The countdown to the GIMA Awards 2026 is well underway, with record entry numbers and strong demand for tickets confirming this year's event is set to be one of the most successful in the awards' history.
Following the close of entries, GIMA has confirmed a record number of submissions across this year's award categories, whilst bookings for the awards evening itself are also running ahead of last year. With the Early Bird booking deadline now passed and well over half of all available places already reserved, anticipation is continuing to build for what promises to be another unforgettable celebration of industry excellence.
Attention now turns to judging day on 1st July, when an expert panel of leading retailers, buyers, editors and industry specialists will review this year's record-breaking number of entries.
Representing organisations including Blue Diamond Garden Centres, Dobbies Garden Centres, Longacres Garden Centres, Perrywood Garden Centres, The Sun, Garden Trade News and Insight DIY, the panel brings together extensive expertise from across retail, media and ecommerce to determine this year's winners ahead of their unveiling at the prestigious Celtic Manor Resort on 12th November.
Supplier of the Year deadline extended
Alongside the product, marketing and business awards, GIMA has confirmed that the deadline for entries into the prestigious Supplier of the Year Award has been extended until 14th August.
The revised date aligns with the Export Achievement Award and provides suppliers with additional time to submit entries for one of the industry's most respected accolades, recognising exceptional service, innovation, partnership and support delivered to the garden retail sector.
GIMA Awards - Sponsorship opportunities
With attendance already tracking ahead of previous years, the awards continue to offer one of the most effective opportunities for brands to raise their profile amongst key retailers, buyers and industry influencers.
A limited number of sponsorship opportunities remain available across a range of categories and event touchpoints, from individual award sponsorship through to high-profile opportunities around the drinks reception, host sponsorship and other elements of the evening.
Martin Ward, GIMA Director, said: "The response to this year's awards has been exceptional, with record entries and strong table sales demonstrating the value businesses continue to place on the GIMA Awards. The calibre of entries continues to rise year after year, making judging day one of the most anticipated dates in the awards calendar. We're looking forward to celebrating the people, products and businesses that continue to drive our industry forward.
"With attendance already tracking ahead of previous years, the awards also present a fantastic opportunity for brands looking to increase their visibility within the sector, and we would encourage businesses interested in sponsorship to explore the opportunities that remain available."
Seed Corn Fund seeks the next generation of innovators
Whilst the GIMA Awards celebrate the very best of today's established brands, products and businesses, the GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund continues to focus on the future of the industry, with applications already being received from early-stage businesses looking to accelerate their route to market.
Designed to help bring fresh thinking, new products and innovative ideas into the garden retail marketplace, the Seed Corn Fund provides qualifying first-time Glee exhibitors with an invaluable platform to gain industry exposure, retail introductions and commercial support at a crucial stage in their development.
Previous winners include 2025 recipient SealStop, as well as POTR, GERMIE, Natural Grower, Qwickhose, PotMate™, Bloomin' Amazing and Vivagreen - businesses that have all benefited from the visibility, support and industry connections provided through the programme. Their success highlights the role the Seed Corn Fund continues to play in uncovering fresh talent, supporting innovation and helping promising new brands accelerate their journey into the garden retail marketplace.
To learn more about the GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund and submit an application, visit: https://gima.org.uk/innovators-seed-corn-fund/
Don't miss the industry's biggest night
With record entries received, judging day fast approaching and table bookings already well ahead of previous years, all signs point towards another standout GIMA Awards. Businesses wishing to attend are encouraged to secure their places now to avoid disappointment.
For further information regarding sponsorship opportunities, awards attendance or the GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund, visit www.gima.org.uk.
