|
|
|
Blue Diamond announced their 19th centre last week with the acquisition of Coton Garden Centre in Cambridge and there's a possible 20th site waiting in the wings.
The centre, to the west of Cambridge has been operated by Polhill Garden Centres since 1997, and Blue Diamond have secured a new rental agreement for over 30 years from the trusts that own the green belt land around the city.
Alan Roper, who was born and grew up in Cambridge had been looking for a site to build a centre in the area which has a rapidly growing population as a result of major company re-locations such as Astra Zeneca. "I was being driven around looking for land to build a centre when we drove past Coton. I had no idea it was there," Alan told GTN Xtra.
"It is a centre with great potential. We will be aiming for £4-5 million turnover."
Coton is just off the M11, making it Blue Diamonds second site within minutes of the M11 motorway after the acquisition of Harlow Garden Centre earlier this year.
Alan hopes to be able to announce another centre later this month with potential for adding a further £10m turnover in 2018, hinting about a site for a new build somewhere in the North Midlands. Watch this space.
 |
|
|
|
Bumper sales at the start of December
Busy garden centres got off to a great start for December with high sales volumes across Christmas, catering, gifts, food and plants. According to GTN Bestsellers, total sales were 22% up on last year with Christmas products up by 34%.
Busy garden centres got off to a great start for December with high sales volumes across Christmas, catering, gifts, food and plants.
According to GTN Bestsellers, total sales were 22% up on last year with Christmas products up by 34%.
We’ve seen plenty of full garden centre restaurants, fully booked Christmas grottos and other events and overflowing car parks on our travels around the country for The Greatest Christmas Awards.
With our visit schedule fully booked through until Tuesday of next week we will soon be able to meet up and make decisions about the winners for 2016.
Remember the award for The Greatest Garden Centre Team at Christmas is decided purely by customer votes. There’s still time to get your customers voting. To get all the links and downloads to print out email trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk.
GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year...
- Garden Products - up 14%
- Growing Media - up 11%
- Christmas Products - up 34%
- All Items Index - up 22%
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
|
|
HTA members ratify new board members at AGM
HTA members representing all sectors of the industry attended the association’s Annual General Meeting which took place at the HTA’s Horticulture House in Chilton, Oxfordshire...
The morning concluded with a joint tree planting between the HTA (Carol Paris and Adam Wigglesworth) and GCA (Iain Wylie and Julian Winfield) cementing the relationship between the two organisations.
HTA members representing all sectors of the industry attended the association’s Annual General Meeting which took place at the HTA’s Horticulture House in Chilton, Oxfordshire.
At the meeting the following appointments were ratified. Adam Taylor from Taylors Bulbs, who joined the Board in September, was elected as Vice President until the 2017 AGM. Alex Vick, HTA Finance Director and GIMA President Chris Ramsden from Hozelock were appointed to the Board.
The following Board members stood down from their roles.
Caroline Owen from Scotsdales Garden Centres and David Norman from Abercorn Garden Centre who have both served on the Board since 2007 and prior to that on the Finance and Management Committee. Caroline will continue as the chair of the HTA Marketing Committee.
Mark Pearson who has served on the Board for 4 years and assisted the HTA this year with the new property purchase.
Ian Ashton from Lowaters who has served since 2007.
Adam Frost who has served on the Board for a second term.
HTA President Adam Wigglesworth comments: “We are delighted to welcome Adam, Alex and Chris to the Board. I would like to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to those Board members who have stood down – HTA has been incredibly fortunate to have had such generous support.”
This was echoed by HTA Chief Executive Carol Paris who added her thanks for their guidance and time provided over the years.
Following the AGM there were presentations about Brexit and the changing political landscape (from Mark Glover of Newington Communications) and the impact that it potentially has on consumer behaviour (from Josh McBain of the Foresight Factory).
Speaking about the work that is being done to help raise awareness of horticulture through the All Party Parliamentary Gardening and Horticulture Group (APPGHG) Mark encouraged all to help make the voice of horticulture heard by contacting your local MP directly. Josh spoke about the ‘power of precariousness’ amongst consumers with decline in trust in authority figures, worries about future financial security for the younger generation and continuing uncertainty all playing on people’s minds.
The morning concluded with a joint tree planting between the HTA (Carol Paris and Adam Wigglesworth) and GCA (Iain Wylie and Julian Winfield) cementing the relationship between the two organisations. Following a networking lunch members also received a tour of the building and the facilities available to them.
|
|
GCA announce festive display winners
Barton Grange (above) and Castle Gardens (below) have been announced as the national winners of the 2016 Garden Centre Association's annual Christmas competition...
Barton Grange (above) and Castle Gardens (below) havebeen announced as the national winners of the 2016 Garden Centre Association's annual Christmas competition.
The garden centres were judged to have the best festive displays in the country by the organisation and will receive their awards at its annual conference in January.
Iain Wylie, GCA Chief Executive, said: "We are extremely impressed with the standard of entries this year, they just seem to get better and better.
"This year, our judge, Andy Campbell, visited every entrant to determine the area and national winners. It was a tough choice as the displays were so fantastic but we'd like to congratulate Barton Grange in Lancashire, who won in the Destination Garden Centre (DGC) category, and Castle Gardens in Dorset who scooped the top prize in the Garden Centre (GC) section of the awards."
The garden centres were judged on the innovation, inspiration and excitement created from the way their Christmas products are displayed. The range of products available, accessibility, how easy it is for customers to find and select products and 'wow factor' were also taken into consideration in an assessment of the overall commercial proposition.
The area winners in the South Thames area were Ransoms Garden Centre (DGC) and Castle Gardens (GC). In Wales and West Whitehall Garden Centre - Lacock (DGC) and Whitehall - Whitchurch (GC) were chosen.
In North Thames, the area winners were Van Hage Great Amwell (DGC) and Sunshine Garden Centre (GC) while St Peter's (DGC) and Fairways - Ashbourne (GC) were selected in the Midlands area.
Barton Grange (DGC) and Fron Goch Garden Centre (GC) were selected in the North West and in Scotland and Northern Ireland, Donaghadee Garden Centre (GC) was chosen.
The GCA represents nearly 200 garden centres nationwide.
Through sharing information and its inspection programme it helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.
The GCA's annual conference will be held at St Andrews in Scotland between January 22 and 25, 2017. More than 300 delegates are expected to attend the event.
For further information, please visit www.gca.org.uk<http://www.gca.org.uk/>, log on to www.facebook.com/pages/GardenCentreAssociation<http://www.facebook.com/pages/GardenCentreAssociation> or follow the organisation on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GC_Association<http://www.twitter.com/GC_Association>.
|
|
Dorset-based Castle Gardens has scooped the top national award at the Garden Centre Association’s annual Christmas Competition, in the Garden Centre category.
Up against garden centres across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, this is the seventh time that the garden centre, which is part of The Gardens Group, has received the national accolade.
Judges heaped praise upon Castle Gardens’ magical Christmas displays, which allow visitors to meander through room after room of lovingly themed twinkly lights, baubles and ornaments, as well as step aboard the Orient Express, escape to a timber clad winter lodge and be serenaded by a reindeer.
Garden Centre Association judge, Andy Campbell, explained: “The approach to Christmas retailing that the team at Castle Gardens takes is to make it a magical and sensory experience. The offer and the way it is presented appeals to a wide audience, from young to old, and this is very special and truly memorable. Well done indeed.”
Louise Burks, director of The Gardens Group, said: “To win this national award for a seventh time is a real achievement, and one we are extremely proud of. Our Christmas displays demonstrate a real team effort across The Gardens Group, which begins in January as soon as the previous year’s displays come down.
"Everyone works hard to make sure they look their absolute best, from the opening in October, right up until Christmas, so it means a lot to take this coveted title once again.”
Castle Gardens was also crowned regional winner for the South Thames area in the Garden Centre Association’s annual Christmas Competition, in the Garden Centre category.
|
|
Growth in online sales of gardening products have outpaced the overall garden products market by some distance in recent years, according to new research published by AMA Research.
Reasons for this has included the continued penetration of broadband internet services and mobile devices, as well as the expanding number of companies which now compete in the online sector.
Between 2011 and 2015, Internet sales of garden products more than doubled, with the sector growing by an estimated 24% in 2015 – with growth of a further 20% estimated for 2016.
Segmentation of the internet garden products sector differs from the market as a whole. Garden leisure products accounted for the largest share of ‘internet garden product sales via the Internet at around 30%, followed by horticulture and garden equipment - this compares to the total garden products market where horticulture takes the leading share.
Both the internet sector and the overall market have benefited from the fact that more people are keen to use their gardens for entertaining and socialising. This trend has pushed up demand in sectors such as garden furniture, barbecues and decorative garden features in particular.
It is estimated that ‘non-specialist’ garden retailers such as DIY multiples account for the majority share of internet garden sales in 2015-16. However, competition continues to grow within the overall category, as a number of grocery multiples and high street retailers have recently increased their presence in the market.
The garden centres sector has been slower than others in adopting online sales platforms, but this is now beginning to change. In addition, there are a range of specialist online retailers in key sectors, accounting for around 40% of the market.
Growth within the overall market for garden products is likely to be fairly restrained in the medium term. However, more impressive growth is forecast for the internet sector, which is less mature and at an earlier stage of development.
“By 2020, it is expected that the internet sector will account for over 18% of the total garden products distribution market and will have grown by more than 55% compared with 2016 levels” said Andrew Hartley, Director of AMA Research. “While impressive, market growth is expected to slow during the years leading up to 2020, as the sector starts to mature.”
Ultimately, internet sales of garden products will depend upon demand within the overall market. Future growth rates are expected to vary between sectors, reflecting factors such as varying levels of maturity, replacement frequencies and consumer tastes and fashions. Between 2018 and 2020, AMA Research expects the overall growth rate to have slowed to 10-12% per annum.
The ‘Internet Garden Market Report – UK 2016-2020 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services with over 25 years’ experience in the construction and home improvement markets. The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.
|
|
The team at Tong Garden Centre, Bradford, are celebrating after winning a prestigious industry award for its Christmas displays and product ranges.
The centre has been announced as the North East winner of the GCA's (Garden Centre Association) Christmas Competition for Destination Garden Centres.
Tong Garden Centre co-owner, Mark Farnsworth is delighted to have won the area award: "This is fantastic news for the team and a real stamp of approval from the GCA, who set the standards for excellence in our industry. As new members, this is the first year we have been able to enter, so to win for our first attempt is terrific and a real credit to our hard-working team."
The judging criteria includes product range, merchandising and marketing across categories ranging from trees and giftware to food and the team at Tong were commended for "A strong and professionally executed Christmas offer."
Sharon McNair, Commercial Manager with overall responsibility for Christmas, added: "We begin to plan for Christmas in January to ensure we deliver fantastic choice, beautiful displays and a festive experience for our customers and this award is extremely rewarding. We're really proud of what we've achieved."
Established in 1966, the GCA champions professionalism in garden centre retailing. Every year, its 200 members throughout the UK and Northern Ireland must undergo a comprehensive annual inspection to ensure they continue to meet the stringent criteria set out by the association and therefore maintain membership.
Tong Garden Centre's Christmas offering includes a giant Snowglobe, a magical journey to Santa, weekly tasting events and extended opening hours.
Pictured (from left to right): Susan Rayner, Zoe Tolson, Sharon McNair, Graham Anderson, Andrew Mears, Phil Hemmings and John Bamforth.
|
|
Eight new trees were professionally planted by Brimsmore Gardens on Stilby Road in Yeovil, as part of a new community project led by Westfield Community Association.
The resident-run group, which is working to improve local communal green space, also enlisted the help of six Year 8 and 9 students from Westfield Academy, who all helped dig, plant and secure the trees on the plot, just up the road from their school.
Dinah Davies from Westfield Community Association, said; “We are very grateful to Adam and the team at Brimsmore Gardens for their generosity towards this community project. It’s been a great few months, as throughout autumn we have made a start on planting spring bulbs, wildflower seeds and trees at some of the 42 identified plots in the area, with the help of our wonderful Green Space Invaders from Westfield Academy. Going forward, the students will maintain the plots, and we really hope that the local community will feel a sense of pride in their new surroundings and enjoy watching the new plants blossom, grow and change throughout the seasons.”
Adam Wallis, manager of Brimsmore Gardens, added, “This is such a fantastic initiative and one we are really proud to support. Anything that gets the community, especially the younger generation, interested in gardening and understanding what a positive impact beautiful green spaces have on our wellbeing, as well as wildlife, is something to be championed. The students from Westfield Academy were brilliant, they braved the cold weather and were eager to get stuck in with the tree planting. We really hope they enjoy looking after the trees, and we’ll be happy to offer tips and advice along the way.”
Picture Caption: Front row: L-R Sonia Chant and Dinah Davies of Westfield Community Association. Second row: L-R Rosie, Erin, Samara, Nick, Tyler and Sam from Westfield Academy. Back row: Miss Martin and Mr Roney from Westfield Academy, Mark, Stephen Fry, Adam Wallis, manager of Brimsmore Gardens, and Mike Chant from Westfield Community Association.
|
|
Stewarts bosses meet up with team from new centre
As reported in last week's GTN Xtra, the Abbey Garden Centre at Titchfield in Hampshire has been acquired by Christchurch based Stewarts Garden Centres. Martin Stewart, (first left) and Stewart’s Retail and Marketing Director Terry Head (far right) are pictured meeting up with with the Abbey Centre senior team...
As reported in last week's GTN Xtra, the Abbey Garden Centre at Titchfield in Hampshire has been acquired by Christchurch based Stewarts Garden Centres.
The 7 acre site, which has been associated with growing since the sixties with its lines of greenhouses, is an ideal sister centre for the long established Stewarts horticultural business.
Managing Director Martin Stewart said: "It feels totally right for us. We are so impressed with the team there. We have found our niche with medium sized, earthy garden centres. This fits perfectly and is unique with the Abbey behind it. We are going to be careful to gain the views of loyal customers for their feedback as to what we should improve as we invest in the centre."
“We want to enhance Abbey Garden Centre to become a destination that fits well in the rural environment for those who like to escape from the modern temples of retailing yet will still offer a greater range of plants and improved departments full of good quality products for our gardening customers.”
Stewarts also expect to work closely with English Heritage regarding the neighbouring Titchfield Abbey when it comes to the long term refurbishment of the commercial greenhouses. The commercial greenhouses at Stewarts Broomhill Centre near Wimborne grow up to 25% of the plants sold at their centres.
The passion for horticulture has been in the Stewarts family for 8 generations. The business can be traced back to 1742. Stewarts claim to have created the earliest dedicated garden centre opened in Ferndown in 1955 before their first out of town centre at Christchurch opened in 1961.
There will be additional job opportunities to boost the current team of 42 at the Abbey Garden Centre over the next 12 months. Further information available from www.stewarts.co.uk
Pictured: Martin Stewart, (first left) and Stewart’s Retail and Marketing Director Terry Head (far right) meet up with with Abbey Centre Manager Jackie Avis, Shop Supervisor Colin Fleet, Plant Supervisor Stephen Sheppard and Bob Lane, External gardening sales.
|
|
Marlows Home & Garden Centre has completed the first phase of a £1m redevelopment and refurbishment at its 3.5-acre site in Bury St Edmunds.
The main store and a new café are now open, with a revamped gardening and plants area to follow in spring next year and the pets and acquatics store to be redeveloped after that.
New lines in the main store include home decoration, cook ware, outdoor clothing, greetings cards and toys while the new Marlows Kitchen Café is open for breakfast and lunch as well as tea, coffee and cakes.
James Dilley, managing director, said: “The changes are considerable and have brought Marlows right up to date. Marlows has always been a Bury institution but the new look represents a significant modernisation.
“We’ve really tried to bring the best of modern garden centres across the UK to the new Marlows and I hope it delights and surprises people.”
Andrew Hughes of garden centre design consultancy Pleydell Smithyman, which was retained to advise on the re-development. said: “The natural look and feel of the concept has allowed Marlows to create an effective and flexible retail space to suit a modern home and garden centre with a strong and welcoming new identity, whilst still retaining its tradition and roots.
“Further works to the outdoor plant area and garden sundries area for spring 2017 will complete the picture leaving Marlows well placed to build on its success in the future.”
The changes at Marlows have also included a full re-brand, developed by branding consulancy Holy Cow!, based at Old Martlesham, near Woodbridge.
Sue Ashurst of Holy Cow! said: “We took our design cues from the cool, modern Scandi interiors and we have developed a strong graphic look. However, we have been mindful of the local heritage of the brand and complimented this new contemporary image with a welcoming, chatty tone of voice that Marlows’ staff are famous for”.
Ten additional employees have been recruited in the new café with a similar number of new roles to follow by the time the redevelopment is completed, taking the total workforce to around 60.
The new gardening and plants area is due to be ready in time for Easter. As during the first phase of the investment, Marlows will continued to trade during the work.
|
|
Frensham Garden Centre has lifted the curtain on its first ever ‘Winter Wonderland Grotto’ as part of a £1 million-plus refurbishment of the independent, family-run Surrey centre...
Farnham Brass Band was on hand to perform at the grotto’s grand opening, and will return for a second performance of festive favourites on Sunday (December 11).
Owner of the garden centre, David Wheelhouse said: “We have completely refurbished the whole site, we have actually spent over £1 million this year refurbishing. It has been worth it, we hope to be the premium garden centre in this area, this year and all of next year.
“We truly are a one-stop shop for Christmas. We have an improved coffee shop, a new food court, loads of Christmas gift ideas, a huge range of ski wear, new camping section and loads of free parking.
“You should visit our grotto because it’s free and one of the best in the area, outside of London I would say it’s the best.”
|
|
Following the success of this year’s inaugural horticultural industry exhibit, ‘The Sunflower Square’, at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the HTA have announced plans for another exhibit –‘40 Sunbury Road’. The industry showcase garden will once again be run in conjunction with Peter Seabrook and The Sun newspaper in May 2017 and will aim to better this year’s Silver Gilt medal win. ‘40 Sunbury Road’ will be a celebration of Peter’s 40 years as a Sun columnist. The theme of the exhibit will be a typical but modest suburban back garden, probably the first back garden to be created in the Grand Pavilion. The garden will contain a patio and decking area, hanging baskets and containers, a wildlife area, a shed, greenhouse and living walls. The containers and hanging baskets will include bedding and container plants grown by HTA members - garden centres, growers and seed trade. There will be an area grown by schools that will include vegetables and wildlife friendly plants. There will also be another opportunity for Westland Horticulture’s ‘Rising Stars’ to contribute containers or baskets. Trees and shrubs and other structural elements will once again be provided by HTA and APL members and garden product supplier members. The design of the garden will be available in the New Year. More than 100 companies contributed to the 2016 exhibit which attracted much interest on press day at Chelsea – visitors included Head of News UK Rupert Murdoch and his wife Jerry Hall and actors Jim Carter and Imelda Staunton, along with plenty from photographers, TV and radio crews. George Eustice MP, Minister for Defra, spent half an hour visiting the stand and finding out more about collaboration across the industry. The HTA is asking members who would like to contribute to the project to register their interest with Cassie King, who is coordinating the exhibit on behalf of Peter Seabrook. Click here to email her directly (cassie.king@hta.org.uk)
|
|
|
|
Garden centres throughout the UK are already impressing judges of the GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards as inspections for this prestigious event are well underway...
After all the judges visits, our GTN experts meet to decide on the winners and the results will be announced at The Greatest Awards Christmas Party on January 8th 2017 in the Majestic Hotel, Harrogate, during the evening after the first day of the Harrogate Christmas & Gift Show.
 The award for The Greatest Garden Centre Team at Christmas is a category decided purely by customer voting. Using the voting postcard pdfs we supply you can invite your customers to vote for you as The Greatest Garden Centre Team at Christmas. You can also invite them to vote online using a special Greatest Awards voting link.
Voting will run from today through to Thursday December 22nd. When all the votes are counted, the size of each garden centre team is then taken into account so that small and medium sized centre teams have as much chance of winning this accolade as large centres.
To register your team for customer voting in GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards please send an email to thegreatestawards@tgcmc.co.uk or follow the link below to download the voting forms and posters to get started straight away.
|
|
Do customers think you're The Greatest at Christmas?
The ultimate accolades at GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards are The Greatest Christmas Garden Centre Teams, as voted for by garden centre customers. Voting starts now and runs through to Thursday December 22nd and to be in with a chance of winning all you have to do is download the posters and voting forms below for in-store voting and add our voting link to your facebook, twitter or website to get customers voting on-line too!
 The ultimate accolades at GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards are The Greatest Christmas Garden Centre Teams, as voted for by garden centre customers. Voting starts now and runs through to Thursday December 22nd and to be in with a chance of winning all you have to do is download the posters and voting forms below for in-store voting and add our voting link to your facebook, twitter or website to get customers voting on-line too!
As we head towards the busiest weeks of the year it’s time to ask your customers to vote for you as The Greatest Christmas Garden Centre Team. There's no entry charge for taking part in The Greatest Christmas Garden Centre voting but we are looking to raise funds during November and Decemnber for Greenfingers. If you'd like to make a donation to Greenfingers, please use this link.
GTN Xtra and the Greenfingers Team are also looking for great new Christmas fundraiing ideas for Greenfingers, so get your creative thinking caps on, let us know what ideas you've come up with and you never know, you may be inline for a special award at The Greatest Awards Christmas Party in January.
So, what are you waitiing for? All you have to do is download the voting posters and voting postcard artworks from GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards Dropbox 2016 folder or these links:
GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2016 Voting Postcards.pdf
GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2016 Poster A1.pdf
GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2016 Poster A3.pdf
GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2016 Poster A4.pdf
GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards 2016 Post Your Votes Here Artwork.pdf
Print them out and get your customers voting. They can post them to our Greatest Christmas Awards office or you can create "Post your Votes" here boxes for votes to be posted in store. You can also ask your customers to vote for you on line this year, just paste this link: http://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/GTN/s9lzjxs25b7 into your social media pages, e-mail newsletters and websites. The link will take them straight to our voting form. Last year we recieved a record number of on-line votes and we expect the number to grow even further this year. The closing date for votes, both on-line and posted in-store is 4:30pm on Thursday 22nd December. If you collect votes in-store, please send them through to us on a regular basis to help with the counting and then make sure you send your final batch of votes off directly after Christmas. The Greatest Christmas Awards are presented in Harrogate on January 8th 2017 so the cut off for final votes to be received and counted in our office is Monday 4th January 2016. Remember to look through all your votes before you post them to us - your staff will love to know all the wonderful things your customers say about you as they vote for The Greatest Christmas Garden Centre Team. When all the votes are counted, size of centre and number of staff are taken into account, so there are as many chances of small and medium sized centres winning this ultimate Christmas accolade as that of a big centre. If you have any problems downloading any of the files please e-mail thegreatestawards@tgcmc.co.uk and we’ll send you them by e-mail straight away.
Good luck!
|
|
This year you can ask your customers to vote for you on-line in The Greatest Christmas Awards.
All you need to do is copy and paste this voting link into your website or your social media posts: http://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/GTN/s9lzjxs25b7
You can add The Greatest Christmas Awards logo too:
GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards logo
The closing date for on-line votes is 4:00pm on Thursday 22nd December 2016.
Please note: To avoid unscrupulous multiple votes the system will only accept one vote per IP address, so please do not use on-line voting in store, the postcards are better for in-store voting.
We'd love to know how you use your social media, e-mails and website to drive your customer voting. Please send us links to your activity and we will report on them in GTN Xtra: trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
When all the votes are counted, size of centre and number of staff are taken into account, so there is as much chance of small and medium sized centres winning these ultimate Christmas accolades as that of a big centre. If you have any problems downloading any of the files please e-mail thegreatestawards@tgcmc.co.uk and we’ll send you them by e-mail straight away.
Good luck!
|
|
Biofuels and 'green energy' producer SS Agri Power is focus on production of its new PlantGrow fertiliser rather than on electricity generation. PlantGrow was developed as a means of utilising the residue produced by the company’s anaerobic digester whilst generating ‘green’ electricity. But the interest shown in the new plant food persuaded them to commit its facilities to PlantGrow production. From now on, it is electricity that will be the by-product. In order to guarantee the purity of PlantGrow, only crops grown specifically for the purpose of producing the fertiliser can be used. The digester has undergone an intensive 60-day deep clean to remove all traces of previous waste, however small. The project has meant working closely with the Environment Agency so the product can be accurately classed as a pure, chemical-free fertiliser for use in horticulture. New protocols and standards had to be developed, as this was the first product of its kind. Anaerobic digesters produce electricity by breaking down plant material (for example, crops such as maize or food waste). For the purposes of producing PlantGrowTM, zero waste - not even a small sticker on an ex-supermarket apple - can be allowed to pass through the digester if the product is to meet the strict rules on what is pure and waste free. Steve Suggitt, of SS Agri Power, said: “We are very excited at the reaction we are already getting from horticulturalists and gardeners. What started as an interesting experiment has opened up a new market in the gardening sector and is rapidly developing into a significant business for us.”
To learn more, click here
|
|
|
|
|
Coles Nurseries have an exciting opportunity for a Retail Plant Centre Manager to manage the day to day operation of Coles Plant Centre.
The applicants will preferably have Garden Centre management experience, the ability to work with and develop a team, be forward thinking and interested in joining a business established over 100 years and one of the largest wholesale nurseries in the UK.
The business has plans to develop the Plant Centre in the future, and would like the applicants to be part of that process. Both roles are an opportunity for someone to make a real difference and grow their career in retail management. Salary will be appropriate for the position.
Reporting to
James Coles (JRC) and Mark Cade (MJC).
Responsibilities (initial guidelines)
• To operate the Plant Centre within Company policies
• To manage and control stock and purchases to maximise sales, profitability and stock turn.
• To ensure an annual stock take is planned and executed with accuracy.
• To ensure the team maintain the quality of stock, dry and green, offered at all times.
• To engage with JRC when planning new product lines, and developments.
• To be aware of Health and Safety protocols and inform JRC where action is required.
• Check frequently security around the site.
• Planning staff rotas ensuring sufficient cover is maintained in all departments at all times.
• To be aware of the ranges available from Coles Nurseries, and include in purchasing if appropriate.
• Ensure all staff are aware of cash handling procedures, sales/refund procedures.
• Train and develop staff members where required or desired.
• Annual appraisals of the staff team.
• The logging of staff attendance and hours.
• Maintain staff uniform quality and presentation.
• Ensure that customers come first and are at all times greeted with a friendly yet efficient team.
• To assist in development and implementation of marketing plans
• To comply with waste regulations, and ensure the site is safe and tidy.
• To be proactive, enthusiastic and driven to succeed.
• To work with Steve Myatt and Joy Lamb (Garden Retail Success) in developing the business in
the Making it Happen programme.
• Any additional duties for the benefit of The Business.
Please send your applications including your CV and references to: Mr J Coles
James Coles & Sons (Nurseries) Ltd
624 Uppingham Road, Thurnby, Leicester LE7 9QB
recruitment@colesnurseries.co.uk
|
|
Following a recent internal promotion we are now looking for a new garden centre manager to lead the team at Little Heath Garden Centre. This store is about to embark on a refurbishment programme so this is a great time to join us. Having had previous experience at management level, preferably within a garden centre, you will be a natural leader with a 'hands on, can do' attitude. This is a busy site with a strong Aquatics Department and popular Cafe. The introduction of garden furniture and a broader range of leisure goods has been very successful and we anticipate the imminent improvements to lift the store even further. A horticultural background is preferable but not essential. Computer literacy is required as you'll be responsible for a lot of the product purchasing at store. Managers are encouraged to run the store as if their own business so you need to be highly organised and commercially savvy. Please send CV and introductory letter to Boyd.ddavies@hillview-group.com Closing Date 8th January 2017
|
|
Coles Nurseries have an exciting opportunity for a Retail Plant Centre Senior Supervisor to assist in the day to day operation of Coles Plant Centre. (Weekend Duty
Manager). The applicants will preferably have Garden Centre management experience, the ability to work with and develop a team, be forward thinking and interested in joining a business established over 100
years and one of the largest wholesale nurseries in the UK. The business has plans to develop the Plant Centre in the future, and would like the applicants to be part of that process. Both roles are an opportunity for someone to make a real difference
and grow their career in retail management. Salary will be appropriate for the position.
Reporting to The Plant Centre Manager. Responsibilities (initial guidelines)
• To work with Steve Myatt and Joy Lamb (Garden Retail Success) in developing the business in
the Making it Happen programme.
• To work with the Manager to ensure the smooth running of the Plant Centre and the quality of
products offered both dry and green.
• To provide cover for the Manager when on days off or leave/sickness.
• To work with Plant Centre assistants ensuring that set tasks are completed to satisfaction, and
support the team where needed.
• To work with the team to ensure the site is clean, tidy and well presented at all times.
• Ensure the staff team are well presented and timely with attendance.
• To assist the Manager with cash handling, ordering systems and invoices, plus any additional
paperwork required.
• Ensure deliveries are checked and that inward delivery systems are adhered to, and claims for
breakages/short deliveries are made immediately.
• To assist with purchasing where required, and discuss with the Manager any stock issues you
are concerned about.
• Always discuss any areas that you feel could be improved with the Manager.
• Remind the team of holiday date embargoes, and be aware of Health and Safety issues around
the Centre
• Any additional duties for the benefit of The Business. Please send your applications including your CV and references to:
Mr J Coles
James Coles & Sons (Nurseries) Ltd
624 Uppingham Road, Thurnby, Leicester LE7 9QB recruitment@colesnurseries.co.uk
|
|
 The Company: Apta is the leading supplier of quality flower pots and accessories to the UK garden trade, under its own brand and iconic UK brands, The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and Laura Ashley. The company has achieved very considerable growth and now wishes to strengthen its merchandising team with the recruitment of additional Product Merchandisers. The role will appeal to motivated and ambitious individuals. Job title: Product Merchandisers (Full-Time). See Areas below. Area 1: Kent Area 2: Southwest and surrounding areas Area 3: Sussex, West Kent, south London, Surrey Salary: £22,000+ after training with immediate start. Generous bonus scheme & company vehicle. Progression: Apta has a track-record of promoting its staff. The Role of Product Merchandiser: - Building upon strong partnerships with existing customers
- Working with the sales team and head office to ensure that customer experience is always exceptional.
- Planning and working to an effective journey plan, maximising customer contact.
The person for this Product Merchandiser opportunity:
We are looking for committed, fit and motivated individuals to join our excellent merchandising team. The main duties involve setting up display benches and displaying our products within garden centres.
Area 1: mainly covering Kent, Sussex, and surrounding areas. Candidates must be well located in the territory, ideally in the Ashford area. Other well located locations within the territory will be considered. Area 2: mainly covering the Southwest and surrounding areas. Candidates must be well located in the territory, ideally in the Exeter area. Other well located locations within the territory will be considered. Area 3: mainly covering Sussex, Kent and surrounding areas.Candidates must be well located in the territory, ideally in East Sussex. Other well located locations within the territory will be considered. This is an outdoor job involving heavy lifting and only applicants whom are fit, healthy and willing to work extended hours during our main season should apply. A company vehicle is provided for all work duties along with a fuel card and mobile phone. A full clean driving licence is required and applicants need to be 23 + years of age.
Applications should be sent by email with your CV and covering letter to Brian Cobb, Merchandising Manager, brian.cobb@apta.co.uk or telephone 07968 153418 for any other details.
|
|
Senior Plant Centre Retail Manager (ref:DS8889)
Location: Leicestershire
Salary: £25,000 - £30,000
Date: 07 Dec
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
Our client is the UK's largest grower of trees and shrubs for the amenity and commercial markets. Based in the East Midlands, they supply stock nationwide via their own delivery vehicles to clients including landscapers, garden designers, wholesale nurseries and local authorities, for projects ranging from new housing developments and business parks, to show gardens and plants for private individuals. In addition to this they have a thriving retail operation and it is for this that they are seeking a top retailer to manage their busy Plant Centre.
The Job
The successful candidate will be a hands-on Manager within the retail nursery.
Daily duties will include:
- Providing an excellent standard of customer service.
- Ensuring that the plants are well displayed and in good condition.
- Assisting with ordering additional plants, incoming deliveries and merchandising stock.
- Answering the questions of customers and providing advice.
- Managing the staff within the Plant Centre.
- Opening and closing the centre, cashing up, preparing reports and ensure that the centre is profitable and thriving.
The Person
All the staff in the nursery are keen plants people, so it is essential that the new manager has a good knowledge and a passion for horticulture. Good communication and customer service skills are also essential. Some training in horticulture would also be an advantage and a proven background in horticultural retailing at management level is essential.
To apply for this role click here
|
|
Plant Centre Supervisor (ref:DS8890)
Location: Leicestershire
Salary: £18,000 - £24,000
Date: 07 Dec
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
Our client is a large Leicestershire nursery with a successful retail outlet selling quality plants grown on site to a loyal local customer base. It is staffed by knowledgeable horticulturists and very much has the customer in mind. Currently they are seeking a Plant Centre Supervisor to join the team in assisting the Manager in the day to day running and deputising for them in their absence.
The Job
The successful candidate will be a hands-on Supervisor within the retail nursery.
Daily duties will include:
- Providing an excellent standard of customer service.
- Ensuring that the plants are well displayed and in good condition.
- Assisting with incoming deliveries and merchandising stock.
- Answering the questions of customers and providing advice.
- Assisting in other areas of the business as requested.
The Person
All the staff in the nursery are keen plants people, so it is essential to have a good knowledge and a passion for horticulture. Good communication and customer service skills are also essential. Some training in horticulture would also be an advantage.To apply for this role click here
|
|
Horticultural / Plantarea Manager (ref:DS8896)
Location: Wiltshire
Salary: £18,000 - £22,000
Date: 07 Dec
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
We are seeking an outstanding plants person with great merchandising and retail skills to take the role of Horticultural Manager of this Wiltshire based garden centre which is part of a Nationwide group that are continually growing and developing their leading garden centres across England and Wales.
The Role
The role will be to take responsibility for one of the largest departments within the centre. As Horticulture / Plantarea Manager you will look after the day to day merchandising and maintenance of the plant stock as well as motivating the team to provide the highest standard of customer service. The role will also have duty management responsibility across the entire centre.
The Person
For this role we are seeking a leader with superb retail experience to head this busy department.
Candidates MUST HAVE strong horticultural knowledge both practical and academic and be able to demonstrate a very high level of plant knowledge.
The plantarea is the focus point of any garden centre and your standards for customer service, merchandising and the little details that make a department special will make you stand out. Experience within a garden centre is desirable as is supervisory skills.
To apply for this role click here
|
|
Wholesale Nursery Growing Supervisor (ref:DS8884)
Location: Herefordshire
Salary: £20,000 - £30,000
Date: 07 Dec
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
This leading Hereford based wholesale nursery is looking for 2 Growing Supervisors to join their team. Their mission statement is to strive at all times to supply, exceptional quality plants. Provide outstanding customer service, whilst maintaining a sustainable, ethical business model with a well-trained, motivated and developed team working within the 'culture' of a family business, one of; efficient and focused work ethic, respect, professionalism and friendliness where their people all feel valued, challenged and fulfilled in their work.
The Job
To manage and to be a key part of the day to day growing across the production site, whilst ensuring the delivery of site performance targets and business strategy. Leading, managing, training and mentoring the Cultural team so that they continually work to a continuous improvement cycle, delivering outstanding quality and customer service whilst working in an efficient and effective way, profitably growing plants to customer specification following business policies and SOP.
- Required to deputise for the immediate line manager (this would include shift patterns), or during high workload times of year.
- To provide support in specific key areas of the business as directed by the line manager.
- To be responsible and accountable for key business goals and targets that may be assigned from time to time as and when required by the business.
- To continually look at and suggest how the business can increase its effectiveness, efficiency, quality and customer service.
The Person
- Must be an effective, accurate and honest communicator up and down, both within and across departments.
- Needs to be familiar with crops grown ideally, but not essential if they come from a horticultural and growing background.
- Must have experience of leading, motivating and developing teams preferably at management or supervisory level.
- Must have PA1, PA6 ideal PA2.
- Must be able to lead and manager a small team of cultural staff.
- Ideally have a formal horticultural qualification, but other similar qualifications / experience with a proven track record would be considered too.
- Must be well organised with excellent attention to detail and the ability to prioritise work.
- Must have a flexible approach to work and able to demonstrate problem solving skills.
- Must be proficient in the use of IT systems, including, but not limited to Microsoft Excel.
- Must have an understanding of process improvement and LEAN systems.
- Must have a working knowledge of Quality systems.
- Must be a great team player and be able to motivate, mentor, train, support and develop their teams.
- Should have a record of continual personal improvement.
As this is a growing role the position involves early morning, late night and weekend working on a rota basis during the season and may involve the use of an annualised hours contract.
To apply for this role click here
|
|
|
|
|
with all the news direct to your e-mail inbox. The best news service every weekend and all the breaking news as it happens.
Subscribe for free using this link: http://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/7rulj2yio7x?a=6&p=49514304&t=20355005
|
|
 Crest Garden has announced the appointment of two key sales roles to accelerate the development of the Flopro and Kent & Stowe brands.
Melanie Dobson becomes Territory Sales Manager for the north west of England and north Wales. She has a successful track record in territory development in the garden market having 8 years’ experience at DOFF as well as 6 years’ experience with a large blinds company.
Jacqui Sutcliffe becomes Territory Sales Manager for the north east of England and Lincolnshire. She has considerable experience in the garden centre market most recently with Outback Erin and with Festive Christmas and Lighting.
Commenting on the appointments, Andy Abraham, Sales Director said: “We are delighted to have such experienced and well respected sales managers in these key areas of the UK. The Flopro and Kent & Stowe brands have enjoyed huge success in the market place and it is our intention to continue to invest in people and products to grow market share in these important product sectors.”
|
|
Garden products are a Christmas gift for sales
Christmas gift ideas for gardeners and plants as gifts drove up GTN Bestsellers Garden Product Top 50 sales volumes by nearly 18% week on week to record total sales as at mid September this year and the highest for week 48 across the last three years...
Christmas gift ideas for gardeners and plants as gifts drove up GTN Bestsellers Garden Product Top 50 sales volumes by nearly 18% week on week to record total sales as at mid September this year and the highest for week 48 across the last three years.
The main highlights this week were:
- The highest new entry was Elho Brussels Diamond Round Pot 14 cm Lovely Red (pictured right) at No 30.
- Town and Country Gloves - Mens All You Need was the highest re-entry at No 28.
- Smart Garden Solar Crystal Glass Stake Light was the highest climber, jumping 35 places to No 11.
- Fito Drip Feeder For Orchids 32ml reclaimed top spot.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
|
|
As families get their houses decorated ready for Christmas the GTN Bestsellers Top 50 chart contains plenty of tree decorations.
Personalised, glittery, and confectionary hanging decorations abound and five lines of Window Gels make it into the Top 50.
Here are the highlights:
- Festive Gold Glitter Bauble 10cm was the highest new entry at No 14.
- Sage Decor 14cm Hip Bunch Red was the highest re-entry at No 8.
- IC Window Gel Christmas Tree was the highest climber, jumping 24 places to No 26.
- History & Heraldry Our Family Christmas Tree Baubles stays at No 1.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
It's carry on gardening for compost sales
Even in December growing media sales are running up on last year. Orchid and other houseplant composts are the biggest movers, percentage increase wise, but with plenty of multipurpose compost, manure and mulch being sold the nation’s appetite to carry on gardening appears to be undiminished...
Even in December growing media sales are running up on last year. Orchid and other houseplant composts are the biggest movers, percentage increase wise, but with plenty of multipurpose compost, manure and mulch being sold the nation’s appetite to carry on gardening appears to be undiminished.
The main highlights were:
- Westland Indoor Plant Compost (10 litres) was the highest climber, jumping 31 places to No 19.
- Westland Decorative Mini Bark (50 litres) was the highest re-entry at No 13.
- Other products returning to the Top 50 were Vital Earth Organic Garden Compost (50 litres), Taylors Bulb Fibre (10 litres), and Growise Multipurpose Compost (50 litres).
- Scotts Levington Multipurpose + John Innes (56 litres) retained the top spot.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
|
|
Christmas plant sales benefited from high footfall levels last week with both Poinsettia and Helleborus sales trebling week on week.
Total plant sales recorded by GTN Bestsellers from garden centre EPoS data grew by a higher percentage than our Top 50 Christmas Products sales chart.
- Poinsettia moves up from No 3 to No 1 at the start of Deecember.
- Helleborus, Christmas Rose, moves up nine places to No 5.
- Roses move up 24 places to No 18. Are these mainly gift sales?
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
|
|
The Royal Horticultural Society is planning fewer, more spectacular RHS London Flower Shows each year in both of its Horticultural Halls, where there will be more for visitors to see, do and take home than ever before.
In future resources will be consolidated to invest in bigger and better seasonal shows. As well as investing more in show content, the RHS will increase its marketing of these shows to grow visitor numbers. These shows will be ticketed events. Tickets will cost £5 for RHS members and £6 for non-members.
In 2017 the line-up, happening across both the RHS’ Lindley and Lawrence Halls, will be:
- RHS Early Spring Plant Fair on 14 and 15 February
- RHS Spring Plant and Orchid Show on the 29 and 30 March
- RHS Autumn Garden Show on the 25 and 26 October
There will also be 3 smaller RHS Gardening Events in one hall, which members and the public will be able to visit for free:
- RHS Botanical Art Show on 24 and 25 February
- RHS Summer Urban Garden Show on 12 and 13 July
- RHS Harvest Festival Show on 3 and 4 October
In 2018 the RHS will be introducing a new Summer Garden, Art and Photography Show. The RHS London Show line-up in 2018, happening across both Halls, will be:
- RHS Early Spring Plant Fair on the 13 and 14 February
- RHS Spring Plant and Orchid Show on the 28 and 29 March
- RHS Summer Garden, Art and Photography Show on the 11 and 12 July
- RHS Autumn Urban Garden Show on the 27 and 28 October
There will also be 1 smaller RHS Gardening Event, which members and the public will be able to visit for free:
- RHS Harvest Festival Show on 2 and 3 October
Sue Biggs, RHS Director General, says: “We’ve been holding RHS London Flower Shows since 1904 as part of our charitable purpose to bring gardening into the lives of as many people as possible.
“We’re committed to continuing these very special shows, where some of the UK’s best nurseries create the most beautiful plant displays. The Flower Show season is extremely busy; we think fewer, but bigger and better London Shows in both of our magnificent horticulture halls, will give our visitors a more wonderful experience and engage more of our members, as well as new audiences.
“From 2018 there will always be four of the two hall seasonal shows. The three two hall shows and three one hall shows in 2017 is only interim as we transition into the new format.”
The RHS will continue to pay to put on its’ London Flower Shows, which are not profit making, as part of its’ charitable remit to promote horticulture.
To reflect the enhanced show experience and as part of the RHS’ commitment to grow the next generation of gardeners, from 2017 member tickets will be £5 and non-member tickets will be £6. All funds from these tickets will go towards helping pay for RHS Apprentices, to kick start and enable young people’s careers in horticulture.
Sue Biggs continues: “These prices are extremely reasonable for London based events, which will showcase some of the best garden and garden art displays in the world.
“On top of this funds raised from the tickets will go towards helping support our apprentices develop skills and create experience for a solid foundation for their careers and future. Our apprentices learn on courses; develop skills in our four RHS gardens and at our world famous shows and get the chance to do work experience at leading horticultural organisations.
“There is a critical green skills gap and the RHS’ takes its role and responsibility to grow the next generation of horticulturists extremely seriously; we’re very grateful for the support of our members, funders and partners who enable us to do vast work to support, promote and celebrate great British horticulture.”
|
|
Committed to strengthening its collaborative relationship with its garden centre partners SBM Life Science has invested in the appointment of a territory manager for the South East region.
Andy Reffold, in post from 5 December, has joined SBM Life Science from The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company. He brings with him a wealth of expertise and market knowledge, as well as excellent contacts in the South East.
Andy will be working with garden centres on opportunities with SBM Life Science’s existing marketing leading brands including Baby Bio®, Phostrogen®, Toprose and Provado®. He will also leverage the products and brands currently within the SBM stable as they are developed and introduced to the UK market.
He will report into Scott Williams, SBM Life Science’s National Salesforce Channel Manager UK & Ireland.
“Our vision for SBM Life Science is to become a worldwide leader for home and garden solutions, offering an innovative portfolio that will meet the evolving expectations of our customers,” explained Darren Brown, Head of SBM Life Science Limited.
“We’re delighted to welcome Andy into our team to help us realise this vision. 2017 is going to be an exciting season for our business as we capitalise on the opportunity ahead of the new business and we’re looking forward to Andy being an integral part of that process.”
Baby Bio® is a registered trademark of SBM Développement.
Phostrogen® is a registered trademark of SBM Développement.
Provado® is a registered trademark of Bayer CropScience Ltd.
|
|
|
|
|
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 printed newsletter.
As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2014 as well as 2015 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period. Access is by subscription only. For £195.00 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 01733 775700, e-mail karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.
Highlights of the GTN Garden Products Bestsellers chart for this week are here
Highlights of the GTN Garden Plants Bestsellers chart for this week are here
Highlights of the GTN Christmas Products Bestsellers chart for this week are here
Highlights of the GTN Growing Media Bestsellers chart for this week are here 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 delivered via the post for only £195.00.
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 £120m.
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.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or call 01733 775700.
Buy your subscription today and start receiveing the GTN Bestsellers charts this week.
|
|
|
All the latest news from the world of garden centre catering
|
|
Casual Dining, the UK’s multi-award winning trade event for casual dining restaurant and pub operators, will now feature over 200 exhibiting companies when it returns to the Business Design Centre in London on 22-23 February.
The exhibitor list, now available online at www.casualdiningshow.co.uk, offers an exclusive first look at some of the companies – from big brand names to emerging start-ups – who will be helping to shape the future of the casual dining sector over the next twelve months.
Building on the success of Casual Dining 2016, which enjoyed a significant 22% increase in attendees, exhibition space has been selling at an unprecedented rate. With just under three months until doors open, it’s now almost entirely sold out. That’s even with the addition of a 20% increase in stands, to expand the show into a new area on its Upper Feature Level.
Confirmed exhibitors include Heinz, Lamb Western, Reynolds, Moy Park Foodservice, McCain Foodservice, DiSotto Foods, Nestle Professional, New York Bakery, Pan’Artisan, KFF, JJ Foodservice, Pipers Crisp Co, Whitby Seafoods, Tilda, Friesland Campina UK, Europastry, Venice Bakery, Pidy, Roberts Bakery, JDM Food Group, Lincoln & York, UCC Coffee UK, and Nestle Professional.
Rational, Nelson Catering Equipment, rexmartins, Unox UK, Advance Catering Equipment, Robot Coupe, Agricoat NatureSeal, London Workwear Rental, Comtrex, Collins Booking System, Text Local, Givex, Kavis, SAI Global, Memberoo, and Bookatable, will be presenting their latest equipment, technology and services.
As for beer, wine, ciders, spirits, cocktails, mixers, and soft drinks – Casual Dining 2017 offers visiting pub, bar, and restaurant buyers its biggest choice yet.
Morgenrot, Budweiser Budvar UK, Global Brands, World Beers and The Wine Ed Company are just some of the big name brands preparing to exhibit.
Staibano, East London Liquor Company, 10 Degrees C and Pinkster Gin will be making their debut in the show’s Artisan Spirits Lounge – joining returning exhibitors Sipsmith Independent Spirits and Harry Brompton's Alcoholic Ice Tea.
New craft beers and ciders can be sampled in the popular Craft Beer & Cider Pavilion, featuring Thistly Cross Cider, Wobblegate Juice & Cider, West Side Drinks, Celtic Marches Beverages, and Glebe Farm Foods.
While Nestle Waters UK, Britvic Soft Drinks, Fever-Tree Premium Natural Mixers, Lucozade Ribena Suntory, Fentimans, Cawston Press, Karma Cola, Pip Organic, Jools Drinks, Double Dutch and Free Spirit will be offering a taste of differentiation in the premium soft drinks category.
The full exhibitor list is available at www.casualdiningshow.co.uk/exhibitor-list.
“Casual Dining is a fantastic blend of established suppliers bringing their new products to market alongside an abundance of innovations from a fine collection of start-up entrepreneurs,” says Rob Pitcher, divisional director restaurants at Mitchells and Butlers.
“Casual Dining is great for catching up with my key suppliers, all under one roof, coupled with some great newcomers with challenging ideas and innovation – what’s not to like!” says Mark Rush, head of food innovation at Revolution Bars Group.
“A visit to Casual Dining gives a unique opportunity to discover products and trends completely relevant to our sector. It’s a great show!” says Alexander Salussolia, MD of Glendola Leisure Group.
|
|
|
|
|
