British Garden Centres has announced the successful acquisition of Ferndale Garden Centre in North Derbyshire. The centre officially joined the group in early January and will now trade as Dronfield Garden Centre, bringing the group’s total number of sites to 74 and marking another significant step in the company’s ambitious growth across the UK.
Ferndale Garden Centre has been a cherished part of the Sheffield and North Derbyshire community for decades, first established in 1982. Operated by Neil and Linda Grant, and Helen Watson, the centre earned a strong reputation for high-quality plants, expert gardening advice, and friendly service. Known for its passionate team, impressive horticultural knowledge, and product offerings, as well as its popular coffee shop, Ferndale is a go-to destination for gardeners across South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire. Following the owners’ retirement, British Garden Centres is proud to continue their legacy and ensure the site remains at the heart of the local gardening community.
Neil Grant, Managing Director of Ferndale Garden Centre, said: “After many rewarding years building Ferndale into a thriving local hub for gardeners, Linda, Helen, and I are excited to see it join the British Garden Centres family. We have every confidence that Charles and the team will nurture the community spirit and take it to new heights as Dronfield Garden Centre.”
Charles Stubbs, Founder and Director of British Garden Centres, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the Ferndale Dronfield Garden Centre team into the British Garden Centres family. Ferndale has long been admired for its quality and community values that align perfectly with our own. We are excited that the Ferndale team will continue delivering the same excellent and even better service, plants, and products customers love. We look forward to investing in the site, supporting the team, and continuing to offer customers a truly outstanding garden centre experience.”
Neil will also continue to play an active role in the wider garden industry through his work as HTA Board Director and as Chair of the HTA Retail Committee, and will also remain a familiar voice to listeners in the Yorkshire region with his regular gardening slot on BBC Radio Sheffield, Leeds and York.
2025 was a year of expansion for British Garden Centres, highlighted by the acquisition of key sites, including former Dobbies sites (Shinfield, Gosforth, Heighley Gate, Rugby, Havant, Northampton, and Gloucester), as well as Hayes Garden World, alongside significant reinvestments in its existing operations.
The addition of Ferndale Garden Centre as Dronfield Garden Centre strengthens the group’s presence in Yorkshire and reinforces its position as the UK’s largest family-run garden centre group. British Garden Centres plans to enhance facilities in the coming months to make the centre even more enjoyable for new and returning customers.
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Last call for In-store collected Christmas Awards votes to be sent in
Counting has started of the thousands of customer votes collected in store and posted into the GTN offices for GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards.
Any Garden Centre that collected votes in-store should urgently pop them in the post as the final count will take place this weekend when those votes will be added to the on-line votes for the winners to be decided.
Counting has started of the thousands of customer votes collected in store and posted into the GTN offices for GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards.
Any Garden Centre that collected votes in-store should urgently pop them in the post as the final count will take place this weekend when those votes will be added to the on-line votes for the winners to be decided.
The votes should be sent to:
GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards
Potting Shed Press, Dairy House, Dairy Drove, Thorney, Peterborough. PE6 0TX.
As of today here are the Top 100 voted for Christmas Garden Centre teams, in A-Z order:
GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards 2025.
Customer voted Top 100 Christmas Garden centre Teams – A-Z
- Albrighton BGC
- Arcadia BGC
- Astbury Meadow Klondyke
- Aylsham Garden Centre
- Bents
- Beverley Klondyke
- Birkacre
- Blackdown Blue Diamond
- Blofield Garden Centre at Norwich Camping & Leisure
- Bold Heath BGC
- Botany Bay Garden Centre
- Bow Garden and Aquatic Centre
- Braintree BGC
- Bridgnorth BGC
- Brockworth BGC
- Brookside Klondyke
- Burford House BGC
- Burnside Klondyke
- Byrkley Park Klondyke
- Cambridge Home & Garden
- Chacewater Garden Centre
- Charlecote BGC
- Chessington Garden Centre
- Chiltern View Garden Centre
- Chilton BGC
- Conkers Garden Centre
- Daleside Klondyke
- Dobbies Ashford
- East Durham BGC
- Fakenham Garden Centre
- Fron Goch
- Garden King
- Gardenwise Klondyke
- Garforth Klondyke
- Glendoick Garden Centre
- Gloucester BGC
- Gouldings Valley View
- Haddenham Garden Centre
- Harrogate BGC
- Hatton BGC
- Hayes BGC
- Henry Street Garden Centre
- High Legh Klondyke
- Hillmount Bangor
- Hillmount Belfast
- Hillmount Carrickfergus
- Hillmount Newtownards
- Houghton Hall Klondyke
- Keydell Nurseries
- Kirktown Garden Centre
- Lady Green Klondyke
- Langlands BGC
- Livingston Klondyke
- Longacres Bagshot
- Louth BGC
- Mains of Drum
- Mayfield Klondyke
- Meadow Croft
- Monkton Elm
- Moulton Nurseries Garden Centre & Coffee Shop
- Munros
- Newquay Garden Centre
- Newton Regis BGC
- Northampton BGC
- Notcutts Oxford
- Notcutts Rivendell
- Old Railway Line
- Old Well Garden Centre
- Owl Lane Farm Nurseries
- Parker’s Garden Centre
- Pennells Lincoln
- Perrywood Buckhatch
- Perrywood Sudbury
- Perrywood Tiptree
- Planters Bretby
- Planters Tamworth
- Polmont Klondyke
- Ransoms Jersey
- Rowena Leicester
- Rugby BGC
- Sapcote Garden Centre
- Simpsons Inverness
- Snowdonia Nurseries
- Squires Badshot Lea
- Squires Twickenham
- Strikes Stokesley
- Stringers Klondyke
- Summerhill Garden Centre
- Swarkestone Nursery & Garden Centre
- Thatcham BGC
- Trevena Cross Nurseries
- Trevisker Garden Centre
- Trioscape Garden Centre
- Trowell Garden Centre
- Upcountry Stone Cross Garden Centre
- Wilmslow Klondyke
- Wolseley Bridge BGC
- Wolvercroft Garden Centre
- Woodbank Garden Centre
- Woodthorpe BGC
The winners of the customer voted award and the winners of the judges visit awards will be announced at 1:00pm on Monday 2nd February 2026 in the Glee@Spring Fair area of Spring Fair at the NEC. We look forward to seeing you there.
The votes should be sent to:
GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards
Potting Shed Press, Dairy House, Dairy Drove, Thorney, Peterborough. PE6 0TX.
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Floralsilk will unveil its brand-new 2026 Christmas Collection this month at the Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair (11-14 January 2026).
The 2026 range is Floralsilk’s largest Christmas launch to date, introducing over 1,500 new products across six carefully curated decorating themes. Designed with both visual impact and commercial performance in mind, the collection includes standout tree skirts, luxury Autumn/Winter bouquets, statement wreaths and garlands, advent décor, new ribbons and bows, and an extensive selection of tree decorations.
 
With more than 45 years of expertise in lifelike faux flowers, foliage and seasonal décor, Floralsilk continues to support garden centres in creating show-stopping, trend-led displays that captivate consumers and maximise seasonal sales.
Garden centre buyers are invited to experience the full 2026 Christmas Collection at the Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair in Hall B, Stands B2, B7 and B9, or alternatively to book a dedicated appointment at the Floralsilk showroom in Bourne, PE10 0BQ.
www.floralsilk.co.uk/trade
sales@floralsilk.co.uk
01778 425 205
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A whole NEW world from Smart Garden
GTN Xtra Promotion
Christmas is Smart Garden’s fastest growing category and in 2026 the company is launching more products than ever before – over 1,000 new lines including Autumn and Halloween!
Christmas is Smart Garden’s fastest growing category and in 2026 we are launching more products than ever before – over 1,000 new lines including Autumn and Halloween!
Building on the success of previous years, you can expect to find extensions to many of your favourite Three Kings ranges as well as completely new collections.
The latest Gonks & Plush Figurines bring unprecedented levels of cuteness and fun to the Christmas party. Roll up, roll up and watch our adorable Circus Lions and Elephants steal the show! Or, take a deep dive into the “ChristmaSea” collection of Crayfish, Crabs and Octopus… each with their own unique personalities! And that’s just for starters…
There are plenty of additions to discover across Inlit Décor, Lanterns, SnowScenes and Whimscapes. From scene-stealing “Titan” lighting pieces to quirky Christmas village collectibles set in telephone boxes, rockets and ships, we have really pushed the boat out – in more ways than one!
And as if that’s not enough to get you excited, we are introducing a completely new range of Low Voltage String Lights, including Tree Lights, Clusters and Icicles in all the most popular colours and lengths. We are confident that the distinctive packaging along with uber-competitive pricing will help maximise sales in this key category.
Alongside our festive endeavours, we are responding to a burgeoning Halloween market by unleashing lots of family-friendly products plus a new foray into “Super Scary” characters – it’s quite a Boonanza! Autumn gets a boost as well, with a wealth of new designs and colours for even stronger in-store impact – all offering unbeleafable value!
Along with a Christmas Pet collection, the Smart seasonal offers have never look so good, so please come and visit us at out Peterborough showrooms where you can be assured of a warm welcome.
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New chairman of LOFA as Steve Millington steps down
Steve Millington, Sales Director at Tom Chambers, has decided to step down from his role as LOFA Chairman following an unexpected health issue. Taking over will be Vice Chairman Alwyn Williams, Sales and Customer Service Operations Manager at Zest Outdoor Living...
Steve Millington, Sales Director at Tom Chambers, has decided to step down from his role as LOFA Chairman following an unexpected health issue.
Over the last two years, Steve has driven meaningful developments within the organisation, including boosting member benefits and strengthening support for the association’s work.
While Steve’s tenure was set to continue for another year, his doctors have advised that his health must now take precedence. LOFA respects this decision wholeheartedly and thanks him profoundly for the unwavering commitment and leadership he has shown.
Taking over as Chairman will be Vice Chairman Alwyn Williams, who holds the role of Sales and Customer Service Operations Manager at Zest Outdoor Living. Having collaborated closely with Steve during his leadership, Alwyn brings deep insight, steadiness, and a thoughtful strategy to this key position.
General Manager Gina Hinde commented:
“Steve was an excellent chairman – his enthusiasm for the industry and vison for progress were unmatched. He will be missed however, I’m also looking forward to working alongside Alwyn in his new capacity. His sound judgement and comprehensive knowledge of the sector mean he is perfectly placed to lead LOFA towards continued success in the year ahead.”
Alwyn commented:
“We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to Steve on behalf of LOFA. His outstanding service and dedication to this association have been truly inspiring. We wish him all the very best for his health and future well-being.”
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AllerJanuary is a national awareness campaign led by Julian Edwards of Allergen Accreditation, encouraging food businesses to pause, reflect, and strengthen their approach to allergen management. With Food Hypersensitive (FHS) customers continuing to grow in number and influence, having clear, robust allergen systems in place is now essential for safety, trust, and commercial success.
To support AllerJanuary and beyond, Food Allergy Aware has produced a FREE AllerJanuary Round-Up Resource Pack, bringing together practical guidance, tools, and training to help embed best practice across hospitality, healthcare, education, and care settings.
What’s included in the AllerJanuary Resource Pack?
The pack is designed to be practical and usable, not theoretical. It includes:
- Allergen awareness and education tools covering the 14 allergens, hidden allergens, cross-contact, and Free From claims
- Practical coffee shop guidance, including STOP THINK best practice
- Top 10 allergen tips for kitchens and front-of-house teams
- Free webinar links covering labelling, hospital catering, coffee shop risks, and equipment insights
- Fact sheets, supplier directories, and links to allergen-aware recipes to support inclusive menu development
From Awareness to Action
Beyond awareness, the pack includes real-world implementation tools to support day-to-day operations, such as:
- Effective use of allergen matrices (and why they should never be used in isolation)
- Guidance for event catering, where risk is increased by volume and last-minute changes
- Clear advice on positive communication with FHS customers following a risk assessment
- Why asking customers to sign disclaimers is not legal, does not remove duty of care, and can seriously damage trust
- The importance of near-miss reporting to improve training and prevent incidents
- PPDS labelling best practice and managing ingredient changes over time
- An overview of digital tools and software that support accurate allergen data, menus, and labelling
These tools help businesses move from intention to action.
Upskilling Chefs: Free From Cookery Masterclass
Food Allergy Aware’s Free From Cookery Masterclass (9–10 March 2026) provides hands-on training for chefs to:
- Understand allergen risk during preparation
- Prevent cross-contact in busy kitchens
- Create inclusive menus without compromising quality or creativity
- Build confidence when catering for multiple and complex allergies
Upskilling chefs is one of the most effective ways to improve allergen safety while unlocking the commercial potential of the Free From market.
Find out more:
https://foodallergyaware.co.uk/events/free-from-cookery-masterclass/
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 B&Q will be the featured retail team at the forthcoming GIMA Buyer Connect event, taking place on Tuesday 24th February 2026. This exclusive session is open only to GIMA members.
Hosted at B&Q’s Head Office in Eastleigh, the meeting marks the second in a planned series of Buyer Connect sessions for 2026. Designed to strengthen supplier–retailer partnerships, these events provide GIMA members with direct access to senior buying teams, enabling meaningful dialogue, new commercial pathways, and accelerated growth.
Sustainability is a core focus of this Buyer Connect, with a spokesperson for B&Q outlining its current objectives by saying: “We want to make sustainable choices easier for our customers, helping them to create healthier, more sustainable homes. We’re building on our heritage of looking after people and our planet. We were a founding member of the Forest Stewardship Council 30 years ago and we’ve led the industry when it comes to peat-free compost, removing harmful chemicals and developing low VOC water-based paints.”
Aligned with this ambition, B&Q is inviting innovative, sustainability-led product concepts and new category proposals. The retailer is particularly interested in hearing from GIMA members whose ranges support customers to make responsible home and garden improvements. Both stocked and dropship propositions will be reviewed.
GIMA Membership Ambassador, Tony Kersey, commented: “We remain committed to delivering a comprehensive programme of ‘Meet the Buyer’ events – and they do not come bigger than this opportunity with B&Q. This is an exceptional chance for members to open discussions, present their product innovations, and engage with a retailer that places sustainability at the heart of its strategy. With dropshipping also under review, the potential routes to market are broader than ever.”
How to participate
Exclusive to GIMA members – each approved supplier will be allocated a dedicated 25-minute meeting with the B&Q buying team. Additional appointments may be arranged for multi-category suppliers.
- Attendance - maximum of two representatives per company.
- Cost - free of charge to GIMA members.
- Application deadline - Friday 16th January 2026. Interested members should complete the official application form and submit it to info@gima.org.uk. Separate applications are required where multiple product categories apply.
- B&Q approval - all submissions are subject to review and confirmation by the B&Q team. Meeting times will be confirmed by GIMA once selections have been finalised.
Find out more
For further information or to register interest, please visit the GIMA events calendar at gima.org.uk or contact the team at info@gima.org.uk
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AIPH has revealed the three Finalists for the Young International Grower of the Year Award, spotlighting exceptional young professionals who are redefining what leadership looks like in modern ornamental horticulture. Spanning nursery production, floriculture, and high-tech greenhouse systems, the Finalists reflect the innovation and ambition shaping the next chapter of the industry.
Part of the prestigious International Gower of the Year Awards organised by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), this Award celebrates the next generation of horticultural leaders. Candidates were members of Jungle Talks’ Floriculture Pro Manager Mastercourse, which connects the next generation with current industry leaders.
This year’s Finalists represent the breadth and strength of the global industry, working across nursery production, floriculture, and high-tech greenhouse systems.
The 2026 Finalists are:
Tatiana de German Ribon
Chief Executive Officer, Flores La Conchita — Colombia
Tatiana is Chief Executive Officer of Flores La Conchita, where she directs company strategy across production, logistics, sustainability, sales, and international market development. With more than a decade of international leadership experience, she has guided the business through growth in highly competitive global markets.
Her work includes embedding sustainable practices, building strategic international partnerships, and enhancing brand competitiveness in key flower markets. Tatiana’s career combines executive leadership with public-sector and advisory experience, reflecting a broad, strategic approach to horticultural business development and industry engagement.
Cauê Gomes Fogagnoli
Technical Director and Partner, Sítio Kolibri — Brazil
Starting his career with Sítio Kolibri in Brazil as an intern, Cauê has been central to the transformation of the company into a high-tech greenhouse business producing around 50,000 plants per week.
His work focuses on climate control, automation, fertigation, and data-driven decision-making, integrating advanced systems to improve efficiency, consistency, and sustainability. Cauê brings international experience from the USA and places strong emphasis on people development, teamwork, and continuous learning. He has also contributed to innovations that previously earned Sítio Kolibri recognition in the Sustainability category of the AIPH International Grower of the Year Awards in 2022.
Henil Vashi
Horticultural Advisor, Robin Tacchi Plants — United Kingdom
At Robin Tacchi Plants, Henil Vashi advises on large-scale ornamental plant production across multiple nursery sites, overseeing more than one million plants annually. His role spans crop production, propagation, and detailed crop monitoring, with a strong focus on integrated pest management, biosecurity, and staff development.
Henil has played a key role in advancing sustainable production practices, including the successful introduction of peat-reduced and peat-free growing substrates, achieving a 30% reduction in peat use while improving crop quality. With an academic background in plant genetics and crop improvement, he brings scientific rigour to practical nursery operations and is actively involved in mentoring teams and promoting innovation across the business.
The winner of the Young International Grower of the Year Award will be announced on 27th January 2026 at the IGOTY Awards Ceremony, which brings together growers, industry leaders, and partners from across the global horticultural community to celebrate excellence in ornamental plant production.
Registration is now open
Registration is open for the Awards Ceremony, which will be held at IPM Essen, Germany. The ceremony promises not only to recognise horticultural excellence, but to bring together industry peers, sponsors, and media partners for a night of networking, innovation, and inspiration. Attendance is free but spaces are limited, with priority given to finalists, sponsors, and media partners. AIPH encourages interested parties to register for tickets soon to secure their place at this prestigious event.
Further details and registration information are available via the AIPH website.
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Save the date: January 27 to 30, 2026. The world’s leading trade fair for horticulture will once again take place at Messe Essen, Germany.
The Commercial Horticultural Association (CHA) are delighted to have helped some of our prominent members to exhibit at the forthcoming IPM Essen show. We are looking forward to seeing new products this year and helping these companies to secure export orders.
IPM uniquely offers plant diversity and many plant innovations from all over the world. Over 1,400 exhibitors from 45 nations will present groundbreaking innovations and trends in plants, technology, floristry and garden features.
The organisers cordially invite buyers and growers to this remarkable event, so that they can join the global horticulture community shaping the future of the industry.
On behalf of Messe Essen the CHA has issued the following online code for a free entry to the IPM ESSEN 2026: 1XL84
This code can be used four times per member company and can be redeemed in the ticket shop Tickets | IPM ESSEN for free day tickets.
CHA hosted UK companies in Hall 7 A28/A29 include:
Air-Pot®
7A28.7
www.air-pot.com
Air-Pot 7 containers are the latest iteration of the original and the most advanced reusable air-pruning system. Made of recycled plastic they come in a range of sizes, for growing anything - from seed to the largest trees. With a guarantee of fantastic roots, faster growth and bigger yields, Air-Pot containers are used all over the world, in all climates, for all species of plant. Independent trials have shown that Air-Pot grown trees grow up to 75% faster than trees in the open field. The containers are toughly made and are reusable many times even in tropical sunlight.
Commercial Horticultural Association
7A29.2
www.cha-hort.com
CHA is the British trade association for producers and suppliers of plants, produce and services. The CHA helps UK suppliers to export, facilitates trade links between UK suppliers and growers, wholesalers and retailers worldwide and lobbies government for export funding and support.
The CHA team can advise visitors who would like to discover more about the UK market, CHA member companies or how to get involved.
David Austin Roses
7A28.5
www.davidaustinroses.co.uk
David Austin Roses was founded in 1961 by David C.H. Austin, a visionary plantsman. The company set out to unite the beauty and fragrance of Old Roses with the resilience and diversity of modern hybrids. The result was the English Rose, admired for its charm, fragrance and enduring performance. From its Shropshire nursery, the Austin family continues this legacy, blending tradition with innovation to create roses that inspire gardens worldwide.
Fothergill's
7A28.4
www.mr-fothergills.co.uk
Let Fothergill’s show you how you can increase seed packet sales. Their strength lies in identifying the needs of different customer segments and presenting customers with solutions that meet their goals.
From easy-to-grow vegetables for the inexperienced gardener, to mouth-watering herbs for chefs, to flowers that make stunning cut arrangements, they help you generate additional revenue while satisfying your customers’ requirements.
Garden Centre Design Consultancy – C Long Design Studios
7A29.1
www.gardencentredesign.com
C Long Design Studios are specialist consultants to the garden centre sector, offering a range of services including site development, strategy, master planning, planning applications and negotiations, retail and interior design, architecture, project management and retail/business consultancy. The company’s teams work on projects throughout the EU, UK and USA ranging from feasibility studies to full site development.
NP Structures Ltd
7A28.2
www.northernpolytunnels.co.uk
NP Structures design and install high performance structures in Lancashire, UK. Whether for large scale crops or small gardens, every structure is built to the same exacting standard.
Pinnacle Plants International
7A28.8
www.pinnacleplantsinternational.com
Displaying young plant and tissue culture as well as showcasing their breeders’ agency, promoting new genetics.
PPC Labels
7A28.6
www.ppclabels.co.uk
PPC Labels specialises in custom design labels & tags, packaging, and point of sale material. Clients include supermarkets, garden centres, growers and packers.
The Guernsey Clematis Nursery Ltd, Raymond Evison Clematis
7A28.1
www.guernsey-clematis.co.uk
www.raymondevisonclematis.com
The Guernsey Clematis Nursery, Raymond Evison Clematis are thrilled once again to be exhibiting at IPM with two new clematis introductions bred by the world-renowned clematis breeder Raymond J Evison. The first is Clematis Eliza™ EviGsy158(PBR), the eighth introduction from their recent breeding programme. The ninth introduction, also being exhibited at IPM is Clematis Queens Nurse™ EviGsy159(PBR). These two new clematis have the improved Guernsey genetic flower power, long-lasting blooms and reliable repeat flowering from base to tip. Easy to grow and maintain. Modern clematis at their best.
Tyne Moulds & Machinery Co Ltd
7A28.3
www.tynemoulds.com
Horticultural labels, tree ties and sundries for the wholesale market.
More visitor information can be found on the IPM Essen website: The world’s leading trade fair for horticulture | IPM ESSEN
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Registrations open for AIPH Meeting Sydney 2026
Registrations are now open for the AIPH Meeting Sydney 2026, bringing together members of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), industry leaders, organisers of AIPH-Approved Horticultural Expos, city stakeholders, and strategic partners from around the world...
Registrations are now open for the AIPH Meeting Sydney 2026, bringing together members of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), industry leaders, organisers of AIPH-Approved Horticultural Expos, city stakeholders, and strategic partners from around the world.
Taking place from 8 to 12 March 2026 in Sydney, Australia, the event will offer unique insights into the current challenges and opportunities for the global industry and provide in-depth knowledge of Australia’s ornamental horticulture sector. All with an interest in the industry are invited to attend.
The AIPH Meeting combines the AIPH International Horticultural Expo Conference, the AIPH Horticultural Industry Conference, and a programme of professional visits and industry tours. Together, these elements provide a platform for international dialogue on the most pressing challenges and opportunities shaping ornamental horticulture today — including climate pressure, resource constraints, biosecurity, changing markets, alongside the planning and delivery of international horticultural Expos.
The event is organised by AIPH in collaboration with Greenlife Industry Australia, AIPH’s member in Australia, and with the support of Headline Sponsor Biblo.
AIPH International Horticultural Expo Conference – 9 March
The AIPH International Horticultural Expo Conference provides a unique platform, bringing together organisers of AIPH-approved International Horticultural Expos to report on progress, exchange learning, and engage directly with peers and AIPH leadership. The Conference will include updates on the much-anticipated Green Expo 2027 Yokohama in Japan, Expo 2029 Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima) in Thailand, and Expo 2031 Minnesota in the USA.
AIPH Horticultural Industry Conference – 10 March
The AIPH Horticultural Industry Conference will bring together growers, suppliers, researchers and industry leaders from across the global horticultural sector to explore two defining forces reshaping the industry: a rapidly changing climate and an increasingly dynamic marketplace.
Drawing on international experience and real-world examples, the Conference will focus on practical approaches and innovations that are helping horticultural businesses adapt, remain competitive, and plan for the future. The programme is designed to be relevant to both AIPH members and the wider global industry, offering insight that reflects current operational realities across regions.
Professional visits and industry tours – 11-12 March
A programme of professional visits and industry tours will complement the Meeting, showcasing the diversity and innovation of Australian horticulture whilst supporting peer-to-peer learning between international delegates and local industry. The programme will include a visit to the Blue Mountains, providing insight into horticultural practice within a distinctive landscape shaped by environmental stewardship, biodiversity, and regional expertise.
The AIPH Meeting Sydney 2026 provides an important platform for delegates to gain international insight, strengthen professional networks, share best practice, and engage in constructive discussion on the future of ornamental horticulture worldwide.
Early bird registration discounts are available until 25 January 2026. Delegates may register for the full Congress or select individual sessions, with flexible options designed to suit different schedules. AIPH has also arranged a special hotel rate for delegates at Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection.
For more information and to register, visit the AIPH Website.
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The best of last week's
If you missed last week's GTN Xtra, below are the most-read stories...
Read the top garden industry stories of 2025 in GTN magazine and GTN Xtra
2025 was a memorable year for the UK garden centre industry. Take a look back at all the major stories through the eyes of GTN as we reproduce all the 2025 issues of GTN (see below) where, with just one click, you can gain access to the page-turning editions and also the Top 100 most read stories in GTN Xtra....
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GTN Xtra continues to be a prime source of news
GTN Xtra continues to be a prime source of ‘what’s happening in the garden industry’ with garden retailing professionals seeking the latest news from our popular weekly e-newsletter. Here are some of the stats that back up GTN Xtra’s importance within the trade...
GTN Xtra continues to be a prime source of ‘what’s happening in the garden industry’ with garden retailing professionals seeking the latest news from our popular weekly e-newsletter. Here are some of the stats that back up GTN Xtra’s importance within the trade:
- GTN Xtra has been opened 973,601 times in 2025, up 49% on 2024.
- 2,585 regular subscriber readers have been joined by 436,273 unique readers who have accessed GTN Xtra via our web address: www.gardentradenews.co.uk
- So in 2025 we've had a total of 438,858 unique readers, up 222% on 2024.
- Readers have viewed 1,828,569 pages of GTN Xtra, up 14%, that's almost 2 million opportunities for our advertisers messages to be seen.
Thank you to all our readers and for all the support we've had from advertisers.
We wish you all a Happy and prosperous New Year as we look forward to keeping you updated with all the latest news and developments and great retailing ideas in 2026.
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GTN December 2024/January 2025 - Sustainability Directory. In this issue:
Exclusive interview with the Mercer family of Hillmount Garden Centres in Belfast , GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards – all the centres have now been visited – winners will be announced at Spring Fair on Monday 3rd February at 5:00p on The Stage, Spring Fair 2025 Preview, GTN’s Sustainability Directory for 2025, GIMA Awards Sustainability champions, Woodmansterne, ground-breaking environmental credentials, GCA Westland Rising Stars eco-friendly projects, Sustainability with what you already have, Webb eco – where power meets eco-friendliness, Sustainability Directory pages , Glam up your greens, UK Greetings, our world means the world to us, Success with Peat Free gardening, Thetford Garden Centre – now a B Corp, Tildenet’s huge range of sustainable and recycled products, Planteria – 2025 is the Year of the Begonia and the Pea, Let’s keep talking - HTA Viewpoint, A year of running – a big thank you from Kate Ebbens who ran every day in 2024 and raised over £30,000 for the Greenfingers Charity, 2025: friend or foe? - GIMA Viewpoint.
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GTN February 2025. GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards Special issue: Christmas Greatness Awarded at Spring Fair, Retailing at its best – GCA Conference Awards, Forging ahead with UK Firepits, Christmas through the eyes of a Greatest Awards judge, Greatest Christmas Award Winners including: Birkacre, Gates, Brigg, Cook’s, Munro’s, Coolings, Monkton Elm, Pugh’s, Alton, Duchy of Cornwall Nursery, Newquay, Harrogate, Webbs, Ruxley Manor, Polhill, Studley, Perrywood, Baytree, Notcutts Solihull, Wolesely Bridge, Albrighton, Glendoick, Garsons, Castle Gardens, Wentworth, Old Railway Line, Arcadia, Newbridge, Gouldings, Poundbury, Bents, Rivendell, Sanders and many more, Moments of Christmas Brilliance, 10 years at Greenfingers for Linda Petrons, New Plants Galore at IPM Essen, Politics doesn’t matter – EHG Column, Focus for 2025 – HTA Column, Adapting to changing climates – LOFA Column, A year of reset and growth? – GIMA Column.
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GTN March 2025. In this issue: New greetings cards and gift packaging from Woodmansterne, Aylsham Garden Centre interview – From Covid auction sale to £5m turnover, Brewing up a quality coffee with Clifton Coffee, Spreading the message – News and new products from The Garden Press Event, Elevating seeds at retail, Growing opportunities with Vitavia, Retail Detail from IPM Essen, New beginnings for Dobbies closed centres, Promising Fragrance – GTN Planteria, Strengthening national reach – HTA Viewpoint.
 
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GTN April 2025. In this issue: The war for talent – More People on how to secure the best candidates, Backing the brand – RHS Licensed products maximise sales, Country Forge – RHS-endorsed from Tildenet, Bramblecrest blossoms with the RHS, Stars come out for Blue Diamond, Plan ahead for spoga+gafa 2025, New beginnings for centres part 2, Best foot forward for Greenfingers – Garden Re-Leaf Day 2025, Floral farewell – GTN interview’s Stuart Lowen, Bedding and seasonal bonanza - GTN Planteria, Addressing misconceptions about SOLEX – LOFA Viewpoint, Boosting business development - HTA Viewpoint, Sunshine, sales and supply – GIMA Viewpoint.
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 GTN May 2025 - Summer Showrooms Directory Issue. In this issue: David Robinson CEO of Dobbies Garden Centres – GTN Interview, Find your happy place at SOLEX 2025, It’s all about quality at Melcourt Industries, Keeping retail fresh at Glee 2025, Diary dates for inspiration from Sumer Shows, Glee’s Roadshow visits the West Country, GTN’s 2025 Summer Showroom Directory, Welcome to the Floralsilk showroom, Westland’s showroom is open, Smart Showroom visits on the increase, Spotlight on trees and shrubs – GTN Planteria, Is planning broken? – Paul Pleydell Viewpoint, Sunshine & Shows - HTA Viewpoint.
GTN May 2025 link
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GTN June/July 2025 - SOLEX Preview Issue.
In this issue: New online garden centre - GTN exclusive, Kaemingk showroom visit for Spring Summer 2026, Industry-wide help for peat-free growing advice, RHS Chelsea Flower Show inspiration and winners, GTN’s SOLEX 2025 Preview, Exhibitor plan and listing, Welcome to SOLEX 2025, Afterparty, awards and events, Bramblecrest at 25, Pages of SOLEX exhibitor news, HEX Living luxury, GIMA golf day 2025, GARDENA makes watering easy, Westland’s Rising Stars, Introducing the Greatest Food & Drink Awards at Glee, Food @ Glee, Catering investments at Monkton Elm, Planteria - Roses of Success, EHG Viewpoint - It's good to talk, HTA Viewpoint - Spring achievements, GIMA Viewpoint - Breaking records.
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 GTN September 2025 – Bumper Glee Preview. In this issue: Westland Glee Preview Special, GTN’s Exclusive Interview with Alan Roper, AMES are back on track for 2026, Art in bone china from Museums & Galleries, Zest have awards winning flexibility, Vitavia are the smart choice, GTN’s 34 page Glee 2025 Show preview: Glee floor plan and where to meet Team GTN, What’s on at Glee 2025, Glee Exhibitor News – Latest products and services, Floral Thursday FUNdraising at Glee, Hozelock’s Solar Select watering system, Fandango Fire Tools light up Glee, GTN Planteria – Inspiration from Ball, PATS 2025, Are you up for change? Paul Pleydell viewpoint, HTA Viewpoint – Getting out and about, GIMA Viewpoint – The perfect time to reconnect.
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GTN October 2025 - In this issue: RocketGro celebrate 5 years, GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards 2025 are launched, Successful Choices – Choice Marketing Conference report, Greeting cards and gift packaging in full bloom, Glee 2025 Review starts here, GTN’s Greatest Food & Drink Awards at Glee 2025, Floral Thursday at Glee sets new records for Greenfingers, Glee 2025 New Product Award winners, T&M – Investing in Retail, Greenfingers Garden Openings, The Big Christmas Show kicks off Christmas promotions, Christmas Tree advice from the British Christmas Tree Growers Association, Begonias turning heads and changing minds – GTN Planteria, Horticulture highlights from The Conference 2025, Your business values and your people – HTA Viewpoint.
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GTN November - December 2025 - GIMA Awards Roll of Honour & GLEE New Products Directory
In this issue: GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards 2025 – meet the teams, Powering Retailer success in 2026 with Handy, Fordingbridge turn plants into heroes, GIMA Awards 2025 Roll of Honour, Sticky solutions for growth at Pelsis, Jagram from blueprint to bloom, GCA-Westland Rising Stars 2025, Glee New Product Showcase 2025 Directory, PATS 2025 Review, Growing together – Environmental Horticulture Group Viewpoint, Award winning plants – GTN Planteria, Caring and sharing – HTA Viewpoint , A year of growth, grit and joy – GIMA Viewpoint.
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