The ‘Grow Your Own Profits’ roadshow sessions, running over February and March next year, are designed to help garden centres maximize sales of bulbs, seeds, plants, garden sundries, irrigation and bird care. A key aim is to increase footfall and average spend, particularly in core gardening, via as many channels as possible.

Topics will include:

• Why sales of core garden products and many plants fail to reach their full potential, despite customer demand
• How to target customers of all ages and abilities, using internal and external means
• Training for appropriate plant and product groups with quick and easy references to rapidly increase staff knowledge and enthusiasm
• Thinking outside the box
• Making the most of all resources and opportunities
• Implementing a sustainable and realistic strategy

The courses are intended for planteria and sundries staff, owners, managers and marketing employees. Delegates will take away a comprehensive set of training materials.

Liz Hutson says core garden products remain something of a mystery to many customers. “While many other departments may be peaking in terms of potential, there is still a long way to go in order to make the most of the sales opportunities in core gardening in most centres”

She adds: “Improving product knowledge and increasing staff motivation and confidence will have a marked impact on the bottom line and if this is combined with better internal and external communication with the consumer, it can only enhance sales further and help centres make the most of every square metre of selling space.”

Gardman’s Director of Business Development, Lolly Lee, said: “As leading suppliers of core gardening and bird care products, Gardman had no hesitation in offering its support for Liz’s initiative. Good product knowledge helps staff to engage with customers and improve the retail experience, and we believe garden centres will find this a great way to up their game.”

Dates and venues:

• Maidstone – 16 February (Marriott Tudor Park)
• Guildford – 18 February (Barnett Hill Hotel & Conference Centre)
• Cambridge – 23 February (Menzies Hotel)
• Birmingham – 25 February (Holiday Inn)
• Chester – 29 February (Carden Park Hotel)
• Perth – 2 March (Murrayshall House Hotel)

Prices start at £70 plus VAT per delegate (depending on numbers) for early bird booking. Lunch, refreshments and all course materials are included.

Garden centres may book via a special HTA mailing, direct through Liz Hutson (01531 631592, liz.hutson@ledburybband.co.uk) or online at www.bookwhen.com/growprofits