July 16 marked another significant milestone for both the Greenfingers Charity and the team at Derian House Children’s Hospice as the all-new Sensory Garden was officially opened.

Almost three years in the making, the new Greenfingers garden - located at the heart of the hospice - has now been handed to the hospice staff, service users, and their families.  The garden space, previously only accessible via the main hospice building and overlooked by children’s bedrooms, now features a mixture of interactive zones linked by a central covered space that allows all service users to spend time outside whatever the weather. More importantly, the vital privacy of those rooms overlooking the garden has been permanently maintained.

As the name suggests the Sensory Garden combines functionality and privacy alongside places of reflection, fun and memorial. Imaginative and subdued lighting schemes have also been adopted to create interest after dark, whilst new seating areas have been introduced to provide more pockets of quiet and privacy for everyone from young people to family and staff. Specific areas have been created with plants to heighten the senses, offering a truly immersive experience for the children. 

Like any Greenfingers project, the new garden at Derian House wouldn't have been possible without the dedication of many of the charity’s supporters. The initial vision came to life thanks to designer Chris Forshaw and landscaper Gavin Jones, guided by project manager Joanne Kennedy which saw a tired courtyard turned into a beautiful and functional space. 

Financial backing for the project came from a diverse group of supporters. Greenfingers' fundraising initiatives, such as Garden Re-Leaf Day, played a key role. Additionally, generous donations from LOFA, The Hospital Saturday Fund, Britford Bridge, Westfield Health, Stockwell Cliffe, and The Mackintosh Foundation provided crucial funds for the construction of the covered space, allowing children and families to enjoy the outdoors year-round.

Turning the design into reality also wouldn't have been possible without further support from local businesses such as Barton Grange Garden Centre (donating plants and shrubs), Evergreen (providing topsoil and compost), Sipcam Home & Garden (garden care supplies) and Westland (gardening tools) with their in-kind donations. These contributions not only reduced the project's financial burden but also ensured the landscapers had the necessary materials to bring the garden to life. 

Joining the official opening ceremony were Sue Allen, Linda Petrons and Neil Sewell, of Greenfingers, and charity Trustee, Colin Wetherley-Mein. Representatives from the garden’s generous sponsors also attended including Simon Mullholland from Westland, Ed Cantle from Gardena, Nigel Thompson and Lydia Grayson from Sipcam, Jane Lawler, Carol and Guy Topping of Barton Grange. Kate Ebbens from Capi Europe and President of GIMA even used the occasion to complete a celebratory 5 km run as part of her 366-day challenge! Steve Burden captured the event through his lens, while Phil Wright from Underground Podcast documented the opening on film. The honour of cutting the ribbon fell to Sue Allen, alongside Catherine Randall, the Chief Nurse at Derian House, and Maariyah, one of the hospice’s young people.

Sue Allen, Greenfingers Chair said: “Chris’s vision for the courtyard space at Derian House was truly inspiring on paper, but in real life it is even better. We’re so pleased to be officially handing over the garden to the Derian House team and would like to thank everyone who has been involved. From fundraising to volunteering in the garden to generous gifts in kind, it has all added up to an incredible effort that has created a space that we are sure will be loved and cared for by the hospice community for many for years to come.”

Catherine Randall, Chief Nurse at Derian House said: This isn't just any garden; it is a sanctuary for the 400 families we care for here at Derian. Here, they can relax and spend time together – making precious memories. Not only that, but research has shown that spending time outdoors can help with symptoms, reduce stress, and improve mood in people with life-limiting illnesses. Greenfingers’ generosity has created a garden that our families will enjoy for years to come. On behalf of all of us here at Derian House – thank you.”

Find out more

To learn more about the Greenfingers Charity please visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk. You can also join in the conversation by joining Greenfingers on social media -https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/, @GreenfingersCha on Twitter, and @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn.  

The HEX Group held HEXFEST – a family fun day and music festival at Uttoxeter Racecourse.

It was a free event for employees, friends and family to show appreciation and continued hard work and dedication to the business. A total of 3,500 people attended.

The music stage feratured solo artists and bands playing throughout the day, finishing off with ‘The Take That Experience’ headline band.

Activities throughout the day included fun fair rides, petting zoo, rock climbing wall, inflatables, crazy golf, human table football and many more.

The spokesperson said: “It was a sunny day which created a fantastic atmosphere. Feedback was fantastic and everyone had a great day.”

Gallery of pictures below...

GCA Chairman, Will Blake and Chairman Elect for 2024-25, Ben Harrison.

The Garden Centre Association has revealed the overarching theme for its 2025 annual conference ahead of bookings opening for the event later this summer.

The conference, which takes place in Reading in January, has ‘The Unique Garden Centre Experience’ as its main topic.

GCA Chairman, Will Blake, who is organising the conference with GCA CEO Peter Burks, says: “We decided this year to make our members aware of our key theme earlier than normal and announced it during our four recent Area Award Meetings. We’re aiming to launch bookings at the end of the summer too, so people have more time to get booked up.

“Work started on our 2025 conference almost immediately after our 2024 one ended and, once again, we’re planning something more forward-thinking than ever this year. We’re putting together the final touches at the moment and hope to announce our informative, inspiring and motivational line-up of speakers soon too.

“As always, the conference will provide the opportunity for us all to socialise with our industry friends, colleagues and associates too.

“This year we’re also delighted to announce that our fancy dress theme is ‘London Underground’ – think stations, think history, think workers, think anything associated with the London Underground! We’re looking forward to seeing just how creative everyone will be and we’re hoping by giving people more time to thinking about it, they’ll come up with some amazing costumes.”

On the Sunday evening before conference, there will also be an optional self-guided London Retail Safari tour.

Chairman Elect for 2024/25, Ben Harrison, who is Operations Director of Haskins Garden Centres, explains: “This will be organised by Matthew Brown from Echochamber and will start with a trends’ presentation from Matthew in central London. We will organise transport to take any luggage you have with you from here directly back to the hotel.

“Attendees will be provided with some suggested routes to take to explore all that London has to offer. We will then meet at a venue near Battersea Power Station for drinks and nibbles before heading to the hotel in Reading on a coach. Any profits from this event will be donated to Charity.”

The 2025 GCA Conference takes place at De Vere Wokefield Park Reading from January 26 until 29.

Peter Burks, GCA CEO, adds: “Once booking is open via our members’ section on our website www.gca.org.uk we will let everyone know. In the meantime, sponsorship slots are already available, so if any companies are interested, please get in touch with me via peter@gca.org.uk.” 

Henry Bell & Co, a market leader in the world of animal feeds, has secured a 12-month primary supplier contract for its Wild Bird Care Collection with the Tillington Group for a fourth year running.

The agreement will see the full range of Henry Bell feeds, feeders and hardware on sale throughout 41 nationwide garden centres, belonging to Tillington’s 11 independent member companies, including Yorkshire Garden Centres, which will join the group in September.

“We are delighted to have renewed our contract with the Tillington Group at such an exciting time,” said Henry Bell Wild Bird Care Commercial Director Tony Clare. “We have just launched some fantastic new products and innovations, which we are confident will prove extremely popular with both Tillington members and their customers.”

Henry Bell & Co Managing Director Thomas Lee added: “This is tremendous news and a fantastic endorsement for our family business. Relationships with our fellow independents really matter to us and we are looking forward to working with the Tillington Group once again.”

Tillington Group Category Manager Ben Stevenson said: “The Henry Bell Wild Bird Care Collection is a good fit for us with its extensive range of feeds and accessories. Our customers have confidence in the brand and know that the products deliver both quality and value. As a primary supplier, Henry Bell makes our life much easier with readily available stock, great POS material and plenty of sales and merchandising advice when we need it.”

Taylors Bulbs have been reaping the rewards of their recent solar panel and LED lighting installations. In early 2023, Taylors installed 1544 solar panels at their Lincolnshire HQ and replaced all the lighting on site with LED.

Since installation, the solar panels at Taylors have generated 633000 kWh of electricity. This has meant that nearly 30% of the electricity Taylors use now comes from their solar panels.

The solar panels have benefited the company’s carbon footprint, reducing it by an estimated 31.7 Tonnes CO₂e. LED lighting has further reduced their carbon footprint by 10 Tonnes CO₂e contributing to an overall reduction in carbon footprint of 14.3% over the last year.

Technical Manager Andy Bean, who oversaw the solar and LED project said: “It’s really pleasing to be able to quantify the benefits of our solar and LED projects and we are now able to see the contribution they are making towards reducing our carbon footprint. We continue to look for efficiencies and improvements we can utilise throughout the business to make further CO₂e  reductions.”

Aylett Nurseries were celebrating after winning the Garden Centre category in the GCA East region awards.

The garden centre also picked up the GIMA Award for Best Garden Products Retailer and Best Indoor Plants Retailer, again in the Garden Centre category.

There’s still time to visit the Ball UK Summer Showcase in Oxfordshire, to see more than 2000 new and experimental varieties of shrubs, along with seasonal and perennial plants which may be coming to the market in 2025, plus retail concepts to help sell more plants.

Open from 23^rd- 24^th July (book in advance), expect to see the now iconic Tree of Life ladened with baskets brimming with the Petunia ‘Bees Knees’. Said to the clearest yellow on the market, plants are in tip top condition and are ably demonstrating their weather resistance. 

At 11am on each open day, there is a presentation highlighting some of the new varieties likely to be on planteria benches in 2025 and beyond. Look out for Petunia Tumbelina Julianna and Lanata ‘Passion Fruit’ which were putting on a good show.

As in past year, visitors from all sectors of the horticultural industry, are encouraged to put a blue flag next to the plant they like the best. Results will be posted at the end of the Summer Showcase and can provide an useful insight into what might be in demand next year.

Blue Diamond Garden Centres and its brand, Fryer’s Roses, were awarded a coveted Gold Medal at RHS Flower Show Tatton Park this week, only two weeks after achieving their first Gold Medal at RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival.

They were also awarded a Gold Medal for their exhibit, in collaboration with the National Trust, at the show, which celebrated the success of their multi-award winning RHS Chelsea Show.

This is the first year that Blue Diamond Garden Centres have been awarded Gold Medals at RHS shows.

Jill Kerr, Group Relationship Manager for the Blue Diamond Group said: 

“This really is a Blue Diamond team effort and what a team we have!  With over 4500 employees over 44 Garden Centres, the shows offer our employees the opportunity to demonstrate their creativity and flair to a wider audience, to meet colleagues from other centres and importantly to talk to visitors at the shows about who we are and why we offer a point of difference to our customers. I am delighted with the results”. 

Alan Roper, Managing Director of the Blue Diamond Group said; -

“We have had the most successful show season on record this year and I am proud of what the team has achieved”.

The Fryer’s Roses exhibit was designed to show visitors different ways of using roses in a courtyard-style garden. Blue Diamond’s own brand, Fryer's Roses, were mixed with companion and Mediterranean plants and also planted in containers to show their versatility.

‘Nostalgia’ a two-toned rose and ‘Believe in Yourself’, a newly launched rose on behalf of Blue Diamond’s charity partner the Stroke Association, took centre stage.  Bred by Rosen Tantau, rosa ‘Believe in Yourself’ is a with a vivid mauve bloom with dark purple eye and open stamen, perfect for attracting pollinators.

All roses were supplied by Blue Diamond owned Bridgemere nursery, potted in peat free compost and in recyclable pots. 

Visitors to the show could buy a selection of the Fryer's award-winning roses.

Visitors to the show were also able to create the ‘Chelsea Look’ at home as Blue Diamond curated a plant collection of plants that were in or inspired by The Octavia Hill Garden by Blue Diamond with the National Trust. The National Trust Chelsea Plant Collection by Blue Diamond is designed to enable people to create their own ‘outdoor sitting room’ and nature-friendly space, both of which were central themes to the Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show. 

As part of Blue Diamond’s commitment to sustainable production, all these plants are potted in peat-free compost and recyclable pots.

The National Trust Chelsea Plant Collection is also available to buy exclusively in all Blue Diamond Garden Centres, whilst stocks last.

‘The Octavia Hill Garden by Blue Diamond with the National Trust’ will be rebuilt in its entirety at Blue Diamond owned, Bridgemere Show Gardens (1) in Cheshire – an RHS Partner Garden. Work is due to commence late summer and will be unveiled to the public in late spring 2025. National Trust members will be able to visit Bridgemere Show Gardens for free in the first year of the Garden being open.

Credit the photographs above to Joe Wainwright.

A celebration of grassroot development and the innovators creating new and unique solutions, the GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund (GISCF), created in partnership with Glee, is set to mark its 10th birthday this September, with GIMA issuing a rallying call to those new brands and product designers to submit their entries now!

Awarded at the annual Glee trade exhibition (10th – 12th September, NEC Birmingham), which has partnered with GIMA and the GISCF for the last decade, the 2024 GISCF champ will join an illustrious list of previous winners, which includes now established brands such as GERMIE, Natural Grower, Qwickhose, PotMate™, Bloomin’ Amazing and Vivagreen. 

Each year the fund offers one lucky winner an unrivalled prize package, comprising a grant of up to £6,000. This includes a year’s full GIMA membership, plus a wide range of business support tools including free exhibition space at Glee and free PR support during the event. In addition, the winners fund also includes design, development and manufacturing or marketing cost support up to the value of £3,000; access to an industry business consultant; one-year ACID (Anti Copying In Design) membership; and an advert in the next GIMA Product Digest.

Vicky Nuttall, GIMA Director, said: “The GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund celebrates those individuals or brands that have turned their ideas into reality through hard work and dedication. Each year, we see a variety of new products brought to market, tackling common problems, addressing key trends, or opening up new opportunities within gardening. I am excited to see what this year’s entrants have to offer. These emerging brands are the lifeblood of our industry and offer retailers the chance to stock something unique. Our Seed Corn Fund allows us to shine a light on these brands and help them kickstart their journey into garden retail.”

The GISCF winners will be announced on the opening day of Glee 2024, with a special ceremony on-stand with GIMA President, Kate Ebbens and Glee Event Director, Matt Mein, in attendance.

Enter the 2024 GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund

Businesses interested in entering the GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund in 2024 are invited to do so by visiting www.gima.org.uk/innovators-seed-corn-fund/ and completing the online application form ahead of the Friday 23rd August 2024 deadline.

For further information about GIMA, please call (01959) 564947 or email info@gima.org.uk

In the King's Speech alongside the State Opening of Parliament, the new Labour government's legislative priorities were set out with a focus on delivering growth commitments. Several bills indicated in the speech will impact or provide an opportunity for UK environmental horticulture, including; planning, net-zero transition and retail crime.

UK Horticulture is a green growth industry that helps to deliver on crucial government ambitions, from economic to environmental, from net-zero to health and well-being. As a sector supporting nearly 700,000 jobs and £28.8 billion in GDP contributions, it must not be overlooked as a key UK business sector. 

Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, commented: “The King’s Speech is the first clear indicator of the immediate legislative priorities of this new Government and we await the full details of the ambitions announced.

“While we see a growth agenda being pursued, as a sector, we can support the government to deliver on its ambitions. Environmental horticulture is a uniquely positioned industry, with significant potential for growth, delivering a stronger economy, biodiverse flora production to mitigate climate change, flooding and air pollution, greening urban areas and new developments, an increase in mental and physical health benefits and provide an exciting industry to start an apprenticeship or green career. I am really encouraged by the potential that our sector has.”

“We share the ambition to speed up planning as our businesses seek to grow, develop, and embed green space planning and maintenance from day one of designing the homes and urban green areas of our future.

“With an ambition to build 1.5million new homes, we urge the government to set out how developments should incorporate at least 29.5% space for garden density to maintain the current proportion of Britain’s urban residential gardens.

“We welcome the statement to “seek to reset the relationship with European partners and work to improve the UK's trade and investment relationship with the European Union”. The HTA continue to raise concerned over our member’s ability to import plant goods from the continent. We are calling on the government to ensure a veterinary and plant health agreement with the EU is a priority.

“The HTA have long called for apprenticeship levy reform and we are encouraged by the potential of the new Skills England body – we look forward to environmental horticulture being a prominent part of this so that the next generation of environmental horticulturalists will have clear skills, experience and career paths.

“In regards to employment reform, we are seeking for the government to be mindful of such impacts on SMEs (the vast majority of our membership) and their ability to run businesses that can flourish in local communities.

“Other legislative areas announced, include retail crime, terrorism prevention for large retail spaces, water and energy, are all critical issues impacting horticulture businesses. From retail theft, water resilience challenges to energy security, these all present huge costs to businesses across the sector. We look forward to engaging in the details of the legislation for the industry. We must see the sector to be supported in the transition to net zero. We are ready to help deliver on the ambition and mission to grow.”

The HTA set out its top priorities for a new government in The Environmental Horticulture Manifesto, in which the HTA urged the next government to government to recognise, realise and maximise the value of gardens and green spaces - an opportunity hoped to be grasped by this government.

British garden manufacturer Handy has announced a selection of promotional offers across a wide range of garden machinery to support retailers this Autumn. Retailers can benefit from increased margins on leaf blowers, log splitters, chainsaws, accessories, and more – order now in time for the Autumn garden season! 

As summer fades and temperatures drop, gardeners across the UK will shift their focus to Autumn gardening jobs as they prepare for Winter and a healthy and happy garden next year. In this lead-up, having the right Autumn gardening machinery in stock is essential to meet customer needs and provide valuable sales opportunities. 

With the arrival of Autumn comes the bane of the season for many gardeners, clearing fallen leaves.  To make light work of this task, garden blowers and vacuums are an essential piece of garden equipment.  The good news is, that Handy has a selection of unbeatable offers on a wide range of vacuums and blowers across its, Webb, The Handy, Q Garden and Greenworks models.  Also included in Handy’s Autumn offers is the Webb Eco Cordless Axial Blower with long-lasting interchangeable advanced 20V Lithium-ion technology.  An essential tool for medium-sized gardens, this model provides a powerful and efficient solution for clearing leaves, debris, and grass clippings. 

As gardeners cut back trees and prune light shrubs to keep them healthy for the months ahead, Handy also has a comprehensive range of chainsaws and hedge trimmers available to suit all budgets. 

When it comes to getting rid of all those leaves and branches, a garden shredder offers a practical and convenient solution that can cut through piles of garden waste in minutes. Three shredders are included in Handy’s special Autumn promotions: The Webb Electric Silent Shredder with Collection Box, the Handy Electric Impact Shredder with Box and Detachable Hopper and the Handy Petrol Drum Chipper Shredder. 

Preparing logs for your wood burner, open fire, or cooking range as winter approaches becomes essential for a warm and cosy season. Ensuring customers have a safe and efficient method for splitting logs is crucial. A log splitter can greatly assist with this task. There are three Log Splitter models from The Handy Range. 

Over 100 garden machinery products have been included in Handy’s new Autumn garden machinery promotion, which is available on orders placed before the end of September 2024.  For garden machinery parts and accessories, orders must be placed before the end of October 2024.  

For more information or to receive the Autumn Promotions via email, contact Handy sales@handys.co.uk  You can also visit Handy’s trade website to apply for a trade account at www.handys.co.uk.

Dobbies is celebrating National Allotment Week (12-18 August) by inviting gardening enthusiasts across the country to a series of free Grow How workshops throughout the month, focusing on allotment gardening.

The sessions are designed for both seasoned allotment pros and those just starting out, gaining valuable skills and knowledge to make plots flourish, taking place on the first Saturday of the month, then every Wednesday throughout August at 10.30am and 3.30pm.

Dobbies’ Grow How sessions will equip gardeners on the best late-summer crops to sow in August for a flourishing harvest later in the season, how to prune your summer fruits to maximise its yield and ways you can ready the allotment for any upcoming holidays with watering techniques.

For the month of August, guests attending Grow How sessions will have the chance to donate to the Stroke Association, to mark National Allotment Week. Dobbies has supported Stroke Association for several years. Gardening is known to have a positive impact on both the physical and emotional recovery of stroke survivors and the charity supports several groups with allotments across the UK.

Dobbies’ Plant Buyer, Nigel Lawton, is looking forward to welcoming people along to August’s sessions. He said: “Growing your own produce is something that we’re really passionate about at Dobbies. It is also growing in popularity, as many gardeners recognise the benefits of growing fresh produce in both the taste and the positive impact it can have on physical and mental health. 

“A thriving allotment isn't just about delicious homegrown produce – it's about getting your hands dirty, enjoying the outdoors and feeling a sense of accomplishment. 

“We're thrilled to be working alongside our friends at the Stroke Association to encourage gardeners of all abilities to learn valuable skills and discover how allotments can benefit wellbeing.”

Saul Heselden, Head of Corporate Partnerships at the Stroke Association, said: “Recovering from a stroke can bring lots of challenges, but finding joy in the simple pleasures of nature can make a real difference. Gardening can provide a much-needed boost to both your physical and mental health, and allotments provide an affordable way for people to experience the benefits of gardening, while also growing their own produce.

“Right now, the Stroke Association can only reach one-third of the survivors who most need support. We want to reach all those in need, but we can only do this with the generosity of our supporters like Dobbies. We’re incredibly grateful they have chosen to fundraise through the Grow How workshops and raise vital funds for people affected by stroke.”

Dobbies is also a sponsor of the Stroke Association’s Strength in Bloom virtual garden, where visitors are invited to donate by planting symbolic flowers and trees, or selecting a plaque to dedicate to an individual affected by stroke.

Find out more www.stroke.org.uk/garden/virtual.

For more information about Dobbies’ Grow How August session, visit www.dobbies.com\events.

Apta is poised to revolutionise this product category once again with a substantial expansion of its product line for the 2025 season. This eagerly awaited reveal will take place at the forthcoming Glee trade exhibition (10th - 12th September, NEC Birmingham) and promises to captivate garden centre buyers.

It has been confirmed that ahead of season 25, Apta’s core offering will increase by an impressive 70%, introducing a variety of new products across its popular glazed and composite ranges. Apta’s terracotta offering will also be expanded with new designs, in direct response to the growing demand from UK shoppers which has seen terracotta enjoy a resurgence thanks to its traditional styling, Mediterranean influences and natural, earthy qualities.

Introducing Apta Signature

A key highlight of Apta’s 2025 launch will also be the exclusive introduction of four brand-new glazed collections under the banner of Apta Signature. Designed to offer a more collectible, mix-and-match experience, these collections feature complementary colours and sizes, encouraging consumers to return time and time again to expand their garden pottery collection, whilst also increasing the gifting potential of pots and planters.

What’s more, Apta Signature has been carefully considered and will come ready for retailers in a convenient, ready-to-merchandise pallet. This innovative solution allows garden centres to effortlessly receive and display the products, making it easier than ever to start selling immediately upon delivery of the pallet.

Paul North, MD at the AMES Companies said: “We are incredibly excited to unveil our expanded range at Glee 2024. Apta has undergone a number of exciting redevelopments in recent years in a move to better safeguard its position as one of the industry’s leading pot brands, and these latest expansions form an important part of this story and are representative of Apta’s biggest ever single expansion.  These new collections not only reflect current trends but also offer practical solutions for both retailers and consumers. We’ve no doubt that this new chapter for Apta will drive continued growth and engagement within garden centres throughout 2025.”

Find out more

Apta can be found alongside the wider AMES Companies family of brands at Glee this year, where the company is poised to launch over 700 new products! To see them for yourself join the team in Hall 8, stand A80-D81, A60-C61 or contact your local AMES Companies sales agent for more information.

Further details about the AMES Companies and its family of brands, including Kelkay, AMES Tools, La Hacienda, and Apta, can be found at www.ames-uk.com.

The Old Railway Line Garden Centre, located between Brecon and Hay-on-Wye, has won the ‘Garden Centre of the Year’ award in the Midlands, Wales & West at the regional annual Garden Centre Association (GCA) Awards.

This independent garden centre is the first to win this award, marking the inaugural event for this new region. In addition to the prestigious top prize in the ‘Garden Centre’ category, the family-run business also collected several other awards, including ‘Best Food Hall’, ‘Best Customer Service’, and ‘The GIMA Award for Best Garden Products Retailer’. They secured second place in the ‘Indoor Lifestyle’, ‘Catering’, and ‘Environment and Sustainability’ categories, and third place in ‘Commercial Innovation’. They were also shortlisted for the ‘Ruxley Rose (Best Plantaria in the UK)’ award, moving on to a second round of judging.

Katie Eckley, Director of Operations, said, “We are thrilled to have been recognized as ‘Garden Centre of the Year’ in the Midlands, Wales & West. Having won ‘Best Garden Centre’ in the Wales & West region for nine years running, followed by two years of ‘Best Destination Garden Centre’, we are honoured to be recognised again, especially in a much larger region. These awards are a testament to our amazing, committed, and hard-working team who fully embrace our values and ethos, including offering the best customer service possible.”

Joe Aldworth, Marketing & Ecommerce Director, added, “We are over the moon to have been recognised for the top award yet again. Our priority is always people—our customers and our amazing team. We love to create an enjoyable experience for visitors with something different around every corner. We could not have achieved this without the support and dedication of our team, and we thank them profusely for their unwavering commitment.”

Garden Centre Inspector Colin Farquhar commented, “People make the difference in garden centres. This is both the workforce and the customers. It was pleasing on my visits to see both groups interacting and creating an environment in which people genuinely seemed to be enjoying themselves. While some shopping can be seen as a chore, garden centre shopping should be viewed as entertainment and one in which all participants want to be there. I was so heartened on my visits to see this in action.”

Register for your free copy from Monday at https://www.autumnfair.com/visitor-registration

The UK’s largest seasonal showcase for Home, Gift & Fashion, Autumn Fair, has launched this season’s The Little Black Book – the buyer’s go-to guide for the show taking place from 1-4 September 2024 at NEC Birmingham.

This is your only chance to get your hands on the ultimate buyers preview to what’s on at Autumn Fair. You must register before 28th July to receive a printed copy sent to your front door.

The Little Black Book is packed full of information to help buyers start planning their visit, including the exhilarating lineup of new and returning exhibitors across the show’s three sought-after buying destinations - Gift, Home, and Fashion, and 10 product sectors including growth sectors Beauty & Wellbeing and Fashion Accessories.

To spend less time finding the products and more time experiencing them, buyers can use The Little Black Book to navigate the show and discover with ease using the Autumn Fair show floor plan, find key brands with the A-Z Exhibitor List of over 800 exhibitors, take an exclusive look at the latest products, and a snapshot of exciting buyer initiatives.

The Little Black Book Week launches on Monday 22nd until Sunday 28th July, offering UK buyers the opportunity to get their hands on a copy of this exclusive show preview. For a chance to receive one of the limited printed copies of this free go-to-guide for all things happening at Autumn Fair delivered straight to your door, register by Sunday. Copies will be delivered week commencing 5th August.

Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director, Autumn Fair says, “The Little Black Book has become the buyer’s bible, a sought-after publication that helps them to curate their best-selling collections at the show, discover thousands of exciting new products, and be inspired. Autumn Fair 2024 looks set to be the ultimate seasonal buying showcase so register for your free copy now to get a head start on your visit.”

With over 500,000 window-worthy products waiting to be discovered, don't miss out on getting your copy, sign up by 28th July to get your FREE copy delivered straight to your door. Digital copies of The Little Black Book will also be sent to everyone who registers.

To register for Autumn Fair and be in with a chance of receiving a free copy of The Little Black Book visit https://www.autumnfair.com/visitor-registration.

To register visit https://www.autumnfair.com/visitor-registration

The UK’s largest seasonal showcase for Home, Gift & Fashion, Autumn Fair 2024 has announced the exclusive return of My Gifts Trade and many more inspirational brands to The Summerhouse at the next show taking place on 1-4 September at NEC Birmingham.

Renowned as the premier destination for discovering the finest and most aspirational lifestyle designs including high-end furnishings, style-led interior décor, accessories and gifts, The Summerhouse is a must-visit at Autumn Fair.

Gareth Watkins, Key Account Director, Autumn Fair says, “With its keen eye on emerging trends, The Summerhouse offers a coveted showcase of a diverse range of styles from Scandinavian and rustic chic to artisanal and quirky. Be inspired and immerse yourself in the beauty and style of this sector and discover a curated selection of much-loved and new lifestyle brands. Get in touch if you want the opportunity to be part of this beautiful space.”

My Gifts Trade Returns

My Gifts Trade is delighted to return exclusively to Autumn Fair in 2024. Alongside its best-selling products from prestigious brands such as Costa Nova, Que Rico, and Cosy Homes, My Gifts Trade will launch new must-have brands this September. Since 2014, the company has grown its homewares business through collaborations with leading UK designers like Hinchcliffe and Barber, Sara Miller London, and I Like Birds. Their exclusive UK distribution of high-quality European brands, including Costa Nova and Gusta, continues to expand.

Operating from a 1,200m² warehouse near Manchester, My Gifts Trade efficiently distributes to leading high street retailers, independent gift stores, garden centres, and e-commerce platforms, ensuring hundreds of orders reach customers worldwide daily. With this season’s collection, immerse yourself in a curated range that brings together the opulence of Luxe Deco, the vibrant allure of Marrakesh, the golden hues of Autumnal Glow, the indulgent pleasures of Gourmet, the elegance of Glassware, and the comforting embrace of a Cosy Home.

Introducing Tokyo Design Studio

Now distributing Tokyo Design Studio, My Gifts Trade brings the leading European brand of Asian tableware and giftware to the UK. Inspired by Japanese culture and craftsmanship, Tokyo Design Studio offers beautifully handcrafted tableware primarily manufactured in Japan. These unique products, complemented by tea sets and chopsticks, are perfect for both tableware and gifting, appealing to the growing interest in Asian cuisine at home. The brand is already a favourite in renowned European stores such as Galeries Lafayette, La Rinascente, and Bijenkorf.

Dutch Decor and Hoii: Elevating Home Textiles

Dutch Décor, a leading European source for stylish home textiles, returns with a new range of cushions and throws designed and sourced from India and the Far East. Known for luxurious fabrics and sustainable practices, Dutch Décor showcases a palette of beige tones and popular teddy materials this season. The brand is committed to sustainability, holding certifications like Oeko-Tex Standard 100, the Better Cotton Initiative, and the Global Recycled Standard.

Hoii, Dutch Décor's sister brand, takes quality and design to new heights with luxurious cushions and throws inspired by global cultures, architecture, and art. Featuring vibrant patterns and handmade finishes, Hoii products add a touch of class to any home setting.

Casa Verde's Exciting New Collection

Casa Verde, known for its long-standing heritage and collaboration with prestigious UK institutions such as the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew and the National Trust, is excited to launch its new AW24 collection at Autumn Fair. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, Casa Verde has thrived, delivering beautifully designed products from its base in Mallorca to the UK market.

Basque Glass: A New Rustic Collection

Discover the Basque Glass collection, inspired by the rural life of Spain. This collection features beautifully thick glass pieces with tiny bubbles, combining simplicity with elegance. The new Antique Silver colourway of the infamous Pear Decorations and the stunning Silver Sardine Decorations are highlights of this season’s Christmas collection.

Discover New Collections and Heritage Favourites

Visitors to The Summerhouse will also find new collections from One World, Tommy Franks, Deluxe HomeArt, Blooms by Samuel Baker, plus heritage favourites such as Hot Tomato, Bronte by Moon, Inis Energy of the Sea, and Edge Company. Chalk UK makes its debut in The Summerhouse, adding to the excitement and diversity of offerings.

Experience the future of homeware and gifts at The Summerhouse, where emerging trends and timeless elegance come together. Attend Autumn Fair 2024 for an unparalleled journey through style, innovation, and design.

To find out more visit https://www.autumnfair.com/show-sectors/summerhouse.

To be part of The Summerhouse line-up contact gareth.watkins@autumnfair.com

Two leading commercial UK nurseries based in Herefordshire have held a charity football match to raise funds for Dementia UK.

Wyevale Nurseries played Allensmore Nurseries at Whitecross High School in Hereford, and so far, the event has raised more than £300 for the charity.

Sam Lloyd, Wyevale Nurseries’ Potting Shed Supervisor, who organised the match, said: “The game was dedicated to the memory of Brian Taylor, founder of Allensmore Nurseries, who passed away recently. The winner’s cup has been named the Brian Taylor Memorial Cup too.

“It was a fabulous afternoon with great comradery and a healthy level of competition between the two company’s teams and plenty of supporters came along to cheer on their favourite side as well. After full time, the game ended at one all, but Allensmore went on to secure the win with penalties.

“All monies raised will be forwarded to Dementia UK. We are hoping that other nurseries may be interested in putting a team forward for our next event and we grow this into a mini tournament in the future. If anyone is interested, they should make contact with us or Allensmore.”

Brian Taylor, who was the well-known and respected Chairman of Allensmore Nurseries and started the business with his wife Ruth more than 50 years ago, died in May this year.

He never retired and remained a presence around the nursery and enjoyed many years judging at Royal Horticultural Society shows and being part of the industry, which he loved.

Mark Taylor, Managing Director at Allensmore Nurseries, said: “It was a great afternoon, thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. My father would be so proud that the teams organised this for a great cause and in his memory.”

Wyevale Nurseries’ product selection is envied across the industry and its 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.

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

A former police officer who harnessed the power of horticulture to help support victims of crime has been named the first RHS Career Changer of the Year at RHS Flower Show Tatton Park 2024.

Chris Reynolds’ The Safe Space Garden was also awarded a gold medal in the category of Career Changers at the show. The category made its debut this year.

Ashleigh Aylett, who designed The Woodland Trust: 49% Garden highlighting the efforts made by the charity to address the loss of nearly half of Britain’s trees outside of woods, was named RHS Young Designer of the Year 2024. Her garden was also awarded Best Construction within the Young Designer category.

Of the Show Gardens, Ollie Pike picked up Best in Show and a gold medal for This Garden Isn’t Finished Without You, a celebration of the inclusivity of the garden’s sponsor, The Methodist Church.

Christine Leung’s Glean, a relaxing kitchen garden with sustainable food growing at its core, was awarded the Best Terrace Garden prize.  

My Name’5 Doddie, by Pip Probert, which raises awareness of Motor Neurone Disease in memory of the late rugby player, was awarded the Best Construction of a Show Garden Award.

This year, the popular show celebrated its 25th anniversary as it prepares to next return to the site in 2027.

Sarah Poll, RHS Head of Shows Development, said: “Yet again, RHS Tatton Park has excited, provoked and inspired with some of the most innovative designs of the current generation of garden designers. We’ve got show veterans celebrated alongside career changers making their debut at an RHS show, and all of them have produced some absolutely show-stopping designs.

“RHS Tatton Park is fun, thoughtful and beautiful, and we would like to thank and congratulate everybody who has taken part. We hope they have enjoyed it as much as we have.”

RHS Flower Show Tatton Park takes place from 17-21 July. Tickets can be bought here: www.rhs.org.uk/tatton

The four Wyevale Nurseries sponsored ‘Long Border’ designs featured at the RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park this week have won three Silvers and one Bronze Medal.

The winning designs were put together by final year Landscape Architect students from the University of Gloucestershire to meet the RHS challenge of ‘Make a Statement’. 

Wyevale Nurseries’ Amenity Sales Executive, Alan Young explains: “We’re so delighted to be able to share this brilliant news and to have been part of these great wins.

“All four of the entries sponsored by us this year, featuring our plants, scooped awards. It’s a tremendous achievement for everyone involved and we couldn’t be more pleased for the students. The judges, like us, were obviously impressed with their great concepts and brilliant ideas, and all their hard work has really paid off. It was a privilege for us to have been part of this process too.

“Of the four borders we sponsored ‘Authenticity’ by Cara Gaffney, Kaci Purnell and Katie Bishop, ‘Temporal Bloom Odyssey’ by Bayley Blyther, Ashley Woollaston and Jessica Richardson and ‘Nectar Nook’ by Megan Chopp, Phoebe Hunt and Ayomide Palmer all received Silver Medals. ‘Growth Begins with Reflection’ by Victoria Bettany, Eloise Wood and Sophie Wiseman was awarded a Bronze Medal.”

Each year at Tatton, the Long Border offers an exciting opportunity for designers, gardeners and horticultural students to showcase their creativity, inspire visitors and potentially earn a prestigious RHS medal too.

‘Authenticity’ is themed around self-expression and human interconnectedness and includes an array of plants from the robust to the refined, each chosen for their distinctive characteristics. Central to the border is an interwoven willow ring, representative of the unity and strength found in both diversity and living as one’s authentic self.

The ‘Temporal Bloom Odyssey’ border offers a captivating journey through the narrative of time and change with key features representing the past, present, and future. Vibrant blooms and abstract textures are key to this design.

‘Nectar Nook’ emphasises how a small space can make a significant impact. The design integrates pollinator-supporting elements like shelters, burrow sites and Fragaria (wild strawberry) for nourishment. The selection of plants – particularly those in the ultraviolet colour spectrum, like Eremurus robustus (giant desert candle), alliums and lupins – is intended to attract pollinators, complemented by visual interest.

Meanwhile, ‘Growth Begins with Reflection’ is inspired by the work of the artist Frida Kahlo, this thought-provoking border explores the effects that the pressures of social media have on our mental health. The space is split into two sections: expression and repression.

More details of the gardens and some of the plants that were included in each of them can be found on the show’s website page here Long Borders at RHS Flower Show Tatton Park 2024 / RHS Gardening.

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.

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

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Neal Ritson, who won the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation’s Brian Crosby Scholarship in 2023, will be running Ultra X Wales 50 on the 28^th July 2024, raising funds for the Foundation.

50km across Snowdonia National Park, tackling 1,830m of elevation. That is hard core!

Neal said:“I am using this opportunity to fundraise for the Foundation, this fantastic charity helps to support Horticulturalists of the future. They have helped me and I’m really glad to now be able to give something back.”

Please sponsor him via his JustGiving page https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/neal-ritson-ultra-50

Every little helps to spur Neal on, think of that distance but the climb too …

The Commercial Horticultural Association (CHA) has confirmed that it is currently organising the UK exhibitor group; many exhibitors have already signed up. 

Following a busy and productive event in 2024, the UK exhibitor pavilion at IPM 2025 is filling up fast.

IPM Essen is the international trade fair for plants and the world’s leading trade fair for horticulture, showcasing the entire value chain for plants, including production, technology, floristry, garden features and point of sale.

In 2024, 1,403 exhibitors and over 36,000 visitors attended the event from all over the world.

“The British group pavilion and industry information stand is in a prime location, in the Hall 7 nursery/plants sector and our companies really benefit from this prominent space. We have re-booked most of our exhibitors from the last edition, so companies that wish to exhibit in 2025 should contact us as soon as possible,” Emma Brazier, CHA Event Manager commented.

Exhibitors in the group that have confirmed so far include Air-Pot®, David Austin Roses, Garden Centre Design Company – C Long Studios, Raymond Evison Clematis/The Guernsey Clematis Nursery, PPC Labels, Pinnacle Plants International and Tyne Moulds and Machinery.

In 2024, the UK pavilion participants noted the truly international profile of the contacts they met at the show:

Kate Porter, Head of International Partner Network, David Austin Roses commented: “There’s nothing else like it in terms of international reach for our team - it’s the only show which offers the opportunity to draw international visitors.”

Jeremy Watkinson, Managing Director PPC Labels said: “IPM is the best show in Europe for ornamental horticulture and is the most important show that we do.”

Companies wishing to book a stand on the UK pavilion and benefit from all the logistical and promotional advantages of being part of the CHA UK exhibitor group should contact Emma Brazier.

More information on the CHA and the UK pavilion can be found here: 

https://www.cha-hort.com/ipm-essen

Dave Denny, HTA Director of Research and Insights, will speak on Consumer Behaviours at Horticulture, The Conference on 25 September 2024 at the ICC, Birmingham.

Dave will discuss how global consumer, environmental, technology and regulatory trends are set to affect existing markets for UK horticulture and create new ones as part of the UK’s potential for green growth. This session will provide insights into emerging and converging standards affecting how information will be shared through the supply chain, ultimately providing the consumer with more information on environmental impacts, traceability, and biosecurity through the supply chain.

Find out more here

SALTEX has announced a record-breaking number of official media partners for the upcoming 2024 show, Europe's premier sports turf, amenities, and landscaping exhibition. The outstanding level of partnerships highlights the growing importance of SALTEX for the industry.

This year, we are delighted to welcome a renowned group of trade publications and media outlets that will provide extensive coverage for the show. Our partners include both long-standing industry leaders and new voices, giving SALTEX a broad media presence across the grounds care industry.

The media partners represent the pinnacle of industry-related media and will play a pivotal role in showcasing the latest innovations and developments at SALTEX.

Our official media partners for SALTEX 2024 include: AgriFJ, BAGMA, Building and Facilities News, Clerks and Councils, Cricket World, Farm Diversity Magazine, Football and Stadium Management, Golf Business News, Golf Course Architecture, Golf Management, Government Business, Greenkeeping, Grounds Management, Groundskeeping Journal, Holiday Park Scene, Horticultural Week, Landscape and Urban Design, LAPU Landscape Specification eBulletin, Pitchcare, Service Dealer, Sports Nation, Sportsfield.info, The Golf Business, The Landscaper, Turf Business, Turf Matters, Turf Pro.

Jennifer Carter, GMA Director Of Communications and Marketing said: "Our trade media has consistently supported SALTEX over many years, and with this year's show already demonstrating record-breaking partnerships and promising figures in terms of confirmed exhibitors and visitor registrations, we’re expecting one of the most successful events yet.

“We are really pleased to join forces with our media partners to keep industry colleagues informed with the latest developments at SALTEX 2024. We extend a warm invitation to all to join us at the NEC in Birmingham for what promises to be an unmissable event."

Visitors and exhibitors can look forward to extensive coverage, exclusive interviews and product highlights, making sure that the industry's latest developments are widely available.

For more information on attending or exhibiting at SALTEX 2024, which takes place at the NEC Birmingham on October 30^th & 31^st, please visit https://www.saltex.org.uk/.

With a sold-out fair floor of the third autumn edition of PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt, visitors may expect a complete, new and highly diverse range of outdoor plants. On top of the group of loyal exhibitors another forty new exhibitors will be presenting their products. So plenty of new things to be discovered!

Fair manager Marjolein Wieckardt is very satisfied with the sold-out fair floor. “We have been able to create extra room for stands in the halls by accommodating the products submitted for the Green Retail Awards and the large catering patio in a spacious, light, air-conditioned marquee outside the building. The fact that these extra square metres have now also been booked shows without doubt that the fair is the number-one place to be to present your products, meet new business relations and receive orders. Although we’re sold out, I’d still like to urge any companies that would like to participate in the fair to report to me by next week at the latest. We’re always prepared to see whether we can arrange some extra space after all.”

Still room for visitors and novelties

PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt is well known for its large range of novelties. With the Green Retail Awards, the fair organisers promote developments in the field of innovation in the range. The inspections offer an appealing platform for putting new products and concepts in the spotlight, so please do register your product and/or concept for assessment. The closing date for registration via the website is 11 August.

Last edition showed that many visitors from both the Netherlands and many other countries flock to the fair. The fair is exclusively accessible to professional visitors. Advance registration via the website will guarantee quick entry to the fair. If you intend to arrive in a group and/or by coach, please contact the fair organisers to arrange fast admission.

About PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt

Along with GROEN-Direkt’s Autumn Fair, PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt, the Green Retail Fair, is the ideal place for suppliers and everyone else professionally involved in the green sector to meet one another. The fair also pays lots of attention to novelties and innovations. The next edition will take place on 21 and 22 August 2024. The fair will take place in and around GROEN-Direkt’s hall at the International Trade Centre in the Dutch town of Hazerswoude/Boskoop. Next to the permanent fair building will be a spacious, light, airconditioned marquee surrounded by large patios for indoor and outdoor catering. So whatever the weather, the fair will offer you a perfect, attractive environment in which to meet and talk to people, conduct negotiations and generally have a great time.  For more information and to register your participation or visit, go to the website: plantariumgroendirekt.nl.

Garden centre staff throughout the GCA East region are celebrating today after picking up awards during a presentation at Coton Orchard Garden Centre yesterday evening (Wednesday).

The Garden Centre of the Year winners were Perrywood Tiptree (above) in the Destination Garden Centre (DGC) category, Aylett Nurseries (below) for the Garden Centre (GC) category and Parker’s Garden Centre, for the Local Garden Centre (LGC).

Peter Burks, GCA CEO, said: “Our East regional awards meeting was joyous. I’d like to thank everyone who attended. It was the last of our summer regional award meetings and it was a wonderful gathering of more than 50 people from our member garden centres in the area.

“We’re very grateful to our fabulous hosts for the evening – the team at Blue Diamond’s Coton Orchard Garden Centre. They gave us all a very warm welcome and provided some great hospitality.

“It was enlightening, during the evening, to hear our Inspector, Phil McCann’s feedback from his visits to this area’s centres. Members can now take his vital insights back to their centres, celebrate any wins, motivate their teams to maintain their current levels, or make any changes needed to attain higher standards next time.”

Phil was responsible for inspecting member garden centres in the East area across a 12-week period where he made unannounced visits.

He said: “A great turnout from dedicated and committed GCA members in the East region for the pre-inspection event resulted in a great start to the inspection window.

“Every centre I visited displayed superb retail practice and customer service. Backed up with quality plants and gardening and lifestyle products resulting in the best experiences for customers and myself!

“I know that customer service is so important to the public and GCA garden centres put this to the forefront of their thinking. I witnessed superb customer service in many centres. Plus, I got to sample some great cakes and the coffee was even better! It was a great inspection year, revealing some very high standards.”

The full results, including runners up, where relevant, for the East region GCA area awards are as follows for the DGC, GC and LGC categories:

Garden Centre of the Year:

DCG

1. Perrywood Garden Centre, Tiptree
2. Van Hage Garden Centre, Great Amwell – Blue Diamond
3. Scotsdales Garden Centre

GC

1. Aylett Nurseries
2. Perrywood Garden Centre, Sudbury
3. Meadow Croft Garden Centre

LGC

1. Parker’s Garden Centre (above)
2. Pennells Garden Centre, Grimsby
3. Rutland Nursery

The Barton Grange Trophy for Commercial Innovation and Creativity

1. Perrywood Garden Centre, Tiptree
2. Meadow Croft Garden Centre
3. Thurrock Garden Centre

The Dick Allen Award for Most Improved Centre:

• Parker’s Garden Centre

Customer Service Award for Best Customer Service:

DCG

1. Perrywood Garden Centre, Tiptree
2. Perrywood Garden Centre, Sudbury
3. Bell Plantation

The Paul Cooling Award for Environment and Sustainability:

1. Perrywood Garden Centre, Tiptree
2. Aylett Nurseries
3. Perrywood Garden Centre, Sudbury

The GIMA Award for Best Garden Products Retailer:

DGC

1. Perrywood Garden Centre, Tiptree
2. Van Hage Garden Centre, Great Amwell – Blue Diamond
3. Brigg Garden Centre

GC

1. Aylett Nurseries
2. Sunshine Garden Centre
3. Thurrock Garden Centre

LGC

1. Parker’s Garden Centre
2. Pennells Garden Centre, Grimsby
3. RHS Hyde Hall

The Award for Catering Excellence for Best Garden Centre Restaurant:

DGC

1. Perrywood Garden Centre, Tiptree
2. Van Hage Garden Centre, Great Amwell – Blue Diamond
3. Brigg Garden Centre

GC

1. Thetford Garden Centre
2. Meadow Croft Garden Centre
3. Thurrock Garden Centre

LGC

1. Rutland Nursery
2. Parker’s Garden Centre
3. Pennells Garden Centre, Grimsby

Outdoor Living Award for Best Outdoor Living Retailer:

DGC

1. Perrywood Garden Centre, Tiptree
2. Van Hage Garden Centre, Great Amwell – Blue Diamond
3. Scotsdales Garden Centre

GC

1. Poplars Garden Centre
2. Meadow Croft Garden Centre
3. Sunshine Garden Centre

LGC

1. Parker’s Garden Centre
2. Pennells Garden Centre, Grimsby
3. British Garden Centres, Enfield

Indoor Lifestyle Award for Best Indoor Lifestyle Retailer:

DGC

1. Perrywood Garden Centre, Tiptree
2. Brigg Garden Centre
3. Bicester Avenue Garden Centre – Blue Diamond

GC

1. Yarnton Home & Garden
2. Squires Garden Centre, Shepperton
3. Aylett Nurseries

LGC

1. Rutland Nursery
2. Parker’s Garden Centre
3. Pennells Garden Centre, Grimsby

Ian Boardman Award for Best Indoor Plants Retailer:

DGC

1. Perrywood Garden Centre, Tiptree
2. Brigg Garden Centre/ Scotsdales Garden Centre – JOINT RUNNERS UP
3. Bicester Avenue Garden Centre – Blue Diamond

GC

1. Aylett Nurseries
2. Thurrock Garden Centre /Sunshine – JOINT RUNNERS UP
3. Meadow Croft Garden Centre

LGC

1. Rutland Nursery
2. Parker’s Garden Centre
3. Pennells Garden Centre, Grimsby

Plantaria (Ruxley Rose):

DGC

1. Perrywood Garden Centre, Tiptree
2. Van Hage Garden Centre, Great Amwell – Blue Diamond
3. Scotsdales Garden Centre

GC

1. Perrywood Garden Centre, Sudbury
2. Meadow Croft Garden Centre
3. Aylett Nurseries

LGC

1. Parker’s Garden Centre
2. Pennells Garden Centre, Grimsby
3. RHS Hyde Hall

Food Hall/Farm Shop Award

DGC

1. Bicester Avenue Garden Centre – Blue Diamond
2. Brigg Garden Centre
3. Van Hage Garden Centre, Great Amwell – Blue Diamond

GC

1. Bell Plantation
2. Coton Orchard Garden Centre
3. Yarnton Home & Garden /Pennells Garden Centre, Lincoln – JOINT RUNNERS UP

LGC

1. Parker’s Garden Centre
2. Pennells Garden Centre, Sleaford

The Garden Centre Association’s North region members met on Tuesday at Strikes Stokesley Garden Centre for their Area Award presentations.

Destination Garden Centre of the Year, (DGC) was presented to Barton Grange (above), the Garden Centre (GC) award went to Fron Goch Garden Centre (below) and Local Garden Centre (LGC) to Klondyke Garden Centre, Burnside.

Peter Burks, GCA CEO said: “Our North area awards meeting was a triumph! Thank you to all our members who joined us for the event and who brought along their teams too. It was wonderful to see everyone. More than 50 people came along to hear what our Inspector Gordon Emslie had to say and to take on board all his feedback, as well as to celebrate the area’s award wins.

“Well done to all those centres who scooped awards this year. We’re indebted to the team at Strikes Stokesley Garden Centre for hosting us and to Gordon for visiting the centres and presenting his findings in such a great way. It was great to see so many people taking notes to report back to their centres too.”

Gordon made unannounced visits to member garden centres in the North area across a 12-week period.

He said: “Yet another season where GCA member garden centres have excelled in their delivery of operational standards and customer service. I have again witnessed some outstanding levels of merchandising consistency, which in my view is not seen in other areas of retailing at present.

“This was demonstrated with 50% of centres visited this year achieving the ‘highly commended’ award for scoring 75% or more. Despite all the economic challenges and inconsistency with the weather, the industry yet again showcases what it does best by setting outstanding standards for customers.

“Every centre should be very proud of what it has achieved. I’d encourage members to embrace the inspection process fully moving forward, then they can look ahead and drive their businesses on in a positive manner.”

The full results, including runners up, where relevant, for the North region GCA area awards are as follows for the DGC, GC and LGC categories:

Garden Centre of the Year:

 DCG

1. Barton Grange Garden Centre
2. Bents Garden and Home
3. Gordale Garden Centre

GC

1. Fron Goch Garden Centre
2. Klondyke Garden Centre, Mortonhall
3. Cowell’s Garden Centre

LGC

1. Klondyke Garden Centre, Burnside (above)
2. Klondyke Garden Centre, Howdens
3. Klondyke Garden Centre, Livingston

 The Barton Grange Trophy for Commercial Innovation and Creativity:

1. Bents Garden and Home
2. Barton Grange Garden Centre
3. Simpsons Garden Centre

The Dick Allen Award for Most Improved Centre:

• Fairways Garden Centre, Macclesfield

Customer Service Award for Best Customer Service:

1. Barton Grange Garden Centre
2. Fron Goch Garden Centre
3. Gordale Garden Centre

The Paul Cooling Award for Environment and Sustainability:

1. Fron Goch Garden Centre
2. Bents Garden and Home
3. Barton Grange Garden Centre

The GIMA Award for Best Garden Products Retailer: 

DGC

1. Barton Grange Garden Centre
2. Bents Garden and Home
3. Gordale Garden Centre

GC

1. Klondyke Garden Centre, Mortonhall
2. Simpsons Garden Centre
3. Klondyke Garden Centre, Polmont

LGC

1. Fairways Garden Centre, Macclesfield
2. Klondyke Garden Centre, Burnside
3. Klondyke Garden Centre, Howdens

 The Award for Catering Excellence for Best Garden Centre Restaurant:

DGC

1. Bents Garden and Home
2. Gordale Garden Centre
3. Barton Grange Garden Centre

GC

1. Fron Goch Garden Centre
2. Bellis Brothers Farm Shop & Garden Centre
3. Notcutts Woodford Park Garden Centre 

LGC

1. Klondyke Garden Centre, Howdens
2. Thirsk Garden Centre, British Garden Centres, Bolton, Woodworks Garden Centre & Café & RHS Bridgewater – JOINT RUNNERS UP
3. Creative Gardens Bushmills

Outdoor Living Award for Best Outdoor Living Retailer:

DGC

1. Bents Garden and Home
2. Gordale Garden Centre/Hayes Garden Centre – JOINT RUNNERS UP
3. Barton Grange Garden Cent

GC

1. Fron Goch Garden Centre
2. Klondyke Garden Centre, Stokesley
3. Notcutts Woodford Park Garden Centre

LGC

1. Klondyke Garden Centre, Burnside/Fairways Garden Centre, Macclesfield/ Woodworks Garden Centre & Café – JOINT WINNERS

Indoor Lifestyle Award for Best Indoor Lifestyle Retailer:

DGC

1. Bents Garden and Home
2. Barton Grange Garden Centre
3. Gordale Garden Centre

GC

1. Fron Goch Garden Centre
2. Simpsons Garden Centre
3. Klondyke Garden Centre, Mortonhall

LGC

1. RHS Bridgewater Plant Centre and Shop/Klondyke Garden Centre, Beverley – JOINT WINNERS
2. Klondyke Garden Centre, Howdens
3. Klondyke Garden Centre, Livingston

Ian Boardman Award for Best Indoor Plants Retailer

DGC

1. Bents Garden and Home
2. Hayes Garden Centre
3. Gordale Garden Centre

GC

1. Cowells Garden Centre
2. Klondyke Garden Centre, Mortonhall
3. Notcutts Woodford Park Garden Centre

LGC

1. RHS Bridgewater Plant Centre and Shop/Klondyke Garden Centre, Burnside/Klondyke Garden Centre, Weaver Vale – JOINT WINNERS
2. Klondyke Garden Centre, Howdens
3. Klondyke Garden Centre, Beverley/Harrogate/Fairways Garden Centre, Macclesfield – JOINT RUNNERS UP

Plantaria (Ruxley Rose): 

DGC

1. Barton Grange Garden Centre
2. Bents Garden and Home
3. Gordale Garden Centre

GC

1. Cowell’s Garden Centre
2. Klondyke Garden Centre, Mortonhall
3. Klondyke Garden Centre, Polmont

LGC

1. Klondyke Garden Centre, Livingston
2. Klondyke Garden Centre, Burnside
3. Klondyke Garden Centre, Weaver Vale

Food Hall/Farm Shop Award

DGC

1. Bents Garden and Home/Barton Grange Garden Centre – JOINT WINNERS
2. Tong Garden Centre
3. Gordale Garden Centre

GC

1. Bellis Brothers Farm Shop & Garden Centre
2. Klondyke Garden Centre, Mortonhall
3. Simpsons Garden Centre

LGC – please note, there are only two garden centres in this category

1. Klondyke Garden Centre, Beverley
2. Dunbar Garden Centre

In its July Market Update, the Horticultural Trades Association reports that challenging trading conditions for garden centres continued in June 2024. Despite a general improvement in consumer confidence, ongoing adverse wet weather significantly affected sales in core gardening categories. 

Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, commented: “In June 2024, we saw a 3% decrease in garden centre sales compared to June 2023. The bad weather has been a common theme for 2024. Sunshine hours in June, which are always critical to sales performance, were at just 72% of the levels for June 2023—days which also saw rainfall increase compared to 2023, making for challenging trading in garden categories. There isn’t anything that we can do as the HTA to change the weather, but what we can and are going to do is champion the importance of our sector to the new government to ensure they put in place policies and regulations that will help mitigate the effects of this volatile weather and ask that they review the funding available to SMEs to adapt to our ever-changing climate.

“Sales in core gardening ranges and plants always bear the brunt of poor weather, and we are seeing that after the first six months of the year, sales of bedding plants are down 2% compared with the first six months of 2023, with hardy plants and trees down 7%. Specifically, bedding plants saw an 11% drop in sales in June, while hardy plants and trees experienced a 7% decline. Garden furniture sales were also notably impacted, falling by 38% compared to June 2023, with the summer scent of barbecues significantly absent -5%.

“In contrast, indoor ranges and non-gardening categories continued to perform strongly. Catering sales surged by 16% year-on-year, food and farm shop sales increased by 22%, and wild bird care saw a significant boost, with sales up by 23%.

“Consumer confidence in June 2024 improved for the third consecutive month, reaching -14, the highest score since November 2021. This increase is attributed to a falling inflation rate and a more optimistic view of the country's general economic situation.

"While the adverse weather has undoubtedly impacted our core gardening sales, the robust performance of indoor and non-gardening categories shows that garden centres remain a vital destination for consumers. We are optimistic that the rising consumer confidence and strategic focus on upcoming seasonal ranges will bolster sales in the coming months. With better weather finally being forecast and people keen to spend more time outdoors in their gardens, there is cautious optimism about recovering some of the lost ground. We hope that the July weather improves significantly.” 

For further details on the June 2024 market performance, please refer to our website's full HTA Market Update report available to HTA members.

Promoting bigger, healthier, and happier plants and produce, Organic Superfood liquid feeds has started its debut season well, with gardening retailers reporting positive sales results for the value-added ecofective® range. 

From farm to family

Originating from a UK farm, Organic Superfood feeds are a by-product of anaerobic digestion, a process wherein microorganisms decompose organic matter without oxygen, yielding biogas and digestate. The biogas is exported back to the national grid in the form of sustainable energy, powering over 2000 homes and businesses.  Where the digestate, abundant in nutrients, serves as an outstanding natural fertiliser for our ecofective Organic Superfood liquid feeds. These feeds are also infused with organic seaweed plus natural humic acids (present in traditional farm manure) to make the Organic Superfood formulation, a truly wonderful addition for optimum plant and soil health.

As a result, Organic Superfood provides plants, fruit and veg with everything they need to thrive in a truly organic way. With no nasty ingredients the family friendly range is child and pet safe, wildlife friendly and kinder to the planet. 

The right choice for the planet

ecofective® are proud to develop products that enable gardeners to make the right choice for both their plants and the planet. The new Organic Superfood liquid range is available in an 800ml bottle and a brand new 1.2 litre flexible pouch that uses up to 70% less plastic compared to that of a rigid plastic bottle. The flexible pouch offers significant advantages: it’s more compact and lightweight than a rigid bottle and consumes less energy throughout its lifecycle. This includes reduced energy usage in manufacturing, transportation to production sites, delivery to stores, and users’ homes. Less plastic material used also results in less waste to collect, sort and recycle!

As well as reducing plastic consumption, ecofective® Organic Superfood reduces the reliance on synthetic fertilisers, which can have negative impacts on the environment. As a result, the vegan-friendly feeds are supporting healthier ecosystems creating happy plants and a happy planet! 

Great results, even better value

Originating from the award-winning Organic Superfood powdered feed, Organic Superfood liquid feeds provide gardeners with increased crop yields and bigger brighter blooms, due to its support in root development and during stress conditions such as heat, drought and over watering. 

ecofective® Organic Superfood for All Plants is a concentrate formula that provides healthy vibrant flowers and bumper crops of fruit and vegetables to include peppers and chillies. 

ecofective® Organic Superfood for Tomatoes is also a concentrate solution that encourages the plants to take up nutrients quickly, giving results sooner, for happier, healthier, tastier tomatoes. This formula can also be used on other fruit and veg.

As well as offering highly effective plant feeds, ecofective® Organic Superfood 1.2 litre pouches are supplied as a value-added launch promotion with 50% extra formula (RRP £7.99) providing up to 50 watering cans of feed in total. The 50% extra promotion also features on ecofective® Organic Seaweed, a natural growth stimulant for all plants. The 50% extra deal is highlighted on pack and point of sale options, meaning the special offer can be easily seen by shoppers in store. With impactful weatherproof packaging retailers can ensure vibrant instore presence when merchandised indoors and in outdoor environments.

Join the ecofective® revolution, a brand that is safer for families, good for garden wildlife and kinder to the planet. Speak to the Sipcam Home & Garden team today to find out how you can become a stockist of Organic Superfood Liquid Feeds - enquiries@sipcamhg.co.uk.

Corby + Fellas has announced a new partnership, one of many in the next few months, this time with Scott’s of Southend Garden Centre.

The Garden Centre is based in Rochford, and offers an extensive range of quality plants, seeds, bulbs, providing you with all that you need to make your garden stunning. In addition, Scott’s Kitchen offers an extensive range for breakfast, lunch, afternoon teas and Sunday Roasts – and as well as the large restaurant, it is complimented by a beautiful garden for you to enjoy your meal, all brought to your table. Online booking is available and recommended.

Scott’s backyard offers a wonderful range of BBQ’s, furniture, and food, and offers a wide selection of events.

This was the second phase of WinRetail being implemented to the EAF (Essex Animal Feeds) Group, after implementing the system at the groups three pet stores in Essex, earlier this year.

In addition to the Standard WinRetail Core, Corby + Fellas will be providing Scott’s with our powerful CRM+, Customer Experience APP, DigiTickets integration, and Sage 200 interface, as well as the new Restaurant Table Service Application, with Pin on Glass.

Kara Webb, FD, who managed the project with C+F’s Matt Chrisostomou said “The project has been run very well from start to finish. Matt took the time to understand the needs of the business on both projects and to find solutions that worked for us. I can see that WinRetail will help to improve our efficiency and reduce manual data input. We look forward to using the capabilities of the system to improve and grow our businesses”

We look forward to a long-standing partnership with Scott, Kara, and the Scott’s of Southend team.

GTN June/July 2024 – SOLEX Preview.  In this issue: Bring on the plants – GTN talks to Hannah Cook, Welcome to NOVA’s new Experience Centre, A Bridgerton Chelsea Flower Show, More showrooms to visit , Outdoor adventures with Fandango Fire Tools, SOLEX 2024 – GTN’s 26-page show preview, SOLEX show floor plan, Welcome to the SOLEX Afterparty and Awards, Celebrating BBQ Hero’s at SOLEX, Bramblecrest on a mission, News and latest products from SOLEX exhibitors, SOLEX green initiatives, Greenfingers opens new garden, NOVA brand and business model revamp, GIMA golf day, Glee’s 50 Year Hero’s, Chelsea’s plant winners- GTN’s Planteria, Promoting the industry - HTA Viewpoint, Innovation driving retail – GIMA Viewpoint.