Blue Diamond secured the first garden centre purchase of the year when the Channel Islands-based group bought the award-winning Newbridge Nurseries to take its portfolio of stores to 17. And the speculation has now turned towards which garden centres are next on the 'hit' list especially after the Wyevale CEO told managers and suppliers last week they were talking to a group of over 30 centres.

There has been a lot of gossip recently about the future of Dobbies Garden Centres, which has 35 stores throughout the country, particularly in light of the troubles facing its owner Tesco and GTN Xtra learnt this weekend from several sources that Kevin Bradshaw, CEO of Wyevale Garden Centres, told an audience of Directors, Managers and suppliers last week at their Stoneleigh Trade Show and Conference they were talking to a chain of over 30 stores and that they would be continuing on their aquisition plan to add another 10 centres this year.

Could the sale of Dobbies help to generate much-needed funds for the beleaguered supermarket giant and help it to focus on its core grocery proposition? GTN Xtra tried to speak to Dobbies MD Andy King this week to see if he was prepared to shed any light on the matter but we were politely told "It's quite a busy planning period for us so this wouldn't be possible."

On the surface it appears it's business as usual for Dobbies, which celebrates its 150th anniversary (click here for more details). But whether another big chain, from either the garden centre or DIY world, is trying negotiate a deal with Tesco is difficult to substantiate.

One thing we do know is that Tesco did scrap its plans for a joint venture with Dobbies in East Kilbride. The project, which was to have been the first new-build initiative between the garden centre retailer and the supermarket, was given the green light last summer but then ditched last month.

So is it more likely that a small independent garden centre will be next on the shopping list of a company like Wyevale Garden Centres, whose current portfolio stands two short of 150.

Here at GTN Xtra we keep our ears close to the ground, and as soon as we hear anything we will breaking the news. If you get tipped off of an imminent deal then we'd love to hear from you. Email trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk

Interesting times lie ahead.

Dobbies Garden Centres celebrates its 150th anniversary this year and to mark this milestone the company is looking to support a national anniversary charity partner that champions the benefits of gardening for either the environment or to benefit good causes.

Andy King, Managing Director of Dobbies, said: “As we celebrate 150 years of gardening, it makes sense to partner with a charity that shares our passion and recognises the power of getting things growing.

"In June, we’ll be holding a special event across our 35 stores to mark the occasion with the proceeds going to the appointed charity partner," added Andy King (pictured).

Dobbies has raised over £350,000 for local and national charities in the last financial year. Through various fundraising initiatives and anniversary events, Dobbies aims to raise £50,000 for the chosen charity anniversary partner.

How to apply: An application form can be downloaded here. The deadline for applications is 20th February 2015. Three finalist charities will be selected and public voting via social media and in-store will launch on 9th March 2015. The anniversary charity partner will be announced after voting closes on 23rd March 2015.

About Dobbies

Founded in 1865, Dobbies has today grown to become one of the UK’s leading garden centre groups with over 16 million customers every year at 35 stores across the UK and online at www.dobbies.com.  In 2007, Dobbies became part of the Tesco Group.  Its HQ remains in Edinburgh as a separate company with a unique brand and identity.

Alyson Haywood has left her role as Wyevale Garden Centres horticultural quality manager to start her own consultancy business. Leaving a company that owns 148 stores, she now wants to "help horticultural businesses thrive against the onslaught of fierce competition."

Haywood, who took up her horticultural quality manager role at Wyevale GC in November, has 25 years of knowledge and experience in the industry.

Her previous roles have included managing director of Moreton Park Garden Centre (now owned by Wyevale), regional operations manager and head of nurseries for the company.

Alyson told GTN Xtra at the GCA Conference that effective management training and cost control are areas of particular interest.  "I have a proven track record over a number of businesses and different garden centres where I've been able to deliver real business turnaround and greatly improved profit performance, so I now look forward to helping other businesses."

www.alysonhaywood.co.uk 

It’s a good job that the really keen gardeners don’t mind the cold weather. Considering the big variance in temperatures year-on-year during January, it would be expected there would be an overall drop in volumes, down 8%.  But, leading the way in the GTN Bestsellers charts are Growing Media sales, up 7% on January 2014 and up 42% on 2013.

As we regularly comment in GTN Bestsellers, that is a great indicator of future gardening activity.  When the ‘keenies’ get growing early that usually leads to a good gardening Spring.  

With Westland’s Jack’s Magic leading the way in the GTN Growing Media Top 50 for every week of 2015 to date, we’re all looking forward to that ‘magic’ spreading to all garden centre sales after this period of snowy weather has cleared and temperatures start to rise.

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year...

• Garden Products – down 17%
• Veg-2-Gro Products – down 21%
• Growing Media – up 26%
• All items index – up 1%

To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk

Bayer Garden has taken to the road to give garden centre staff the information they need to help and advise their customers. 

The Bayer Garden training roadshow kicked off in Cambridge on Monday before moving to Birmingham on Tuesday and Leeds on Wednesday. Further events will take place at Guildford on 9 February and Taunton on 11 February. 

“Our research shows that while consumers know exactly what they want to achieve – a weed free path, avoiding pest infestations or feeding at the correct times – they often don’t know how,” explained Alison Mulvaney. 

“Knowledgeable garden centre staff can make all the difference, informing consumers and giving them the confidence that they are making the right choice.  Confident customers buy while the research shows uncertain shoppers walk away with nothing.”

In particular, Bayer Garden is educating retail staff about the revolutionary new Baby Bio Vitality range and its two-step feeding regime.  Heralding Baby Bio’s move outdoors, the Vitality range has a new balanced formula that uniquely combines bio-stimulants and nutrients in one product.  Designed to optimise a plants’ development, this mix of ingredients creates the Activator Effect, which releases nature’s full potential. 

“Our research and development experts have proved that with Baby Bio Vitality plants produce more, vibrant scent filled flowers, tastier fruit & vegetables and more produce than ever before,” explained Alison Mulvaney. 

“To get the best results gardeners need to follow a two-step process, first using Top Growth for Flowers or Edibles and then as the flowers begin to bud or the fruit & vegetables begin to form adding Top Bloom or Top Taste respectively. 

"During our training roadshow garden centre employees are getting the information they need to help shoppers get the right product and go away confident in its use.”

In addition delegates are learning about Bayer Garden’s proven in-store sales strategy for weedkillers; it drove down walk away rates from 64% to 45% in independents.  This will also include general information about weeds and how to control them.

There will also be an update on bee populations, which have generally performed well this year due largely to a warmer 2013/14 winter and more available food sources.  Information on the new generation neonicotinoids will equip garden centre staff with the knowledge they need to answer consumers’ questions. 

Find out more at www.bayergarden.co.uk

Give the nation’s gardeners a chance to grow the world’s largest tomato, offer a £6,000 prize for their efforts, grab a few headlines, and the sales should speak for themselves.

That was Van Meuwen’s plan behind the launch of Gigantomo, a new variety capable of producing whopping tomatoes up to 3lb in weight with little specialist care.

However, unprecedented demand following national news coverage saw initial seed stocks sell out within 36 hours of launch, forcing the horticultural mail order specialist to reopen its production line and fill 10,000 more packets to ensure unbroken supply through the spring sowing season.

Van Meuwen General Manager Chris Wright said: "We initially launched 500 packets of Gigantomo seeds.

"This may not sound like a vast number but in the world of horticulture it's an impressive feat - last year our best selling tomato 'Tomazing' picked up 507 sales for the whole of the year.

"We couldn't believe it when our entire stock of Gigantomo packets sold within 36 hours of the variety being launched.

"We knew we were on to a winner when we negotiated the exclusive UK supply of Gigantomo seeds and plants, but initial interest and sales have exceeded all expectations. 

"It's a bold jump up to 10,000 packets but based on the speed of initial customer uptake and the level of web traffic we have received for Gigantomo seeds it may be that even this won't be enough to meet demand.

"It seems it's not just our customers that can expect big things from this tasty giant tomato in 2015.

The new disease-resistant variety is the result of almost two decades of research and development by breeders in the UK and the US.

Simon Crawford, one of the UK's leading plant breeders, was called in five years ago to finish the work of late American grower Paul Thomas, who spent 15 years trying to breed the huge tomato.

Gigantomo, can reach over 6ft tall, producing fruits up to 10 inches wide and as heavy as 3lbs. It was first launched in the US last year as SteakHouse. Van Meuwen is the sole UK supplierbut EU chiefs ruled the name unacceptable so it was changed to Gigantomo.

Gardeners lucky enough to get hold of the variety for 2015 can take the fruits of their harvest to the Harrogate Autumn Flower Show (18-20 September) and take part in the National Gigantomo Championships. Van Meuwen is offering a top prize of £1,000 for the heaviest fruit, with a further £5,000 jackpot up for grabs ifit also breaks the world record of 7lbs 12oz.

Seeds (6 for £3.99) or order plug plants (5 for £14.99) can be bought at www.vanmeuwen.com/tomato-gigantomo or call 0844 557 1850.

Leading garden tool manufacturer Fiskars didn't have to think too hard about who should be the face of their award-winning ranges. TV presenter, ethnobotanist and best-selling author James Wong ticked all the right boxes. 

Speaking about his new role James says: "As an ethnobotanist, you could say that I'm a geek that loves growing, so Fiskars' use of science, technology and passion in designing tools that transform gardening is the perfect partnership.

"I've been using Fiskars tools for years and frankly, the pruners are so sharp that I feel like Mr Myagi from the Karate Kid every time I use them. It's amazing to work alongside Fiskars in revolutionising UK gardening."

James, who co-presents the award-winning BBC series ‘The Great British Garden Revival', made a name for himself with TV programme ‘Grow Your Own Drugs', where he cooked up and created herbal remedies. Known for his passion to reinvent gardening, this ethobotonist's love of growing has resulted in a series of best selling books and a role as ambassador for the RHS.

Kerry Murfin, UK Marketing Director for Fiskars, says: "We are really excited to be working with James to promote the Fiskars range of award winning tools.

"From educating a nation on the fascinating science of plants, to growing cucamelons and wasabi, James injects va va voom into gardening. Since first appearing on our screens he has fired up a new generation of growers and garden lovers, and turns traditional gardeners into the garden passionista.

"With his combination of science, gardening expertise and unquestionable aesthetic appeal, Fiskars is the perfect tool of choice for this forward thinking expert."

As part of his new role James will work with Fiskars to inspire today and tomorrow's gardeners. From the traditional gardener to the converted urbanite, he will enthuse new and seasoned gardeners to get growing and show how time in the garden can be the most relaxing time of the day.

James Wong will be appearing at Fiskars events including the Garden Press Event on the 12th February, customer events and at the industry trade show Glee in September.

Follow James Wong @Botonygeek and read his blog Homegrown Revolution.

The recent snowfall and winter clearances have seen a rise in the sales of polar bears in the GTN Bestsellers Garden Products chart.

• Two Vivid Arts Playful Polar Bears have made it into the Top 10, with the sitting version being the highest climber.
• The Playful Dancing Polar Bear is the highest re-entry at No 11.
• The highest new entry is Smart Solar Hanging Crackle Globe with Hook at No 19.

The team at Norfolk Leisure were surprisingly still full of the Christmas spirit this week as they exhibited at the Spring Fair, NEC, this week. 

In partnership with National Tree Company, the lovely ladies and gents were again showcasing the exceptional range of artificial Christmas Trees and decorations.

The large collection is available in any quantity from the Norfolk warehouse from one tree to full containers.

New for the 2015 Christmas season are their latest developments, including PowerConnect and Music Match features that are compatible with National Tree pre-lit trees.

Trees that feature PowerConnect will no longer require the multiple light string and extension cord connections between tree sections.

Electrical connections are made through the tree center poles. These pole-to-pole connections reduce set-up time and add to the ease of assembling the tree.

Music Match can be connected to any National Tree Company low voltage LED tree as well. The system allows music to be streamed from a Bluetooth capable device causing the lights on the tree to “dance” in sync with the music you choose to play. Light intensity raises and lowers according to the volume of sound.

Pair them with the company's Memory Wire trees that arrive to customers perfectly shaped and do not require any fuss, and you will have the most advanced selection of artificial Christmas trees available on the market..One, Two, Tree!

For more information email Christmas@norfolkleisure.co.uk

With a week to go to the DIY and Totally Tools Show at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry, Darlac continues to ‘keep schtum’ about its latest and most innovative product to date which is due to be launched at the show on the Darlac stand (i39) on Sunday 15th February.

The Berkshire based garden tools company really is quite excited about its latest offering, and predicts that once everyone has seen and used this product, they will automatically fall in love with it, and that’s why they are launching on Valentine’s Weekend!

The first of its kind in the UK, and exclusive to Darlac, this unique new tool, is undoubtedly one for all you DIY, Garden Centre and Retail Buyers to check-out and stock-up with for the coming season ahead.

Peter Darban, joint managing director of Darlac, says: “As a company we are continually reviewing and adding new products to our ever growing range of garden tools and accessories, however, I can honestly say that I have never been more excited in all my years in this business as I am about the launch of this particular product.

"One thing I can reveal is that this product has been based on one of the most heavily used tools in our gardens to date, and a product that all gardeners, whatever their level and expertise will want to own."

Family owned Darlac Ltd, continues to grow as a leading tool company in the UK and Ireland and is regularly awarded ‘Best Buys’ for featured tools on test, in some of the most popular gardening magazines around.

It was a particularly proud moment for the company in November last year when they were told not only had they been awarded the number one BEST BUY for Secateurs on test in Gardening Which magazine but that they had also scooped second place - achieving the highest marks  awarded in 2014.

 Achieving the No 1 slot with thei DP332 Compound Action Pruner - scoring a whopping 93% overall and second place with 86% for the DP1033 Expert Bypass Pruner (small) is a major coup, especially since the other tool contenders were  all well known household names.

 Darlac Ltd has been steadily growing as a company for many years and has a huge following with gardening enthusiasts up and down the country. Its trade sales have recently been reported as being up by 49 % in the first five months of trading as the company continues to grow at a rapid rate.

 For more information visit www.darlac.com, email sales@darlac.com or call 01753 547790.

Stewart Garden  is urging retailers to stock up on quality assured British manufactured electric propagators in readiness for the growing season.

With ISO/TS16949 certification, repeatability of quality across every product manufactured by Stewart Garden at its state-of-the-art 178,000 manufacturing facility in Banbury is guaranteed.

Stewart Garden Essentials - Electric Propagator

The Stewart Garden Essentials Electric Propagator is available in two sizes, 38cm 52cm. Each comes with a long life economical 8 watt heater.

This simple to use propagator has a simple on/off control and includes a rigid thermoform cover.

• 38cm Essentials Electric Propagator, RRP (recommended retail price) £24.99
• 52cm Essentials Electric Propagator, RRP £34.99

Stewart Garden Premium Thermostatic Control Electric Propagator

The Stewart Garden Thermostatic Control Electric Propagator maintains temperature between 18^oC and 23^oC with its long life economical 22 watt heater.

Included is a guide to successful propagation and a starter kit comprising: a large seed tray, two small seed trays, and 10 flower pots.

• 38cm Premium Thermostatic Control Electric Propagator, RRP £39.99
• 52cm Premium Thermostatic Control Electric Propagator, RRP £54.99

 
Stewart Garden Premium Variable Control Electric Propagator

A favourite of the popular gardening broadcaster and writer, Pippa Greenwood, the 52cm Variable Control Electric Propagator is part of Stewart Garden’s premium range.

Variable temperature control allows users to choose a precise temperature between 12^oC and 28^oC for optimum germination.

The propagator features an energy efficient 50 watt heater and an automatic reset thermostat. Also included is a guide to successful propagation.

•  52cm Premium Variable Control Electric Propagator, RRP £89.99

 
Gavin Wray, channel manager at Stewart Garden, said: “Consumers are becoming more tech savvy, so we’re evolving to meet their changing needs.”

In 2011 Stewart Garden’s Heat and Grow Thermostatic Propagator came top in the Which? Gardening Best Buy windowsill propagators test.

For more information, visit www.stewart-garden.co.uk.

An exciting opportunity has arisen within our flagship store for a highly motivated and experienced Retail Manager to join the Blue Diamond Group. 

We are currently recruiting for a Centre Manager for Redfields Garden Centre in Fleet. 

Blue Diamond Group is one of the UK’s largest Garden Centre Groups, turning over £70m annually with centres throughout the UK and in the Channel Islands.

Whilst having responsibility for the management of the Garden Centre, the successful candidate will be able to recognise sales trends in detail from our reports package and use this information to improve sales performance and the profitability through replenishment and merchandising. 

Only candidates with retail experience and commercial skills will be considered, in order to ensure that sales are driven and that the level of service exceeds customer expectations. 

The salary is dependent upon experience.

Should you require any further information regarding this role, or wish to apply for the position, please contact the HR department on recruitment@bluediamond.gg

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a highly motivated and experienced Retail Manager to join the Blue Diamond Group.  We are currently recruiting for a Centre Manager for St Peters Garden Centre in Jersey. 

Blue Diamond Group is one of the UK’s largest Garden Centre Groups, turning over £70m annually with centres throughout the UK and in the Channel Islands.

Whilst having responsibility for the management of the Garden Centre, the successful candidate will be able to recognise sales trends in detail from our reports package and use this information to improve sales performance and the profitability of the through replenishment and merchandising.

Only candidates with retail management experience and commercial skills will be considered, in order to ensure that sales are driven and that the level of service exceeds customer expectations. 

The salary is dependent upon experience, however up to £50,000 plus benefits.

Should you require any further information regarding this role, or wish to apply for the position, please contact the HR department on recruitment@bluediamond.gg

http://www.bluediamond.gg/

I am currently looking for a talented site manager who is looking for a challenge. 

The role will be managing a large site in the midlands. 

This role is highly confidential at the moment and more details will be provided upon receipt of application.

For a confidential discussion, please call Brad Peck at MorePeople on 01780 480530 quoting reference #7000

• Are you a talented, experienced, business-focused account manager?
• Do you have a proven track record in developing long-term, profitable relationships with customers?
• Are you a strong team player - someone who can bring fresh ideas, excellent communication skills and plenty of energy to an already dynamic sales team?
• Are you hungry to take your career to the next level within a fast-growing family-owned business?

STV, the UK's leading supplier of pest control products to garden and hardware stores, is looking to recruit an experienced Key Accounts Manager with an impressive contacts book and extensive knowledge of the UK homes and gardens sector.

This office based role is exciting and varied. You will be expected to:

• manage and develop selected national accounts in line with STV’s overall business plan
• build on STV's existing category-leading position
• work with senior managers and STV's commercial team to contribute to the overall sales, marketing and NPD strategies
• provide accurate but challenging revenue, volume and profit forecasts – and achieve them

Think you can do that? Then we’d love to hear from you. Send your CV and covering letter to marketing@stvpestcontrol.com. A full job description is available on request.

         

www.stvpestcontrol.com 

I am currently seeking a bright plant area retailer to join the team at a large award winning independent. 

I am seeking candidates with previous plant retail experience who can join a challenging environment. 

Horticultural qualifications are preferred but experience in a garden centre will also be of interest. 

Candidates must be excellent at customer service and will be keen to take on a role where excellence is expected.

To discuss further, please call Brad Peck at MorePeople on 01780 480530 quoting reference #6881

My client is a large independent garden centre with an excellent reputation in the industry.

They are currently looking for a talented horticulturist with good retail experience to join their team.

You will be responsible for leading a team in the shrub area of the plantarea, and will be responsible for maintaining quality of both the customer service and the plants.

The planteria team must have excellent plant knowledge and would be able to potentially cover other areas outside of shrubs.

For a confidential discussion, please call Brad Peck at MorePeople on 01780 480530 quoting reference #6291

Serial adventurer, motivational speaker and Scouting ambassador James Ketchell will deliver an inspirational talk after the APL Awards presentation on Friday 13 March at The Brewery, London.

The annual awards ceremony, sponsored by Bradstone, will recognise and reward the pioneering landscaping carried out by APL members.

An extreme triathlete, 2014 saw James become the first and only person to have rowed across the Atlantic Ocean, successfully summit Mount Everest and cycle 18,000 miles around the world.

Seven years prior to this, he was recovering from a serious motorcycle accident that left him with broken legs as well as a severely broken and dislocated ankle.

James will talk with candour and enthusiasm about his response to that challenge and the way he has, in his words, “without doing anything special”, set about physical tasks that most of us can only imagine experiencing.

Now its time to book your place at the main event in the APL calendar! Tickets are £95, but if you are an APL member, ticket are reduced to just £75. Book online now at www.aplawards.co.uk to be amongst the first to hear the winners announced.

This year sees the 20th Anniversary of the APL Awards  and to kick the celebration off in style, the Awards are taking place at the Brewery, London, EC1Y 4SD, on Friday 13 March from 10:30am and the event will be hosted by James Alexander-Sinclair.

The new venue is just a 10 minute walk from Moorgate underground station, and will combine the best of the UK landscaping industry, a delicious three course lunch, and presentation of the APL Awards. 

There will be an Awards after party held at the Jugged Hare pub, located close to the venue.

The owner of Pyle Garden Centre in Bridgend had a driving ban overturned because of worries about the future of his business.

Michael James, of Newton Nottage Road, Porthcawl was caught speeding on March 19 last year on the A40 at Pencraig on his way to Ross-on-Wye.

The 44-year-old appeared at Hereford Magistrates Court on December 1 and was fined £320, ordered to pay costs of £117 and disqualified from driving for six months.

But he appeared at Hereford Crown Court to appeal the driving disqualification as he said he needed to drive to keep his business afloat.

The court heard he had run the Pyle Garden Centre in Bridgend with his wife since 2012, and employed 28 to 30 people.

He drives 30,000 miles a year visiting suppliers and collecting stock for his fledgling business.

Since his disqualification, he said it has been very difficult, especially as their busiest time of year is coming up from March to May.

James told the court there was nobody else at the centre who could visit suppliers as they all have key roles, yet they cannot afford to employ a full time driver.

He said he worried he would have to let some staff go if he cannot visit suppliers.

He said: "It is not viable if I can't get the stock in."

The company turns over £1million a year with a 1.2% profit.

Judge Toby Hooper and two magistrates sitting in the crown court accepted exceptional hardship and expunged the disqualification.

James will go back on the road with 10 points on his licence.

The Q1 issue of HTA Market Update, published this week, reveals healthy garden centre sales performance for the last quarter of 2014, with overall 2014 sales exceeding those in 2013. 

Weather had less of an influence on garden centre sales as the greatest drive can be seen coming from Christmas stock and gifts.

In comparison to the last quarter of 2013; average garden retail sales were higher in the same quarter in 2014.  November sales were 15% higher than in November 2013. Overall yearly garden centre sales ended 2014 up by 11% on 2013. The greatest drivers for garden centre sales in Q4 2014 were Christmas products and Gifts & Lifestyle products. In the Christmas category alone, average garden centre sales were up 24% in November 2014 compared to the previous year. This trend continued into December and shows how the Christmas category influences garden centre sales.

The HTA Market Update report, which is now published quarterly, monitors changes that would impact garden centre sales. The feature in this issue looks at consumer behaviours and technology. It provides some of the latest facts, figures and trends in technology, and in particular how it’s affecting shopping among consumers aged over 45, who tend to spend the most on gardening.

Download HTA Market Update here:  http://www.the-hta.org.uk/file.php?fileid=2756  

Taylors continue to dominate the GTN Bestsellers Veg-2-Gro chart, filling the top nine places  with onion sets, seed potatoes and garlic but the biggest movers this week are vegetable seed packets.

• Thompson & Morgan have 23 varieties in the chart, with Beetroot Boltardy moving into the Top 10.
• Carrot Kelly is the highest climber, jumping 38 places to No 11, while Tomato Gardeners Delight is the highest re-entry at No 15.
• The highest new entry is T&M’s Broad Bean de Monica at No 23.
• Suttons Tomato F1 Sweet Million is a re-entry along with their Tomato Starter Kit.
• At the top of the chart, Taylors Onion Sets Stuttgarter moves into the prime position.

A Writtle College postgraduate has won a major student award for her garden design which aims to support those facing mental health issues.

Jiyoung Kim, from South Korea, who graduated with an MA in Garden Design last year, overcame strong competition to be joint winner of the Society of Garden Designers’ Student Award. 

Jiyoung was presented with the esteemed gong from SGD - the only professional association for garden designers in the UK - at its awards ceremony at the end of January.

She said: “I’m thrilled to have won such an amazing award from the Society of Garden Designers. It’s great to receive such wonderful recognition for my work from such a prestigious organisation.

“I look forward to continuing my work back in South Korea and inspiring others with what I have learnt from the Society and Writtle College.”

Jiyoung’s garden design, called Deep Simplicity, represents the notion that underlying all of life’s chaos is a simple order based on Heidegger’s philosophy that humans should be aware of life and death.

“Humans can regain the simple truth of life through deep thought and contemplation, even though we may lose our direction in life,” she explains.

“The infinity symbol within the design is to promote hope and order in people’s minds; a metaphor of infinite thoughts and coexistence with other living creatures. This garden is proposed as a place for finding the true nature of existence, accomplished through experiences of walking and contemplating.”

The judging panel included renowned garden designers Sarah Eberle and Philippa O'Brien as well as Arabella St. John Parker, from Homes & Gardens magazine. The panel was looking for outstanding design skills and, importantly, a clear demonstration of an understanding of the brief provided for the project.

The judges said of Jiyoung’s design: “Incredibly impressive design. Ingenious use of existing site. A dynamic design that creatively integrates with the existing site.  A phenomenally challenging concept. A mature approach to dealing with the sheer scale of the site.”

Dr Saruhan Mosler, Jiyoung’s MA dissertation supervisor, congratulated her, saying: “We congratulate Jiyoung on her success with the project. Jiyoung worked hard on this challenging subject that was also part of her MA Garden Design dissertation.

“Competitions offer an excellent opportunity to students as they help them to build their portfolio and gain experience within the design industry.”

To find out more about the MA Garden Design at Writtle College, visit www.writtle.ac.uk

Jack’s Magic from Westland continues its domination at the top of the GTN Bestsellers Growing Media chart although most buying activity is vegetable growing related.

• The highest climber is Westland Gro-Sure Vegetable Compost (50 litres), moving up 20 places to No 11.
• Meanwhile, the highest re-entry is Arthur Bowers Grow Bag at No 9.
• There are two new entries this week, Westland John Innes No 3 Mature Plants (35 litres) at No 24 and Carbon Gold Biochar Soil Improver (pictured) at No 50.

A giant snowdrop has appeared at Painswick Rococo Garden in the Cotswolds over the winter.

This 18th century garden is known nationally for its spectacular display of snowdrops that carpet the grounds. However this year a 7ft high mosaic sculpture is set to dominate the display.

Created by artist, Victoria Harrison, the sculpture is made from thousands of small pieces of glass which sparkle in the winter sun.

Victoria specialises in environmental sculpture and is based in Malvern, Worcestershire. She is also displaying two other pieces inspired by inspirational poems, ‘Fall, leaves fall’ by Emily Bronte and ‘Why do birds sing?’ by Robert Service.

Paul Moir, CEO at Painswick Rococo Garden, first encountered Victoria’s work at the RHS Malvern Spring Show.

“I saw the giant snowdrop as I was walking around the show, fell in love with it and just knew we had to display it during our snowdrop season. Fortunately Victoria was just as keen,” said Paul.

Victoria’s work will remain on show until the end of March.

However Painswick is not just a spring garden. It dates from the early 18th century period of Rococo design, when gardens were almost theatrical sets where gentlefolk took their house guests into for what at times could become wild and romantic parties.

The garden is open daily until the end of October. 

For further information please visit websites www.rococogarden.org.uk  and  www.living-mosaics.com

Garden RELEAF is looking good with around 100 Garden Centres participating around Australia.

Key suppliers are being very supportive too. Leigh Siebler reports "this will be a major promotion for garden centres in Australia and Jeff Kennett from beyondblue is working closely with us on publicity."

Have a look at www.gardenreleaf.com.au          

Yankee Candle has unveiled Scenterpiece, the newest innovation in the wax melt market.

The latest innovation to launch into the wax melt market, Scenterpiece simplifies Flameless home fragrancing into one easy process, allowing customers to enjoy and quickly swap out their favourite fragrances without the cooling, scraping and pouring normally associated with traditional melt warmers.

The stylish and easy-to-use wax Easy MeltCups work with Yankee Candle’s Scenterpiece Easy MeltCup Warmers. Designed to be heat-resistant so it remains cool to the touch, the new MeltCup system keeps wax contained within the MeltCup, meaning that fragrances can be changed quickly and with ease.

The new Warmer features a flameless heater that quickly melts the wax and distributes Yankee Candle true-to-life fragrances evenly around the room for up to 24 hours per Easy MeltCup.

“Yankee Candle knows the important role home fragrance plays in helping consumers to create their ideal home ambience,” says Hannah Jenkins, brand and marketing director for Yankee Candle (International).

“Scenterpiece will allow consumers to enjoy their favourite fragrances with a brand new, decorative home accessory which provides the option of changing fragrances, hassle-free and within seconds.”

The Scenterpiece range offers the very best in contemporary design, through its on-trend tonal palette and choice of five contemporary vessels. The collection includes Noah in Grey and Black, Mia in Teal, Weave in White and Robyn in Grey-White. Each Warmer features its own distinctive finish; Noah has been embellished with a tactile wave-effect texture, Mia features a pattern of interlocking diagonal lines, Weave offers an intricate woven pattern and Robyn is embellished with an eye-catching zigzag design. 

The Easy MeltCups are available in a variety of 20 signature Yankee Candle fragrances; Fluffy Towels, Clean Cotton, Midnight Jasmine, Christmas Cookie, Vanilla Cupcake, Mango Peach Salsa, Cinnamon Stick, Black Cherry, Christmas Eve, Red Apple Wreath, Sparkling Cinnamon, Midsummer’s Night, Pink Sands, Lemon Lavender, Turquoise Sky, Pineapple Cilantro, Sparkling Snow, Red Raspberry, Candy Cane Lane and Home Sweet Home.

Highlight the new collection in store with branded support materials and lead your customers to discover world full of ground-breaking home fragrancing. 

For further information on Scenterpiece, contact the Yankee Candle Customer Care Team today on 0117 316 1200 or you can view the current collection at www.yankeecandle.co.uk

The HTA will be holding Cost Reduction Programme (CRoP) Clinics at the end of February, where HTA members can meet CRoP partners and learn how to reduce costs to their business.

Two free events will take place over two days providing the opportunity for members to network, meet their Regional Business Manager and find out about the savings available to them through their HTA membership.

CRoP partners including 2Circles, Alpha Packaging, B2B Links, Barclaycard, Citation, Ecovision, Garden Radio, HTA Utilities, Paskett PR, SWR and HTA Insurance will present their business offers and will also be available to chat one-to-one with members.

Members are advised to bring bills and statements in order to make the most of this opportunity to save money and reduce their business costs.

A free lunch will be provided by the venue for attendees at the events which take place on:

• Tuesday 24 February, Gardman Showroom, Peterborough
• Wednesday 25 February, William Sinclair, Ellesmere Port

To reserve places members are advised to contact their Regional Business Manager.

Gardman: Andrew Whelan Andrew.whelan@the-hta.org.uk  07850 721429

William Sinclair: Andrew Dunkley Andrew.dunkley@the-hta.org.uk 07540 126463

Following the release of latest figures showing that there are twice as many empty shops in the North than the South, a leading marketing expert has called on retailers to adapt to meet the rapid change in consumer shopping habits. 

Professor Heiner Evanschitzky, Chair of Marketing at Aston Business School, says that as online shopping grows, physical stores are becoming increasingly less relevant to consumers.

Professor Evanschitzky comments: “Retail competition has been hotting up in recent years with the growth of discount retailers and online services. As a result, too much floor space has accumulated. 

"The Big Four supermarkets have already taken action by introducing smaller stores in key commuter belts, meeting our need for ‘what we need, when we need it’, express-style shopping. 

"But the heavy investment in smaller stores has led to an oversupply, with store openings in less than ideal locations. It’s therefore no surprise that stores are failing to attract customers and having to close their doors.”

Professor Evanschitzky is urging High Street retailers to radically rethink their business models, moving away from the traditional concept of a shop in its entirety. 

“The High Street needs to move away from being a place where we physically buy ‘stuff’ to being a place where we can find inspiration and experience what we’re interesting in buying. 

"Retailers should open more ‘brand experience showrooms’, presenting brands and letting customers try them out in a relaxed, pressure-free environment. Customers would then be encouraged to go online to buy. 

"This is the model Apple have been following, with the company now holding more cash than the US government. This approach will make the High Street a destination to become inspired, motivated and informed, putting it back into the heart of the community, boosting the fortunes of retailers and giving customers what they want.”

New Covent Garden Flower Market, the team behind the ground-breaking annual campaign to promote British flowers and foliage, have announced that British Flowers Week 2015 will run from Monday 15 June to Friday 19 June 2015.

Now in its third year, British Flowers Week is the national celebration of seasonal, locally-grown flowers that is uniting the UK cut flower industry and inspiring the public to think about where their flowers come from.

British-grown flowers are estimated to represent just 15% of the £2bn worth of flowers sold in the UK every year, and yet they have the multiple benefits of being seasonal, local, fragrant, freshly picked and, quite simply, beautiful.

Today, British flowers are enjoying a long-awaited resurgence in popularity prompted by the boom in artisan flower growers (such as Flowers from the Farm and the British Flowers Collective) and the success of programmes by BBC Gardener’s World’s Rachel de Thame, Sarah Raven and Allotment Challenge judge, Jonathon Moseley.

During British Flowers Week 2015, growers and florists across the country will be staging pop-up shops and demonstrations, creating window-displays and special British Flowers Week bouquets, and decorating hotels, restaurants and events with British flowers.

At the heart of #BritishFlowersWeek will be a series of specially commissioned floral designs by five foremost florists at London’s New Covent Garden Flower Market, where British flowers and foliage have been traded for generations. (Pictured right: Lisianthus by Okishima & Simmonds. British Flowers Week 2015.)

About British Flowers Week

• British Flowers Week is the brainchild of the team at New Covent Garden Flower Market, the UK’s largest Flower Market and the hub for British grown flowers and foliage for centuries.
• Originally designed as a social media campaign for the floristry trade, #BritishFlowersWeek was quickly picked up by florists, growers, wholesalers and media the length and breadth of Britain.
• Last year, the hashtag #BritishFlowersWeek achieved a staggering Twitter reach of 1.4 million with British flowers content posted online, on social media, in print and on the radio.

Read a round-up of British Flowers Week 2014 here

BOPP, the certification scheme for ornamental horticulture in the UK, has released a new version of the Grower Standard (previously known as UKAS Grower Standard).

The new standard has achieved equivalent status to the GLOBALG.A.P. Integrated Farm Assurance (IFA) Standard Edition 4.0. The achievement of benchmarking to GLOBALG.A.P. demonstrates that the BOPP Grower Standard sets internationally accepted safe and sustainable good agricultural practice.

Announcing the news, Anna Cook, BOPP Scheme Manager says: “We are pleased to release the new version of the BOPP Grower Standard following eighteen months of intensely reviewing the requirements.

"The achievement of GLOBALG.A.P. equivalency is very significant for the BOPP Scheme as it demonstrates we set internationally accepted good agricultural practices, which are a minimum standard for many multiple retailers.

"The new standard introduces criteria for senior management commitment, managing suppliers, labelling procedures, crisis planning, sustainability and ethical trading standards.

As well as introducing new requirements we have reviewed the level of compliance moving a number of criteria from minor to major, which will make the inspection more challenging to pass.

The order of the standard has been re-worked to follow a more logical flow and wording has been harmonised with the packhouse standard to assist members who are certificated to both standards.

To assist members to gain certification we have added technical guidance notes to the standard and will be providing a number of templates on the BOPP website.”

 BOPP is an international standard, which sets high requirements of professionalism in the way in which certificated businesses operate and through unbiased and effective evaluation (by an United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) accredited Certification Body where applicable) to ensure that these standards are maintained. The ultimate objective is to ensure that customers can have complete confidence in both product and service when dealing with BOPP Certificated suppliers.

 The BOPP standards are reviewed every three to four years and the release of the new Grower Standard is the result of eighteen months work by the BOPP Management Committee to update the standard and benchmark to the GLOBALG.A.P. IFA Standard. The committee have worked closely with stakeholders, including UK multiple retailers and the inspectors, to ensure that the standard continues to meet the needs of the sector.

The release of the standard will be accompanied by a toolbox of templates and guidance notes available to members only to assist them with meeting the requirements of the standard. Members will have three months from the release of the new standard to make the transition from version 1 to version 2.

Every week GTN receives and analyses epos data from a number of UK garden centres to produce the GTN Bestsellers charts and weekly bestsellers sales tips.

The full charts which provide useful insight into product sales peaks, new trends and new link sales opportunities are published in the weekly GTN Xtra printed newsletter.

As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2012 as well as 2013 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period.

Access is by subscription only.  For £145.00 per year you and your team can have access to the most upto date gardening sales analysis that has already helped many UK garden centres increase their sales.  To subscribe call 01733 775700, e-mail karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

Highlights of the GTN Garden Products Bestsellers chart for this week are here

Highlights of the GTN Veg-2-Gro Products Bestsellers chart for this week are here

Highlights of the GTN Growing Media Bestsellers chart for this week are here

WARNING the GTN Bestsellers Charts seriously improve the business of our subscribers.  Invest 15 minutes each week in improving your sales using the GTN Bestsellers charts and your turnover and customer satisfaction will improve too.