Gardenex – the International Trade Service of GIMA – is continuing to strengthen international commercial connections across the garden sector with the latest event in its Gardenex Connect programme, offering suppliers the opportunity to meet directly with one of Canada's most respected garden and home retail brands.
Taking place on 16th July 2026, Gardenex Connect with Lee Valley will give suppliers direct access to the retailer's buying team through dedicated 25-minute one-to-one meetings. These sessions are designed to help businesses showcase their products, build new commercial relationships and explore opportunities within the Canadian market.
A trusted name in Canadian retail
Founded in 1978, Lee Valley is a highly respected Canadian family-owned retailer that has built a strong reputation for quality, innovation and exceptional customer service.
Today, the business operates 19 premium retail stores across Canada, supported by a thriving mail-order and ecommerce operation. With locations stretching from British Columbia to Nova Scotia, a head office and distribution centre in Ottawa, and additional warehousing in Reno, Nevada serving US customers, Lee Valley offers suppliers access to a substantial and highly engaged customer base.
Employing around 900 staff, the company places customer service at the heart of its operation, offering services such as Express Pick-Up and same-day local delivery in selected locations.
Whilst originally renowned for its woodworking expertise, Lee Valley has developed an extensive garden category encompassing grow-your-own products, indoor growing solutions, plant protection, pest and weed control, gardening tools, watering equipment, vegetable storage, wild bird care products and gardening clothing.
The retailer also publishes two specialist gardening catalogues annually, supported by a comprehensive online content platform featuring expert growing advice, seasonal gardening guides and educational resources.
What Lee Valley is looking for
Lee Valley is particularly interested in hearing from suppliers offering practical gardening equipment and accessories, including:
- Garden tools
- Watering products
- Weeding solutions
- Pest control products
- Plant supports
- Planting accessories
- Growing equipment
The buying team is seeking innovative, high-quality products that help gardeners achieve success whilst making gardening easier and more comfortable. Durability and long-term performance are key considerations, with all products undergoing rigorous testing before being added to the Lee Valley range.
Creating meaningful international connections
Gardenex’s International Trade Manager, Eleanor Wigram, said: "Gardenex Connect is all about creating meaningful commercial connections and opening doors to new opportunities across international markets. By bringing buyers and suppliers together, we're helping businesses explore new routes to market, build valuable relationships and gain a better understanding of opportunities beyond their existing customer base.
"Lee Valley is a highly respected retailer with an excellent reputation amongst gardeners across Canada, making this a fantastic opportunity for businesses looking to engage directly with an influential buying team and explore opportunities within the Canadian market."
How to get involved
Both GIMA members and non-members are invited to apply. Successful applicants will be allocated a dedicated 25-minute one-to-one meeting with the Lee Valley buying team.
Applications will be reviewed directly by Lee Valley, with successful companies notified by 7th July 2026 and provided with joining details.
If selected the participation costs are:
- GIMA Members: £100 + VAT
- Non-Members: £200 + VAT
Applications close on Monday 29th June 2026.
To apply, visit www.gima.org.uk/buyer-connect-lee-valley/
For further information, please contact Eleanor Wigram at Eleanor.wigram@gima.org.uk.
