The long-term future of domestic weedkillers containing glyphosate is back on a knife-edge following last Wednesday’s decision by the EU Commission to defer a definitive vote on a proposed 10-year re-approval of the chemical, just weeks before the current licence runs out.

Glyphosate, the active ingredient in best-selling Roundup and a number of other systemic weedkillers that kill weeds back to the roots, is an important herbicide for gardeners and farmers, but it was deemed “probably carcinogenic” by the World Health Organisations’s cancer agency (IARC), leading to a review by the EU Commission. Monsanto, the manufacturers of glyphosate, have consistently challenged IARC’s findings and the European Food Standards Agency has concluded that glyphosate is unlikely to cause cancer in humans.

After two years of debate, the European Parliament last week called for glyphosate to be phased out by 2022. Twenty-four hours later, the EU Commission’s Standing Committee on Plants and Animals Food and Feed (SCoPAFF) – Europe’s policy makers and administrators – failed to reach a concensus on a proposal for a 10-year extension to glyphosate’s licence, which runs out on 15 December. An ‘indicative vote’ (like an informal show of hands) suggested that a shorter period of relicensing (closer to the five years called for by MEPs, perhaps) might get support – so the matter will now be considered yet again by the 28 member states before another vote by SCoPAFF some time in November. Meanwhile, the deadline looms…

The UK was one of 16 governments who said they would have voted in favour of the 10-year extension – but 10 were against it. Germany and Portugal abstained, with the result that member support for the plan reached only 47%, short of a qualified majority.

According to the UK’s Agriculture Industries Federation, the Commission will now consider lowering the approval period and sound out member states before putting a new proposal to the vote.

Last week's votes clearly bring the prospect a of a ban closer, but observers believe it is far from a fait accompli.

Darren Brown, head of the UK and Ireland division of SBM Life Science, who sell glyphosate products, told GTN Xtra: "We will roll with any changes because we have both natural and synthetic products, but we  support the industry view that what we need is science-based legislation representing a balanced view after considering all the evidence. We were glad to see the UK's support for the re-approval this week, in line with most other member states - which gives us cause for optimism."

Monsanto and Westland Horticulture had not responded to GTN's request for comment before this edition was finalised.

This article in New Scientist makes interesting reading: Ban on weedkiller glyphosate won’t save anyone from cancer

In a move to invest further in its supply chain and gain greater control of logistics, leading non-food wholesaler Stax Trade Centres plc has acquired PDS Logistics Ltd for an undisclosed sum..

PDS were established in 1985 and will offer Stax an additional fleet of vehicles plus a further 65,000 square footage of warehousing and fulfillment/distribution space. The company was founded by John McClelland who now plans to exit the business full time but will continue to provide ad hoc consultancy. The deal will also secure the jobs of the existing staff who will continue with their responsibilities towards the day to day management of the company. 

Historically, Stax have been a major customer of PDS’s logistics operation, which means there will be no interruptions to the service as transition will be minimal. The move will allow Stax to fully secure vertical integration of the supply chain whilst adding another feather to their cap in the form of a full distribution network that can be offered as a standalone service to help other suppliers in the sector.

The acquisition is exciting for Stax customers as it further demonstrates Stax’s unwavering dedication to the independent retailer sector. The advancement in Stax’s technological capabilities and PDS purchase presents a huge future proofing stride in Stax’s business model.

Stax Joint MD, David Hibbert commented on the deal:  “For some time we have discussed taking further control of our own distribution, so the opportunity to acquire PDS couldn’t have been more timely. PDS is a well-respected company with a long standing heritage who we have had a fantastic relationship with as a customer and we’re delighted that the existing staff] will be staying on board as they’re integral to our plans.”

Stax will assume control of PDS with immediate effect and are keen to reassure both PDS and Stax customers that there will be no disruption to their normal delivered service.   

Handy Distribution, the UK’s largest Flymo & McCulloch Distributor are pleased to support the launch of the new McCulloch 58v Range of cordless Garden Machinery this coming Spring. The new 58v battery platform will provide customers with a choice of Line Trimmers, Chainsaws, Hedge Trimmers and Blowers and provide a 2.5 A/h or 5.2A/h lithium ion battery option.

Mark Moseley, Sales Director Handy Distribution said “As a continued and trusted partner, this new cordless range strengthens our position as the UK’s leading distributor for the Husqvarna Group and is a welcomed extension to the broad range of electric, petrol & cordless Flymo and McCulloch product in Handy’s portfolio.  As the market moves more toward cordless technology, this addition will undoubtedly service the needs of many of our customers”

Howard Scott, Regional Director, Consumer Brands Division - Husqvarna Group, said: “It’s fantastic to be able to unveil such an impressive array of battery operated power tools as we move forward in to the 2018 season and we’re confident that with the support of Handy Distribution, the innovative product range will be a hit.

“The Power Li~NK Pro range boasts the latest in technology, is easy to use and fuss-free – no more battling with wires or fuel – giving consumers the power to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Our longstanding relationship with Handy as a distributor ensures the team communicates the benefits of our products effectively to customers throughout the UK.”

As a pure Garden Machinery Specialist Distributor since 1938, Handy carry over £6m worth of stock in its Swindon based warehouses and provide a free next day delivery service for all orders over £150 to the Independent Garden Machinery Dealers, Garden Centre customers and Key & National Partners. A dedicated Customers Service and Spare Parts team ensures its customers have the full after sales support needed to support both retailer and customer needs.

Full details of the new McCulloch and Flymo 2018 product will soon be available in the new Handy Price book this December or for more information, contact Handy Distribution on 01793 333220.

Squire’s are celebrating after being awarded the title of ‘Best Garden Centre’ at the Express Home and Living Awards 2017.

Squire’s with 15 garden centres across the South East, fought off strong competition to take home the prestigious award.

A star-studded ceremony was held last Thursday 26^th October in London’s West End, where the biggest and brightest names in homes and gardens were celebrated.

Daily Express owner Richard Desmond championed the awards as a tribute to businesses that turn our houses and flats into happy living spaces. The judging panel included Mr. Desmond, as well as BBC One presenters Martin Roberts of Homes Under The Hammer, and Gabrielle Blackman of DIY SOS.

Mark Dolan, comedian, writer and star of Channel 4’s Balls of Steel, kept the glitzy audience amused as master of ceremonies.

Karen Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Squire’s commented, “We are absolutely delighted to have won the award for Best Garden Centre! I was honoured to pick this award up on behalf of the whole team at Squire’s, who always work so hard and provide excellent customer service. We are so proud of all our centres, and we were up against some tough competition, which makes this win even more special.”

Australian Business media experts are asking questions about Bunnings in the UK after owners Wesfarmers revealed in its first quarter sales update that Bunnings United Kingdom and Ireland division had sales of £276 million in the first three months of the financial year, down from £320 million a year earlier.

BUNNINGS has hit a snag. The $700 million UK expansion is looking like a bad idea, with one analyst warning of “disaster” is the headline on news.com.au

Bunnings sustaining big sales losses with Homebase stores reports diysummit.org

Is Wesfarmers about to join a long list of Australian companies have entered the UK economy and been forced to retreat after missteps or worse? asks sharecafe.com.au

In the Wesfarmers 2018 First Quarter Retail Sales Results the company reports:

Total sales for the quarter were £276 million, a decrease of 13.8 per cent on the prior corresponding period. Store-on-store sales decreased 11.9 per cent.

The early trading performance of the first eight Bunnings Warehouse pilots is encouraging, with solid sales uplifts achieved across the pilot group. The coming months will test performance in different seasonal
conditions and BUKI will continue to patiently trial a range of formats, locations, and competitive environments to achieve proof of concept.

Bunnings Group Managing Director Michael Schneider said that, while still early days, the engagement of customers, suppliers, team members, and local communities with the Bunnings stores remains pleasing.
Despite steady sales in core home improvement and garden categories, Homebase’s trading performance relative to the previous comparable period was adversely affected by the significant clearance of
discontinued ranges last year.

“While the performance of Homebase is disappointing, we continue to be encouraged by the performance of the Bunnings pilots. The BUKI team remains focused on stabilising the performance of the Homebase
stores as well as delivering proof of concept for the Bunnings format,” Mr Schneider said.

There were 244 Homebase stores and eight Bunnings stores as at 30 September 2017. A total of 15 to 20 pilot stores are expected to be either trading or nearing completion by 31 December 2017, subject to
relevant approvals.

Planters Tamworth had a successful half term week with their innovative Pumpkin Paddock which included story time, broomstick flying and Pumpkin carving.

Owner Gerald Ingram told GTN Xtra "It has gone very well.  By end of business on Sunday we will have sold 1900 pumpkins compared with 100 in normal years.  We charged £5 a
child who gets a pumpkin and £2 for adults, it averages £7 per pumpkin."

"The busiest day so far has been Wednesday when we sold 250 pumpkins.  We had to suspend online booking and advertising on Thursday in case we could not get more
pumpkins. We spent £2000 on banners and large scale characters but they will last years.   We are already planning next years event.   We will increase the price but give away the broomstick and carving kits as we have found they don't last more than a day anyway with the use they've had."

"We even had Craig Tracey, the local MP arrive, who has said he will be bringing his dog to Santa Paws."

The redevelopment of Haskins at Snowhill has been given the go-ahead, despite the planning authority’s reservations about development on Green Belt land...

Tandridge District Council say the proposals constitute “inappropriate development” but outweigh the potential harm. Approval is subject to special conditions and the consent of the Secretary of State.

The application involves new buildings, an extra 100 parking spaces and a new access to the site.

Haskins said the new centre would offer customers a significantly improved shopping and dining experience with all products and facilities contained within a single building with wider aisles, better lighting, more covered space and a larger restaurant. The plant department will be re-orientated to the south. The development will provide an additional 80 jobs.

.

The planners said in a statement: “Whilst the scheme would constitute inappropriate development as it would be materially larger than the existing buildings and the extension of the car park would result in encroachment into the countryside, nevertheless it is judged that very special circumstances exist to outweigh this harm.

“The proposal would not result in significant harm to the amenities of neighbouring properties and would respect the character and appearance of the area.”

Storm Brian had a huge effect on garden centre trading at the start of the Autumn half term week. Total sales may have been down just 1.4% on the same week last year but plants, garden products, growing media and wild bird care were all down by significant amounts.

Only Christmas showed upward movement with the GTN Christmas Top 50 up by 8.5% on the previous week and static year on year.

Fortunately the weather for the rest of half term week has been much better with Halloween events seemingly well attended. 

We now need a minimum 8% increase year on year for the next eight weeks to get his year’s total sales volumes up to parity with 2016.

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

Garden Products - down 10%
Growing Media - down 21%
Wild Bird Care - down 25%
Christmas Products - up 8%
All Plants Index - down 16%
All Items Index - down 1%

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

After a retail career that has taken Paul Hilliam across the UK after starting with the Great Mills chain and various locations with the Dobbies Garden Centre Group, Dorset born Paul has returned to his hometown having been appointed Centre Manager of one of the UK’s longest established Garden Centres in Christchurch.

Martin Stewart, Managing Director of the Dorset based Stewarts Garden Centres, says that he is delighted that Paul has joined the team and will play an important role with the company that can trace its origin back to 1742.  Since opening the country’s first Garden Centre in October 1955, the business has expanded.

“Last year we announced a multi-million pound refurbishment and rebuild for our country centre at Broomhill Wimborne Garden Centre and Nurseries, and acquired the Abbey Garden Centre in Titchfield, Hampshire. Adding Paul’s experience and enthusiasm tog the management team will enable us to focus on the new development and the continued enhancement of the Abbey centre.” said Martin Stewart

The award winning Christchurch was officially opened October 1961 and has seen major improvements and investment over recent years, including a restaurant size coffee shop.

Paul, who attended Portchester Secondary School in the 70s, relishes the opportunity to work within such a horticulturally rooted business, saying that there are few Garden Centre groups that continue to operate nurseries and have a diverse selection of services for both home owners and commerce within the region.

Members of Swindon Wildcats Ice Hockey Team joined skating sessions at Whitehall Lacock last Friday to the huge acclaim of half term skaters.

One facebook comment was: "This little boy not stopped talking about it. What a lovely bunch of players, thank you"

The Whitehall Halloween Ice Rink opened on 19th October and is running until 7pm on October 31st.  An Ice Rink Café conveniently located next to the Ice Rink offers a range of refreshments, including hot drinks, hot bites to eat and snacks to recharge with after a fun time on the ice.

Susanna Simpson from Whitehall Garden Centres told GTN Xtra; "The Ice Rink has gone amazingly well this half term."

Due to increased demand from retailers, Mr Fothergill’s is set to receive delivery of another container of Seasol seaweed concentrate from Australia in the coming months.

David Carey, Mr Fothergill’s Joint Managing Director, says: “We are delighted that Seasol has sold in so well to our retail customers in the UK. This exciting addition to the market will give gardeners the opportunity to garden in a more environmentally friendly manner and achieve overall better results in the garden. The big question is – will there be enough seaweed in Australia to keep up with our demand?

Seasol seaweed concentrate is an all-natural plant tonic, offering a complete treatment for all areas of the garden, promoting healthy growth of plants, flowers, vegetables and even lawns. It contains useful micro-nutrients and is rich in trace elements. Used regularly, the concentrate has been proven to provide excellent chemical-free plant nourishment.

As well as being watered directly into the soil for uptake at the roots, Seasol can also be applied as a foliar spray for fast absorption of nutrients. Mr Fothergill’s has also seen improved germination and increased initial root growth from seeds soaked in Seasol before sowing.

Seasol can be applied at any time of year on all garden plants and is available for supply to garden centres from January 2018. The 1 litre bottle has a RRP of £7.99 and is available in cases of 9 or as a floor standing display of 64.

To find out more about Seasol seaweed concentrate and the full Mr Fothergill’s range, log on at www.mr-fothergills-trade.com or telephone 01638 554111.

Leading home improvement and garden wholesaler, Decco has been appointed retail distributor for garden power products supplier Husqvarna, covering the company’s consumer garden brands including Flymo and McCulloch.

The move strengthens Decco’s offering in the garden power category, enabling them to deliver hover, petrol and electric lawn cutting from leading brands to garden centres and High Street retailers.

 Michael Holden, Key Account Manager Consumer Brands at Husqvarna, said: “We are delighted to have established this new partnership with Decco. The company shares a strong ethos with us for quality products and it operates an impressive network across the UK.”

“We see Decco as a key player in the distribution of garden products to independent retailers including garden centres and high street hardware stores, which are all integral parts of our business, Decco will really help us to meet our objectives in these areas.  We’re looking forward to working closely with the Decco team into 2018 and beyond.”

Supplier Relations Manager of Decco, Chris Gladwin commenting on the company’s latest supplier partnership explained, “We’re delighted to be working with Husqvarna to increase the distribution of the Flymo and McCulloch brands in the UK.  The addition of these great brands strengthens our garden power offer and provides more choice for our independent DIY store and garden centre customers nationwide.”  

Chris Gladwin added, “Retailers wanting more information on the Flymo and McCulloch ranges can now contact their local Decco branch.”

With seven strategic locations around the country giving a total of over 350,000 square feet of warehousing space and holding over £10m worth of stock, Decco offers service and availability to independent retailers and garden centres throughout the UK. 

Supplying a wide range of DIY, gardening, and housewares products, it has strong partnerships with the leading suppliers enabling independent retailers to benefit from the strength and differentiation of high profile brands. 

To learn more about Decco visit www.decco.co.uk

This summer Vital Earth and Bord Na Mona decided to split from their joint venture, which saw Vital Earth distribute the GroWise growing media range to national and independent garden centres in the UK since 2011.

Vital Earth still retain the same aim, which is to eliminate the use of peat and meet the government 2020 peat free target. In June 2017 further significant investment has been made into the in-vessel composting plant and the bagging operation at Ashbourne, Derbyshire.

Vital Earth have now entered a new agreement with the Aggregates R Us Group, which allows shared knowledge of packed products for the Garden Centre industry and a distribution network. In addition to this, Vital Earth provide a Nationwide delivery service and can offer next day delivery on all growing media products.

Vital Earth National Sales Manager Dave Gibbs said that due to the shared resource of both companies, the newly launched SupaGrow range offers a high-quality peat free compost at a delivered price; where garden centres can retain very high margin levels.

Vital Earth Operation Director Bob Potts confirms that the same reliable peat-free mix can be found, albeit in a new bag sold under the ‘SupaGrow’ brand. He also explains that with due to the recent investments, they are testing new blends for 2018 that can offer further alternatives to peat based composts.

www.supagrow.co.uk

0800 772 37 39

Earlier this week Oracle in Redwood Shores California announced that Wyevale Garden Centres have invested in the Oracle Retail Stores suite of solutions including the latest version of Oracle Retail Xstore Point-of-Service, Oracle MICROS Hardware and Oracle Retail Customer Engagement with Oracle Retail Consulting.

Oracle say that the significant investment (reported elesewhere to be £7.5m) builds on the relationship between Oracle Retail and Wyevale as the brand transitions from MICROS solution Retail J to Oracle Retail Xstore Point-of-Service.

Andrew Parr, IT Director, Wyevale Garden Centres said: “Oracle Retail Xstore Point-of-Service will deliver a substantially improved experience for both customers and colleagues and is the foundation for our future development of an integrated omnichannel platform. With the migration, we look forward to taking advantage of the benefits of the integration and modern functionality of the Stores Suite with the Oracle MICROS hardware”

“Oracle Retail Consulting has been working hard to create a rapid deployment model for our Oracle Retail Stores Suite of Solutions. We are committed to Wyevale’s success from pilot through the rollout,” said Lou Frio, Vice President, Oracle Consulting.

“We are thrilled with the expansion of our partnership with Wyevale. Our hardware and software are engineered to work better together. We have integrated design and user experiences that give consistent content delivery across multiple devices, from tablets to workstations to empower associates and consumers,” said Ray Carlin, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Oracle Retail.

International Toy Retailer Hamleys deployed Oracle Retail Xstore Point-of-Service across its UK, Republic of Ireland and Finnish store estate earlier this year.

If you’re studying or teaching horticulture in the UK, we’re glad you found us ...

Our scholarships support future horticulturists so that the UK’s ornamental horticultural industry can continue to grow. At £1,000 or more, one of our scholarships can really boost a student’s learning potential.

Scholarships include student awards as well as several others that are sponsored by major horticultural companies; in addition to funding, these can provide work placements and the chance to travel.

Scholarship Season is open from September to January every year. We make the application process as straightforward as possible and invite applicants to tell us about their passion for plants and goals for the future. Candidates are advised to also highlight their talent, as evidenced by grades achieved, tutor assessments and work experience.

Scholarships are open to all students completing horticulture related courses in the UK, and some also support those who are in the early days of their horticultural career. Student applicants must be attending, or enrolled to attend college, university or a similar educational establishment on a full or part time basis with a view to seeking permanent full time employment in commercial or production ornamental horticulture on completion of their course.

Working applicants should be employed in commercial or production ornamental horticulture in the UK.

Applicants can apply for a scholarship via an online form or they can send an application form by email to info@davidcolegravefoundation.org.uk or by post to:

The David Colegrave Foundation c/o The HTA, Horticulture House, Chilton, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0RN.

The tutor or employer of students shortlisted for a scholarship selection may be contacted by the foundation for a reference.

Over £46,000 worth of scholarships has been awarded in the past four years to students studying at 12 UK colleges.

For more information on scholarships visit www.davidcolegravefoundation.org.uk

Visitors to RHA Wisley have voted current FleuroStar winner Calibrachoa MiniFamous Double PinkTastic from Selecta as their favourite new plant.

After taking home the much-coveted FleuroStar Award as the new variety with wow factor at point of sale, this double bi-colored Calibrachoa now was the People's Choice for Calibrachoa in hanging baskets in Wisley’s trials display.

Sabatino Urzo, the RHS’s trials manager, said: “The People's Choice Award is a great way of engaging the public with the RHS trials programme and points to popular trends and fashions in planting.”

Sally van der Horst, Secretary General at Fleuroselect said the choice of the British public re-affirmed the decision made by the FleuroStar trade jury. “I'm delighted to see that our international group of 30 experts from within the industry successfully detects new breeding achievements with a high commercial potential at a very early stage," she added.

Zinnia elegans 'Giant Deep Red' (Benary's Giant Series) and Zinnia elegans 'Molotov Mixed' from Burpee Europe were the public's top favourites from the '2017, Year of the Zinnia' trial of more than 140 varieties organised by Fleuroselect in conjuction with RHS Wisley. The Year of the Zinnia trial follows on from the '2015, Year of the Sunflower' and '2016, Year of the Cosmos' trials, with all varieties supplied by Fleuroselect members. The RHS expert plant committees will shortly be recommending those deemed best for all-round garden value for the RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM).

Writtle University College garden design student Jiyoon Kim has won a silver medal and the People’s Choice Award at the Seoul Garden Show in South Korea.

Jiyoon, who has just completed an MA in Garden Design, designed and constructed the garden called ‘You, Me and Everyone’, which is intended to share the concept of the Korean traditional garden.

The 27-year-old explained: “Korean traditional gardens were not simply the private gardens attached to the house, but for a culture of entertaining and sharing with many people. Through a new interpretation of the ‘BangJiWonDoHyeong’ pond in the Korean traditional garden, the pond design was expressed by the structure and paving material and the circular island was designed as a circular chair structure in the middle.

 “I am very thankful for all I learnt at Writtle. The campus inspired me every week. I am grateful for the practical knowledge I gained and the inspirational garden tours to sites such as the Beth Chatto Garden, RHS Hyde Hall and Marks Hall. I learnt from enthusiastic and expert staff and developed my design skills, which helped me work in the real construction world.”

The Seoul Garden Show is a major exhibition showcasing the latest trends in garden design. This year there were 80 gardens on display. The People’s Choice Award was given to the garden that visitors and journalists voted the best.

Dr Jill Raggett, Emeritus Reader in Gardens and Designed Landscapes, who was one of Jiyoon’s tutors, said: “I am thrilled with Jiyoon’s success in the innovative and prestigious Seoul Garden Show. “It is wonderful to see her continue her creative career after she undertook the unique and rigorous Writtle University College MA in Garden Design. We need more green spaces for everyone to enjoy around the world and graduates such as Jiyoon will make a positive difference to people’s lives.”

To find out more about the MA Garden Design, use this link .

Pictured: Jiyoon Kim and here award-winning garden at the Seoul Garden Show.

Gorgeous new additions to the best-selling Sophie Conran for Burgon & Ball collection have been unveiled this autumn, with a variety of beautiful new products for home and garden, designed to make everyday living just that little bit more stylish.

In the garden, new ideas for garden decoration combine designer style with practicality. Handwoven wire baskets are a delight to use around the garden, for harvesting fresh fruit and vegetables, gathering flowers, or even collecting eggs. And to bring a ‘country garden’ feel to any herb patch, beautiful plant labels are elegantly embossed with the names of six favourite herbs, to clearly mark the leaves needed to perfect any dish!

A charming garden clock and dial garden thermometer are new to the Sophie range. In a timeless buttermilk shade, these elegant items are enhanced with lots of subtle designer touches, while sturdy frost-proof construction lets them stay out all year round, marking time and temperature as the seasons change around them.

Following up on the huge popularity of the Sophie Conran galvanized bird food tin, two new apple bird feeders care for our feathered friends in style. Appealingly shaped as a heart or a house, these feeders hold an apple or other fruit to offer a healthy addition to the diet of garden visitors.

For the stylish home, a gorgeous matt finish buttermilk shade features on a set of herb pots in a tray, which have been designed specifically to hold the larger living herb pots available from supermarkets. And to keep houseplants happy and healthy, the elegant matt finish also features on a beautifully-designed indoor watering can with a long, tapered spout for targeted watering.

Also new is a stylish selection of ideas for garden and home featuring a classic dark blue striped ticking fabric in heavyweight cotton. With items including a multi-pocketed gardening waist apron, technically-advanced gardening gloves, a set of stylish dining placemats, a cosy draught excluder, and a handy door stop, there are plenty of places to enjoy this timeless stripe, all round the home and garden.

Designer, author, cook and gardener Sophie is the only daughter in the renowned Conran design dynasty. She has collaborated with Burgon & Ball since 2010, producing award-winning products which enjoy a near-cult following among keen female gardeners. Beautiful premium packaging with gold foil details, attached with leather cord, marks out this collection as a range of distinction. With RRPs from £6.99 to £29.99, the new items are sure to please Sophie aficionadas everywhere.

Staff and friends at Downham Home and Garden in Norfolk helped to raise almost £10,000 to support cancer patients at a Kings Lynn hospital.

Tim and Julie Glover presented a cheque for £9,469 for the Hospital’s Macmillan Cancer Care and Treatment Fund to Queen Elizabeth Hospital chief executive Jon Green.

The money was raised over two years through car boot sales, charity events and performances by West Norfolk rock band The Strollers.

Mrs Glover said: “It has been a real community effort to raise this money with staff at the centre giving up their time at the various events. We would also like to thank Booker’s Cash and Carry for their support.”

Mr Green said: “The West Norfolk community is an important part of Team QEH. Without them we would not be able to do what we do.”

Pictured: from left, Jon Green, Julie Glover, volunteer Margaret Carter, Matron Dawn Slack and Tim Glover. Picture: Victoria Fear

Garden lighting sales have been blown off course this week with sales volumes in the GTN Bestsellers chart down 46% on the same week last year, causing another dip in the Top 50 garden products sales index.

Are Christmas lighting display shining brighter this year to deflect sales or is it just the inclement weather?

This week's highlights were:

• Pruning is a high sales driver with Gripsnipz Mini Cutting Tool Orange re-entering at No 5..
• The high winds prompted plenty of tree related sales: Gardman Heavy Duty Tree Ties 30cm moved up 22 places to No 16.
• Pots continue to move: Apta’s Small Roll Top Planter is the highest new entry at No 32.

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

Established as one of Ireland’s foremost suppliers of seaweed fertiliser, The Fast Grow Fertiliser company are now looking to develop their market by expanding into the UK.

Since the formation of the company by Shane Walsh in 2015, the Fast Grow name has developed rapidly in Ireland with over 30 per cent of Irish garden retailers now stocking the brand. Thanks to increased production capacity they are now entering the UK garden retail market with 2 products, Fast Grow Seaweed fertiliser and Fast Grow chicken manure.

Commenting on the UK market Shane Walsh told GTN Xtra: “Our products have been available in the UK for a while and have principally been used by veg growing enthusiasts. As a result of very positive results from gardening trials we now feel ready to offer this product into the garden retail market in the UK.”

To assist with his UK strategy, Fast Grow have hired the services of business consultant, Neville Stein, who is well recognised for his ability to develop markets. Stein, who accompanied Walsh on his first sales visit to the UK in August says; “we had a fantastic response on our initial sales visit picking up over 30 quality customers. It seems there is a growing interest and demand for seaweed fertiliser and so I am confident that Fast Grow will become a key item stocked by many garden centres.”

To assist develop the market in selected regions Walsh has also commissioned sales agent Bob Haward to represent the company in the eastern region of the UK.

Walsh, who has an ambition to achieve 250 stockists throughout the UK will be further developing the range of products available under the Fast Grow brand saying, “my garden centre customers in Ireland are getting many repeat sales from gardeners who have had great results from using the fertiliser so we are looking at new blends in order to provide gardeners with a range of great fertilisers.” 

Continuing its successful programme of Buyer Connect events GIMA has confirmed that it has teamed up with Longacres – the UK’s largest independent garden centre – to hold a special speed networking event with the buying team from this garden retailer.

The family owned group of garden centres currently consists of four centres, with the flagship Bagshot store retaining the title ‘highest turnover garden centre in the UK’ for the last seven years.  With an ambitious expansion plan, Longacres owner, Nigel Long, is keen to meet with new and exciting garden and giftware suppliers to assist with this growth.

All Buyer Connect supplier participants will be allocated 20 minutes with the relevant Longacres buyer, including Nigel Long himself. Each supplier will be able to bring two team members to present and are urged to consider presenting information regarding product features and benefits, as well as cost price proposals.

The Longacres buying team will be focussing on the following product categories – with both GIMA members and non-members invited to participate - Plastic Pots, Containers, Core Gardening Lines, Garden Décor, Watering, Artificial, Machinery, Tools, Fertilisers & Chemicals Pest Control, Outdoor Paint, Paving, Aggregates, Timber Fencing & Related Products, Outdoor pots, Water Features & Accessories, Candles, Indoor Clocks, Home Décor, and Giftware.

As this is such a high-profile event, GIMA is urging interested parties to confirm their involvement now to avoid disappointment. The cost for inclusion is £95.00 + VAT for GIMA members and £145 + VAT for non-members. Deadline for entry is November 17^th.

Further information about the Meet the Buyer Event in association with Longacres, please contact the GIMA team by calling 01959 564947 or visiting www.gima.org.uk.

It was a feast of suet treats that sold well in Wild Bird Care last week. Eight of the Top 20 lines in the GTN Bestsellers Wild Bird Care chart were suet or fat ball feeds.

That meant fat feed products increased sales by 14% in a week when overall wild bird care products dropped by 1% on the previous week.

This week’s highlights were:

• Gardman Fat Snax, tub of 50, held onto the No 1 Wild Bird care line for the 4th week running, even outselling the popular Gardeman Poppy Bird Feeders.
• ChapelWood Suet Logs, 6 packs, were the highest chart re-entry at No 3.
• Hedgehog feed sales increased significantly – Gardman Hedgehog Bites moved up 22 places to No 8 and Jacobi Jayne Rowena’s Hedgehog Mix was at No 21.

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

Caroline Holford has joined Smart Garden Products  as Trade Marketing Manager.

Caroline brings a wealth of trade marketing experience having spent several years working with Dexam, Canon, HoMedics and Bic, among others.

On joining a new industry, Caroline says “I am looking forward to transferring my extensive marketing experience in housewares, licensing and FMCG to the gardening sector.  I feel very fortunate to be joining the Smart Garden team at a time of such growth for both the company and the industry.  I am looking forward to taking on the challenge and feel inspired by the passion which is evident at every level in the company”.

Jonathan Stobart, Managing Director of Smart Garden Products adds “I’m delighted that Caroline has joined our team at such an exciting time as we continue to rapidly expand our business, while her experience will enable her to hit the ground running and drive forward our marketing and communications strategy”.

To find out more about Smart Garden’s market leading product offering visit www.sgpuk.com

Storm Brian may have affected gardening sales but festive sales certainly prove the value of having Christmas on sale to weatherproof the business at this time of year.

Early sales of baubles, either personalised or special colour themes continue to fill baskets, with Christmas sweet lines proving popular too.

This week’s highlights were:

• Steenland Gold Net Chocolate Coins 100g move up 12 places to No 3, their highest ever position in the GTN Bestsellers Christmas Chart.
• Snowtime’s Battery Operated Colour Change LED 8cm Acrylic Snowman is the highest placed Christmas chart re-entry at No 14.
• A traditional Berry 3 Stem Pick from Lotus Imports is the highest new entry at No 16.

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

EP Barrus Ltd has announced changes to its sales management team within the company’s Garden Divisions.  Mark Hewett steps up from Senior Key Account Manager to Sales Manager for the Garden Tools and Products Division, and the Lawn & Garden Division welcomes Craig Hoare to the role of Sales Manager.

Mark Hewett’s wealth of experience in the garden tools sector spanning almost 18 years has been gained in sales positions with companies including True Temper, Apollo Gardening and Spear & Jackson.

Mark (pictured above) joined Barrus as Key Account Manager for the newly formed Garden Tools Division in 2009 which was set up to handle the UK distribution for WOLF-Garten and Wilkinson Sword garden tools. Progressing to the role of Senior Key Account Manager, Mark has been instrumental in building the Wilkinson Sword brand within the garden sector and developing and expanding the product line-up to reflect a wider range of gardening tasks and customer preferences.

“I have enjoyed the challenge of being involved in driving the success of two premium garden tool brands WOLF-Garten and Wilkinson Sword. It is exciting times for the Garden Tools Division, and with the acquisition of Town & Country, this now presents us with even greater opportunities for future growth. I am looking forward to taking on the responsibility for growing the business further through the introduction of new products and expansion into different markets.

Tim Hart, Director of Sales & Marketing at Barrus commented, “Mark has played a key role in driving sales and building our profile in the garden tool sector. With the support of a dedicated and committed team, I am confident that that his proven track record in achieving strong results will serve us well as we move into our next phase of development.

Craig Hoare (above) brings extensive experience gained in the garden machinery sector with 17 years’ service in sales management positions at Garden Machines Northampton, one of the largest garden machinery specialists in the South of England.  Covering all aspects of sales management, Craig’s role was all-encompassing including responsibility for operational and marketing functions making him a key addition to the Barrus team. During his time at Garden Machines, the company achieved Service Dealer Garden Machinery Dealer of the Year in 2010.

Craig is enthusiastic about joining Barrus, “I am pleased to have been given the opportunity to work with some of the highest profile brands in the industry including Cub Cadet, Lawnflite and Agri-Fab. The quality and range of products for the 2018 season are very impressive, and I am looking forward to working with our dealer network to drive future sales. I enjoy working in this industry, and I am delighted to join such a well-respected company with a heritage spanning 100-years.”

Tim Hart, Director of Sales & Marketing at Barrus added, “Craig’s skill set is extremely varied. His experience from the dealer perspective is invaluable, and we look forward to his contribution to the continuing growth and future success of the Lawn & Garden Division.”

Wallflowers, Erysimum, were once again the stars for the third week in October.  Despite a week when high winds and heavy rain really took its toll on plant sales, Erysimum sales increased by 4.5% week on week to be the only Top 10 plant genus that grew sales.

• Amaryllis in the green showed signs of good early Christmas plant sales.
• Senecio were the highest new entry with the award-winning ‘Angel Wings’ amongst the genus sales.
• Calocephalus, another silver foliage plant, saw a 134% increase to move up 20 places to No 17.

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

The European Commission has dropped its proposal for a 10 year license extension for glyphosate after the European Parliament called today for the weedkiller to be phased out in the next five years.

Europe has been debating the use of the herbicide for more than two years and reported by news agency Reuters; "Tuesday’s non-binding vote comes a day before representatives from the 28 EU member nations were due to meet in Brussels to discuss and give their view on a Commission proposal to extend the license for glyphosate by 10 years.

The European Parliament News Service reports that the non-binding resolution was adopted by 355 votes to 204, with 111 abstentions. EU member states will vote on a Commission proposal to renew the marketing authorisation of glyphosate on Wednesday 25th October 2017.

A European Citizen’s initiative calling for a ban on the herbicide reached more than a million signatures in less than a year and will trigger a public hearing in Parliament in November.

Other reports say that MEP's also demanded that the Commission and European Union member states immediately ban the use of glyphosate in households or public parks and on farms if other biological pest control systems were available.

In June 2016 the EU passed an 18-month extension to extend the license for 15 years. That expires at the end of the year.  The initial resolution put today called for glyphosate to be phased out by the end of 2020. However, an amendment pushed that back to December 2022.

See the full Reuters story here: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-eu-health-glyphosate/eu-lawmakers-demand-five-year-phase-out-of-weedkiller-glyphosate-idUSKBN1CT21H

and the EU Parliament News service at: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20171020IPR86572/meps-demand-glyphosate-phase-out-with-full-ban-by-end-2022

Other reports about the vote can be found at: http://www.france24.com/en/20171024-eu-parliament-votes-ban-controversial-weedkiller-glyphosate-monsanto-roundup

Property Week has reported Bunnings UK MD, PJ Davis as saying: "We will be opening Bunnings stores before Christmas to test how that smaller format will work in the UK.”

Speaking at the Accessible Retail conference PJ told delegates that they will trial small-format high street stores of 20,000 to 50,000 sq ft in urban areas.  The map above shows how Bunnings dominates urban areas in Australia, this is just a part of the Sydney area.

Bunnings will be opening their newest conversion from Homebase at Harlow, Essex shortly. That will take the number of Bunnings openings in the UK to ten, half of their target of twenty by the end of 2017.

Read the full report in Property Week at: http://www.propertyweek.com/news/bunnings-unveils-its-bold-expansion-plan/5093098.article 

Already the biggest UK retailer in terms of catering covers, at around 1,000, Bents have added more food options for their increasing customer base for Winter and Christmas 2017 by turning a part of Open Skies into a Bavarian Style Food Market.

The Winter Food Market opened to customers on Wednesday 18th October and is set to be a big draw over the coming months.  Arriving at 12:30 on Wednesday afternoon the enlarged car park was very nearly full and the Winter Food Market, an addition to the existing five food offerings at Bents which include a Tapas Bar and the Pet Cafe, was full to capacity.

The menu includes traditional Bavarian favourites such as Bratwurst, a Bents own veggie option of Pulled Mushrooms (very tasty) with a selection of hot and cold drinks including beers and wine.

  

See a gallery of photos from our visit including Bents Christmas displays where the Pink theme was proving most popular in early sales.

Hillmount Ards has opened its doors following a £1 million investment in transforming the site of the original Thriving Life Church into a 10,000sq ft lifestyle garden centre with the creation of 25 jobs for Newtownards in Northern Ireland.

Robin Mercer, Hillmount Ards, said:  "I always promised my wife Edith that I'd open a garden centre in her home shopping town of Ards and after we opened Hillmount Bangor we began to search for a site. 

"Developing Hillmount Ards has been a real labour of love for Edith, our son Alan and I, and we believe we have created a store where the local community can gather to shop and to relax over coffee, similar to the experience our customers enjoy at our sister garden centres in Bangor and Belfast.  It was also important for us to ensure that some of the characteristics of the original church were retained and for Hillmount Ards to blend naturally into the surrounding countryside and neighbourhood and I am happy to say that we have achieved that."



Speaking at the official launch, Robert Adair, Mayor of Ards and North Down, said: "On behalf of Ards and North Down Borough Council I'd like to welcome Hillmount to Ards and congratulate the Mercer family on the investment and job creation that they have provided for our local area.  We wish you every success with your new venture in the town."

Hillmount Ards official opening extends over Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd October with shoppers being treated to barbecue sampling and various activities across the store while browsing the Christmas Shop and 30,000 gardening products including a wide variety of plants, trees and shrubs, exquisite gifts, garden furniture, barbecues and accessories.  Diners in the 55 seater The Gardener's Rest on the first floor mezzanine can relax and enjoy their meal while taking in views across north down from the unique feature window.



The Mercer family has built up an unrivalled reputation in the gardening industry locally since opening their first nursery in Castlereagh almost 80 years ago and the growth into the Newtownards area is a natural development for the family business which now employs almost 100 staff across its three sites.

www.hillmount.co.uk

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 2015 as well as 2016 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 01733 775700, e-mail karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

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

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

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

Highlights of the GTN Wild Bird Care Bestsellers chart for this week are here

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