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Will 2017 see the sale of the century?
GTN Xtra looks into the crystal ball at the prospects for the year ahead
The big question is what will happen with Wyevale Garden Centres this year? Since Tesco sold Dobbies, not to Wyevale...
The GTN team have been musing over the festive period as to what 2017 may have instore for us all after another busy year of industry events in 2016. The big question is what will happen with Wyevale Garden Centres this year? Since Tesco sold Dobbies, not to Wyevale, it appears the group owned by Terra Firma has stalled if not completely stopped on its acquisition strategy. So what next? Can the new Wyevale management team deliver the returns required by the investors from the existing portfolio of sites or will they be tempted to start a sell off process that could lead to the sale of the century? There would be plenty of interest in the bigger sites from the likes of Dobbies, Blue Diamond, Haskins or Notcutts. Growing groups such as British Garden Centres and Hillview would probably be interested in many of the smaller sites. Independents with multi-site operations such as Longacres, Langlands and Webbs may wish to make further strategic acquisitions and smaller independents looking to add to their own buying power and expand their brand locally may also see opportunity in casting their way of trading over a Wyevale site. Or we could see a new player come in and buy the whole group from Terra Firma. The continued good performance of the garden centre retail sector must be attractive to many other retail operators. One thing we do know that will happen in 2017 is the launch of the first Bunnings style garden related operation at St Albans in the spring. It will be interesting to see how that impacts on the future of garden retailing in the UK. Will B&Q up its game to compete? How will the discount traders such as B&M and The Range handle gardening? 2017 will be a record for Container Plant Sales Whatever happens regarding ownership of garden centres one thing we are sure about is that where retailers get it right by offering superb plants planted up in great pots, that inspiration will lead to record sales. From all we’ve seen at Greatest Award winning centres and in the GTN Bestsellers charts during 2016 customers are buying things (that includes plants) that look good, are convenient (minimum work) and give them the best chance of success. Unless you are a keen gardener (spending more than 10 hours a week in your garden) our garden centre customers are looking more at “decorating” their garden rather than doing any hard work. 30 years ago the concept of the “outside room” was conceived. Now with smaller gardens, beautiful products and plants always on sale that are “looking good” it is a reality. So it’s no surprise that buying trends are following closer lines to homewares than garden sundries. Just look at the volumes of garden lighting that were sold in the Christmas period this year – people wanted to decorate their garden as well as decorate the inside of their house. The Experience will be everything The Christmas period has once again confirmed to us that where garden centres create memorable events and experiences to attract customers, their retailing skills, which are in many cases better than the high street, allow them to maximise on sales opportunities. How many other centres will follow the lead of Hayes Garden World to create a Fairy Grotto to attract families during the summer? What other experiences, including special restaurant events can garden centres develop to keep footfall high and drawn away from other retail opportunities? Garden Re-Leaf Day on Friday March 17th is a growing opportunity to drive footfall, awareness and sales. We predict Garden Re-Leaf Day 2017 will raise more money than ever for Greenfingers as we know many retailers and suppliers are already planning their involvement. The sponsored walk in Cambridge will have record numbers of walkers and more than double the number of 24 hour Plantathons are being set up. You can find out more at www.gardenreleaf.co.uk. Just think; a memorable 24 hour Plantathon with loads of unique marketing opportunities, that creates plenty of planted pots that customers can buy to “decorate” their garden with and raise funds to create more much needed gardens at children’s hospices. What better way to start the gardening year! What are your thoughts looking ahead to 2017? Use the comments link below or please e-mail trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk.
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Smiemans set to WOW with the World of Westland
Smiemans Projecten has been assigned to build the superstructure of the knowledge and innovation centre 'World of Westland' in the Netherlands. This special project 'WOW' will be THE international platform for horticulture where research, education and business come together...
Smiemans Projecten has been assigned to build the superstructure of the knowledge and innovation centre 'World of Westland' in ther Netherlands. This special project 'WOW' will be THE international platform for horticulture where research, education and business come together.
Smiemans starts in mid-March with the glass constructionwith a surface of 4.520m2. The glass roof is 12.30 meters high, this is high enough for two floors with shared facilities for ± 300 guests, such as an auditorium, meeting rooms, flexible workstations and a restaurant.
Several companies are going to use these facilities, some are also going to settle there. Next to the glass building a school and greenhouses for research will be built which will lead to innovation 365 days a year.
The projects of Smiemans are often abroad, this time close by in its own region Westland. Westland has a world-leading position in greenhouse horticulture.
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Scotts Miracle-Gro UK general manager Sheila Hill says it’s "business as usual” despite speculation about the company’s future in Europe and talk of redundances.
When asked by GTN Xtra about all the rumours circulating about the Scotts Miracle-Gro company in the UK and Europe, Sheila said:
"As you may have heard, our US parent company has announced its intention to exit the European business.
"In the future we expect this will mean working with a new strategic partner or new investor. We believe this will provide the best platform for the business and therefore should be regarded as exciting news.
"We have great brand equity and any new partner will want to invest more intensively in the business to continue to grow it.
"We do not believe that this development will impact our UK customers. We have great brands, a dedicated team and extensive experience of the marketplace.
"This development will help us leverage all that even more effectively and further enable the business to realise its full potential.
"As yet no decisions have been made and therefore it's business as usual. We have consumers who love our brands and customers counting on us to deliver. As soon as we have more to communicate, rest assured, we will do so."
From our conversation with Sheila it's clear she is very excited by the prospect of new investors owning the business and injecting new energy into Scotts Miracle-Gro. She also confirmed there had been a few redundancies as a result of the decision to sell the Chapelwood and Bermuda brands. As with all retailers we look forward to hearing more about the future of key UK gardening brands and products. Watch this space.
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Happy New Year from all at GTN, Garden Radio and The Greatest Awards
Happy New Year to all our readers, advertisers and garden centre customers.
We've really enjoyed bringing you all the news as it happens and more retail ideas than ever before during 2016 and we look forward to doing more of the same in 2017.
Here's hoping to see many of you at The Greatest Christmas Party in Harrogate on January 8th. It is a great way to start the new year.
See you on the dance floor!
Trevor, Neil, Mike, Mandy, Ben, Alan, Rebbecca, Harry and Karen.
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Coles Nurseries have an exciting opportunity for a Retail Plant Centre Manager to manage the day to day operation of Coles Plant Centre.
The applicants will preferably have Garden Centre management experience, the ability to work with and develop a team, be forward thinking and interested in joining a business established over 100 years and one of the largest wholesale nurseries in the UK.
The business has plans to develop the Plant Centre in the future, and would like the applicants to be part of that process. Both roles are an opportunity for someone to make a real difference and grow their career in retail management. Salary will be appropriate for the position.
Reporting to
James Coles (JRC) and Mark Cade (MJC).
Responsibilities (initial guidelines)
• To operate the Plant Centre within Company policies
• To manage and control stock and purchases to maximise sales, profitability and stock turn.
• To ensure an annual stock take is planned and executed with accuracy.
• To ensure the team maintain the quality of stock, dry and green, offered at all times.
• To engage with JRC when planning new product lines, and developments.
• To be aware of Health and Safety protocols and inform JRC where action is required.
• Check frequently security around the site.
• Planning staff rotas ensuring sufficient cover is maintained in all departments at all times.
• To be aware of the ranges available from Coles Nurseries, and include in purchasing if appropriate.
• Ensure all staff are aware of cash handling procedures, sales/refund procedures.
• Train and develop staff members where required or desired.
• Annual appraisals of the staff team.
• The logging of staff attendance and hours.
• Maintain staff uniform quality and presentation.
• Ensure that customers come first and are at all times greeted with a friendly yet efficient team.
• To assist in development and implementation of marketing plans
• To comply with waste regulations, and ensure the site is safe and tidy.
• To be proactive, enthusiastic and driven to succeed.
• To work with Steve Myatt and Joy Lamb (Garden Retail Success) in developing the business in
the Making it Happen programme.
• Any additional duties for the benefit of The Business.
Please send your applications including your CV and references to: Mr J Coles
James Coles & Sons (Nurseries) Ltd
624 Uppingham Road, Thurnby, Leicester LE7 9QB
recruitment@colesnurseries.co.uk
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Following a recent internal promotion we are now looking for a new garden centre manager to lead the team at Little Heath Garden Centre. This store is about to embark on a refurbishment programme so this is a great time to join us. Having had previous experience at management level, preferably within a garden centre, you will be a natural leader with a 'hands on, can do' attitude. This is a busy site with a strong Aquatics Department and popular Cafe. The introduction of garden furniture and a broader range of leisure goods has been very successful and we anticipate the imminent improvements to lift the store even further. A horticultural background is preferable but not essential. Computer literacy is required as you'll be responsible for a lot of the product purchasing at store. Managers are encouraged to run the store as if their own business so you need to be highly organised and commercially savvy. Please send CV and introductory letter to Boyd.ddavies@hillview-group.com Closing Date 8th January 2017
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Coles Nurseries have an exciting opportunity for a Retail Plant Centre Senior Supervisor to assist in the day to day operation of Coles Plant Centre. (Weekend Duty
Manager). The applicants will preferably have Garden Centre management experience, the ability to work with and develop a team, be forward thinking and interested in joining a business established over 100
years and one of the largest wholesale nurseries in the UK. The business has plans to develop the Plant Centre in the future, and would like the applicants to be part of that process. Both roles are an opportunity for someone to make a real difference
and grow their career in retail management. Salary will be appropriate for the position.
Reporting to The Plant Centre Manager. Responsibilities (initial guidelines)
• To work with Steve Myatt and Joy Lamb (Garden Retail Success) in developing the business in
the Making it Happen programme.
• To work with the Manager to ensure the smooth running of the Plant Centre and the quality of
products offered both dry and green.
• To provide cover for the Manager when on days off or leave/sickness.
• To work with Plant Centre assistants ensuring that set tasks are completed to satisfaction, and
support the team where needed.
• To work with the team to ensure the site is clean, tidy and well presented at all times.
• Ensure the staff team are well presented and timely with attendance.
• To assist the Manager with cash handling, ordering systems and invoices, plus any additional
paperwork required.
• Ensure deliveries are checked and that inward delivery systems are adhered to, and claims for
breakages/short deliveries are made immediately.
• To assist with purchasing where required, and discuss with the Manager any stock issues you
are concerned about.
• Always discuss any areas that you feel could be improved with the Manager.
• Remind the team of holiday date embargoes, and be aware of Health and Safety issues around
the Centre
• Any additional duties for the benefit of The Business. Please send your applications including your CV and references to:
Mr J Coles
James Coles & Sons (Nurseries) Ltd
624 Uppingham Road, Thurnby, Leicester LE7 9QB recruitment@colesnurseries.co.uk
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 The Company: Apta is the leading supplier of quality flower pots and accessories to the UK garden trade, under its own brand and iconic UK brands, The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and Laura Ashley. The company has achieved very considerable growth and now wishes to strengthen its merchandising team with the recruitment of additional Product Merchandisers. The role will appeal to motivated and ambitious individuals. Job title: Product Merchandisers (Full-Time). See Areas below. Area 1: Kent Area 2: Southwest and surrounding areas Area 3: Sussex, West Kent, south London, Surrey Salary: £22,000+ after training with immediate start. Generous bonus scheme & company vehicle. Progression: Apta has a track-record of promoting its staff. The Role of Product Merchandiser: - Building upon strong partnerships with existing customers
- Working with the sales team and head office to ensure that customer experience is always exceptional.
- Planning and working to an effective journey plan, maximising customer contact.
The person for this Product Merchandiser opportunity:
We are looking for committed, fit and motivated individuals to join our excellent merchandising team. The main duties involve setting up display benches and displaying our products within garden centres.
Area 1: mainly covering Kent, Sussex, and surrounding areas. Candidates must be well located in the territory, ideally in the Ashford area. Other well located locations within the territory will be considered. Area 2: mainly covering the Southwest and surrounding areas. Candidates must be well located in the territory, ideally in the Exeter area. Other well located locations within the territory will be considered. Area 3: mainly covering Sussex, Kent and surrounding areas.Candidates must be well located in the territory, ideally in East Sussex. Other well located locations within the territory will be considered. This is an outdoor job involving heavy lifting and only applicants whom are fit, healthy and willing to work extended hours during our main season should apply. A company vehicle is provided for all work duties along with a fuel card and mobile phone. A full clean driving licence is required and applicants need to be 23 + years of age.
Applications should be sent by email with your CV and covering letter to Brian Cobb, Merchandising Manager, brian.cobb@apta.co.uk or telephone 07968 153418 for any other details.
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Area Manager Lawn Care (ref:DS8922) Location: Northamptonshire
Salary: Competitive
Date: 19 Dec
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent  This fresh and innovate new lawn care company have a core focus on providing their customers with a range of bespoke Lawn Care treatment programs and specialise in the treatment of weeds, moss, pests and diseases. They can also tackle all outdoor garden surfaces including decking, driveways, pathways and patios throughout the seasons and provide customers with an excellent level of service and care.
This expanding company is now looking for an entrepreneurial individual with a good horticultural background who is a self starter and able to manage one of their areas which will cover North Northamptonshire, North Cambridgeshire and South Lincolnshire. The Role The role will be to visit customers and assess the level of treatment they will need, prepare quotes and also carry out the treatment. You will be capable of taking on the area, develop the customer bases and as this area grows you will train additional staff to carry out treatment plans for the customers ensuring that they do this to a very high standard of customer care. The Candidate For this role they are looking for an outgoing, target focused individual with a strong work ethic who is able to look for new opportunities to sell their services and has a confident outgoing manner. Training in horticulture is essential and it is desirable that the successful candidate has PA1 & 6 Spray Certificates. To apply for this role click here
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Garden Sundries Retail Manager | Hertfordshire (ref:DS8219) Location: Hertfordshire
Salary: £16,000 - £20,000
Date: 25 Nov
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent  Our client is a Nationwide group that are continually growing and developing their leading garden centres across England and Wales. They are proud of their heritage in the gardening industry and each and every one of their garden centres has its own identity and for this reason each of the garden centres is separately branded and the staff and customers are loyal to their centre.
Currently they are seeking an outstanding Garden Sundries Retail Manager to manage their Shop area.
The Role
This is an exciting opportunity to join a cutting edge Garden Sundries Department. The ideal candidate will have a background in garden centre retail with excellent garden sundries product knowledge from seeds to clothing. They will manage seasonal changes and have the ability to present and merchandise their department to the highest standard.
The Candidate
Team leadership skills are essential as is the ability to communicate well with customers delivering excellent standards of customer care. Working in a busy retail team environment means you will have to have a hands-on approach to all duties within this department.
Candidates must have a background in retail, be able to merchandise and manage rapidly changing stock.
Knowledge of garden products and garden chemicals etc. would also be an advantage.
If you are passionate about Garden Sundries and would enjoy sharing this enthusiasm with our client's customers, we would love to hear from you.
To apply for this role click here
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Despatch Packhouse Manager (ref:DS8885) Location: Herefordshire
Salary: £25,000 - £35,000
Date: 07 Dec
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent  Our client strives at all times to supply, exceptional quality plants. Provide outstanding customer service, whilst maintaining a sustainable, ethical business model with a well-trained, motivated and developed team working within the 'culture' of their family business, one of; efficient and focused work ethic, respect, professionalism and friendliness where their people all feel valued, challenged and fulfilled in their work. They are currently seeing a Packhouse Manager for their Despatch Department.
The Job To take the lead and manage the pack house planning, organising and implementation of pack house operations across two sites.
To ensure the delivery of departmental performance targets and business strategy by leading, managing, training and mentoring that team so that they continually work to a continuous improvement cycle delivering outstanding quality and customer service whilst working in an efficient and effective way, following business policies and SOP.
Required to deputise for the immediate line manager (this would include shift patterns), or during high workload times of year.
To provide support in specific key areas of the business as directed by the line manager / supervisor.
To be responsible and accountable for key business goals and targets that may be assigned from time to time as and when required by the business.
To continually look at and suggest how the business can increase its effectiveness, efficiency, quality and customer service in the areas of the business being presently worked in at the time.
The Person Must be an effective, accurate and honest communicator up and down, both within and across departments.
Must have experience of leading, motivating and developing teams preferably at management or supervisory level.
Must be well organised with excellent attention to detail and the ability to prioritise work.
Must have a flexible approach to work and able to demonstrate problem solving skills.
Must be proficient in the use of IT systems, including Microsoft Excel.
Must have an understanding of process improvement and LEAN systems.
Must have a working knowledge of Quality systems.
Must be a great team player and be able to motivate, mentor, train, support and develop their teams.
Should be at ease on the shop floor.
Ideally have experience of working with the horticultural industry.
Ideally have some experience of change management.
The position may involve early morning, late night and weekend working on a rota basis during the season and may involve the use of an annualised hours contract. To apply for this role click here
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Trading Manager Horticultural Mailorder E-Commerce Retailer (ref:DS8881)
Location: Surrey
Salary: £30,000 - £35,000
Date: 19 Dec
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent  Our client is a leading Horticultural Charity and as part of the Marketing and Fundraising strategy they operate a trading arm that sells cards, gifts and gardening products via an online shop, catalogues, garden shows and retail space at two gardens owned by the charity.
This is an opportunity for an enthusiastic retailer with a 'can do' attitude to build the charity's trading arm for the future. Currently turning over c£250k they believe the trading arm has much more potential, not only to increase its turnover and thus donations to the charity but also in raising the profile of in garden retail to reach out to more people who may be missing out on their help. Following a comprehensive review of the current structure, investment is being made in a new online shop, implementing new systems and changing the operational structure of the business. Supported by a strong management team, you would be highly involved in this exciting project.
This is an exciting time to join this dynamic client. Following a review in 2016, the operation is being streamlined and the person who takes on this role will be working closely with the Head of Trading for the first few months, who is the part time consultant brought in to review the practices on a contract basis which ends in Spring 2017. The Trading Manager will implement the operational changes and be key in developing and managing every aspect of the company for the future.
For this role they are seeking someone with:
Experience of working for a major retailer, preferably within the garden centre, gardening, giftware or charity sector.
Experience of effective customer relationship management.
Experience at product selection and buying.
Experience in managing sales and fulfilment of online shops and catalogues.
Experience of organising and managing staff, trade stands at exhibitions/shows.
Ability to think strategically with a good commercial instinct and deliver recommendations.
Excellent relationship management and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. Character/Personality:
Flexible with an enthusiastic and a 'can-do' attitude.
Able to work on own initiative.
Desire to coach and develop their own team and naturally supportive of colleagues.
Willing and able to integrate into a fresh, creative, and fast-paced department.
Passion for gardening/horticulture. To apply for this role click here
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Briers CEO joins board of trend monitor EFSA
Briers has stepped up its involvement with EFSA, the European Floral and Lifestyle Product Suppliers Association, with two appointments to key positions within the organisation...
Briers has stepped up its involvement with EFSA, the European Floral and Lifestyle Product Suppliers Association, with two appointments to key positions within the organisation. CEO Jackie Eades joined the board during the EFSA October 2016 general meeting, with her nomination unanimously supported. "With Jackie on the board we make another step towards an international orientation," said Toine Van de Ven, EFSA chairman. The company aims to use this ongoing partnership to strengthen its position as the original fashion-led garden clothing, gift and tool brand. Jackie will be be working alongside EFSA’s dedicated trend partner and the wider EFSA council to deliver inspirational design, innovative lifestyle options and developments for the Briers brand. This partnership gives Briers access to trends information up to 18 before they become mainstream. “We want to ensure our ranges, and indeed this industry, are as relevant as ever to our growing audience,” said Jackie. “I’ve got some really exciting plans that I can’t tell anyone about just yet, but I will say that the work we are doing with an internationally renowned trend partner is a vital part of it!”  Tristan Sissons, Briers’ trading director, has just been enrolled on the EFSA ‘colour committee’. The new appointment will allow Briers to work more closely than ever with other major European lifestyle suppliers, predicting the next big trends in colour.
Briers are still the only UK supplier to join EFSA, a relationship dating back to 2014. Since joining, Briers has enjoyed an exclusive relationship that has provided inspiration for its product ranges, all of which are designed in-house.
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With exhibitor bookings up 19% year-on-year, the Glee team has expanded to meet growing demand, particularly from international markets. Alix Mariello has joined as international sales manager. Her responsibilities will include new business development with a particular emphasis on growing Glee’s international exhibitor base, as well as driving exhibition stand sales within the show’s plant and pet sectors. Glee’s event director Matthew Mein said: “We’re incredibly pleased to welcome Alix to the team. She has already made her mark, and no doubt her experience from her previous role as senior manager within an international business development company will pay dividends as we look at ways to expand Glee’s offering in 2017 and beyond, as well as ensuring exhibitors have a strong and ongoing support network before, during and after their time at the show.” Since the close of Glee 2016, the show has witnessed a record-breaking start to its re-booking process, with floorspace filling up fast. Core brands who have already confirmed their presence at Glee 2017 include Westland Horticulture, Bonningtons, Gardman, Apta, Smart Garden Products, Elho, Briers, Kelkay, SBM Life Science (previously Bayer), Woodlodge, The Scotts Miracle Gro Company, Kaemingk, Cadix, Petface, Town & Country, and Burgon & Ball. Eden Greenhouses, Evergreen Peat Products and Vitavia have all confirmed their return to Glee during 2017 after a short break from exhibiting. Brand new exhibitors set to make their Glee debut come September will include Koopman, a key Dutch supplier, German gift wholesalers, Hellmann-Versand, Sporting Wholesale UK, Crystal World, Bidvest Wholesale, Potters Crouch Candles and Chive.
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Dark Red Cover Pots are once again the most popular garden product in the last GTN Bestsellers Garden Products chart of the year, with Orchid drip feeders just outselling Poinsettia feeders which is the opposite of last year.
The year end stars of the chart are however garden lights with 11 lines featuring in the top half of the chart.
The main highlights were:
- The highest new entry was Apta Glazed Pot Large Assorted at No 39.
- Oasis 1141 Wet Floral Foam Cylinders was the highest re-entry at No 24.
- Vivid Arts Plant Pals Robin On Stick was the highest climber, jumping 24 places to No 20.
- Scheurich Cover Pot Dark Red 15cm claimed top spot.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
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The last GTN Bestsellers Christmas chart of 2016 reflects the state of sell out in many garden centres as the final days of shopping are upon us.
This week’s chart is proliferated by Christmas sweets and last minute panic purchases, where they are still avaialable.
Harrogate Christmas and Gift exhibitors should be in for good order levels for 2017 as there won’t be much packed away from this year.
- Albert Premier Chocolate Gold Coins In Net 75g was the highest new entry.
- Premier Deluxe Plush Santa Hat was the highest re-entry.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
Growing media sales 7% up for the year
Three lines of houseplant compost feature in the Top 10 of the GTN Bestsellers Growing Media chart as sales dip to their annual low, but end the year 7.1% up year on year...
Three lines of houseplant compost feature in the Top 10 of the GTN Bestsellers Growing Media chart as sales dip to their annual low, but end the year 7.1% up year on year.
The main highlights were:
- Westland Decorative Mini Bark (50 litres) was the highest climber, jumping 18 places to No 20.
- Bord na Mona Growise Multi Purpose With John Innes (56 litres) was the highest re-entry at No 9.
- Scotts Levington Multipurpose + John Innes (56 litres) retained the top spot.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
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Another week of increased plant sales shows the importance of great plants and great plant displays.
Customers may not have been able to buy some Christmas products because they’ve sold out, but they have certainly bought high volumes of plants to use for their own decoration or to give as gifts.
- Roses bought as gifts saw a near 500% increase to move up to No 7.
- Poinsettia hold on to the No 1 spot, just ahead of Cyclamen.
- Beech hedging sales see Fagus as a new entry at No 22.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
Brian's patience is rewarded as bird of paradise flowers
Despite having been a grower for more than 50 years, Mr Fothergill's trials manager Brian Talman still enjoys a horticultural challenge. During those years he has learned the value of patience, and nowhere more so than with his experience of Strelitzia reginae, also known as bird of paradise.
Despite having been a grower for more than 50 years, Mr Fothergill's trials manager Brian Talman still enjoys a horticultural challenge. During those years he has learned the value of patience, and nowhere more so than with his experience of Strelitzia reginae, also known as bird of paradise.
Brian sowed the seed of the flamboyant South African native back in 2008, and waited for it to germinate in his greenhouse; the process took two years, but finally green shoots emerged. He has been nurturing the plants ever since, and in December 2016 he was rewarded when the first flower appeared on a 2m tall plant - six years after it first emerged.
"It has been growing in general purpose compost all that time", explains Brian, "and it even managed to survive being frosted once, despite its tenderness. It's great to see it flowering after all that time!"
In the wild, Strelitzia reginae is thought to be pollinated by the sunbird (Nectarinia afra), which lands on the corolla tongue or spathe, probing for nectar. The tongue opens, pollen is released on to the bird's feet and feathers, from where it is transferred to the swollen stigma of another flower.
Gardeners who fancy a similar challenge to Brian's can buy a packet of 10 seeds of Strelitzia reginae for £2.55 from Mr Fothergill's.
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A member of staff at one of the UK’s leading nurseries in Hereford has raised £287.43 for a hospice in the area by growing a moustache.
 Geoff Godsall, who has worked at Wyevale Nurseries for 29 years and is currently a Trading Foreman, grew a moustache for a month to fundraise for St Michael’s Hospice in Bartestree.
Geoff, who is 63-years-old and lives in Hereford, said: “I am delighted to have raised £287.43 for the hospice. I would like to thank all the people who sponsored me via my Just Giving page or who dropped their loose change into my collection bucket.
“I choose to support St Michael’s Hospice as it is a wonderful local charity, which offers a fantastic service to the community during particularly hard times. Both the hospice and Macmillan Nurses have helped my friends and family in the past.”
St Michael’s Hospice looks after people age of 18 and above with progressive life-limiting illnesses at various stages of their journey. It also provides care and support for patients’ families, friends and carers.
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with all the news direct to your e-mail inbox. The best news service every weekend and all the breaking news as it happens.
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Every week GTN receives and analyses epos data from a number of UK garden centres to produce the GTN Bestsellers charts and weekly bestsellers sales tips. The full charts which provide useful insight into product sales peaks, new trends and new link sales opportunities are published in the weekly GTN Xtra printed newsletter.
As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2014 as well as 2015 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period. Access is by subscription only. For £195.00 per year you and your team can have access to the most up-to-date gardening sales analysis that has already helped many UK garden centres increase their sales. To subscribe call 01733 775700, e-mail karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.
Highlights of the GTN Garden Products Bestsellers chart for this week are here
Highlights of the GTN Garden Plants Bestsellers chart for this week are here
Highlights of the GTN Christmas Products Bestsellers chart for this week are here
Highlights of the GTN Growing Media Bestsellers chart for this week are here WARNING the GTN Bestsellers Charts seriously improve the business of our subscribers. Invest 15 minutes each week in improving your sales using the GTN Bestsellers charts and your turnover and customer satisfaction will improve too.
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Get the GTN Bestsellers charts in full every week in the GTN Bestsellers newsletters delivered via the post for only £195.00.
GTN Bestsellers is the only industry source of weekly garden centre sales information, collating Epos data from centres with an aggregate turnover in excess of £120m.
Use the weekly Garden Products and Growing Media Top 50 sales volumes charts to plan your hotspot and other promotions and ensure you have the right products in stock to satisfy the needs of your customers.
For further information contact karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or call 01733 775700.
Buy your subscription today and start receiveing the GTN Bestsellers charts this week.
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