The GIMA Annual General Meeting saw the association welcome new members and re-elect others, whilst also celebrating another year of growth, standing the organisation in good stead as it navigates 2025 and beyond.

Sarah Hill, Managing Director of Meadow View Stone and Nigel Thompson from Sipcam Home & Garden joined the Council as full members, while votes from members confirmed the re-election of Jenny Douthwaite from Primeur.

Capi’s Kate Ebbens, re-elected for a second consecutive term as GIMA President, addressed attendees, expressing her thanks for their input, passion, and dedication. “I want to thank all the nominees for stepping forward to join the Council, especially Jenny, Nigel, and Sarah – congratulations! Your enthusiasm and commitment to supporting the association will be invaluable.

“I am honoured to have been nominated for a second year, and I’m excited to share my objectives for the year ahead. My focus will be on ensuring that all members and associates fully understand the benefits GIMA offers, while encouraging greater participation across the board. I also plan to help members build stronger connections with retailers, particularly in light of the economic challenges we face. Alongside Vicky and the team, I’m committed to fostering the continued growth of the association with the ongoing support of our Council members. Above all, I will continue to champion the five key pillars of GIMA: saving, connecting, promoting, representing, and supporting.”

During the AGM, GIMA Treasurer, DLF’s Guy Jenkins, provided an update on the association’s financial standing, reporting a small profit for 2024. He attributed this positive financial performance to the continued success of the GIMA Awards, as well as the continued growth of GIMA membership. “I am pleased to confirm that GIMA remains in a strong position,” said Guy. “The team has worked hard to enhance the association’s value for members and non-members alike, with a full calendar of events and support packages that ensure value for money and tangible benefits.”

Meet the GIMA Council

Working closely with the GIMA team headed up by Vicky Nuttall, GIMA Director, and supported by Tony Kersey as GIMA Membership Ambassador, the full GIMA Council for 2025/2026 will be made up of the following representatives:

• Kate Ebbens of Capi Europe – President
• Craig Hall, Deco-Pak – Vice President
• Guy Jenkins, DLF – Honorary Treasurer
• Mark Butler, Vitax - Honorary Secretary
• Jenny Douthwaite, Primeur
• Chris Ramsden, Hozelock
• Sarah Hill – Meadow View Stone
• Dan Durston, Durston Garden Products
• David Nicholson, Elho
• Edd Cantle, Gardena
• Simon Davison, Zest Outdoor Living
• Nigel Thompson, Sipcam Home & Garden

Find out more

Membership of GIMA is open to all manufacturers and suppliers of products to the garden retail sector, with a UK or EU base.

For further information about GIMA and the benefits membership brings, visit www.gima.org.uk or contact the GIMA office on 01959 564947 or email info@gima.org.uk