The Horticultural Trades Association has reported strong sales for garden centres in November, showing a 6% increase compared to 2023, even when excluding café and restaurant sales. 

This growth was driven by a combination of festive shopping and a robust catering offer. Notably, Christmas-related products alone accounted for 26% of total sales, marking a 21% increase compared to the same month last year.

Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, commented: "Despite the volatile weather, garden centres have remained a welcoming destination for customers, with a strong start to the Christmas shopping season and the ongoing popularity of our members’ café and restaurant offerings. Sales of real Christmas trees increased by 43%, artificial trees rose by 26%, and catering sales grew by 9%. It’s evident that garden centres provide a unique experience that keeps customers returning. Additionally, sales of Christmas lights rose by 18%, and tree decorations increased by 15%.

“While November featured five Saturdays and Black Friday, which may have shifted consumer spending earlier, the rise in Christmas sales reflects a buoyant seasonal spirit. This is supported by consumer confidence improving by three points in November, aided by stable CPIH inflation, which provided some relief to household finances.

“Appetite for gardening remained strong, with sales of plant care products rising by 14% and hardy plants, shrubs, and trees up 4% compared to November 2023. However, year-to-date garden/gardening sales ended November 4% down, highlighting the challenges posed by the poor weather throughout 2024.

“While year-to-date sales are up 1% compared to 2023, they fall to -1% when catering is excluded. This month’s accompanying State of Trade Review reveals significant cost pressures, with the Autumn Budget's increase in employer National Insurance contributions and the National Living Wage set to cost the sector £134 million in 2025. Two-thirds of members plan to increase prices, and many anticipate reducing capital investments or implementing recruitment freezes to manage these pressures.

"Our sector is facing some of the toughest economic pressures we’ve seen in years. While garden centres continually adapt and thrive, there is a limit to what they can endure. If our sector does not receive support, the impacts could be devastating—not just for the economy, but also for our communities and the environment."

Members can view further insights into November’s performance and the sector’s outlook, in this month’s Market Update and State of Trade Review on website.