 Following a successful season for Snowlodge, Woodlodge Products is delighted to announce that it has officially taken over the distribution of the iconic Jingles Christmas Lighting range. A beloved name in seasonal lighting, Jingles has been a staple in garden centres for years, renowned for its high-quality, festive lighting products that capture the magic of Christmas.
This strategic move further solidifies Woodlodge’s position as a trusted partner for garden centres and independent retailers, enhancing its diverse portfolio with a range synonymous with the festive season. From twinkling fairy lights to show-stopping outdoor displays, Jingles’ product line offers garden centres the opportunity to inspire customers looking to create memorable festive experiences.
Michael Wooldridge, Managing Director of Woodlodge Products, told GTN Xtra: “We’re thrilled to bring Jingles into the Woodlodge family. Its reputation for delivering premium Christmas lighting has made it a go-to choice for garden centres and their customers alike. By combining Jingles’ established legacy with Woodlodge’s extensive distribution network and dedication to quality, we’re confident we can help retailers bring even more joy to the Christmas season.”
 Jingles’ Christmas lighting range is known for its versatility, featuring products suitable for indoor and outdoor use, with styles ranging from classic warm white lights to contemporary multi-coloured displays. The collection has been developed over many years curated to ensure ease of use, energy efficiency, and long-lasting performance, making it a favourite among families and households.
Retailers already familiar with Jingles can expect the same exceptional quality and design, now backed by Woodlodge’s industry-leading service and support. Woodlodge plans to expand the reach of Jingles, making the brand accessible to even more retailers and consumers across the UK and beyond.
Retailers interested in learning more about Jingles or adding the range to their festive offering can contact Woodlodge Products directly on 01666 501000 or snowlodge@woodlodge.co.uk
Woodlodge warmly invites you to the Harrogate Christmas Fair Stand QS4 in the Queen Suite on the 12th – 15th January 2025 to showcase their new range and to enjoy the complimentary bar.
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Four days left for customers to vote for The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Teams
See the list of 127 garden centre teams that are being voted for as The Greatest at Christmas 2024
Thousands of garden centre customers across the UK have made their on-line votes for The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Teams and with four days to go until voting closes on Sunday 22nd December the Top 30 teams in A-Z order are:
- Albrighton BGC
- Alton Garden Centre
- Azure Garden Centre
- Birkacre Garden Centre
- Bosworths Burton Latimer
- Bow Garden & Aquatic Centre
- Braintree BGC
- Bridgenorth BGC
- Brockworth BGC
- Charlecote BGC
- Fakenham Garden Centre
- Garden King
- Harrogate BGC
- Hillmount Belfast
- Keydell Garden Centre
- Mackenzie & Cruickshank
- Munro’s Nurseries
- Newquay Garden Centre
- Old Railway Line
- Perrywood Sudbury
- Perrywood Tiptree
- Planters Bretby
- Pughs Radyr
- Pughs Wenvoe
- Roxton BGC
- Snowdonia Nurseries
- Summerhill Garden Centre
- Trioscape Garden Centre
- Trowell Garden centre
- Wolseley Bridge BGC
  
Thousands of garden centre customers across the UK have made their on-line votes for The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Teams and with four days to go until voting closes on Sunday 22nd December the Top 30 teams in A-Z order are:
- Albrighton BGC
- Alton Garden Centre
- Azure Garden Centre
- Birkacre Garden Centre
- Bosworths Burton Latimer
- Bow Garden & Aquatic Centre
- Braintree BGC
- Bridgenorth BGC
- Brockworth BGC
- Charlecote BGC
- Fakenham Garden Centre
- Garden King
- Harrogate BGC
- Hillmount Belfast
- Keydell Garden Centre
- Mackenzie & Cruickshank
- Munro’s Nurseries
- Newquay Garden Centre
- Old Railway Line
- Perrywood Sudbury
- Perrywood Tiptree
- Planters Bretby
- Pughs Radyr
- Pughs Wenvoe
- Roxton BGC
- Snowdonia Nurseries
- Summerhill Garden Centre
- Trioscape Garden Centre
- Trowell Garden centre
- Wolseley Bridge BGC
As of Monday night, 16th December 2024 here's a list of the centres we've received on-line votes for so far:
3 Shires Blue Diamond, Albrighton BGC, Allbrighton BGC, Alton Garden Centre , Arcadia BGC, Azure Garden Centre , Barton Grange, Bents, Birchencliffe BGC, Birkacre Garden Centre, Bold Heath BGC, Bolton BGC, Boston Dobbies , Bosworths Burton Latimer, Bosworths Elton , Bournville BGC, Bow Garden & Aquatic Centre, Braintree BGC, Bressingham BGC, Bridgenorth BGC, Bridgnorth BGC, Brigg BGC, Brimsmore Garden Centre, Brockworth BGC, Bromsgrove BGC, Burford House BGC, California Lodge Garden Centre, Carmarthen BGC, Carr Gate BGC, Chacewater Garden Centre, Chapel BGC, Charlbury BGC, Charlecote BGC, Chenies Blue Diamond , Chilton BGC, Chipperfield BGC, Codsall & Wergs Garden Centre, Coventry BGC, Crawley BGC, Dundonald Nursery , East Durham BGC, Ellerker Lodge Garden Centre, Fakenham Garden Centre, Garden King, Goulds Garden Centre, Harrogate BGC, Hilliers Syon, Hillmount Ards , Hillmount Bangor, Hillmount Belfast, Hillmount Cheshire, Hillside Garden Centre, Hitchin BGC, Hockley Market Garden Centre, Holt Garden Centre, Horncastle BGC, Hornsea BGC, Irton BGC, Jacksdale Garden Centre, Keydell Garden Centre, Lanchester Garden Centre , Langlands BGC, Leeds BGC, Lewes BGC, Leyland BGC, Louth BGC, Lytham St Annes BGC, Mackenzie & Cruickshank, Meadowcroft, Mirfield BGC, Munro’s Nurseries, Newquay Garden Centre, Newton Regis BGC, Notcutts Oxford, Notcutts Peterborough, Old Railway Line, Ongar BGC, Osterley BGC, Paddock Wood BGC, Peacock Plant Nursery, Perrywood Sudbury, Perrywood Tiptree, Planters Bretby, Planters Brookfields, Planters Tamworrh, Playhatch BGC, Pughs Radyr, Pughs Wenvoe, Pulborough BGC, Pyle Garden Centre, Raglan Garden Centre, Ramsgate BGC, Roxton BGC, Ruxley Manor, Sanders Blue Diamond , Sheffield BGC, Shipley BGC, Shipley Park BGC, Simpsons, Snowdonia Nurseries, Southwood Garden Centre, Spadework Charity Garden Centre, Sprowston BGC, Squires Hersham, Stanway BGC, Stevenage BGC, Stratford upon Avon Dobbies, Studley BGC, Summerhill Garden Centre, Tansley Barn BGC, Tarporley BGC, Thatcham BGC, The Woodworks Garden Centre, Thurrock Garden Centre, Tingley Garden Centre, Townley BGC, Tring BGC, Trioscape Garden Centre, Trowell Garden Centre, Upminster BGC, White Elm Garden Centre, Wimborne BGC, Winnersh BGC, Wisely RHS Garden Centre , Wolseley Bridge BGC, Woodborough Green BGC, Woodthorpe BGC
There is still time to join in all you have to do is download the poster and voting forms artwork using this dropbox link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/t5s9zttkagu53jn06c90j/AAxUet5HFIAZOSLQxBzztdY?rlkey=c20kg3edpvc9g99dc7jrk3jrp&dl=0
Or download by clicking on the images below
  
Your customers can then vote on-line by scanning the QR code on the posters or by completing a voting slip and posting it in a voting box in-store that you will collect and send to the GTN Offices as the voting closes on Sunday 22nd December 2024.
Direct Voting link: https://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/GTN/5acq9vfvy60
Of course you can also include the voting link and QR Code in your social media and website.
As last year we will have regional winners in the customer vote as well as an overall customer voting winner. Last year’s overall winner was the team at Busy Bee on the Isle of Wight.
It’s as simple as that. Voting is open now and will remain open until 4:00pm on December 22nd.
If you are collecting votes in-store, please can you e-mail trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk tso that we can warn the postman of a huge influx of post over the coming weeks.
Voting is free, but we are partnering with The Greenfingers Charity so that voters can, if they wish, make a Christmas donation to help build more magical gardens in Children's Hospices across the country.
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As well as the kudos and fame from winning a Greatest Christmas award, our Gold winners in each of the judged categories will win prizes including stock, services or hotel accommodation from our Greatest Awards sponsors:
- The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team – Sponsored by Woodlodge
- The Greatest Outdoor Plant and Christmas Tree Team - Sponsored by Doff Portland
- The Greatest Gardening as a Christmas Gift Sales Team - Sponsored by Fandango Fire Tools
- The Greatest Christmas Gifts Team – Sponsored by Museums and Galleries
- The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Promotions Team -Sponsored by Glee
- The Greatest Christmas BBQ and Outdoor Leisure Team – The SOLEX Sizzle - Sponsored by SOLEX
- The Greatest Festive RetailFood Team – Sponsored by Pleydell Smithyman
- The Greatest Christmas Wild Bird Care & Pet Team - Sponsored by Marriages
- The Greatest Garden Centre Grotto Team - Sponsored by Smart Garden Products – Three Kings
- The Greatest Group Small Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Woodmansterne
- The Greatest Group Large Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Tildenet
- The Greatest Small Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Garden Radio
- The Greatest Mid-Sized Garden Centre Christmas Team – Sponsored by Kaemingk
- The Greatest Large Garden Centre Christmas Team – Sponsored by MorePeople
- The Greatest Giant Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Kaemingk
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Award-winning garden centre boss Charlie Groves has been making TV and national newspaper headlines after turning detective and tracking down a woman shoplifter who stole toys from his store.
Charlie, who runs Groves Nurseries and Garden Centre in Bridport, Dorset, watched CCTV recordings of a woman concealing Jellycat toys in a pram carrying her child, before leaving the store without paying and getting into her car.
He pieced together the woman’s identity by scouring resale websites, deciphering her car's personalised number plate, and eventually finding her Facebook profile.
Following his discovery, Charlie’s detective exploits have been covered by BBC News, Radio 4, Daily Telegraph, The Independent and Daily Mail.
Charlie took up the story for GTN Xtra: “We spotted the large Jellycat Hedgehog was missing from our display, checked our sales records and saw that it hadn’t gone through the tills. We checked the CCTV and saw this lady with the pushchair who not only took the hedgehog but at least eight other items at the same time. We were able to follow her around the shop and track her back to her car which had a private numberplate which more or less spelled out her name.
“That evening we had a look through various reselling sites and found the hedgehog for sale on Vinted on an account belonging to the husband of the lady on the CCTV. You could see in her Facebook profile that matched the private numberplate on the car she was driving. You could also tell by her photos on Facebook that it was more or less the same person.
“At the same time I shared the video on various garden centre Whatsapp groups and Chris the TPO from Tates of Sussex gave me a call. He said he had run the footage through facial recognition software which cross referenced with some footage from Blue Diamond at Newbury. And he was able to confirm to me that she was known to Blue Diamond for doing the same thing and that it was indeed the same person.
“I also filed all the evidence with the police. This was a slow and frustrating process because you just send things off and never really hear anything back – still haven’t really, although I did get a short email on the day the BBC contacted them!
“I received a call from Chris at Tates saying that he was working with the BBC on an article about shoplifting and they were interested in talking to me about it. They came down and filmed last week, and it was broadcast on Thursday.
“The response has been amazing with lots of messages of support through our social media and it is great to be able to raise the profile of the problem that not only affects garden centres but also the wider retail community. I think it also demonstrates the power of what can be done with something as simple as sharing information with other garden centres.
“So far we have appeared on BBC News, Radio 4, Daily Telegraph, The Independent and the Daily Mail.”
Dorset Police told the BBC it has reviewed the CCTV footage and further enquiries were ongoing, including liaising with neighbouring forces. Charlie has since been updated by the police who say the woman has now been arrested.
Coverage of 'Detective Charlie in the news' can be viewed on the Groves' website https://www.grovesnurseries.co.uk/news/577/detective-charlie-in-the-news
CCTV coverage can be viewed on the BBC story https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c7vez9jg809o
As you can see from our photo taken at Groves this week, they have now put all the Jellycats up on a Christmas tree to try to deter thefts.
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Zero In Plant Remedy is the new range for healthier houseplants. Keeping customers and their houseplants happy and healthy!
It’s well established that houseplants have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing several ways. Houseplants are proven to reduce stress levels and improve mood. They make workspaces more conducive and increase productivity and have even been shown to increase pain tolerance in hospital settings. In the home they provide a connection with nature, add to décor and ambience and reward our caring instincts.
And the market for houseplants is growing. Sales have doubled since 2019 and almost half of all people purchased a houseplant in 2023.
But new and younger owners are struggling with the care of their new houseplants. This was the driver for the development of a new Zero In Plant Remedy range of plant care products that will help even the least experienced owners care for and nurture their plants. The range includes bug traps, gnat barriers, tonics, misters and leaf shine solutions.
Edwin Allingham said “I have first-hand experience of young people in my own family struggling to care for their houseplants. And I’ve seen for myself the positive impact on wellbeing of having healthy plants in the living and working environment. We identified a clear need for a collection of easy-to-use care products that will mean everyone can successfully care for their plants – and boost their mood in the process!”
Zero In Plant Remedy range of fourteen products is available on a Development Deal which includes a compact display unit and guarantees participating retailers a 60% gross margin.
Contact details
STV International Ltd Forge House, Little Cressingham, Thetford, Norfolk, IP25 6ND, GB
Phone 01953 881580
Email info@stvuk.co.uk
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Corby + Fellas has partnered with Scott’s of Southend, a stand-out nursery and garden centre located in Rochford, Essex.
Formerly operating as Reads of Sutton Ltd, the business was acquired by its current owner, farming entrepreneur Scott Bird, in April 2018. Under Scott’s leadership, the centre has flourished, significantly expanding its range of products and launching a new outdoor living department in 2024, with more exciting improvements to come for 2025.
With the addition of a restaurant in May 2021, Scott’s of Southend has solidified its reputation as Southend’s premier destination for gardening enthusiasts and the local community alike.
Kelly Johnson, Head of Marketing for Scott’s, said: “Partnering with Corby + Fellas has been an integral part of our growth plans and has taken us to a new level, allowing us to launch an exciting new customer loyalty app being among the many advantages.”
Pictured is Lee, waiter at Scotts of Southend, C+F’s Matt Chrisostomou and Dario, Scott’s Restaurant Manager.
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Bulrush helps growers achieve success in 2025
GTN Xtra Promotion
With enormous investments underway aimed at maximising efficiency, increasing capacity, and ensuring reliable supply for customers, leading substrate producer Bulrush Horticulture is laying the groundwork for another successful season ahead, making it the number-one choice for growers heading into 2025...
With enormous investments underway aimed at maximising efficiency, increasing capacity, and ensuring reliable supply for customers, leading substrate producer Bulrush Horticulture is laying the groundwork for another successful season ahead, making it the number-one choice for growers heading into 2025.
Bulrush has been busy behind the scenes throughout 2024, ploughing revenue back into the business to the benefit of its customers. Well-placed to meet the continued surge in demand for peat-free products, Bulrush has focused on increasing capacity and securing a reliable supply of quality materials, including its unique Forest Gold fibre.
Based on current projections, Bulrush boasts a robust six-to-twelve-month supply of coir. Meanwhile, other projects that are close to completion will further shore-up the supply of other vital components in Bulrush’s peat-free substrates, meaning that growers don’t need to worry about spikes in demand disrupting supply.
The latest round of investments form part of Bulrush’s ongoing growth strategy and unwavering commitment to growers, as customers benefit from next-level service, an enhanced workforce, state-of-the-art equipment across production and packing lines, exceptional products and competitive prices.
Whilst Bulrush operates at scale with the capacity to meet demand from a vast number of growers across the country, the company strives to maintain a personable touch, collaborating closely with its customers and offering flexibility to help growers and nurseries find the best solutions for their business.
Alex Julien, Sales Director at Bulrush says: “We pride ourselves on providing customers with a secure supply of exceptional products; something that has served us well in the market and made Bulrush a preferred partner for many professional growers and nurseries. It is for that reason that we are significantly investing back into the business to ensure we can continue to deliver the outstanding service we have become known for and to help facilitate mutual growth in the sector for season 2025 and beyond.”
He continues: “Of course, greater efficiency across our business offers huge benefits to the growers we deal with but the value of collaboration is also not to be underestimated, which is why we treat each customer on an individual basis and work closely and effectively to help them achieve success. This is something we feel passionate about and look forward to supporting even more professional growers and meeting their needs, as we head into the next season.”
With more than four decades of experience under its belt, Bulrush has earned its strong reputation in the industry, where its range of standard and custom substrates regularly outperform competitor products in trials. Bulrush is the only substrate manufacturer in the UK to use a unique batch mixing system and was the first in the world to be awarded the ISO 9001 quality management standard (BS EN ISO 9001:2015), reflecting the extremely high standards of quality assurance Bulrush products adhere to.
Find out more
Now is the time to plan order schedules for all substrates. Connect with Bulrush today to learn more about our innovative product portfolio and discover how we can support your journey next season and beyond. To find out more, contact your local area manager, call 028 7938 6555 or please visit www.bulrush.co.uk
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Spring Fair set to celebrate anniversary with bigger event
GTN Xtra Promotion
As the UK's largest retail trade event, Spring Fair brings together home, gift and fashion retailers and suppliers of all sizes. As the UK's most trusted retail marketplace, its legacy of expertise attracts the largest buyers from across the industry – and this year's anniversary event on 2nd-5th February 2025 at NEC Birmingham, is set to be even bigger!
As the UK's largest retail trade event, Spring Fair brings together home, gift and fashion retailers and suppliers of all sizes. As the UK's most trusted retail marketplace, its legacy of expertise attracts the largest buyers from across the industry – and this year's anniversary event on 2nd-5th February 2025 at NEC Birmingham, is set to be even bigger!
Over 1,200 quality exhibitors in 12 unmissable buying destinations dedicated to Home, Gift, Fashion and Everyday, over 1 million products with 38% available exclusively at Spring Fair, over 400 new and hundreds of international brands, means there’s endless opportunities to find your next best-sellers and transform your product range across a diverse and inspirational range of categories.
An essential meeting place for retail, Spring Fair's seven decades of expertise offers an entire community of retailers a place for unmatched innovation and inspiration. Spring Fair 2025 promises an immersive experience packed with events and features designed to inspire buyers and exhibitors alike. A snapshot of what’s on at the show has been revealed including five special product pavilions – the New Business Pavilions, #SBS Village, GCA Debut Pavilion, as well as the Gift Of The Year Showcase; exciting collaborations with partners including the Giftware Association, the Greeting Card Association, and Llewellyn-Bowen Design; and 4 days of free insights, inspiration and catwalk shows across three content stages including the new Licensing Lab in partnership with Fabacus. Visitors will also discover activations galore across the show floor including happy hours and ambience clinics, sampling sessions, giant birthday cards, awards ceremonies, and a time capsule experience taking us back in time to key events, people and products in the show’s history.
The show also has a new aroma. Spring Fair’s exclusive signature fragrance, Heritage 75, created to commemorate the show’s 75th anniversary will float through the aisles. The scent, crafted in collaboration with fragrance experts Quintessence Fragrances and home fragrance experts Sebnini, will bring a multisensory dimension to the event.
Register to attend at www.springfair.com
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WHM Pet Group has contributed its considerable nutrition expertise to an important new European guide on feeding pet rabbits.
The 2024 Nutritional Guidelines for Feeding Pet Rabbits has been produced by FEDIAF, the voice of the European Pet Food Industry, with contributions from Penny Ormsby, Technical Business Development Manager at WHM Pet Group.
FEDIAF is the spokesperson for approximately 375 companies, across 18 countries, largely with the European Union, but also Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. One of its main objectives is to maintain the wellbeing of pets through the provision of safe, well balanced and nutritionally sound pet food by its member companies.
The new guidelines provide the latest practical advice and scientifically backed recommendations for the optimal health and wellbeing of pet rabbits, considering both nutritionally ‘complete’ and ‘complementary’ diets, designed to be fed alongside forage and fresh foodstuffs.
Penny Ormsby was one of a team of experts who contributed to the Nutritional Guidelines for Feeding Pet Rabbits. The guidelines were originally drafted on behalf of FEDIAF by UK Pet Food and finalised with guidance from external experts within FEDIAF. The 2024 revised version was initiated by FEDIAF and with support from UK Pet Food has been updated but guest contributors and reviewed by external experts.
“As an active member of UK Pet Food we are delighted to have contributed to the guidelines to advance the overall health and wellbeing of Rabbits,” said Sam Marriage, Managing Director of WHM Pet Group. “The objectives of the Guidelines are a true reflection of what we aim to achieve across our portfolio of feeds: a comprehensive, high-quality feed range that’s healthy, nutritious and delicious.”
The 2024 Nutritional Guidelines for Feeding Pet Rabbits is now available at www.fediaf.org.
WHM Pet Group supplies retailers and farmers with premium quality wild bird, indoor bird, small animal, racing pigeon, pig, poultry and ruminant feeds.
For further information visit: https://www.marriages.co.uk/
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Gardening spend set to increase in 2025
A gardening survey of 1,196 participants by Thompson & Morgan has revealed that consumer spending on gardening is set to rise in 2025 reflecting a continued interest in gardening and outdoor spaces.
Thompson & Morgan asked UK gardeners about their plans for 2025, and the results may surprise you.
A gardening survey of 1,196 participants has revealed that consumer spending on gardening is set to rise in 2025 reflecting a continued interest in gardening and outdoor spaces.
The survey conducted by T&M found that 87% of respondents plan to spend the same or more on their gardens in 2025 compared to 2024. Statistics show that 70% of people are not cutting back in this essential area despite the cost-of-living crisis, with 18% saying they are going to spend even more.
News of consumers’ planned spending increase for 2025 will be music to the ears of UK garden retailers as we come to the end of a year that has been challenging for many.
Money spent on the garden is an investment, offering a space outdoors to relax and connect with nature, plus a space to spend time with pets, friends and family.
When asked about the previous 12 months, 68% of survey respondents said they’d spent up to £500 on their gardens in 2024. A further 19% spent £500 to £1,000 and an enthusiastic 13% spent over £1,000 perfecting their plots.
Commenting on the survey findings, David Phillips, T&M's B2C Sales Director, said:
“It’s clear from the results of our survey that customers see spending on their garden spaces as not only great value for money, but something worth investing more time, money and effort into. We know how much joy a garden can bring and its effects on mental health and well-being. While the cost-of-living crisis refuses to go away, customers see real value in this as a household expense.”
The growing trend of increased spending on gardens may be attributed to a combination of factors – particularly the benefits to mental health and well-being and a focus on creating wildlife-friendly spaces. It also shines a spotlight on a consumer spending shift towards sustainability, health and environmental responsibility.
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New data from the Horticultural Trades Association further sets out the risks posed to the environmental horticulture sector by the Autumn Budget.
As a sector of mostly small and medium-sized (SME) businesses, many of which are family-owned, the challenge is acute due to the triple whammy of measures announced in the Budget concerning changes to inheritance tax (IHT), national insurance contributions (NIC), and the National Living Wage (NLW).
Two recent HTA member surveys, the Q3 2024 Business Barometer and the November 2024 Member Consultation Survey, provide a snapshot of the industry's current state:
- A 21% reduction in net profit is forecast for 2025 due to rising NIC and NLW costs, equating to a £134 million collective hit on HTA members.
- Two-thirds of businesses plan to raise prices, while many will postpone or reduce capital investments and consider recruitment freezes.
- Sales and net profits were already 7% behind forecast before the Budget, with retailers and landscapers facing additional pressures from adverse weather and rising costs.
To put these numbers in context, retailers have given some examples of the real impact on HTA member businesses:
“When I first calculated the impact of the NI and minimum wage changes in the budget, I thought I had the decimal point in the wrong place. The scale of impact on profit is colossal. The impact of the National Insurance rises and the lowering of the threshold along with the minimum wage increase will have a huge impact on our business, especially with the number of part-time team members now impacted by the threshold change. It’s the equivalent effect of us being forced to close for snow for the whole of December, our busiest and most profitable month, with all the costs still incurred but none of the sales.”
“To get back to even ordinary levels of profit would mean cutting staff numbers, or cutting costs by 20%, or increasing margin by 6%, all of which are seismic levels of change.”
From April 2026, inheritance tax (IHT) relief for business and agricultural assets will be capped at £1 million for an individual. For any amount exceeding this threshold, a reduced IHT rate of 20% will apply instead of the standard 40% rate. It is hoped that the tax can be paid in interest-free instalments over 10 years to alleviate the immediate financial strain. However, family-owned garden centres and commercial growers are uniquely vulnerable to these changes, as much of their asset value lies in land and property. This situation places them at a disproportionately severe disadvantage compared to other sectors. HTA members have voiced concerns about the challenges of transferring businesses to the next generation, with some contemplating the sale of assets or even the entire business—actions that could jeopardise jobs and livelihoods.
"Having to sell part of the land to pay the tax and make the business unprofitable is short-sighted, to say the least."
“It is getting too much. If you make a profit and are then taxed too much on it, why bother with the stress of running the business? You might as well sell up.”
“The change to Business Property Relief is hugely worrying for the family and the business. The family have always ploughed profit back in to grow the business and have not taken big salaries or dividends. The family simply do not have the personal funds to meet IHT on the shares. So, will shares have to be sold? Could the business buy back shares, and how might the business afford to do this? Banks may not wish to lend for that purpose. Will other sources of finance be required, or will business assets have to be sold? Private equity is a very unattractive option as it is short-term and exit-driven. We look to the long-term success of the business for the benefit of our teams and the local community. This new landscape directly impacts the decision-making of the business and whether and how it invests in growing for the future. The priority now must be to protect the business in the face of this big IHT (and NI) challenge.”
To assist members in navigating these challenges, the HTA hosted an Autumn Budget Webinar on December 2, 2024. Industry experts from Johnston Carmichael and Turner Morum provided guidance on adapting to the fiscal changes as well as signposting available reliefs.
The HTA continues to advocate on behalf of its members, engaging with policymakers to highlight sector challenges. Recent actions include a joint letter with the British Retail Consortium and ongoing discussions with government officials.
HTA members can access more information and resources via HTA Policy Member Briefingsor contact policy@hta.org.uk.
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Kate Ebbens has smashed through 300 days and run over 1,300km in her mammoth 366 Daily Run for Greenfingers.
Visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/kate-ebbens-1701443565987
You can read Kate’s December update below:
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Hi everyone, Kimberley Hornby George here, and I am so close to completing my sponsors roster for this year’s Most Jumperful Challenge! For those who don’t know, I’ve committed to wearing 25 of the most festive (and cringe-worthy) Christmas jumpers throughout December.
When I say festive, I mean bells, lights, tinsel, and full-on itchiness. Some are adorable, most are outrageously over-the-top, and a fair few should probably be banned outright (yes, they’re that bad). But why am I doing this? For a cause very close to my heart: to raise funds for the amazing Greenfingers Charity.
Greenfingers creates beautiful, therapeutic gardens for children and families who spend time in hospices. These gardens offer a peaceful and healing space for kids to play, families to bond and remember, and hospice staff to recharge. As gardeners I’m sure we can all appreciate the power of these green spaces. Greenfingers gardens bring that power to those who need it most, and I’m determined to do my part in supporting this vital work.
So, where do you come in?
I have seven sponsorship slots left to fill, and I am desperate to get there. It’s £100 per slot, which might feel like a lot, but think of it as a Christmas gift to a truly wonderful cause - it’s the season of giving, after all!
Let me be clear: I will fill these slots, seriously, I’ll do whatever it takes! Whether it’s an extra jumper, a silly challenge, or any other idea you can throw my way, I’m open to all suggestions. But I can’t do this alone - I need your help to cross the finish line.
Please don’t let me fail—this really does matter to me. Every penny raised will go towards creating life-changing spaces for children and their families. So, whether you’re a friend, colleague, or just someone who loves the idea of me embarrassing myself in public every day, please consider sponsoring me. Together, we can make this festive season truly magical for the children and families supported by Greenfingers.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Kimberley
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Spring Fair launches £1,000 competition
Spring Fair has announced the launch of a competition to win £1,000 to spend at the February 2025 show. To be in with a chance to win, simply register for the show before 6 January 2025...
Last year’s winner Mary Dillon spent her prize with Paradiso Couture.
Spring Fair has announced the launch of a competition to win £1,000 to spend at the February 2025 show. To be in with a chance to win, simply register for the show before 6 January 2025.
The 75th anniversary show, taking place from 2-5 February 2025 at the NEC Birmingham, promises to be one to remember with over 1,200 exhibitors across 12 unmissable buying destinations dedicated to Home, Gift, Fashion, and Everyday categories. Buyers will discover more than 1 million inspirational and innovative products, over 400 new brands and many exclusive only to Spring Fair, and more than 100 international brands.
To help you get your hands on must-have products from incredible brands to restock your store in the New Year, Spring Fair is giving one lucky winner £1000 to spend with an exhibitor at the show.
Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director, Spring Fair says, “Spring Fair is home to millions of bestsellers. As we head towards the New Year, don’t miss your chance to spend £1000 on new stock and exciting product ranges at the UK’s largest retail show and elevate your buying experience!”
Last year’s winner, Mary Dillon from All Occasions Boutique in Portumna, Ireland said, “I spent my prize with Paradiso Couture a company I have been working with for a while now. I always find something new. I also found a new accessories company Tempest, revisited some previous wholesalers. Spring Fair is a good place to network and speak to others.”
To register to win at https://www.springfair.com/visitor-registration.
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Heaven Sends, one of the UK’s leading Home & Gift suppliers, are exhibiting at two of the industry’s biggest Trade Shows – Harrogate Christmas & Gift and Spring Fair.
Heaven Sends will be showcasing thousands of new products for 2025 across all seasons, including an outstanding collection of NEW Christmas 2025.
Although renowned for their inspirational Christmas offerings, Heaven Sends also have an abundance of unique Garden, Spring & Summer lines readily available for delivery after the shows.
Explore their full range of new & bestselling lines that will add elegance and style to your seasonal displays & an incredible offering of unique lines for your customers.
For the first time since 2019, Heaven Sends will be showcasing their Spring & Summer range at the NEC Spring Fair, doubling the size of their stand at the event.
Heaven Sends will be attending both shows with their expert team of “Angels”, on hand to to guide you through the range, and assist you on your journey with industry, product and style advice. Don’t miss out on the chance to be among the first to see their new ranges and make your selections for 2025 and beyond. As always, the team will be running some exclusive promotions at the show, so book your appointment today.
Where can you find them?
Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair
12-15 January 2025
HALL C, STAND C37
Harrogate Convention Centre
King’s Road
Harrogate
HG1 5LA
NEC Spring Fair
2-5 February 2025
HALL 5, STAND 5A31
National Exhibition Centre
Perimeter Road
Birmingham
B40 1NT
Contact: sales@heavensends.com
Or by telephone: 0121 351 7457
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Spring Fair partners with Association for Cultural Enterprises
Spring Fair has announced a new partnership with the Association for Cultural Enterprises. The collaboration reflects Spring Fair’s commitment to supporting the evolving needs of cultural, heritage, and destination buyers - key players in the retail industry who balance the art of storytelling with the demand for innovation and sustainability...
Spring Fair has announced a new partnership with the Association for Cultural Enterprises. The collaboration reflects Spring Fair’s commitment to supporting the evolving needs of cultural, heritage, and destination buyers - key players in the retail industry who balance the art of storytelling with the demand for innovation and sustainability.
As part of this exciting partnership, Spring Fair will host a dedicated Cultural Enterprise Day on Tuesday, 4th February 2025, bringing together 45 new cultural enterprise organisations to the show and offering tailored resources to enhance their sourcing experience.
Celebrating Cultural Enterprises at Spring Fair
Cultural enterprises, including museums, galleries, and heritage sites, are discerning buyers seeking unique products that resonate with their audiences while meeting the highest standards of quality and sustainability. This partnership aims to bridge the gap between cultural buyers and suppliers, enabling these organisations to discover exceptional products that align with their values.
During the Cultural Enterprise Day, buyers will enjoy a bespoke programme of activities, including:
- Curated Guided Tours: Explore exhibitors that offer products tailored to cultural retail needs, including greetings, gifts, and homeware.
- Exclusive Resources: Complimentary goody bags, curated supplier lists provided by the Association, and access to tailored consultancy sessions in the Buyer’s Lounge.
- Immersive Sessions: From sampling artisanal chocolates and sloe gin to fragrance masterclasses, visitors can engage in hands-on experiences that inspire their buying journey.
- Networking Opportunities: The day will conclude with a networking session offering buyers the chance to connect with peers, suppliers, and industry leaders.
A Partnership with Purpose
Laura Rae, Head of Development says, “Cultural enterprises are unique in their approach to retail, combining a deep appreciation for heritage and storytelling with the demand for innovation. This partnership with Cultural Enterprises underscores our commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for buyers and suppliers to connect and thrive.”
 Gordon Morrison, CEO of Association for Cultural Enterprises, echoes these sentiments; “The Association for Cultural Enterprises is thrilled to be supporting Spring Fair 2025. This collaboration at this stellar event offers a fantastic platform to shine a spotlight on retail in the cultural sector, an area that continues to thrive despite a challenging overall economic environment. Many of our members and suppliers are innovating and thriving in this field and we are delighted to be able to showcase and celebrate this at this major event.”
For more information about Spring Fair visit www.springfair.com. To register to attend visit https://www.springfair.com/visitor-registration.
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Castle Gardens wins national Christmas competition
Castle Gardens in Sherborne, Dorset has won the GCA's annual national Christmas Competition in the Garden Centre category. Taking first prize for the 12th time, Castle Gardens’ Christmas displays have once again scored higher than any other garden centre in the entire country...
Castle Gardens in Sherborne, Dorset has won the GCA's annual national Christmas Competition in the Garden Centre category. Taking first prize for the 12th time, Castle Gardens’ Christmas displays have once again scored higher than any other garden centre in the entire country.
Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil took second place and Poundbury Gardens near Dorchester came third in the Local Garden Centre Category.
General ambience, creativity, range, flow and tidiness were among the areas scored during the judging process, which took place in November. Curated by The Gardens Group director, Louise Burks, the magical winter wonderlands continue to feature more eco-friendly initiatives and products. Throughout the planet friendly displays, repurposed and recycled materials have been used to build walkways, while glass baubles, twinkly LED lights, recycled candles and plastic free toys were used to create scenes from the Nutcracker, Star Wars and Fairytales.
Louise Burks, director of The Gardens Group, commented: “This is another fantastic achievement for the whole team, who have pulled together to create something truly magical, all the while striving to be bigger, better and more eco-friendly than the year before. To win the top prize again is so rewarding for us all, but to take second and third place in the local garden centre categories shows the hard work, dedication, consistency and vision at each of our garden centres. We’re always doing our utmost to enhance the experience, while helping our customers to reduce the environmental impact of their celebrations, so to have this recognised by our industry means a great deal to us.”
The Gardens Group’s Christmas displays are open to the public seven days a week until Christmas Eve, at Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil, Castle Gardens in Sherborne and Poundbury Gardens near Dorchester.
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Old Railway Line celebrates Christmas success
The Old Railway Line Garden Centre has been recognised as the third best Christmas display in the UK. Judged in the Garden Centre category of the Garden Centre Association’s annual display competition, this prestigious award highlights the garden centre's outstanding festive displays, further cementing its reputation as a destination for Christmas inspiration...
The Old Railway Line Garden Centre has been recognised as the third best Christmas display in the UK. Judged in the Garden Centre category of the Garden Centre Association’s annual display competition, this prestigious award highlights the garden centre's outstanding festive displays, further cementing its reputation as a destination for Christmas inspiration.
Retail and Events Manager, Matt Lewis, commented: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this recognition for our Christmas displays. A great deal of time and effort goes into creating these magical experiences, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see our customers enjoying them.”
The Old Railway Line's Christmas displays have become a local tradition, with thousands of visitors flocking to the garden centre each year to experience the festive magic. The displays, which include a beautifully curated range of seasonal products, are free to explore, making it a perfect destination for families and Christmas shoppers alike.
Peter Burks, CEO of the Garden Centre Association (GCA), praised the centre's exceptional display: “All the entrants were judged on general ambience, creativity, stock range, flow and tidiness. Customer service was also taken into consideration. Everyone who entered created some fabulous displays this year and really showed some flair. Those I saw on my travels were very impressive and had a real ‘wow factor’.”
The Old Railway Line Garden Centre continues to be a must-visit destination this Christmas, with its award-winning displays offering inspiration and festive cheer. The garden centre is open daily, and visitors are invited to explore the stunning Christmas displays in person.
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Source Fashion unveils keynote speaker line-up
Source Fashion, Europe’s leading responsible sourcing show, has announced an inspiring line-up of keynote speakers for its upcoming event, running from 18th to 20th February 2025 at Olympia London.
Source Fashion, Europe’s leading responsible sourcing show, has announced an inspiring line-up of keynote speakers for its upcoming event, running from 18th to 20th February 2025 at Olympia London. On Wednesday 19th February, a full day of thought-provoking sessions will be headlined by industry visionaries including All Saints Founder Stuart Trevor, award-winning social entrepreneur Safia Minney MBE, and Andrew Xeni, Founder of Nobody’s Child.
The sessions will explore critical themes shaping the future of fashion, from sustainability to circularity and transparency, aiming to equip visitors with actionable insights to transform their brands and business practices.
Session Highlights:
- The Urgency of Transparency
- Speaker: Andrew Xeni, Founder, Nobody’s Child, Fabacus and Soreto
- Time: 11:00 AM
- Synopsis: As transparency becomes the cornerstone of sustainability, Andrew Xeni will discuss how brands can lead the charge in accountability and ethical operations. From unveiling supply chain practices to empowering consumers, this session highlights the role of transparency in building trust and driving meaningful change in the fashion industry.
- A Clothing Company That Doesn’t Produce Clothes
- Speaker: Stuart Trevor, Founder, All Saints & Stuart Trevor
- Time: 1:30 PM
- Synopsis: In a groundbreaking fireside chat, Stuart Trevor will showcase how his company is pioneering circularity by transforming pre-owned clothes into desirable fashion pieces. By rethinking the traditional industry model, Trevor will illustrate the potential of upcycling to combat waste and redefine sustainable style.
- Ecosystem Thinking in Fashion: Redesigning for Regeneration
- Speaker: Safia Minney MBE
- Time: 2:10 PM
- Synopsis: In a dynamic panel discussion, Safia Minney will explore strategies to adopt circular and regenerative models, scale these practices, and foster collaborative supply chain solutions. Featuring contributions from experts across industries, this session is set to empower visitors with practical tools for transformative change.
The keynote sessions will be complemented by speakers from industry-leading organisations such as John Lewis, Vivo Footwear, Pepsi Co, Kingfisher, and environmental NGO WRAP. The full programme will be revealed in the coming weeks.
Join the Conversation
Source Fashion 2025 invites fashion professionals, sustainability advocates, and industry leaders to connect, learn, and lead the transformation of the fashion industry.
As Europe’s leading responsible sourcing show, Source Fashion brings together a global community of brands, suppliers, and thought leaders to shape the future of ethical and sustainable fashion. Through cutting-edge events, expert-led sessions, and innovative showcases, Source Fashion champions transparency, circularity, and collaboration in the industry.
For registration and updates, visit sourcefashion.com.
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 The Garden Centre Association has announced that leading economist Roger Martin-Fagg will be speaking at its 58th annual conference at De Vere Wokefield Estate Reading this January.
Roger, who specialises in making economics accessible for everyone, will be presenting to GCA members on Tuesday, January 28 to help delegates create their strategies with his expertise.
Peter Burks, GCA CEO, said: “It’s wonderful to announce Roger as a returning speaker to our annual conference in Reading. He’s back by popular demand! He spoke at our conferences in 2014, 2018 and 2023 and it’s wonderful that he’s available to be with us once again.
“He specialises in making economics accessible for non-economists, so is an ideal contributor to the topical discussions currently being had in garden centres nationwide and is an inspiring speaker for our members’ teams to hear.
“Roger is a Behavioural Economist. He began his career in the New Zealand Treasury, returned to the UK and worked in manpower planning mostly for BA. Switched careers to teach postgraduates at Thames Valley University, then joined Henley Management College as Client Director working with blue chip corporates for 23 years.
“He is now independent and focuses mostly on SMEs and the challenges they face. He has a reputation for broadly accurate forecasts – he predicted the great crash and post Covid inflation – and for an economist has a keen sense of humour, which is increasingly necessary these days!”
Economist Roger Martin-Fagg will be speaking to attendees on Tuesday, January 28 at the 2025 GCA conference and places can still be booked for the conference via Garden Centre Association Tickets, Bundles - Buy Online.
There is also a dedicated email for any queries members, and those wishing to book for the event, may have: conference@gca.org.uk.
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Inter-Generational Diversity Expert at GCA conference
The Garden Centre Association has revealed that Inter-Generational Diversity Expert Henry Rose Lee will be speaking at its annual conference at De Vere Wokefield Estate Reading this January (January 26 until 29, 2025)...
 The Garden Centre Association has revealed that Inter-Generational Diversity Expert Henry Rose Lee will be speaking at its annual conference at De Vere Wokefield Estate Reading this January (January 26 until 29, 2025).
Henry will be presenting to GCA members on Monday, January 27 on the topic of ‘Generational Diversity & Inclusion – Working with Future Generations’.
GCA Chairman Will Blake says: “Henry is one of a very few inter-generational diversity experts helping organisations to improve the contribution and profitable performance of the youngest talent in the workplace today.
“The author of three books on maximising today’s young talent – Generation Z and Millennials – Henry busts myths and gives practical hacks for attracting, recruiting, engaging and retaining your youngest employees.
“Any garden centre today may have up to five generations on the payroll: from The Silent Generation to Baby Boomers and from Generation X to Millennials and Gen Z. Henry delivers keynotes to ensure diversity and inclusion across all employee age-groups. Her work enhances communications, increases collaboration and inspires employees of all ages to give their best.”
Henry’s expertise comes from 15 years working in business development and sales, where performance and results were essential. This was followed by 17 years as a Human Resource qualified consultant and Master Coach, researching and developing diagnostic tools on human motivation and generational attitudes and behaviours at work.
This included a two-year stint at Pinewood Studios developing her talents as a voice over artist, and as a communications and learning specialist for business TV and online learning.
Will adds: “Henry’s global clients, from technology to housing, pharma to finance and manufacturing to retail, describe her entertaining yet pragmatic style as the perfect balance of information and inspiration. Her outcomes provide immediately usable tools and techniques for getting the best out of the most diverse talent pool we have ever seen as an industry. Henry’s presentation is not to be missed!”
Henry Rose Lee will be speaking to attendees on Monday, January 27. Places can still be booked by GCA members for the 2025 GCA conference via Garden Centre Association Tickets, Bundles - Buy Online.
There is also a dedicated email for any queries members, and those wishing to book for the event, may have: conference@gca.org.uk.
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Chiang Rai, Thailand, will host AIPH Spring Meeting
The 2025 AIPH Spring Meeting will be held in Chiang Rai in the north of Thailand from 9-13 February 2025. The meeting will welcome horticultural professionals from the around the world and provide an opportunity for learning and networking.
The 2025 AIPH Spring Meeting will be held in Chiang Rai in the north of Thailand from 9-13 February 2025. The meeting will welcome horticultural professionals from the around the world and provide an opportunity for learning and networking.
The five-day event is organised by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) with the support of Host Partners, Chiang Rai, the Department of Agriculture of the Royal Thai Government, the Horticultural Science Society of Thailand, and the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and Headline Sponsor Biblo.
On Monday 10 February 2025, organisers of forthcoming AIPH-approved Expos will share updates on their progress at the International Expo Conference. Included in the schedule are progress reports from upcoming A1 International Horticultural Expos in Japan, Expo 2027 Yokohama, and Thailand, Expo 2029 Korat.
‘Nature, Culture, and City Life’ is the theme of the AIPH Green City Conference, which will be held on Tuesday 11. Chiang Rai is developing its vision for a wellness city, which incorporates the power of plants into a healthy urban environment. Speakers will present examples of urban greening in Asia and consider the future of green sustainable development. Also, on this day will be an Industry Conference, focusing on the development of ornamentals production in South-East Asia.
On Wednesday 12, delegates will be taken on a tour of key green city sites in the local area. These inspiring initiatives illustrate how urban greening can address common city problems, including health, social cohesion, sustainability, and more. Tour locations include the Doi Tung Development Project, the Mae Fah Luang Garden, and the Mae Fah Luang University.
The AIPH Spring Meeting will conclude on Thursday 13 February with professional and local tours. Delegates will visit two ornamentals producers: Dao Jamratsang Garden, which produces orchids, and Kaset 32 Farm, which produces potted plants such as anthurium, cyclamen, begonia, alocasia, calathea, and ferns. After lunch, the tour will continue with visits to two stunning sites in the Chiang Rai region: Baan Dam (Black House Museum), which displays a mix of artwork across its 40 buildings, and Wat Rong Kun (White Temple), which uses clever architectural techniques to create a porcelain look.
Early bird tickets for the AIPH Spring Meeting are available until 18 December 2024 and cost £850 GBP. For more information and to book your place at this inspiring meeting, visit the AIPH Website.
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IPM Essen, the leading trade fair for horticulture and the meeting place for the green sector, will take place from 28 to 31 January 2025.
Exhibitors from all over the world will present their innovative products and services in the fields of plants, technology, floristry and garden design.
The Dutch nursery stock industry and floriculture sector is traditionally strongly represented on this important stage. As many as 40 companies from the various nursery stock centres of the Netherlands, for example, will present themselves together in the BIZZ Holland stand in the ‘Netherlands’ hall, hall 8, right by entrance ‘Ost’ of the huge exhibition complex in Essen, Germany.
New this year is the Show Your Colours Garden Centre, to be found in the BIZZ Holland stand (hall 8 stand numbers 8A31-2 & 8A21-5). More than 20 renowned brands have joined forces to create a unique presentation with concept tables in a garden centre setting, complete with POS materials. Consistent branding and strong visual communication reinforce brand recognition, making it easier for customers to connect with the brands. Visitors to Show Your Colours Garden Centre will get plenty of inspiration for special campaigns and practical support in sharing plant features and care tips with their customers.
Complete offer
In the BIZZ Holland hall 8, a wide range of products will be presented, from avenue trees, ornamental shrubs, conifers, roses and perennials to starting materials and various services. We warmly invite you to discover this inspiring presentation of Dutch ornamental plant and horticulture at IPM 2025.
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After an anniversary edition in 2024 that brought together more than 1,250 professionals and 390 exhibitors, the JdC Garden Trends are back in 2025 with new ambitions.
The 21st edition, which will be held on 25, 26 and 27 March at the Parc Chanot in Marseille, are now open to buyers as of this Monday. With 4 months to go to the event, 90% of the surface area has already been reserved.
A must-attend event for the garden sector, this show is the idealplace to discover the latest innovations and emerging trends.
Driven by growing aspirations to consume better, current trends four key drivers: health, local, ecology and ethical.
Consumers are using ‘scoring’ to guide their choices and favourlocal products from short distribution channels, which are considered more reliable, even if they the price.
However, between intentions and actions, cost remains a major obstacle, revealing the difficulty of reconciling sustainable engagement and accessibility.
To fully meet these expectations and remove the persistent obstacles, how can players in the garden sector make ‘better consumption’ both more accessible and more credible? Form an opinion by visiting the JdC Garden Trends show, particularly popular with buyers as the only professional meeting in the garden distribution sector offering free access.
For several years now, the show has attracted 100% of French network brands, demonstrating its status as a must-attend event.
In addition, there are the management teams of independent garden centres, as well as sales outlets and specialist DIY and gardening shops, who are joining the event in ever-growing numbers. The show is also open to a wide range of players: landscapers, local authority green services, furniture and decoration shops, swimming pool specialists, professionals from the open-air hotel, catering and camping are also invited to dive into this rapidly expanding world.
The show stands out for its ability to bring together a wide range of diversity of sectors, creating a real crossroads for business and trends.
Gardening is changing fast. Enthusiasts of green spaces, amateurs and professionals alike, are no longer content to simply look for innovation. From now on quality, diversity of outdoor equipment, respect for the environment and traceability of products are essential criteria in their choice. Despite these changes, the garden sector remains particularly dynamic.
In 2025, JdC Garden Trends will be supporting start-ups ready to provide innovative and/or novel solutions to meet new market expectations. The JdC Garden Trends 2025 therefore promises to be an edition marked by sustainable transformation and commitment, guarantee of resilience. With conferences and meetings between professionals, this show promises to be the place where the future of the garden industry takes shape.
For more information: www.jdcgardentrends.com
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The best of last week's
If you missed last week's GTN Xtra, below are the most-read stories...
Dobbies restructuring plan approved
Dobbies Garden Centres Limited has just announced the Restructuring Plan has been approved by the Court of Session in Scotland. Dobbies will exit the leases of 10 loss making sites and two additional sites will move to other garden centre operators...
 Dobbies Garden Centres Limited has just announced the Restructuring Plan, launched in September 2024, has been approved by the Court of Session in Scotland.
The approval of the Restructuring Plan means Dobbies will exit the leases of 10 loss making sites. An agreement was reached with landlords for an eleventh site, in Antrim, to remain open.
Furthermore, and as part of the discussions with landlords over temporary rent reductions, two additional sites will move to other garden centre operators.
This, alongside other strategic initiatives, will enable Dobbies to return to sustainable profitability, unlock access to future investment and deliver a strong and well capitalised platform for the business going forwards.
Having successfully secured approval of the Restructuring Plan, focus is now on accelerating a return to sustainable profitability, working constructively with suppliers, and on providing excellent products and experiences for customers and local communities.
Dobbies would like to thank all of its colleagues, partners and suppliers for their commitment and hard work as they have navigated this process.
A Dobbies spokesperson said: “We’re pleased to have worked constructively with landlords on the Restructuring Plan. The approval of the Restructuring Plan means we can now be focused on the future, building a strong platform for a return to sustainable profitability in our stores across the UK. Thank you to all our colleagues, customers and suppliers who supported us during this process.”
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Garsons Garden Centre Esher (Destination Garden Centre), Castle Gardens (Garden Centre) and Pughs Wenvoe (Local Garden Centre) have been announced as the national winners of the Garden Centre Association’s Gisela Graham-sponsored annual Christmas competition.
The garden centres were judged to have the best festive displays in the country by the organisation and will receive their awards at its annual conference in January 2025.
Garsons took the top spot nationally in the Destination Garden Centre category for the third year running.
GCA CEO, Peter Burks says: “What a wonderful start to the Christmas countdown this competition is. I’d like to say a massive thank you to all the brilliant members who shone in our Christmas display competition this year and to also thank our wonderful sponsor, Gisela Graham.
“Well done to the team at Garsons Garden Centre, Esher in Surrey, who took the top spot nationally in the Destination Garden Centre (DGC) category for the third year running. Also, congratulations to Castle Gardens in Dorset, who were national winners in the Garden Centre (GC) section once again this year. Pughs Garden Village Wenvoe are our first winners in our new Local Garden Centre category and their displays were excellent.
“Garsons won last year and the year before and are consistently good performers in this area. While Castle Gardens are part of the Gardens Group and its three garden centres in the Westcountry are consistently high scorers in their categories for Christmas. All these centres and our other runners up are well worth a visit this December for members who would like some great ideas for best practice in this area in 2025.
“The standard was off the scale this year, with amazing displays and superb retail practices. I’m very much looking forward to hearing what our Inspector Phil McCann has to say when he presents his findings, and the ideas and images, from his visits at our annual conference in the Reading in January. He will be giving tips to all garden centre delegates – sharing good practice and helping them further develop their displays and Christmas offerings for 2025.”
Castle Gardens are consistently high scorers in their categories for Christmas.
In the DGC category, Gates Garden Centre came second and in third place was Barton Grange Garden Centre.
Second place in the GC category was Pugh’s Garden Village Radyr and The Old Railway Line Garden Centre came third.
In the LGC section, Brimsmore Gardens in Somerset came second and third place was awarded to Poundbury Gardens in Dorset, both are part of the Gardens Group, which includes the overall GC winner Castle Gardens.
Peter continues: “All the entrants were judged on general ambience, creativity, stock range, flow and tidiness. Customer service was also taken into consideration. Everyone who entered created some fabulous displays this year and really showed some flair. Those I saw on my travels were very impressive and had a real ‘wow factor’.”
Regional winners:
South
DGC
1. Garsons Garden Centre Esher
2. Ruxley Manor Garden Centre
3. Haskins Garden Centre, Ferndown
GC
1. Ransoms Garden Centre
2. Garsons Garden Centre Titchfield
3. Squires Garden Centre, Hersham
LGC
1. Knights Garden Centre Betchworth
2. Millbrook Garden Company, Staplehurst – Garden Centre
3. Squires Garden Centre, Reigate
North
DGC
1. Barton Grange Garden Centre
2. Bents Garden Centre
3. Hayes Garden World
GC
1. Fron Goch Garden Centre
2. Creative Gardens Donaghadee
3. British Garden Centres Arcadia
LGC
1. British Garden Centres Harrogate
Midlands, Wales and West
DGC
1. Gates Garden Centre
2. Webbs of Wychbold
GC
1. Castle Gardens
2. Pughs Garden Village Radyr
3. Old Railway Line Garden Centre
LGC
1. Pugh’s Garden Village Wenvoe
2. Brimsmore Gardens
3. Poundbury Gardens
East
DGC
1. Perrywood Tiptree Garden Centre
2. Brigg Garden Centre
GC
1. Haddenham Garden Centre
2. Sunshine Garden Centre
3. Bell Plantation
LGC
1. Parkers Garden Company
The GCA’s next annual conference will be held at the De Vere Wokefield Estate, Reading, from January 26 until 29, 2025, and places can be booked via the member area on the GCA website www.gca.org.uk.
The GCA members conference pages on the body’s website have full details. There is also a dedicated email for any queries members, and those wishing to book for the event, may have: conference@gca.org.uk.
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Meet the Buyer event with Dobbies hailed great success
BHETA has held another of its popular face-to-face Meet The Buyer days, this time with garden centre group, Dobbies. The event which was entitled an ‘Innovation Day’ attracted 56 attendees representing 42 suppliers, who met with six Dobbies buyers across a wide selection of categories...
BHETA has held another of its popular face-to-face Meet The Buyer days, this time with garden centre group, Dobbies. The event which was entitled an ‘Innovation Day’ attracted 56 attendees representing 42 suppliers, who met with six Dobbies buyers across a wide selection of categories.
Dobbies was keen to see both new and existing suppliers to develop ranges and extend the offer for the garden centre group’s loyal customer base. It briefed the event to include sectors such as home décor, outdoor living, tableware, cookshop, utility and small domestic appliances – as well as gardening.
Commercial Director, Andy Hannan commented, “Today's been brilliant. It's the first time we've done this type of event and it's been really a good opportunity for the buying team to reiterate we open for business and open to new ideas. We’ve seen some cool products coming through in new categories and some existing, as well as some exciting premium products. My team is really buzzing.
“Sometimes as a retailer, you've got your current supplier base and you've got your current ranges, and you sort of know what you know. But trying to get to newness can be a real struggle. So, getting this sort of speed dating approach is beneficial. We’d definitely do it again.”
Suppliers attending the event were equally enthusiastic. Clive Rubin, Managing Director at Out of the Blue Studios Limited said, “BHETA’s Meet the Buyer events are a great way of cutting the red tape and showcasing your goods to the right people, at the right time and place.” Steve Richardson, UK Sales Director at Portmeirion Group added, “Today’s Meet the Buyer for Dobbies worked really well.. We haven't dealt with Dobbies this year and I know there’s been some changes within the buying team, so it's been a massive benefit to meet their buyers again, sit in front of them show them and show what we've got.”
Another enthusiast was Guy Weaver, Chief Executive at A365 Limited: “Dobbies is a new customer for us with tremendous potential, and this event was a fantastic opportunity to connect with key buyers and showcase our products. For a small company like ours. These events provide an invaluable chance to engage with decision-makers who might otherwise be hard to reach.” Louise Hickling, Head of Sales for Polti UK added, “It was fantastic to meet the buyers in that setting. These events are incredibly valuable because they often connect us with companies we might not initially consider as obvious trading partners. But as retailers like Dobbies diversify, BHETA Meet The Buyer events open up great opportunities.”
BHETA’s DIY & Gardening sector manager, Steve Edwards commented, “It was great to see such commercial excitement from both Dobbies and its existing and potential suppliers. BHETA’s Meet The Buyer events are a real must for companies interested in cementing current relationships and expanding into different categories or channels to market.”
More details of BHETA’s events programme, which includes webinars, Meet The Buyer events and networking forums with leading retailers can be found on the BHETA website www.bheta.co.uk
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GIMA Awards Roll of Honour & Full Glee New Products Directory in GTN November issue – read online
In this Issue:
- GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards – the judges hit the road to visit 120 garden centres
- Choice Marketing – winners from the conference and awards
- Opinion – retailers on implications from the Budget
- Keter celebrate 80 years of Stewart Garden
- Glee New Product Directory – every product entered this year
- GIMA Award – winners in the roll of honour
- Glee New Product Directory continued
- Review of PATS Telford
- Houseplants in the mall – a look around The RHS Plant Space
- Planteria – plants for the festive season
- HTA Viewpoint - A chance to give back
- GIMA Viewpoint – Managing Risk
GTN November 2024 - GIMA Awards Roll of Honour & GLEE New Products Directory.
In this Issue: GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards – the judges hit the road to visit 120 garden centres, Choice Marketing – winners from the conference and awards, Opinion – retailers on implications from the Budget, Keter celebrate 80 years of Stewart Garden, Glee New Product Directory – every product entered this year, GIMA Award – winners in the roll of honour, Glee New Product Directory continued, Review of PATS Telford, Houseplants in the mall – a look around The RHS Plant Space, Planteria – plants for the festive season, HTA Viewpoint - A chance to give back, GIMA Viewpoint – Managing Risk
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GTN will be publishing its Sustainability Directory again and this year's theme will be 'Where next for Garden Centres?'.
 The garden retail sector has made huge strides with sustainability over the last five years setting the pace for eco-standards in retailing so this year we will be looking at what can be done next to re-affirm garden centres sustainability credentials and keep us as a sector ahead of the market. We will be covering services, facilities, customer interaction and education, plus of course, products for garden centres to sell that have a sustainable back story and that deliver eco benefits for their customers.
This year the printed Directory will be delivered to the GTN mailing database towards the end of December, when planning starts for the season ahead. We also produce a digital version which is promoted each week for the whole of next year via GTN Xtra at www.gardentradenews.co.uk. Over the past five years the digital versions of GTN’s Sustainability Directory have now been opened 29,597 times with an average issue read time of 5:35 minutes. The Sustainability Directory is well read and regularly referred back to each year. Together with the 3,500 printed issues and the weekly readership of GTN Xtra that means the GTN Sustainability Directory is the largest and most accessible single source of Sustainability related information for our industry. It would be great if you were a key part of that.
Please see the 2024 Sustainability Directory here
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GIMA Buyers Guide & New Product Digest Autumn 2024
New Products for the UK Garden Trade for 2025 from GIMA Members: Ames, Auto Pot Global, Avocet Hardware – Greenman Tools, Azpects, Bulldog Tools, Burgon & Ball, Capi Europe, Coir Products, Durston Garden Products, elho, Evergreen Garden Care, Fandango Fire Tools, Fargro, Forest Garden, Gardena, Glee, Greenkey, Greenleaf Horticulture, Handy Distribution, Harvest Pet Products, Hortiwool , Hozelock, Johnsons Lawn Seeds, Kleen-Tex, LBC Ultralight Boots, Marriages, Meadow View Stone, Museums & Galleries, Panacea Products, Phoenox, PlantWorks, POTR, Primeur, Primus, Sipcam, Smart Garden Products, Sorbus, The Solar Centre, Tildenet, Treadstone, Vitavia, Vitax, Witt UK & Ireland, Woodmansterne, Zest Outdoor Living, GIMA Member Directory, Join GIMA.
New Products for the UK Garden Trade for 2025 from GIMA Members: Ames, Auto Pot Global, Avocet Hardware – Greenman Tools, Azpects, Bulldog Tools, Burgon & Ball, Capi Europe, Coir Products, Durston Garden Products, elho, Evergreen Garden Care, Fandango Fire Tools, Fargro, Forest Garden, Gardena, Glee, Greenkey, Greenleaf Horticulture, Handy Distribution, Harvest Pet Products, Hortiwool , Hozelock, Johnsons Lawn Seeds, Kleen-Tex, LBC Ultralight Boots, Marriages, Meadow View Stone, Museums & Galleries, Panacea Products, Phoenox, PlantWorks, POTR, Primeur, Primus, Sipcam, Smart Garden Products, Sorbus, The Solar Centre, Tildenet, Treadstone, Vitavia, Vitax, Witt UK & Ireland, Woodmansterne, Zest Outdoor Living, GIMA Member Directory, Join GIMA.
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