In a busy garden centre, success is built on consistency. From preparing for incoming seasonal promotions and new product ranges, to keeping displays clean, replenishing baskets and trolleys and ensuring point-of-sale materials are accurate – there are countless recurring tasks that simply can’t be missed.

Yet without structure, even the most important jobs can slip through the cracks.

That’s where WorkForce Manager Job Manager makes the difference.

Jobs can be scheduled with complete flexibility – whether they need to happen multiple times a day, daily, weekly or at future dates. Each task is tracked with clear statuses – Open, In Progress, and Completed – and can be monitored instantly via dashboards, job calendars, or simple table views. This provides full visibility across your operation, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Tasks can be assigned directly to employees or linked to specific locations, allowing team members to pick up work easily—simply by scanning a QR code. This keeps your teams agile and responsive, even during peak trading periods.

Every job can be as simple or as detailed as you need. From straightforward instructions to structured workflows with sub-activities and guided survey questions, employees are supported step-by-step to complete tasks thoroughly. Responses can be mandatory (Yes/No), scored (e.g. 1–10 for stock quality checks), and enhanced with notes for added clarity.

You can also attach supporting documents or images to ensure consistency and compliance—helping every team member deliver to the same high standard.

The result? Better execution, improved accountability, and a consistently high-quality customer experience.

Never let critical tasks be missed again.

Discover how WorkForce Manager Job Manager can transform your operations – book a demo today.

Sipcam Home & Garden has announced a major step forward in its UK growth plans with the appointment of Walkers Transport as its new national logistics partner. This partnership marks a significant investment in strengthening supply-chain performance and enhancing service levels for retailers across the country.

Known for their family-safe gardening products, Sipcam Home & Garden continues to expand its portfolio of innovative brands. The move to partner with Walkers Transport, an established logistics specialist based in Leeds, will enable faster delivery, more reliable, and more flexible distribution to retail customers nationwide. This strategic move is designed to support the company’s long-term ambition to scale its eco-friendly products, improve operational efficiency, and provide an even better experience for stockists.

The bolstered distribution capabilities will support the recently assorted 2026 range. This includes brands such as Fito, GET OFF, retail partner Block Blitz and flagship award-winning brand ecofective®. This portfolio provides an innovative suite of products across plant care, houseplants, pet solutions, and outdoor cleaning, strengthening its position as one of the UK’s most forward-thinking home and garden suppliers. 

Both Sipcam Home & Garden and Walkers Transport are delighted about the new partnership. With shared values and a joint passion for greener, more sustainable ways of working, the two teams are perfectly aligned. It’s a collaboration built on energy, ambition, and a clear vision for growth that will drive exciting progress for both businesses. 

Walkers Transport continues to invest heavily in sustainability initiatives, including a modern fleet operating to the latest Euro emissions standards and the transition of its company car fleet towards electric and hybrid vehicles. Across its sites, the business operates a zero-to-landfill approach, supported by segregated waste streams and responsible recycling processes. Its vehicle wash systems also utilise interceptor tanks to ensure runoff is safely captured and managed.

Nigel Thompson, Head of Sales & Marketing at Sipcam Home & Garden, said: "The partnership with Walkers Transport is a major milestone for our business. Their expertise, reliability, and forward-thinking approach will help us elevate our service to retailers and support the continued growth of our brands across the UK."

Chris Burley, Commercial Director at Walkers Transport, added: "Sustainability is a key focus for us at Walkers Transport, and it plays an important role in every new partnership we build. As an ISO 14001 accredited business, we are committed to continual environmental improvement. As Sipcam Home & Gardens storage and transport partner, we’re proud to be supporting their sustainability ambitions and contributing to a more responsible supply chain through this partnership."

If you’d like to explore how Sipcam Home & Garden can support the growth of your business, the team would be delighted to talk through opportunities, share product insights, and discuss how their brands can add value to your range.

Get in touch with the Sipcam Home & Garden team to start the conversation – enquiries@sipcamhg.co.uk.

With two of the show gardens at Chelsea Flower Show 2026 exclusively using RocketGro compost for all their planting, RocketGro have moved to become the compost producer of choice for garden designers at the very top level. 

With two Balcony gardens using the best selling RocketGro Organic Approved Peat-Free Multi-Purpose with added John Innes Compost product as the compost for the entire build of these gardens, RocketGro have moved to next level. Rebecca Lloyd Jones garden designer of ‘The Transient Garden’, and May Starey the garden designer of ‘The Angels Share’ both choosing RocketGro products, and the company could not be more thrilled.

RocketGro Managing Director Toby Thomas commented: “Another big moment in the ongoing growth story of our business has arrived. We are 5.5 years young, and to be producing products of such quality that they now make their way into Chelsea Flower Show is a testament to the teams hard work, a validation of our strategy, and proof of concept if anyone is looking for that. These designers chose RocketGro. No money changed hands. RocketGro’s story is unique, on trend, and gaining more and more momentum. Garden centres that do not yet stock us should get on board and chat to us. Garden Centres who have switched to RocketGro for 2026 have seen compost sales in some cases up by almost 30% year on year. This is well ahead of the rest of the market. Exciting times!”

Find out more

If you want to learn more about RocketGro or are keen to discuss adding its product portfolio into your 2026 offering, please contact Toby Thomas (hello@rocketgro.co.uk /07936 928 981) or Andy Abraham (andy@rocketgro.co.uk / 07446 937902). View the full range and discover more about the RocketGro story at www.rocketgro.co.uk or follow RocketGro @rocketgro

The Leisure & Outdoor Furniture Association (LOFA) brought members together on 26–27 May for its annual Golf Event at The Oxfordshire Golf, Hotel & Spa, a venue near Thame, Oxfordshire with an 18-hole championship course in the Chilterns.

With the sun shining, the two-day event combined friendly competition with valuable networking time for brands and industry partners from across the outdoor living sector. 

Day 1 saw Dometic’s Paul Smith crowned Best Individual, with LOFA Honorary Member Paul Facey taking the runner-up spot. The Best Team of Four title went to Paul Smith (Dometic), Iain Mercer (Associate Member), Martin Sobey (Napoleon) and Richard Newton (Woodlodge), with second place awarded to Sven Ledrich (Enders), Steve Morgan (Zest Outdoor Living), Pravin (Honorary Member) and Nigel Hampson (Garden Impressions). On-course prizes were also keenly contested, with Nearest the Pin going to Alwyn Williams (Zest Outdoor Living) and Phil Wood (Dometic), and the Longest Drive claimed by Richard Newton (Woodlodge).

On Day 2, the Best Team of Four prize went to Paul Clews (Hex), Sven Ledrich (Enders), Paul Smith (Dometic) and guest player Pearl Mercer. Nearest the Pin accolades were awarded to Associate Member Iain Mercer and guest golfer James Whitley, while the Longest Drive prize went to Hex’s Neil Lafford. 

Commenting on the event, LOFA Chairman and host Alwyn Williams said: “Our annual golf event is a fantastic opportunity for members to step away from day-to-day business, reconnect with colleagues and enjoy some friendly competition on a first-class course. It was great to see such a strong turnout again this year, and I’d like to thank everyone who joined us and contributed to a memorable two days.”

The Garden Centre Association has confirmed the location and dates for its 2027 conference.

The annual event, organised by Chairman, Ben Harrison, Operations Director for Haskins Garden Centres, alongside the body’s CEO, Peter Burks, will be held in Stratford-upon-Avon from January 24-27, 2027.

Ben explains: “Following the success of our 2026 conference, which received fantastic praise from our attendees, we’re pleased to announce that our next event will be held at the Crowne Plaza in Stratford-upon-Avon in January 2027.

“Full details, including our exciting headline speakers, will be shared from the middle of June, when tickets are released. This will be the earliest ticket launch we’ve ever offered and to mark the occasion we’ll have an early bird discount for the first four weeks of sales. While the exact on-sale date is still to be confirmed, it will be announced as soon as the page on the website goes live.

“Our most recent conference welcomed more than 400 members across the two main days and generated extremely positive feedback. Delegates praised the calibre of the speakers, the atmosphere of the event and the many opportunities it provided to network and connect. Many told us the experience left them feeling highly motivated and re-energised, giving them a positive and confident start to 2026.

“Our 2027 conference is shaping up to be a lively and uplifting celebration of everything that’s great about our sector, alongside all the valuable insights given by our inspectors and the presentations from our respected guest speakers, who are motivators and experts that are pertinent to our industry.”

The GCA was formed in 1966 and celebrates its 60th anniversary this year.

Peter Burks, GCA CEO, says: “We can’t wait to start our official countdown in June to what promises to be a very special conference.

“During the next six months, we’ll be sharing regular updates as we confirm the date when bookings go live and announce our exceptional speaker programme. In the meantime, be sure to check our website and follow us on socials for the latest updates, and please join the conversation using #GCAConf2027.”

The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide.

Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

For further information: www.gca.org.uk.

The Horticultural Trades Association has called for the UK and EU to conclude negotiations on a Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement in a meaningful and beneficial way, following two days of discussions in Brussels between UK and EU Domestic Advisory Groups (DAGs).

The HTA, which sits on the UK DAG and the UK DAG Trade and Customs sub-group, attended to represent the UK environmental horticulture sector. The DAG-to-DAG meeting and Civil Society Forum focused on the ongoing implementation and operation of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), also referencing the wider negotiations announced under last year’s Common Understanding, including the anticipated SPS Agreement.

Discussions covered trade in goods, regulatory cooperation, trade in services, energy and climate, among other issues, as the UK and EU continue to shape the future of their trading relationship ahead of the next UK-EU Summit, expected later this summer.

Separately, Defra has published new guidance today for businesses on preparing for a future SPS Agreement, outlining how businesses can begin considering the potential practical implications ahead of any final agreement. Environmental horticulture is one of the areas that stands to benefit most from a successful SPS Agreement, given the significant impact border friction has had on horticultural businesses since the UK left the EU. The Horticulture-specific guidance is here.

DEFRA said it will continue to work closely with businesses and representative organisations to support understanding and preparation as negotiations progress, with further detailed information expected over the summer.

Sally Cullimore, Technical and Trade Policy Manager at the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), said:

“The primary ask from both the UK and EU Domestic Advisory Groups is the wish to see the SPS negotiations conclude in a meaningful and beneficial manner.

“We welcome the decision by the Cabinet Office and Defra to recognise horticulture as a distinct industry within the Government’s newly published SPS business preparation guidance, reflecting the sector’s specific trading requirements and operational needs.

“Key to the successful future operation of any SPS deal is ensuring both existing DAGs play a structured role in its future operation and implementation, as well as all Common Understanding initiatives still under negotiation. That can only happen if those initiatives are integrated with or aligned with the TCA, so it is important that the DAGs have input and oversight to help ensure their success, as well as for any subsequent agreements built on the TCA framework.

“The expertise to do this is in the room already, so adding extra governance structures on top of the existing TCA mechanisms would be counterproductive and risk undermining the effectiveness of the deal.”

The joint statement from the UK and EU DAGs reaffirmed the support for a renewed UK-EU trade agenda following last year’s inaugural UK-EU Summit. It also highlighted the importance of reducing trade barriers, supporting competitiveness and strengthening cooperation between the UK and the EU.

The Responsible Sourcing Scheme (RSS) for growing media is pleased to announce that the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has joined the scheme as a Supporter Member.

The RSS is an independent certification scheme for growing media, helping manufacturers, retailers and growers better understand the environmental and social impacts of the materials used within their products. The scheme evaluates materials against seven key criteria, including energy use, water use, pollution, social compliance, habitat and biodiversity, renewability, and resource use efficiency.

The RSS brings together manufacturers, retailers, growers, and supporters from across the horticultural supply chain, helping businesses and organisations demonstrate their commitment to more responsible sourcing practices and continuous improvement.

In addition to responsible sourcing assessments, the RSS is also working with industry partners on the development of industry-wide performance standards for growing media products. The work aims to improve consistency, transparency and confidence in product performance across the horticultural supply chain.

Steve Harper, Chair of the Responsible Sourcing Scheme, said: “We are delighted to welcome the RHS as a Supporter Member of the RSS.

"The RHS is one of the most respected organisations in horticulture, and their support is a positive step for the wider industry. The scheme is built around encouraging continuous improvement and providing greater transparency around growing media materials and sourcing practices.

"Having organisations such as the RHS involved helps strengthen awareness of the work being carried out across the supply chain and the importance of responsible sourcing within horticulture.
Alongside responsible sourcing, the industry must also continue to focus on product quality and performance to help build confidence throughout the supply chain.”

Alistair Griffiths, Director of Science and Collections at the RHS, said: “The transition to more sustainable growing media must be underpinned by scientific evidence, consistent quality standards and transparent sourcing. The Responsible Sourcing Scheme provides the framework needed to support the next generation of high quality growing media technologies, ensuring they deliver both environmental benefits and reliable performance. We are pleased to support this collaborative effort to drive innovation across the horticultural sector.”

Supporter Membership is open to organisations that support the aims and principles of the RSS and wish to help promote responsible sourcing, transparency and continuous improvement across the horticultural industry.

For more information about the Responsible Sourcing Scheme, visit: Responsible Sourcing Scheme

Herefordshire residents and visitors are being invited to an award-winning vineyard for a series of tours and tastings as part of English Wine Week 2026 (Saturday, June 20 to Sunday, June 28).

The events are being hosted by Foxbury Fields Vineyard at Bromsberrow on June 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24 and 26 to raise awareness of regional wine producers and wine tourism opportunities.

Heather Williamson, who is also Chairman of Hereford-based Wyevale Nurseries, co-founded the vineyard alongside her partner Richard Baker and says: “English wine is going from strength-to-strength, so it’s fantastic to be able to offer behind-the-scenes tours and give people the opportunity to sample some of the wonderful wines we produce here in Herefordshire during English Wine Week 2026.

“Across the industry, we’re reflecting on an extraordinary 2025 harvest, which has been described as one of the most impressive in recent British viticultural history. These results are a real testament to the potential and resilience of UK winegrowing, making it a particularly exciting time to visit vineyards like ours. We’re delighted to share our experiences and insights with visitors on our tours.”

English Wine Week is organised by WineGB, the national association supporting the sustainable growth of the English and Welsh wine industry.

To help celebrate the week, Foxbury Fields Vineyard will be holding tour and tasting events on June 17 at 5pm, June 19 at 5pm, June 20 from 5pm, June 21 at 2pm and 5pm, June 22 at 7pm, June 24 at 6pm, and June 26 at 2pm and 6pm.

Heather continues: “My background in horticulture, through my work with Wyevale Nurseries, has given me a deep understanding of plants, soils and the importance of working in harmony with nature. Establishing the vineyard was a natural extension of that experience and it continues to shape how we care for our vines today.

“We’re incredibly proud of our vineyard, the cultivation and land management practices we’ve implemented, and of course the award-winning wines we produce. Over the years, we’ve received regional and national recognition, with accolades ranging from highly commended to silver and bronze awards. Most recently, we were delighted to receive a WineGB Award for our 2023 Ortega.

“It’s always a pleasure to host tours, giving people a real insight into what we do, showcasing our vines and wines, and celebrating the growing success of British wine. We’d love to welcome both returning and new visitors.”

Each tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and includes a guided tasting. Tickets are £15 per person and must be booked in advance to guarantee a place.

Heather adds: “Our tours offer visitors the chance to explore the vineyard, which is nestled at the foot of the Malvern Hills and surrounded by wildlife. Each visit includes a guided walk through the vines and finishes with a tasting of our signature wines, including our classic English Bacchus and wonderfully perfumed Ortega.”

Tickets can be booked via the vineyard’s website:
www.foxburyfields.co.uk/store/Wine-Tours-and-Tastings-p748844463. 

For further details about Foxbury Fields Vineyard, please call 07974793367 or visit www.foxburyfields.co.uk.

Hillier Garden Centres has partnered with SBM Life Science to introduce Thermacell’s portable mosquito and midge protection devices to selected stores, giving customers a simple, effective way to enjoy outdoor spaces without pesky insects throughout the summer.

Thermacell®, the world’s leading spatial mosquito repellent brand, uses advanced technology to create a discreet 20m² protection zone against mosquitoes and midges, including invasive species such as the Asian tiger mosquito. The launch responds to growing consumer demand for convenient, non-topical alternatives to traditional repellents, as more consumers look to make the most of time spent outdoors.

Unlike sprays, lotions or candles, Thermacell® devices use a compact, portable unit powered by a small gas cartridge. This gently heats a repellent mat, releasing an active ingredient into the air to form an invisible barrier that biting insects avoid. Each mat provides up to four hours of protection, while a single gas cartridge lasts up to 12 hours, allowing for flexible, on-demand use. The ability to switch devices on and off helps minimise waste and maximise product longevity.

The range will be available in a number of Hillier Garden Centres, including Three Legged Cross, Newbury and Weyhill. The launch comes at a time when UK consumers are increasingly aware of rising mosquito and midge activity, driven by warmer and wetter conditions, particularly in the spring and summer months.

For retailers, Thermacell® offers a strong opportunity to drive sales within outdoor living, barbecuing and seasonal categories, sitting naturally alongside garden furniture, barbecuing and outdoor dining.

Angharad James, Brand Manager at SBM Life Science, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Hillier Garden Centres to bring Thermacell® to a wider audience. Mosquitoes and midges remain a persistent issue throughout the warmer months, often disrupting time spent outdoors. Thermacell® offers a simple, effective solution that doesn’t rely on sprays or creams, making it an attractive option for today’s consumers who are looking for convenience as well as performance.”

Philip Newton, Garden Care and Maintenance Buyer at Hillier Garden Centres added: “Our customers are increasingly looking for smarter, more convenient ways to enhance their outdoor experience. Thermacell® delivers on that need – it’s portable, refillable and easy to use, without the need for constant reapplication. It’s a strong addition to our summer range and ideal for everything from family gatherings to evening entertaining.”

Thermacell® is available to buy in selected Hillier Garden Centres now.

More information on Thermacell® can be found at https://www.seezon.co.uk/brand/Thermacell®/ and Hillier Garden Centre’s wider range of outdoor accessories and garden essentials at www.hillier.co.uk

Wyevale Nurseries has supported a major tree‑planting and landscape enhancement initiative at Cotswolds Distillery in collaboration with Gloucestershire County Council’s Greener Gloucestershire Trees Team and landscape architects Rachael White Designs.

The project forms part of a long‑term vision to transform newly acquired land at the distillery into a resilient, biodiverse landscape.

Hereford-based Wyevale Nurseries’ Sales and Marketing Director, Kersten Catella says: “The brief was to create an area that benefits wildlife, the community and the environment, while also supporting the site’s innovative natural water treatment system. Native, home‑grown trees, supplied by us, will play a key role in increasing long-term habitat connectivity, improving water quality and strengthening climate resilience across the site.”

As one of the UK’s longest‑established commercial horticultural growers, Wyevale Nurseries, which is committed to peat‑free production, biosecurity and reducing carbon footprint, works closely with partners whose environmental ambitions align with its own.

Rachael White from Rachael White Designs explains: “Our approach has always been to create landscapes that work in harmony with their setting and stand the test of time. What was once a waterlogged, heavily grazed field is now evolving into a resilient and biodiverse environment, shaped through careful landscape and planting design as well as collaboration with ecology specialists, living water.

“The addition of native trees supplied by Wyevale Nurseries is a crucial next step, enriching habitat, supporting the site’s natural water treatment systems and creating a welcoming landscape for both wildlife and visitors.”

Daniel Szor, Founder/CEO of Cotswolds Distillery, says the business wanted to show that environmental infrastructure can be both functional and beautiful.

He continues: “The project has exceeded our expectations and stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when commercial ambition and ecological thinking are aligned.”

Supplying trees for this project reflects Wyevale Nurseries’ wider environmental policy, which focuses on sustainable growing practices, responsible land use and supporting initiatives that deliver lasting ecological and social value.

Kersten adds: “Projects like this demonstrate the positive power of working together. With joined up thinking, we can develop green spaces that genuinely work for people, wildlife and the wider environment.”

The initiative also contributes to Gloucestershire County Council’s ambition to increase tree canopy cover across the county, supporting biodiversity, air quality and climate change mitigation. Volunteer planting days have enabled members of the community to play an active role in shaping the landscape, fostering a sense of ownership and connection to the site.

Gloucestershire County Council, Greener Gloucestershire Trees Team representative, Sara Noons, said: “By working alongside Cotswolds Distillery, Rachael White Designs and Wyevale Nurseries, we’ve been able to deliver meaningful tree planting that increases canopy cover, strengthens biodiversity and improves water management on the site.

“Our volunteers have also played a vital role and are taking pride in seeing the trees they helped to plant now thriving. Initiatives like this directly support our ambition to plant one million trees across Gloucestershire by 2030, delivering long‑term benefits for wildlife, climate resilience and community wellbeing.”

Wyevale Nurseries is supporting similar projects across the region, helping connect partners with shared sustainability goals and supplying high‑quality UK‑grown trees that will provide environmental benefits for generations to come.

Founded in 1930 and still family‑owned, the family-run company manages 800 acres of production across multiple sites.

As a wholesale grower and supplier of trees, shrubs, hedging and herbaceous plants, it serves the professional trade nationwide, including landscape contractors, local authorities, housebuilders, commercial estates, garden centres and plant retailers.

One of the last remaining large general nurseries in the UK with its own propagation unit, Wyevale Nurseries grows the majority of its stock in‑house.

This gives clients access to UK‑grown, traceable plants, backed by robust health protocols and acclimatisation standards that reduce failure risk and contractor liability.

For further details about Wyevale Nurseries or to find out more, please call 01432 845 200 or visit www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk.

With its longstanding agent Nigel Clarke retiring at the end of this year, Super Ninja Waspinator is restructuring its UK and Ireland coverage into three exclusive territories and is actively looking for the right people to take them on.

With its longstanding agent Nigel Clarke retiring at the end of this year, Super Ninja Waspinator is restructuring its UK and Ireland coverage into three exclusive territories and is actively looking for the right people to take them on.

The company has been active in natural pest control for a decade. In 2023 it acquired Waspinator Ltd, a well-established brand in the UK garden trade, and has been building on that foundation ever since. Its focus is straightforward: natural pest control solutions that work, backed by innovative product design and a refusal to compromise on ingredients. The belief driving everything is that sustainable pest control should be the standard, not the niche.

In the UK and N.Ireland, the primary channel is garden centres.

Three territories, one opportunity

The available regions are England South + Wales, England North + Northern Ireland, and Scotland. Each comes with an existing customer base, including names such as Blue Diamond, Squires, Caulders, Bents and Klondyke, and several more, and clear headroom for growth. Territory boundaries are open to discussion based on where you live and who you already work with.

The role itself covers what you would expect: maintaining and developing garden centre relationships, prospecting actively, presenting the Super Ninja range on a seasonal basis, and staying close to what the market is doing. You will log visits and opportunities in a CRM, attend GLEE Birmingham, and work directly with the internal sales team on orders and follow-up.

Who they are looking for

The non-negotiables are a minimum of three to five years' experience in the UK garden trade as an agent, buyer or sales professional, a real network with garden centres or related trade customers in your region, and a working knowledge of the seasonal sell-in cycle. You need to be self-employed and hold a full UK driving licence.

Beyond that, multi-line agents are genuinely welcome. Experience with non-competing lines, knowledge of sustainable garden products, and comfort with CRM systems will all count in your favour.

What is on the table

Commission runs from 8% to 15% depending on customer type, with additional performance bonuses per region. You get a structured handover with personal introductions and joint customer visits through Q3 and Q4 by the retiring agent. From day one there is product training, a sample kit, updated catalogue and price list materials, and a range of display and promotional tools.

Territory rights are confirmed in writing before you start.

Super Ninja Waspinator describes itself as a young, flat-structured company with a direct way of working. Short lines, fast decisions, and genuine ownership if you take initiative. Whether that sounds like your kind of environment is probably the best filter of all.

How to apply

Send a brief personal introduction and the territory you are applying for, your CV with relevant UK garden trade experience, and an overview of the agencies or product lines you currently represent to Sales Director Indra Stas at salesinternational@superninja.eco. Applications are treated in strict confidence.

The Pelsis Group has strengthened its UK retail sales team with the appointment of two new Area Sales Managers, supporting the continued growth of its Doff and Pest-Stop brands.

Mark Boland joins the business overseeing the North of England and Scotland region, while Natalie Giles takes responsibility for the East of England territory. With extensive experience in sales and customer relationship management, Mark will focus on developing existing partnerships and identifying new opportunities across his region.

Natalie joins the business with a strong background in retail and product management and will work closely with customers across the East of England to provide ongoing support and tailored solutions.

Chris Johnson, Head of General Sales for UK & Ireland at Pelsis Group, said: “We’re delighted to welcome both Mark and Natalie to the team at an exciting time for the business. With strong momentum across our retail brands, they have both made a fantastic start and are already building strong relationships with customers across their regions.

“Their experience, energy and customer-focused approach will play an important role in supporting the continued growth of Doff and Pest-Stop - we’re pleased to have them as part of the team.”

The appointments reflect Pelsis’ continued investment in regional expertise and customer relationships across the UK retail market, as retailers look for strong supplier partnerships, category insight and reliable service more than ever.

Speaking about his appointment, Mark Boland said: “Doff and Pelsis are highly respected brands within the garden care and pest control sectors and I’m delighted to have joined as Area Sales Manager. I’m looking forward to working closely with customers across the North and Scotland, building strong partnerships and supporting the continued growth of the brands.”

Natalie Giles added: “Having worked in both fashion and garden centre retail for more than 10 years, I was looking for a new challenge where I could continue to develop professionally and personally. I’m excited to have joined Pelsis and look forward to what the future holds.”

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is the latest to announce its participation in a major industry collaboration at New Scientist Live 2026, one of the UK’s leading science and technology festivals.

The initiative aims to engage the public with the vital role of horticulture and inspire the next generation to explore careers across the sector.

Bringing together leading organisations from across horticulture and landscaping, the collaboration will deliver an interactive and immersive experience designed to showcase the science, innovation, and STEM career opportunities within the industry.

Kew will contribute its world-renowned expertise in plant science, conservation, and education to help highlight how horticulture underpins solutions to some of the planet’s biggest challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and food security.

Visitors to New Scientist Live will have the opportunity to engage directly with Kew scientists and horticulturists through hands-on activities and live demonstrations. The collaborative space will focus on making plant science accessible, relevant, and exciting—particularly for young people considering future study and career pathways.

Raoul Curtis-Machin, Executive Director of Gardens, at RBG Kew said:  'We’re delighted to take part in this important collaborative initiative at New Scientist Live 2026. Fostering a connection between people and plants, especially for younger audiences, is increasingly vital at a time of global biodiversity loss and climate change. By uniting across the horticulture industry, we can demonstrate the variety of careers and opportunities available while inspiring future generations to contribute to a more sustainable future powered by plants and fungi.'

The initiative reflects Kew’s ongoing commitment to public engagement, education, and building skills for the future of plant science and horticulture. By partnering with industry peers, Kew aims to amplify its impact and reach new audiences beyond its gardens.

New Scientist Live 2026 will take place at London’s Excel on 10-12 October, bringing together scientists, innovators, and organisations from across disciplines to celebrate discovery and inspire curiosity.

For more information about Kew and its work, visit www.kew.org

RECOUP is pleased to confirm the appointments of Professor Andrew Dove and Jon Brookes as new Advisors to the RECOUP Board, further strengthening the organisation’s plastic circularity leadership across academia, innovation and industry.

These appointments reflect RECOUP’s continued commitment to evidence-led progress and ensure that strong academic representation and real-world market insight are embedded at Board level during a critical period for the UK plastics and recycling sectors.

Professor Andrew Dove is a Professor of Sustainable Polymer Chemistry and Director of the Birmingham Plastics Network at the University of Birmingham. The Network is an interdisciplinary research community bringing together expertise from across science, engineering, social science and policy to shape a more sustainable future for plastics.

Andrew’s appointment underlines the strength of RECOUP’s relationships with academia, which have developed in recent years as cross disciplinary research, innovation and systems thinking become increasingly central to driving circularity. Academic representation on the Board ensures RECOUP continues to benefit directly from leading research and emerging innovation, particularly around polymer design and recyclability. This growing emphasis on innovation will also be reflected at RECOUP’s flagship event this year, where innovation will take on a more prominent role through the introduction of a dedicated Innovation Room showcasing new ideas, technologies and collaborative approaches across the value chain.

Jon Brookes, Chief Partnerships & Growth Officer at Ecosurety, joins the Board bringing extensive experience in producer responsibility, policy development and partnership-building across the packaging and recycling system. His appointment also reflects the strong and growing collaboration between RECOUP and Ecosurety, which has already delivered significant white paper into the challenges facing the UK recycling sector.

The research shows that current domestic reprocessing capacity stands at around 23% of what is required, with more than 200,000 tonnes of capacity lost since 2024 due to market volatility, policy uncertainty and rising operational costs. The report brings together industry insight, policy analysis and scenario modelling to outline both the risks facing the UK’s remaining reprocessors and a clear path forward. It also sets out targeted recommendations to Government aimed at stabilising and growing domestic capacity and supporting the UK’s transition toward a more circular plastics system.

Commenting on the appointments, Stuart Foster, CEO of RECOUP said:
“The Board is a critical part of RECOUP’s ongoing success. These appointments reflect our commitment to drive meaningful progress on plastics circularity. Strengthening our links with academia, innovation and industry collaboration is essential, and Andrew and Jon bring highly complementary perspectives that will support our strategic direction.”

Which entry will succeed Digitalis Hanabee F1 White from Takii Europe / Florensis? This year, seven companies – Beekenkamp Plants, Dümmen Orange, Morel Flowers, PanAmerican Seed (distributed by Florensis), Selecta one, Suntory Flowers Europe and Takii Europe – have submitted their most impressive novelty to take part in Fleuroselect’s FleuroStar Contest.

The variety with the highest visual impact at point-of-sale will be awarded the Winner with the wow factor during the FleuroStar Award Ceremony on Thursday 11th of June at the Suntory Flowers Europe location in Leimuiderbrug.

Canna generalis

Cannova® Gold Leopard

Takii Europe

Cannova® Gold Leopard is another striking addition to the Cannova F1 Canna series from seed, bringing ‘Color Botanica’ to life through its intense golden-yellow flowers with a distinctive, red-speckled pattern. Exceptional branching and an excellent flower-to-foliage ratio result in full, voluminous plants. High-quality green foliage enhances its premium appearance and highlights the vivid flower colours. Together, these traits deliver strong visual impact, making Cannova® Gold Leopard ideal for high-impact plantings and premium retail programs.

Catharanthus roseus

Soiree® Lavender Magic

Suntory Flowers Europe

Catharanthus roseus Soiree® Lavender Magic brings an enchanting twist to the garden with flowers that naturally change colour! Each bloom gently shifts through evolving shades, creating a dynamic display where no two plants look exactly the same. This continuous transformation adds visual depth and curiosity, making every plant feel unique, vibrant, and full of life throughout the season. For retailers and consumers, Soiree® Lavender Magic stands out as a premium, low-maintenance performer, perfectly aligned with modern gardening needs. Heat tolerant, drought resilient, and easy to grow from cuttings, this Catharanthus roseus thrives with minimal water and care while delivering strong, reliable performance all season long.

Cyclamen persicum x C. purpurascens

ELIXIA® Purple

Morel Flowers

ELIXIA® Purple is the first interspecific cyclamen from seed, bred by crossing Cyclamen persicum and purpurascens. This unique perennial cyclamen combines naturally intense and long-lasting fragrance with continuous flowering throughout the year, showing peak performance in spring and autumn. Its strong, vigorous plants develop generous volume, dense evergreen foliage, and elegant medium-sized flowers, offering long-lasting decorative value in the garden. Frost-hardy down to –7°C, ELIXIA® Purple performs particularly well in shade and partial shade, making it ideal for borders, flower beds, and woodland-style plantings. Its long flowering season, perennial character, and attractive evergreen foliage create a new opportunity for gardeners and retailers seeking innovative and sustainable outdoor flowering plants. In addition, ELIXIA® Purple also attracts pollinators and contributes to biodiversity.

Dahlia coccinea

Dalina® Maxi Noir Velvet Crush

Florensis / PanAmerican Seed

Dark foliage meets velvet elegance in Dahlia coccinea Dalina® Maxi Noir Velvet Crush, a striking new dahlia bred by PanAmerican Seed and exclusively supplied by Florensis. This unique variety combines near-black leaves with large 10–13 cm double flowers in rich velvet purple shades with a soft colour gradient. The dark foliage, impressive flower size, and fully double blooms create an exceptional contrast and deliver bold summer colour in borders and containers. A premium variety with instant visual appeal, Dalina® Maxi Noir Velvet Crush offers excellent retail impact and long-lasting consumer enjoyment. Its floriferous habit and continuous flowering ensure reliable performance throughout the season, making it a standout choice for patios, gardens, and modern outdoor living spaces.

Origanum dictamnus

French Flair

Selecta one

Bring a Mediterranean touch of colour and ease to any space with Origanum French Flair — a compact perennial that delivers a continuous floral display from late spring through autumn. This pillow-shaped plant forms a bushy mound covered in abundant violet to deep purple flowers, brightening up any urban space. Exceptionally heat tolerant and naturally floriferous, it maintains a neat appearance throughout the season, with long-lasting blooms that stay attractive on the plant for extended periods. For retail and consumers, Origanum French Flair offers strong shelf life, high visual impact, and reliable garden performance, never losing its Mediterranean charm. Highly attractive to pollinators and easy to grow, it thrives in pots, borders, and urban gardens, bringing lasting colour and a relaxed Mediterranean feel to any outdoor setting.

Petunia

Tea Rosette Blend

Beekenkamp Plants

Celebrate connection and shared moments in the garden with Petunia Tea Rosette Blend, a variety inspired by the warmth of afternoon tea and the beauty of friendship. It features soft creamy petals with a deep purple-pink centre, creating an elegant bicolour flower that gently evolves through the season. Like a perfectly balanced tea blend, its colours harmonise naturally, bringing a fresh, refined look to pots, baskets and balconies. Part of the compact Tea-line, Rosette Blend naturally forms well-shaped plants without pinching. Its day-length neutral character ensures reliable flowering regardless of the season, while the quick flowering habit delivers fast colour. Designed for efficiency, Petunia Tea Rosette Blend allows for a high number of plants per square meter. Rosette Blend keeps flowering in challenging conditions, such as rain, maintaining fresh, attractive blooms without extra care. This makes it a dependable choice for retail and ensures easy success for consumers in any outdoor space.

Salvia nemorosa

Salute® Lavender

Dümmen Orange

Elegant colour and strong garden presence come together in Salvia Salute® Lavender, a brand new perennial salvia that brings soft tones and bold contrast into balance while attracting pollinators in the garden. This upright growing plant produces lavender-pink flowers held above deep burgundy calyces, creating a striking two-tone effect. Naturally well-branched, it delivers excellent flower coverage during the season and reliably flowers again after cutting back. For retailers and consumers, Salvia Salute® Lavender offers strong shelf appeal and dependable garden performance. Its abundant flowering, uniform habit, and pollinator-friendly blooms make it a valuable addition to sustainable plantings, while its ability to rebloom and maintain structure provides long-lasting colour in borders, containers, and landscapes with minimal maintenance.

The Responsible Sourcing Scheme (RSS) for growing media is pleased to announce that the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has joined the scheme as a Supporter Member.

The RSS is an independent certification scheme for growing media, helping manufacturers, retailers and growers better understand the environmental and social impacts of the materials used within their products. The scheme evaluates materials against seven key criteria, including energy use, water use, pollution, social compliance, habitat and biodiversity, renewability, and resource use efficiency.

The RSS brings together manufacturers, retailers, growers, and supporters from across the horticultural supply chain, helping businesses and organisations demonstrate their commitment to more responsible sourcing practices and continuous improvement.

In addition to responsible sourcing assessments, the RSS is also working with industry partners on the development of industry-wide performance standards for growing media products. The work aims to improve consistency, transparency and confidence in product performance across the horticultural supply chain.

Steve Harper, Chair of the Responsible Sourcing Scheme, said: “We are delighted to welcome the RHS as a Supporter Member of the RSS.

"The RHS is one of the most respected organisations in horticulture, and their support is a positive step for the wider industry. The scheme is built around encouraging continuous improvement and providing greater transparency around growing media materials and sourcing practices.

"Having organisations such as the RHS involved helps strengthen awareness of the work being carried out across the supply chain and the importance of responsible sourcing within horticulture.

Alongside responsible sourcing, the industry must also continue to focus on product quality and performance to help build confidence throughout the supply chain.”

Alistair Griffiths, Director of Science and Collections at the RHS, said: “The transition to more sustainable growing media must be underpinned by scientific evidence, consistent quality standards and transparent sourcing. The Responsible Sourcing Scheme provides the framework needed to support the next generation of high quality growing media technologies, ensuring they deliver both environmental benefits and reliable performance. We are pleased to support this collaborative effort to drive innovation across the horticultural sector.”

Supporter Membership is open to organisations that support the aims and principles of the RSS and wish to help promote responsible sourcing, transparency and continuous improvement across the horticultural industry.

For more information about the Responsible Sourcing Scheme, visit: Responsible Sourcing Scheme

Specialist business property adviser Christie & Co has announced the sale of Cranswick Garden Centre, a long-established garden centre located near Driffield in East Yorkshire.

Set across approximately 4.45 acres, Cranswick Garden Centre combines traditional horticultural retail with a well-developed leisure offer, including glasshouses, a modern retail environment and a popular café-bistro. Externally the site boasts a newly tarmac-lined 110-space car park.

The site has also benefited from recent investment, seeing enhancements made to the retail space, customer facilities and hospitality offer.

The popular #STOVE cafe bistro is well presented with 80 inside covers, with an extended chilled serve over counter, a functional log burning stove, and a large outdoor seating area.

Located in the village of Cranswick, approximately eight miles away from Driffield, the centre is approached from the busy A164 Beverley Road.

The former owners, Ray and Carolyn Sharpe, who have owned the business since 2007 and undertaken a programme of improvements in recent years, commented, “Cranswick has been a rewarding business to grow, and we’ve invested heavily to bring it to its current standard. We’re pleased to hand it over to a new owner with the energy and ambition to take it further.”

The purchaser, Zak McCombie, is new to the garden centre sector but has acquired the business with a clear strategy to expand, actively seeking further acquisitions as part of a wider growth plan for his business, the McCombie Group.

He added, “'Cranswick is a lovely centre that has a great customer base. The centre has benefitted from a lot of investment in recent years and we will continue with that over the coming years.”

Andrew Birnie, Director – Retail & Leisure at Christie & Co, managed the sale process and commented, “We are seeing a varied profile of buyers coming into the garden centre market, and this deal is a good example, with a new entrant acquiring a high-quality, profitable business with the intention of growing a broader portfolio.

“Well-invested centres with strong trading histories and development potential are proving particularly attractive, not just to existing operators but also to investors looking to establish a foothold in the sector.”

British Garden Centres has announced the acquisition of St Bridget Nurseries in Exeter. In a significant move for the brand, the historic site will be renamed Exeter Garden Centre, marking the 80th location to join the family.

This milestone follows an exceptionally strong start to 2026 for the business. The addition of Exeter Garden Centre comes hot on the heels of a rapid expansion period, which has successfully seen Dronfield, Grantham, Pepper Hill, Staplehurst, Knaresborough, and Alton welcomed into the portfolio earlier this year.

St Bridget Nurseries has been a staple of the Exeter area since 1925, serving the local community for over a century. From just an acre of land in 1925, St Bridget Nurseries has grown to about 100 acres under the Langdon family, currently run by the fourth generation, Tammy Falloon. Known for growing and selling quality plants, the Sidmouth Road site fits perfectly into British Garden Centres' portfolio of community-focused, plant-led destinations.

Charles Stubbs, Founder and Director at British Garden Centres, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the Exeter team into the British Garden Centres family. Reaching our 80th centre is a momentous occasion for us, and we couldn’t be prouder. St Bridget Nurseries has a wonderful history, and as it transitions to Exeter Garden Centre, we intend to uphold and build upon its reputation for excellence, whilst carrying on the family-led values that make it such a great store in the community.”

Tammy Falloon, Owner of St Bridget’s Nurseries, added: “St Bridget Garden Centre has been in my family for 101 years, and after 20 years at the helm, the time has come for me to pass our beloved family business onto another family to see it through the next century. I am proud to announce that it will now become known as Exeter Garden Centre and be part of the British Garden Centres group.

“Charles, Robert, Phillippa and Amy Stubbs bring the experience, energy and vision needed to take the company to the next level. This transition represents an exciting new chapter, embracing new opportunities for growth and innovation whilst continuing to offer customers first class service and building on our strong foundation.

“Thank you to all our supporters, for your custom over the years and to our great team present and past, who have worked with us to build the company. It has been an honour to lead our team and serve you all, and I will always carry immense pride in what we have achieved together.”

British Garden Centres (BGC) is the UK’s largest family-owned garden centre group with 80 centres around the country. The group is owned and led by the Stubbs family, who also own and operate Woodthorpe Leisure Park in Lincolnshire.

BGC was launched in 1990 with the opening of Woodthorpe Garden Centre by brothers Charles and Robert Stubbs. Since 2018, it has expanded rapidly with the acquisition of garden centres, allowing it to grow from its heartland to the business it is now, with 80 garden centres spread from Carmarthen to Ramsgate, Wimborne to East Durham.

The group has a team of over 3,500 colleagues working across the garden centres, restaurants, growing nurseries, distribution centres, Woodthorpe Leisure Park, and Woody’s Restaurant & Bar.

GIMA’s upcoming Buyer Connect event with The Tillington Group is already shaping up to be one of the most significant supplier engagement opportunities of 2026, attracting an overwhelming response from companies keen to secure face-to-face meetings with the retailer’s buying team.

Taking place on Wednesday 24th June 2026 at Squires Garden Centre, Badshot Lea, the event will provide selected suppliers with dedicated 25-minute one-to-one meetings with Tillington’s four-strong buying team, creating valuable opportunities to discuss future ranging, new product development and routes to market.

Following the overwhelming level of interest, the Tillington team are now busy evaluating all submissions before confirming the final meeting schedule ahead of the event. The response marks another strong milestone for GIMA’s Buyer Connect programme, which continues to create valuable opportunities for suppliers to engage directly with major retail decision-makers across the garden sector.

Martin Ward, Director of GIMA, said: “The level of interest we’ve seen for the Tillington Buyer Connect event has been phenomenal.  It already looks set to be one of the biggest Buyer Connect events of 2026, continuing the success we’ve seen with recent Dobbies, B&Q and international events.  GIMA Buyer Connect events support one of our core values of connecting buyers with our members and providing new opportunities for development."

Looking ahead to 2027 – with immediate routes to market

The Tillington Group represents one of the UK’s most influential independent garden centre networks, spanning nine companies and 45 centres nationwide, with a combined turnover exceeding £300 million.

At the heart of the June Buyer Connect event will be conversations around 2027 ranging, with Tillington’s four-strong buying team actively reviewing new product opportunities across both core stocked lines and dropship solutions.

For suppliers, the appeal lies in both the long view and the short-term potential. While discussions will centre on future ranges, there is also scope for quicker routes to market through dropship in the current trading window.

The format is designed to move beyond introductions, encouraging commercially grounded conversations around product fit, pricing, supply and scalability.

Meeting confirmations and timings will now be issued directly to successful applicants ahead of the event.

More opportunities for members

GIMA continues to build momentum through its growing programme of member engagement events, creating valuable opportunities for suppliers to connect directly with key buyers and unlock new commercial routes to market.

Next on the agenda is an exciting collaboration with the Debenhams Marketplace team, giving members the opportunity to explore incremental online sales opportunities for garden products and gain greater insight into the evolving ecommerce landscape.

Attention will then turn to Glee 2026, where the ever-popular GIMA Business Village is once again set to return following a record-breaking year in 2025. Alongside the strong exhibitor presence within the Village itself, GIMA will again coordinate exclusive pre-arranged meetings between suppliers and buyers, designed to maximise commercial opportunities for participating members.

At Glee 2025 alone, more than 180 buyer meetings were facilitated through the programme, with member feedback consistently highlighting the value of direct access to retail decision-makers, meaningful conversations and genuine new business opportunities generated through the initiative.

Find out more

For further information and to register your interest, please visit https://gima.org.uk/calendar-of-events/or email the GIMA team directly via info@gima.org.uk

With just three weeks to go until the Greenfingers Charity Kilimanjaro Trek team sets off on the adventure of a lifetime, excitement is building amongst the incredible group preparing to take on Africa’s highest mountain.

Over the coming weeks, the trekkers will be fitting in final training walks, breaking in boots, checking kit lists and wondering what on earth they signed up for, as they prepare to spend eight days trekking to the 5,895m summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

But whilst the challenge itself is huge, every single person taking part is united by one thing – raising vital funds for the Greenfingers Charity and the magical hospice gardens it creates for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.

As the countdown continues, we caught up with some of the trekkers to hear more about their motivations, emotions and what’s going through their minds ahead of the climb.

Nicole & David Higginson – New Leaf Plants

“David climbed Kilimanjaro 13 years ago for Prostate Cancer UK and I was always a little envious of his adventure,” explained Nicole. “So, when this challenge was announced I just had to say yes!  David was persuaded to join by Bob and Boyd at the Greenfingers Ball last July and I’m delighted that we can undertake it together.

“It’s our 35th wedding anniversary in August so what better way to celebrate, and perhaps test, our bond than to climb a mountain!”

Danny & Jodie Rowlandson

Danny and Jodie are no strangers to fundraising challenges, having supported charities ever since their son Max was diagnosed with leukaemia at just two years old.  “Max is now a fighting fit 17-year-old and jealous not to be joining us on the trek!” they said.

The pair also have a long-standing connection with Tanzania, having visited the country on their honeymoon 20 years ago. “We swore we’d come back one day to take on Kilimanjaro. Greenfingers is such a fantastic charity and we’re hopeful to raise as much as possible.”

Danny added: “We’ve visited hospices supported by Greenfingers and seeing both the gardens and the plans for future projects really brought home the difference these spaces make. Our son spent a lot of time in hospital when he was young, so we understand the value of getting outside into the fresh air and nature, away from the smells, colours and hard surfaces of a hospital.”

Matt Rowlandson & Kate Ebbens

For Matt and Kate, the trek combines their shared love of adventure with a determination to raise awareness and funds for Greenfingers.

“Walking and climbing together has become our shared passion,” said Kate. “We’re a little competitive too, recently summiting Ben Nevis in just six hours!  Kilimanjaro will definitely push us to our limits, especially summit day, but our motivation is clear – helping create beautiful outdoor spaces for children and families who need them most.”

Matt admits he’s also been thinking about some of the more practical realities of mountain life.  “I’m not an experienced ‘wild wee and pooer’,” he joked. “I’ve genuinely been worrying about the etiquette of disappearing behind a lava boulder!  But honestly, I cannot wait for the camaraderie, the banter and the wisecracks with the African porters. It’s going to be a blast.”

Heidi & Tara

Long-time friends Heidi and Tara have spent more than 30 years taking on adventures together, from rowing at Henley to representing their country in sport but admit Kilimanjaro may be one of their biggest challenges yet.

“We’ve always loved adventure and never say no to a good party,” they said. “But after speaking to parents with children in hospices, we know this challenge is nothing compared to what many families are going through.”

Heidi, a Greenfingers Trustee, said taking on the challenge together felt like the perfect fit.  “We knew that by doing this together we could support each other whilst helping raise money for families facing incredibly difficult situations.”

Alexa Blackmore

Alexa, Gift and Christmas Buyer for The Gardens Group, says the trek will be unlike anything she has attempted before, both physically and emotionally.

“It is through The Gardens Group that I became aware of the amazing work Greenfingers does, having supported fundraising for the charity over several years,” she explained.

“Climbing Kilimanjaro will by far be the most challenging fundraiser I have ever attempted, but I’m sure it will also be the most rewarding and something that permanently changes me.”

Alexa says her connection to the outdoors is a huge part of why the challenge feels so meaningful.“My garden is my sanctuary,” she said. “It’s where I reconnect with myself, where I relax, grow vegetables, walk my giant rescue dog Bill and simply enjoy being outside. I feel incredibly fortunate to have that space and freedom, which is why Greenfingers’ work is so important.

“The children and families using hospices deserve those same moments – the chance to feel the sun on their face, build memories together, sit outside with siblings and friends or simply have a quiet moment to breathe.”

Whilst the training has been tough, including what Alexa describes as “the year of DOMS”, she says the challenge has already changed her perspective.  “Some mornings getting up for 5.45am gym sessions before work has felt impossible,” she admitted. “But then I think about the families caring for children with complex needs every single day without pause or choice, and it puts everything into perspective.  The hard work has already been worth it. Bring on Kilimanjaro.”

Helen Taylor

Helen Taylor says signing up for the Greenfingers Kilimanjaro Trek was a slightly unexpected decision that quickly became an exciting personal challenge.  “I first heard about the trek last October at a funeral,” she explained. “Bob Marley mentioned that I was doing it and I remember saying, ‘What am I doing this time Bob?!’ I asked for 24 hours to think about it and then signed up.”

Having celebrated her 60th birthday in April, Helen said she wanted to mark the milestone by doing something meaningful.

“I wanted to support a children’s charity whilst also challenging myself physically and mentally, and this felt like the perfect opportunity.”

Whilst she admits gym training, particularly the stepper, has not been her favourite part, Helen says the support from friends, family and colleagues has been incredible, with a recent coffee morning raising more than £900 towards the challenge.

Phillippa & Libby

Mother and daughter duo Phillippa and Libby are taking on the mountain as part of Phillippa’s 50th birthday celebrations.  “We’ve taken part in lots of Greenfingers fundraising events over the years, but this will definitely be our biggest challenge yet,” they said.

“From sleeping in tents to no showers or creature comforts, we know it’s going to push us.  But if we can help raise enough money towards another hospice garden, then every step will be worth it.”

The pair say their support for Greenfingers became even more personal after visiting a hospice garden opening several years ago.  “The benefit of bringing fresh air and beautiful outdoor spaces to children, their families and hospice teams is simply priceless.”

Matt & Nic Jones

Matt and Nic are using the trek to mark a milestone year, with both celebrating their 50th birthdays shortly after returning home.  “We feel extremely fortunate and blessed,” they explained. “We understand some of the stress and worry families face when children are seriously unwell but can’t begin to imagine what many of the families supported by Greenfingers go through every day.”

The couple say personal family experiences have made the challenge feel even more meaningful.  “We hope this trip helps raise awareness and support for the charity and the incredible work it does.”

Johan Huibers

Originally from Holland and now living in the UK, semi-retired consultant Johan signed up simply because he wanted a challenge with purpose. “I’m aiming to raise £5,000 and will be talking about the trek to whoever I meet and wherever I go!” he said.  “I feel extremely fortunate that our children are healthy, so I wanted to help whilst I can.”

The full Greenfingers Kilimanjaro Trek team also includes Greenfingers Ambassador Bob Marley; Richard Howard of Doddington Nurseries alongside Tia Blunt; Richard Quarmby; Thomas Forsyth; Helen Taylor of Allan Morris Estate Agents; Greenfingers Trustee Tammy Woodhouse; Rene Assies of Assies; and Jess Dollimore of Ruxley Manor, all of whom are preparing to take on the once-in-a-lifetime challenge in support of Greenfingers Charity.

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at Greenfingers Charity, said: “It’s been incredibly emotional hearing everyone’s reasons for taking part. Every trekker has their own story, whether that’s personal experience, a love of adventure, wanting to give back or simply wanting to do something extraordinary for a truly worthwhile cause.  What unites them all is the determination to help us continue creating magical gardens for children’s hospices and the families who rely on them.”

Supporters are now being encouraged to get behind the trekkers as the countdown continues, with donations still being welcomed via the team’s fundraising pages.

The industry is also being invited to take part in Floral Friday on Friday 12th June 2026, a colourful show of support taking place as the trekkers begin their ascent.

Already a much-loved fundraising tradition at events including Glee and Garden Re-Leaf Day, Floral Friday will see supporters across the sector donning their brightest floral shirts, dresses and accessories in solidarity with the team.

Linda added: “Floral Friday is all about showing the trekkers that the entire industry is behind them every step of the way. Whether people donate, dress up in florals or simply help spread the word, every bit of support means so much.”

Show your support for the Greenfingers Kilimanjaro team

Standing at 5,895 metres (19,341 feet), Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. While it does not require technical climbing equipment, reaching the summit demands determination, endurance and teamwork

To show your support visit:
https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/greenfingers-kilimanjaro2026 and keep an eye on the Greenfingers socials to find out more about the trekkers upcoming events.

In the meantime, you can also follow all the latest updates from Greenfingers on social media - @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn, https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/ and @GreenfingersCha on Twitter.

The RHS, Hubbub and Social Farms & Gardens will invest £3.8million in growing the UK’s community gardening movement after a grant from The National Lottery Community Fund’s Climate Action Fund.

The funding will help 20,000 existing community gardens expand their reach and impact, inspire the nearly 15million who want to garden in their community to get started, and help secure land for growing in areas with limited access to green space.

Community gardens can play an important role in helping communities respond to local challenges, from creating opportunities for people to connect through gardening and food growing, to supporting greener neighbourhoods and local nature recovery. In many places, they also contribute to wider environmental benefits such as biodiversity, urban cooling and climate resilience.

While 4% (2.5million) already garden in their community a fifth of the population are keen to get involved. However, more than half (56%) of community gardening groups are fearful for their future. More than a quarter (30%) survive on budgets of less than £500 per year, only 3% own their own land, while many groups report lacking the leadership, administration and marketing skills needed to maintain and grow their offering.

The RHS, Hubbub and Social Farms & Gardens partnership will seek to future proof the community gardening movement by widening participation, growing skillsets, strengthening networks, working with local authorities and giving groups opportunity to influence decision making.

A key element of the programme is a new online platform, launching in 2028, that will offer an array of practical tools including advice on year-round harvests, sustainable growing workshops, mentorship programmes and new digital means to measure and evidence sustainability. The platform will also signpost to external resources such as available funding.

The online platform will also serve as a place for groups to meet, share their stories and recruit volunteers, with supporting campaigns from the partners to connect engaged 18-35 year olds and under-represented groups with community gardens.  The programme will work with Thrive to help address systemic barriers to participation - particularly for underrepresented and growers with additional needs - through collaborative, co-created approaches.

Convening the sector will also unify calls to action at a local and national level and help drive change. An annual summit, the first in 2026, will bring together gardeners, funders and policymakers to discuss key issues and celebrate potential.

Sarah Galvin, Head of National Community Programmes at the RHS, said: “Community gardens are critical infrastructure – they support people, planet and place – but the path to creating, maintaining and maximising a space is not always straightforward. Our intention is to unite 20,000 community gardening groups into a bold, inclusive movement and unlock the power of green spaces to deliver climate action, strengthen communities, and improve lives across the UK.”

Gavin Ellis, Director at Hubbub, said: "Community gardens are proven catalysts for grassroots climate action. We’re a nation of nature lovers, making these spaces uniquely powerful – where a connection to nature becomes a gateway to wider environmental engagement. Yet despite nearly 15 million people wanting to get involved, local groups are too often underfunded and overwhelmed. This funding recognises community green spaces as the critical infrastructure they are, equipping 20,000 groups to drive meaningful climate action in their own neighbourhoods."

Gary Mitchell, CEO at Social Farms & Gardens, said: “Community gardeners want to share their brilliant skills, not only in gardening and connecting people but how they address many of the key concerns society faces. Their insights shaped this much needed programme, which will see garden groups support each other locally, regionally and across the four nations.  We are delighted that the programme brings together the experience of SF&G, Hubbub and the RHS for the first time to bring multiple benefits to UK communities, with a focus on beautiful neighbourhood community gardens, local skills development, enjoyable community connection and serious impact.”

David Knott, Chief Executive of The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “Community gardens are about much more than plants and green spaces. They are places where friendships grow, confidence grows and communities grow stronger together.  At a time when many people are looking for ways to improve their local area, support nature and feel more connected, community gardens offer something powerful, practical and hopeful. We’re proud that National Lottery players are helping communities bring these spaces to life and create lasting change where people live.” 

Thanks to National Lottery players, the RHS, Hubbub and Social Farms & Gardens has received £3,843,344 over four years from the Climate Action Fund, a long-term commitment from The National Lottery Community Fund to support communities across the UK to act on climate change and involve more people in positive environmental action.

The new funding announcement comes as the RHS Chelsea Flower Show draws to a close with 30 gardens preparing to live on in communities across the country. The show provides all important funding for the RHS’ broader charitable work which in 2025 stood at £17million.

In addition to the creation of resources for community gardening groups across the country, the RHS will partner with Tate Britain and the Clore Duffield Foundation to deliver year‑round learning opportunities. Based in the new Clore Garden at Tate Britain, which the RHS has helped to create, the charity will collaborate with Tate to design and deliver a ten-year programme of activity, funded by the Clore Duffield Foundation, for schools and youth groups, supporting stronger connections between people, art, and plants.

For more information on Community Gardening visit Community gardening / RHS.

An ambitious redevelopment at Mayberry Garden Centre in Portslade is showcasing how thoughtfully designed all-weather structures can help garden centres unlock more flexible, future-ready retail environments.

The popular Sussex centre – part of the well-known Tates of Sussex group – has completed a major upgrade programme centred around a substantial new plant display canopy designed and installed by Fordingbridge, the leading all-weather solutions provider to the garden centre sector.

A nearly 30m x 22m twin-span barrel-vaulted canopy now creates an inviting new indoor/outdoor retail environment that can be used year-round. Clad in Fordingbridge’s unique Opal 60 roofing, the structure protects shoppers and plants from the driving rain, harsh winds and strong UV rays associated with Mayberry’s unique coastal location, while still allowing natural daylight to flood the space – creating ideal conditions for plant display and customer browsing. 

A galvanised steel finish to the canopy performs a dual function – giving a contemporary look and the durability to withstand the unique environmental challenges posed by Mayberry’s location.

As part of the upgrade, two existing Fordingbridge canopies have also been extended. This has created  additional display space for seasonal retail lines and accessories, while four existing canopy structures have been re-clad to prolong lifespan and to give the whole centre a bright, fresh look.

The result is a redevelopment that creates a more adaptable and weatherproof future for Mayberry’s ambitious outdoor retail experience.  

If you’re looking to create future-ready hybrid retail environments get in touch with the Fordingbridge team today.

With its longstanding agent Nigel Clarke retiring at the end of this year, Super Ninja Waspinator is restructuring its UK and Ireland coverage into three exclusive territories and is actively looking for the right people to take them on.

The company has been active in natural pest control for a decade. In 2023 it acquired Waspinator Ltd, a well-established brand in the UK garden trade, and has been building on that foundation ever since. Its focus is straightforward: natural pest control solutions that work, backed by innovative product design and a refusal to compromise on ingredients. The belief driving everything is that sustainable pest control should be the standard, not the niche.

In the UK and N.Ireland, the primary channel is garden centres.

Three territories, one opportunity

The available regions are England South + Wales, England North + Northern Ireland, and Scotland. Each comes with an existing customer base, including names such as Blue Diamond, Squires, Caulders, Bents and Klondyke, and several more, and clear headroom for growth. Territory boundaries are open to discussion based on where you live and who you already work with.

The role itself covers what you would expect: maintaining and developing garden centre relationships, prospecting actively, presenting the Super Ninja range on a seasonal basis, and staying close to what the market is doing. You will log visits and opportunities in a CRM, attend GLEE Birmingham, and work directly with the internal sales team on orders and follow-up.

Who they are looking for

The non-negotiables are a minimum of three to five years' experience in the UK garden trade as an agent, buyer or sales professional, a real network with garden centres or related trade customers in your region, and a working knowledge of the seasonal sell-in cycle. You need to be self-employed and hold a full UK driving licence.

Beyond that, multi-line agents are genuinely welcome. Experience with non-competing lines, knowledge of sustainable garden products, and comfort with CRM systems will all count in your favour.

What is on the table

Commission runs from 8% to 15% depending on customer type, with additional performance bonuses per region. You get a structured handover with personal introductions and joint customer visits through Q3 and Q4 by the retiring agent. From day one there is product training, a sample kit, updated catalogue and price list materials, and a range of display and promotional tools.

Territory rights are confirmed in writing before you start.

Super Ninja Waspinator describes itself as a young, flat-structured company with a direct way of working. Short lines, fast decisions, and genuine ownership if you take initiative. Whether that sounds like your kind of environment is probably the best filter of all.

How to apply

Send a brief personal introduction and the territory you are applying for, your CV with relevant UK garden trade experience, and an overview of the agencies or product lines you currently represent to Sales Director Indra Stas at salesinternational@superninja.eco. Applications are treated in strict confidence.

GTN May-June 2026 - Summer Showroom Special. In this issue: Small but mighty Fakenham Garden Centre, Glee Roadshow 2026 – the industry gathers, Celebrations and trends at Chelsea, J-Class Moongate redefines outdoor structures, Making Napoleon famous, Comfort and joy from Bramblecrest, GTN’s Summer Showroom Special over 17 pages, GTN’s Summer Showroom Directory 2026, Grass expertise from DLF and Johnsons Lawn Seed, LeisureGrow open for business, Welcome to Westland’s brand-new showroom, Introducing Royal Garden UK, Plant show round up for Summer 2026, Food allergy awareness and safety - New GTN series, Create an experience - Adapt or Die, Floral Spectacular at Chelsea - GTN Planteria, Keeping Garden Furniture moving - LOFA Viewpoint, Putting on a show - HTA Viewpoint.

John Ravenscroft VMH, the renowned horticulturist, nurseryman, garden centre pioneer, celebrity TV gardener has sadly died.

Johns family have announced that he passed away peacefully at home, Cherry Tree Park on Tuesday 26th May 2026, where he and his wife Liz created a 50 acre arboretum, continuing his life long passion for plants and establishing an exceptional collection in a quiet corner of north Shropshire. 

The funeral will be at St Luke’s Hodnet Shropshire on Monday 29th June. 

John was awarded the VMH medal by the Royal Horticultural Society in 2008 and was appointed RHS Vice President in 2010 with the RHS citing him as “ a celebrated nurseryman and co-founder of Bridgemere Show Gardens. A recipient of the RHS Victoria Medal of Honour and RHS Vice President, he is widely recognised for his outstanding contribution to British horticulture. With a career spanning more than 70 years, he has played a pivotal role in mentoring the next generation of horticulturists. His expertise and dedication continue to have a lasting impact on the horticultural community.”

Bridgemere Garden World, the nursery and the Show Gardens were purchased from Wyevale by Blue Diamond in 2019, and Alan Roper, Blue Diamond CEO has told GTN Xtra: “John was forthright with a can-do attitude; he was for me one of the great founding fathers of garden centres but he above all others went one step further in creating Bridgemere Show Gardens, which became a national attraction. His passion for plants drove his success. Selling the business all those years ago was a hard decision but as he said he did it for his children. Witnessing its decline over 20 years was not easy for him. I am pleased he lived to see his business and gardens restored and his legacy continuing. We will arrange a memorial event and create a memorial garden in the show gardens honouring his achievements. The John Ravenscroft memorial garden.”

Using the show gardens at Bridgemere, John regularly presented Gardener’s Diary on ITV through the 80’s and 90’s. Taking up that mantle now is David Domoney with the Step-by-Step gardening series.  David told GTN Xtra: "John was one of horticulture’s true pioneers, man whose passion, courage, and extraordinary knowledge inspired generations to see the beauty and value of ornamental plants. His influence helped shape our industry, touched countless gardeners, growers, and friends along the way. This week, horticulture has not simply lost an expert, it has lost one of its champions."

Most widely known for creating Bridgemere Garden World garden centre and its Show Gardens, John was also a long-time contributor to Garden Trade News writing a regular column about making the most of nursery stock.  In GTN December 1991 he signed off is column as follows: “A final word: remember that people visit you all year round and if your nursery stock is non-existent in the winter and this was your customer’s first visit to your premises, you will be judged on the showing that day. A degree of risk with plants has to be taken and accepted if your garden centre is to look impressive all year.” 35 years on John’s advice rings true and reminds us that plants really are the heart of our business.

The team at GTN, present and old thank John for his wisdom and vision.  We send our heartfelt condolences to Johns family.

Boyd Douglas-Davies, Chair of Greenfingers Charity and the Environmental Horticulture Group says that knowing John was to know one of the greatest plantsmen ever.

“I first met him when selling plants in 1991 for Webbs. On starting in the role I was told to go to see the team at Bridgemere. John strode into the meeting I was having with the Plant Manager, and told me that I was wasting my time as Bridgemere didn't buy from anyone else and only sold home-grown plants. Slightly battered, I stood my ground and reminded him that he did actually buy from us occasionally. Whilst he took me on a tour of the gardens he did place an order for 1,800 plants!

“Since that first encounter, I have had many a tour of Bridgemere, and more recently the arboretum, with John. On every visit I learnt so much as he was always generous with his time and knowledge. RIP John"

Please feel free to add to this story by using the comments link below or by e-mailing trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk

Geoff Hodge comments: "I was also one of the presenters on Gardener's Diary and worked alongside John for several years. His wealth of knowledge about plants and how to grow them to show off their best was astounding. Another sad loss to the horticultural world, following soon after Matt Biggs."