In This Issue
Sales up by 49% compared to previous nine years, despite being closed for Easter Sunday
Thanks a million to you all from Peter Seabrook
Derek Bunker adds his thanks to suppliers for "their efforts throughout this amazing period in garden centre history"
Easter thank you to growers, manufacturers & distributors from British Garden Centres
Hozelock unveils new sprayers range for 2021
Plymouth Garden Centre installs WinRetail system
Hamac Trading offers complete display solution to make Christmas special
Garden Centres re-open in Scotland... and it snows!
Wildlife Trusts call for immediate end to peat sales
Immediate ban on peat use unrealistic, says HTA
March sales break all records
East Yorkshire garden centre sells for £1.5m
Dobbies unveils Spring advertising campaign
Wyevale Nurseries sees record sales in all sectors
Plant sales soar to record high
National Plant Show 2021 postponed
Blue Diamond Group announces exclusive partnership with The Soil Association
Flymo and Gardena partner with Evergreen
Ball Colegrave introduces 2021 Autumn Portfolio
Bradstone launches first low carbon paving range
Scatter seeds for a brighter year ahead, says Seedball
Garden centre invests in leadership skills training
Inside Outside... A New Beginning for the garden market - Read GTN's March Issue on-line now
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra
GIMA Charity Golf Day returns this summer
Garden centre chef fakes invoices totalling more than £14,000, court hears
Garden reunions set the pace for product sales
Mad March sales for growing media
Wild Bird Care up by 11%
PlantSavers deliver more than just plants
D-Grade Fibre trays extended
Haddonstone recognised in leading industry awards
The GIMA Awards are back!
George brings the first-ever RHS kids’ clothing line to Asda stores
Royal Horticultural Society calls on public to help map sweet chestnut trees
The best of last week's
Garden centres report busiest ever day as gardens are the focus for family re-unions this week - More comments added
Suez Canal blockage causes further delays for garden furniture
Cherry Lane acquires Langford Garden Centre
little dobbies opens its doors in Bristol
DJ Turfcare responds to Monty Don’s call to stop mowing our lawns
Barton Grange Christmas 2020 - Exclusive GTN Xtra Photo Tour
Squires Badshot Lea - Christmas 2020
Perrywood at Christmas 2020 - with correct photo gallery now...
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week
Buy your subscription to the GTN Bestsellers printed weekly newsletter
All the latest news from the world of pet products
Interpet launches new LED lighting range to make fish shine and aid plant growth
Major pet companies book stands at PATS Telford
Vet charity urges pet owners to be vigilant over Easter
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Sales up by 49% compared to previous nine years, despite being closed for Easter Sunday

Top line GTN Bestsellers analysis from last week shows that for the first Easter week of 2021 total volume sales dropped by 1.4%, but as centres were only open for 6 days rather than seven that equates to being about 12% up like for like...


Top line GTN Bestsellers analysis from last week shows that for the first Easter week of 2021 total volume sales dropped by 1.4%, but as centres were only open for 6 days rather than seven that equates to being about 12% up like for like.

 

Most importantly sales were up 63% on the same week from 2019 and 46% higher than the average for the nine years 2011 – 2019.

 

See the full GTN Bestsellers analysis and the Top 50 Bestsellers charts for Garden Products, All Plants, Growing Media and Veg 2 Gro in the GTN Bestsellers printed weekly newsletter.  Subscribe here.

 
GCA 2019 - Monday 210119_GTN011.jpg
Thanks a million to you all from Peter Seabrook

Peter Seabrook has sent a note of thanks to all those in the horticultural trade who have helped and supported his efforts to encourage more folk to garden and grow plants through difficult times...


Dear Trevor,

 

Could I also offer public thanks to all those in the horticultural trade who have helped and supported my efforts to encourage more folk to garden and grow plants through difficult times.  While it is difficult to name them all, those who have provided cash sponsorship and plants, to bring so much colour into the Floral Fantasia area at the RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Essex deserve full trade recognition.

 

If only they could hear the comments from the visiting public who love the seasonal colour now evident year round. Only today a message from Garden Writer Margot Bishop “Floral Fantasia Garden at Hyde Hall has now become one of our favourites.  There is always so much colour through out the year and we really enjoy the annual trials, something the Robinsons would have welcomed”.

 

None of this would have been possible without such generous trade support.

 

Anyone growing and/or retailing pansies should certainly visit to see the 277 cultivars of Pansy being trialled under garden conditions from 11 leading international breeding companies.  This pansy trial is unique, providing all the colours in the rainbow and very wide variety in flower form, to lift everyone’s spirit, even in the current biting cold wind.

 

Thanks a million to you all, Peter.

Derek Bunker adds his thanks to suppliers for "their efforts throughout this amazing period in garden centre history"

 

After reading Charles Stubbs Easter message in GTN Xtra on Easter Monday, Derek Bunker, who is celebrating 50 years of Alton Garden Centre contacted the GTN team to pass on his thanks to all suppliers and staff too...


After reading Charles Stubbs Easter message in GTN Xtra on Easter Monday, Derek Bunker, who is celebrating 50 years of Alton Garden Centre contacted the GTN team to pass on his thanks to all suppliers and staff too:

 

"I would like to join Charles Stubbs in thanking our suppliers for their efforts throughout this amazing period in garden centre history. Nobody has ever seen anything like the demand over the last 12 months, which is still ongoing.

 

"Some suppliers have at last seen the light that if we are working weekends to sell their products during busy times, they should support us by also working weekends.

 

"I think we all accept that, although it has been a terrible time with Covid for those that have lost loved ones, we have been so fortunate to be allowed to open and give the public somewhere to go that is relatively safe.

 

"As a consequence, garden centres have picked up a lot of new customers. They've discovered we are much more than just a plant supplier with a few tools and chemicals.

 

"Without the support of our manufacturers and suppliers, we would have missed a golden opportunity. They, along with our own great staff, have helped to carry us through a very difficult period. And when we come out the other side, we should be better businesses than we were a year ago."

 

If you'd also like to add your thanks and thoughts please use the comments link below or e-mail: trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk

 

 

Easter thank you to growers, manufacturers & distributors from British Garden Centres

 

 

The team at British Garden Centres took the opportunity of a brief lull in trading on Easter Sunday to express their huge thanks to their industry friends for their help in the last year...


The team at British Garden Centres took the opportunity of a brief lull in trading on Easter Sunday to express their huge thanks to their industry friends for their help in the last year.

 

“Without the incredible support of our suppliers and industry friends we wouldn’t have achieved so much in this most unusual of times,” commented Charles Stubbs, joint MD. “We have all faced our challenges but the growers, manufacturers and distributors have worked so hard to ensure we have been able to flourish.”

 

“When I think back to Easter Sunday 2020, when we were deep in lockdown 1, not even my most optimistic hopes could foresee what was to come! Despite furlough, material shortages and social distancing everyone has done so well to service the needs of our ever growing customer base. Launching our ‘Family Card’ last month was a delight as it gives us an opportunity to properly welcome everyone in to the BGC family.”

 

Charles, Robert, Phillippa & Amy Stubbs along with Antony Harker and his family and their extended family of 2,500 colleagues have spent the last year investing time, energy and money in the group’s 58 centres to ensure they’re set to best serve their local communities. Projects have ranged from the creation of new restaurants at the likes of Tarporley, Tring and Shipley Park to the complete remodelling of Burford House and opening of Thatcham. Work is progressing well at the latest acquisition, Harrogate Garden Centre, with it set to open in late April.

 

Final word from Charles turns to his colleagues: “Without the amazing team, which are really all family to me, we couldn’t have got through everything so successfully in the last year. We know that many of them and our customers have had difficult times and our thoughts are with them. Thank you to each and every one of them for facing the challenges in such good spirit.”

 

And his final, final word… “I’ll be forever grateful to our suppliers but it doesn’t mean I’ll go easy on them when it comes to negotiating!”

Hozelock unveils new sprayers range for 2021
GTN Xtra Promotion

Hozelock has launched a brand new range of sprayers for 2021, which includes small handheld triggers sprayers, pressure sprayers and knapsack and syringe sprayers, as well as a 15L electric sprayer to offer constant spray at the touch of a button - meaning there is a product for every gardener and gardening need...


 

Sprayers are a key piece of equipment for many gardeners as they offer an easy way to keep up with garden maintenance and can also be used to administer feed to difficult to reach areas of the garden. However, not all gardeners are aware of the different uses and benefits of using sprayers and this presents an opportunity for garden centre retailers to raise awareness and create desire.  

 

One of the main benefits of a sprayer is that they offer excellent coverage, but also allow a more sustainable approach to controlling weeds as problematic areas can be targeted directly. In addition to protecting plants and controlling weeds, sprayers can also be used for cleaning tasks and to mist plants. 

 

 

Hozelock has launched a brand new range of sprayers for 2021, which includes small handheld triggers sprayers, pressure sprayers and knapsack and syringe sprayers, as well as a 15L electric sprayer to offer constant spray at the touch of a button - meaning there is a product for every gardener and gardening need. 

 

The new Pulsar Plus, which is available in three sizes, has been designed with superior features to provide gardeners optimal comfort during use. The two handed pumping handle and tank base for stability gives the users more control when pumping and the adjustable strap and ergonomic carry handle allows the sprayer to be comfortably transported. 

 

For garden centre retailers looking to offer a range of sprayers, the Pulsar Plus is a key product and features Hozelock’s must-have spraying accessory – the innovative new Multi Nozzle. To help gardeners spray more precisely and efficiently, the unique Multi Nozzle offers the user three nozzles in one to ensure the user always has a suitable spray pattern for the specific treatment. 

 

Visit Hozelock’s full sprayers range here: https://www.hozelock.com/product-category/spraying/

Plymouth Garden Centre installs WinRetail system
GTN Xtra Promotion

Plymouth Garden Centre, a traditional family run centre in Devon, has just installed Corby + Fellas’ WinRetail system...


Plymouth Garden Centre, a traditional family run centre in Devon, has just installed Corby + Fellas’ WinRetail system.

 

The garden centre has been inspiring people to love their gardens since 1963. 

 

Most of the centre’s plants are sourced from local nurseries who provide regular and often weekly deliveries of fresh stock. They are pleased to support West Country growers with some of the finest specimens grown locally.

 

Plymouth Garden Centre offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and on hand to answer customers’ queries. Many have been with the garden centre for over 10 years and some 40 years!

 

The centre has been established for 57 years and are four times winners of the 'Investors in People Award'.

 

Corby + Fellas is delighted to be working with Plymouth Garden Centre and looks forward to a bright future with them.

Hamac Trading offers complete display solution to make Christmas special
GTN Xtra Promotion

Hamac Displays have significantly expanded their display business and are now offering customers a full range of products to create new complete scenes, as well and individual props to enhance their own displays and interact with customers...


1 Display Portfolio

Hamac Displays are a separate division of Hamac Trading Company. We have significantly expanded our display business and are now offering customers a full range of products to create new complete scenes, as well and individual props to enhance their own displays and interact with customers. Products include Display Models manufactured in Fiberglass, Metal and Plush materials. The range also includes Animatronics, Artificial Plants & Trees, Cargo Netting, Artificial Grasses and Backdrops. Hamac Displays are your one-stop shop for display. 

Order before 30th April 2021 to benefit from current prices.

Click to view Showroom tour

 

 

2 Hansa Creation

Hamac Displays are also the sole distributor of Hansa Creation Products in the UK and Ireland. Hansa are universally recognised as the world’s most realistic “plush” animal manufacturer with Hamac Displays being Hansa’s Premier Distributor of Animatronics. From Hansa as well as Animatronic products, the full Hansa range of static products can be supplied to complement displays. 

For more information on becoming a Hansa retail stockist please contact Hamac sales office.

Click to view Showroom tour

 

3 Creation Group

Hamac Trading is proud to announce our new partnership with Creation Group. We are now the Exclusive Distributor for Creation Group in the UK and Ireland. Creation Group are the world’s leading manufacturer of Animatronic figures, who have over 55 years of experience in the industry. For further information on Creation Group products, dedicated catalogues, videos and pricing please contact the office direct. 

Many products are stocked in the UK for immediate delivery.

Click to view Showroom tour

 

Contact Hamac Sales Office on Tel : 028 25 831201 or E : sales@hamactrading.com www.hamactrading.com

Garden Centres re-open in Scotland... and it snows!

After waiting patiently to be given permission to re-open, garden centres in Scotland have welcomed customers back in store this morning for the first time... and sods law has been invoked with it snowing...

 


After waiting patiently to be given permission to re-open, garden centres in Scotland have welcomed customers back in store this morning for the first time... and sods law has been invoked with it snowing.

 

Sandy at Munro's in Inverness told GTN Xtra: "Unfortunately it’s snowing here but that doesn’t seem to be stopping them... Keen gardeners here!"

 

In the run up to todays re-opening Dobbies Graeme Jenkins said: "We welcome this updated guidance from the Scottish Government, enabling us to reopen our stores. The safety of our team members and customers remains Dobbies’ number one priority.

 

“Spring is the time when people want to get back out into their gardens, and with proven health and wellbeing benefits, reopening in Scotland is a positive development.”

 

And Colin Barrie at Caulders posted this video message for his customers: https://www.facebook.com/caulderskirkintilloch/posts/2905323013060574

 

Wildlife Trusts call for immediate end to peat sales

A new survey shows that only one of 20 leading garden retailers contacted by The Wildlife Trusts reported that it would eliminate peat from its shelves this year – and the survey reveals an overall lack of ambition by retailers to set targets to end peat sales. Last year, the voluntary target set by the Government to end sales of peat composts to amateur gardeners was missed...


 

A new survey shows that only one of 20 leading garden retailers contacted by The Wildlife Trusts reported that it would eliminate peat from its shelves this year – and the survey reveals an overall lack of ambition by retailers to set targets to end peat sales. Last year, the voluntary target set by the Government to end sales of peat composts to amateur gardeners was missed.

 

This year the Government will decide if new legislation is needed to end peat use in the horticultural sector – but there is still no sign of their long-awaited peat strategy. The Wildlife Trusts are now calling for an immediate end to sales of peat compost – further delay will cause continued destruction of peatlands worldwide.

 

Calls to end peat use began over 30 years ago when people began to realise that peatlands are priceless – recognising them as precious places for wildlife, and more recently as habitats which capture and store carbon if managed well.

 

Some retailers are doing notably better in moving away from peat than others: of the 11 out of 20 retailers that responded to the survey, all now offer peat-free composts as part of their range, and none sell soil improvers or mulch containing peat. Travis Perkins and Wickes were the only two retailers to declare an end-date for peat sales – Travis Perkins by this year, and Wickes by 2025. But while a further few plan to end peat sales in the future, no dates have been specified and others have no clear commitments at all. Just four reported stocking ranges of peat-free plants.

 

Craig Bennett, chief executive of The Wildlife Trusts says: “Our survey shows that most retailers’ approach to the voluntary ban on peat sales has been woeful – even though the industry has been aware of the problem for decades. The time for voluntary agreements is over – the sale of peat must end now. Countless promises have been broken, and targets missed with the result that precious peatland habitats are still being unnecessarily destroyed in the name of gardening.

 

“Peatlands are vital wildlife habitats and it’s absolutely crucial that they remain intact to help us tackle climate change. The Government can ensure that these important carbon stores function as nature intended by banning peat sales now.

 

“Only one leading retailer – Travis Perkins – is planning to eliminate peat from its shelves by 2021, whilst growers like Hillier demonstrate that you can produce compost and grow high-quality plants without peat. These retailers are to be congratulated, but we now need Government to make the rest follow their lead. The time for delay and excuses is over.”

 

The Wildlife Trusts’ survey found:

  • Around 90% of Travis Perkins’ compost sales were peat-free in 2020 and the retailer is planning to go 100% peat-free during 2021. Wickes plan to phase out peat by 2025. These were the only two in the survey who set a date for ending peat sales.
  • B&Q, Hillier, and the Blue Diamond group of Garden Centres said they were committed to phasing out peat completely but gave no date.
  • Asda, Lidl and others have set themselves targets to reduce peat sales, but not yet to end them. Asda will remove peat from their own-brand products by 2030.
  • Four retailers stock peat-free plants: B&Q, Blue Diamond group, Hillier and Asda.
  • Hillier’s tree production is already peat-free, and the company are aiming for production of all other plants across their nurseries to be peat-free for 2022.
  • Of those who gave details of their peat-free items, all are offering at least one peat-free compost, and as products containing peat are usually cheaper to buy, several are price-matching these so that eco-conscious customers are not disadvantaged.
  • Last year B&Q launched their new peat-free compost made with coir and other ingredients. Hillier garden centres also introduced their own peat-free compost, and will be selling ‘Bloomin’ Amazing’, the by-product from an anaerobic digestion plant that provides eco-friendly heat, gas and electricity to 56,000 homes in Dorset. Wickes are launching a new peat-free product this year.
  • Blue Diamond stores stock 22 different peat-free growing media products, some of which are trials of new items at selected stores.
  • Half of the retailers contacted did not reply, and some that did respond were unable to answer all our questions.

 

Ten years ago, the Government set a voluntary target for the horticulture sector to end sales to gardeners by 2020 and to end professional use of peat, for example, in plant growing, by 2030. As this approach has failed, The Wildlife Trusts now believe that retailers should end consumer peat compost sales immediately and the target for professional growers should be brought forward to 2025. Monitoring showed that in 2019, peat still made up over 40% by volume of the growing media sold in the retail sector despite the 2020 target, whilst total peat use in horticulture (retail, professional and export) stood at over 2 million cubic metres.

 

Investment in alternatives is required to help retailers move away from peat, and a ‘Responsible Sourcing Scheme’ has been established to ensure that alternatives don’t come with their own eco-problems. Peat-free composts are now more widely available than ever and many give excellent results, with good advice also available on making your own compost at home. This means that although peat extraction is by no means the only cause of damage to our peatlands, it is one of the easiest to prevent.  

 

The Wildlife Trusts ask people to show the Government that they care by taking a ‘peat free pledge’ at wildlifetrusts.org/ban-sale-peat and also to support an immediate ban on peat-based products. Everyone is urged to check information on packaging to ensure that garden purchases are free of peat.

 

Pictured: Peat Bog, courtesy Mark Hamblin 2020 Vision

 
Immediate ban on peat use unrealistic, says HTA

James Barnes, Chairman of the Horticultural Trades Association, said: “The horticulture industry fully supports alternatives to peat. Manufacturers now produce more peat-free and peat-reduced growing media than ever, which are stocked and sold by retailers, but an immediate ban on peat use is unrealistic..."


James Barnes, Chairman of the Horticultural Trades Association, said: “The horticulture industry fully supports alternatives to peat. Manufacturers now produce more peat-free and peat-reduced growing media than ever, which are stocked and sold by retailers, but an immediate ban on peat use is unrealistic – access to the amount and quality of alternative materials needed is not yet in place.

 

"While just 0.04% of the UK’s peatlands are extracted for horticulture and the percentage use of peat by the industry is at a historic low, we know more needs to be done. That is why we have come together with other industry groups to propose a way forward. This work will be published soon, including establishing meaningful and realistic peat removal targets.

 

"We want to work collaboratively with government, NGOs and the whole supply chain to deliver viable, responsibly sourced alternative materials. Success is dependent upon government recognising the need to support the industry to bring to market new and novel alternative materials, as well helping to unlock the lack of availability of tried and tested alternatives. Only this approach will help deliver the gains we are all trying to achieve.” 

March sales break all records
Exclusive GTN Bestsellers analysis

Last week saw many centres reporting their busiest days and weeks ever, and with high volumes of furniture and BBQ sales being seen in the GTN Bestsellers Epos data, turnover will most certainly have set new records for the month, as did sales volumes...


 

Last week saw many centres reporting their busiest days and weeks ever, and with high volumes of furniture and BBQ sales being seen in the GTN Bestsellers Epos data, turnover will most certainly have set new records for the month, as did sales volumes.

 

Last week wasn’t quite a new record week for sales weekly sales volumes. Sales totals of several bank holiday weeks in previous years still sit higher. Provided supplies of plants and product hold up to demand it won’t be long before they are broken.

 

Veg-2-Gro sales have really taken off this year. Sales were not only double last year, but also double the average for the month since 2014.

 

Please note for the next seven weeks these year on year comparisons are vs 2019 as garden centres were closed for Lockdown #1 in 2020.

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week in 2019: week 13.

  • Garden Products Top 50 – up 31%
  • Growing Media Top 50 – up 49%
  • Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – up 66%
  • Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – up 1%

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week in 2019: week 13.

  • All Plants with Barcode index – up 20%
  • All Items with Barcode index – up 24%

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
East Yorkshire garden centre sells for £1.5m

California Gardens in East Yorkshire has been sold for £1.5m to two local businessmen who plan to invest more than £1m in the garden centre and create 15 new jobs...


California Gardens in East Yorkshire has been sold for £1.5m to two local businessmen who plan to invest more than £1m in the garden centre and create 15 new jobs.

 

Cameron Holroyd and Rob Hardcastle have plans for a new 250-cover restaurant plus other upgrades to the centre at Howden near Goole.

 

Mr Hardcastle owns several East Yorkshire landscaping and horticultural businesses, including Ellerker Lodge Garden Centre near Brough.

 

California Gardens has been owned by the Hall family since 1879 and is one of the UK's oldest garden centres.

 

Rob Hardcastle said: “California Gardens is very well known by everyone in the area and we’re thrilled to have bought an important piece of local history, which has been in the care of successive generations of the Hall family for over 140 years.

 

“Our aim is now to make garden centre even better, with a fantastic range of plants and garden accessories and an extension and upgrade of the café, which we have renamed the Olive Tree.

 

"We’re currently getting ready for the café’s reopening on April 12 and later this year plan to extend the space so that it seats 250 people and becomes a full restaurant, serving great home-cooked meals.”

Dobbies unveils Spring advertising campaign

Dobbies has unveiled its Spring advertising campaign for 2021. As people across the country begin to prep their outdoor spaces for the warmer months ahead, Springtime with Dobbies brings to life the positive feeling you get at home and in your outdoor space with your new gardening products...


 

Dobbies has unveiled its Spring advertising campaign for 2021. As people across the country begin to prep their outdoor spaces for the warmer months ahead, Springtime with Dobbies brings to life the positive feeling you get at home and in your outdoor space with your new gardening products.

 

Following Dobbies’ festive campaign, the Springtime strategic positioning once more encompasses the theme of Not Your Average Garden Centre. With the popularity of gardening booming in 2020 and reports of 3 million new gardeners across the UK, Dobbies’ new campaign highlights the impact gardening can have on your wellbeing, no matter the size of your indoor or outdoor gardening space.

 

In keeping with the look and feel of the 2020 Christmas advertising campaign, there are two hero TV ads which feature their own unique characters, including an energetic springer spaniel, Dora, revelling in her luscious back garden, and a young woman, Jess, bringing the outdoors in with a beautiful new houseplant.

 

Bright and bold, both adverts also feature uplifting, original music by Humphrey Sitiama and Jordan Byrd featuring Tabitha Westley on vocals, and music supervision from Wake The Town.

 

Graeme Jenkins, CEO of Dobbies said: “With our Spring advertising campaign, we’ve aimed to capture the way gardening and plants can enhance our mood and wellbeing – from the shopping experience at our stores to getting your gardening products home and using them to enhance whatever space you have. With the arrival of Spring, we wanted to showcase the fun and vibrancy of the changing seasons.

 

“The trends for grow you own, edible plants, houseplants, al fresco dining and family gardening are what we are seeing across the Dobbies’ estate and we are here to help people have success with their gardens.”

 

Following the 2020 Christmas campaign, the Spring campaign has been developed by London-based retail specialist ODD, who were appointed last year as Dobbies’ creative and strategic agency.

 

Nick Stickland, Executive Creative Director of ODD, said: “With Spring ushering in fresh starts and new beginnings, we wanted to help demonstrate the emotional and positive benefits that gardening and houseplants can bring to our everyday lives during a time when our wellbeing has never been more important.

 

“We're thrilled to help continue spreading the experience and joy of shopping at Dobbies nationwide, and provide people with that uplifting feeling that Spring has finally arrived.”

 

The Spring adverts are available to view:

 

Revelling in Spring https://youtu.be/PrSAWt5-Q9U

Outside In https://youtu.be/uixqJCtnkrM

 
Wyevale Nurseries sees record sales in all sectors

One of the UK’s leading commercial nurseries has revealed that it has seen record breaking plant sales since June last year and has just completed its best March ever. Managing director Andy Johnson (right) said: “We’ve seen strong demand in all sectors..."


 

One of the UK’s leading commercial nurseries has revealed that it has seen record breaking plant sales since June last year and has just completed its best March ever.

 

Wyevale Nurseries says it is seeing phenomenal orders coming through, which have stretched its capacity, but have also led to some of the most outstanding figures in its 91-year history.

 

Andy Johnson (above), Managing Director at Wyevale Nurseries in Hereford, explains: “We’ve seen strong demand in all sectors with outstanding sales since last June. They have been strong since then, all the way through, with regular record-breaking weeks until now and we’ve had an outstanding March.

 

“We will hit our £2.25 million month by Easter and we’re working hard to keep up with demand and to continue to meet all our customers’ orders and requests, so please rest assured it’s business as usual here, our range, however, is not as extensive as it traditionally is.   

 

“Demand has been buoyant because landscapers, developers, landowners, foresters and all those planting commercially have been able to continue throughout the lockdowns and restrictions, as they work outside where the risks are deemed to be minimal from Covid-19.

 

“We’ve also seen more demand from online retailers and garden centres requiring stock to help the nation’s army of gardeners who have been using their time at home to revamp and replenish their outdoor spaces.

 

“Retailers have been inundated with orders from the nation’s four million new gardeners who took up the pastime in 2020. Gardening is a vital hobby, as it has been proven by many experts to help boost mental and physical health and wellbeing, and for so many it has been a lifeline during the pandemic.

 

“Originally, at the start of the first lockdown last year, our container production was slightly reduced due to the timing, but production is now running well and we’re topping up stock.

 

“Our tree production is something that’s longer term, so it’s remained constant during the past 12 months. Our bare root season has almost finished, and we’ve had superb sell-through. We’re anticipating that next season’s production will be as normal, but demand is likely to be far higher than we’ve seen so far, so we’re planning for this.

 

“There’s been no reduction in demand for transplants this season and we’re working hard to maintain numbers for next season too. As we produce the majority of the items we sell, Brexit has had minimal direct impact on us.

 

“We still have reasonable numbers of container-grown trees and shrubs available that we’ve produced here in Hereford, but it’s a range more limited than we would typically have. Our retail lines are selling through quickly, in fact, as soon as they are available.”

Plant sales soar to record high

Plant sales soared to a record high for March, 127% up on last year when centres were closed for one week of the month but 57% up on March 2019...


 

Plant sales soared to a record high for March, 127% up on last year when centres were closed for one week of the month but 57% up on March 2019.

 

All Plants volume sales change: Week on week UP 20.2%.  Year to date vs 2020 UP 56.9%, vs  2019 UP 19.4%.

 

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
National Plant Show 2021 postponed

The HTA has announced that this year's National Plant Show will not happen but will instead come back next year, bigger and better than ever...


The HTA has announced that this year's National Plant Show will not happen but will instead come back next year, bigger and better than ever.

 

Following the Prime Minister’s Roadmap, the HTA has continually reviewed government advice and guidance to assess the feasibility of running the 2021 National Plant Show and after much deliberation, have decided we will sadly not be able to run the show this year.

 

Having considered the many factors that are essential to running a safe and successful exhibition, on a date that enables the show to deliver its purpose, we have concluded that we are not able to meet the brief. 

 

Instead, following the success of last year’s Virtual New Plant Awards, we will again provide our members with the opportunity to showcase new plants in this way in June 2021, and work towards planning our biggest and best National Plant Show for its return in 2022.

Blue Diamond Group announces exclusive partnership with The Soil Association

Blue Diamond and The Soil Association aims to break down any perceived barriers to gardening in an organic and more nature friendly way, to raise awareness of the benefits of using organic approved products and natural alternatives and to point customers on a journey towards changing to organic approved products and natural alternatives when gardening, all of which will hopefully encouraging customers to become more eco-aware...


The Soil Association is the charity that digs deeper to transform the way we live and care for our natural world. The mission of the Soil Association is help everyone understand and explore the vital relationship between the health of soil, plants, animals and people.

 

The Blue Diamond Group is the 2nd largest Garden Centre Group with 37 Garden Centres situated over the UK and Channel Islands. Blue Diamond is committed to reducing its impact on the environment and to promoting a greener, cleaner and more nature friendly way of gardening and so the exclusive partnership with The Soil Association is the perfect fit.

 

During 2021 Blue Diamond and The Soil Association aims to break down any perceived barriers to gardening in an organic and more nature friendly way, to raise awareness of the benefits of using organic approved products and natural alternatives and to point customers on a journey towards changing to organic approved products and natural alternatives when gardening, all of which will hopefully encouraging customers to become more eco-aware.

 

Alan Roper the Managing Director of the Blue Diamond Group says;
“I am pleased that by forming this partnership we are able to shine a spotlight on the commendable charitable work of the Soil Association whilst at the same time helping gardeners on a path to 100% environmentally friendly gardening so they can rely on healthy gardens the natural way.

 

This is a really important and exciting initiative which I hope our customers will get behind. We hope to encourage and give confidence to our customers to make the switch to gardening with products that are kinder to our environment.”

 

During the month of April, Blue Diamond and The Soil Association will focus on Lawn Care and will provide hints, tips and guidance to customers on which products are available to help care for their lawn in a natural and eco-friendly way. Blue Diamond’s “Make the Switch” campaign is all about educating and promoting products which will keep lawns in top condition without the need to resort to artificial products/chemicals.

 

Blue Diamond’s goal is to offer their customers an organic approved or nature friendly alternative for every chemical product they currently use to encourage them to make the switch to products that are kinder to our environment. Each month Blue Diamond will then focus on different natural/organic approved alternatives for different parts of the garden such as Roses, Vegetables and Composting for example.

 

From May onwards, the focus will turn to Organic Rose Care and how to ensure your roses stay pest and disease free using organic approved products, along with advice on companion planting and other natural methods to ensure your roses stay blooming lovely!

 

Blue Diamond takes its environmental responsibilities very seriously and over the years Blue Diamond has already taken many positive steps to reduce its impact on the environment and has implemented measures to reduce its carbon footprint.

 

Read more about our environmental steps – click here; https://www.bluediamond.gg/environment

 

Peat and ways to become peat free is at the forefront of many customer’s minds at the moment. Blue Diamond is committed to becoming peat free and is working in collaboration with The Soil Association at ways to achieve this. Blue Diamond’s own nursery at Bridgemere already grows crops in reduced peat and is undergoing production trials of peat free with a view to rolling out peat free crops this Autumn, roses being the first peat free plants.

 

Blue Diamond will continue to work with its suppliers and organisations such as The Soil Association to achieve a greener and more nature friendly way of gardening, this is better for the Earth, better for us and certainly better for bees!

 

To find out more about The Soil Association and how you can support this charity please click here: www.soilassociation.org

 
Flymo and Gardena partner with Evergreen

Global gardening brands Flymo and GARDENA, both under the Husqvarna Group, announce a new collaboration with Evergreen Garden Care. The three gardening power brands have joined forces for upcoming influencer campaigns, which are set to activate this Spring...


 

Global gardening brands Flymo and GARDENA, both under the Husqvarna Group, announce a new collaboration with Evergreen Garden Care.

 

The three gardening power brands have joined forces for upcoming influencer campaigns, which are set to activate this Spring, as well as a social competition offering customers the chance to win the ultimate garden care bundle of products.

 

For over 56 years, Flymo has developed new and innovative gardening products, becoming a market leader in lawn care and a trusted brand for making gardening quick and easy. Inventors of the convenient and easy to use hover lawnmower, Flymo has consistently remained a trusted UK best-selling household name celebrated for its intelligent lawncare innovations. This year saw Flymo launch its new 2021 range of products equipped with the most up to date technology to make gardening even simpler. New models include hover lawnmowers and powerful robotics for small, medium, or large garden spaces.

 

For over 50 years GARDENA has provided everything passionate gardeners need. Its assortment of products offers innovative solutions and systems for watering, lawn care, tree and shrub care as well as soil cultivation. Innovation leadership is at the core of GARDENA and its 2021 innovations continue to support the sustainable gardening platform through no chemical gardening and water-saving irrigation.

 

Evergreen Garden Care is the leading garden care company outside North America, producing high quality garden care products designed to help people create their own green oasis amid the rush of modern life. From lawncare to grow your own, Evergreen offers garden care products to help easily create and maintain the garden and other green spaces both indoor and outdoor.

 

Country Manager Flymo/Gardena/McCulloch UK at Husqvarna Group, Howard Scott said: “This new partnership between Flymo, GARDENA and Evergreen offers customers the ultimate garden care solutions. Evergreen’s range of garden care products perfectly complements Flymo and GARDENA’S to bring customers everything they need for their lawn and garden. At the heart of all three brands is a real passion for helping people enjoy their green spaces and to make it easy to do so, that’s why this new partnership is the ultimate garden care trio.”

 

Ian Hepburn, Marketing Director, UK & Ireland at Evergreen Garden Care commented: “With the huge uptake in gardening as a hobby over the past year, we’ve seen a lot of new gardeners enter the category and this includes a younger age demographic, who often look to social media for inspiration and guidance. The partnership with Flymo and GARDENA will be able to provide fully-rounded garden care advice and guidance and social media is the perfect platform for this.”

 
Ball Colegrave introduces 2021 Autumn Portfolio

Ball Colegrave has introduced its all new digital 2021 Autumn Portfolio. This year’s edition sees more new introductions than ever before, including many super novelties to provide additional retail sales opportunities...

 


Ball Colegrave has introduced its all new digital 2021 Autumn Portfolio.

 

Of course, the summer bedding season is about to start and although we are all getting very excited about making our gardens beautiful over the coming weeks and months, its actually an important time for Trade Nurseries and Garden Centre’s to start planning already their plant promotions for Autumn 2021 retail sales. Believe it or not Ball Colegrave have already sown all the Cyclamen plugs for the growers to produce plants this autumn!

 

"So I would like to share with you what will hopefully be available in the Garden Centres, Mail Order and other Retail Stores as we move into the autumn months to keep those patio containers, baskets and borders filled with amazing colour right through to Spring 2022," said Stuart Lowen, Marketing Manager.

 

"This year’s edition sees more new introductions than ever before, including many super novelties to provide additional retail sales opportunities.

 

"We hope you like the front cover featuring the stunning new Viola Sorbet® Tiger Eye. The Sorbet® series has been an industry standard for many years with its extensive colour range, ease of production and proven garden performance."

 

Other highlights include the stunning Dianthus I © You for beautiful autumn flowering pots from June potting and the incredible hardy Prima Belarina™ Day-Glo Yellow with its huge fully double flowers which adorning the neat shaped plants in early spring from an autumn potting. To help create exciting colour themed planting combinations, we have extended our selection of foliage plants in the ‘Autumn Splendour’ range to include Calocephalus Challenge, Cupressus Wilma, Carex EverColor®, Helichrysum Silvio and Muelenbeckia Green.

 

Trailing Pansy Cool Wave® continues to grow in popularity. Plants trail and spread effortlessly up to 60cm to fill baskets, containers and garden borders fast, with exceptional weather performance and superior overwintering qualities. The unique branching habit of Cool Wave® means fewer plants are required to fill space in flower beds, baskets and containers than standard Pansy varieties. This is great news for growers who can plant just 3 plugs in a hanging pot at the end of July for flowering basket sales throughout the autumn.

 

We are also delighted this year to introduce the Cool Wave® Speedplanter, for deliveries to growers in weeks 36-42. This is a great solution to turn around baskets and containers in super quick time with minimal effort. (See pages 28 & 29 for more details.)

 

Some of the New Variety highlights include… 

 

 Images (left to right, top to bottom): Dianthus I © U, Myosotis Mon Amie MixMasters®, Polyanthus Veris Orange Yellow, Pure Yellow and Lime Orange, Primrose (Double) Queen , Primula officinalis Lemon, Primrose Bellerose, Primrose Elle, Primula Belarina™ Day-Glo Yellow, Anemone Harmony Double, Wallflower Sunset Tutti Fruiti and Citrus Mixed, Carex EverColor®Everbrite and Ranunculus Vortex.

 

Primrose & Polyanthus Trial Video Highlights

This Spring unfortunately we were unable to open our Primrose and Polyanthus Trials for customers to visit.  So as not to miss out, we created a series of short (2 minute) videos with highlights from the trial, to help demonstrate some of the great variety choices available including some stunning new colours.  Check out the videos here:

 

Video 1: The Easy Way To Schedule

Video 2: What's New For 2021

Video 3: Novelties

Video 4: Polyanthus Highlights

Bradstone launches first low carbon paving range

Domestic hard landscaping brand Bradstone, part of the Aggregate Industries group, has this month launched a complete range of low carbon products for patios and driveways that offers a 20% reduction in carbon footprint compared to the previous versions of the products...


 

Domestic hard landscaping brand Bradstone, part of the Aggregate Industries group, has this month launched a complete range of low carbon products for patios and driveways that offers a 20% reduction in carbon footprint compared to the previous versions of the products.

 

Whilst the new Bradstone ECO collection offers a comprehensive selection of products, the company announces its commitment to review the entire concrete products range with a view to lowering its carbon footprint.

 

The paving brand, which celebrates its 65th anniversary this year, has made the move as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainable construction. The first products to be awarded Bradstone ECO status are now available and feature an improved design mix using sustainable materials and practices.

 

This has been achieved through improvements in manufacturing and design mix to help reduce the carbon footprint of each of the Bradstone ECO products. The change in design mix means a typical patio measuring 30m2 will now produce up to 66kg less carbon during manufacture compared with the old mix design, the equivalent of the CO2 reduction generated by 3 mature trees over one year*.

 

 

The first products available in the Bradstone ECO range include Old Town ECO, Old Riven ECO, Aged Riven ECO, Ashbourne ECO, Edale ECO and BradDrive Cobblestone ECO, from the brand’s concrete paving and driveway collection. All pack sizes and colours will remain the same.

 

In addition to improving the eco credentials of its existing wet cast products, Bradstone has launched a new Old Town ECO Evolve product that is more than 35% lower in carbon compared to the previous Old Town product. The paver is lighter and easier to handle. With its specific laying pattern it is now faster to lay as well. The reduced weight means more product can be included in each pack and larger quantities can be transported at the same time, helping to further reduce CO2 emissions.

 

The first product to launch is Old Town ECO Evolve paving in Silver Grey, a traditional style product that uses a secondary aggregate in the mix to give it a contemporary colour and unique sparkle. Available in a 7.2m2 pack, the concrete patio pack includes 900 x 600 pavers.

 

Simon Marriott, Managing Director of Aggregate Industries’ Concrete Products Division, says: “Taking the decision to improve the eco credentials of our wet cast paving products is a real milestone for Bradstone – and something we’re incredibly proud of. We’re especially excited that in the brand’s 65th year, we are launching Bradstone ECO, our first ever complete low carbon range, that’s manufactured right here in the UK.

 

“As one the UK’s largest building materials suppliers, it is our aim to be a leading sustainable business that is contributing to building a greener, smarter world for all. We seek to accelerate our carbon reduction not only by introducing environmentally friendlier products but by identifying opportunities in all our manufacturing processes, be it by reducing the plastic in our packaging or by using recycled boxes for our samples. Bradstone ECO is just one of many initiatives that is helping us achieve our ambitions to be at the forefront of sustainable construction.”

 

To find out more about the Bradstone and the new ECO range, visit www.bradstone.com

 

*According to European Environment Agency

Scatter seeds for a brighter year ahead, says Seedball

Wildflower specialist, Seedball, has developed a unique way in which to protect scattered seeds until they are ready to look after themselves, creating a mini-ecosystem and giving them nutrition as they germinate and grow...


 

Spring is traditionally seen as a time for renewal, growth, and new life, with warmer days urging us outdoors to enjoy nature. This year we have even more to look forward to, with reunions on the horizon and things returning to a semblance of normality. 

 

With these brighter days and positive thoughts of the year ahead, now is a great time to get outside and scatter some wildflower seeds to ensure that 2021 and beyond is full of life and colour. 

 

Wildflower specialist, Seedball, has developed a unique way in which to protect scattered seeds until they are ready to look after themselves, creating a mini-ecosystem and giving them nutrition as they germinate and grow.

 

The balls are made from a combination of British wildflower seeds, clay to protect from predators such as birds and ants, peat-free compost to provide nutrition, and a little bit of chilli powder to deter slugs and snails. Simply throw the balls onto soil or compost in a garden bed or planter in Spring or Autumn and wait. The seed ball has everything it needs to grow and, once the ball becomes moist and the temperature is right, the seeds will germinate! What could be easier? 

 

While Seedball is famed for its compact tins of seeds that are ideal for gifting, the company also produces larger grab bags, each containing 100 seed balls, make it easy for everyone to create a wildflower patch in their own garden, and what could be a greater symbol of positivity and optimism than that? The range includes bags of curated seed collections, such as the Bee Mix and the Shade Mix, to help people create wildflower havens with ease.

New for 2021 is a collection of Single Flower Grab Bags, each of which contain 50 seed balls of a single variety, allowing even more flexibility for people to design their own outdoor spaces according to individual preferences. The 24 varieties include quintessentially British species such as cowslips, cornflowers, yarrow and camomile.  

 

People will even be able to create their own delicate, blue carpet of bluebells with the Bluebell Grab Bag – provided they are willing to wait for them to flower, which can take up to five years after germination. These native flowers are more than worth the wait, though, and are one of Britain’s most precious and iconic plants. The variety available in the grab bags is the Hyacinthoides non-scripta, with a distinctive scent that is highly attractive to bees.  

 

To find out more about Seedball visit https://seedball.co.uk/ 

 

Garden centre invests in leadership skills training

Tong Garden Centre in Bradford has invested to equip its team with leadership and management skills in preparation of an ambitious growth phase...


 

Tong Garden Centre in Bradford has invested to equip its team with leadership and management skills in preparation of an ambitious growth phase.

 

The People and Culture team at Tong Garden Centre have partnered with Alex Firmin from York business, Promethean Executive to create a bespoke training programme for its future leaders and managers, focused on helping their leaders be ‘Great By Nature'.

 

Head of People and Culture, Neil Barwise-Carr has worked with Firmin in the past: "Alex has an excellent reputation for creating and delivering practical modules which help individuals focus on their own leadership strengths, whilst developing self-awareness as a leader.

 

"They (Promethean) use the principles of psychology to explain behaviours and allow leaders to develop greater empathy and emotional intelligence that benefits the whole team. This is exactly what we need as we prepare to open our second and subsequent sites."

 

Tong Garden Centre's Head of Marketing, Jo Dales was one of the first to experience the training: "This programme has already given us a great insight into our personal leadership styles and how we can work better together.

 

"Leading our teams in a dynamic business that is growing ambitiously is an exciting challenge and is very much a part of the cultural shift in the way we have operated over recent years. I'm proud to work for a business that invests passionately in its team."

 

"Tong is an extremely exciting business, and the team at Promethean is delighted to work with such a fast growing Yorkshire company.   We look forward to helping managers build their leadership skills so they can create and lead high performing teams to take the business forward to multiple sites," said Firmin.

Inside Outside... A New Beginning for the garden market - Read GTN's March Issue on-line now

Inside Outside... a New Beginning. How the 5th room is changing the garden centre retailing market in the March 2021 issue of GTN.  Read on-line here.

  • Next Generation to lead the way at GCA, interview with Tammy Woodhouse and Will Blake.
  • Inside Outside… A New Beginning for the garden market.
  • Empowering Change for a brighter future, LOFA team up with Planet Mark.
  • HTA Column, Tales of the unexpected.
  • GIMA Column, Somewhere over the rainbow, a ‘New Normal’ exists.

 


Inside Outside... a New Beginning. How the 5th room is changing the garden centre retailing market in the march 2021 issue of GTN.  Read on-line here.

  • Fountasia, Order now for Spring and Christmas.
  • Next Generation to lead the way at GCA, interview with Tammy Woodhouse and Will Blake.
  • Onduline ‘clay look’ tiles transform a garden centre.
  • Inside Outside… A New Beginning for the garden market.
  • Watering wisdom and more marketing from Hozelock.
  • Empowering Change for a brighter future, LOFA team up with Planet Mark.
  • HTA Column, Tales of the unexpected.
  • GIMA Column, Somewhere over the rainbow, a ‘New Normal’ exists.

 

 
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GIMA Charity Golf Day returns this summer
June 9th at Belton Woods Hotel & Golf Course

As lockdown restrictions ease and golf clubs reopen, there was no better time to confirm that the annual GIMA Golf Charity Day will be making its return on Wednesday June 9th at the Belton Woods Hotel & Golf Course in Grantham...


As lockdown restrictions ease and golf clubs reopen, there was no better time to confirm that the annual GIMA Golf Charity Day will be making its return on Wednesday June 9th at the Belton Woods Hotel & Golf Course in Grantham.

 

This special charity fundraising and team building event will see teams reunited on the course with prizes up for grabs for the usual spot games and ‘Beat the Pro’, as well as a super special prize for any golfer who completes the golfing holy grail: a hole-in-one. Golfers can enter individually or as a team of four, together testing their mettle on the 6,623-yard course that carries a par 73 handicap.

 

Whilst adhering to current government COVID guidelines, participants can also enjoy a barbeque post-golf (seated and table service only), whilst an informal prize giving will also take place where the winners of the day are celebrated. A raffle for the 2021 beneficiary charity - Greenfingers - will round off the day’s events. Golfers are also welcome to stay at the hotel thanks to a special discounted rate *.

 

As always, the GIMA Charity Golf Day will also offer a number of key sponsorship opportunities for brands wanting to support the event. Sponsorship packages include ‘nearest the pin’, ‘longest drive’, ‘straightest drive’ and ‘hole-in-one’. Brands can also sponsor a hole, drinks stations, booby prizes and golf balls for additional brand awareness opportunities.

 

GIMA Director, Vicky Nuttall said: “We are so looking forward to welcoming golfers back to our annual GIMA Golf Charity Day. The Golf Day has always been a hugely popular event and we know it has been missed. We hope many will be able to join us, to not only raise vital funds for the highly deserving Greenfingers charity, but also to enjoy what we hope is the first event in our journey towards a new normal. We’ll see you on the fairway!”

 

Find out more

To join the GIMA Charity Gold Day please visit www.gima.org.uk/events/gima-charity-golf-day-3. Prices to play and enjoy the post-round barbeque from just £65 +VAT.

 

* discounted rate only valid until May 12th 2021

 
Garden centre chef fakes invoices totalling more than £14,000, court hears

A court has been told that a chef working at Seasons Garden Centre in Burton Latimer, Northants, swindled his employers out of more than £14,000 after faking dozens of invoices...


A chef who worked at Seasons Garden Centre in Burton Latimer, Northants, swindled his employers out of more than £14,000 after faking dozens of invoices, a court heard.

 

Thirty-four-year Christopher Brown was trusted to pay for supplies for the cafe at Seasons in Cranford Road, where he was the chef manager.

 

But over the course of just under a year he created invoices for desserts which were never ordered - and paid himself the cash.

 

On Tuesday (March 30) Brown was handed a 10 month prison sentence suspended for 12 months.

 

Northampton Crown Court heard the experienced chef started working at the garden centre in December 2018. Part of his role was to order and pay for food to be used in the cafe.

 

The court was told that in total he defrauded the garden centre out of £14,256.21.

 

An office manager at the garden centre's parent company spotted the crime and confronted him, with Brown immediately confessing.

 
Garden reunions set the pace for product sales

As the nation started to use their gardens for family reunions, garden product sales in garden centres grew to more normal summer bank holiday levels. The totals of the GTN Bestellers Top 50 Garden Products for March were 98% up on last year and even higher than the previous record set in 2014...


 

As the nation started to use their gardens for family reunions, garden product sales in garden centres grew to more normal summer bank holiday levels. The totals of the GTN Bestellers Top 50 Garden Products for March were 98% up on last year and even higher than the previous record set in 2014.

 

Highlights of the week were:

  • Smart Solar GloBugs Pendants are the highest chart New Entry, in at No 14.
  • Westland Fish Blood & Bone 1.5kg is the highest re-entry at No 19.
  • Woodlodge Small Pot Feet stay at No 1 with a 50% increase in sales.

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
Mad March sales for growing media

March growing media sales hit a new record high, up 43% on the previous March high set in 2017...


 

March growing media sales hit a new record high, up 43% on the previous March high set in 2017.

 

Highlights of the week were:

  • Westland Multipurpose Compost with John Innes 50 litres continues as the No 1 Growing Media line in the GTN chart.
  • Evergreen Garden Care Levington Organic Blend Farm Manure 50 litres climbs furthest up the chart.  Up 15 places to No 18.
  • Growth Technology Houseplant Focus Repotting Mix Peat Free 2 litres is a re-entry at No 36.

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
Wild Bird Care up by 11%

Wild Bird Care sales grew by 11% in March 2021, but still lag behind previous high levels set in 2017...


 

Wild Bird Care sales grew by 11% in March 2021, but still lag behind previous high levels set in 2017. Last week, despite all other areas monitored by GTN Bestsellers growing week on week, Wild Bird Care sales tailed off slightly.

 

Highlights of the week were:

  • RHS Suet Balls 60 Tub stay at No 1 for another week in the GTN Top 50 Chart.
  • Gardman Mealworm Pouch 200g is the highest re-entry at No 9.
  • Henry Bell Mealworms 500g moved up 32 places to No 18.

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
PlantSavers deliver more than just plants

PlantSavers champion British grown plants, convenient service and delivery, community support and environmental sustainability. But from their humble roots, planted at the start of ‘Lockdown One’, they have grown bigger and better, and are once again ready to help revitalise UK households and their gardens this spring. 


 

PlantSavers champion British grown plants, convenient service and delivery, community support and environmental sustainability.

 

But from their humble roots, planted at the start of ‘Lockdown One’, they have grown bigger and better, and are once again ready to help revitalise UK households and their gardens this spring. 

 

Recently relaunching their new website PlantSavers.co.uk, they’ve expanded their range to now include outdoor plants, house plants, ‘grow your own’ edible plants, composts, pots & accessories. 

 

You can choose your favourite plants or pick from their curated plant packs (saving you the hassle of selecting each plant). Plus, there are recommendations based on conditions, colours and budgets, so it couldn’t be easier to Get Sorted This Spring! 

 

Their energetic team are determined to make the joys of gardening more accessible for all. Beginner or expert, small budget or lavish taste, indoors or outdoors, large space or small; everyone is welcome to grow themselves and join the PlantSavers family. 

 

With a focus on beautiful plants and quality service, coupled with wide-reaching social responsibility measures, it’s no coincidence PlantSavers experienced hyper-growth during the previous spring season, delivering to almost 20,000 households across London and raising over £18,000 for ‘Meals for the NHS’ and FareShare. 

 

They now offer delivery across the country and aim to make an even bigger impact with their efforts in the community (like employing out-of-work musicians and continuing to donate to groups like ‘NHS Charities Together’). 

 

The PlantSavers team are equally focused on minimising their environmental impact and making the horticultural industry more sustainable.

 

They specifically partner with some of the best plant growers across the UK, most of which have had their usual flow of business impacted by the pandemic. By aligning themselves with these nurseries, they’ve managed to support the local economy and help minimise waste of perfectly heathy plants (last year selling over 300,000 specimens, saving them in the process). 

 

Speaking with the founders, Matt Bouloux and Caleb Silcock, they passionately reflected: “We started PlantSavers to help our local community, British businesses and the environment during a time of need. It’s grown from strength to strength, and we’re so proud that with our wider variety and delivery coverage, we can invite everyone to experience the joys of gardening and be a part of the PlantSavers community.” 

 
D-Grade Fibre trays extended

In addition to its recycled plastic range, Desch Plantpak has even more eco-friendly alternatives, such as D-GradeFibre. D-Grade Fibre products are made from recycled cardboard waste and recycled paper, so they are perfect for composting and recycling...


 

In addition to its recycled plastic range, Desch Plantpak has even more eco-friendly alternatives, such as D-GradeFibre. D-Grade Fibre products are made from recycled cardboard waste and recycled paper, so they are perfect for composting and recycling.

 

The Fibre trays are moisture resistant, and 100% biodegradable.

 

Desch is launching two new trays – the 37606 and 37636. They are smooth on both sides, so easy to stack. The 37606 is suitable for 11/12-cm pots, and the 37636 is suitable for 13/14-cm pots. 

 

Besides being moisture-resistant and eco-friendly, D-Grade Fibre trays are also robust, and work well with, for example, Recover or D-Tect plus flower pots.

 

Compatible with self-adhesive labelling.

 
Haddonstone recognised in leading industry awards

Northamptonshire cast stone manufacturer Haddonstone has been recognised in a leading industry 'excellence' awards...


 

Northamptonshire cast stone manufacturer Haddonstone has been recognised in a leading industry 'excellence' awards. 
 
Two of Haddonstone’s projects were voted to receive prestigious awards by the United Kingdom Cast Stone Association (UKCSA) 'Excellence in the Use of Cast Stone' 30th Anniversary Awards.
 
The inclusion of the two winning Haddonstone projects demonstrates the company’s capabilities in producing superior cast stone components for projects, both large and small.

  • Best Cast Stone on a Small Project – Haddonstone – Monsieur George Hotel & Spa, Paris (2020)
  • Supreme Overall Cast Stone Project  – Haddonstone – The Royal Pavilion, Poundbury (2016)

Monsieur George Hotel & Spa, Paris (2020)

  • A bespoke stonework project commissioned by world-leading interior designer Anouska Hempel. 

The Royal Pavilion, Poundbury, Dorchester (2016)

  • The Duchy of Cornwall’s Poundbury development is the urban expansion of Dorchester.  Covering 400 acres of land, it’s the vision of H.R.H The Prince of Wales and has received worldwide acclaim. 

Nicola Clements, marketing manager at Haddonstone, said: “We are thrilled to be recognised in these prestigious awards, which showcase only the very best examples of cast stone manufacturing.  The inclusion of these projects demonstrates our expert team’s capabilities in supplying superior architectural stonework for projects in the UK and internationally, both large and small."

 
The GIMA Awards are back!
Make a note of November 11th in your diaries now!

Following an imposed year off in 2020, the leading trade association, GIMA, is pleased to confirm that its annual awards evening will be making its highly-anticipated return on November 11th, 2021...


 

Following an imposed year off in 2020, the leading trade association, GIMA, is pleased to confirm that its annual awards evening will be making its highly-anticipated return on November 11th, 2021.

 

Taking place at the ever-popular Celtic Manor Resort, this year’s event will be a night to remember, celebrating not just a return to normality but also the best that the garden retail sector has to offer.

 

Whilst the Covid pandemic resulted in the event being cancelled for the first time in its 40-year history in 2020, the industry has not stopped. Suppliers have stayed busy creating exciting new product, marketing and merchandising innovations throughout the 2020 and 2021 season. These launches and initiatives are what will be celebrated in a special glittering night of awards and merriment, with all of the usual categories – including the GCA Supplier of the Year (GCA), Gardenex Export Achievement and the Sword of Excellence (last won by Primeur in 2019) - set to make a return. A new Sustainability award will also be joining the line up to recognise a product, business initiative, or wider business ethos that demonstrates how suppliers are successfully driving the sustainability agenda.

 

Commenting on the welcome return of the GIMA Awards, GIMA Director, Vicky Nuttall said: “We could not be happier to confirm that the annual awards ceremony will be back later this year. I know how missed the event has been, so being able to confirm its return is a very special moment for us. 

 

“This year’s awards may be a little later in the year than we are used to but that won’t stop us celebrating in style! We are very much looking forward to throwing open the doors to Celtic Manor once again and being able to celebrate the incredible hard work that our suppliers have achieved in the face of adversity over the past two years.”

 

To mark the ruby anniversary of the event, GIMA is asking attendees to add a splash of red to their glad rags to help mark the celebrations even further. 

 

This year, the GIMA Awards will be sponsored by a wealth of fantastic industry brands, including Glee which returns, once again, as headline sponsor, as well as the HTA, GCA, Gardenex, Garden Trade News, Gardenforum, Garden Radio, Garden Centre Retail, Garden Centre Update, DIY Week, CM Ventures and Hornby Whitefoot PR.  Additional sponsorship opportunities are also available - please contact GIMA to find out more. 

 

Entry is now open!

Entry to the 2021 GIMA awards is now open. This year, the entry criteria has been extended to cover both the 2020 and 2021 season, giving suppliers the chance to showcase efforts that may have been missed during the pandemic. The closing date for entries will be 28th May, with the judging process taking place at the end of June at Warwick Racecourse. This year’s judges will include representatives from Bents Garden & Home, British Garden Centres, The Gardens Group, Altons Garden Centre, Dobbies and Wickes.

 

To find out more about how to enter the 2021 GIMA Awards or to book your place at what is set to be a night to remember please visit www.gima.org.uk

 
George brings the first-ever RHS kids’ clothing line to Asda stores

In association with the RHS, the award-winning George brand has produced a fabulous collection of children’s clothing and accessories...


In association with the RHS, the award-winning George brand has produced a fabulous collection of children’s clothing and accessories.

 

The license has been awarded to George for a special new range aimed at 1-7-year-olds. 

 

The range includes shirts, t-shirts, hoodies, dresses, shorts, boots, backpacks and rainhats. It’s a carefully selected mix of apparel for wearing in the garden, at picnics, during outings to the park and more.

 

To further underline the joys of gardening, swing tags have been designed in the shape of flower pots. All the products are fun, attractive, practical and reasonably priced. The RHS branding, highlighting the RHS tree and shield, is clearly visible on the sew-in tags and packaging.

 

The range launched on the 1st of April in Asda stores. The launch is being supported by a marketing campaign that will include consumer press releases, product placement and influencer support.

 

Launched in 1990, George is now sold in over 580 stores and through George.com with over two million customer transactions per week combined. George is a household name and has built up a reputation for quality, style and value, leading the changing face of British fashion over the past decades and making Asda one of the largest fashion retailers in Britain.

 

Estella Arroyo, Product Design Profession Lead at George, says: “This collaboration between George and the RHS is aimed at producing a collection of products that are beautiful to look at, great to wear and support a worthwhile message in a fun way. We are very proud to be collaborating with the RHS on this wonderful range which has been worked through by two companies who have the same values in mind. We‘re delighted with the final product which displays both quality and style and encourages children to get outside and grow!”

 

Cathy Snow, Licensing Manager, RHS, says: “This is our very first collaboration on children’s clothing and the results, in terms of products, packaging and design, have exceeded our expectations. And, of course, the whole range brilliantly supports our key message – to encourage everyone, no matter their age or ability, to ’get growing’. This line has been a joy to work on and I think it will delight its young target market as much as it has delighted us.”

 
Royal Horticultural Society calls on public to help map sweet chestnut trees

The Royal Horticultural Society and Coventry University are calling on the public to spot sweet chestnuts on their daily stroll as they launch a new citizen science project to help protect the at-risk tree for the future...


The Royal Horticultural Society and Coventry University are calling on the public to spot sweet chestnuts on their daily stroll as they launch a new citizen science project to help protect the at-risk tree for the future.

 

Found in woods and parks throughout the UK, the iconic sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) with its attractive, deeply-grooved bark, distinctively jagged-edged leaves and clusters of edible nuts is an important source of food for wildlife – including bees, pollinators and squirrels - and can live for up to 700 years when healthy. Thought to have been introduced by the Romans, the trees are now under threat from newly arrived oriental chestnut gall wasp (Dryocosmus kuriphilus) which disfigure and weaken the tree, with the RHS Science team eager to map the non-native insect and trees in varying states of health.

 

Most sweet chestnut trees can be found in the south of England, particularly in Kent and Surrey, but have been found to reach farther north than the Cairngorms. Beyond this very little is known about their distribution in the UK, making it difficult to fully understand the threat to UK gardens and green spaces and provide effective protection.

 

First discovered in the UK in 2015, the oriental chestnut gall wasp spreads through flight and likely entered the UK through plant imports. The wasp larvae cause abnormal growths, known as galls, on the buds and leaves of the sweet chestnut tree. In high numbers these galls can weaken the host tree, making it more vulnerable to other pests and diseases, particularly sweet chestnut blight.

 

To take part in the Check-a-Sweet Chestnut Survey, members of the public can register on the RHS website and log their findings online via the TreeZilla and TreeAlert reporting tools. Training materials will be provided to help identify and measure sweet chestnut trees and to recognise signs of poor health such as galls on leaves and twigs, damaged or discoloured bark or dieback in the canopy. People are also encouraged to seek out sweet chestnut trees which have already been mapped and to check up on their health.

 

RHS Plant Pathologist Jassy Drakulic says: “Organisms that arrive from abroad and attack trees are on the rise, with an average of six new species arriving in Europe each year. Citizens as a collective can gather huge amounts of data that would never be possible with official inspections and surveys.

 

“We hope that by finding and measuring sweet chestnut trees this will breathe new life into the trails many people will have often walked in lockdown, and that the project will inspire people to appreciate and learn more about the trees in their area.”

 

Data gathered during the project will help the Forestry Commission monitor pests and diseases. The project, funded by Project HOMED, is an opportunity to demonstrate the value of citizen science in containing such outbreaks and minimising damage to sweet chestnut populations in the UK.

 

RHS Science will move to a new state of the art facility, RHS Hilltop, at RHS Garden Wisley in June 2021 that will help facilitate its research programmes and educational work. For more information visit www.rhs.org.uk/hilltop.

 
The best of last week's

If you missed last week's GTN Xtra, below are the most-read stories...


 
Garden centres report busiest ever day as gardens are the focus for family re-unions this week - More comments added

Gardens are the main stage for family re-unions as England moves to the next stage of the Roadmap today, and garden centres have been reporting their busiest ever day on Saturday this weekend...


Gardens are the main stage for family re-unions as England moves to the next stage of the Roadmap today, and garden centres have been reporting their busiest ever day on Saturday this weekend.

 

Despite continued tight management of customer numbers and social distancing GTN received various reports for garden centres across England of Saturday 27th March being their busiest ever with furniture sales featuring large in those sales figures.

 

British Garden Centres had its best day ever for the group, overtaking the record days of May 2020.

 

Alan Roper, Blue Diamond, commented that it was an "industry wide phenomenon," with centres reporting record levels of furniture sales.

 

Derek Bunker at Altons in Essex told GTN Xtra: "We had our busiest day ever on saturday.  Everything went crazy. Garden furniture, bbqs, outdoor plants,house plants landscape materials. It was absolutely amazing and the weather here was not particularly good with cloudy skies and a cold wind.  The trick now is to restock when most suppliers have little stock."

 

At Baytree Garden Centre in Spalding, Nigel Wallis described Saturday as "Blooming marvellously crackers!"

 

Gerald Ingram said: "Planters and Bretby both had their busiest ever days.  Planters up by about £7,000 and Bretby up by at least £15,000!  Its been unbelievable and that’s before the restaurants re-open!  Furniture accounted for 20% of all sales last week."

 

Some garden centres had been so busy they were unable to comment on actual sales levels yesterday; "Haven't got a bloody clue! Reported Sam at Bosworths near Kettering. "I'm too busy trying to find more stock and working out what has hit me." 

 

And in the South West, Charlie Groves told us: "I think it was a record day, especially if you take catering out of the figures.  It was certainly the busiest ever March day.  The customers all seemed to be very excited to see the sun come out and a chance to get back in the garden.  It was great to see plants and core gardening going so well. The only down side was the amount of furniture enquires we had and the lack of furniture we have been able to get hold of but I guess you can’t have it all."

 

John Ainscow at Summerseat Garden Centre, that featured on BBC Breakfast on Friday, (pictured above) said: "It was our third busiest day ever at Bradley Fold only beaten by a day last May and one last November.  Apparently Monty Don was sowing tomato seeds last Friday, quite correctly, end of March.  We’ve been selling tomato plants, not seed, which we grow ourselves, for over four weeks. To back-up our hard hit supply we contacted Quantil and Colourgrow and both said no plants available due to incredible demand. Really is amazing, we’ve probably already sold approaching 2,000 plants between our two centres, marked up of course, “Protect from frost”.  Bit ominous for the summer bedding season."

 

After Summerseats starring role on BBC Breakfast on Friday there was a feature on BBQ's on ITV's Good Morning, numerous local radio slots about gardens and gardening and the over the weekend as well as the usual, now regular gardening programming there was a long feature about houseplants as part of Channel 4 News on Saturday evening.

 

No wonder the airwaves this morning are full of stories about how people have been preparing their gardens so they can have family re-unions this week.  And to cap it all we now have three days of glorious weather forecast.  Gardening is not just centre stage right now, it is the main stage!

 

New comments added post e-mailing the newsletter.

 

Justin Williams at Fron Goch, who were only able to re-open on March 22nd says: "Everyday last week was better than any previous best days.  Furniture and trees and shrubs playing a major part of course. The furniture demand is incredible - I imagine this year is a once in Lifetime situation for gardening demand. Customers comfortable within the centre and very happy to be back. Great to see happy customers once again in the centre."

 

At Klondyke, who still have garden centres that have been unable to re-open yet in Scotland, David Yardley comments: "We had a very busy week last week but as the Scottish centres are closed it wasn’t our busiest ever but was our best ever week in March. We had two centres have their best day ever and best week ever but it was a long way short of the last week in May last year. We did see a jump again in ATV which is encouraging but this was caused by the increase in furniture sales more than anything else."

 

In the North West, Newbank's Jon Bottomley has told GTN Xtra: It isn’t just this weekend, we beat our best ever day by 30% every weekend day for the past month. We are currently trading at 4 times usual turnover since January, the decision to ship furniture in October has really paid off and we have a pre-order sheet which is like war and peace. All other departments are flying but furniture is driving the sales through the stratosphere. We honestly don’t know how we’re going to cope if this continues but we will!"

 

At Perrywood, Simon Bourne reports: "It was exceptionally busy and was a record day on Saturday at Tiptree. We've been busy every single day of March and for the last 10 days we've been trading at approx double our normal expectation. 

Lets hope it can continue for a few more weeks!"

 

Martin Davies at Raglan Garden Centre in Wales has just added: "Yes, like everywhere else Saturday was the busiest day ever and it has been unbelievably busy since we re-opened last Monday. Saturday was the perfect storm, pent up demand, money to spend and the definite feeling of get it now before it’s gone. Takings almost 40% up on our best day last May. Mark Drakeford has a lot to answer for, instead of an orderly start to the season he has created a frenzy of demand with our delayed opening, which we may not be able to cope with if this level of trade continues."

 

While day records weren't broken at Bents Garden & Home, Matthew Bent tells us: "it was a great weekend. We found that plants, compost, pots and gardening were selling really well.  Outdoor living, including furniture and BBQs are really booming as everyone gets ready for being allowed in their gardens.  Lets hope the spring weather is as good as last year."

 

Mothers Day was still the best Saturday for Longacres at Bagshot due to their on-site floristry business.  Nigel Long said however that the smaller Longacres stores were very close to their best ever Saturday this weekend.  "Bagshot has always worked on a numbers game so on a major Saturday we would have 5,000 to 6,000 customers through the door.  Obviously at the moment we are having to restrict those numbers by more than half. As with everyone else the average basket sale has increased and we have increased our opening hours in the week and on a Saturday.  So the week just gone was just shy of our best week ever!"

 

Did you also have your busiest ever day on Saturday?  Please use the comments link below or e-mail trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk 

 

 

 
Suez Canal blockage causes further delays for garden furniture

Many LOFA members have products on the container ship that is blocking the Suez canal, Ever Given, or held up in one of the container ships behind the vessel, which means yet another setback for the outdoor leisure industry which is already dealing with issues caused by port congestion, lack of empty containers and rising shipping costs...


 

More than 180 ships remain blocked in the Suez Canal in both directions, unable to get through one of the busiest waterways in the world, LOFA have now learnt that the freeing of the ship may take longer than originally thought.

 

A huge backlog of vessels is building up amid warnings that the salvage team could need days or even weeks, to prise out the giant container ship that’s blocking the crucial waterway.

 

 

Work to re-float the Ever Given and allow passage for ocean going carriers hauling almost $10 billion of oil and consumer goods continued without success on Thursday. Tugs and diggers have so far failed to budge the vessel, and some experts say the crisis could drag on for several days. The Suez Canal Authority has temporarily suspended traffic along the waterway.

 

Many LOFA members have products on the Ever Given or held in one of the container ships behind the vessel, which means yet another setback for the outdoor leisure industry which is already dealing with issues caused by port congestion, lack of empty containers and rising shipping costs.

 

The incident began on Tuesday when the Ever Given, on its way to Rotterdam from China, faced strong winds which kicked up sands along the banks of the 120-mile canal. The waterway is less than 205 meters in some places, and can be difficult to navigate when there’s poor visibility. As gusts that reached as high as 46 miles an hour swept up dust around it, the crew lost control of the ship and it careered sideways into a sandy embankment, blocking nearly the entirety of the channel 

 

At about a quarter mile long (400 meters) and weighing in at 200,000 tons, the sheer size of the vessel is overwhelming efforts to dig it out. The vessel will most likely have to be lightened before it can be dug out either end. The salvors may have to lighten the ship by removing things like the ballast water, which helps keep it steady while at sea. Fuel could also be unloaded.

 

Container ships usually take 5-6 weeks to travel from China to UK ports, some shipping companies are now starting to divert their ships around the southern tip of Africa, the Cape of Good Hope, which adds about 3,500 miles to the journey and up to 12 days.

 

This could not have come at a worst time for LOFA Members and retailers with the Easter and May Day weekends fast approaching it will mean extra delays for products arriving in the UK. 

 

More detail about the Ever Given and the situation in the Suez Canal can be seen at: https://www.vesselfinder.com/news/20467-UPDATE-3-on-Suez-Canal-Blocked-by-Ever-Given-Photos-and-Videos

 

 
Cherry Lane acquires Langford Garden Centre

Value garden centre group, Cherry Lane, has acquired Langford Nurseries & Garden Centre in Bedfordshire, taking their group of garden centres to 15...


 

Value garden centre group, Cherry Lane, has today, Friday 26th March, acquired Langford Nurseries & Garden Centre in Bedfordshire,, taking their group of garden centres to 15.

 

Langford Nurseries & Garden Centre is located on Henlow Road, Langford. The acquisition, the latest in Cherry Lane’s strategy of ongoing expansion, brings the group total to 15 garden centres across East Anglia, Yorkshire and the Midlands.

 

Nick Rubins, Chief Executive of the QD Group which owns Cherry Lane, said: “The latest acquisition of Langford Garden Centre is another step in the ongoing growth and success of Cherry Lane. The centre is in a great location which is situated in the heart of our region and we are very pleased to welcome the team from Langford Garden Centre, many of whom have worked there for 30+ years and have outstanding gardening knowledge and expertise. As a family run business, we look forward to continuing the centre’s rich history of serving the local community and to introducing our great value, excellent quality and ever-changing spectacular new deals.”

 

The garden centre, which currently employs 28 members of staff, will be known as Langford Garden Centre by Cherry Lane. All staff will be retained and Cherry Lane hopes to expand the team by recruiting a number of additional staff in the near future. The garden centre manager is Wayne Roberts, who is the current manager and will remain in this role.

 

Cherry Lane will be working to introduce a number of key improvements and developments to the garden centre and café over the next few months. It aims to enhance customer enjoyment and experience of the great value and quality of products with new departments being added, including outdoor living and furniture such as solar lighting, water features and barbecues, not to mention indoor furnishings and homewares, plus a brand new pet department under Cherry Lane’s Scallywags brand. Cherry Lane is continuing the garden centre’s well-established plant growing operation, which will work alongside the group’s existing three nursery operations located across the country. The garden centre will remain open to customers throughout the improvement works.

 

Langford Garden Centre by Cherry Lane is located on Henlow Road, Langford, Beds SG18 9SD. For more information, visit www.cherry-lane.co.uk.

 
little dobbies opens its doors in Bristol

Dobbies has opened a brand new format store in Bristol – little dobbies...


 

Dobbies has opened a brand new format store in Bristol – little dobbies.

 

Located on Whiteladies Road, Clifton, this is the second little dobbies to open in the UK, following the success of the debut store which launched in Edinburgh in November 2020. Bolstering the Dobbies portfolio, this takes the total to 70 Dobbies’ stores across the UK. 

 

little dobbies Clifton core offering is horticulturally focused with a carefully curated range of convenience gardening products, ideal for those in urban areas with a compact gardening space. This is complemented by a range featuring houseplants and pots; a small selection of gifts; and selected seasonal ranges. For opening, spring and summer products will feature including bulbs, seeds and gardening tools. Freshly-ground takeaway coffee is also available.

 

Graeme Jenkins, CEO at Dobbies, said: “This is an exciting new venture for our team, as we expand our little dobbies offering into Bristol. The store features gardening essentials for urban residents and showcases some of the extensive ranges available at our larger stores and online at dobbies.com.

 

“We hope that residents in Clifton enjoy shopping at little dobbies. I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed to the project.”

 

 

Opening hours for little dobbies are Monday to Saturday 09:00-18:00 and Sunday 10:00-18:00. Social distancing measures are in place across the store.

 

For further information visit dobbies.com

 
DJ Turfcare responds to Monty Don’s call to stop mowing our lawns

Gardening guru, Monty Don, recently issued a rallying call to gardeners to stop mowing their lawns, claiming the process ‘burns lots of fossil fuel’, ‘makes a filthy noise’ and is ‘about the most injurious thing you can do to wildlife’. This statement has sent ripples across the gardening industry with suppliers such as DJ Turfcare wanting to actively respond as they believe such comments have potentially damaging consequences...


 

Gardening guru, Monty Don, recently issued a rallying call to gardeners to stop mowing their lawns, claiming the process ‘burns lots of fossil fuel’, ‘makes a filthy noise’ and is ‘about the most injurious thing you can do to wildlife’. This statement has sent ripples across the gardening industry with suppliers such as DJ Turfcare wanting to actively respond as they believe such comments have potentially damaging consequences.

 

David Jenkins from DJ Turfcare said: “The protection of environment is of paramount importance but there are ways and means of doing this without having to neglect your lawn. Whilst I support Monty Don’s move towards environmental protection, I do believe we have to be more realistic in our expectations.

 

“In basic terms lawns are the centrepiece of our garden spaces and are the hub for much of our activities. If we stopped mowing the functionality of our gardens would change dramatically.  Aesthetically, lawns also set off the entire garden, providing a natural backdrop to flowerbeds and wider planting schemes, no matter how small they are. Plus, those without planting or gardening know-how enjoy the natural element that having a lawn can bring to their homes, and this would be minimised if lawns were allowed to run riot.

 

“The action of mowing the lawn is also one that many enjoy, both physically and mentally, whilst the scent of freshly mown grass often evokes happy memories and marks the start to the spring/summer season where evenings stretch longer and days are full of sunshine. Whilst not environmentally focused, these elements do have an important role to play when telling people to retire the lawnmower.

 

“From an environmental standpoint, we are seeing a more definitive move towards battery powered mowers, and as such we are becoming less reliant on fossil fuel powered mowers. Gardeners are also becoming much more environmentally conscious as seen in the significant rise in ‘naturals’ and products that are organic or veganic. The DJ Turfcare product portfolio which features all-organic based, RHS endorsed fertilisers have seen sales skyrocket over recent years as customers look to only utilise “good” products in their garden spaces. When it comes to lawns, our products contain soil-friendly microbes which work to enhance the soil, offering benefits for both the grass and the wildlife which calls it home.

 

“To summarise, stopping mowing just isn’t a realistic expectation for most. However, what we can do is make the switch to greener alternative such as battery powered lawn mowers, organic fertilisers and feeds, and chemical-free sprays and solutions. This way we are minimising our reliance on fossil fuels, whilst boosting our garden spaces with products that give back to the planet, support the ecosystem and help our gardens to flourish.”

 

To find out more about the DJ Turfcare portfolio please visit www.djturfcare.co.uk

 
Barton Grange Christmas 2020 - Exclusive GTN Xtra Photo Tour

In advance of the launch of GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020, GTN's Northern Correspondent, Steve Myatt, paid a visit to Barton Grange to bring you this first GTN Xtra Christmas photo tour.


In advance of the launch of GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020, GTN's Northern Correspondent, Steve Myatt, paid a visit to Barton Grange to bring you this first GTN Xtra Christmas photo tour.

 

To add your garden centre Christmas photo tour to GTN Xtra simply get snapping and enter The Greatest Christmas Awards.  See the categories here.  Send an e-mail to trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk for more details

 

 
Squires Badshot Lea - Christmas 2020
Sneak preview of Squires Badshot Lea Greatest Christmas Awards entry
See Squires Bashot Lea's Christmas Awards entry photo tour here

 

Here's a sneak preview of the photo tour submitted by Squires at Badshot Lea as part of their entry in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020.

 

There's over £7,000 worth of prizes to be won in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2020 so get snapping and enter your garden centre team today!

 

Full details are here.

 

 
Perrywood at Christmas 2020 - with correct photo gallery now...
Sneak preview of Perrywoods Greatest Christmas Awards entry
See Perrywoods Christmas Awards Entry Photo Tour here

 

Here's a sneak preview of Perrywoods photo tour entry in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards for 2020, including the vital ingredient for all entries, team photos. See the gallery of photos below.  Apologies for the wrong photos being included in yesterdays edition.

 

There's over £7,000 worth of prizes to be won in GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards so get snapping and enter today.  Full details can be found here.

 

 
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week

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


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 newsletter.

As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2018 as well as 2019 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 up-to-date gardening sales analysis that has already helped many UK garden centres increase their sales.  To subscribe call 07973 504214, e-mail karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

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

Highlights of the GTN Garden Plants Bestsellers chart for last week are here

 

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

 

Highlights of the GTN Wild Bird Care Bestsellers chart for last 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.

 

Get the GTN Bestsellers charts in full every week in the GTN Bestsellers newsletters for only £145.00.

GTN Bestsellers is the only industry source of weekly garden centre sales information, collating Epos data from centres with an aggregate turnover in excess of £100m.

Use the weekly Garden Products and Growing Media Top 50 sales volumes charts to plan your hotspot and other promotions and ensure you have the right products in stock to satisfy the needs of your customers.

For further information contact karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or call 07973504214.

Buy your subscription today and start receiving the GTN Bestsellers charts this week.

All the latest news from the world of pet products


 
Interpet launches new LED lighting range to make fish shine and aid plant growth

Leading pet and aquatics company Interpet has launched a new range of energy-efficient LED lighting providing maximum brightness to create a beautiful, healthy aquarium – making fish shine and plants flourish...


Leading pet and aquatics company Interpet has launched a new range of energy-efficient LED lighting providing maximum brightness to create a beautiful, healthy aquarium – making fish shine and plants flourish.

 

Interpet, part of the Central Garden & Pet company, has upgraded its aquarium lighting to create the Eco-Max LED range offering an economical and brighter lighting alternative to T5/T8 lamps.

 

Adrian Exell, Development and Marketing Manager at Interpet, explains: “The Eco-Max range has just been released, so is brand new to the marketplace and we’re very excited about it, and the benefits it offers for aquarium owners with tropical fish and plants.

 

“It’s a slim, stylishly designed, range of super bright, yet economical, LED lighting for use on aquariums with both inbuilt white and blue LEDs for day and night modes creating night-light and blue moon options.

 

“This submersible waterproof system has been devised by us to create a beautiful aquarium for your tropical fish and plants to flourish in. The system is ideal for encouraging and enhancing plant life. It also represents a cost-effective replacement for traditional T8 and T5 fluorescent lighting and metal halide and T5 power compact lighting, or as an upgrade to current LED lit aquariums of any brand. 

 

“This super bright, yet economical lighting system, is more than 50% brighter than other LED Systems, yet is energy efficient, using a very low wattage.”

 

The Eco-Max LEDs are a spotlight source, which bounces off any surface water movement to create a ripple effect in the aquarium, stimulating healthy plant growth without encouraging algae.

 

The range of six LED light units can be retro-fitted onto any aquarium model from 20cm up 130cm in size and uses multipurpose brackets. It can also be fitted to the aquarium hood or submerged using suckers.   

 

The Eco-Max lighting range is available in six sizes from 20cm up to 115cm:

  • Eco-Max Tropical LED 20cm – SSP £22.99
  • Eco-Max Tropical LED 36cm – SSP £29.99
  • Eco-Max Tropical LED 45cm – SSP £39.99
  • Eco-Max Tropical LED 60cm – SSP £59.99
  • Eco-Max Tropical LED 90cm - SSP £69.99
  • Eco-Max Tropical LED 115cm – SSP £79.99

For further trade information or to become stockist, please email SalesEmail@interpet.co.uk, visit Interpet’s trade website Intersell http://interpet.co.uk or contact your Interpet Area Sales Manager.

 

To find out more about the new Interpet Eco-Max LED lighting range, please visit www.interpet.co.uk/Products/Lighting/LEDs.

Major pet companies book stands at PATS Telford

Bookings for PATS Telford, which takes place on 26th-27th September 2021, are gathering pace as the UK pet industry looks forward to the chance of meeting up face-to-face at a ‘live’ show for the first time in 18 months...


 

Bookings for PATS Telford, which takes place on 26th-27th September 2021, are gathering pace as the UK pet industry looks forward to the chance of meeting up face-to-face at a ‘live’ show for the first time in 18 months.

 

The coronavirus pandemic put a halt on trade exhibitions around the world with PATS Sandown in February 2020 being the last ‘live’ pet industry event to take place in the UK.

 

More than 110 companies have booked their stand space for PATS Telford, including leading pet accessories supplier Ancol Pet Products, who will be exhibiting at a PATS exhibition for the first time.

 

Ancol is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and is excited by the prospect of having a stand at the UK’s number one pet industry exhibition.

 

“The company is ready to help its customers and the trade to bounce back from a difficult period,” said Ancol’s product manager Tom Gwilliam. “Ancol is looking forward to seeing friends, customers, and business partners at PATS Telford in September, and has some exciting surprises ready to celebrate its 50th birthday, which takes place that month.”

 

Other industry-leading exhibitors who have already committed to next September’s PATS Telford showpiece can’t wait for a return of the ‘live’ show.

 

Rob Newsome, director of sales and operations at Danish Design Pet Products, said: “Our customers tell us that they want to see, touch and feel our products to fully appreciate the quality and design. Live trade shows are so important and really enable us to tell the story behind our products and the Danish Design brand. We can’t wait.”

 

It's a similar story for Henry Bell and its brands Mr Johnson’s and Dog Gone Fishin’. Business manager Alan Gittins commented: “We are really excited to be exhibiting at PATS Telford as our industry thrives on the face-to-face interaction. We’re looking forward to sharing the new products we’ve launched as well as having the opportunity to meet new and existing retailers to discuss the way forward for our businesses.”

 

Since Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced in February how the UK would emerge from lockdown, including the resumption of indoor and outdoor events from the 17th May (with limits on capacity), preparations for PATS Telford have gathered pace.

 

Visitors to the show will be able to see an unrivalled array of products in the New Products Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews, watch demonstrations from the country’s leading dog groomers and listen to talks from prominent industry figures.

 

The prestigious PetQuip Awards, which recognise outstanding achievements within the pet industry, will also be taking place during PATS Telford on the evening of the first day.

 

For a full list of exhibitors and the latest information on the show visit www.patshow.co.uk

 
Vet charity urges pet owners to be vigilant over Easter

The PDSA has warned pet owners of the dangers of chocolate poisoning after a Chihuahua needed life-saving treatment. Vets at Gillingham PDSA Pet Hospital rushed two-year-old Bailey in as an emergency after he tucked into a chocolate Easter egg...


The PDSA has warned pet owners of the dangers of chocolate poisoning after a Chihuahua needed life-saving treatment.

 

Vets at Gillingham PDSA Pet Hospital rushed two-year-old Bailey in as an emergency after he tucked into a chocolate Easter egg. They gave him treatment to induce vomiting in a bid to stop any more of the toxins being absorbed.

 

PDSA vet teams treat hundreds of chocolate poisoning cases in their pet hospitals every year, and admit the problem worsens over Easter. In severe cases, chocolate poisoning in dogs can cause fits and even death. The higher the cocoa content of the chocolate, the more dangerous it is, so dark chocolate poses the biggest risk..

 

Senior vet Soo Ming Teoh said: “We estimated that Bailey had eaten about half an Easter egg, which is an extremely dangerous amount for a dog of his very small size, therefore we knew he was at risk of serious disturbances to his heart rhythm or even seizures.

 

“Thankfully he was brought in very quickly and we were able to give him life-saving treatment before too much of the toxin got into his system. He needed close monitoring and intravenous fluid support due to an increased heart rate, likely caused by the amount of chocolate he’d eaten. But after a few hours of observation and treatment he was able to go home with instructions to keep a close eye on him overnight.”

  

In severe cases, chocolate poisoning in dogs can cause fits and even death. The higher the cocoa content of the chocolate, the more dangerous it is, so dark chocolate poses the biggest risk to pets.

 

PDSA is also warning pet owners about other popular Easter foods that can be toxic to pets, including hot cross buns as well as the dangers of some spring plants at this time of year, such as daffodils and lilies.

 

PDSA vets advise owners to store chocolates and other potentially poisonous foods in the same way as medicines when they have pets in their household – safely and securely.