Garden Centre Association members recorded a ‘wonderful’ March according to figures posted in the organisation’s Barometer of Trade for the month – with furniture & BBQs up at +57.7%.
Statistics from GCA garden centres show 12 of the 13 sales areas recorded did well, when likened to the same month in 2024, with gardening categories taking the lead.
GCA Chief Executive, Peter Burks, says: “March was a wonderful month for our members with every garden centre that contributes to our BoT being up on their sales when compared to March last year. The last time we saw 12 categories out of 13 with positive figures was December 2023.
“It is also good to see that gardening categories showed the largest increases, which is confirming many people’s thoughts that there is a massive pent-up demand for gardening products due to such a poor spring last year.
“Catering was also still strong indicating a visit to the garden centre must include a coffee, lunch or treat, no matter what the weather is doing. The overall year-to-date variance was positive too at +10.77%.
“Garden sundries came second in our March BoT, when compared to last year, up by +37.03%, outdoor plants came in next at +35.69%, then hard landscaping in at number four with +31.85% and in fifth place with +28.37%.was seeds and bulbs
“Catering came in sixth position showing a +14.11% increase, with gifts next at +10.12%, followed by houseplants at +8.29% and then clothing up by +6.09%.
“Miscellaneous was showing +6.05%, when compared to the same month in 2024, then pet and aquatics at +5.89%, followed by food hall/farm shop at +2.47%. Leaving Christmas in a logical and predictable last place for this time of year at -45.69%.”
The GCA’s BoT reports are compiled using actual sales figures and provide an up-to-date trading position statement. They are made available mid-month following the end of the prior month after all member garden centres have submitted their results.
The BoT allows members to compare their trading positions with other centres.
The GCA represents more than 200 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 go to www.gca.org.uk.
