Grosvenor (above) and Brambridge Park (below) were announced as Blue Diamond garden Centres of the Year at the Blue Diamond Awards evening held in Leicester last night.

The 1920's themed event, with around 700 attendees from across the garden centre group and key suppliers, was held at the Athena in Leicester, a restored art-deco cinema.

See GTN Xtra's photo gallery from the evening and look out for the full detailed results in this coming weekends edition of GTN Xtra

The Garden Centre Association has announced that the location of its 2024 annual conference will be Cirencester in Gloucestershire.

The GCA’s 57th annual event, organised by Chairman Elect for 2024/25, Will Blake, will be held at the De Vere Cotswold Water Park Hotel near Cirencester from January 28 until 31, 2024.

Will, who is helping organise the conference alongside the organisation’s CEO, Peter Burks, explained: “We are thrilled to reveal our 2024 conference will take place at the De Vere Cotswold Water Park Hotel and we are currently working hard to make sure it is bigger and better than ever, with a top quality line-up of speakers and plenty of opportunities to catch up with friends, colleagues and associates from the industry in person.”

Set among the honey-coloured villages and gently rolling hills of the Cotswolds, the De Vere Cotswold Water Park is in the heart of 152 lakes that spread across the unique Cotswolds Water Park.

Peter Burks, GCA CEO, said: “During the conference, we’ll be officially welcoming our new Chairman, Will Blake, who will be taking over the reins from Tammy Woodhouse. He will be integral in the planning of the conference this year with me.

“We will be keeping our members updated throughout the year when we unveil details of our speakers and when booking goes live. In the meantime, they can keep an eye on our Facebook and Twitter pages for the latest news.”

Following last year’s success, Easitill Ltd has signed up once more to exhibit at the Four Oaks Trade Show to be held in Cheshire, 5 & 6 September 2023. 

Easitill’s director Keith Plekker said: “From the fantastic success and record number of visitors to our stand last year, we are delighted to return to Four Oaks again in 2023 for our 20^th year at the show. This year is of particular importance to us as we celebrate our 35^th anniversary of supporting the horticultural industry with EPoS systems, our labelling solution and more recently websites. We are looking forward to meeting lots of businesses for the first time, as well as having the opportunity to talk to our existing customers. We will be showcasing our latest EPoS developments as we continue to develop our robust EPOS and labelling system.”

For more information about the Four Oaks Show visit www.fouroaks-tradeshow.com

Volume sales in January were 15% down on 2022 levels and only 4% up on 2019 according to analysis of GTN Bestsellers weekly garden centre EPOS Data.  However volume garden centre sales in February 2023 were 14% higher than 2022 and 35% higher than 2019.  That meant we reached the end of February only 0.6% down year on year and 20% up on 2019.

January and February garden centre sales are always affected by the weather so using them as an indicator for the rest of the year can be tricky, but the fact sales volumes for the last week on February 2023 were the highest for that week in any of the previous five years does point to the possibility that when the weather is right, garden centres will be busy with customers looking to make an early start with their growing for the season.

With Mother’s Day, Garden Re-Leaf Day and Easter all in quick succession from the middle of March onwards there are plenty of opportunities to drive footfall and sales.

Watch this space for regular GTN Bestsellers updates.

Among the many garden centres organising publicity and fundraising events for Garden Re-Leaf Day, St Peters Garden Centre in Worcester is hosting a staff Quiz and Curry night, for which they would welcome prizes as donations from suppliers.

Laura Matheson from St Peters told GTN Xta: "Here at St Peters Garden Centre in Worcester, we are hosting a Staff Quiz and Curry evening on Thursday 23rd March to raise money for Greenfingers.

"All the staff will be paying to come along as well as buying raffle tickets for a prize draw and a big auction on the night to raise even more money!

"The curry will be provided by our on-site chefs and held here at the centre.

"The prizes have been generously donated from suppliers and people far and wide within the industry ranging from Barbeques and parasols to Jewellery and experience days!

"Greenfingers is an incredible charity and we wanted to do something that all our members of staff could be involved in!

"Thank you to all who have already donated prizes and any further support is always welcome!"

Do let us know about your Garden Re-Leaf Day events so we can pass your ideas on to inspire others to join in and make the most of this great opportunity to give a boost to sales during March. e-mail: trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk

Time might be running away too quickly but there is still time to book your place at the GIMA Day Conference, to be held on Tuesday 14^th March, 10.00 – 16:00 at The Willows Training Centre, Wyboston Lakes, Bedfordshire.

Attendees can look forward to hearing headline talks from Dobbies CEO Graeme Jenkins and British Garden Centres’ PR Communications and Plant Director, Boyd Douglas Davies & Project and Development ManagerAmy Stubbs. They will be joined by Phil Pond from trends agency, Scarlet Opus, who will offer invaluable insight into 2024 trends to help you get ahead of the curve in this rapidly changing socio-economic climate.

Also confirmed to speak at the event are Jack Sweeny of JDS Strategists, who will be discussing The Power of Insight - tomorrow's only competitive advantage - and Tor Newcombe from specialist recruitment business More People will address challenges in the current labour market and how to recruit and retain staff.

With such an excellent speaker line-up this is sure to be a popular event and those who are interested in attending are encouraged to sign up quickly to secure their place. The cost of the event includes a buffet lunch and refreshments:

• The rate for GIMA members is £80 + VAT for the first delegate and £40 + VAT for each additional delegate.
• The non-member rate is £160 + VAT for the first delegate and £80 + VAT for each additional delegate.

For more details visit www.gima.org.uk or contact the GIMA Office on (01959) 564947 or info@gima.org.uk

In this issue:

• Hillier grows – Interview with Chris Francis,
• GCA Conference 2023 – Big, bold, sustainable and £100k raised for Greenfingers,
• GCA Winners – All the winners from the GCA Conference,
• PATS Sandown Show preview,
• BeefEater – LOFA Member profile,
• Beautiful stonework from The Patio Black Spot Company,
• GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards Presentations at Spring Fair,
• Pictures from all The Greatest Christmas Award winning centres: Barton Grange, Rosebourne, The Old Railway Line, Pughs, Gates, Longacres, Gouldings, Alton, Groves, Meadowcroft, Brimsmore and Poundbury, British Garden Centres, Pengelly, Blue Diamond, Klondyke, Gordale, Silverbirch, Woodlands, Little Dobbies, Azure, Stratford    , Chessington, Chacewater, Coolings, Sapcote, Wentworth, Perrywood, Garsons Titchfield, Keydell, The Grange, Tingley, St Peters, Garden King, Fron Goch, Ellerker Lodge, Chepstow, Birkacre, Bennybeg,
• Thank you to the judges and sponsors of The Greatest Christmas Awards 2022,
• Encouraging signs for Spring – HTA Column,
• Cash is king – GIMA Column.

The Horticultural Trades Association has welcomed parts of the deal struck between the UK and EU regarding the Northern Ireland Protocol – stating that ‘real trade can resume again’ for HTA members in Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

The BBC reported that the Prime Minister highlighted the horticulture sector in his remarks to journalists: “We have protected Northern Ireland's place in the Union," he told reporters gathered in Windsor, saying the new deal ensures that the same “quintessentially British” products will once again be available in Northern Ireland. This includes trees and seeds in garden centres.

Significantly details affecting the Environmental Horticulture Sector include:

• The ‘High Risk Plants’ prohibition on 11 key species will be lifted. This means, once EU legislation is passed in the coming months that the likes of cherry, oak, acers, and apple trees can be traded again, into Northern Ireland and the EU.
• The deal will see the removal of the requirement for phytosanitary certificates for all plants traded from Great Britain to Northern Ireland between Professional Operators registered with their relevant Plant Health authority. The industry instead will need to self-certificate the products with a simple proforma label.
• Businesses will need to be authorised annually to do this; this is expected to take place as part of annual Plant Passporting audits.
• There will be no plant health import inspections NI side, only regular DAERA in-field inspections as would have taken place previously.
• However, seed potatoes (currently completely prohibited) will be able to be traded GB-NI but only from grower to grower – direct to consumer and retail packs sourced in Great Britain are excluded for phytosanitary reasons.
• The new rules are expected to be in place in the Autumn, with the high risk plants prohibition being lifted around the same time.

Fran Barnes, CEO of the HTA, commented: “The HTA have been working hard to ensure our GB and NI members can trade again as a matter of urgency; we are pleased that common sense has prevailed in this agreement and much of what we have asked for has been listened to. Unfortunately, much damage has already been done to the trade in plants between Great Britain and Northern Ireland as previously our members could trade freely and there has been significant loss of business. This is something which they will not get back over night. However, we welcome these moves that will increase the freedom to trade for our members so that their businesses can flourish and take advantage of long held supply relationships once again.

“We note that this agreement is likely to take some time to be operational- but we hope it can be introduced smoothly and swiftly. This is an important opportunity for a sector like ours that contributes so much to environmental targets in the UK and Europe.”

Garden centre shoppers find ‘plant quality’ most important, with nearly half (48%) surveyed by music licensing company PPL PRS saying it’s what gets them into a centre, but the atmosphere created by the music playing keeps them inside.

Over four-fifths (82%) of shoppers said they like listening to music when visiting a centre, with 43% of shoppers taking note that their garden centre plays music. Some of the reasons consumers said they enjoy having a soundtrack to their trip were:

• It boosts their mood (51%)
• It entices them to buy more (14%)
• They spend longer in a garden centre when music is playing (10%)

GTN provides the popular Garden Radio service and if you would like to know more about it then email trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk.

PPL PRS sought out to find what entices customers to garden centres in a recent survey asking shoppers what they prioritise when picking a garden centre and what they notice once in one.

Whilst plant quality and location are important, they aren’t aspects garden centres can have full control over. What management does have the power to mould, however, is the atmosphere in a centre. This can be achieved by curating a playlist that fits the centre and the customer base to ensure an atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.

The top five genres that customers enjoy hearing in garden centres are:

• Chill-out (43%)
• Pop (32%)
• Classical (21%)
• Country (12%)

PPL PRS found that more than two in five (41%) shoppers only visit a garden centre a few times a year, with keen gardeners (39%) saying they go to a centre monthly. So, ensuring a memorable experience with a welcoming atmosphere is key to enticing shoppers, and it may even lead to word-of-mouth marketing as customers recommend venues to friends and family.

In a previous survey, PPL PRS found that over two-thirds (67%) of people admitted to having left an establishment because no music was playing - so a subtle change in how atmosphere is created can change a consumer’s thought process. 10% of shoppers in the recent survey said that music makes them want to spend more time in a garden centre.

As shoppers admit that they don’t frequently visit garden centres, capitalising on seasonality can encourage consumers to return along with enticing new visitors. School holidays, for example, are when parents seek to entertain their children, so hosting family-friendly events during summer holidays can bring in more customers.

Creating a fun environment can be done by holding promotions or workshops for those who want to garden but don’t know where to start. This can also showcase customer service teams, as new customers may need more help navigating a centre for their gardening needs.

Ensuring a good experience for customers will have a positive impact on reviews and recommendations – it’s well known that word of mouth marketing can benefit a business. It’s an easy way of making a centre more enticing for other potential shoppers who hear these reviews.

Commenting on the findings, gardening expert for PPL PRS, Mr Plant Geek said: “People flock to garden centres to feel inspired... they might want to refresh their outdoor space through neighbour envy or through feeling ashamed. Either way, once they reach the garden centre, they feel energised and full of optimism, when it comes to creating your dream garden, there's no better place to be.”

Non-traditional categories at garden centres across the country continued to do well in January, according to the Garden Centre Association’s Barometer of Trade report.

Christmas sales were up 227.73%, gifts were up 15.87%, food hall and farm shop sales were up 26.65% and clothing sales were up 32.47% compared to the same month in 2022.

GCA CEO, Peter Burks, explains: “We kicked off 2023 with some positive sales in our non-traditional categories, which is to be expected at this time of year, when there is little gardening to be done.

“The selling off of Christmas stock was great for getting cash into the tills and customers were able to grab themselves a few bargains, and for the fourth month in a row, catering sales were up 21.04%, compared to the same month last year, which was great to see.

“The continued positive trend in catering is especially good news as it confirms our outstanding food offer is driving significant footfall, which the rest of the garden centre can benefit from.”

Houseplant sales were down -3%, outdoor plant sales were down -32.49%, seed and bulb sales were down -20.33% and sales in garden sundries were down -13.52%.

Furniture and barbecue sales were down -18.63%, but pets and aquatic sales were up 2.83%.

Hard landscaping sales were down -34.52%.

Overall sales for the month were up 13.6% with a year-to-date variance of 13.6%.

Wyevale Nurseries in Hereford has supplied more than 100 different projects with trees as part of Gloucestershire County Council’s commitment to plant at least a million trees.

It has supplied trees, transplants and container shrubs as part of the council’s ambition to reach its target by 2030.

Alan Young (right), Sales Executive at Wyevale Nurseries, said: “We first started working with Gloucestershire County Council in the 2021/2022 season, supplying 25 local villages with trees as part of an ‘Ash Dieback’ fund and other planting projects across the county. The project went extremely well and this year it has accelerated, and we are close to supplying more than 100 projects across the county as part of the council’s ambition to plant at least one million trees by 2030 in both rural and urban locations.

“Most corners of Gloucestershire have seen trees and transplants being delivered to private gardens, urban local authorities, village parish councils, farmers, the National Trust, Forestry England, charity organisations, fruit farms, glamping and camping sites.

“We’ve supplied and delivered trees and transplants to the City of Gloucester, to Cheltenham town, deep into the Forest of Dean, around the River Severn and high up on the Cotswold Hills, so the whole county has benefited from newly planted trees supplied by us.

“On the back of supplying the trees, as part of the projects, we have also been supplying tree stakes, tree ties, bamboo canes, spiral guards, tubex tree guards and other sundry items with every tree or transplant supplied. The project is only set to gain pace in the years leading up to 2030 and we’re very excited to be helping out.”

Wyevale Nurseries’ product selection is envied 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.

Cllr David Gray, Cabinet member responsible for environment at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “We are pleased to use a local supplier to help us deliver on our ambition to plant one million trees by 2030.

“We are working on a number of projects to plant trees across the county. Planting trees will play an important role in us working to create a Greener Gloucestershire.”

For further details about Wyevale Nurseries, which is based in Hereford, please call 01432 845 200 or visit www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk.

Jennifer Pheasey, HTA’s Director of Public Affairs, joined parliamentarians and stakeholders as speaker at a dinner of the Industry and Parliament Trust (IPT). The topic of the event was ‘Sustainable SMEs: Building a Better Future’ and was chaired by Selaine Saxby MP, with HTA and the Federation of Small Businesses as speakers.

Jennifer set out the important role of horticulture in delivering UK net-zero and sustainability ambitions, but also some of the challenges and difficulties businesses across the sector face – from investment to skills – and can hold-back progress. The HTA’s own work and member support – in particular its Sustainability Roadmap – were noted as valuable initiatives. The challenges of some environmental regulations, including the need for clarity and certainty on the detail ahead of their introduction was discussed, and was timely given new Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging and Deposit Return Schemes.

Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Public Affairs at HTA, commented: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to represent our sector and set out the invaluable role of environmental horticulture in sustainability and also as a sector itself on the net-zero journey. We know that for many SMEs understanding what action they can take and navigating regulation can be difficult, especially having the resource and capability to implement sustainability measures given other pressures they face. It is critical parliamentarians hear the needs and experience from sectors like ours.”

As part of its 40^th anniversary celebrations Barnsdale Gardens is offering a donation to Greenfingers Charity from sales of Rose ‘Geoff Hamilton’.

The wonderful Rose ‘Geoff Hamilton’ is a blushing beauty of celebration which offers the flower shape and scent of the traditional English rose, but with a modern twist of super duper disease resistance.

The delicate pink flowers are held on stiff stems over a long season and the flowering time is from June to October. ‘Geoff Hamilton’ is best located in a sunny and moisture retentive position where it will grow to a final height and width of 150cm x 120cm.

The Geoff Hamilton rose was introduced by David Austin in 1997, the David Austin team states: “Named in memory of an old friend, this rose is strong-growing with good disease resistance. The flowers are of a warm soft pink and are cupped at first, later becoming rosette-shaped, the outer ring of petals fading to white, providing a most attractive effect. There is an Old Rose fragrance with a hint of apple.”

This rose is now only sold via the Barnsdale Gardens online shop and the Barnsdale team is supporting the Greenfingers Charity this year by offering a 10% donation for each rose sold, which equates to £3 per plant.

Linda Petrons, from Greenfingers, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that this stunning rose will support our work. As Geoff was involved with Greenfingers right from the early days, it’s a wonderful tribute to a special friend.” 

Rose 'Geoff Hamilton' will be available from the online Barnsdale Gardens store from 7th March.

Dobbies is launching its 2023 Helping Your Community Grow campaign. Designed to enhance communities local to its stores, this initiative will see 76 community groups receive gardening product, support and expertise from the Dobbies’ teams.

Now in its 13th year, Helping Your Community Grow has sustainability at its core and encourages people across the country to care for, nurture and protect their green spaces.

Dobbies is calling on local groups that want to help their community space thrive in a sustainable way to get in touch. Whether it's a school allotment project that allows kids to learn about the health and environmental benefits of growing fruit and vegetables; a community garden or space, looking to bring the outside in; or a charity looking to create a sensory garden to encourage everyone outdoors, Dobbies wants to positively impact communities through its love of gardening.

This year, Dobbies will offer advice, gardening products and tools to community groups across Britain to help them transform their space. Dobbies’ award-winning peat-free compost, recycled and recyclable pots, UK-sourced plants, and safer pest control products are among the many products the garden centre will donate.

Graeme Jenkins, CEO of Dobbies said: “Community is at the heart of what we do at Dobbies and we're proud to bring back Helping Your Community Grow for the 13th year.

“Riding for the Disabled Association in Glasgow is just one of the many projects we supported in 2022 and highlights the diversity of the projects we aim to collaborate with. Thank you and well done to the Milngavie team for their excellent work on this project.

“As we’re committed to environmentally-friendly practices, we’re especially interested in hearing from projects with sustainability at their core. As always, our teams will share their expertise in products and practices to ensure an eco-friendly approach.”

Lynda McKeeman, Yard Manager at Riding for the Disabled Association Glasgow, was thankful for the support.

She said: “Dobbies’ support and funding allowed us to create a bright and fragrant sensory trail through the woodland area and out into the pond circuit which has been great for stimulating the senses of the riders and horses.

“We support over 80 people with disabilities and give them the opportunity to learn to ride or spend time with a horse. Our youngest participant is just 2 years old, and our most senior is in their 70s. Many of our attendees have physical disabilities, psychological problems or just need a confidence boost, and horsemanship is a great way to help rehabilitate them.”

Taking part couldn’t be easier and applications are now open. Eligible groups must be located within 20 miles of a Dobbies store or five miles of a little dobbies store. A shortlist of community groups for each store will be made and Dobbies will call on members of the public to vote for their favourite project. Based on the public vote, there will be one winner per store, with the project receiving the most votes securing the national winner title. They will receive additional funding and support.

In addition to Helping Your Community Grow, there will be further opportunities for community groups looking for support, with small grants available from their nearest Dobbies or little dobbies store.

For more information about how to take part in Dobbies’ Helping Your Community Grow campaign, visit Helping Your Community Grow | Dobbies Garden Centres

A month after His Majesty the King visited Barcham Trees near Ely, Cambridgeshire, on 3 March, Barcham Trees welcomed the South Cambridgeshire MP, Lucy Frazer to the site.

The visit was organised by the HTA and provided Ms Frazer with an opportunity to receive an update on the value that this and other UK horticultural businesses bring to the environment, communities and the economy.

The MP toured Barcham’s potting barn and young tree production area and was also able to see where His Majesty had initiated the planting of a newly forming arboretum. HTA discussed some of the key challenges and opportunities for the sector – from the costs of doing business to transitioning from peat to recognition of the value of environmental horticulture.

Lucy Frazer MP commented: “I really enjoyed my visit to Barcham Trees to find out more about their role in the local community. Their business is not just a great local employer, but is also playing an important part in boosting the environment too. Seeing and learning about the range of beautiful trees they have, was a real inspiration and demonstrated why they are such a success.”

Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Public Affairs at HTA commented: “This visit was a chance to see first-hand the critical and valuable role the environmental horticulture industry plays in the UK and the exciting businesses which are creating jobs, mitigating climate change and boosting health. Being able to discuss the challenges and opportunities with Lucy Frazer MP was extremely timely.”

Warren Holmes-Chatfield, Director of Operations at Barcham Trees commented: “It was great to have our local MP visit the business, and see the changes we have made in recent years. We value the relationship with our local community and our customers – and are proud to have been developing and growing our business in a sustainable way. Barcham Trees is the largest tree container nursery in the UK, and we are committed to sound environmental management of the business, as is reflected by the nature of the business.”

The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales has announced a new collaboration with social enterprise, Life at No.27, founded by Annabelle Padwick, to help it scale up its mission to create therapy allotments and gardens that will provide mental health support for communities across South Wales.

To mark the announcement, Their Royal Highnesses visited the site today where the first garden will be developed at Brynawel Rehabilitation Centre, near the town of Pontyclun. The project will form the second in a series of ‘community impact’ pilots from The Royal Foundation, designed to leave a lasting legacy in the communities Their Royal Highnesses visit.

The new garden at the Brynawel Rehabilitation Centre will follow the format of existing Life at No.27 therapy gardens in Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire and now South Wales, and include a collection of allotments where individuals can have their own space to learn and grow their own produce. This will sit alongside a communal sensory and herbal garden, a mud kitchen and an interactive learning space. The Royal Foundation has convened national and local organisations to support the design and build, as well as provide funding, tools, plants, seeds and materials for landscaping.

The allotments and garden are being developed over the coming months and will offer free and lowcost gardening therapy and mental health support sessions for the Centre’s service users and their families. In time, residents from the local and wider community who are experiencing mental ill health, low confidence or isolation will also have access to the garden through GP referrals.

Amanda Berry OBE, Chief Executive Officer of The Royal Foundation said: “Their Royal Highnesses are passionate about creating a lasting impact in the communities they visit, playing an instrumental role in bringing together local stakeholders to amplify the work of

organisations, and ensure support reaches those who need it most.

“We are absolutely delighted that the visit to Brynawel Rehabilitation Centre and collaboration with social enterprise, Life at No.27 will mark the second in a series of community impact pilots from The Royal Foundation.

“Their Royal Highnesses continue to prioritise our society’s mental health and spending time in nature is known to have a range of benefits, including reducing depression and anxiety. We are really pleased to be working with Life at No.27 and supporting its mission to help communities across South Wales.”

Annabelle Padwick, Founder, Life at No.27, said: “It’s an honour to have the support and partnership of The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales with Life at No.27. As the founder I have seen first-hand how working with therapy gardens can dramatically improve self-belief and your own mental health.

“Our unique therapy allotments and gardens are vital as they offer a safe environment for those experiencing mental ill health, to process and explore difficult experiences with trained therapists whilst at the same time learning new skills. We are also able to offer children and adults therapeutic opportunities to grow in confidence, resilience and self-belief, whilst experiencing positive human connection, contact with nature, sensory play and restorative conversation.

“Working with The Prince and Princess of Wales is so important as their support enables us to collaboratively raise awareness of the work we do, the growing vital need that we aim to meet and how much the experiences and relationships we have can shape our future."

Darren, Volunteer and former client, Life at No.27, said: “My experiences at Brynawel changed my life and were the best things that happened to me. The help and support I received was really helpful, and gave me the chance to come back as a volunteer. Being able to use the garden as a form of therapy has played a big part in improving my mental health which is why I can’t wait for the new allotments and therapy garden to be developed.” 

In time, Life at No.27 aims to scale this model to create six gardens across South Wales thanks to funds raised via Crowdfunder. To support this, The Royal Foundation are working with Crowdfunder to galvanise additional funds for the garden at Brynawel and for future gardens for Life at No.27.

Annabelle and her team are looking to work with businesses across the gardening industry to support the initiative either through donations or the provision of materials to bring the new site to life, to support the therapy sessions and activity sessions that will be on offer and to become part of this amazing collaboration between Life at No27 and The Royal Foundation.

To find out more visit the Crowdfunding page https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/lifeatno27-brynawel-house-therapy-garden or contact Annabelle directly at https://lifeatno27.com/contact/ to discuss ways your business can help.

The team at Tong Garden Centre is celebrating after winning a regional sustainability award.

Sustainability Lead, Steph Bates and Head of People and  Culture, Neil Barwise-Carr were presented with the Sustainability Award at the FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards in Yorkshire and The Humber on 24th February.

Organised by the business campaigner, FSB (Federation of Small Businesses), the awards celebrate the achievements and contributions of small businesses and the self-employed across the UK.

"We are delighted and proud to win the Sustainability award. The team has worked tirelessly to embed sustainable principles in all our garden centres and this award is well-deserved.

"We have exciting plans for 2023 that include partnering with the Carbon Literacy Project to educate our team, and this is a great springboard to launch our initiatives," said Tong Garden Centre's Head of People and Culture, Neil Barwise-Carr.

The winners were announced at a lunch at the Queens Hotel in Leeds that was hosted by BBC broadcaster, newsreader and producer, Elly Fiorentini.

Tong Garden Centre beat Wakefield's Tunley Engineering, Skipton-based Comply Direct, Scarborough-based Sea Grown and York-based ecups Limited and the win has secured them a place in the UK final later that takes place at the NEC in May.

Tong Garden Centre occupies a 19-acre site in Tong village. It is one of Yorkshire's biggest independent garden centres with 11,600m2 of retail space and parking for up to 700 cars. It is part of the Yorkshire Garden Centres (YGC) group that also owns Tingley Garden Centre and the former Stephen H Smith's Garden Centres in Otley and Harden, Bingley.

Over 400 members of the garden press and media made their way to the Garden Press Event on 21 February, for a one-day exhibition showcasing the entire supply chain of the environmental horticulture industry, organised by the Horticultural Trades Association and Garden Industry Manufacturers Association.

The event, held at the Business Design Centre in London, culminated in the announcement of the winners of two awards: the Bob Maker Memorial Award for Best Stand Display and the Best New Product Award. Both awards were voted on throughout the day by the visiting press, and entrants donated to Greenfingers Charity to be considered for an award.

Blue Diamond & National Trust took home the prize for ‘Best Stand Display’, and Wool Pots won the award for ‘Best New Product’.

Also, in a first for the sector, the HTA hosted members of the House of Lords special inquiry committee into horticulture at the event. During its visit to the show, the group saw nearly 100 exhibitors including growers, retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers in an early opportunity for them to see the breadth and diversity of UK horticulture.

Lord Redesdale, who Chaired the visit and was joined by Baroness Willis and Lord Carter, commented: “Visiting the event was an eye opener to see the success of the horticulture industry and understand the challenges UK businesses are facing, such as trade.

“The Lords committee will be launching an inquiry into the future of horticulture with a focus on technology and climate and we will be taking evidence from the industry. Speaking directly to many HTA members today was really helpful.”

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HTA CEO Fran Barnes said: “The Garden Press Event was full of energy with an incredible showcase of so much innovation in horticulture. Many congratulations to our award winners, and we were delighted to welcome the House of Lords Committee and Lord Taylor of Holbeach who know our industry so well. We have so much to offer in terms of tackling climate change and future technology, and we look forward to working with the committee.”

GIMA Director Vicky Nutall said: “The Garden Press Event is a unique opportunity for our industry to showcase their products, meet members of the press and discuss the issues of the day. The hall was packed, and it was great to see so many businesses networking. We hope this was a successful and enjoyable event for all those who attended the show.”

Launched in autumn 2022, T&M’s expert-led plant identification service, PlantIdentity, lets you find out exactly what those mystery plants are!

Coming into the new season, plants will be bursting into bloom, so more and more T&M customers can use PlantIdentity to find out what plant it is that they’ve spotted and how best to care for it.

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T&M’s experts will make an accurate plant identification before emailing you the result. They’ll also tell you if it’s available to buy on T&M’s website and send you a link, so you can buy it.

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Simply log in to your T&M account and purchase your PlantIdentity tokens – each plant identification requires one PlantIdentity token and tokens cost £2.50 for five.

To start identifying your most puzzling plants, simply take a photo and upload it, and T&M’s experts will email you the results – typically within 2 working days.

How to access PlantIdentity

In addition to desktop access, T&M Gardening app and mobile users can upload photos directly to PlantIdentity via their phone's camera – it really couldn’t be easier.

Find out more at https://www.thompson-morgan.com/plantidentity.cfm

Hillier Garden Centres has announced the introduction of four new additions to its nurseries in 2023, some of which will be exclusive to Hillier Garden Centres.

This year’s selection is a beautiful mixture of flowering and foliage plants suitable for garden beds and planters and includes:  

• Erysimum ‘Colour Vibe’ collection,  
• Lavandula x intermedia ‘Exceptional’ 
• Cordyline ‘Magic Star’ 
• Dicentra ‘Amore Titanium’ 

All four plants will launch at the BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair (28-30 April, Beaulieu, Hampshire), where Hillier are headline Fair partner. Visitors will see be able to see the plants in situ, incorporated into the Hillier Experience garden feature, and buy them from Hillier’s retail area, situated alongside the garden.

The Erysimum ‘Colour Vibe’ collections are available in red and orange and are the first two colours to be exclusively launched by Hillier this year. Chosen for their bright hues and large flowers, these hardy plants are a statement piece, perfect for garden beds and patio planters. Erysimum bloom from March to early summer and can be grown in either full sun or light shade.

Developed at Hillier Nurseries, and exclusively launched this spring, Lavandula x intermedia ‘Exceptional’ is an easy-to-grow, drought-resistant plant with wonderful silver foliage and a rich aroma that attracts a range of pollinators. Ideal for low hedges, mixed borders or patio containers, this unique hybrid is a hardy plant, that holds its silver foliage making it attractive all winter long.

Its prolific flowering and strong upright stems bearing pure white flowers complement Echinacea and Alliums which add colour and height.

Launched for the first time in the UK, the unusual Cordyline ‘Magic Star’ is a simple-to-grow, drought-tolerant foliage plant selected for its striking green and pink colouration. Bringing an exotic feel to any garden. The ‘Magic Star’ is an excellent feature plant, bringing an architectural feel to any mixed patio container. Planted alongside Dahlias and Crocosmia, the dramatic ‘Magic Star’ can create a bold and fiery display in the garden.

Dicentra ‘Amore Titanium’ is another plant that Hillier is launching this spring. Integrating well into many different types of gardens, its attractive blue-silver foliage is an ideal complement to other plantings, attracting bees and butterflies with its unique repeating flowering period. Flowering from May through to October, the Dicentra can be planted in partial shade, creating a colourful display throughout the summer and autumn.

“We are thrilled to be launching our new range of plants this spring. We’ve been developing these for a long time – there are some really unique plants in our 2023 line-up and I can’t wait for people to see them,” comments Charles Carr, Head of Wholesale Nurseries. “There is a wonderful mix of flowering and foliage plants, perfect for adding colour and texture to a whole host of gardens this spring. We will officially be launching these new plants at the BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair in April, where they will feature in the Secret Garden inspired garden that Hillier is creating at the fair”.

All of the new plants will be available to purchase in a 2L pot. Retail prices for the plants are;

• Erysimum Colour Vibe Orange - £12.99
• Erysimum Colour Vibe Red - £12.99
• Lavandular intermedia Exceptional - £11.99
• Cordyline australis Magic Star - £19.99
• Dicentra Amore Titanium - £12.99

All new Hillier plants will be available exclusively at all 22 Hillier Garden Centres and online shop from Spring 2023. For more plants and seasonal gardening advice visit www.hillier.co.uk

Join friends and colleagues from across the horticulture industry on Thursday 4^th May at Core Bar in the heart of the City, for an evening of fun and fundraising for Perennial.

It’s the perfect way to make new contacts as well as catch up with established ones in a fun and informal atmosphere. The ticket price of £30 includes a glass of bubbles on arrival and some delicious nibbles, plus the chance to win some amazing prizes in the Party for Perennial raffle. 

All proceeds from ticket sales and the raffle help Perennial support people in horticulture. The Charity’s primary purpose is to build better futures for all those working with plants, trees, flowers and grass. Providing free confidential support, advice and information through their dedicated team based around the country.

Anita Bates, Perennial’s Director of Marketing and Fundraising comments: “Our annual party has become a not-to-be-missed date in the diary. It’s a fun evening spent with friends and colleagues and a great way to help us support more people in horticulture. Over the last couple of years we’ve launched a range of new tools to help everyone at any stage of life, including a Health and Wellbeing app and a Financial Management Tool.  People can also access free physiotherapy, legal advice and support to find employment. It’s only through growing our partnerships with businesses and organisations across the industry that we can reach more people so everyone in the industry can benefit from our free, confidential support, advice and information. Tickets are on sale now so visit our website to book your place; put the date in your diary and join us!”

Party for Perennial 2023

Venue: Core, Aldermary House, 10-15 Queen Street Bank, EC4N 1TX

Date: Thursday 4^th May2023

Time: 7pm - 11:30pm

Ticket price: £30 (including a glass of fizz on arrival and light bites)

For more information and to book tickets visit:

www.perennial.org.uk/party

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The European DIY Retail Association and Global Home Improvement Network has elected Thierry Garnier, the CEO of Kingfisher, as President of EDRA/GHIN. Erwin van Osta, owner and CEO of the Belgian DIY store chain Hubo, has been voted to take the position of Deputy Speaker of the Board.

Thierry Garnier, who joined Kingfisher in September 2019, is an experienced, international retailer having spent 20 years in senior roles at Carrefour. During his time at Kingfisher, he has driven the development of the retailer’s digital and omnichannel capabilities, accelerated the Group’s responsible business and sustainability agenda; and, continued to develop and expand its banners’ store portfolio, including the recent opening of Screwfix stores in France.

Kingfisher plc is an international home improvement company with over 1,500 stores, supported by a team of 80,000 colleagues. Listed in the UK, it operates in eight countries across Europe under retail banners including B&Q, Castorama, Brico Dépôt, Screwfix, TradePoint and Koçtaş.

Commenting on his appointment, Thierry Garnier said: “EDRA/ GHIN is a great international network, bringing together home improvement retailers from all over the world. I am honoured to have the opportunity to represent this fantastic industry, which plays a unique role in helping our customers improve their homes and their lives. From supporting people to make their homes more energy efficient, to developing the skills needed for the future, our sector can make a huge difference on some of the biggest challenges our societies face. We share a common passion about the positive difference we can make and EDRA/GHIN will continue to support our global industry as it keeps growing.”

Thierry has a Master’s Degrees in Engineering from École Polytechnique, Paris, and from École des Mines de Paris. He began his career with the French Civil Service before pursuing his passion for retail. In 2016, Thierry was awarded the Chevalier de l’Ordre National de la Légion d’Honneur (France). He has been a member of the EDRA/GHIN Board since 2019.

Garden Centre Association conference speaker and serial entrepreneur Caspar Craven has shared further insight on achieving ‘big bold goals’ with members in the form of a guest blog.

The former Chief Finance Officer and adventurer spoke at the GCA Conference in January (2023) and has expanded on the points he made on-stage this time via the Association’s website at www.gca.org.uk.

Peter Burks, GCA Chief Executive, said: “It is fantastic to hear more from Caspar after his presentation at our annual conference. We have received lots of feedback from our members about him and how interesting his talk was, so we are very grateful to Caspar for supplying further insight on some of the points he made.

“In the piece, Caspar shares what he believes makes the garden centre sector unique in its culture and mindset, as well as some of the ideas that he covered in his talk – things that he’s gleaned over several years working across a huge range of sectors – leaving members with some actionable suggestions and takeaways.

“The ideas that Caspar covers and that can help our members with growing a business and staff development include:

• Develop the big bold mindset – you can’t navigate a new world with an old chart
• We, not me – the essence of teamwork at work and at home
• Take extreme ownership – navigating emotional black holes
• Be more resilient – self leadership. 

“Caspar’s guest blog is available for our members to read on our website at www.gca.org.uk.”

Caspar has built and led teams in global corporations, start-ups, businesses, struggling businesses and high growth companies.

He’s also a Bloomsbury bestselling author. His most recent book ‘Be More Human – Rethinking the Rules of High-Performance Teamwork’ explains the 20 principles behind achieving his famous big bold goals.

Peter added: “Caspar understands firsthand, the importance of putting people first in order to achieve big bold goals, learnt from both his mistakes and successes along the way, so he definitely knows what he’s talking about!

“This stems from his experience, which spans 30 years, working in a wide variety of environments and with businesses of all sizes, including selling a tech firm for a seven-figure sum, working as a Chief Finance Officer and five years with KMPG.

“He’s also sailed around the world twice! Once as a team leader on a trophy winning yacht in the BT Global Challenge in 2000/1 and then with his wife and three young children, all aged under 10, who circumnavigated the world together in 2014/16.”

Plastics resource efficiency and recycling charity, RECOUP, has opened registrations for its not-to-be missed annual conference, to be held on Thursday 28 September.

The day-long Plastics Resource and Recycling Conference open to all, is once again being held at Kingsgate Conference Centre, Peterborough.  Attendance remains FREE to members, with early-bird discounts available to non-members for a limited time only.  There is also the opportunity to exhibit at the venue, but places are restricted so RECOUP urges early booking.

The plastics resource and recycling value chain event of the year normally sees around 500 delegates in attendance and draws together stakeholders, NGOs, Local and National Government bodies and organisations from across the plastics and wider sustainability value chain, to network and share best practice.

This year REOUP is hosting an Awards & Pre-Conference Networking Dinner for all delegates on the evening of Wednesday 27 September at the Holiday Inn, Peterborough, to network and celebrate with colleagues, ahead of the conference.  

RECOUP is delighted to announce Christopher Smith, Resource Efficiency Leader at Comply Direct Ltd, as the the winner of a free conference ticket, offered as part of a recent RECOUP membership survey.

Rebecca Davis, Membership & Events Manager at RECOUP commented: “Congratulations to Christopher who completed our membership survey, along with many other existing and potential RECOUP members.  We really appreciate your feedback and look forward to seeing you at the conference."

Conference sponsorship packages are available and offer organisations an invaluable opportunity to showcase their products and services in front of the most influential people in the plastics resource and recycling value chain.

At the start of the Campanula season, Addenda growers association has launched a new consumer and business website. 

The new website (www.addenda.com) contains a lot of consumer inspiration such as blogs and DIY videos. Besides the new website, the Campanula labels have also been renewed this season. Addenda is constantly working to minimize its environmental impact and with these new labels it has achieved a 40% material saving compared to the previous label.

The new website is officially up and running. The website is split into a consumer and a business environment. The consumer area contains a lot of inspiring content such as blogs, Do It Yourself videos and care tips. In the business environment, customers can find the latest news on events and novelties, sales support such as tips & tricks for garden centres and retailers, requests for POS materials, online catalogue and the Addenda Media Library.

At the same time as the new website goes live, Addenda is launching sustainable Campanula labels in a new look. To reduce the impact, a material saving of 40% has been achieved compared to the previous label by making the labels single-sided. The Addenda labels are produced from 100% biodegradable material and mounted on a sustainable bamboo stick. Addenda has the processing and packaging work carried out by a sheltered workshop in cooperation with Floramedia. This way, Addenda also tries to contribute to corporate social responsibility.

The new Campanula labels feature a QR code that refers to the new website with care tips in four languages. This will better support consumers internationally with the right product and care information about Campanula. In the context of sustainability, Addenda's growers will use the old labels from stock first. You can admire the renewed and sustainable Campanula labels on the garden centre shelf around April!

Keukenhof will be opening its gates on 23 March. When it closes eight weeks later, on May 14, some one million visitors from across the world will have visited the international flower exhibition. 

Keukenhof provides a major contribution to the tourist and flower sector in the Netherlands.

Keukenhof now has a hundred flower bulb growers supplying bulbs to the park and five hundred flower growers participating in the flower shows. In the autumn, some seven million spring bulbs were planted by hand.

Keukenhof is the place to enjoy millions of flowering tulips, daffodils and other bu;lb flowers in spring.

Members of the Garden Centre Association are being urged to put forward their staff for the GCA Trust’s Dick Allen Scholarship Award Scheme.

The scheme is open to staff within GCA garden centres and the recipient of the award will be invited to attend the International GCA Congress later in the year in Italy.

Peter Burks, GCA Chief Executive, says: “This is a shout out to all of our members who have young staff on their teams who might benefit from taking part in the scheme.

“Applications are currently open and from those submitted, two will be chosen to attend this year’s International GCA Congress, which takes place in Italy. They will not only travel to the destination but will participate in the ‘Interactive Tour’ group, take part in discussions and gain an understanding of how garden centres within the host country, and centres from other countries, including their own, through the wider conversations within the delegate group, operate.

“Applications can be made online via our website at https://bit.ly/3kl79hI and must be endorsed and supported by the applicant’s employer. The GCA Trust will cover the full Congress registration fee, but travel expenses will need to be met by the employer. Other than personal expenses and travel insurance, there are no further costs involved.”

Last year (2022), Laura Matheson from St Peters Garden Centre and Holly Byrne from Millbrook Garden Centre Gravesend were chosen and visited garden centres in Amsterdam across six days.

Will Armitage, GCA Trust Chairman, said: “This is an amazing opportunity for any aspiring members of garden centre teams to see how garden centres operate in Italy, while furthering their personal development with an opportunity to network with other garden centre operators from all over the world in a more informal environment.

“Speaking from personal experience, the successful applicants will have the opportunity to forge lasting professional relationships with likeminded people from all over the world and make some great friends.”

The object of the GCA Trust is to advance among the general public and, in particular among horticultural students, education in horticulture, and particularly garden centres, by the provision and administration of scholarships and bursaries, including prizes to foster such education.

The Trust also aims to assist horticultural students to study, research into and gain experience of horticulture.

The GCA represents garden centres nationwide.

Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

For further information, please visit www.gca.org.uk.

Hillier has unveiled its garden design for the 2023 BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair. This year’s design is an interactive, walkthrough garden enclosed in high hedges and wildflower turf. Inspired by The Secret Garden, the design will encourage visitors to get up close and personal with the plants displayed.

There are three main areas in the garden for visitors to experience. On the right-hand side and flowing around the garden will be a stunning colour-coordinated display of herbaceous perennials and shrubs, beginning with cool whites and purples through to fiery reds and oranges. Moving through the garden from the softer, more delicate colours to intense and vibrant shades will depict the feel of the sun’s movement during the day. Visitors begin their journey through the garden with the relaxed, calm feel of morning, moving through the afternoon when colours get more vivid, then finishing with a bright sunset - a beautiful end to the day.

To the left of the garden as you enter from the bottom of the hill is a contemporary area, featuring Himalayan Birch trees and hostas. Himalayan Birch is known for its brilliant white trunks and is the ideal tree for low-maintenance borders and beds. An array of hostas will be planted among the trees, creating a sea of lush green foliage that will stand in stark contrast to the variety of colours in the opposite border.

Wildflowers will surround the entire garden, differentiating from the hornbeam hedge, which will be uniform and conceal the garden within. Visitors will have the unique opportunity of getting up close to the planting displays with the interactive walkthrough, allowing inspiration to be taken home to their own gardens. At the conclusion of the garden, visitors will reach the Hillier display's retail section, which allows you to purchase a range of plants on display and other Hillier gardening products.

“We are pleased to announce our display for the 2023 Spring Fair,” says Chris Francis, Wholesale and Retail Director of Hillier. “We are looking forward to once again providing inspiration and advice to visitors at the Fair and are excited to offer a walk-through feature this year, so visitors will have the chance to get up close to the plants.”

New for 2023, Hillier Gardening Club members will be able to relax in the Club Lounge, where they will have exclusive access to talks, seating and food. The Fair has something for everyone, including a whole host of special guests on the BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Stage, including Frances Tophill, Adam Frost, and Arit Anderson; the BBC Good Food Market; live bandstand entertainment; Plant Expert tours; and plenty of shopping opportunities, all set in the beautiful grounds and gardens of Beaulieu.

The BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair is taking place in the stunning setting of Beaulieu, and Hillier is proud to be a partner for the third year in a row. Tickets are available from www.bbcgardenersworldfair.com.

Registration is now open for SOLEX, the biggest three-day event in the outdoor living trade calendar being held in Hall 5, NEC Birmingham, on 10-12 July.

This essential ‘Celebration of Summer’ event showcases what’s new and what’s on trend in outdoor living for the Spring/Summer Season 2024.

The Summer Outdoor Living Exhibition is the exclusive event for LOFA (Leisure & Outdoor Furniture Association), the UK’s official trade body for the luxury outdoor living sector, whose mission is to promote luxury brands to quality industry buyers. The SOLEX exhibition highlights all the new designs and developments from LOFA members for both the retail and contract markets. 

If you haven't visited SOLEX before it is a great place to do business. This relaxed and friendly industry exhibition is where you can establish new relationships and develop existing ones. 

Solex has the outdoor retailer in mind with its nine sectors of outdoor living products: 

• Garden Furniture
• Shading
• Outdoor Living Accessories
• Barbecues
• Garden Decoration
• Garden Leisure Buildings
• Outdoor Heating
• Outdoor Health
• Outdoor Entertainment 

This year Solex is once again partnering with the BBQ Magazine who will be hosting the Loving Outdoor Living area, where you can sample some tasty treats from our BBQ brands. You can immerse yourself in our new product area where you will be able to see brand new and innovative products from our exhibitors. Take a mini health check with Perennial who will be manning a special LOFA branded booth across the 3 days and visit the Landscape Garden provided by the Landscape Show one of our SOLEX partners.  

SOLEX attracts quality buyers and visitors from multiple and independent garden centres, high street and department stores, online retailers, DIY Stores, and other industry professionals. 

BRANDS ON DISPLAY 

• 4Seasons Outdoor UK
• Alexander Rose
• Ascalon
• BBQ Gourmet
• Beefeater
• Bramblecrest
• Celtic Spa
• Charbroil
• Charles Taylor
• Daro Trading
• Extreme Lounging
• Firepits UK
• Gardeco
• Garden Furniture Global
• Glencrest
• Garden Impressions
• Hartman
• Hex Living
• Innovators International
• Kamado Joe
• Kettle Interiors
• Kettler
• Leisure Grow
• Lifestyle Appliances
• Lifestyle Garden
• Mercer Agencies
• Minster Stylish Living
• Munro Importers
• Norfolk Leisure
• Outback International
• Pacific Lifestyle
• Pitt Boss Barbecues
• Quest Leisure
• Supremo
• Tobs
• Tramontina
• Tripod Home 

ATTRACTIONS 

• Must have outdoor living products
• Loving Outdoor Living Area
• BBQ Magazine
• Perennial Health Check Area
• Landscape Garden
• New Product Showcase 

Don’t miss out on being part of this great event, register today to visit the only exhibition organised by the industry for the industry. 

https://bit.ly/registerforsolex

After only one week of sales, garden centres have been re-ordering Global Journey’s new Grow Your Own Name range. 

One garden centre re-ordered a full stand deal – 252 pieces after two days of sales and has since re-ordered a second stand for their centre.

It does what it says on the can: within 7–10 days the name appears as the magic bean grows. Clear instructions on the can and on the amazing cardboard rotating display make this product so appealing, not to mention the pure magic of it all. It’s a gift from nature as truly magical as it sounds.

Kids and adults alike will get so much joy and entertainment watching in amazement as their name starts to appear on these mysteriously enchanting plants. Simply water the beans and let the magic begin.

Here’s what some garden centres think of the product…

“We knew it would be a quick seller but I’m amazed by our customer response, they love it! Perfect gift for any occasion. We ordered again after two days worth of sales due to customer feedback.” – Jo, Trowell Garden Centre

“We started selling the Global Journey Grow Your Own Name product three weeks ago and are really pleased with the initial sales. The display is eye catching and grabs customers attention straight away. I can see this being a great selling gift all year round.” – Jon, ACW Garden Centre

"A beautiful and bright stand, delighted with it, and children enthusiastic at seeing their name grow day by day.” – Michael Cronie, Soleburn Garden Centre

TO ORDER a stand simply email Ian at isamuels@global-journey.com or call 0161 872 0333.

Recognising the need to offer consistent high-quality paving with excellent availability to its customer base, Meadow View Stone have been a supplier of Brett Paving into UK Garden Centres since 2012.  For over a decade the two companies have worked collaboratively on product development to ensure a succinct yet all-encompassing range is available for customers.  

The collection is further aided by a comprehensive range of merchandising display options utilising fully recyclable Point of Sale boards and large impactful vinyl’s, which are used to create in-situ display gardens of the various kits and colours available to further promote strong sales.  

With product quality being recognised as a key element of the Meadow View strategy, the company continues to evaluate and work with its suppliers to ensure the high standards are maintained, together with assured availability of consistent stock levels at all times.  Sales forecasts and a committed production program have been agreed and the Company’s multiple production sites are fully stocked for the impending season to ensure stock fulfilment.

The company remains committed in giving customers a broad product choice, outstanding customer service, constant product innovation and continued profitable growth. 

Customers can see the full range and discuss prices and merchandising options with a member of the sales team, or head office.  For further details contact: shill@meadowviestone.co.uk

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 newsletter.

As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2018 as well as 2019 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period.

Access is by subscription only.  For £145.00 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 07973 504214, e-mail karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

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.

Get the GTN Bestsellers charts in full every week in the GTN Bestsellers newsletters for only £145.00.

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 £100m.

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@pottingshedpress.co.uk or call 07973504214.

Buy your subscription today and start receiving the GTN Bestsellers charts this week.

Click on the links below to see The Greatest Christmas Awards judges photo tours of the 17 Gold Award winning garden centres at Christmas 2022:

Altons - The Greatest Christmas Sizzle Team, Barton Grange - The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team & The Greatest Large Garden Centre Christmas Team, Blue Diamond Newbridge - The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team, Gates - The Greatest Gardening Gifts Sales Team, Gouldings Santa Experience - The Greatest Garden Centre Grotto Team, Groves Bridport  - The Greatest Christmas Community Event Team, Klondyke High Legh - The Greatest Group Large Garden Centre Christmas Team, Little Dobbies Richmond - The Greatest Group Small Garden Centre Christmas Team, Longacres Bagshot - The Greatest Festive Food Hall Team, Meadowcroft - The Greatest Mid-Sized Garden Centre Christmas Team, Pengelly - The Greatest Small Garden Centre Christmas Team, Pugh's Radyr - The Greatest Outdoor Plant and Christmas Tree Team, Pugh's Wenvoe - The Greatest Christmas Marketing Team, Rosebourne Aldermaston - The Greatest Festive Food Hall Team, Rosebourne Weyhill - The Greatest Christmas Marketing Team, The Old Railway Line - The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Video, Woodlands Ash - The Greatest Festive Garden Centre Catering Team

See all the photos from the Awards presentations at Spring Fair here

Watch out for more judges photo tours over the coming weeks.