Glee’s ‘Green Heart’ will be a showcase for more than 60 growers at next month’s show. Event director Matthew Mein offers 10 reasons why retailers should make a beeline for it…
1. Optimise profit potential of seasonal plants. With seasonal plants being more topical than ever, the Green Heart represents an opportunity to buy high impact lines for immediate delivery and sales through tills.

2. Get inspired – led by The Garden Works’ independent garden centre consultant, Kevin Waters, the Green Heart will benefit from an interactive and live element in 2015.  Throughout the show Kevin will lead a number of guided tours to demonstrate how cross merchandising can highlight a continual year-round association with the plant offer. A total of 12 exciting promotional displays will be created to showcase how plants can take centre stage every month of the year.

3. Network and learn – find out about the latest trends in plant sales, and network with industry colleagues in one convenient location.

4. View complementary products –the wider show is an opportunity to catch up with compost, fertiliser and chemical suppliers and keep up-to-date with changing ranges and supporting legislation.

5. Linked sales inspiration –learn about complementary ranges, including products that offer linked sales opportunities such as pots, plant supports and garden décor.

6. Show-only deals - benefit from deals that offer extra margin and impulse sales potential.

7. Brainstorm –share  your ideas with growers, helping both parties to sell more plants to boost overall sales and profits.

8. Look ahead to 2016 - meet with UK and international growers to find out more about their plans.

9. 60-plus plant suppliers – a showcase for 2016 ranges and recent introductions.

10. Follow-up on National Plant Show conversations - finalise details with new contacts initiated earlier this summer.

Among key names confirmed for the Green Heart are Wyevale Nurseries, Darby Nursery, Whartons Nurseries, Morley Nurseries, New Leaf Plants, Channel Island Plants, Chamberlain Nurseries, Chapel Cottage Plants, Javado, Bristol Tropical Centre, Addenda, Northumberland Nurseries, Anglo Aquatic, Tamata, Gedney Bulb Company, Kilworth Conifers, Topbuxus and Laurica.