciting, new businesses and institutional incumbents.”

Soraya Gadelrab says, “I’m incredibly excited to be joining the team at Spring Fair & Autumn Fair. I look forward to working with this passionate team to drive forward these heritage events, ensuring we evolve them to reflect the ever-changing retail sector which we serve.”

Spring Fair takes place on the 4th - 7th February 2024 and Autumn Fair from 1st – 4th September 2024, both at NEC Birmingham.

Broadcaster, writer and celebrity gardener Monty Don OBE has received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Stirling in recognition of his outstanding contribution to horticulture, broadcasting, and charity. 

Monty celebrated his honorary degree alongside 418 graduates at a ceremony on the Stirling campus on Friday.

Monty said: “I am flattered and delighted to receive this degree from the University of Stirling. Although I have lived my life in England, my family are proudly Scottish, so to receive this honour from a Scottish university is doubly gratifying.” 

Born Montagu Don in West Berlin, Monty is the great nephew of Scottish botanist George Don. Both of his paternal grandparents were Scottish. 

Monty, whose television and writing work has been prolific, has had a lifelong passion for gardening, although no formal training. He failed his A levels first time round – but went on to re-sit them at night school and gained a place at the University of Cambridge, where he studied English. 

A keen proponent of organic gardening and sustainable beekeeping, Monty has spoken out about the therapeutic benefits of gardening for mental and physical health. He has written of his own struggle with depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder. 

Monty has been affiliated with a number of charities and organisations, including the Bees for Development Trust, the Soil Association and Farms for City Children. In 2018, he was made Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). 

Monty has hosted a range of programmes across the BBC and Channel 4, including Channel 4’s Real Gardens and Fork to Fork and, for the BBC, programmes including Monty Don’s Japanese Gardens, Paradise Gardens, and Italian Gardens, Around the World in 80 Gardens, and the Chelsea Flower Show. He has hosted BBC Two’s Gardeners’ World for the best part of two decades. Writing credits include The Observer, Daily Mail and BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. He is also the author of more than 20 books.  

Professor Sir Gerry McCormac, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Stirling, said: “Monty Don is truly inspiring in his field, with interests that span the natural environment, health and wellbeing, and the community. His passions mirror the research and specialisms of the University of Stirling and his commitment to making change in the world aligns with our own purpose. We are proud to have him join our alumni community.” 

Everyone wants a reputation as a seller of quality plants, because if plants prove difficult for consumers to keep alive, they might avoid buying them again. Poinsettias have an undeserved reputation as a fussy plant, but in fact, caring for them is easy if you remember a few special tips.

The poinsettia experts at SfE are here to give five top tips to help you, your staff, and your customers care for poinsettias correctly, so they can be enjoyed throughout the autumn and winter months.

Tip 1: Close the door, keep your profits inside

With seasonal plants it’s tempting to display them where they will be the first thing customers see when they open the door, but poinsettias should be the exception to this rule. They are native to the hotter climates of central America so they don’t like draughts. This means it’s important to keep them away from open doors or windows in your store, and at a temperatures of no less than 12°C.

Why is this so important? The effects of the cold might not be visible immediately but over time the plant might shrivel and die, and your profit along with it. This could happen either in-store or worse – once your customer gets their poinsettia home. If they think your plants are poor quality, they won’t buy from you again, so you should always protect your star assets by keeping them somewhere draught-free and communicate the same message to your customers. This both demonstrates your knowledge and boosts long-term sales.

Like people, poinsettias need to be wrapped up warmly for their journey home. After a sale, always make sure you and your staff wrap poinsettias in plenty of paper.

Tip 2: Don’t overwater, display the champagne glass trick

The most common way people kill their poinsettias is by overwatering. As a tropical plant, poinsettias don’t need much moisture, so little and often is the key. Follow this tip to make sure you and your staff won’t waste precious time or water in giving plants more than they need.

Every two to three days, a poinsettia in a standard size pot (about 13cm) needs roughly 100ml, which is about as much as you’d fit in a champagne flute. You’ll need less for smaller pot sizes, for example, a shot glass worth of water for a mini poinsettia. As the festive season approaches, it’s fitting to remember this tip with celebratory drinking glasses.

You could even display your plants with an empty champagne flute among them, with a chalkboard sign explaining the trick, to remind staff and customers of the exact amount of water needed.

If unsure, to test whether poinsettias need watering, push a fingertip into the soil. It should be neither soaking wet nor very dry. An average sized poinsettia needs watering every two to three days but smaller volumes of soil will need watering more often, or if they’re kept in a very warm room or near a source of heat.

Make poinsettia watering part of your everyday business routine. For example, on a weekly planner, mark the day and the staff member responsible for doing it, so the job never gets forgotten or gets done too often by mistake!

Reinforce the message by downloading SfE’s free handy icons to put up in your storeroom or workspace, to remind staff to water moderately.

Tip 3: Remember the 15-minute rule

Poinsettias don’t like being waterlogged so always empty the saucer or planter of any excess moisture 15 minutes after watering, to avoid their roots standing in liquid. Alternatively, you can water the plant from the base, letting it drink from the bottom. To do this, pour water directly into the saucer or planter, then place the poinsettia in the water and wait for about 15 minutes for the soil to soak it up. If the water disappears quickly, add a little more. Once the liquid level doesn’t change for several minutes, the plant has had enough and it’s time to discard the excess.

Tip 4: Help customers to help themselves – educate them

Poinsettias are such beautiful, decorative plants that no home should be without one (or more) during the autumn and winter months. Help your customers get the best out of their plant, and encourage them to purchase, by educating them with expert care advice from SfE.

You can do this in many ways, from sharing it on your website and social media, to printing posters, flyers, or care cards – see the next tip to learn more about materials offered by SfE. Don’t forget to use word-of-mouth at the till to share your knowledge in person, making it even more memorable.

This will give existing customers the confidence that you are knowledgeable about your plants, and for those who haven’t yet purchased a poinsettia, learning expert care tips might persuade them to do so.

Tip 5: Use SfE’s free downloadable tools

Visit SfE’s dedicated trade website, www.sfe-trade.com, where you can access free retail-specific downloads from the resources section, including helpful care icons and posters for encouraging your staff to give proper care in-store. You can download a free, readymade newsletter full of poinsettia care tips and email it out to your customer database. You can also share SfE’s new care videos and graphics on your social media channels, to educate your customers. SfE also offers free, downloadable point-of-sale materials such as care flyers, ready for printing and distributing to customers in-store.

The team at a South Leeds adventure play attraction is celebrating after it was shortlisted for a Yorkshire tourism award.

Mission Out, based at Tingley Garden Centre, has reached the final of the Newcomer award in the Yorkshire Post Tourism Awards. 

Tingley Garden Centre is part of the Yorkshire Garden Centres family. Group Play Manager, Caroline Ellis is delighted with the news:"Since we acquired our first garden centre at Tong in 2015, it's always been our ambition to be a great destination attraction for all the family and we were aware that there was a gap in our offer for something new and exciting for 7 - 14 year olds to enjoy. In a world that can be dominated by screen time, our challenge was to create a park that inspires, engages and challenges this age group.

"Visitor numbers suggest that we have achieved our ambition and a place in the final is great recognition for the team's hard work and exceptional customer service."

Mission Out faces competition from Elsworth at the Mill, Harrogate Ghost Walk, No. 1 York
and York Minster Refectory. The team will learn whether they have been successful at an awards ceremony at New Dock, Leeds on 4th December. The judges include Wayne Topley, MD of the Cedar Court Hotels Group and Chef Consultant, Steph Moon.

The Yorkshire Garden Centres group also owns Tong Garden Centre and the former Stephen H Smith's Garden Centres in Otley and Bingley.

Popcorn Kitchen has enjoyed significant growth over the last three years, the fruits of a root & branch review of its brand 18 months earlier, which sought not simply to underpin the brand’s distinct DNA but to explore additional gifting pathways that played into brand’s snowballing popcorn prowess.

Step back even a few years and it seemed that popcorn’s best days were long gone, having been peddled in every imaginable way, from light low-calorie nibble to indulgent, side-of-sofa treats.  Everywhere you looked supermarkets had stacked shelves with big family packs of trusted, ‘old school’ flavours which helped fuel the feeling that popcorn for all its nostalgic appeal and permissive indulgence had become snacking wallpaper.  

With its distinct home counties food festivals heritage, it was clear that Popcorn Kitchen was always going to take a stand, not only for best-in-class ingredients and quintessentially English flavour marriages (Lemon Drizzle, Cherry Bakewell, Mint Chocolate….), but for an eclectic array of discerning, independent ‘foodie theatres,’ such as: garden centres, farm shops, delis, hamper baskets, food halls, coffee shops and curated online marketplaces like Not On The High Street and Amazon, who all too often felt like 2^nd class citizens within food & drink retail.

According to Popcorn Kitchen owner, Louise Webb ‘As a business already well known for its gigantic popcorn bottles, we knew there was a place for a small batch popcorn provider that was prepared to champion fine snacking theatre.’

3 EXAMPLES OF THINKING OUTSIDE THE PACK

Home Poppin Kits: Imagine a format that enabled parents and children to make fresh home movie popcorn together.   Each full-to-brimming bottle came rammed full with quality mushroom popcorn kernels (the perfect podgy bite), Belgian Milk Chocolate chips and all-important nostalgic topping, chocolate eggs, chocolate sprouts, marshmallows, white chocolate Jazzies….  

Popcorn Kitchen seized the opportunity to own a simple home cooking ritual which neatly culminated in a great night in family get-together (movie, games night…). 

Chocolate Confectionery: Popcorn and confectionery are kindred spirits but historically this perfect union has been thwarted by producers settling for sub-standard chocolate or tasteless cotton wool popcorn.  Popcorn Kitchen broke the mould insisting on Belgian chocolate and enticing flavour unions White Chocolate & Raspberry, Chocolate Orange and a headspinning Salted Caramel.

12 Days of Christmas Gift House: Another old school tradition that Popcorn Kitchen wanted to upgrade was the timeless advent calendar.  Why settle for 24 teeny weeny treats when you can have 12 bulging bags of popcorn joy.  

Popcorn Kitchen always wanted to be more than a stack-it-high popcorn pusher, which is why the independent food sector is the perfect partner for a popcorn champion with a theatrical edge. Popcorn Kitchen is a Growing Business finalist 29.11.23

Popcornkitchen.co.uk

Spring Fair, the UK's most popular, diverse, and trend led marketplace for home, gift, fashion and everyday, and retail’s definitive wholesale shopping destination, has created a Community Team to serve as a valuable resource for exhibitors and buyers. 

For exhibitors, the team’s role includes attracting the new buyers they want to target and supporting existing customers to better understand their needs at the show. The aim is to create a more personalised experience onsite and identify new business opportunities by leveraging insights from the show’s existing customer base and feedback areas, as well as pinpoint developing trends, product needs, and new client bases.

Laura Rae, Head of Community at Spring and Autumn Fair, says, “As we enter this festive season, the profound impact of retail on our lives becomes unmistakably evident. For me, it’s the joy of discovering a favourite new shop or the excitement of witnessing a loved one open the perfect gift, retail creates cherished memories and new traditions for all to share. In my role as the Head of Community for Spring & Autumn Fair, my team and I are eager to extend this sense of wonder and delight to the buyers who explore the halls of the NEC each year.

“To achieve this, we’re committed to understanding our exhibitor’s businesses and the businesses of their buyers more intimately. We’re actively building focus groups, scheduling research calls, and visiting establishments across the country to identify the triumphs and challenges affecting the retail sector both locally and internationally.  These insights will help us identify new buyers to bring into the show and create a more fulfilling experience for those buyers who’ve attended the show for many years.

Offering a first port of call for exhibitors and buyers, Rae adds, “We recognise that our community’s success and the vibrancy of Spring Fair go hand in hand. My team of dedicated Community Managers and I will be here to be your direct line into the show, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and needs are met.”

Spring Fair has brought the industry together for over 70 years so retail's people can discover the latest products and trends. The next show, taking place from 4th – 7th February 2024 at NEC Birmingham, will be an inspirational, product-led experience dedicated to the magic of discovery. Buyers will see, touch and experience thousands of the latest products across four key destinations - Home, Gift, Moda, and Everyday - and fourteen definitive sectors. An efficient show layout designed around buyer’s needs will mean less time spent finding suppliers and products and more time experiencing them.

For more information please visit www.springfair.com.

Inspiring retail’s creators and curators, Spring Fair puts thousands of new products across home, gift and fashion at the forefront of UK retail. Only available to see at the next show on 4th – 7th February at NEC Birmingham, a host of exclusive Home brands have been revealed including Coach House, Hill Interiors, Pacific Lifestyle, Garden Trading as well as the exciting new partnership between Libra and Laura Ashley.

Nick Davison, Portfolio Director, Spring Fair says, “I’m extremely excited by our Home destination for 2024. We’re delighted to offer buyers some sensational exclusive brands at the show, alongside some great looking newcomers. From our work to create an easy to navigate and efficient onsite experience to the hours of free content on trends and industry topics, our aim is to produce the best possible environment for showcasing new products and trends, to put the products and their creators at the heart of the show, and offer an inspirational showcase for buyers that they can trust in to deliver the next successes for their business. Spring Fair looks set to be the must-attend Home destination for 2024.”

Showing exclusively at Spring Fair 24 in Home, Living & Décor, are Coach House, CIMC and Hill Interiors. Returning with a huge collection of new designs, Coach House is set to wow buyers with a stand-out interiors showcase featuring a myriad of diverse collections spanning from traditional to contemporary furniture, lighting, design-led accessories, artificial floral, Indian antiques, spectacular festive products, garden and outdoor furniture, planters and urns, and classical ornamental items.

Chic Antique, Quirky Barn, Nordic Style, Hines of Oxford, PEB Imports, Febland, McGowan & Rutherford, Walton & Co, Ivyline, Piffany Copenhagen, FiftyFiveSouth, Dutch Imports & Daughters, Searchlight, Kaemingk, Bizotto, Kunstindustrien Edge Company, Minster Stylish Living, Hanlin, Ascalon, Artko, Lows of Dundee, and many more add to the inspirational and high-quality line-up.

British based newcomers, Dottypix bring their sustainable handcrafted objects for the home that appeal to minimal yet meaningful aesthetics, and Burgess Reclamation make their debut. Artifex Natura will present their passion for tropical and exotic plants through their collection of terraniums, zero maintenance preserved plant artwork, as well as unusual glass and nature-based home décor.

The February show will also present a sumptuous spectacle of home textiles with the return of home textiles experts Turner Bianca showcasing their portfolio of brands including Bianca Fine Linens, born too…, Dorma, Hyperion, Content by Terence Conran, Catherine Lansfield, Matthew Williamson, Pineapple Elephant and Sassy B. Riva Home also makes a reappearance with their range of own brands as well asVoyage Maison, Sanderson, and Morris & Co. They join Harwood Textiles, Swedish brands Oejbro Engros with their exuberantly creative range pure merino knits, and Skinnwille skeepskin soft furnishings, as well as Peggy Wilkins’ fantastic selection of table linen, table accessories, kitchen and home textiles for both Christmas and all year.

The Summerhouse

Highly inspirational, exclusive and sought-after, The Summerhouse will delight visitors with beautiful, style-led and on-trend homewares, lifestyle products, and gifts from The Libra Company who will be introducing its new Laura Ashley collections, as well as One.World, Gallery Direct, Art Marketing, Garden Trading, Pacific Lifestyle, and leading Belgian lifestyle interiors brand J-Line by Jolipa joining the star-studded line-up exclusively in the UK at Spring Fair 24.

Paul McLaughlin, Managing Director at The Libra Company says, “With 70 years of design excellence, Laura Ashley is one of the world’s best-loved home and lifestyle brands. Founded on a rich heritage and on traditional values of quality and originality, Laura Ashley offers timeless designs, signature prints and quintessentially British styles to suit every home. Renowned for design and innovation, Libra has become synonymous for crafting opulent, refined interiors and shares Laura Ashley’s passion for creating beautiful living spaces. In this partnership, we have combined Laura Ashley's enduring aesthetic and Libra's dedication to design innovation. The result is a captivating collection of luxurious, sophisticated home accessories and furniture that encapsulates the essence of timeless design. Join us at Spring Fair where we’ll launch this exquisite collection, where every product tells a story of British heritage and style.”

Nigel Lawrence, Sales Director at Pacific Lifestyle is looking forward to welcoming buyers to their larger stand at the show, saying “Our dedication to Spring Fair has enabled us to increase our footprint, allowing us to showcase a wider range of our collections for 2024. Our new Home 2024 ranges launch in January, and Spring Fair is the perfect opportunity to receive some Yorkshire hospitality whilst browsing our selections. Our Account Managers will be ready to discuss your requirements, and we look forward to introducing you to some newness. We have hundreds of new Home products for 2024; many new ranges are showcased, including some innovative range extensions on our most popular collections.”

The Summerhouse also welcomes a hand-picked and curated selection of desirable brands including Malini, StoneGlow, Inis, HugRug, Jellycat, Chive, Weaver Green, The Braided Rug Company, Wikholm, Bloomingville, and Blooms by Samuel Baker, as well as luxurious textiles from Ian Mankin, John Spencer Textiles and Remony.

Exciting new Danish brands to the show include Piffany Copenhagen, a design company committed to bringing unique designs to life through ethical, considered craftsmanship. Look out for their collaborations with both new and established artists and designers creating beautiful pieces that bring their own personality to their function. Visitors will also discover beautifully crafted candles from KunstIndustrien, as well as dyed dipped candles, candlesticks, hurricanes, accessories for candles, Living by Heart, ANIA and much more.

Housewares

Bringing all the latest ideas, innovations and trends to the table, Housewares features the latest kitchenware, cookware, tabletop décor, and dining ideas from brands. Already Spring Fair buyer favourites, Manchester-based My Gifts Trade return with their beautiful array of homewares designs including collaborations with Costa Nova, Gusta, Casa Fina, Pip Studio, and more. Don’t miss PureTableTop featuring Kew, Olly Smith and Joules, and Captivate Brands with more new designs from Mary Berry, Yvonne Ellen, and Catherine Lansfieldamongst others.

Buyers will also discover T&G Woodware, Ekau Homewares, David Mason Design, Ulster Weavers, Dunlevy Distributors, Citylook Imports, International Cookware, and big-name brands from RKW featuring SMEG, Tower, and Russell Hobbs; and Ultimate Productspresenting Salter, Progress, and Beldray. Housewares newcomers include MarbleHaven, Kleen-Tex Industries, Primeur Ltd, Bluebell and Lark, DRAD International Ltd, and Zensan.

Firm favourites, The DRH Collection proudly return with their beautiful glassware and tableware aimed at the higher end of retail and hospitality sector. The DRH Collection also benefit from the finest design inspiration through its main partners, BIA - porcelain ovenware and giftware, Artland - glass stemware and accessory pieces, and Anton Studio Design- modern, colourful glassware.

For a fun range of small domestic appliances including waffle makers, sandwich toasts and toasters, take a look at DKB Distribution, and home of brands Igenix, Statesman, Ewbank and Ariete, and via Pik-a-Pak Distribution, Bluestem Group also distributes many of the leading consumer brands including Dualit, Russell Hobbs, Panasonic, Black & Decker and Tefal – visit their stand to discover all their latest products.

Everyday

Showcasing the most diverse range of product sectors under one roof, from giftware to home décor, smoking accessories to electrical goods, domestic appliances to vaping products, and so much more, Everyday plays host to Gem Imports, PMS International, Airpure, Ecobag, RMS International, 151 Products, DCS Group, Sheldon International, Tallon International, Whitefurze, Utopia Crafts, Winners Europe, and Pricecheck, as well as first timers Keplin Group, Bonningtons, and Ven-dens Accessories, and returning this February Edco Eindhoven B.V.

As the buyers one-stop marketplace for everything new and on-trend for 2024, Spring Fair is the must-attend home, gift and fashion buying showcase. More than just a trade show, Spring Fair has been the hub for knowledge and inspiration for over 70 years and continues to be the perfect platform for knowledge, inspiration, and networking with new and existing contacts in-person.

It runs from 4th – 7th February 2024 at NEC Birmingham. For more information please visit www.springfair.com  

GTN September/October 2023: The Complete Glee New Product Showcase Directory.  In this issue:

• A passion for pots – GTN Interview at Woodlodge
• Norwegian Style outdoors with Fandango
• Captain of garden machinery – Mark Moseley Interview
• GCA Regional Awards – Full 2023 results
• GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards – Enter now!
• Water-wise Planteria retailing from Timber Displays
• Home comforts - GTN visits Yarnton Home & Garden
• Glee New Product Showcase – The complete directory
  • Garden Growing Containers
  • DIY Products
  • Garden Decoration
  • Gifts, Body & Bath, Christmas, Greetings Cards, Toys & Games
  • Garden Tools & Machinery
  • Growing Accessories
  • Growing Materials
  • Homewares, Clothing & Fashion Accessories
  • Landscaping & Garden Buildings
  • Garden Leisure & Entertaining
  • Pet Products
  • Plants, Seeds and Bulbs
  • Retail Services & Experiences
  • Wild Bird Care & Wildlife Products
• Pets show success – PATS Telford 2023
• GTN Planteria Special
  • Highlights from Four Oaks
  • Plants of the future
• Challenging success - LOFA Column
• Reaching our full Potential – Environmental Horticulture Group Column
• Notes from an Indian Summer - HTA Column
• They think it’s all over… – GIMA Column

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

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

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

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

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.

with all the news direct to your e-mail inbox.  The best news service every weekend and all the breaking news as it happens.

Subscribe for free using this link

The Commercial Horticultural Association (CHA) will be hosting a group of UK exhibitors at Fruit Logistica, 7-9 February 2024 in Berlin.

Fruit Logistica covers every single sector of the fresh produce business and provides a complete picture of the latest innovations, products and services across the international supply chain. The fair covers the entire spectrum of the value chain - from producer to consumer and a raft of product areas, including fresh fruit and vegatables, dried fruit and nuts, packaging and labelling, transport and logistics systems, produce handling and storage, tech solutions and cultivation systems.

The 2023 edition included 2,600 exhibitors and 63,000 visitors from 140 countries.

Companies booked into the UK pavilion so far include Botanicor, Primafruit and Bedfordshire Growers, with several other suppliers about to confirm.

“We offer fully built exhibition stands in a prime location in a prominent area of the show. We simplify the process of exhibiting, to help our exhibitors prepare for and make the most of the show, promote the British group presence and make exhibiting a turnkey experience,” commented Lydia Stubbs, Events Manager for the CHA.

“We are working with the UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT) in Germany to organise a webinar and market research.

“There is also an opportunity for introductions to the DBT team’s external partners who can organise B2B meetings. This extra support will be invaluable for our exhibitors so that they are well briefed and prepared to do business in this market,” Lydia continued.

A few final spaces remain on the UK pavilion, which can accommodate small starter exhibiting packages as well as space for larger companies.

For more details and to book your participation, contact lydia@cha-hort.com

Garden Centre Association members will hear from Human Resources professionals as well as peers on the topic of recruitment and retention during a free webinar next month.

The GCA is hosting the event, chaired by GCA Chairman Tammy Woodhouse, on Thursday, December 7 from 9.30am and it’s aimed at members’ HR departments and retail departmental managers.

Peter Burks, GCA Chief Executive, says: “All Members and Associates Members are welcome to attend this free online event. The focus will be two hotly debated topics in recent times – recruitment and retention. We’ve Tracey Bowler HR Director from Millbrook Garden Centres and Jo Ripley HR Manager of Squires Garden Centres, who will share their recent experiences and any ideas they have to overcome current challenges.

“We’ll also hear from the main two players in horticultural recruitment, who have some interesting research to share. First up, we’ve Sarah Want of MorePeople, which has recently published a survey on staff benefits and retention of employees. She’ll be followed by Ruth Bolam of Horticruitment, which has conducted a survey on what people like to see in a job advert and what attracts candidates to apply.

“Both will also be able to help with any recruitment trends or tips on how to find and keep the right people. There will be an opportunity for attendees to share their stories and ideas as well and to ask questions too. 

“If there is time at the end, attendees can share with each other any general HR experiences they may have had or anything they have recently learnt. The expectation is that this will last for no more than 90 minutes. Please email me peter@gca.org.uk if you would like to attend, so that we can send you the invitation link.”

IPM Essen, the industry’s largest international trade fair, has joined as Host Sponsor for the AIPH International Grower of the Year (IGOTY) Awards – a partnership that will include the 2024-26 editions of the celebration.

Organised by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) and founding partner FloraCulture International (FCI), the IGOTY Awards celebrate the best of the best in ornamentals production. The awards comprise four categories: finished plants and trees, young plants, cut flowers and bulbs, and sustainability.

An annual AIPH-approved trade show, IPM Essen covers the whole lifecycle of ornamental production, from breeding to the point of sale. The show brings together horticultural producers, retailers, and technology from around the world.

Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen, commented: "Two great events will come together in 2024: The 40th IPM ESSEN will not only be the meeting place for the global horticultural industry, but also the venue for the Grower of the Year Awards. We are delighted that our long-standing partner AIPH has chosen Messe Essen as the platform for this trend-setting industry award. Especially in its anniversary year, this will give the world's leading horticultural trade fair even more radiance."

The 2024 IGOTY awards reception and ceremony will be held on Tuesday 23rd January 2024 in Hall Ruhr at IPM Essen in Germany. In addition to the ceremony, AIPH will host an industry conference and panel with inspirational speakers and previous IGOTY winners. Details will be announced soon.

Tickets for the evening reception and awards ceremony cost only €75 (incl. VAT) per person. Groups of five tickets are available for the discounted price of €300 and groups of ten for €600. To secure your place, visit the AIPH Website.

AIPH thanks Host Sponsor IPM Essen, Founding Partner FloraCulture International, Sapphire Sponsor GLOBALG.A.P. & GGN Label, Pearl Sponsor MyPlant & Garden, and Media Partners Economía & Viveros, Guiaverde, and Pod Osłonami PL for their continued support of the awards.

As the AMES Companies continues on its upward projection, firmly on its mission to being the garden retail industry’s ‘partner of choice’, it has recently appointed a new Finance Director to support this growth.

With two decades of experience under his belt, including manufacturing, distribution and FMCG sectors, John Thompson is the perfect fit to lead the next chapter at AMES, with the financial landscape firmly in his sights. In this new role, John will be responsible for all aspects of accounting and payroll, plus financial planning, reporting and analysis.  Additionally, with significant investments already underway across the business including new warehousing and ERP systems, John will be working as part of the wider leadership team to ensure that every aspect of these investments offer real tangible value for not just its customers but also the internal teams.    

John said of his appointment: “I have been greatly impressed by the vision for the AMES Companies and the steps that have already been taken to achieve this. What’s more, the people and the culture make this a superb place to work, and I am keen to make an impact in this new role. With ambitious growth plans comes the need to make the right decisions in both the short term and the long term, and it is here that the finance team and I come into play. It’s an exciting prospect to be part of this story and look forward to seeing many of our plans for the future come to fruition.”

Find out more

To find out more about the AMES Companies, please visit https://ames-uk.com/

Johnsons Lawn Seeds, Gardena, Miracle-Gro and Westland were among the garden centre suppliers who sponsored categories in The Garden Media Guild Awards 2023, which took place at The Savoy Hotel last week.

Gardena sponsored The Peter Seabrook Practical Book of the Year Award, which was won by Emma Crawforth for “50 Things to do with Plants.”

Stihl were the sponsors of Garden Book of the Year won by Shahina Chaznafar for “Plants of the Quar’an.”

Johnsons Lawn Seeds sponsored the Garden Publication of the Year which was Gardens Illustrated.

Cobra were the sponsors of Practical +Journalist of the Year who was Benedict Vanheems.

Linda Petrons from Greenfingers Charity presented the Gordon Rae Photographer of the year Award to Bennett Smith.

Guild Committee member Kimberley Hornby presented the Portfolio Photographer of the Year Award to Molly Hollman.

HTA President Alan Down announced the Radio Broadcast or Podcast of the year winner, which was Talking Gardens by Gardens Illustrated.

Evergreen Garden Care, under their Miracle-Gro brand, sponsored The Alan Titchmarsh New Talent of the Year Award, won by Bob Askew.

Past Guild Chair, Val Bourne won Digital Gardening Writer of the Year, sponsored by Honda.

Thompson & Morgan were sponsors of Individual Social Media Influencer of the Year who was Rekha Mistry for Rekha's Garden & Kitchen.

Brand Social Media Influencer of the Year was sponsored by The Garden Press Event, presented by GIMA’s Vicky Nuttall.  The winner was Borde Hill Garden.

Finally, Barbara Segall was awarded the Outstanding Contribution Award, sponsored by Westland Horticulture.

See GTN Xtra's gallery of photos from the awards lunch below

Vitax Limited has appointed a new area sales manager to cover the North West region as it continues with its drive to expand its presence in the area following investment in new products and additions to key brands.

Chris Hilton joins the team from Shackletons Home and Garden where he was head of plant and sundries.

With over 35 years’ experience in the horticulture industry, Chris will be responsible for driving new accounts, whilst working alongside existing customers and Vitax’s distributors.

Prior to joining Vitax, Chris worked in a variety of roles including garden centre management, but his key strengths lie in area sales management, building customer relationships, securing new business and long-term account development.

Mark Butler, Vitax’s national sales manager, says: “We’re thrilled to secure an area sales manager with the strength and depth of knowledge Chris will bring to the team.

“Chris has already built a great reputation within the garden centre industry in the North West through previous roles and we are excited to introduce him to our existing clients and prospects.”

With a real passion for gardening and the great outdoors, Chris is currently studying an RHS Level 2 in Horticulture and will work across Vitax’s portfolio in the North West region, as well as working alongside the company’s sales team to drive and promote the sale of new product lines.

“It is very rare to find an opportunity to join a company that is not only steeped in history, but also well known and respected in the horticulture industry.

“Vitax’s market-leading brands have been a staple for many gardeners and garden centres for many years and I am excited to be able to introduce their products to new customers as well as joining such a strong team,” added Chris.

To find out more about Vitax, visit: www.vitax.co.uk

Southern Trident announces its remarkable achievements in 2023 and sets the stage for further success in 2024. As a company dedicated to environmental responsibility, Southern Trident has solidified its position as one of the most eco-conscious manufacturers in the industry.

Southern Trident has been at the forefront of environmental stewardship, establishing itself as a carbon-neutral company. All coir sourced by Southern Trident is Soil Association organic approved, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to sustainable and organic practices. As an early adopter and supporter of the Responsible Sourcing Scheme it joins the call for a more robust measurement of responsibility, consumer awareness and a focus on product quality, in short ensuring the growing media works and gives expected results.

The success of 2023 has been underscored by Southern Trident's triumph at Glee, where the company clinched the coveted "Growing Materials" award for its innovative expanding Houseplant range. This range, featuring Houseplant, Cactus, Orchid, and Citrus composts, stands out for its unique composition. Unlike other houseplant composts that include bark and woody materials, Southern Trident's solution is made of coir, preventing issues like Sciarid Fly infestations as well as fantastic plant growth.

Furthermore, Southern Trident was recognised with the Sustainability Award at Four Oaks, reinforcing the company's commitment to offering products that not only resonate with consumers and retailers but also contribute positively to the environment.

Looking ahead to 2024, Southern Trident continues the expansion of the world's only carbon-neutral growing media, the Harmony Gardens range. This step is a testament to Southern Trident's unwavering dedication to sustainable practices and its commitment to growing this essential sector of the business and demand from garden centres for additional products in the range.

Steve Harper, CEO at Southern Trident, is excited about the company's achievements, stating, "We continue to be humbled by the recognition of our products and the success of 2023. Our commitment to environmental responsibility has not only set us apart in the market but has also been acknowledged by prestigious awards. As we move into 2024, we are excited to expand our Harmony Gardens range, further solidifying our position as leaders in carbon-neutral growing media as well as the other sectors we trade in. Commercially our products sell, the new Houseplant compost is gaining rapid distribution in retailers large and small and flying off the shelves."

About Southern Trident

Southern Trident is a growing name in the garden centre and nursery sector, committed to producing environmentally responsible and innovative products. As a carbon-neutral company, Southern Trident continues to lead the industry in sustainable practices, offering award-winning solutions for both consumers and retailers which reinforces its mantra Green Today, Greener Tomorrow.

Contact details

Website: www.southerntrident.com

Facebook: Coco & Coir

Instagram: cocoandcoir

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

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

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

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

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

Hundreds of customer votes for The Greatest Christmas Garden Centre Team have already been made and with 5 more weeks of voting there's plenty of opportunity for more centres to ask for the support of your customers.

So far, after only 10 days of voting the front runners are: Bosworths, Cooks, Ferndale, Gates and Planters Tamworth.  Votes have also already been submitted for Blue Diamond East Bridgeford, BGC Burford House, Bosworths Elton Hall, Goulds, Gordale, Jackson’s Boutique Garden Centre, Planters Bretby Tong, Wentworth Garden Centre and Woburn Sands Emporium.

To add your Christmas Team into the competition, whihc will have regional winners  as well as an overall custoer voiting winer, all you have to do is print off the poster, as above, that can be accessed via this link: GTN Greatest Christmas Awards Voting Poster, display them in store, add a link to your social media pages or website where you can put the voting link or the QR code as below and let the voting begin.

It’s as simple as that.  Voting is open now and will remain open until 4:00pm on December 21^st.

Here is the link to the on-line voting page: GTN Greatest Christmas Awards On-Line Voting Link

Here is a link to the poster artwork: GTN Greatest Christmas Awards Voting Poster

Here is a link to the Voting QR code: GTN Greatest Christmas Awards Voting QR code

Voting is free, but we are partnering with The Greenfingers Charity so that voters can, if they wish, make a Christmas donation to help build more magical gardens in Children's Hospices across the country.

If you have any questions please contact: trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk

The GTN Xtra team visited Bosworths at Burton Latimer at the weekend to see how they were generating votes in store.  See our gallery of pictures below.

Our team of judges have started the wonderful task of visiting the 100 garden centres who have been nominated for GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards 2023.  And our sponsors have been lining up prizes of stock or hotel accommodation for the category winners.

Here are the categories for GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards 2023

• The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team
• The Greatest Christmas Tree and Outdoor Plant Team
• The Greatest Christmas BBQ and Outdoor Leisure Team – The Solex Sizzle
• The Greatest Christmas Wild Bird Care & Pet Team
• The Greatest Christmas Marketing Team
• The Greatest Christmas Community Event
• The Greatest Festive Gardening Gifts Team
• The Greatest Festive Retail Food Hall Team
• The Greatest Festive Garden Centre Catering Team
• The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Video
• The Greatest Garden Centre Grotto Team
• The Greatest Group Small Garden Centre Christmas Team*
• The Greatest Group Large Garden Centre Christmas Team*
• The Greatest Small Garden Centre Christmas Team
• The Greatest Mid-Sized Garden Centre Christmas Team
• The Greatest Large Garden Centre Christmas Team

*The Group Garden Centre awards are for centres that are part of groups with 5 or more centres

Judging visits will take place during November and December with the winners being announced on The Stage at Spring Fair on Monday 5^th February 2024.

As well as the kudos and fame from winning a Greatest Christmas award, our Gold winners in each category will win prizes including stock, services or hotel accommodation from our sponsors, which at time of going to press include:

• AMES
• Garden Radio
• Glee 2024
• Kaemingk
• LeisureGrow - NOMA
• PATS 2024
• Smart Garden Products – Three Kings
• Solex 2024
• Stars for Europe
• Woodmansterne

Watch out for details of the prizes on offer in issues of GTN Xtra: www.gardentradenews.co.uk and in the next issue of GTN.

What the judges will be looking for when they visit:

As GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards firstly recognise the amazing teamwork involved in garden centre Christmas retailing excellence we asked our judges what specific things they will be looking for in each Christmas Awards category this year:

• The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team
  • Christmas theming of the displays, link sales and plants as Christmas presents 
• The Greatest Christmas Tree and Outdoor Plant Team
  • Extending the Christmas experience out into the Planteria, not only making the sale of cut trees fun and different but what is being done to promote link sales to trees as well as plants as presents. 
• The Greatest Christmas BBQ and Outdoor Leisure Team – The Solex Sizzle
  • Effort (and success) being put to inspiring  sales of BBQ’s, firepits, furniture, arbours and leisure items normally associated with summer rather than Christmas
• The Greatest Christmas Wild Bird Care & Pet Team
  • From a gondola end of Christmas pet treats to a whole department dedicated to wild bird care or pets of all shapes and sizes. The festive feeling generated by the team, from their attitude for sales to their inspirational displays.  Who has been bold enough to include a pet or wild bird care display in the main Christmas area?
• The Greatest Christmas Marketing Team
  • On and off centre Christmas marketing activity: advertising, p.o.s. video, social media, influencer promotions. We are looking for originality, execution and sucess.
• The Greatest Christmas Community Event
  • A one off ‘launch’ or an ongoing feature – for example a zoo, woodland walk, colouring competition, cookery demonstration or a charity fundraiser that engages the community and extends the Christmas experience.
• The Greatest Festive Gardening Gifts Team
  • This is all about creating sales at this time of year through inspirational use/display/promotion of regular gardening tools and sundries items in a festive setting /department which are capturing sales to both new annd experienced gardeners.
• The Greatest Festive Retail Food Hall Team
  • Food Hall, Farm Shop or just a department in the retail area. Looking for seasonal lines, offers and services to build unit sales as well as dressing of the area. What is special to your Garden Centre offer over other food retailers?
• The Greatest Festive Garden Centre Catering Team
  • What have you done to make your restaurant or coffee shop a part of the Christmas experience? Looking for dressing of the seating area, servery, menu, special offers, link sales, promotions and of course, Festive staff!
• The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Video
  • Simply a Christmas promotional video that creates garden centre visits and sales.
• The Greatest Garden Centre Grotto Team
  • What have the team done this season to create a really memorable and enjoyable experience.
• The Greatest Group Small Garden Centre Christmas Team*
• The Greatest Group Large Garden Centre Christmas Team*
• The Greatest Small Garden Centre Christmas Team
• The Greatest Mid-Sized Garden Centre Christmas Team
• The Greatest Large Garden Centre Christmas Team
  • For all of the overall team awards the judges are looking for happy, festive garden centre teams who can keep their Christmas retailing standards at their best throughout the Christmas sales period. 

By popular demand we have brought back Customer Voting for The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas teams, after all it is what customers think that is most important. See the details here

The first Greatest Christmas Awards Team visit the judges carried out this year was at British Garden Centres Woodthorpe, back in August.  See our gallery of pictures below: