At Woodmansterne Publications, we believe that great relationships build great business. 

As one of the UK's leading independent publishers of premium greeting cards, we're proud not only of the beautiful products we create, but of the lasting partnerships we've built with our retail customers through exceptional service, trust and support.

People are at the heart of everything we do – from the talented artists we champion, to the retailers we work with, and the colleagues who make our business a success.

We're looking for a passionate, customer-focused Retail Development Manager who enjoys building strong relationships and helping our customers grow their businesses through excellent service and commercial insight.

What you'll bring

• A genuine passion for building strong customer relationships and delivering exceptional service.
• A proactive, positive and solutions-focused approach.
• Commercial awareness and a proven ability to grow sales and develop customer accounts.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage your own territory effectively.
• A track record of achieving sales targets while maintaining outstanding customer relationships.

What we offer

• A competitive salary with sales and target-based commission and bonus opportunities.
• Pension contributions, healthcare benefits and a fully electric company car.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment where your ideas are valued.
• The opportunity to represent one of the UK's most respected independent greeting card publishers.

If you believe that outstanding customer service starts with building genuine relationships, and you're excited by the opportunity to help retailers grow while representing a trusted and respected brand, we'd love to hear from you.

For full job description or to apply, please email marktimlett@woodmansterne.co.uk 

The application deadline is 31^st August 2026.

Woodmansterne is ready to push boundaries to lead the industry into a greener, sustainable, speedier & inspiring era. That’s why we are committed to revolutionising how we work now and in the future. Woodmansterne aims to be an inclusive organisation, committed to an active Inclusion, Diversity and Equal Opportunities Policy, which starts with our recruitment and selection process.

Notcutts, the family-owned garden centre group founded almost 130 years ago, has completed a multi-phased transformation of its original historic site in Woodbridge, Suffolk. The project represents a significant investment and Notcutts’ long-term commitment to the future of garden centre retail.

The occasion was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on 31st July, where Caroline and Andrew Notcutt, great-grandchildren of Notcutts’ founder Roger Crompton Notcutt., were joined by the local Mayor of Woodbridge, Cllr Nigel Phipps.

Notcutts has a significant history in the Suffolk town of Woodbridge, founded in 1897 where Roger Crompton Notcutt purchased land as a modest plant nursery, driven by a simple belief that plants, gardening and time outdoors was good for the body and soul. That nursery became one of the UK’s first purpose-built garden centres in 1958, pioneering the modern garden centre as a new way for people to connect with plants and gardening, and it remains on the same site today. Woodbridge continues to serve as a flagship location for the family business, including Notcutts’ national Support Office.

The multi-million-pound transformation of Notcutts’ original garden centre site has been significant. Customers at Notcutts Woodbridge will now find a bright, welcoming new entrance leading to a 250-seater restaurant, an expanded outdoor plant area with all-weather canopy, a heritage woodland nature walk, and a completely refurbished indoor retail space, now home to a new food hall, clothing, homewares and gifts, furniture, a larger houseplant area and completely new pet care department. The garden centre has grown into a full leisure destination for all ages to enjoy, relax and spend time.

The project also reflects Notcutts’ commitment to sustainability, incorporating wall, floor, and roof insulation, rainwater harvesting and solar panels ensuring this historic site is as ready for the next century as it is proud of the last.

Caroline Notcutt, Vice-Chairman, Notcutts, said: “Woodbridge holds a very special place in our family’s story, generations of local customers and colleagues have helped shape who we are today, so it is wonderful to celebrate this new chapter just ahead of our 130th anniversary next year.

“While Notcutts has evolved since 1897, our love of plants, horticultural expertise and commitment to giving customers a warm welcome remains at the heart of everything we do.  We are investing because our customers and community matter to us deeply, and we want the people of Woodbridge and Suffolk to have somewhere truly special to come and enjoy today and for generations to come.”

Nick Burrows, CEO, Notcutts, said: “Woodbridge has always been an important part of Notcutts’ story, and we are extremely proud of what we have achieved through this complete transformation. The project has been shaped around the changing needs of customers today and for future generations, offering an enhanced retail and leisure experience while staying true to our passion for plants and horticultural quality.

“Our project in Woodbridge represents Notcutts’ long-term investment strategy to keep modernising and refreshing all our 19 garden centres nationwide. As a family-owned business with a significant 130-year heritage, we are committed to sustainable growth and demonstrating our continued confidence in the garden centre sector going forwards.”

Notcutts remains a family-owned business now into its fifth generation of family ownership, operating 19 garden centres across the country, each sharing the company’s commitment to helping customers bring their gardens and homes to life. For more information, visit www.notcutts.co.uk.

The Gates team, joined by Bob Marley,  raise the Union Flag to celebrate the purchase of the freehold at Gates Woodlands Hinckley.

Following a highly successful first year of trading, the Gates family has completed the acquisition of the freehold of its Stapleton site, securing the long-term future of Gates Woodlands Hinckley.

The purchase marks a significant milestone in the company's history, providing long-term security for its 130-strong team and reinforcing the Gates family's commitment to investing in the future of the business.

Ownership of the site also creates a strong foundation for continued growth, further improvements and the ongoing development of Gates Woodlands Hinckley as one of the region's leading garden centre destinations.

With momentum continuing to build behind the GIMA Awards 2026, ticket sales have now surpassed the 95% mark, leaving just 25 tickets remaining. As excitement grows ahead of the garden industry's biggest night of celebration, GIMA is also inviting businesses to secure one of the last remaining sponsorship opportunities, with existing partners explaining exactly why they continue to invest in the event year after year.

Returning to the spectacular Celtic Manor Resort on Thursday 12th November, the GIMA Awards will once again bring together the very best of the garden industry for an evening of recognition, networking and celebration.  Behind the scenes, the event is made possible through the commitment of an exceptional group of sponsors, each choosing to align their business with an event that champions innovation, celebrates excellence and places their brand in front of the garden industry's leading decision makers.

This year's sponsors include Glee, Hozelock, MorePeople, DOFF, the Horticultural Trades Association, Vitax, Durston Garden Products, DECCO, the Leisure and Outdoor Furniture Association, Toolbank, the Garden Press Event, Deco-Pak, CM Ventures, GARDENA, Gardenex, Hornby George PR, the Garden Centre Association, APAC, Garden Trade News and Garden Radio, Gardenforum and Horticulture Week.

For businesses considering sponsorship in future years - or looking to secure one of the final opportunities still available for 2026 - GIMA believes there is no better endorsement than hearing directly from those who already support the event.

Leading the way once again is Glee, returning as Headline Sponsor.  Matthew Mein, Event Director at Glee & Autumn Fair, said: "Glee is delighted to continue as headline sponsor of the GIMA Awards. The partnership is a natural fit, with both Glee and GIMA sharing a commitment to championing innovation, recognising excellence and supporting the long-term success of the garden retail industry.

"Every year, Glee provides the platform where thousands of new products, ideas and brands are unveiled, while the GIMA Awards celebrate the very best achievements from across our sector. Together, we shine a spotlight on the businesses and individuals driving the industry forward. It's incredibly important that we continue to celebrate innovation and recognise the passion, creativity and hard work that underpins such a vibrant and resilient industry."

One of the evening's most prestigious accolades, the GCA Supplier of the Year Award, continues to be proudly sponsored by the Garden Centre Association.

Peter Burks, CEO of the Garden Centre Association, said: "The Garden Centre Association is proud to continue sponsoring the GCA Supplier of the Year Award because it recognises the businesses that consistently set the benchmark for excellence across our industry. As an award judged exclusively by garden retailers, it carries real credibility and celebrates the suppliers who continually go above and beyond for our members. Supporting the GIMA Awards is an important way for us to recognise that commitment, celebrate success and reinforce the strong partnerships that help our industry thrive."

Elsewhere, MorePeople once again returns as sponsor of the ever-popular Charity Raffle, helping to raise vital funds for Greenfingers Charity.

Andrew Fitzmaurice, Managing Director of MorePeople, said: "We've proudly sponsored the Charity Raffle for many years because it perfectly reflects what the GIMA Awards are all about - bringing the industry together to celebrate success while giving something back. It's always one of the highlights of the evening, creating plenty of fun while raising vital funds for the incredible work of Greenfingers Charity. At MorePeople, we're passionate about supporting the industries we work with, so it's a sponsorship we're delighted to continue year after year."

Martin Ward, Director of GIMA, said: "The GIMA Awards simply wouldn't be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors. Their investment allows us to deliver an event that celebrates the very best of our industry while creating valuable networking opportunities and an unforgettable experience for everyone who attends. We are hugely grateful to every business that has chosen to support this year's Awards.

"What's particularly rewarding is that so many sponsors return year after year because they genuinely see the value of being involved. Their continued support speaks volumes about the strength of the GIMA Awards and the opportunities they create to raise brand profile, build relationships and demonstrate a commitment to the garden industry."

Don't miss your chance to be part of the celebration

With just 25 tickets left to sell, the countdown to the GIMA Awards 2026 is well underway.

A limited number of sponsorship opportunities also remain for businesses looking to put their brand at the heart of the industry's biggest celebration. Whether through category sponsorship, hospitality, branding opportunities or supporting one of the evening's many highlights, sponsorship offers a unique opportunity to engage with senior decision makers, strengthen customer relationships and demonstrate your commitment to the sector.

Businesses interested in sponsoring the GIMA Awards 2026 are urged to contact the GIMA team by emailing info@gima.org.uk to find out more about the remaining opportunities.

Those yet to secure their place at the industry's biggest night of the year are also encouraged to book now to avoid disappointment. Visit https://gima.org.uk/gima-awards-2026/ now!

Miracle-Gro and the Royal Horticultural Society have announced that the vibrant Floral Fantasia Garden at RHS Garden Hyde Hall is now officially open for the 2026 season.

Building on the success of their inaugural partnership in 2025, this year’s collaboration leans deeply into a shared vision: making gardening accessible, joyful, and sustainable for everyone. Visitors can now experience a spectacular, real-world demonstration of what can be achieved using modern peat-free growing media. 

At Evergreen Garden Care, the purpose is simple: helping create greener spaces for happier and healthier lives. This partnership is a natural fit. Together with the RHS, Miracle-Gro is demonstrating not only the beauty and inspiration that gardening can bring, but also the positive impact it has on people's wellbeing, communities, and the environment.

A partnership built on shared purpose

The garden serves as both an inspiring visitor destination and a rigorous, real-world trial environment where innovative new plant varieties are evaluated under practical growing conditions.

"One of the things I love most about this partnership is that it's built on a shared purpose," says Karen Wilkinson, Marketing Director at Evergreen Garden Care.

"The RHS has an incredible role in inspiring and educating gardeners across the UK, and at Miracle-Gro we're focused on making gardening easy, rewarding, and accessible for everyone. The Floral Fantasia garden is a brilliant example of that shared ambition. It provides a beautiful destination for visitors while serving as a real-world trial environment that showcases what can be achieved using modern peat-free growing media.

"Importantly, it doesn't just inspire experienced gardeners. It helps demonstrate to new growers that great results are achievable, and that gardening can be simple, enjoyable, and hugely rewarding. For us, that's what winning together looks like."

2026 trial focus: The Snapdragon Spectacle

This year’s primary showcase is an extensive summer flower trial of Antirrhinums (Snapdragons). A firm favourite among British cut-flower growers and flower enthusiasts alike – thanks to their strong stems, long vase life, and brilliant colour palette – the trial features over 130 varieties.

These bedding pots and border snapdragons are being grown in parallel to an RHS trial, proving that sustainable, peat-free growing media delivers world-class, professional-grade results.

Michael Smith, Chairperson of the Floral Fantasia Working Group, commented: "Floral Fantasia is a unique collaboration that unites plant breeders, propagators, and growers. Miracle-Gro’s continued investment and support are absolutely vital in allowing us to keep this work alive. It gives us the resources and, crucially, the high-quality peat-free growing media required to run these extensive trials successfully.  

"We are continuing the legacy of Peter Seabrook, who passionately believed in showcasing outstanding seasonal colour to the public. With Miracle-Gro's backing, we can confidently push horticultural innovation forward, trial exciting new plant varieties, and present them in a way that is incredibly visual and helpful for everyday gardeners."  

To ensure home gardeners can replicate these stunning results, Miracle-Gro has continued to invest heavily in the quality and consistency of its peat-free range.

A key part of Miracle-Gro's contribution to this partnership is its ongoing investment in product quality. As consumer expectations evolve, gardeners want confidence that the products they choose will deliver great results.

The Floral Fantasia trials allow Miracle-Gro to demonstrate that performance in a highly visible, real-life environment. Miracle-Gro's products are also now backed by a money-back quality guarantee, as a clear statement of confidence in the range, because when gardeners achieve better results, they enjoy gardening more.

Attracting the next generation of gardeners

A core goal of the live Floral Fantasia display is to make gardening feel less intimidating and more achievable for beginners.

Ian Le Gros, Curator and Head of Site at RHS Hyde Hall, said: "We are delighted to welcome back Floral Fantasia and Miracle-Gro for another spectacular season. This partnership perfectly aligns with our mission at the RHS to demonstrate the sheer joy and accessibility of gardening.

"A major trial like this year's Snapdragon showcase, run entirely peat-free, sends a powerful, positive message. It shows our visitors that they can create vibrant, high-impact displays in their own spaces while gardening sustainably. By working together with Miracle-Gro, we are providing the practical tools and real-world inspiration that help both novice and seasoned gardeners feel confident, successful, and excited to grow."

Beyond the snapdragons, visitors can also enjoy a preview of emerging planting trends, including a striking Celosia container display. Later in the season, the Autumn Container Extravaganza will showcase further inspiration for achieving vibrant colour throughout the year, including a fiery container display of Celosia, which will be followed later in the season by the Autumn Container Extravaganza to inspire year-round colour.

The Floral Fantasia Garden is open to the public now at RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Chelmsford, Essex.  

The Greenfingers Charity is inviting supporters to lace up their running shoes and secure one of its exclusive charity places in the 2027 London Landmarks Half Marathon.

Taking place on Sunday 4th April 2027, the London Landmarks Half Marathon is one of the UK's most sought-after running events, with thousands of participants taking on the unique 13.1-mile route through the heart of the capital. The Greenfingers Charity is once again proud to be an official charity partner and is now recruiting runners to join Team Greenfingers.

Whether you're an experienced runner looking for your next challenge, aiming to complete your first half marathon, or hoping to tick a major event off your bucket list, the charity is encouraging people from across the horticultural industry and beyond to sign up and make every mile count.

Every pound raised will help Greenfingers continue its mission of creating beautiful, therapeutic gardens at children's hospices throughout the UK. These specially designed outdoor spaces provide children with life-limiting conditions and their families with somewhere to play, explore, relax and spend precious time together away from the clinical environment.

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at Greenfingers Charity, said: "The London Landmarks Half Marathon has become one of our favourite fundraising events. Every year we're inspired by the incredible commitment shown by our runners, who train tirelessly and raise vital funds to help us create more life-enhancing hospice gardens.

"We'd love to welcome even more people to Team Greenfingers in 2027. Whether you're running in memory of someone special, challenging yourself to achieve something extraordinary or simply want to support a wonderful cause, we'll be with you every step of the way. Every mile you run will help us create spaces where children and families can make precious memories together."

Why run for Greenfingers?

With just 10 charity places available, this is a fantastic opportunity to take on one of London's most popular half marathons.

As part of Team Greenfingers, runners will receive:

• A guaranteed place in the 2027 London Landmarks Half Marathon
• A Greenfingers Charity running vest
• Fundraising support, ideas and resources throughout their journey
• Plenty of encouragement from the Greenfingers team and supporters on race day
• The opportunity to make a lasting difference to children and families who rely on hospice care

About the London Landmarks Half Marathon

The London Landmarks Half Marathon is the only half marathon to take place entirely within the City of London and City of Westminster. The closed-road route passes many of London's most famous landmarks alongside hidden historical gems, with live entertainment, themed cheer points and thousands of spectators creating an unforgettable atmosphere from start to finish.

Find out more

Places are limited and are expected to be allocated quickly.  To register your interest or secure your place as part of Team Greenfingers, visit the Greenfingers Charity website or contact Kirsty in the fundraising team today by emailing: Kirsty@greenfingerscharity.org.uk.

To find out more about the Greenfingers Charity and its work creating gardens for children's hospices across the UK, visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk.

You can also follow Greenfingers Charity on Instagram and LinkedIn (@GreenfingersCharity) for the latest news, fundraising events and inspiring stories.

The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation has announced its support for the 2026 Botanical University Challenge and Festival of Botany, reinforcing its commitment to developing the next generation of horticultural and plant science professionals.

Hosted this year by the University of Reading, the three-day event brings together students, academics and industry leaders from 12 leading universities and botanic gardens across the UK and Ireland. Institutions from Plymouth to Aberdeen, Galway and Dublin to Cambridge will take part in what has become one of the UK's most significant celebrations of botanical education.

The University of Reading, renowned for its excellence in botanical teaching, research and industry collaboration, is hosting the event during the centenary year of receiving its Royal Charter.

The Student Botany Festival, running from 19-21 August, opens with the finals of the Botanical University Challenge, following months of competition involving 32 university teams. Alongside the competition, delegates will take part in an extensive programme of workshops, practical sessions, lectures, seminars, careers panels, exhibitions and networking events designed to showcase the breadth of opportunities within plant sciences and horticulture.

Dr Hannah Hall, a member of the festival planning team, said: "This unique festival has created a platform that strengthens botanical literacy, enhances employability and inspires the next generation of botanists and plant scientists at precisely the time our industry needs them most."

Among those contributing to the careers programme will be Colegrave Seabrook Foundation Trustee Adam Dunnett, Production and Amenity Director at Hillier Nurseries, who will take part in a plant science careers panel.

He said: "The Foundation recognises the vital role that plant science plays in successful commercial horticulture, and we are delighted to support this year's festival. Horticulture is a practical, hands-on profession, but its long-term success depends on the strong scientific knowledge developed through university education and the pioneering research taking place across the sector."

The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation supports students studying horticulture at colleges and universities throughout the UK and Ireland through bursaries, scholarships and travel awards.

Applications for the Foundation's 2027 awards programme will open this autumn. Further information is available from the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation.

Challenging conditions have been met head on by the team at Mr Fothergill’s with the show of colour and vigour from plants in the Trials Ground nothing short of a miracle.

At Kentford, West Suffolk, the seed company’s 2000 plus lines are put to the test to ensure what is pictured on the front of the packet, is actually what grows in customers’ gardens. In addition are new introductions to give the team first-hand experience in growth habits etc.

New this year is the impressive Sweetcorn ‘Summer Celebration’, so sweet and juicy it can be eaten straight off the plant without cooking. Warm temperatures have ensured cobs have ripened early this year, and Rachel Cole also recommends ‘Picnic’ with smaller cobs but perfect for the bbq. 

First year flowering perennials were strong performers with Gaura (now Oenothora) Emmeline White and Monarda Panorama Mixed loving the warm weather. So too was Achillea ‘Summer Berries’, a mix of strong and pastel shades. Three gomphrena were also impressive with little to choose from Atomic Purple, Lavender Lady and Strawberry Fields. Not a plant seen that often in borders or containers, but one which might demand a place if warmer and brighter summers become the norm.

The Garden Room, next to the Trials Ground, is the company’s new event space for use by Mr Fothergill’s but it is also opening it for the wider industry and community groups to meet and hold workshops. 

There are 11 new introductions for 2027 in the Mr Fothergill’s range including Tomato ‘Sahel’, Antirrhinum ‘Night & Day’, and Sweetcorn ‘Summer Celebration’, plus a futher eight under the Johnsons brand. Zinnia Forecast is made of an eye-catching mix of colours while Carrot RubypakF1 adds a red-rooted variety to the choice.

See picture gallery below...

The Greenfingers Charity is celebrating the success of its 2026 Summer Ball after the spectacular evening raised an incredible £32,000, helping to fund the creation of more magical gardens for children with life-limiting conditions and their families at children's hospices across the UK.

Held at Coombe Abbey Hotel, the black-tie event welcomed supporters from across the horticultural industry and beyond for an evening of celebration, generosity and fundraising. Garden Centre Magazine was proud to support the event as headline sponsor, alongside Vitax, Westland Horticulture, British Garden Centres, HSK, APAC, Clover Grow and Tom Cook of The Gardening Club. Their generosity, together with that of the many businesses and individuals who donated raffle and auction prizes, helped make the evening such a resounding success.

The funds raised will support Greenfingers Charity's ongoing programme of hospice garden projects across the UK. These specially designed outdoor spaces provide children with life-limiting conditions, together with their families and carers, with beautiful places to care, play, learn, grow and create precious memories together.

Looking ahead to 2027

Following the success of this year's event, Greenfingers Charity is delighted to confirm that the 2027 Summer Ball will take place on Thursday 1st July 2027, once again at Coombe Abbey Hotel.

Planning is already well underway, with the charity having secured its first event sponsors and received an encouraging number of early table bookings.

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at the Greenfingers Charity, said: "Our Summer Ball is one of the highlights of the Greenfingers calendar, but this year's event exceeded all expectations. To raise an incredible £32,000 is simply fantastic, and we are enormously grateful to everyone who attended, sponsored, donated prizes, volunteered or supported the evening in any way.

"The enthusiasm we're already seeing for next year's Ball is wonderful and I’m sure will translate into an even bigger, more successful evening. We're already looking forward to welcoming both returning supporters and new faces for another unforgettable evening in 2027."

Early Bird offer extended

To give even more supporters the opportunity to secure their places, the Greenfingers Charity has extended its Early Bird ticket offer until Monday 10th August.

Tickets remain at £130 per person or £1,250 for a table of 10 until the extended deadline, after which prices will increase.

Whether you're entertaining clients, rewarding colleagues, bringing friends together or simply supporting a worthy cause, the Greenfingers Summer Ball promises another memorable evening of exceptional hospitality, entertainment and fundraising.

Become a 2027 Summer Ball sponsor

Businesses and organisations are also being invited to become sponsors of the 2027 Summer Ball. Sponsorship offers a unique opportunity to align with one of the horticultural industry's flagship fundraising events, raising brand awareness among an influential audience while demonstrating a commitment to helping Greenfingers create life-changing children's hospice gardens.

With several sponsorship packages already secured, businesses are encouraged to enquire early to secure their preferred opportunity.

Save the dates

Supporters are also encouraged to add three key Greenfingers fundraising events to their 2027 diaries, including the Summer Ball:

• Friday 12th March – Garden Re-Leaf Day
• Friday 25th to Saturday 26th June – the inaugural Greenfingers Chairman's Challenge
• Thursday 1st July – Greenfingers Charity Summer Ball  

To reserve tickets, book a table or discuss sponsorship opportunities for the 2027 Summer Ball before the extended Early Bird deadline, visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk or email linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk.

GTN July-August 2026. In this issue: Kilimanjaro – in the climbers’ words, A new chapter for garden retail at APAC, Dragons at Floral Fantasia, Two shows one visit – Glee & Autumn Fair, Andy Bunker tribute, National Garden Scheme sales opportunities, GTN’s Greatest Restaurant & Food Hall Garden Centre Team Awards, Garden timber with provenance from Jagram, GTN’s SOLEX review, Dedication to trees at Frank P Matthews, Restaurants – a strategic asset, Green innovations – GTN Planteria, SOLEX 2026 a show to remember – LOFA viewpoint, Water resilience – HTA viewpoint.

Inside your Glee 2026 Pre-Show Guide: Welcome to Glee 2026, Glee Show Sectors, Autumn Fair, What’s On at Glee, Glee New Product Showcase, Green Heart, Future Plants, Glee First, Glee Awards, The Clubhouse, GIMA Lounge, Glee Partners, General Information, Glee 2026 Show Plan, Quick A to Z of Exhibitors.

The printed Show Guide with detailed A-Z listings of all exhibitors will be available for visitors to collect at the entrances for Glee 2026.  Exhibitors can enhance their listing and take advertising space in the full Show Guide by contacting Alan Burdon alan@pottingshedpress.co.uk before 10th August 2026

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Sustainable plant pot and accessory manufacturer elho will make its return to Glee this September, showcasing not only a range of new product innovations but also inspiring shopfloor concepts and merchandising solutions designed to help retailers maximise sales, enhance product presentation and meet evolving consumer demand.

Exhibiting on stand 18B64-C65, the B Corp-certified brand will unveil its key launches spanning wildlife, indoor living and everyday gardening, alongside immersive retail displays that demonstrate how carefully considered merchandising and category management can create more engaging shopping experiences and drive commercial performance.

Having supplied the UK market for more than 30 years, elho is keen to reconnect with retailers and demonstrate how it has evolved beyond product innovation to become a trusted retail partner, providing insight-led product range advice, merchandising expertise and category solutions that support long-term growth.

New innovations

Leading the 2026/27 launches is an expansion of elho's award-winning wildlife gardening collection with the introduction of a new range of bird feeders. Developed with wildlife experts, the collection brings a fresh, design-led approach to a category that has traditionally lacked innovation, combining contemporary aesthetics with practical functionality and strong sustainability credentials.

Supported by eye-catching packaging and point-of-sale solutions, the range has been designed to help retailers increase basket spend, maximise sales per square metre and create destination wildlife displays that inspire customers to purchase across the category.

Alongside the wildlife range, elho will introduce niva, the latest addition to its basics portfolio. Developed in response to increasing consumer demand for affordable yet stylish gardening products, niva offers retailers a commercially strong core range that balances contemporary design, durability and accessible pricing.

Rather than being a standalone planter, niva has been designed as a complete merchandising system, featuring:

• 11 sizes, from 14cm to 47cm, suitable for everything from indoor houseplants to large outdoor containers
• Coordinating saucers to encourage add-on purchases and increase basket value
• Compatible plant stands and display solutions for impactful in-store presentation

The coordinated system enables retailers to create cohesive, easy-to-shop displays while supporting cross-selling opportunities and making the most of valuable retail space.

Another new addition is dune, an indoor planter collection designed to capitalise on the continued growth of the houseplant and interiors market.

Available in warm anthracite, mushroom beige and linen white, dune reflects the natural textures, tactile finishes and neutral palettes forecast to dominate interior trends throughout 2027 and beyond. The collection allows retailers to offer consumers elevated styling at an accessible price point, bridging the gap between decorative homewares and practical plant care products.

• Six sizes from 14cm to 30cm to suit everything from gifting to statement indoor planting
• Lightweight and waterproof, making the range easy to merchandise and transport
• Contemporary design that helps retailers tap into the growing demand for aesthetic indoor plant styling at an accessible price point

Alongside product development, the business continues to invest heavily in consumer insight and category expertise, helping retailers make informed decisions around ranging, merchandising and future trends. This commitment has earned the brand multiple international awards, demonstrating that commercial success, sustainability and exceptional design can go hand in hand.

Visitors to Glee will also be able to explore elho's immersive store concepts, providing practical inspiration for creating attractive, high-performing shopfloors that improve customer experience while maximising category performance and sales.

For more information about elho and its retail offering, visit https://www.elho.com/en/for-business/.

With just days remaining for exhibitors to enter Pitch Live at Autumn Fair 2026, organisers are calling on emerging brands to seize the opportunity after previous winners described the competition as “invaluable experience,” “brilliant opportunity” and “unforgettable” and urged newcomers to enter and “go for it”.

Returning for 2026 with a brand-new morning timeslot designed to maximise buyer engagement, Pitch Live, in partnership with Retail Huddle, has become one of Autumn Fair's most anticipated features, providing exhibitors with a unique platform to pitch directly to an audience of influential retail buyers and expert judges. More than just a competition, Pitch Live has built a reputation for helping young brands gain valuable industry exposure, strengthen their propositions and unlock commercial opportunities that continue long after the show has closed.

This year's competition will take place at 11am across the first three mornings of Autumn Fair, giving shortlisted brands greater visibility at the start of each day and allowing buyers more time to revisit winning exhibitors, place orders and continue conversations throughout the show.

A host of high profile judges have been confirmed including Fashion designer Jeff Banks from Jeff Banks London; Estella Arroyo, Head of Design, George at Asda; Judy Bendall, Head of Retail at Blenheim Palace; Rebecca Gilligan, Senior Buyer from Elphicks Department Store; Joanne Barker, Founder of Hettie & Sid; Ami Rabheru, Retail Strategist and Founder of Retail Huddle and a former Retail Buyer for M&S, Next & Tesco; and Sharon Good, Founder and Managing Director, Good Results PR.

Matthew Mein, Event Director at Autumn Fair said: “Retail has never been more competitive, particularly for emerging brands trying to get noticed. Pitch Live gives exhibitors something incredibly valuable: the opportunity to put their business in front of a room full of engaged buyers, industry experts and fellow retailers who are actively looking for the next great product. We've deliberately moved the competition to the morning this year because we want to give finalists even greater commercial opportunities. Buyers can discover exciting new brands early in the day, visit their stands afterwards, place orders and continue conversations throughout the show. It's a simple change that we believe will deliver even greater results for participants.”

Previous winners say Pitch Live has delivered far more than a trophy. After winning the Gift category at Autumn Fair 2025, Terence Chung PhD, Founder and Director of FRUU, said the experience fundamentally changed the direction of his business.

“Pitch Live gave us a fantastic opportunity to hone our pitch for our latest collection and validate our products in front of a panel of industry experts. It was a brilliant experience all round. The response was so overwhelming that we've gone back to reassess our launch, and instead of a single product range, we're now launching as an outright brand with an extended product offering. We're returning to Autumn Fair to fulfil our pre-orders and take on new ones.”

Sophie Eckley, Director, Nudie Jewellery won the Fashion category at Autumn Fair 2025, she said, “Winning Pitch Live was an unforgettable moment in Nudie's 'Year Zero', but looking back, the biggest prize wasn't the trophy, it was everything that happened afterwards. One potential stockist watched my pitch and came straight over to introduce herself. Another unexpected outcome was meeting judge Ami Rabheru from Retail Huddle, a connection that led to our first pop-up at Westfield London and, ultimately, an invitation to pitch Nudie to Heathrow Airport's Reserve & Collect team.

“Pitch Live accelerated our journey in ways I couldn't have predicted. More than anything, it gave me confidence in both the brand and my ability to communicate its story. Since then, Nudie has grown to six UK stockists, exhibited at more than 40 events, launched across multiple marketplaces and continued to build on the momentum that Pitch Live helped create.”

For March Muses, winner of the Gift category at Spring Fair 2026, the benefits extended well beyond the competition itself. Founder Natalie Duvall said: “Pitch Live was an invaluable experience for March Muses. We entered because we wanted the opportunity to share our mission with a room full of retailers, industry experts and fellow entrepreneurs who understand the challenges of growing a consumer brand. Since taking part, we've had a dedicated PR session that has opened the door to some exciting opportunities, and we are looking forward to our two-day pop-up this Christmas courtesy of Retail Huddle. The judges also made valuable introductions and shared practical advice that continues to support our growth.

“For anyone considering entering Pitch Live, my advice would be: go for it. Be authentic, know your story, and be open to feedback. The experience is about so much more than the pitch itself, it's the conversations, connections and opportunities that follow which make it so worthwhile.”

Similarly, Blue Bear & Co., winner of the Kids category at Autumn Fair 2025, found that Pitch Live gave the brand something every young business needs - confidence. Founder Nici Robinson said: “Winning Pitch Live was a real highlight for Blue Bear & Co. As a small purpose-led business, it gave me an incredible opportunity to share the story behind the brand with buyers and industry professionals. Being recognised by the judges gave me confidence that our concept resonated and that there was a place in the retail market for products with genuine meaning and purpose.

“The biggest takeaway for me was the opportunity to tell our story. Blue Bear & Co. is much more than a teddy bear brand, our Bears for Life are thoughtfully designed to celebrate, comfort and remember life’s biggest moments. Pitch Live gave me the platform to communicate that in a way that connected with people and the response during the show was incredibly encouraging. My advice to anyone considering entering would be to go for it. If you have a product with a genuine story and you’re passionate about your business, Pitch Live is a fantastic opportunity to share that passion with the industry and gain valuable exposure.”

Taking place on the Counter Talks Stage, Pitch Live will showcase finalists across three categories:

• Fashion, Accessories & Jewellery – Sunday 6 September, 11:00am
• Home & Gift – Monday 7 September, 11:00am
• Toy, Play & Kids Clothing – Tuesday 8 September, 11:00am

Finalists will pitch their products live to the expert judging panel and audience of retail buyers before winners are announced on stage.

In addition to invaluable industry exposure, winners will receive:

• A place on the Retail Huddle Accelerator Programme OR a 1:1 Retail Mentoring Programme
• A one-hour PR and brand strategy consultation with Sharon Good, CEO of Good Results PR
• A 3m² contribution towards an Autumn Fair or Spring Fair 2027 stand

Applications for Pitch Live close on 14 August, with exhibitors invited to submit their brand story, product information and imagery via the exhibitor portal.

As competition for retail shelf space continues to intensify, Autumn Fair believes Pitch Live offers emerging brands more than just a moment on stage, it provides a platform to accelerate growth, build industry connections and gain the confidence to take their businesses to the next level.

How to enter

Visit www.autumnfair.com/whats-on/pitch-live for more information and T&Cs and submit your entry by 14th August. You can find the Pitch Live entry form within the exhibitor zone portal.

The Association of Professional Landscapers, the Horticultural Trades Association’s specialist designer and landscaper members, have won an impressive 63 medals and awards during this year’s show season.

APL members were involved in the design or build of more than 40 gardens at prestigious flower shows and garden festivals throughout the spring and summer, demonstrating their exceptional skills and commitment to excellence in horticulture and landscape design.

Award highlights include:

• A total of 38 medal-winning gardens
  • Two Platinum
  • One Premier Gold
  • 20 Gold
  • Six Silver Gilt
  • Five Silver
  • Two Silver Merit
  • Two Bronze
• Seven People’s Choice Awards
• Seven Best Construction Awards
• Seven Best in Category Awards

• Two Best in Show Awards
• Two Environmental Innovation Awards

Full results from the show season can be found below.

Phil Tremayne, the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) General Manager, said:

“Congratulations to all our members on another fantastic summer show season. Our designers and landscapers have consistently demonstrated their talent, professionalism and creativity in these award-winning gardens.

“What the public doesn’t see is all the months of hard work and dedication behind the scenes and the preparation for each build. Our members have brilliantly showcased the quality of work customers can expect from choosing an accredited APL professional on their gardening project.”

Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) members also played a part in the award-winning gardens by supplying tens of thousands of plants for show gardens at Chelsea and other flower shows throughout the summer.

The final show of the season takes place next month at the BBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair, Audley End (11 - 13 September 2026). Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) member businesses - Designscape, Holland Landscapes, Landscapes by Design, TKE Landscaping, Adscape, Cordes Horticultural Ltd, Haldon Construction Ltd and Bramley Apple Garden Design - will be collaborating on a showcase garden, building it in just three and a half days - whilst mentoring two young landscaping apprentices from Merrist Wood College.

The collaboration garden ‘The Association of Professional Landscapers Elevated Garden Living’ features a raised, terraced area for relaxing and growing, surrounded by lush planting and complemented by a small water feature. Visitors to the show will be able to see firsthand what can be achieved by using the services of professional designers and professional landscapers. Members of the Association of Professional Landscapers will also share their expertise at a free Drop-in Design and Landscaping Clinic.

Full results from the show season

Harrogate Spring Flower Show (23 - 26 April 2026)

• PREMIER GOLD + Best in Show - The Breathing Space, designed by APL member Melissa Morton and built by APL member Land Masons.
• GOLD - Common Ground by APL member J Paxman Landscapes.
• The APL Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) Garden, designed by APL General Manager Phil Tremayne – This garden was part of APL’s Landscape and Design Clinic; therefore, it was not judged.

BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair - Beaulieu (1 - 3 May 2026)

There were no APL-built show gardens; however, APL-accredited professionals were on hand to provide a Landscape and Design Clinic offering practical ideas and expert design advice.

RHS Malvern Spring Festival (7 - 10 May 2026)

• SILVER + Best Construction - The Blessings from the Sea, built by APL member JG Landscaping Ltd
• BRONZE - The Crafted Garden - designed for a changing climate, designed by APL member Jamie Dobinson from Crafted Landscapes
• ‘Clay - The Super Soil’ garden, designed by APL member Martyn Wilson and built by APL member JG Landscaping Ltd. This was a Feature Garden; therefore, it was not judged.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show (19 - 22 May 2026)

• GOLD + RHS Chelsea Garden of the Year (Best in Show) - The Campaign to Protect Rural England Garden, built with assistance by APL member Nadine Charlton from Home Spring Gardens
• GOLD + Best Construction - Lady Garden Foundation ‘Silent No More’ Garden, built by APL member Landscape Associates
• GOLD - The Killik & Co ‘A Seed in Time’ Garden, built by APL member Landform Consultants Ltd.
• GOLD - The Tate Britain Garden, built by Crocus and built with assistance by APL members Hide Landscapes and Radial Landscapes
• GOLD + Best All About Plants Garden - Woodland Trust: Forgotten Forest Garden, built by APL member CJ Landscapes
• GOLD + Best Balcony / Container Garden - A Little Garden of Shared Knowledge, sponsored by Viking, designed by APL member Katerina Kantalis
• GOLD - Hedgerow in the Sky, Tech Mahindra, built by APL member Cobham Court Landscaping
• GOLD - Tales from the Riverbank Garden sponsored by Kennedys’ Independent Property Agents, built by APL member Big Fish Landscapes
• GOLD - Flood Re: Contain the Rain Garden, built by APL member Acacia Gardens
• SILVER GILT + Environmental Innovation Award - The Eden Project: Bring Me Sunshine Garden, built by APL member Landscape Associates
• SILVER GILT - Journey Beyond the Tracks: From Adelaide to Perth, built by APL member Hardwood Landscapes
• SILVER GILT - The Boodles Garden, designed by: Catherine MacDonald (from APL member Landform Consultants Ltd) and built by APL member Gadd Brothers Trees and Landscapes
• SILVER GILT - Young Minds Garden, built by APL member Frogheath Landscapes
• SILVER + People’s Choice Show Garden - Parkinson’s UK – A Garden for Every Parkinson’s Journey, built by APL member Landscape Associates
• SILVER + People’s Choice All About Plants Garden - The Bat Conservation Trust’s Nocturnal Garden. APL member Riverdale Falls were involved in the build.
• SILVER + People’s Choice Balcony / Container Garden - Alzheimer’s Society: Microbes and Minds Garden, built by APL member Big Fish Landscapes
• BRONZE - The Seasalt Painted Garden, built by APL member Cobham Court Landscaping
• RHS x CITI Season of Abundance Garden, built by APL member JJH Landscapes. This was a Feature Garden; therefore, it was not judged.

BBC Gardeners’ World Live – Birmingham (18 - 21 June 2026)

• PLATINUM + Best Show Garden - The Garden of Evolution, built by APL member Design It Landscapes
• PLATINUM, Best Construction + Best Showcase Garden - Greenhouse Noir, designed by Matt Bettison (from APL member Arbour Landscape Solutions)
• GOLD - Walled Sanctuary for a Changing World, by APL member TJ Kennedy Garden
• GOLD - Sensed, Not Seen, built by APL member Ned Harvey Gardens
• SILVER MERIT - The Mill Ruins, built by APL member Gunns and Roses Ltd, designed by David Gisbourne from 3DG
• SILVER MERIT - The Umbrellas Garden, designed by APL member Dave Hodson Gardens and built by JG Landscaping
• The APL British Standards Garden, designed by APL General Manager Phil Tremayne, helped the public identify the critical differences between a bad and a well-constructed garden. Split in half, one side demonstrated the common pitfalls of hiring unverified contractors, whilst the other side showed the impact of professional design, quality workmanship and expert plant choices. This garden was part of APL’s Landscape and Design Clinic; therefore, it was not judged.

RHS Badminton Flower Show (8 - 12 July 2026)

• GOLD + Best Show Garden – The Cricket Pavilion Garden, designed and built by APL member Frogheath Landscapes
• GOLD, Best Construction (Show Garden) + People’s Choice Show Garden - Macmillan Cancer Support: The Nascent Shade Garden built by APL member Artisan Landscapes
• GOLD, Best Construction (Artisan Garden) + People’s Choice Artisan Garden - ‘Split Hazel Basketry’ Artisan Garden, built by APL member Arlington Landscapes
• GOLD + People’s Choice Pocket Planting Garden - Plantwild: The Pollinators Sanctuary Garden, built by APL member Bristol Garden Club
• GOLD + Environmental Innovation Award - Silo: All that comes in remains, built by APL member Surrounding Counties:
• SILVER GILT - Electuary Artisan Garden, designed and built by APL member Fenton Gardens:
• SILVER – Finding Hope, designed by APL member Pip Probert
• ‘The Archers’ 75th Anniversary Garden, built by APL member Ryan Alexander Associates. This was a Feature Garden; therefore, it was not judged.

RHS Sandringham Flower Show (22 - 26 July 2026)

• GOLD, Best Grow Forward Garden + Best Construction (Grow Forward Garden) – The Rhythm of Rainwater Garden, built by APL member Conway Landscapes
• GOLD, Best Show Garden + Best Construction (Show Garden) – RNIB Talking Books Garden, with APL members JJH Landscapes, HG Landscapes and Olive Tree Landscapes all involved in bringing the garden to life
• GOLD - The Habitat Garden Long Border, created by APL member Teasels Landscapes.
• SILVER GILT + People’s Choice Show Garden - 100 Sweet Summers Show Garden, designed by APL member Kitti Kovacs and built by APL member Cobham Court Landscaping.
• The RHS Royal Legacy Garden designed by Catherine MacDonald from APL member Landform Consultants and built by APL member Gadd Brothers Trees & Landscapes. This was a Feature Garden; therefore, it was not judged.
• The RHS Crafted from Nature Garden, built by APL member Norfolk County Landscapes. This was a Feature Garden; therefore, it was not judged.

At Woodmansterne Publications, we believe that great relationships build great business. 

As one of the UK's leading independent publishers of premium greeting cards, we're proud not only of the beautiful products we create, but of the lasting partnerships we've built with our retail customers through exceptional service, trust and support.

People are at the heart of everything we do – from the talented artists we champion, to the retailers we work with, and the colleagues who make our business a success.

We're looking for a passionate, customer-focused Retail Development Manager who enjoys building strong relationships and helping our customers grow their businesses through excellent service and commercial insight.

What you'll bring

• A genuine passion for building strong customer relationships and delivering exceptional service.
• A proactive, positive and solutions-focused approach.
• Commercial awareness and a proven ability to grow sales and develop customer accounts.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage your own territory effectively.
• A track record of achieving sales targets while maintaining outstanding customer relationships.

What we offer

• A competitive salary with sales and target-based commission and bonus opportunities.
• Pension contributions, healthcare benefits and a fully electric company car.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment where your ideas are valued.
• The opportunity to represent one of the UK's most respected independent greeting card publishers.

If you believe that outstanding customer service starts with building genuine relationships, and you're excited by the opportunity to help retailers grow while representing a trusted and respected brand, we'd love to hear from you.

For full job description or to apply, please email marktimlett@woodmansterne.co.uk 

The application deadline is 31^st August 2026.

Woodmansterne is ready to push boundaries to lead the industry into a greener, sustainable, speedier & inspiring era. That’s why we are committed to revolutionising how we work now and in the future. Woodmansterne aims to be an inclusive organisation, committed to an active Inclusion, Diversity and Equal Opportunities Policy, which starts with our recruitment and selection process.

Hillier Nurseries has appointed Karolina Forgacz as Senior Production Manager, succeeding Charles Carr.

Karolina joins Hillier at a pivotal time for the business, with the nursery undertaking its largest investment programme in a generation. The multi-million-pound programme includes significant investment in production infrastructure, automation, growing systems and nursery facilities, ensuring Hillier remains at the forefront of UK horticulture as it builds on its recent success winning the coveted International Grower of the Year 2026 accolade.

As customer demand evolves, Hillier continues to develop a broader and more diverse range of plants suited to modern gardens. Karolina will lead a review of the production programme and work closely with young plant suppliers to help shape and evolve the future plant range.

With more than 20 years of experience across commercial soft fruit and horticultural production, Karolina brings expertise in production planning, plant health, operational management and team development. Having started a career in the soft fruit sector, Karolina has successfully led large-scale production operations and managed workforces of up to 1,000 people during peak periods.

Karolina said: "Hillier is one of the most respected names in horticulture and I'm delighted to be joining the team at such an exciting time. I'm looking forward to working with colleagues and suppliers to develop an even stronger plant programme that meets the changing needs of our customers."

Karolina's experience in LEAN manufacturing will play an important role as Hillier continues to modernise production systems, delivering greater efficiency, productivity and continuous improvement across the nursery.

Adam Dunnett, Production & Amenity Director of Hillier Nurseries, said: "Karolina brings a wealth of production and leadership experience from across the horticulture sector. Expertise in operational excellence, plant health and people development will be invaluable as we continue investing in the future of the nursery and evolving our plant offering for customers."

Karolina joins Hillier from Greenwood Group, a Plant Healthy accredited nursery, complementing the company’s ongoing commitment to industry-leading biosecurity standards. Hillier also remains fully committed to 100% peat-free growing and is proud to be a partner of the RHS Transition to Peat-Free Fellowship.

Developing skills within the production team, alongside attracting new talent through the apprenticeship programme, will remain a cornerstone of the nursery's long-term strategy.

Karolina's appointment marks another important step in the continued investment in people, production capability and future growth at Hillier Nurseries.

For more information, visit www.hillier.co.uk.

BHETA members can discover how to improve transport efficiency by joining a webinar with the association’s latest Business Support Provider, Silvey Fleet.  The event takes place on Wednesday, 2 September, at 10am, and delegates can learn about the latest in intelligent fleet management and competitive fuel pricing.  Silvey Fleet will also outline some exclusive member benefits.

Silvey Fleet offers tailored fleet management solutions designed to help businesses take greater control of their vehicle operations. Providing expert support, the company works with organisations throughout the UK.  

Topics covered during the session will include:

• An introduction to Silvey Fleet and its services 
• How Silvey Fleet supports businesses with fleet management 
• Exclusive benefits available to BHETA members 
• Current fuel market trends and what they mean for businesses 
• How Silvey Fleet supports members of other trade associations and organisations 

BHETA exclusive benefits from Silvey Fleet include free fuel spend reviews, free fuel cards for an account’s lifetime, discounted diesel and unleaded fuel rates, carbon offsetting solutions and a referral partnership scheme that enables members to earn by introducing other businesses.

To register for the webinar, visit https://www.bheta.co.uk/events/supporting-smarter-fleet-management-with-silvey-fleet.

The British Home Enhancement Trade Association represents 300 member businesses with £11 billion in collective annual sales across DIY, Garden, Housewares, and Small Electrical Accessories sectors. BHETA provides members with market intelligence, legislative guidance, networking, and more. 

BHETA's Business Support Provider programme connects members with carefully selected specialist service providers offering practical expertise and preferential terms across a range of business functions, helping companies improve performance and reduce costs.

For more information about BHETA services and events, suppliers should visit www.bheta.co.uk or contact BHETA’s Member Services team at info@bheta.co.uk or +44 (0)121 237 1130.

RHS Shows will continue to bring world-class horticulture to new locations in 2027, with the charity confirming a calendar of four major events including its first-ever in Bristol.

Sitting alongside the RHS Chelsea Flower Show (18-22 May) and RHS Malvern Spring Festival (6-9 May) in the event calendar will be a new RHS event in Bristol (8-11 July) and return of the much-loved RHS Flower Show Tatton Park (21-25 July).

The charity announced in 2024 its intention to ‘tour’ its globally recognised shows, taking them to stunning new locations and new audiences. This has included RHS Wentworth Woodhouse in 2025 and RHS Sandringham and RHS Badminton this year, engaging communities, schools, and horticulturists across Yorkshire, Gloucestershire, Norfolk and beyond. The RHS now looks to Bristol to stage an urban floral spectacle.

The new Bristol event, set for 8-11 July 2027, will take the RHS to the heart of the city in the Prospect Building, a vibrant city-centre venue featuring indoor spaces and an outdoor courtyard to host a full-scale botanical takeover. Visitors can expect a full programme of pop-up plant displays, expert talks and advice, hands-on workshops and immersive experiences that reflect one of the UK’s most creative cities.

After a three-year touring interlude, RHS Flower Show Tatton Park returns for 21-25 July 2027 in the beautiful estate of Tatton Park in Cheshire. Known for its strong regional identity, RHS Tatton will showcase the horticultural talent of the North West with floral exhibits, show gardens, specialist growers and talks stages along with the return of the Young Designer Gardens to introduce exciting new talent.

RHS Malvern Spring Festival will kick off the floral calendar (6-9 May) with the world’s most famous gardening event and the RHS’ most important fundraiser, RHS Chelsea Flower Show, shortly after (18-22 May).

RHS Director of Development and Shows, James Wren said: “After the success of our new shows at Wentworth Woodhouse, Badminton Estate, and Sandringham Estate, we are delighted to be continuing our work to make the RHS more accessible and to welcome more people into gardening. Our new event in Bristol will bring the spectacle of an RHS Show to a bustling city centre providing inspiration for all gardeners, whether they have a small city garden or just a windowsill.”

“Alongside our new Shows, which allow us to work with new partners and create imaginative content, we are delighted to be returning to Cheshire for RHS Tatton Park to celebrate the North West and its proud horticultural community. These of course sit alongside RHS Chelsea and RHS Malvern as stalwarts in the horticultural calendar.”

In addition to the externally hosted RHS Shows, RHS Gardens will welcome their own seasonal shows and plant society events. A full calendar can be found at rhs.org.uk/shows-events

Fleuroselect’s 55th Annual Convention brought the international horticultural community together in Philadelphia, USA, from 14-16 July for three days of inspiration, recognition and collaboration.

Hosted in partnership with Burpee in honour of its 150th anniversary, the convention combined visits to outstanding American horticultural sites with the presentation of the 2027 Gold Medals, the organisation’s first-ever Member of Merit award, the welcome of four new members and countless networking opportunities, including a joint event with the American Home Garden Seed Association.

Recognising breeding excellence and dedication to the industry

The recent Gold Medal laureates were honoured with their awards in the beautiful, heritage-rich setting of Andalusia Historic House & Gardens. Prices were handed over from Fleuroselect President Marc Driessen and Secretary General Ann Jennen to Scott Roskuszka and Martijn Baijens (PanAmerican Seed), Matthias Redlefsen (Benary) and Geert-Jan Aaldering (Sakata) for their outstanding breeding breakthroughs entered into the Fleuroselect Annual Trial.

Additionally, in recognition of more than two decades of outstanding service as a trial judge and dedicated member of Fleuroselect’s Trial and FleuroStar Committees, Gerard Werink was honoured with the first-ever distinction of Member of Merit.

The convention featured visits to some of America’s most historic horticultural sites, including Burpee’s Fordhook Farm where owner George Ball, CEO Jamie Mattikow and team welcomed the delegation and gave insights into their horticultural legacy with the farm having birthed many breakthrough varieties over the years. Presentations were followed by guided tours through the impressive gardens and the Fleuroselect Annual Trial, grown in honour of the convention.

Another highlight was a visit to Lucas Greenhouses, one of the largest growers on the American East-Coast. As an established family-owned business, the company showcased impressively innovative greenhouses and shining trial fields with hundreds of blooming varieties to be explored, including numerous Fleuroselect member varieties and several award winners.

Strengthening international collaboration 

Within the framework of the Annual Convention, Fleuroselect proudly welcomed four new members to reinforce its international network and expand the represented product range: Meilland International from France, SonnenSaat from Germany as well as Edens Plants & Creations and Schneider Youngplants under new leadership from the Netherlands.

International collaboration remained a central theme throughout the convention. A joint event with the American Home Garden Seed Association, including a visit to Chanticleer Gardens and a roundtable discussion moderated by Diane Blazek from All-America Selections, brought together representatives from both organisations. Discussions focused on shared opportunities and challenges, from sustainability and climate adaptation to engaging future generations and navigating an increasingly complex global market, reaffirming the value of strong international partnerships across the industry.

In 2027, the Fleuroselect Annual Convention will be hosted from 23rd to 25th of August in Belgium together with member company Rudy Raes.

The Creative Retail Awards have opened the public vote for the 2026 Shop Drop Spotlight Award, putting ten of the UK’s most talked-about retail projects head to head. Voting is open now and closes on Friday 4 September.

Run in partnership with Shop Drop Daily, the Shop Drop Spotlight Award celebrates the projects that captured the imagination of the Shop Drop Daily community and generated the strongest levels of engagement, interest and conversation across its platforms over the past 12 months.

While the wider Creative Retail Awards are assessed by an independent panel of experienced industry judges, the Shop Drop Spotlight Award is decided entirely by the public, the very people for whom these retail environments and experiences were created.

The 10 projects in contention for the 2026 Shop Drop Spotlight Award are:

• adidas Hybrid Hotel, Caxton Works, London
• Dr. Martens The Art of Comfort Experience, The Outernet, London
• HOKA Run Stop Corner Shop, 123 Bethnal Green Road, London
• LANEIGE & Space NK Pop-Up Activation, Covent Garden Piazza, London
• LOEWE Perfumes The Crafted Garden Pop-Up, The Selfridges Corner Shop, London
• L’Oréal Paris IWD Café & Cinema Pop-Up Space, London
• Marc Jacobs Daisy Wild Eau So Intense Pop-Up, Covent Garden, London
• Nike Women Store Opening, King’s Road, London
• Prada and Miu Miu Window and In-Store Takeover, Liberty London
• The Blank Street Post Room Pop-Up, Greek Street, London

Together the 10 show how far physical retail has travelled, from immersive pop-ups and experiential activations to new store concepts, cultural collaborations and brand experiences built to be shared. Each one offers a distinctive answer to the same question: what can a modern retail experience achieve?

Antony Behiels, Co-Organiser of the Creative Retail Awards and Director of the Shop & Display Equipment Association, said: “Every year the Creative Retail Awards celebrate the very best in retail creativity, and the judging behind them is rigorous and completely independent. The Shop Drop Spotlight Award works differently. These ten projects have already earned the attention of the Shop Drop Daily community, and now the public decide which of them takes the title.

"Each one shows the creativity, innovation and ambition shaping retail right now, and we look forward to revealing the public’s choice in London on 15 October.”

Tim Nash, founder of Shop Drop Daily, said: "Every day, Shop Drop Daily shines a light on the world's best retail experiences, but it's equally important that we celebrate the incredible creativity happening here in the UK. The Shop Drop Spotlight Award recognises the ten projects that generated the biggest response from our community over the past year. It's a celebration of the brands, retailers, agencies and creative teams pushing our industry forward, and the fact that the winner is chosen entirely by public vote makes it all the more meaningful."

The winning project will be revealed live at the Creative Retail Awards ceremony on Thursday 15 October, which moves this year to an exciting new London venue, alongside the full results from across the Awards’ programme of more than 20 categories.

The public can explore all ten projects and cast their vote on the dedicated Shop Drop Spotlight Award page at the Creative Retail Awards website. Voting closes on Friday 4 September.

Vote here: https://www.creativeretailawards.com/public-vote

Award-winning horticulturalist and TV presenter David Domoney will be appearing at Blue Diamond’s garden centres across the UK in September to share his gardening wisdom with audiences.

An Evening with David Domoney – Step by Step Gardening Live is an entertaining and inspiring event filled with practical advice and insider tips.

Based on the hugely popular Step by Step Gardening YouTube series, this live event brings the channel to life with expert demonstrations, seasonal inspiration and practical techniques to use in your own garden.

This Morning’s resident gardening presenter will guide audiences through essential gardening tasks step by step, sharing professional tips, planting advice and creative ideas to help you achieve stunning results, whatever your level of experience.

Following the talk, guests will have the opportunity to take part in a live Q&A session, where David will answer gardening questions.

Starting on 2nd September, the tour will take in nine garden centres. These are Van Hage, Frosts Woburn Sands, Yarnton, Endsleigh, Cardiff, Melbicks, East Bridgford, Barton Grange and Fosseway.

Blue Diamond’s Group Events Manager Rebecca Gurnett says: “We are delighted to announce that we will be hosting a series of live David Domoney evenings across our centres. These events are designed to support the continued growth of our Step-by-Step Gardening YouTube programme while providing our customers with an engaging and memorable experience.

“Whether you're a passionate gardener, a fan of television or simply looking for an entertaining night out, this is a unique opportunity to meet one of Britain's best-loved gardening personalities and enjoy an evening full of laughter, inspiration and advice.”

The evening also includes a welcome drink on arrival and an exclusive book signing with David.

Diamond Club customers will receive an exclusive £5 credit added to their membership account, which can be redeemed on their visit after the event.

The tour dates are:

• September 2nd - Van Hage
• September 3rd - Frosts, Woburn Sands  
• 15th September - Yarnton
• 17th September - Endsleigh
• 18th September - Cardiff 
• 22nd September - Melbicks
• 23rd September - East Bridgford
• 24th September - Barton Grange 
• 29th September – Fosseway 

Early bird tickets are priced at £12 per person and can be booked at https://www.bluediamond.gg/whats-on

Golfers from across the horticultural industry are being invited to take part in the Horticultural Golf Society (HGS) Captain's Day at Sandy Lane Golf Club on 27 August 2026, with proceeds helping Greenfingers Charity create and maintain magical gardens for children, their families and carers who spend time in hospices.

Located in the stunning landscape of the Moor Park estate on the Hertfordshire/Middlesex borders, Sandy Lodge Golf Club offers a spectacular setting for this year’s Captain’s Day. Proudly featured on the Top 100 Golf Courses website, the club has been home to notable members in golfing history and has hosted many prestigious tournaments.

The event promises a fantastic afternoon of golf, networking and friendly competition, followed by a three-course dinner and prize presentation.

Teams of four are invited to enter, with any combination welcome, including men, ladies, mixed teams and guests. The competition will be played with the two best scores counting.

Entry costs £150 per person, which includes sandwiches on arrival, range balls, 18 holes of golf, nearest-the-pin competitions on all par threes, a three-course dinner and a contribution to Greenfingers Charity.

Players should arrive in time for a 1.30pm shotgun start, with dinner served from 7.00pm. The event is limited to a maximum of 22 teams, so early booking is recommended.

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at Greenfingers Charity, said: "The Horticultural Golf Society Captain's Day is always a fantastic occasion, bringing together colleagues, friends and supporters from across the horticultural industry for a great day of golf while raising funds that make a real difference. Every player who takes part will be helping us create and maintain gardens where children with life-limiting conditions and their families can spend precious time together. We hope as many golfers as possible will join us."

Whether you're playing with colleagues, clients, friends or family, the HGS Captain's Day offers a brilliant opportunity to enjoy a memorable day on the course while supporting a worthwhile cause.

With places limited to just 22 teams, golfers are encouraged to book before Monday 17^th August to secure their place.

To reserve your place or find out more, please contact Merv Foulds at mervfoulds@hotmail.com or drop the Greenfingers team a line by emailing:  Fundraising@greenfingerscharity.org.uk.

Established suppliers are heading back to the Glee show floor with broader ranges, new commercial models and renewed ambition for the garden retail market.

The return of a familiar name to an exhibition can easily be treated as little more than a line on a floorplan. Look a little closer, however, and the reasons behind that return often reveal much more about the direction of a business and its confidence in the market it serves.

At Glee 2026, a growing group of established suppliers is returning to the show after time away. Their stories are different, but common themes quickly emerge: investment, evolution and a desire to reconnect with garden retail at a moment when products, purchasing models and consumer expectations are all changing.

Among those coming back are Lava Lite, Scheurich, Burton McCall and Jeyes. Together, they span plant and lawn care, pots and planters, cutting tools and outdoor cleaning. Some last exhibited only two years ago, while Jeyes is making its first appearance at Glee for a decade. What unites them is that none is returning with the same proposition it brought before.

More than a return for Lava Lite

For Lava Lite, which last exhibited in 2024, the decision follows a period of significant brand and range development. Its horticulture and pet care offer has become stronger and more focused, with greater investment in sustainability, education and clear in-store communication.

“Coming back in 2026 feels like the natural next step for us,” said Kieron Tompkin, Co-Founder of Lava Lite. “The brand has grown, our range has matured, and Glee is still the place where meaningful retail relationships begin. It is the show where people come ready to discover something new.”

The company will bring Aqua Nuggets, Grass Guard Plus, No Gnats and its wider plant care portfolio to the show, alongside developments focused on soil health, pet-safe lawn care and water clarity.

Yet its return is about more than introducing products. Lava Lite is placing increased emphasis on merchandising, education and sell-through support, reflecting the pressure on retailers to make every fixture work harder and ensure new ideas can be understood quickly by customers.

A fresh UK start for Scheurich

Scheurich’s story is different again. The German family brand has exhibited at Glee previously as part of its wider UK presence, but its 2026 appearance will be the first under a revamped direct-factory supply model introduced in April.

For retailers, the changes include 10-working-day lead times from the company’s Kleinheubach factory, carriage-paid ordering from £500, flexible RRPs and pre-priced pots. Scheurich has also refreshed its packaging, point-of-sale materials and catalogue, while broadening its offer beyond its waterproof ceramics to include indoor and outdoor plastics, premium wicker and watering accessories.

“It is less a return and more a fresh start,” explained Sam Bentham, UK Sales Manager at Scheurich UK. “Glee is the natural place to reintroduce a near 100-year-old family brand to UK buyers on our own terms, with a fresh look to go with the fresh start.”

That fresh start will be hard to miss. Scheurich is planning a large stand, around 200 new SKUs and the launch of its 2027 catalogue.

Highlights will include the artisan styling of Rustica, the deep ombre colours of Avora and new matt colourways for the best-selling Monaco family, all backed by the brand’s 100% waterproof guarantee.

Premium tools back on the show floor

Burton McCall also last exhibited in 2024, when it showcased FELCO and introduced Swiss tool brand ALPEN. Since then, FELCO has continued to build on its reputation for precision, durability, repairability and ergonomic design, while ALPEN has expanded its UK presence and product breadth.

Glee visitors will be able to explore FELCO’s established range of secateurs, pruning tools and accessories alongside ALPEN’s growing portfolio of saws, loppers, hedge shears and manual and battery-powered pruning equipment, including electric pruning shears.

“What stood out most in 2024 was the quality of the conversations with buyers and retailers who were actively looking for innovative, premium products to strengthen their gardening categories,” said Mohamed Hajat, Director of Sales at Burton McCall Ltd. “We want visitors to experience first-hand the quality and innovation behind both brands and understand how premium, long-lasting tools can add value to their offer.”

That emphasis on longevity and demonstrable product performance is timely. As consumers scrutinise value more carefully, premium products increasingly need a clear explanation of why they deserve their place on the shelf. The opportunity to handle, compare and discuss tools in person remains one of the exhibition environment’s greatest strengths.

A heritage name looks to its next chapter

Perhaps the most striking return comes from Jeyes, which last exhibited at Glee in 2016. Since ECS acquired the brand at the end of 2024, it has invested in expanding and revitalising the range while preparing for Jeyes’ 150th anniversary in 2027.

The portfolio now contains more than 20 SKUs, making it the brand’s most comprehensive outdoor cleaning offer for many years. The iconic Jeyes Classic sits alongside ready-to-use formats and specialist solutions designed around the needs of today’s consumers.

“Returning to Glee is the perfect opportunity to share that journey with retailers,” said Farah ElZoheiry from Jeyes. “We want to demonstrate how we are investing in the future of the UK’s oldest outdoor disinfectant brand and how we can help retailers grow sales in the outdoor cleaning category.”

As well as presenting the expanded range and new product developments, Jeyes will use Glee to offer retailers a first look at plans for its milestone anniversary. These will include promotional activity, competitions, marketing support and in-store opportunities planned throughout 2027.

Why the show floor still matters

Across all four businesses, relationship-building sits at the heart of the decision to return.

Lava Lite wants to deepen retailer partnerships and introduce its offer to new buyers. Scheurich is rebuilding direct UK relationships with independents, agents and buying groups. Burton McCall is focused on strengthening existing accounts while widening distribution for FELCO and ALPEN. Jeyes is reconnecting with the garden centres that have known the brand for generations, while introducing its revitalised offer to new customers.

Their plans also demonstrate why a trade show remains particularly valuable for products that benefit from explanation, demonstration or tactile appeal. Waterproof ceramics, pruning tools, treatment products and category-wide cleaning ranges all become easier to understand when buyers can see the full offer, speak directly to the people behind it and explore how it might work in their own retail environment.

As Sam Bentham put it: “It is still the one place in the UK calendar where the whole trade - buyers, agents and press, is in the same room. For a brand doing what we are doing this year, there is no substitute.”

Returning exhibitors are not simply revisiting old ground. They are coming back with changed businesses, stronger propositions and clear commercial ambitions. For retailers walking Glee 2026, these familiar names may therefore provide some of the show’s freshest stories.

Find out more

Glee takes place at the NEC Birmingham from 8th to 10th September 2026, co-located with Autumn Fair on 8th and 9th September to create Europe’s biggest buying moment of the second half of the year. Visit www.gleebirmingham.com for further information and to register.

Smartphones have transformed the way businesses manage their workforce. Today's employees expect the convenience of using a mobile phone to clock in and out, while managers benefit from real-time attendance visibility and reduced administration.

But with flexibility comes the need for control.

How can you be sure employees are actually on-site when they start or finish work?

WorkForce Manager solves this challenge with powerful geofencing technology. Businesses can define a location using a grid reference and set a maximum radius in metres within which employees are permitted to clock in or out via the mobile app. If an employee is outside the designated area, sign-in is simply not allowed.

The system supports multiple geofenced locations, making it ideal for Garden Centres with different working areas. For example, retail staff can clock in within the Garden Centre boundary, while warehouse or goods-in teams can start their day from a separate depot location.

For employees whose roles require greater flexibility, such as delivery drivers, area managers, or staff visiting suppliers and customer sites, WorkForce Manager allows authorised users to begin their working day away from a geofenced location.

Attendance visibility doesn't stop there. Managers can instantly see who has and hasn't arrived for their planned shift. Employees who have not clocked in are highlighted in red on dashboards, making potential issues immediately visible. Automated alerts can also be configured to notify management, ensuring no absence or missed shift goes unnoticed.

The result is accurate attendance data, reduced payroll queries, improved workforce accountability, and greater confidence that staff are where they need to be.

Take control of mobile attendance with intelligent geofencing.

Book a demo todayand discover how WorkForce Manager can help you manage your workforce with confidence.

Green Olive Firewood is pleased to announce that the brand has been acquired by The Log Club Ltd, part of the wider TEM Group of companies.

This marks an exciting new chapter for one of the UK's leading firewood brands, creating one of the country's largest manufacturers of British kiln dried firewood.

For customers and retail partners, it is very much business as usual.

The existing management team remains in place, now supported by significant new investment, providing a strong platform for continued growth, innovation and customer service.

Following this investment, we now operate from a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Cheshire and are proud to be the UK's largest manufacturer of British kiln dried logs and kindling. This increased capacity enables us to support our growing customer base with reliable, year-round supply.

The investment has also enabled the launch of our new Freedom British Firewood value range, broadening our offering with high-quality British kiln dried logs and kindling at even more competitive price points. By offering customers greater choice across both premium and value ranges, we are strengthening our market position and supporting our strategy to grow market share while helping retailers meet consumer demand in an increasingly value-conscious market.

Our wood is dried completely off-grid using renewable energy and primarily solar power, delivering a secure, sustainable and dependable manufacturing process.

Importantly, all existing customer agreements, trading relationships and commercial terms remain unchanged. Customers can continue to order with confidence, knowing they will receive the same trusted products, the same account management and the same high levels of service they expect from Green Olive Firewood.

Management Statement

"This investment marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Green Olive Firewood. With enhanced manufacturing capability, long-term investment and one of the UK's most advanced firewood production facilities, we are better placed than ever to support our customers.

The launch of our new Freedom British Firewood value range further strengthens our offering, enabling us to provide exceptional British-made products across a wider range of price points while supporting our retail partners in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Our commitment remains unchanged. We will continue supplying high-quality British products, investing in innovation and delivering the dependable service our customers rely on."

Green Olive Firewood looks forward to continuing to support retailers, merchants, hospitality businesses, campsites and consumers across the UK with British-made products, dependable supply and continued investment in quality, innovation and service.

For further information, customers should contact their usual Green Olive Firewood representative.

Corby+Fellas is partnering with Springtime Nurseries, one of the leading garden centres on Crews Hill’s famous 'Golden Mile' of gardening stores and nurseries.

With more than 30 years’ experience in the garden centre trade, Springtime Nurseries has built an excellent reputation for its extensive choice of plants, flowers, tools and accessories for the home and garden. The family-run business also offers a wide selection of homeware, gifts and seasonal products and is well known locally for its popular Pumpkin Patch and Christmas Wonderland.

As part of the partnership, Springtime Nurseries has introduced Corby+Fellas’ WinRetail system to bring its retail operations together within one connected solution. Corby+Fellas’ Jacob Parker and Jamie Cann were onsite to implement the system and support the Springtime team throughout the process.

WinRetail will help the team manage its day-to-day operations, improve stock visibility and continue providing the excellent customer experience for which the business is known.

We’re grateful that Springtime Nurseries has chosen to work with Corby+Fellas and proud to support such a respected and well-established independent garden centre.

We look forward to working closely with the Springtime team and developing a successful, long-standing partnership as the business continues to grow and evolve.

To find out more about how Corby+Fellas could support your business, please contact sales@corbyfellas.com.

Your customers will be the judges of Greatness

As customer service and customer satisfaction are the keys to the ongoing success of garden centre catering, especially during this difficult summer, the winners of The Greatest Restaurant & Food Hall Team awards will be decided by the number and quality of customer votes your teams receive before the closing date of September 1st 2026.

Your customers can vote online by scanning the QR codes below or you can get them to vote in store and then send completed voting forms to the GTN office for counting.

To get your customers voting, all you have to do is download the voting posters and voting forms from the links below and display them in your restaurant, coffee shop and Food Hall.  In the meantime you could be adding the voting links into your websites and social media pages.

GTN's Greatest Restaurant Team Awards Voting QR Code

GTN's Greatest Food Hall Team Awards Voting QR Code

Restaurant Team Poster - Download       Restaurant Team Voting Forms - Download

Food Hall Team Poster - Download        Food Hall Team Voting Forms - Download

Or, download all files from this Dropbox link

As well as overall Greatest Restaurant & Food Hall Team Awards for different sizes of garden centre catering operations there will be regional awards too.  What better way to promote your Food & Drink offerings during the Autumn than with a GTN Greatest Awards win, especially as it will be thanks to your customers.

Customer voting is live now and runs until midnight on Tuesday 1st September, when the votes will be counted in readiness for the presentations at Glee.

Do you have The Greatest Tantalising Garden Centre Menu?

This year, we are looking for the garden centre team that has created the most Tantalising Menu to attract new customers and to keep regulars coming back for more.  if you believe your team currently have The Greatest Tantalising Garden Centre Menu then send a copy of the menu with a brief explanation as to the rationale and success of the menu to: trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk.

The menus will be judged by a panel of experts and the winners announced on the “Feed Your Business Stage” at Glee.

The deadline for menu entries is Tuesday 1st September. You could also send a short video too!

GTN's Greatest Garden Centre Restaurant & Food Hall Team Awards are sponsored by Pleydell Smithyman and Glee.  Other sponsorship opportunities are available, please contact alan@pottingshedpress.co.uk for details.