Choice Marketing Group, the largest independent buying group of independent garden centres, has signed a new two-year deal with Gardman for the provision of wild bird care, hanging garden and core gardening products. Previously, it was supplied by Solus, whose brands were recently bought by Scotts.

Gardman’s ‘growth from the ground up’ campaign of offering its retail partners complete range solutions that include premium higher value products designed to encourage consumers to trade up, was key in the decision making process.

“We wanted to build a long term relationship with a strong, stable partner that has strength and depth in its product categories and is able to work collaboratively with us to increase sales,” explained Tony Blake,  Chairman of the Choice Marketing Sundries Forum . 

“We believe Gardman is the right partner for us.  Throughout the tender process they worked hard to understand the detail of our business and put together solutions, including full category ranges supported with great in-store merchandising that will help our members increase sales.”

Speaking about the value of the contract to Gardman, Chief Executive Stewart Hainsworth said: “We are delighted to have secured this strategic contract.  It validates our strategy of combining great quality products at reasonable prices in our core product areas with marketing investment to develop unique brands to enhance consumer choice.”

Gardman’s wild bird care range includes the premium brand The Ernest Charles Co., which has a unique heritage market proposition.  British made and proven guaranteed quality gives retailers all they need to trade consumers up boosting sales and profits. 

Gardman’s hanging garden range includes the Blacksmith brand of premium, high quality hanging baskets, mangers and planters that are forged from wrought iron and built to last. 

Gardman also provides a complete category solution for lighting products that spans entry level price points to the premium Cole & Bright brand that offers bright ideas for nights outside.