The continuing dry weather in September saw hard landscaping sales increase by 27.12% compared to the same month last year, according to the Garden Centre Association’s Barometer of Trade returns.
Hard landscaping sales were up 27.12% for the month as compared to September, 2014 according to the results, which are the only official GCA September trading figures to be released.
GCA chairman Will Armitage said the mild and dry September had definitely contributed to increased purchases of products to improve outdoor spaces.
Furniture and barbeques also sold well during the month, up 19.03% up, with outdoor plants up 14.64%, garden sundries up 12.48%, houseplants up 7.25% up and catering up 4.6%.
The GCA reports are compiled using actual sales figures and provide an up-to-date trading position statement. They are made available mid-month following the end of the prior month after all member garden centres have submitted their results.
The reports allow members to compare their trading positions with other centres.
Matthew Bent, MD of Bents Garden & Home said the good summer weather had helped to make 2014 “a fantastic year”.
“During the summer months anything garden related proved successful, from our plants and garden care products to garden furniture and outdoor living. This trend continued through to September as customers were keen to make the most of the continued warmer weather.
“We, like most other garden centres, experienced increased sales in garden furniture, accessories and outdoor lifestyle, with figures significantly up on both budget and last year’s figures. It has been a great end to the summer and further demonstrates the importance of good weather.”
At Coolings in Kent, catering has been a star performer. MD Gary Carvosso said year to date catering figures were 13 per cent up. “We are budgeting for £1m turnover this year,” he said. “The key areas for growth have been hot food, coffee and cake in that order. We pride ourselves on serving fresh food, and serving the food direct from the kitchen.
“We introduced a coffee loyalty card to our ‘Arthurs’ restaurant this year, which has lifted coffee sales and we now have two bakers full time supplying almost 100% homemade cakes. Afternoon tea has also been a very popular introduction this year.”
