Dobbies Garden Centres Limited (“Dobbies”) has today initiated a restructuring plan (RP) to address historically uneconomical rent costs and ensure a return to sustainable profitability. 

The RP, and other strategic initiatives, are expected to return Dobbies to sustainable profitability through site rationalisations, rent reductions and other tangible cost savings – securing its long-term future and allowing access to future investment.

The RP includes the closure of 11 unprofitable sites, and 6 unprofitable little dobbies sites, and impacts 465 colleagues, of which 82 are full-time (out of a total ~3,600 overall). Dobbies will also be working with landlords to seek temporary rent reductions at a further nine sites.

While the process is ongoing, all sites will continue to operate as normal.

There will be no impact to suppliers.

Subject to the RP being successfully approved, we expect the affected sites to cease trading by the end of the year. Thereafter, Dobbies will operate 60 stores and continue to play a key role in the market, working constructively with stakeholders and suppliers, and having an active and committed role in the communities in which it’s based.

The proposed store closures are:

Altrincham

Antrim

Gloucester

Gosforth

Harlestone Heath

Huntingdon

Inverness

King’s Lynn

Pennine

Reading

Stratford-upon-Avon

Cheltenham (little dobbies)

Chiswick (little dobbies)

Clifton (little dobbies)

Richmond (little dobbies)

Stockbridge (little dobbies)

Westbourne Grove (little dobbies)

A great British company founded in 1917, Barrus is proud to have achieved over 100 years in business.  Barrus operates across three diverse market sectors Marine, Garden and Industrial and is one of the UK’s leading importers and distributors of engines, engine-powered equipment, garden tools and accessories.

The Garden Tools and Accessories Division offers an extensive range of quality garden hand tools, accessories and powered products from the well-respected brands of WOLF-Garten, Wilkinson Sword and Town & Country.

Barrus are currently looking for a Merchandiser (based in Central England) to service their garden centres, specialist machinery outlets and many national and independent retailers.

The Role:

Responsibilities to include effective placement of visual display stands and materials in garden centres and specialist machinery outlets, assistance in setting up and manning of events and trade shows, stock and materials budget control, and excellent customer service to drive through sales.

The successful candidate will ideally have experience of the Garden Centre and Retail trades, be self-motivated, able to work on their own and as part of a team, have excellent customer service skills and the ability to represent the Company professionally to all.  A full driving licence is essential as a Company vehicle will be provided.  Candidates will ideally be based in Central England, covering central and northern territories, therefore some overnight stays may be required.  Full product training will be provided.

A competitive package will be offered to the right candidate.

To find out more about Barrus please visit www.barrus.co.uk

Please apply enclosing your full CV to: Recruitment, E.P. Barrus Ltd, Glen Way, Launton Road, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX26 4UR or email: recruitment@barrus.co.uk

The Horticultural Trades Association has announced the appointment of Will Armitage as its new President, following the Annual General Meeting held at Horticulture: The Conference on 25 September 2024.

Will Armitage takes over from Alan Down, who successfully completed his term and now assumes the role of Immediate Past President. Jane Lawler has been named Vice President.

In addition, two new directors are joining the HTA Board, Mark Pitman Managing Director of Wildlife World and Mike Burks Managing Director of The Gardens Group. Both bring a wealth of diverse experience and expertise that will significantly contribute to the ongoing success and innovation within the association.

Will Armitage said: "I was honoured to be asked to become President of the HTA. As a member for many years both through Armitage's Garden Centres and latterly through "Mulch" we have benefitted so much from the networking opportunities, business improvement schemes, gift vouchers, training and of course the excellent political lobbying the HTA does so well. I saw this as an opportunity to give back to the association that has given us so much and my pledge to the members will be to endeavour to leave the association in just as good a position as it is now, if not better. I would also just like to take this opportunity to thank the members for voting me in and to everyone at the HTA for making my past 2 years as Vice President so interesting and rewarding."

Jane Lawler, who has assumed the role of Vice President, commented: “It’s been a journey of discovery as an HTA Board member over the past few years, and I’ve learnt a great deal about the critical work the association does on behalf of members. I’m very pleased to now be given the opportunity to take an even more active role and I am looking forward to working with the rest of the team to continue that work. I’m especially keen to help all members explore the wide benefits of being part of HTA and understand how to get the best value from membership”

Will Armitage began his horticultural career in the 1980s at his family's garden shop in Huddersfield. After earning a diploma from Sparsholt College, he worked in Scotland and New Zealand before starting full-time at Barton Grange’s Woodford Garden Centre in 1996. He later became managing director of Armitage's Garden Centres, leading its growth until its sale in 2015. In 2020, he co-founded the Mulch brand, later transitioning it to a larger company. In 2022, he joined the HTA board and was appointed vice president. Since 2015, Will has also focused on coaching and consulting within the horticultural and agricultural sectors.

The Horticultural Trades Association has awarded Mike Burks, Managing Director of The Gardens Group, the prestigious 2024 Pearson Memorial Medal. Mike has been at the forefront of environmental work in the garden industry and has been recognised for his outstanding contributions and leadership in the sector. 

Will Armitage, HTA President, said: “Mike's contribution to the industry is incredible; not only is he part of The Gardens Group, which operates three garden centres in the Southwest that are some of the best examples of horticultural retail in the country, we believe, along with the support of his wife Louise, he has won the GCA Christmas merchandising prize more than any other retailer. 

"He continues to be an articulate spokesperson for industry issues, and his involvement in the ongoing conversation around the future of peat serves as a key example. He has the ability to consider and communicate both sides of the debate thoughtfully.

"Mike's tenacity and drive have proved invaluable to the industry.  During the Covid pandemic, Mike worked alongside and with the HTA in a relentless drive to reopen garden centres, arguably saving the industry.”

Mike Burks, Pearson Memorial Medal winner, said: “This is slightly overwhelming really. We’ve done lots of work with great people towards a common cause, and in so many ways, we’ve managed to come together, ensuring the HTA and GCA are aligned on all these projects. None of this would have been possible without the support of my team at the Gardens Group, and particularly my wife Louise, who allowed me to get away this afternoon to be here.”

The HTA has awarded the Pearson Memorial Medal for outstanding service to the garden industry annually since it was instigated in 1930 in memory of the HTA's first General Secretary, Charles Pearson. The 2023 medal was awarded to Stan Green, with previous recipients in recent years including Jim Buttress, Mark Gregory and Adam Wigglesworth.

Mike Burks is Managing Director of the Gardens Group, a former Garden Centre Association chairman, and a passionate advocate of eco-friendly gardening practices. Mike and his wife Louise have spent the past three decades running three multi-award-winning garden centres, three restaurants and a farm shop in Dorset and Somerset after graduating with an honours degree in Horticulture from the University of Bath. Community and wildlife protection are very much at the heart of The Gardens Group, alongside gardening and horticulture, so Mike and his knowledgeable team remain committed to hosting and organising regular events to support local charities and initiatives while encouraging more people to embrace gardening.  

For more information, please visit: https://hta.org.uk/events/pearson-memorial-medal

The Horticultural Trades Association celebrated its 125th anniversary at its annual Conference. The association, which started in 1899, has grown into a vital force, supporting a sector that contributes £28 billion to the UK economy and sustains over 674,000 jobs. This year, in the opening speech from its Chief Executive, Fran Barnes, the HTA calls for stronger government support to further increase the sector’s GDP footprint to £41 billion by 2030.  

The speech, delivered in Birmingham to HTA members and key stakeholders, reflected on the rich history of its membership and the importance of the industry’s progression over the next century. Fran highlighted the industry’s essential role in meeting the UK's legally binding Net Zero targets, reaffirming, “The country can’t achieve Net Zero without environmental horticulture, and it can’t do it without you.”

The HTA has been at the forefront of advocating for horticulture in times of crisis, from securing essential worker status during World War I to leading the campaign that reopened garden centres during the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, the HTA continues to fight for industry resilience, lobbying the new government for reduced financial burdens on SMEs, a just peat-free transition, and streamlined cross-border trade systems.

Fran Barnes, HTA Chief Executive, said: “When the HTA was first created, it was to deliver against three main aims: to present a united voice for our industry, to hold conferences, and to provide networking opportunities. Little did those who founded the HTA realise the additional vital importance this organisation would play over the last century and a quarter. 

“The HTA can’t control the volatile weather we’re currently seeing across Europe or control global political change.  But we can, and we do, lobby for - and champion - this sector for the conditions that enable you to weather those storms and build resilience into your businesses.    

“It has been an incredibly tough year.  The erratic weather, the cost of doing business, living wage hikes, a challenged labour market, import rule changes, and planning delays all add costs – whether time or money – that should be spent growing your business.

“Our focus now is that the new government understands the pressures you face, understands the critical importance of this sector in delivering their missions and understands the necessity of helping, not hindering our growth.    

“Every member I’ve spoken to has the same simple request of certainty, which has been in short supply over the last few years.  We have written to the new Chancellor ahead of the budget with clear asks to deliver certainty and confidence. We need a trade and border system that works, as the situation since April 30th has been wholly unacceptable and has not helped biosecurity either – the whole point of the inspection regime. We’ve asked for an urgent government roundtable to get this sorted once and for all.   

“The HTA team and I promise our continuing, unwavering commitment to helping you navigate all the challenges we face. Whether in business, planning, infrastructure, or access to essential resources like plant protection and growing media. With the right support and a collective effort, we can meet these challenges head-on and deliver growth.  We’re a supportive sector with strong bonds of friendship and a shared ambition to leave our businesses and the planet in a better place.” 

Fran also referenced several new initiatives aimed at fostering growth and collaboration across the industry, including:

• A series of regional events to inspire innovation and strengthen networking among growers, retailers, landscapers, and manufacturers.
• Enhanced Business Improvement Schemes to help growers and retailers navigate challenges.
• More online Town Halls and technical workshops to offer tailored support. 

As the HTA looks forward to the future, Fran Barnes called for collective effort, saying: “The trees and plants we are growing today, and the green landscapes we are creating and cultivating may be here long after us, in another 125 years. We want to make sure they tell a positive story of our actions.”

‘Horticulture, The Conference 2024’ is the biggest conference for the sector. It has a full agenda of panels, keynote speeches, and networking opportunities to celebrate the horticultural sector's instrumental role in shaping a sustainable and greener future, ensuring that it thrives for generations to come.

Glee 2024 has wrapped up with a bang, celebrating 50 incredible years as the UK’s number one garden and outdoor living trade event.

With buzzing aisles, inspiring new products, and a palpable sense of optimism, Glee 2024 proved once again why it’s the beating heart of this flourishing industry.

The move to a September event has clearly struck the right chord, with industry leaders hailing the timing as a game-changer for the buying cycle. Attendee numbers were up year-on-year, with an increased presence of owner/operators, category buyers and buying teams, buying groups and retailers eager to place orders, and discover the latest trends - fuelled by an infectious atmosphere of discovery and opportunity. One marked change was the number of ‘new’ visitors to Glee, demonstrative of the perceived value of gardening from not just the garden centre market but from the wider retail landscape. As gardening thrives, more retailers are looking to benefit from this profit opportunity, with the likes of Dunelm, Robert Dyas, John Lewis, B&Q, QVC joining Blue Diamond, British Garden Centres, Dobbies, Hilliers, Tillington, Choice and dozens more garden centres in the quest to source new supply partners.

Looking ahead, Glee 2025 is already generating excitement about the 2025 season.  A staggering 60% of the 2025 floorplan was snapped up during the show, with equates to 77% of 2024 floorspace – a significant increase of 40% when compared to 2023 data – racing to secure their spot for what promises to be another unmissable year. Many of the event’s bellwether brands led the charge, setting the stage for Glee 2025 to build on this year’s remarkable momentum.

Glee Event Director, Matthew Mein captured the excitement perfectly, saying: “From the second we cut the ribbon to officially open the show, the energy was electric. One exhibitor summarised it perfectly by saying ‘the buzz is well and truly back in the aisles’, and that is all due to the enthusiasm and willingness of our visitors and exhibitors. Glee has become the ultimate platform for growth and innovation, opening dialogue on those opportunities and challenges shaping our industry, and this September this role felt more relevant than ever. The passion and optimism that filled the aisles and exhibition stands, and a bulging floorplan for the 2025 show, marks an exciting tipping point for both Glee and the wider garden retail sector.”

Celebrating garden retail

With hundreds of new and returning brands in the spotlight, Glee 2024 was a true celebration of all things garden, home, leisure, and lifestyle. Innovation was everywhere, and buyers responded in kind, placing substantial orders and fuelling an atmosphere of growth and excitement.

Sponsors from both within and beyond the gardening sector added to the excitement, underscoring the growing reach and impact of the garden retail industry, including big names brands such as eBay, Shark Ninja, plus Gardena, The AMES Companies and Westland. The sponsorship mix reflected the diversity and strength of a sector that continues to grow across omnichannel platforms, as well as within the realms of traditional bricks-and-mortar trading.

A key feature of Glee 2024’s success was the support of top trade associations, including the HTA, GCA, Gardenex, and GIMA. GIMA’s ‘Meet the Buyer’ events were a huge highlight, with over 150 sessions fostering valuable new retail partnerships that will shape the future of the sector.

Charitable highlight

The final day of Glee saw a heartwarming display of solidarity and generosity, as the Floral Thursday fundraising initiative took centre stage. In partnership with the Greenfingers Charity, the garden retail community raised over £3,000 to help the charity create even more therapeutic gardens at children’s hospices across the country, with visitors donning floral shirts, dresses, and suits in every colour imaginable. It was a fitting end to a show that was not only about business but also about giving back.

As the countdown to 2025 begins, all eyes are on Glee to continue leading the charge in garden retail innovation. The 2025 event will be marked with a new hall layout – halls 8-12 – that will provide more opportunity for expansion. The date for diaries is Tuesday 16th-Thursday 18th September.

Find out more

Glee connects the garden industry to inspire change, drive growth, and promote innovation. To find out more or to register your interest in exhibiting please visit www.gleebirmingham.com or call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

Kate Leach, formally Woodmansterne’s Head of Marketing, has said goodbye to the greeting card publisher and turned her creative side-hustle into a full-time job. Leaving on a high at Glee 24, she told GTN Xtra a little about business and plans to stay connected with her beloved garden industry.

Kate’s brand, Essoldo Design, a lockdown project that’s grown into a fully-fledged business, has gone from strength to strength. With a community of over 180K followers, Kate now sells artwork in over 35 countries worldwide and has licensing designs for products across the UK, Europe, and the USA.

Her debut fabric collection, Ebb & Flow by US company Windham Fabrics, has sold over 100,000 yards worldwide, and her first book, Creative Abstract Watercolours published by David & Charles in March, is now available in six languages and is currently number one on Amazon’s watercolour painting techniques bestsellers chart. Buoyed by these successes, along with her popular workshops and international art retreats, Kate has now taken the tough decision to leave a job she loves to fulfil a dream of running her own business.

But Kate hopes to keep connected with garden retailing. Her designs now feature on a range of Woodmansterne cards, and she is keen to talk to garden centres who may be interested in hosting creative workshops. 

“I still have a ‘pinch me’ moment when I walk into my local garden centre and see my Woodmansterne card range being browsed by customers. I don’t think it’s a feeling I’ll ever get bored of!” said Kate. “I’d love to start working with garden centres to offer footfall-driving creative workshops, especially with floral and botanical themes being favourites topic of mine!”

Anyone wishing to get in touch can contact Kate via her website www.essoldodesign.com

More than 340 pet brands exhibiting in four halls over three days have created the biggest-ever PATS in the show’s 15-year history.

The Pet & Aquatics Trade Show is taking place at the Telford International Centre in Shropshire from Sunday (29th September) until Tuesday (1st October). 

It is the only event in the UK where buyers from specialist pet stores and garden centres can view all the latest product launches under one roof.

As well as meeting up with a long list of PATS regulars, visitors will be greeted by a host of new faces and new products. A growing number of companies are choosing to exhibit for the first time as they see PATS as the perfect place to announce their future plans. 

With the addition of an Aquatics Zone and a bigger New Starter Zone, this year’s exhibition will cover the whole of the Telford International Centre.

PATS is the ideal venue for visiting retailers to discover what’s new in the market and an ideal opportunity to talk to manufacturers and suppliers. 

The New Product Showcase will again be a popular feature of the show as it gives visitors the chance to see and touch the new products they will be stocking for the coming season. 

Entries to the Showcase will be judged by a panel of retailers for the New Product Awards on the first morning of the show, so the results will be known and highlighted throughout the four halls for the rest of the exhibition. 

As well as seeing a huge array of new pet products and speaking to the key suppliers and manufacturers, visitors will also be able to witness demonstrations from the country’s leading dog groomers.

To help make the visitor experience even more enjoyable and rewarding, PATS offers free show entry, free parking for up to 1,300 cars, a free catalogue and many special exhibitor deals.

There will also be a wide range of food available, and visitors will receive a complimentary cup of tea or coffee.

With good catering facilities and plenty of seating areas taken care of, visitors can concentrate fully on the main business of the day – seeing top-class products from the biggest range of suppliers and manufacturers…all under one roof.

A full and up-to-date list of exhibitors is available on the website www.patshow.co.uk together with information on how to reach the venue and regularly updated show news.

Opening times

Sunday, 29^th September 2024: 9.30am-5.00pm 

Monday, 30^th September 2024: 9.30am-5.00pm

Tuesday, 1^st October 2024: 9.30am-4.00pm

The Horticultural Trades Association has revealed the winners of the 2024 HTA Grower of the Year Awards at Horticulture, The Conference, held at the International Convention Centre, Birmingham.

Twelve awards were presented across six categories, celebrating outstanding achievements in the horticultural industry. Among the top winners were Majestic Trees, which took home the Blooming Marvellous Employer and Life Beyond Peat awards; David Austin Roses and Double H Nurseries jointly won the Plant Producer award, while Provender Nurseries won the Inspirational Businessaward.

Notable individuals were also recognised, including Henil Vashi from Robin Tacchi Plants Ltd, who won Young Grower Under 35, and Richard Pavey from Majestic Trees, who received the Best Staff Member award.

Pippa Greenwood, Horticulture Manager at the HTA, praised the high standard of entries, commenting: “Another brilliant year for The HTA Grower of the Year Awards and for horticulture: Both the number and the standard of entries this year were higher than ever before, and the judges faced a really challenging task when selecting winners. These awards showcase the outstanding quality, service, and innovation of UK nurseries, along with their commitment to inspiration and furthering UK horticulture's positive environmental impact. It is wonderful to see the next generation of horticultural talent being celebrated, as this will ensure our phenomenal industry continues to thrive.”

Full List of Winners and Highly Commended:

Blooming Marvellous Employer – Majestic Trees (Winner)

Inspirational Business – Provender Nurseries (Winner); The Horti House, Double H Nurseries Ltd (Highly Commended)

Life Beyond Peat – Majestic Trees (Winner); David Austin Roses (Highly Commended)

Young Grower Under 35 – Henil Vashi, Robin Tacchi Plants Ltd (Winner); Ellen Underwood, Majestic Trees (Highly Commended)

Best Staff Member – Richard Pavey, Majestic Trees (Winner); Eleanor Radley-Moore, RJ Trees and Hedging Ltd (Highly Commended)

Plant Producer – David Austin Roses and Double H Nurseries (joint Winners); Wyevale Nurseries Limited (Highly Commended)

Home, garden and lifestyle communications agency, Honest Communications, has unveiled its 2025 Trends Report to help brands and journalists keep abreast of the big trends set to make waves next year.  

The specialist agency has tapped into its industry expertise to collate and share exclusive insight with readers, predicting that dopamine décor, climate-forward thinking, the comeback of topiary, cottagecore, forest gardening, the latest in smart technology, and designing for the senses, will be big in 2025. 

The edition features contributions from leading industry voices such as award-winning garden designer Melanie Hick, internationally acclaimed interior designer Lex Pott, leading window dressing specialist Hillarys, topiary influencer Andy the Hedge Barber, expert growers from leading nursery Hillier Garden Centres and more. 

Available to read and download online, the publication is packed full of fresh insights to help brands power up their marketing activity, while giving journalists a sneak peek at the trends set to make headlines in 2025.

For readers looking for inspiration for their own homes and gardens, the report features practical tips on how to create spaces that are not only beautiful, but also sustainable, resilient, and mood-boosting.

Holly Daulby, managing director of Honest Communications, commented: “We’re really excited to share our second Home and Garden Trends Report, which provides readers with a first look at some of the biggest trends set to make waves in 2025.  

“We had amazing feedback when we launched our first Trends Report last year and have been working hard over the previous months on our 2025 guide. 

“This year, we were keen to expand and evolve the publication, so we decided to call upon our connections in the home and garden world and are excited to include exclusive insights and advice from some of the leading voices in the industry. 

“We hope our Trends Report will help inform our clients’ marketing plans and give brands in the sector a sneak peek into our predictions for the year ahead, as well as provide journalists with some top tips to share with their readers!”  

The specialist PR and social media agency, which was founded by managing director Holly Daulby in 2018, represents a host of well-known brands in the home and garden sector, including elho, Wilkinson Sword, Town and Country, Henchman, Ark Wildlife, Oxenwood, Seedball and more.   

The Honest Communications Home and Garden Trends Report 2025 is available to read online here and via the Honest Communications website. 

Wyevale Nurseries will be showcasing its ‘Best of British’ range when it exhibits at FutureScape in London next month (October 15-16). 

The leading commercial nurseries’ stand will highlight its container trees, bareroot hedging and forestry transplants, which are all perfect for landscape architects, commercial landscapers and garden designers seeking British-grown stock.

Dan Maskew, Amenity Sales Executive at Hereford-based Wyevale Nurseries, says: “Myself and my fellow Amenity Sales Executive, Alan Young, will be on Stand Q28 and we’ll be shining a spotlight on our native, Best of British, range for anyone in the amenity industry keen to find out more.

“The trees we’ll be highlighting include Pinus sylvestris RBSR, Quercus robur, Betula pubescens, Castanea sativa, Corylus avellana, Liriodendron tulipifera, Pyrus communis Beech Hill and Pyrus Elaeagnifolia Silver Sails.

“We’ll also be showcasing some ornamental trees too, some of which aren’t native, and promoting our 36-litre pot range.” 

FutureScape is the UK’s largest landscape expo and trade event. It includes seminars, live debates and a variety of exhibitors.

Dan adds: “It’s brilliant to be exhibiting once again at FutureScape at ExCeL in London. It has become a core part of our amenity events calendar. Our customers, new and old, like to see, touch and smell the plants that we’re able to provide them for their projects in person. They like to ask us for our advice and help too and we always have some great chats at the show.”

Wyevale Nurseries’ product selection is admired across the industry and the talented team regularly introduces new, award-winning plant varieties.

Its main business is to supply garden centres, landscape contractors, local authorities, foresters and landowners with a comprehensive array of trees, shrubs, hedging, herbaceous and specimen plants.

For further details about Wyevale Nurseries, which will be on Stand Q28 at FutureScape on October 15 and 16, please call 01432 845 200 or visit www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk.

Carol and James Titcomb, who run Da Barn in Hillswick, the UK’s most northerly ornamental plant nursery, have celebrated the opening of Da Potting Shed, their indoor retail plant shop on the island’s town of Lerwick.

A mix of houseplants, growing essentials, garden accessories and local art and crafts, it adjoins the neighbouring yard which they have been renting and retailing plants from for about a year. The chance to buy the former hairdressers building and the yard means Carol and James can now forge ahead and grow their retailing enterprise.

To stock the shop, the Titcomb’s made the 1500-mile round trip to Glee, where they sourced products from companies including Tilnar Art and Greenman Garden Tools. They also picked up an electric van for the nursery which it shares with several other local community enterprises.

On the nursery, Carol told GTN she carefully chooses her stock list of plants best suited to the Shetland weather. Around 90% is produced from seeds or cuttings to ensure plants are grown as hard as possible to give customers the best displays during the short summer which is usually mid-May to mid-September. Favourites on Shetland are Livingstone daisy, lupin and foxgloves, but Carol’s list of around 500 different plants means there is still much for gardeners to choose from. 

Not surprisingly, gardening can be difficult on the island with it not uncommon for all four seasons of weather to be experienced in one day. Surprisingly instances of snow and frost on the nursery are only occasional but it’s the strong, salt-ladened winds and low light levels which are the most challenging.  Since the nursery opened seven years ago James has learnt much about tunnel construction and he now adapts them with solid doors and strengthening cross struts and he covers metal hoops in plastic feeding tubes recycled from the fish farming.

Recycling is an important part of the nursery. Bread trays are used as supports for plant benches at the nursery (and soon at Da Potting Shed), and an aquaponic irrigation system is being trialled. Customers are also incentivised with a refund to bring back plant pots.

The nursery is open to the public and Da Barn plants are also sold wholesale to a number of shops across the mainland and some of the surrounding islands. 

Da Potting Shed on Fort Road, Lerwick is currently open Tuesday to Saturday 11am-5pm

www.dabarn.co.uk

01806 202212

Webb Eco – the new cordless garden machinery range from British garden brand Webb – has several new additions to its range to help customers tackle Autumn garden tasks.

Launched earlier this year, Webb Eco garden machinery is powered by long-lasting, interchangeable 20v Lithium-ion battery technology for a more sustainable and effortless gardening experience.  New additions to the range are cordless blowers, a long reach hedge trimmer and pruning saw.

Ideal for moving fallen leaves into a single pile with minimum effort, the Webb Eco Cordless Axial Blower comes in two versions, with blow speeds of 100mph and 160mph.  The 20V 4Ah battery provides up to 19 minutes of runtime, supported by a reliable brushed motor.

The Webb Eco Cordless Long Reach Hedge Trimmer is an ideal tool for medium to large gardens, featuring a 50cm cutting length for efficient and precise hedge trimming. Operating at a cutting speed of 1300 SPM x2, it cuts through the foliage, ensuring a neat finish. The extension pole offers extended reach and adjustability, eliminating the need for additional tools or ladders to access higher or distant hedges comfortably. The 20V 2Ah battery provides up to 40 minutes of cordless operation.

Pruning can be a major task in Autumn, but the Webb Eco 20V Cordless Pruning Saw makes the job much quicker and easier.  The saw features a 15cm bar length, 4.9m/s chain speed, 0.03 inches chain gauge, and 3/8” chain pitch, ensuring precise and efficient pruning.  With a tool adjustment system for easy chain tension adjustments and a 20V 2Ah battery providing up to 40 minutes of runtime, it quickly cuts through branches, catering to various pruning needs.  The saw is available with a telescopic extension pole to provide extended reach from 100cm to 215cm.

For added value, the Webb Eco hedge trimmer and pruning saw with extension pole are also available in a single pack.

Designed for optimal performance with a super-fast battery recharge, the new Webb Eco cordless garden machinery range provides an eco-friendly and cost-efficient alternative to traditional petrol options. Quiet to use and cordless in design, the new range offers complete freedom with no power cables to get in the way or hold you up. Furthermore, as all tools within the range have been designed to be used with the same, easily interchangeable 20v battery, valuable savings can be achieved in running costs.  The Lithium-ion batteries hold their charge and don’t degrade in storage, which is an important consideration for choosing garden tools which may not be used daily.

These latest additions to the Webb Eco garden machinery range join the existing products of lawnmowers (including the Webb Eco cordless rotary lawnmower which was awarded BBC Gardeners’ World magazine 2024 Best Buy status), line trimmers, pruners and tillers.

To discover more on the Webb Eco range and to purchase direct at trade pricing, please go to www.handys.co.uk or visit www.webbgardenpower.co.uk

A great British company founded in 1917, Barrus is proud to have achieved over 100 years in business.  Barrus operates across three diverse market sectors Marine, Garden and Industrial and is one of the UK’s leading importers and distributors of engines, engine-powered equipment, garden tools and accessories.

The Garden Tools and Accessories Division offers an extensive range of quality garden hand tools, accessories and powered products from the well-respected brands of WOLF-Garten, Wilkinson Sword and Town & Country.

Barrus are currently looking for a Merchandiser (based in Central England) to service their garden centres, specialist machinery outlets and many national and independent retailers.

The Role:

Responsibilities to include effective placement of visual display stands and materials in garden centres and specialist machinery outlets, assistance in setting up and manning of events and trade shows, stock and materials budget control, and excellent customer service to drive through sales.

The successful candidate will ideally have experience of the Garden Centre and Retail trades, be self-motivated, able to work on their own and as part of a team, have excellent customer service skills and the ability to represent the Company professionally to all.  A full driving licence is essential as a Company vehicle will be provided.  Candidates will ideally be based in Central England, covering central and northern territories, therefore some overnight stays may be required.  Full product training will be provided.

A competitive package will be offered to the right candidate.

To find out more about Barrus please visit www.barrus.co.uk

Please apply enclosing your full CV to: Recruitment, E.P. Barrus Ltd, Glen Way, Launton Road, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX26 4UR or email: recruitment@barrus.co.uk

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Claudia Maurer is taking over the position of Director of spoga+gafa as of 1 November 2024. She succeeds Stefan Lohrberg.

Claudia Maurer disposes of more than 15 years' experience in executive positions in global trade fair and project management. She is an expert in the sections Exhibitions, Conferences and Corporate Events and holds the title Certified Exhibition Management Professional. Maurer began her professional career at GE Healthcare and then at the Frankfurt Exhibition Centre, where she experienced the diversity of the trade fair and event business after holding various positions.

The 47-year-old has lived in the USA for the past 15 years, where she gained relevant project management experience on both the trade fair organiser side as well as at agency and partner level. Most recently as Marketing Communications Event Consultant, Pharma and Personal Care, at Ecolab, a leading global supplier of technologies and services in the sections Water, Hygiene and Energy. In this role she was responsible for the more than 75 events a year the company participated in.

"We are delighted to welcome Claudia Maurer, an experienced expert, to our team. With her 360-degree overview of the sections Trade Fairs, Events, Communications and Internationality she brings valuable perspectives and experience with her. This will assist us in continuing to further develop spoga+gafa successfully in the future too," said Sebastian Rosito, Vice President Trade Fair Management.

"I am looking forward to this new, exciting challenge and to implementing my many years of expertise in trade fair and project management. Together with the team I will further strengthen spoga+gafa's position as the largest garden and BBQ trade fair in the world and set new impulses for the exhibitors and visitors," Claudia Maurer stated.

The City of Chengdu, China, was named the Grand Winner of the competition from among the seven category winners who were announced at a dedicated Awards ceremony at the Future Green City World Congress. 

The City of Chengdu, China, was presented the highest accolade of the competition, taking home the title of Grand Winner for their inspiring initiative, titled the “Urban Green Heart Programme.” This groundbreaking initiative, which covers an area of 1,275 square kilometres, aims to transform the Longquan Mountain, the future heart of Chengdu City, into a world-class green space set to become the largest urban forest park in the world. The goal is not only to provide residents with a more liveable natural environment, but also to better protect plant and animal habitats, enhance biodiversity, and create a thriving urban area in which nature is at the core.

The Grand Winner was selected from among the seven category winners who were announced and presented trophies as follows:

Living Green for Biodiversity and Urban Ecosystem Restoration
Urban Green Heart Programme - City of Chengdu, China

Living Green for Climate Change
Mandera Municipality’s Greening Programme - Mandera Municipality, Kenya

Living Green for Health and Wellbeing
Green and Healthy Environments Program (PAVS) - City of São Paulo, Brazil

Living Green for Water
Climate Change Strategy - City of Joondalup, Australia

Living Green for Social Cohesion and Inclusive Communities
ResiLab BioSocial, Huerto Roma Verde - Mexico City, Mexico

Living Green for Urban Infrastructure and Liveability
SPIRE - Smart Post-Industrial Regenerative Ecosystem - City of Baia Mare, Romania

Living Green for Urban Agriculture and Food Systems
Curitiba's Urban Agriculture - City of Curitiba, Brazil

Perrywood Garden Centres has today announced the purchase of Buckhatch Nursery & Garden Centre, located near Chelmsford in Essex. Perrywood now has three garden centres in Essex and Suffolk, with a combined turnover of more than £18m.  

Simon Bourne, Perrywood Retail Director, says, “Buckhatch meets all our requirements, including location and buildings.  It is already a good quality garden centre. We can’t wait to work with the team to take it forward and add some Perrywood magic.” 

Buckhatch Nursery & Garden Centre was bought from Lynda and Barrie Mortlock, siblings who own Ingatestone Saddlery, one of the largest equestrian and country stores in Europe. Lynda and Barrie bought Buckhatch in 2014. 

Lynda Mortlock, co-owner of Ingatestone Saddlery, said: “We are delighted that Perrywood is taking on Buckhatch. We’ve put in a lot of hard work over the last ten years, but we know there is more Perrywood can achieve moving forward. We’ve loved working with the wonderful team at Buckhatch. They, and all our customers, are in good hands. We wish them well.” 

It will continue to trade as Buckhatch Nursery & Garden Centre until it relaunches as Perrywood Buckhatch ahead of the 2025 Spring season.

Pictured above: Perrywood Directors taking on Buckhatch from previous owners. From left Alan Bourne, Simon Bourne, Barrie Mortlock, Lynda Mortlock, Hannah Powell and Tristan Bourne.

Quinton Edwards acted for the vendors. WWW.QUINTONEDWARDS.CO.UK 

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co has announced that Sturmer Nurseries in Essex has been sold to industry newcomers.

Located on the Essex-Suffolk border, the family-run plant nursery has been under the same ownership for two generations. The business features a contemporary garden centre and café building, as well as a large plant area and children’s play area.

The business was brought to the market as existing owners Robert and Samantha Mason looked to retire. Robert comments, “We would like to thank all our customers and suppliers over the past 42 years and wish Andrea and Flaviu every success in taking the business forward. We are delighted the business is staying as an independent, family-run enterprise.”

Sturmer Nurseries has been bought by Angela and Flaviu Andrea, who have extensive experience in the early years and wellbeing sectors.

Angela comments, “We aim to maintain the family-friendly atmosphere while rejuvenating the garden with a fresh nurturing approach. The vision being to engage all ages, including the youngest, in discovering the magic of gardening, aiming to transform the garden centre into a place offering not just a wide variety of plants but also a renewed sense of well-being.

“We plan to introduce interactive workshops, seasonal events, and educational programs that cater to both novice and experienced gardeners. Our hope is to create a vibrant community hub where everyone can share their passion for gardening and learn from one another.

“In addition, we are committed to sustainability and will focus on eco-friendly practices, such as promoting native plants, reducing waste, and encouraging organic gardening methods. We believe that by nurturing our environment, we can cultivate a healthier and more beautiful world for future generations. Together, let's grow, learn, and flourish.”

Tom Glanvill, Director at Christie & Co comments, “The garden centre industry provides an outstanding contribution to the national economy and fantastically diverse businesses that offer both retail and hospitality all on one site and are a great day out for the whole family. Sturmer Nurseries is another in the growing list of garden centres that have attracted entrepreneurs from other business sectors to come and run their own garden centre - indeed more than half of all the garden centres that we have sold in recent years have gone to buyers who have never owned a garden centre before.

“I would like to extend my congratulations to the new owners and look forward to seeing the new initiatives that they plan to introduce.”

In a year of continuing trading challenge with geopolitical instability, rising interest rates, consumer spending restraint and supply cost pressures, Notcutts saw both sales and profit up during the year. Annual turnover increased by 4.1% to £78.6m with operating profit up at £1.6m. 

Commenting on these results, Nick Burrows, Chief Executive said “We continue to provide a strong offering that our customers rate favourably – as shown in our highest ever customer satisfaction scores in the year measured through NPS. Trading has begun to rebound, and we believe it will continue to do so as economic conditions improve”

Nick Burrows added “We have continued with our programme to develop our garden centre portfolio in order to support the ongoing prospects of the business. This has included the completion of our project to restore the historic Edwardian Messenger glasshouses at our Dukeries garden centre near Worksop; the expansion of our restaurant capacities in Oxford, Tunbridge Wells, Wheatcroft (Nottingham) and Norwich; and a solar power installation in Woodbridge. We have also made significant investments in our IT infrastructure with new retail, stock management and CRM systems during the year which will bring exciting new efficiencies and opportunities for our business.”

Caroline Notcutt, Vice Chairman highlighted the importance that Notcutts places on creating the right culture in which colleagues can succeed and enjoy their roles. “We were really encouraged to win the award for Best Employer in the East of England in retail and hospitality during the year. Part of the assessment of our organisation for this award was an in-depth survey conducted by the adjudicators amongst colleagues in a number of our garden centres.”

Caroline Notcutt added: “I am also delighted that our well-established approach to succession planning is bearing fruit with key senior operational leadership roles having been filled by our own internal candidates. We offer a range of training, coaching and personal development support to colleagues at all levels in Notcutts and it’s great that this can lead to genuine career openings and progression within our organisation”

Bridget McIntyre, Chairman explained that “Notcutts garden centres and support office have continued to work closely with our local communities supporting various charities and schools. We are into the third year of our charitable partnership with The Green Light Trust, whose mission is to ensure everyone has equitable access to the power of nature. They work with people of all ages, who are often more disadvantaged members of our communities, through organised outdoor activities in woodlands and green spaces. Alongside this each of our garden centres has developed partnerships with local charities and community groups – we see this as an important part of the role we play in each of our locations around the UK.”

Commenting on Notcutts environmental strategy, Nick Burrows said “We continue to have a clear policy and set of goals with biodiversity, sustainability and the environment key pillars of our ongoing strategy. Two years ago, we set a goal to reduce our carbon emissions by 15% by the end of 2023/24 and it is pleasing to see that we have been able to exceed this goal in this period. What’s more, in doing this we received a high commendation award from Planet Mark for the manner in which we have engaged colleagues throughout the organisation to help achieve this. We now have Sustainability Champions in every one of our garden centres.”

Nick Burrows added “As we continue to pursue our biodiversity goals, we have now introduced new wildlife gardens in all our garden centres for customers and colleagues to enjoy and where animals, birds and insects can thrive. In addition, with further rainwater harvesting investments – now in eight garden centres - we have capacity to harvest 190,000 litres of rainwater through these installations”

For more information visit www.notcutts.co.uk.

The latest Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) Market Update for September 2024 reveals garden centre sales were +8% (vs. Aug 23), and garden category sales were +7% (vs. Aug 23).

This uplift will provide a welcome springboard for autumn gardening categories such as bulbs in the coming months.

Non-gardening categories, such as catering, continue to perform strongly, underlining the strengths of garden centres as destinations.

Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, commented: "With the weather constantly proving a challenge for our retailers, it’s encouraging to see gardening categories continuing to improve year on year. The strong August sales performance gives confidence and reassurance that consumer demand for gardening remains strong, with subdued sales months driven by the weather rather than any fundamental changes in consumer attitudes to gardening, gardens, or garden centres.

"In part, this consumer confidence is supported by continued wage growth relative to inflation in the cost of goods. Pay growth was 5.1%, which exceeded inflation and boosts – which means the pound in the consumer’s pocket, to some extent, is going further than a year ago. The industry continues to face cost pressures due to trade and labour, and even though global shipping costs fell substantially in August, they remain high compared to a year ago.

Our report shows the resilience of garden centres and their strength as community destinations, which we expect to see grow especially in the autumn months and before Christmas, although this doesn’t take away from how difficult 2024 has been for our retailers.”

For further details on the August 2024 market performance, please refer to the full HTA Market Update report, which is available to HTA members on our website.

The wonderful impact of the spring Front Garden Facelifts meant that ITV’s This Morning had swathes of deserving applicants from across the country hoping to have their front gardens transformed by David Domoney and his team of volunteers. During the spring makeovers, David was keen to involve garden centre teams. Two of the makeovers have involved local garden centres from the Blue Diamond Garden Centres group, and one with the help of British Garden Centres, plus many other wonderful volunteers working to give deserving This Morning viewers the front gardens they deserve.

David Domoney, who has been campaigning for the revival of front gardens for over a decade, has this time come in live from Corby, and his volunteers from Blue Diamond Garden Centre’s Beckworth Emporium and students from Moulton College have taken up the makeover mantle once again and worked tirelessly to revamp this front garden within just 2 hours.

Ben Shepherd and Cat Deeley introduced David and his volunteers at 10 a.m. when they knocked on Rebecca Carey's door.

Rebecca has Multiple Sclerosis and was hospitalized for 2 months over Christmas last year after a fall down her stairs in November. During this stay in hospital, scans revealed that she had a diagnosis of early-onset dementia at the age of 51. Each of these diagnoses has resulted in Rebecca having to give up work, and using their front living room as her bedroom, which looks out onto her front garden.

In the UK, it is estimated that over 150,000 people are living with MS, and nearly 7,100 people are diagnosed with the condition annually. This includes 1 in every 450 people in England alone. One of the largest impacts those living with MS have found is that they felt increased loneliness and isolation as a result of their condition, the numbers being as high as 3 in 5 of those living with MS. 

Early, working-age, or young-onset dementia is a prevalent condition in the UK, with over 70,800 people in the UK living with the early condition. This is classified as someone developing dementia before reaching the age of 65. Early-onset dementia is less likely to have memory loss as the first identified symptom and can also experience problems with mobility and coordination.

Spending time outdoors has long been proven to be a great benefit to mental and physical health. The sensory stimulation provided by the colourful plants, oxygen and clean air, sounds of pollinators visiting your plants, and the invigorating scents from all your different plants can all benefit your mental and physical well-being, particularly for those with limited mobility due to conditions such as MS. Plus, engaging with the garden and outdoor space is proven to boost mood, build new memories, and spark conversation with people living with dementia.

Before

After proving how much of a positive impact a revitalized front garden can have, David wants to motivate Brits to give their front gardens some love. David said, “When you’re coming home from either a long day at work, a busy trip, or even a visit to the shops, your front garden is the first part of your house that you see. By taking even a little time to add a couple of colourful plants to your home, your front garden space becomes an even more inviting space to greet you and boost your mood.”

After

Susan Titmuss, Head of Marketing and Communications at Moulton College added, “We were delighted to be able to contribute to creating a wonderful garden for Becky. It was an invaluable experience for our team of Royal Horticulture Society (RHS) part-time students led by their lecturer, Annette, and they all rose to the challenge for a very worthy cause."

“Transforming a garden within this time limit is hard work, but extremely rewarding,” continued David. “Thanks to the help of the students from Moulton College, Beckworth Emporium from the Blue Diamond Garden Centre group, Ames Tools, Tiller’s Turf, The Palm Tree Company, Emmitt Tool Hire, The Fun Blue Plaque Company and Hippo Waste, we were able to produce a cheerful and invigorating haven for a deserving This Morning viewer. Rebecca has had a challenging year, but we hope this garden will give her a revitalising space to enjoy from both indoors and outdoors.”

Eventually, David and his volunteers’ two hours were up, and it was time to show Rebecca her Mamma-Mia-inspired Front Garden Facelift. David took her on a guided tour, and she was emotional to see all the wonderful colours to enjoy. She looked forward to spending time sitting outside to take in all the vibrancy and cheer and take the opportunity to socialise with visiting neighbours. And the garden wasn’t the only surprise; David and This Morning also surprised Rebecca and 3 guests to go to the Mamma Mia party to celebrate her recent birthday too. The final touch once again was one of the very special Front Garden Facelift blue plaques.

 “It was wonderful to see this garden makeover come together, and I’m so grateful to all the volunteers from within the horticulture community for taking the time to help. And it was so fun to work within a theme; I hope Rebecca enjoys the summery Mamma Mia atmosphere we have been able to put together for her,” David concluded.

After the success of all of the front garden makeovers so far, This Morning is planning for David Domoney to do more Front Garden Facelifts as part of the show.

See David and the team in action on this fantastic makeover on the This Morning website: https://bit.ly/3Xu3xJB

Thank you to all of our wonderful customers, partners, suppliers and friends for making the Corby + Fellas User Group Event such a huge success

Thanks to all of the 160 people who attended and enjoyed a great occasion, superbly marshalled by Boyd Douglas Davies, with brilliant insights provided by Dave Denny, Vanessa Cranford, Mark Ellis, Leigh Quinn and completed by a fascinating look at the art of the possible by Bob Marley - thanks to all of you, brilliantly organised by our Kim Corby and Rachel Craynor at Sprowston Manor - see you again in 2026!

Please see some snippets of feed back below

“Thank you for your warm hospitality and for organising such an informative event. It was certainly a valuable experience for us.”

“Just sending over my gratitude for the invite to your event this week, I thought it was fantastic!”

“Hi Kim, thanks for Wednesday. The best conference yet.”

“Thank you for the invite last week, please consider us for the next one!”

“I wanted to extend my thanks to Kim,  Alan, and the team for organising such a fantastic event”

“I just thought I’d say a big THANK YOU for sorting and organising yesterday. I thought it was really useful, the speakers were really good, not too heavy.”

“I’m so proud to be part of the extended C&F family. Thank you for a fantastic day.” 

“Amazing day - thanks very much”

“A really great day! Lots of great contacts made, thanks to all the Corby + Fellas team for putting together!”

“Just like to say thanks to you and the team for putting on a really good event”

“Thanks again for last week, a very beneficial day.”

https://www.corbyfellas.com/

GTN September 2024 - In this Bumper Glee Preview issue: Westland Glee Preview Special, Successful integration at AMES, GTN interviews CEO Paul North UK, GCA Regional Results, winners from the 2024 inspections, Derian House, a new Greenfingers Children’s Hospice Sensory garden, GTN’s Glee 2024 Show preview starts here, Glee floor plan and exhibitor list, What’s on in the Glee sectors, Glee Exhibitor News – Latest products and services, Fandango Fire Tools at Glee, Under one roof at The AMES Companies UK, Floral Thursday FUNdraising at Glee, Eyes on the gift-wrapping market with Woodmansterne, Tildenet – a partner of choice, Landmark year for Hozelock, For that perfect lawn – Johnsons Lawn Seed, GTN Planteria - Floral Fantasia and Mr Fothergill’s trials, GTN Planteria – Ball helps retailers sell more plants, Join the Vitavia family, PATS 2024, LOFA Viewpoint – SOLEX 2024 a resounding success, New lines from Museums & Galleries, HTA Viewpoint – For a stronger future, GIMA Viewpoint – See you in person soon.