The organisers of Glee have confirmed an attendance, subject to audit, of 9,112 for this year’s show – a drop of 18 per cent over 2011.

Event director Nick Davison said a number of issues had impacted on visitor numbers during what he described as “a period of significant change and development”, including the withdrawal of Petindex. “However, the overall picture is still a positive one,” he said.

The show had delivered a garden retail audience of quality. “Our garden related visitor numbers were only down seven per cent year-on-year, which is particularly positive considering current market conditions and what was deemed by many as one of the worst years for garden retailing for quite some time, “ he added. “Also, when we put this data into context, Glee has actually performed ahead of current market trends. In the HTA October Market Update report for example, garden centre sales are quoted as being 10 per cent down year-on-year as the weather, consumer confidence and economic issues continue to impact.”

There had been many positive comments from exhibitors and the industry and the Glee team would be investing “a lot of our resources” to attract more buyers to the show in 2013 (NEC, 16-18 September).

Glee 2012 boasted 527 suppliers exhibited, including 201 new exhibitors and 34 returning companies.

Davison said the feedback collected during and after the show had shown that Glee was something that the industry “firmly wants and needs”. “Whilst we have our own ideas on how to do deliver this, the ongoing advice, feedback and support of the industry is also vital: we cannot build a show that works, without the input of those who use it.  We will therefore continue to engage with the industry as we plan for the 2013 show.”

As part of the process, GIMA are urging retail visitors and exhibitors to take part in their online survey. “This is not just about suppliers,” said GIMA difrector Neil Gow. “Retailer feedback is just as vital.” Participants will be entered in a prize draw to win a case of wine.

Gow said this year’s survey had been expanded to take in wider issues of trade shows in the UK, following the successful recent trade shows ‘summit’ attended by the industry’s leading trade organisations.