GIMA's upcoming ‘Buyer Connect’ event will provide an exclusive opportunity for members to engage directly with the buying team from Blue Diamond.

Taking place on Wednesday, 2nd April 2025, at Melbicks Garden Centre, Coleshill, Birmingham, this event forms a key part of GIMA’s ongoing Buyer Connect series. Designed to provide value and foster business growth, these events bring together leading retailers and suppliers, facilitating meaningful connections that drive commercial success.

Blue Diamond’s roots date back to 1904, a landmark year in the industry when the company emerged as the Fruit Export Company in Guernsey, Channel Islands. Blue Diamond has grown into one of the UK’s most successful garden centre groups. Still owned and managed in Guernsey, the company maintains a strong focus on plants and horticulture while employing around 3,500 people across its Head Office and 47 garden centres in the UK and Channel Islands.

What to expect

This upcoming GIMA Buyer Connect event is primarily focused on 2026 product ranging opportunities. However, the Blue Diamond team will also be on the lookout for products suitable for trial or spot deals in 2025. Both stocked and dropship product ranges will be considered, making this an invaluable opportunity for suppliers looking to establish or grow their presence within Blue Diamond stores.

As part of GIMA’s wider Buyer Connect series, this event is one of many designed to facilitate strategic engagement between GIMA members and key retail buyers. By participating in Buyer Connect events, suppliers can maximise their market exposure and strengthen their relationships with top retailers, ensuring ongoing growth and opportunity.

Vicky Nuttall, GIMA Director, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for GIMA members to showcase their products and expertise to the Blue Diamond team. With a key focus on 2026 planning, there is also potential for immediate business in 2025. This event provides a unique platform for suppliers to establish valuable partnerships and expand their market presence. As part of our ongoing Buyer Connect series, we are committed to offering members access to key buyers, helping them to unlock new commercial opportunities and drive sustained business growth.”

How to get involved

GIMA members are encouraged to prepare for in-depth discussions on their product ranges and commercial strategies. With representatives from Blue Diamond’s category management team in attendance, the event promises productive dialogues and new business opportunities.

Each participating member will receive a 20-minute appointment, with the option to book additional sessions for multiple product categories. A maximum of two representatives per company may attend each appointment. This event is free for GIMA members, while non-members can participate for £180 + VAT. There are no additional fees for multiple meetings.

Interested members must complete an application form and submit it to info@gima.org.uk by Friday, 21st February 2025. Suppliers with multiple product ranges should submit separate applications for each category. All applications will be reviewed by Blue Diamond, and confirmed meeting times will be communicated by the GIMA team in due course.

Find out more

For further information and to register your interest, visit https://gima.org.uk/calendar-of-events/ or email the GIMA team directly via info@gima.org.uk