Blue Diamond has acquired Yarnton Home & Garden, a thriving garden centre located north of Oxford, which has undergone significant investment and transformation.

Yarnton Home & Garden stands as a flourishing, high-end, multi-award-winning centre and Blue Diamond is looking forward to building on these strong foundations to lead the centre into a successful future.

Alan Roper, CEO of The Blue Diamond Group, commented: “Yarnton Home & Garden is a business that is much loved by its customers. The team there has worked incredibly hard to transform the centre into what it is today, and I look forward to driving the business on into the future and welcoming it into our portfolio.”

Glen Sheldrake, MD of Yarnton Home & Garden, said: “With a strong and entrepreneurial team, we have positioned the centre as a key destination in the area. The time is now right for new ownership, and I am delighted to pass the reins to Alan Roper. Alan is highly respected in the industry and truly understands the best way to take the business forward”

The acquisition of Yarnton Home & Garden reflects Blue Diamond’s ongoing strategy to expand its portfolio of high-quality garden centres. With this addition, Blue Diamond reinforces its commitment to offering exceptional customer experiences and further strengthening its presence in the UK garden centre market.

Blue Diamond is one of the UK’s leading garden centre groups, known for its focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The group operates 48 garden centres across the UK and is dedicated to enhancing the gardening and lifestyle experience for its customers. https://www.bluediamond.gg/

Yarnton Home and Garden is a multi-award-winning garden centre that is host to a beautiful Magic Garden in-door play area, café and home and garden shop. It is a destination store with customer service and quality at its core. https://www.yarntonhomegarden.co.uk/

Barton Grange: Destination Centre, Fron Goch: Garden Centre, and Millbrook Staplehurst: Local Garden Centre, were the big winners at the GCA Gala Dinner and Awards on Tuesday night at the GCA Conference 2025, held at Wokefield Estate, Reading.

Barton Grange - Destination Centre of the Year

Fron Goch - Garden Centre of the Year

Millbrook Staplehurst - Local Garden Centre of the Year

Lyme Bay Winery - Associate Member of the Year, The Haskins Stewart Cup

Pughs Garden Village - Worrall Cup winners for Marketing Campaign of the Year

Garden Centres of Excellence (pictures below in the image gallery)

• Aylett Nurseries
  Barton Grange Garden Centre
  Bents Garden & Home
  Fron Goch Garden Centre
  Meadow Croft Garden Centre
  Old Railway Line Garden Centre
  Perrywood, Sudbury
  Perrywood, Tiptree
  Ruxley Manor Garden Centre
  Thurrock Garden Centre

Watch out for more GCA Conference coverage and all the pictures from Tuesday's conference sessions, the Associates Exhibition and the Gala Dinner in GTN Xtra over the coming days.

Ben Clarke from Knights Nags Hall Garden Centre was named as the winner of 2024 Westland Horticulture-sponsored Rising Stars programme at the Garden Centre Association’s 2025 Conference.

Ben was declared the best Rising Star after his presentation received the most votes from delegates at the conference in Reading where applications also opened for this year’s programme.

Peter Burks, GCA Chief Executive, says: “I would like to congratulate our other finalists, Dan Furley from Millbrook Garden Centre – Gravesend, Josh Rigg from Klondyke Garden Centre – Wilmslow and Gayna Barnard of Bents Home & Garden, for their commitment and enthusiasm throughout. They should all be justly proud of their achievements.

“We had four brilliant presentations, so it was very hard deciding who to vote for but, in the end, Ben came out top.”

GCA garden centre members can now nominate staff for the 2025 Rising Stars programme and all the details are on the organisation’s website.

The closing date for entries is March 7, 2025.

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 and to nominate a Rising Star for 2025, please visit www.gca.org.uk.

The London Underground themed Associates Night at the GCA Conference delivered plenty of examples of unique fancy dress by garden centre and supplier teams.

The Gardens Group as "The Circle Line" and The Solar Centre as "The Underground Rats" scooped the best fancy dress prizes, as judged by GCA CEO Peter Burks, GIMA Director Vicky Nuttall and GTN Editor Trevor Pfeiffer.

From the Northern Line to Grange Hill, underground lines, stations, support staff and travellers were all represented.

GTN Xtra's unedited photo gallery from the evening is below.  We will leave it to you to identify the teams and individuals with their London Undergroud theme.

As this update gets published, dancing to Fake Tan will continue into the night.  Watch this space for more from conference tomorrow.

Garsons Garden Centre Esher (Destination Garden Centre), Castle Gardens (Garden Centre) and Pughs Wenvoe (Local Garden Centre) have been recognised as the national winners of the Garden Centre Association’s Gisela Graham-sponsored 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 2025.

GCA CEO, Peter Burks said: “Well done to the team at Garsons Garden Centre, Esher in Surrey, who took the top spot nationally in the Destination Garden Centre (DGC) category for the third year running. Also, congratulations to Castle Gardens in Dorset, who were national winners in the Garden Centre (GC) section once again this year. Pughs Garden Village Wenvoe are our first winners in our new Local Garden Centre category and their displays were excellent.

“Garsons won last year and the year before and are consistently good performers in this area. While Castle Gardens are part of the Gardens Group and its three garden centres in the Westcountry are consistently high scorers in their categories for Christmas. All these centres and our other runners up are well worth a visit this December for members who would like some great ideas for best practice in this area in 2025.

“The standard was off the scale this year, with amazing displays and superb retail practices. I’m very much looking forward to hearing what our Inspector Phil McCann has to say when he presents his findings, and the ideas and images, from his visits at our annual conference in the Reading in January. He will be giving tips to all garden centre delegates – sharing good practice and helping them further develop their displays and Christmas offerings for 2025.”

In the DGC category, Gates Garden Centre came second and in third place was Barton Grange Garden Centre.

Second place in the GC category was Pugh’s Garden Village Radyr and The Old Railway Line Garden Centre came third.

In the LGC section, Brimsmore Gardens in Somerset came second and third place was awarded to Poundbury Gardens in Dorset, both are part of the Gardens Group, which includes the overall GC winner Castle Gardens.

Peter continues: “All the entrants were judged on general ambience, creativity, stock range, flow and tidiness. Customer service was also taken into consideration. Everyone who entered created some fabulous displays this year and really showed some flair. Those I saw on my travels were very impressive and had a real ‘wow factor’.”

Regional winners:

South

DGC

1. Garsons Garden Centre Esher  

2. Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

3. Haskins Garden Centre, Ferndown

GC

1. Ransoms Garden Centre  

2. Garsons Garden Centre Titchfield 

3. Squires Garden Centre, Hersham

LGC

1.  Knights Garden Centre Betchworth

2. Millbrook Garden Company, Staplehurst – Garden Centre

3. Squires Garden Centre, Reigate

North

DGC

1. Barton Grange Garden Centre

2. Bents Garden Centre

3. Hayes Garden World

GC 

1. Fron Goch Garden Centre

2. Creative Gardens Donaghadee 

3. British Garden Centres Arcadia

LGC

1. British Garden Centres Harrogate

Midlands, Wales and West

DGC

1. Gates Garden Centre 

2. Webbs of Wychbold

GC

1. Castle Gardens  

2. Pughs Garden Village Radyr

3. Old Railway Line Garden Centre

LGC 

1. Pugh’s Garden Village Wenvoe

2. Brimsmore Gardens  

3. Poundbury Gardens

East

DGC

1. Perrywood Tiptree Garden Centre

2. Brigg Garden Centre

GC

1. Haddenham Garden Centre

2. Sunshine Garden Centre

3. Bell Plantation

LGC

1. Parkers Garden Company

Thompson's Plant & Garden Centre, Welling (Local Garden Centre), Cowell's Garden Centre (Garden Centre) and Perrywood, Tiptree (Destination Garden Centre) received their Ruxley Rose awards at the GCA conference today (Monday).

The Ruxley Rose competition aims to inspire GCA member garden centres to maintain best practice at all times and have centres that are inviting and attractive to customers.

Pyle Garden Centre, South Wales, was among the winners to receive their awards at the GCA conference today (Monday), picking up the Dick Allen Award for Most Improved Centre...

Barton Grange Trophy for Commercial Creativity and Innovation

Perrywood, Tiptree

Dick Allen Award for Most Improved Centre

Pyle Garden Centre

Customer Service Award

Perrywood, Tiptree

Environment & Sustainability Award

Castle Gardens

GIMA Award – Best Garden Products Retailer

LGC: Millbrook Garden Company, Staplehurst (pictured above)

GC: Klondyke Garden Centres, Mortonhall

DGC: Perrywood, Tiptree

Catering Award

LGC: Rutland Nursery

GC: Thetford Garden Centre

DGC: Bents Garden & Home and Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

Indoor Lifestyle

LGC: Rutland Nursery

GC: Squire's Garden Centres, Woking, and Squire's Garden Centres, Wokingham

DGC:  Bents Garden & Home

Outdoor Living

LGC: Pugh's Garden Village, Wenvoe

GC: Garsons, Titchfield

DGC: Garsons, Esher

Foodhall/Farmshop

LGC: Pugh's Garden Village, Wenvoe

GC: Bellis Brothers Farm Shop & Garden Centre

DGC: Gates Garden Centre

Indoor Plants

LGC: Knights Garden Centres, Betchworth

GC: Castle Gardens

DGC: Perrywood, Tiptree

GROW Training Award

Squire's Garden Centres, Reigate

A group of 30 GCA delegates got their their conference 2025 experience off to a stimulating start today, Sunday, with a Retail Safari in central London.

Led by Matthew Brown from Echo Chamber, the Safari started with a trends’ presentation in Bermondsy central London. Followed by a fascinating tour of various retail venues, including Spitalfields and ending up in Control Room 3 at Battersea Power Station for dinner before returning to the Conference venue, De Vere Wokefield Estate, Reading.

"With conference so close to London, this was an opportunity not to be missed," explained organiser and GCA Vice Chair Ben Harrison of haskins Garden Centres.  "The day has been particularly inspiring and stiulating.  It was good to see many great examples of retailing not in garden centres for once.  Sharing opinions with others in the group was particularly interesting."

See a selection of photos taken on the Retail Safari by the delegates below.

The GCA Conference starts on Monday morning with the AGM and closes on Tuesday night with the GCA Annual Dinner and Awards.

Watch this space for news and pictures from conference...

Four years after environmental horticulture became the first sector hit by the full impacts of Brexit checks, businesses are still grappling with soaring costs, significant delays, stock damage, and excessive bureaucracy. These challenges drive up costs and limit consumer choice, leaving the industry in an increasingly precarious position.

The UK’s environmental horticulture sector is a vital contributor to the economy and a linchpin of the green agenda. Plants, trees, and flowers produced domestically were valued at £1.7 billion in 2023, while imports of plants and plant material totalled £780 million, with 99% sourced from the EU. These figures underscore the sector’s importance to economic growth and its support of millions of UK gardeners, landscapers, and retailers. However, its reliance on international connections, particularly with the EU, exposes vulnerabilities to disruptions in trade and supply chains.

While the sector’s value is undeniable, increasing domestic production to substitute imports faces significant hurdles:

• Labour shortages: In 2023, growers reported a 4% vacancy rate, plus only being able to source 87% of the seasonal labour required. This reflects economic pressures, including rising wages, increased employer costs such as National Insurance contributions, and seasonal challenges caused by adverse weather (Source: HTA Wages & Labour Benchmarking Survey, 2023).
• Investment and land constraints: One-third of the UK growers who are not planning to increase production in the next five years cited access to sufficient labour as the reason, 40% cited a lack of confidence in investing, and 16% identified limited access to land as barriers to growth (Source: Horticulture Business Survey, 2022). 

These challenges and the financial burdens of trade create a difficult operating environment for businesses across the sector.

Current policies, such as the Common User Charge (CUC), disproportionately increase costs for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), making up approximately 95% of the environmental horticulture sector. Meanwhile, inadequate infrastructure at Border Control Posts (BCPs) leads to delays and stock waste. The lack of a mutual plant health agreement further disadvantages UK businesses compared to their EU competitors, exacerbating friction and limiting trade opportunities.

Stuart Tickner, Provender Nurseries, said: "With the introduction of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) off the back of Brexit, there were a lot of unknowns on how we were going to import plants and how the Border Control Posts (BCPs) were going to operate, including the costs associated with using them and how the plants were going to be handled. This is why we chose to make the huge investment and hard work to become a Control Point. However, we still see cost increases from suppliers, hauliers, and import costs themselves. All of the frictions around the BCPs have meant some hauliers, drivers, and even growers have decided they don't want to export to the UK anymore.

“Since Brexit, there have been a lot of other changes affecting the industry, like the transition to peat-free growing media, pre-labelling in the EU being removed, and, of course, the rise in tax on employers. All of these changes, on top of a very challenging season due to the continued rain last year, made the industry struggle.

“As an industry, we need some stability. The government sadly cannot control the weather, but they can settle the industry by being ambitious and speedy to get a new SPS/ plant health agreement in place."

Paolo Arrigo, Seeds of Italy, remarked: “Seeds of Italy specialises in hobby packets of heritage, ethical, regional and slow food endangered vegetable seed varieties with lost flavours, which has become very hard to bring those in. Along with the rest of UK environmental horticulture, we have been transparent and compliant with all the new bureaucracy. It seems that despite trying and after 4 years, there are still inconsistencies, misinterpretations and grey areas. Importers feel picked on - it is a lottery of how goods arrive, with a ‘them and us’ culture. The UK has a passion for plants – the oldest Horticultural society and Botanical gardens in the world, not to mention the plant hunters - Darwin springs to mind. That passion is reflected in top-end gardeners and seeds merchants like myself with the Franchi seed brand. We urgently need to rejoin the customs union and the Single Market to give the UK a boost and restore our standing in the world.”

Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Public Affairs at the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), said: “The environmental horticulture sector, vital to the UK’s green economy, has suffered significantly from the effects of Brexit for too long. Four years after leaving the EU, the anticipated benefits have yet to materialise, while we continue to face challenges that threaten the stability of our businesses and trade.

“The past year has been marked by severe trade border issues, including significant delays, excessive red tape, and rising costs, all of which limit consumer choice. These difficulties are further compounded by unpredictable weather and the restrictions outlined in the government’s 2024 autumn budget. These obstacles are not only persisting; they are worsening. Now is the time for action. As we approach 2025, the sector needs support to overcome these challenges and unlock its full potential. We welcome the ambition to reset relations with the EU, but immediate action is necessary to foster growth, and repairing UK-EU relations is crucial for addressing these challenges.

“A plant health agreement based on mutual recognition could provide a long-term solution. However, it must be combined with immediate actions to improve current border operations. Any such solution would also require time and support to restore supply chains and trading relationships. The border issues extend beyond UK-EU trade and encompass other related policies. There is an urgent need for comprehensive oversight of trade policies, including those concerning Northern Ireland, GB plant passport regulations, and CITES requirements. Without coordinated action, the sector risks facing increased friction, higher costs, and reduced competitiveness, undermining green growth and adversely impacting consumers.”

The HTA is calling for:

• Simplified border processes and trusted trader schemes to ease compliance for SMEs.
• Investment in BCP infrastructure to reduce delays and minimise stock damage.
• An EU-UK reset to include a Plant Health agreement

The HTA remains committed to working with policymakers to encourage them to seize this opportunity to deliver the unrealised benefits of Brexit and secure a thriving future for the sector.

Hörmann UK has entered into an agreement with Quality Garden Structures for the sale and distribution of its range of garden storage solutions throughout the UK. 

Ideal for the expanding outdoor living/garden market, the range of steel sheds, firewood racks and storage boxes supplied by Hörmann address the growing trend which is seeing the move from traditional wood to more sustainable materials.

Manufactured from high quality galvanized steel for outstanding durability and longevity, the Berry range of garden sheds and firewood racks offer consumers stylish and practical solutions for all of their garden storage needs. Whilst the Juno range of steel boxes are suitable for the storage of smaller items and are ideal for use on small patios and balconies.

Wolfgang Gorner, MD of Hörmann UK comments, “Our range of storage sheds and boxes provides an exciting opportunity for Hörmann, and we are pleased to be entering into a partnership with Quality Garden Structures. They have an excellent reputation in the marketplace and considerable experience of working with leading producers from around the world. We are well prepared with everything in place, and we have plenty of stock available in the UK. 

"We look forward to developing our relationship with Quality Garden Structures and to a successful venture into what is a new market for Hörmann.”

David Jefferies, Director at Quality Garden Structures said, “The Hörmann range of sheds and storage boxes provides us with an exciting opportunity to work with another quality brand. Hörmann is an instantly recognisable brand amongst end consumers, due to the company’s market leading position within the garage and entrance door markets. 

The range of Berry sheds and Juno storage boxes will provide consumers with unrivalled quality and a long lasting, low maintenance solution to garden storage with many advantages over the more traditional materials on offer.”  

While the latest Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) Market Update for December 2024 shows a 1% decline in overall garden centre sales compared to December 2023, the 2024 calendar year ended a modest 2% up on 2023 full-year results.

This is despite the many challenges our garden centres faced. December figures were impacted by Christmas sales being pulled forward into November, and it was also marked by milder weather, ranking as the 4th dullest and 5th warmest December on record. This was a continuing trend of unpredictable weather throughout the year. With a cool summer, wet spring and autumn, and a mild winter, 2024 is ranked as the 4th warmest year in the UK on record.

Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, commented: “December’s mild weather capped off a year full of challenges for garden centres, with unpredictable weather impacting core categories. Christmas sales held steady, accounting for 26% of the total store sales, and full-year 2024 Christmas sales were up +7%, removing the impact of the sales pulled forward into November. Within this, artificial trees saw a 14% increase in December and +11% for the full calendar year —likely driven by replacement cycles and cost-effectiveness. However, garden and gardening sales fell 4% across 2024 as a whole, as inconsistent performance in key plant categories reflected the tough trading environment.

"Catering continued to provide a bright spot for garden centres, with sales up 11% year-on-year, while non-garden categories grew by 6%. Despite a slight 1-point increase in consumer confidence, the general economic situation remained unchanged, and large purchases were less frequent.

"This month’s update also offers a year-in-review, highlighting the unpredictability of the weather and the highs and lows of 2024.  An Early Easter in March led to a 17% sales boost, but this was followed by a wet and cool garden season, with the spring and summer months seeing declines. Christmas sales were pulled forward into November, aided by the month ending on a weekend with five Saturdays, influencing the December performance. The overall trends highlight the importance of diversifying offerings and maintaining customer engagement in the face of external challenges.

“Looking ahead to 2025, I’m sure we will continue to see garden centres growing as vital community hubs, providing exceptional products and experiences. We remain optimistic about their continued success as we hope for more favourable weather conditions. However, with the Autumn Budget National Insurance and Wage hikes alone imposing a £134 million cost burden on the horticulture sector, garden centres face tough decisions on how to mitigate costs. Increased energy, transport, and labour costs, combined with rising National Living Wage rates, are placing significant strain on businesses—particularly those reliant on seasonal and part-time workers.

“These financial pressures, compounded by ongoing economic uncertainty, will likely impact consumer spending and present challenges for garden centres in the coming year. We remain committed to advocating for immediate government support to help our sector navigate these difficult times. We are asking the Chancellor to pause for consultation on the impact of all these changes from the autumn budget and work with us on solutions which help the sector grow.”

HTA members can view further insights in this month’s Market Update on the website.

Protestors have also been demonstrating outside the garden centre with ‘Save Our Trees’ banners (Picture credit, 'Save Tickhill's Trees, Facebook page).

An online petition launched against a plan to remove a pair of historic lime trees at Cherry Lane Garden Centre in Tickhill, near Doncaster, has attracted 2,327 signatures so far.

QD Commercial Holdings, which runs the garden centre was initially denied permission by councillors to remove the 128-year-old lime trees. But that decision was overturned by a government planning inspector after an appeal. The company says the trees need to be cut down as they block access to the delivery yard.

But protestors are up-in-arms about the planning inspector’s decision and have been demonstrating outside the garden centre with ‘Save Our Trees’ banners as well as tying red ribbons around the threatened trees.

An online petition headlined ‘Halt the Removal of Historic Lime Trees at Tickhill's Local Garden Centre’ has also drawn widespread support.

One of the protestors, Claire West, started the petition on change.org. She said: “For the residents of Tickhill, South Yorkshire, the avenue of lime trees planted in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee is not just a row of trees. These lime trees hold deep historical significance, reflecting our Victorian values celebrating beauty, community pride, and the importance of maintaining green spaces. They have stood tall for over a century, becoming an iconic part of our town's landscape.

“However, this cherished avenue is now at risk. Approval has been given to remove some trees by the garden centre despite significant public outcry and serious questions related to potential conflicts of interest surrounding the decision. This plan disregards the symbolic significance of these trees, their ecological role, and the desires of the local community.

“It can be replaced, but something similar in age and historical value can never be reinstated immediately. It's a loss that the coming generations would be deprived of, a stern tussle with their community legacy.

“We plead with the council and enforcement agency to reconsider this decision. Too often in our opinion, the interests of the few seem to outweigh the rights and longings of the many. We want to see this pattern take a different turn this time.

“We must protect our heritage, respect our green spaces, and listen to community voices. Please, help us in our cause. Sign this petition and let's stand up for our ground and our trees.”

The online petition can be found at https://www.change.org/p/halt-the-removal-of-historic-lime-trees-at-tickhill-s-local-garden-centre

Garden Centre Association members’ latest Barometer of Trade figures show December was up 3.75% when compared to 2023 and the year was at + 3.26%.

The results recorded by GCA garden centres for the month showed, when likened to December 2023, 10 of the 13 categories performed well with hard landscaping taking pole position at +35.12%.

Peter Burks, GCA CEO, explains: “The year ended on a nice positive note for our garden centre members with December up 3.75% when compared to December 2023 and the year up by 3.26%.

“Within the BoT, two thirds of the members who input their figures were up in their sales for 2024, when compared to 2023. The top trends continued with strong performances from catering, food halls/farm shops and clothing but, also within the month, we saw good increases in houseplants, outdoor plants and seeds & bulbs.

“While Christmas sales were slightly down for the month it showed a good increase of +5.25% for the whole year. We now look forward to an early, warm spring!”

The best recorded category for December 2024, when compared to the same month in 2023, was hard landscaping up at +35.12%, with catering next at +8.86% and clothing in third place at +7.46%.

Food hall/farmshop came in next at +7.43%, then seeds and bulbs +4.45%, outdoor plants at +3.71%, miscellaneous at +2.97%, the gifts category recorded +2.73% and houseplants at +2.33%.

Pets & aquatics came in next at +1.37%, then garden sundries showing -0.23%, Christmas at -1.18% and furniture & BBQs with -1.37%.

The GCA 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.

When setting resolutions and intentions for the year ahead, many look to improve their physical health by signing up for a gym or an exercise class, but the Horticultural Trades Association says gardening could be one of nature’s best workouts.

The HTA found that 81% of British adults agree gardens and green spaces benefit their physical health, and 85% of adults agree gardens benefit their state of mind, emphasising how green spaces and gardens can provide robust natural healthcare solutions.

(YouGov Survey for HTA, 2024)

The HTA’s Value of Plants report revealed that gardening, planting, removing, or tending to plants can be considered exercise, burning up to 200 calories in a 30-minute stint. This can help improve overall health by lowering the risk of obesity, cancer, and cardiovascular complications. Nurturing plants in the garden is a low-impact activity, making it suitable even for those who enjoy a slower pace, are limited in mobility or need extra support.

The Environmental Horticulture Group’s (EHG) recent Mission Green Growth report stated how urban vegetation helped the UK avoid £800.5 million in health-related costs and recognised the essential role nature-based approaches play in the UK’s preventative healthcare strategy. Some of the measures suggested in the report include green social prescribing in NHS pathways as well as recognising gardening and nature-based therapies as key to improving physical, social, and mental health.

David Denny, Director of Research and Insights at the HTA, commented: “The UK’s 30 million gardeners, whether toddlers or pensioners, get so much from gardening, especially related to health and wellbeing. Our survey shows that millions of people look to their gardens as a welcome way to connect with nature, de-stress, and get active as well as creative.”

Although January may feel like a slower month for gardens, they will soon begin to come to life so now is the perfect time to start thinking about the spring ahead. For example, removing weeds, picking off dead leaves to prevent grey mould and reducing food for slugs, re-cutting lawn edges for a neat finish, and deadheading flowers to encourage new blooms.

Zest, part of the P&A Group, is to raise money for MS Society Cymru and North Clwyd Animal Rescue (NCAR) in a joint commitment to both charities in 2025, Zest’s 20th anniversary and P&A’s 40th.

The initiative will see Zest employees participating in various fundraising activities throughout the year.  Events will include marathons and half marathons, the MBNA Chester 10K, a walking steps challenge, cycling, the Born Survivor authentic military obstacle course, the Salford Quays Bungee Jump, and a Welsh Three Peaks Challenge, not to mention baking and ‘month without’ challenges and a Santa Dash.

Multiple Sclerosis Society Cymru raises awareness of MS and supports those affected by the disease in Wales.  NCAR is one of the largest animal rescue charities in North Wales and the North West, specialising in rescuing and rehoming domestic pets and caring for over 1500 animals per year. 

Andrew Baker, Managing Director of Zest said: “We are delighted to have chosen MS Cymru and NCAR as our charities of the year for 2025.  This is a fantastic opportunity for our team to come together to not only raise funds, but also raise awareness.  We’ll be taking on fun challenges, as well as promoting healthy exercise and supporting truly important causes. With one of our team members directly affected by MS, this cause is especially personal, and we’re determined to make a meaningful impact for both charities.

“For Zest, this is also about fostering a community of support, understanding, and compassion. We firmly believe that spending time with others, immersing ourselves in the great outdoors, and engaging in activities that are not just hobbies but essential tools in an arsenal dedicated to improving both physical and mental health.”

Shelley Elgin, Country Director for Wales for MS Society Cymru, commented: "We are thrilled to be chosen as Zest’s Charity of the Year for 2025. This partnership will help us continue providing essential support to people living with MS across Wales. The funds raised will make a real difference to our community and help us work towards our goal of stopping MS."

Nicky Owen from NCAR added: “At NCAR we are so grateful that we are one of Zest’s chosen charities for 2025. Zest’s involvement will make a huge difference to the animals we re-home. And we are looking forward to welcoming employees from Zest to come along and share some volunteer time with us in 2025, in pursuit of our mutual wellbeing goals.”

The charitable partnerships officially launched on Thursday, 16th January, at the Zest main center and head office in Saltney North Wales. The initial fundraising target has been set at a total of £20,000.

Over the last 15 years, Zest employees, alongside colleagues in the P&A Group have donated £175,000 to a variety of charities.  These include Dementia UK, British Heart Foundation, Macmillan Cancer Support, Hope House, and Tŷ Gobaith Children’s Hospices, Cancer Research UK, Action for Children, Alzheimer’s Society, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Meningitis Now, and MIND.

 Zest was established in 2005 to bring high quality, sustainable timber garden products to garden centres, online retailers, builders’ merchants, and major purchasing groups across the UK.  For further information about Zest’s GYO, decorative and furniture products, visit www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk.

The horticulture industry came together for the third annual Perennial Partners Pie and Pint night, raising an extraordinary amount of money for the charity which helps people working in horticulture.

The much-loved event was held at Steam Wine Bar, Monument, London, which proved to be the ideal venue for the evening, welcoming nearly twice the number of attendees compared to previous years.

Perennial Chief Executive, Jamie Gault, expressed his appreciation: “We are immensely grateful to the many Perennial Partners and their guests who supported the event. It was wonderful to see the community coming together to raise money and help us to continue our work to build better futures for people in horticulture and their families.”

David Dodd, owner of Pots and Pithoi and founder of The Outdoor Room was quiz master-extraordinaire, keeping the 96 attendees engaged and entertained throughout the evening.

Auction and raffle prizes were generously donated by many of the organisations who attended - all helping to make a vital contribution to the success of the evening and raise essential funds for Perennial.

Perennial Partners Steve Harper and Neil Stead shared their reflections on the evening.

Steve Harper, CEO of Southern Trident, said: "It was a wonderful opportunity to bring some of our customers along and connect with industry colleagues in a relaxed and friendly setting. Being a Perennial Partner means so much to us, as the charity plays a vital role in supporting the people who make our industry thrive. We encourage everyone to get involved with this incredible cause." 

Neil Stead, of Steady Consulting, added: "The venue was packed with so many people from within the horticulture and landscaping industry, providing the perfect opportunity to catch up and, more importantly, raise funds to support this important charity. The hosts put on a fabulous event; the quiz and quiz master were epic, and the pie and pint(s) went down very nicely!”

Perennial Partners play a crucial role in raising awareness and providing support for people in the horticulture industry.  To find out more about becoming a Perennial Partner please visit perennial.org.uk/partners.

The Gardens Group will be running three Terrarium Workshops this winter, giving gardeners of all ages and abilities the opportunity to explore this low maintenance and popular way to keep houseplants.

Taking place at Poundbury Gardens near Dorchester, Castle Gardens in Sherborne and Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil, the workshops will cover choosing the correct plants and container, as well as how to create and care for these miniature micro habitats.

Terrarium Workshops at The Gardens Group

• Poundbury Gardens near Dorchester – Saturday 22 February, 1:30pm – 3pm
• Castle Gardens, Sherborne – Saturday 1 March, 1:30pm – 3pm
• Brimsmore Gardens, Yeovil – Saturday 8 March, 1:30pm – 3pm

Tickets are £40 each, are available online at thegardensgroup.co.uk or in-store and include refreshments, 1x glass terrarium, all materials and plants. Expert staff will be on hand to share their knowledge and help build the perfect terrarium. Advance booking is essential.

As 2025 stretches out ahead of us, it’s the ideal time to take stock of exciting innovations set to shape the upcoming gardening season. One of the most anticipated launches for 2025 is Apta Signature, the all-new collection from Apta, part of the AMES Companies family of brands. Designed to redefine the pot category, Apta Signature brings together striking design, seamless functionality, and clever merchandising to open new sales opportunities for retailers while delighting customers with its versatility and appeal.

The Apta Signature range offers a premium collection of garden pots designed for style, durability, and versatility, making it ideal for both retailers and customers looking to elevate their outdoor spaces. This collection features four curated ranges:

1. Eden – Known for its glossy, glazed finish and ethereal colours such as mermaid green, midnight blue, and opulent green, Eden is perfect for creating dynamic garden displays. Its versatile designs include Tall Egg, Egg, and Bowl styles, all frost and UV-resistant with a 10-year guarantee​.
2. Obsidian – Featuring deep ebony tones with earthy contrasts, this range combines elegance and resilience. It includes Bell, Bowl, and Cone designs in luxurious shades like Faded Ripple and Merlot Tide, offering a striking aesthetic for modern gardens​.
3. Rustica – Inspired by Mediterranean charm, Rustica combines timeless beauty with durability. Available in neutral tones like antique bronze and cool grey, it includes designs such as Bell, Bowl, and Cone, ideal for crafting elegant outdoor spaces​.
4. Neptune – With hues inspired by the planet Neptune, this range showcases smooth finishes in blues and greens, complementing a wide variety of plants while maintaining durability for year-round outdoor use​.

All ranges are UV and frost-resistant and come with a 10-year guarantee, ensuring long-lasting appeal and value.

What’s more, retailers stand to benefit significantly from the clever merchandising solutions included with Apta Signature. Each display is delivered fully assembled, allowing stores to showcase the collection within minutes of arrival. These striking displays are designed to make an instant impact, featuring bold plum-coloured branding and cohesive visual elements that draw the eye. With a compact footprint of just 4m², the displays fit seamlessly into store layouts, making them an efficient use of space. The combination of stacked products and dressed displays, incorporating seasonal plants, aggregates from the Kelkay portfolio, and other complementary items, inspires customers to envision how the pieces will look in their gardens, increasing both footfall and average basket sizes.

Apta Signature’s emphasis on collectability and gifting also aligns perfectly with current consumer trends. In a market where customers are shifting their focus from large-scale projects to personalising their spaces, this collection meets their needs at the right moment. It encourages loyalty and repeat purchases by inspiring customers to return to add to their collection or explore the latest edits. This creates a valuable opportunity for retailers to foster long-term relationships with their customer base.

Find out more

With Apta Signature now available for orders, retailers are encouraged to act quickly to secure their displays and be part of this transformative new approach to garden retail. For more information or to place an order, visit www.apta.co.uk or contact your local AMES Companies sales agent.

Spring Fair, taking place on 2-5 February 2025 at the NEC Birmingham, has partnered with leading trend agency BDA London and their smart forecasting service Trendhub to deliver the key trends in homewares, festive celebrations and outdoor living for AW25/26 and SS26.

Trendhub provides smart forecasting that combines the what, the how, and - most importantly - the why of the season. Each trend is anchored in changing consumer preferences, emerging design and innovation, to give a solid basis for exciting new products.

For the inside track on their trend intel, attend free trend presentations on the Inspiring Retail Stage in Hall 2 at Spring Fair.

At 4.15pm on Monday 3rd February, Terrie Isaac, Head of Creative at BDA London delivers AW25/26 Homeware & Festive Celebrations Trends: ‘From Modern Modular to Raw Minimal’. Take a journey through the intriguing AW25/26 world of Homeware and Festive trends: it’s a season of many contrasts, both minimal and plentiful with lots of attention to raw crafting and print layering.

On Tuesday 4th February at 10.30am, Isaac presents SS26 Homeware and Outdoor Living Trends: ‘Evolving Households: Balancing acts and Waste-Nots’, assessing the evolving needs of global households and importance of discarded materials, resulting in reworked classics.

Terrie Isaac says, “Home and lifestyle categories are rapidly evolving, with consumers not only spending money on but actively seeking ways to enhance their living spaces. There’s a strong desire for products that balance self-expression, aesthetics, and functionality. Consumers want durable, high-ticket items that offer longevity, yet they also seek the flexibility to refresh their spaces more frequently with decor and textiles that can easily align with changing moods, trends, and seasons. As consumer lifestyles and living spaces constantly shift, it’s essential for retailers to stay ahead of these changes. The tools we provide enable retailers to make agile, informed decisions by offering insights into key seasonal design elements - such as must-have colours, fabrics, and key product items - that align with evolving consumer needs. This allows them to deliver products that not only meet consumer expectations but also address the challenges of a dynamic market.

“In our sessions at Spring Fair this February, we’ll be sharing an overview of the key themes from our AW25/26 and SS26 homeware trendbooks and providing a glimpse into our forecasting process. The overarching notion of Duality flows through our themes, featuring the opposing ideas of joyful experimentation and functionality, and augmented traditionalism and earthen materialism. As we explore our themes, we’ll reveal threads that run throughout the two seasons, including playful expressionism, comforting nostalgia, transformative traditionalist and raw materiality.”

With three stages and plenty of industry-leading businesses and speakers like Theo Paphitis, Kate Hardcastle MBE, Kantar, Deliveroo, and Canva, buyers can dive into expert talks packed with actionable advice to help improve your business - all for FREE. Visit Spring Fair Stage Programme | Topics at the heart of retail for the full schedule.

Spring Fair 2025 promises to be one to remember with over 1,200 exhibitors across 12 unmissable buying destinations dedicated to Home, Gift, Fashion, and Everyday categories. Buyers will discover more than 1 million inspirational and innovative products, over 400 new brands and many exclusive only to Spring Fair, and more than 100 international brands.

For more information about Spring Fair and the 75th-anniversary celebrations, visit www.springfair.com. To register visit https://www.springfair.com/visitor-registration.

Visit https://www.bdalondon.com/trendhubldn for more information on Trendhub.

Leading sustainable plant pot brand, elho, has introduced a range of unique new innovations ahead of the spring season, including a premium collection of plant pots, a smart plant care device, and a handy composter. The latest launches, which became available this month, will further expand the range of sustainable, stylish, and practical products available to retailers, strengthening stockists’ portfolio of flower pots and plant care innovations available to consumers.

A first of its kind for elho, the new premium collection marks a market expansion for the B Corp brand. Featuring three striking plant pot collections, the luxury range provides retailers with the opportunity to attract high-spending consumers by combining craftsmanship, beauty and sustainability. Inspired by a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian decor, known as ‘Japandi’, the collection’s three ranges – amber, june and eden - each boasting their own signature style. Consumers can choose from the warm tones and organic shapes of the amber range, the effortlessly elegant harmony of the june collection, or the simple yet welcoming serenity of eden. 

Leading the way in smart technology in the sector, elho has also unveiled its revolutionary new plant care device - the smart pebble. This clever product helps consumers care for their houseplants with ease by analysing the soil and sending alerts directly to an AI-assisted smartphone app. Whether plants are in need of more water, sunlight or nutrients, the smart pebble is set to transform the houseplant market and is a must-have for retailers wanting stay ahead of the curve by offering consumers the latest in smart technology.

Enhancing the popular green basics range, the new green basics composter is the latest product in the collection to help consumers make more climate-positive choices. This unique innovation provides consumers with a simple, effective and affordable way to nourish their gardens and enrich their soil, while reducing household waste.

With its generous 200 litre capacity and natural green look, the green basics composter gives gardeners an attractive alternative to traditional black compost bins or unsightly heaps. Its practical features, including a convenient lift-off lid and an accessible front door, simplify the process of filling and emptying the composter. An optional matching bottom plate is available for separate purchase, designed to deter pests such as mice while encouraging beneficial organisms like worms to accelerate the composting process.

These latest product launches build on elho’s reputation for eco-friendly innovation and follow the successful launch of the sereh and winery collections last September. As with all of elho’s products, every item is made using 100% recycled plastic and with renewable energy.

To explore elho’s wider range of sustainable plant care innovations, visit www.elho.com/en

To find out more about each of the products mentioned, visit the elho newsroom at: https://ace.media/elho

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The Royal Horticultural Society has announced the 44 finalists competing in this year’s RHS Britain in Bloom UK Finals, as groups across the nation prepare to win judges over with their greening of the UK’s villages, towns and cities.

The finalists, nominated through regional arms of the competition, will compete to be crowned winner in one of eight categories, and will secure an RHS gold, silver gilt, silver or bronze award. One will then go on to be named RHS Britain in Bloom Overall Winner for 2025.

Judges will assess groups’ efforts against a criteria that has environmental benefit, community engagement and horticultural excellence at its core.

This year there are 13 first-time finalists, including Conwy in Bloom, Uppingham in Bloom and Torquay in Bloom with many showcasing groups’ commitment to sustainable water practices.

Among this year’s finalists are Abergavenny in Bloom who have devised a smart system that draws on sensors fitted across the town centre that measure soil moisture levels and temperature to help conserve water and identify ideal planting conditions. Similarly, Stony Stratford in Bloom have fitted innovatively designed downpipes to polytunnels, enabling them to capture even more rainwater.

Many groups such as Middleton in Bloom and Better Bankside are also managing ‘pocket gardens’ – smaller scale growing spaces distributed across urban areas and including plots of land next to train stations and bus stops, along residential roads and in town centres.

Sarah Galvin, RHS Head of National Community Programmes, said: “Britain in Bloom is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of the incredible impact that gardening and green spaces can have on our communities and the environment. Congratulations to our 44 finalists who are demonstrating how convening people around gardening can be a powerful tool for tackling some of the most pressing environmental and social challenges we face today.”

There are 17 Britain in Bloom Regions that nominate their highest-performing entries to compete in the RHS run UK Finals. Each of the finalists will be visited by a pair of judges in summer 2025, and winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in the autumn.

If you are inspired to get involved in community gardening in your area find out more at www.rhs.org.uk/community 

RHS Britain in Bloom 2025 finalists and their respective categories:

The Greenfingers Charity has announced the addition of Kirsty Gladwin-Creed to its team as the new Event Fundraiser. Kirsty brings a wealth of enthusiasm to the role, along with a strong commitment to creating meaningful and impactful events to support the charity’s mission.

Having grown up on Greenfingers’ doorstep in Wendover, Kirsty has a has been following its progress for several years. Now in her new role, Kirsty looks forward to contributing to the future success of the Greenfingers Charity by engaging the Greenfingers community in even more fundraising events and activities, working alongside Linda and the wider team to also increase brand awareness.

Kirsty’s professional background includes over a decade of working with children in the education sector, a journey that has honed her skills in organisation, communication, and promoting positive experiences. Outside of work, she is an avid football player, loves exploring the outdoors with her dog, and treasures quality time with her family and friends.

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at the Greenfingers Charity, said: “We are delighted to welcome Kirsty to the Greenfingers team. Her dedication and creativity are a perfect match for our vision, and we are confident that she will bring fresh energy to our fundraising efforts. Kirsty’s passion for making a difference will undoubtedly help us continue to create more gardens for children in hospices and their families.”

Find out more

To learn more about the work of 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.

GIMA has announced that the next highly anticipated ‘Buyer Connect’ event will see Robert Dyas take centre stage.

Taking place on Wednesday, 5th March 2025, this exclusive event will be held at the Windlesham Golf Club, Bagshot, Surrey, offering GIMA members an exceptional opportunity to engage with one of the UK’s most respected high-street and e-commerce retailers.

Established in 1872, Robert Dyas has built a reputation for offering an extensive range of quality products across home, garden, and outdoor categories. The company has 93 stores, mainly in the South of England, and a robust online presence, Robert Dyas has become a household name. In recent years, the company has focused on expanding its e-commerce operations, with dropshipping becoming a cornerstone of its growth strategy.

The forthcoming GIMA Buyer Connect event is specifically designed for suppliers with existing dropship capabilities across all product categories. The Robert Dyas team is particularly interested in meeting suppliers who can demonstrate a solid dropship offering, with plans to introduce new ranges ready for the 2025 season. They are keen to connect with suppliers offering products for categories such as outdoor gardening, seasonal items, workshop tools, cleaning and utility products, kitchen essentials, appliances, consumables, technology, and home and fitness items.

Vicky Nuttall, GIMA Director, said, “This is a fantastic opportunity for GIMA members to showcase their products and capabilities to a leading name in UK retail. With dropshipping becoming an increasingly significant part of Robert Dyas’ operations, this event offers a chance for suppliers to form meaningful partnerships and expand their reach in the market.”

How to get involved

Suppliers are encouraged to prepare thoroughly for in-depth discussions about their product ranges, dropshipping experience, and commercial strategies. With up to 10 representatives from Robert Dyas expected to attend, the event promises to foster productive dialogues and new business opportunities.

Each supplier will be allocated a 20-minute appointment, with the option to book additional sessions if their product ranges span multiple categories. Suppliers can be represented by up to two people per appointment. The cost for participating in this event is £90 + VAT for GIMA members and £180 + VAT for non-members, with no additional charges for multiple meetings.

Interested suppliers are required to complete an application form and submit it to info@gima.org.uk by Wednesday 5th February 2025. Suppliers with multiple product ranges should submit separate applications for each category. All applications are subject to approval by Robert Dyas, and confirmed meeting times will be communicated by the GIMA team in due course.

Find out more

For further information and to register your interest, visit https://gima.org.uk/calendar-of-events/ or email the GIMA team directly via info@gima.org.uk

Focusing on developments in technology that will help to drive improvements in the plastics recycling and resource efficiency value chain, The RECOUP Summit is a new event on the RECOUP calendar. 

Sponsored by WRAP and Ecosurety, The RECOUP Summit takes place on 30 April 2025 at The Met Hotel in Leeds, consisting of focused breakout rooms in the morning followed by a collaborative session in the afternoon, and plenty of time for networking.

With an exciting line up of speakers already announced the day is set to see many insightful discussions taking place - it really is an event not to be missed!

Attendees can choose between the following breakout sessions:

Understanding the Role of Data in the Circular Economy  

This session will examine the importance of data collection in advancing the circular economy, highlighting the function of accurate data in helping deliver the changes that are needed. Looking at how different technologies can add value , whether that is for waste tracking or reuse systems.  

Speakers: 

• Sophie Walker, CEO & Co-Founder, Dsposal
• Rachel Warren, CEO, re-universe
• Will Addy, Chief Commercial Officer, Polytag

The Role of Technology in Advancing Recycling Processes  

Technological innovations are profoundly changing the recycling sector. This session will explore the effects of chemical recycling and advancements in technology that are transforming the recycling industry. 

Speakers:

• Dr Geoff Brighty, Head of Sustainability, Mura Technology
• Emmeline Aves, Commercial Manager, ReVentas
• Samuel Pine, Head of Customer Delivery, Greyparrot

Food Contact Packaging – Technology Solutions for the Future 

Food contact plastic packaging plays a crucial role in enhancing the recycled content in high end applications. This session will explore possibilities and innovations in this space. 

Speakers: 

• Jeremy Blake, Director of Circular Economy, Berry Global
• David Bargery, Managing Director, Regis Machinery
• Professor Edward Kosior, CEO & Founder, Nextek Ltd

Rebecca Davis, RECOUP’s Membership & Events Manager, comments: “With the continued success of The RECOUP Conference and the reoccurring demand for more in depth discussions on technological developments, The RECOUP Summit will bring together a variety of high calibre speakers from the industry. Focusing on three important areas, The RECOUP Summit provides an invaluable opportunity to hear the latest insights and help shape the future of technological advancement in the recycling and resource efficiency value chain”

Tickets for The RECOUP Summit are limited to only 40 spaces per session! To view the full agenda and book your ticket, visit the RECOUP website https://www.recoup.org/news-events/the-recoup-summit/. If you have any questions or require further information, please contact RECOUP at enquiry@recoup.org.

Leading trade fair for horticulture, IPM Essen, is taking place from 28 to 31 January 2025 in Essen, Germany.

In the BIZZ Holland stand in hall 8, right at entrance ‘Ost’ of the huge fair complex, 40 companies from various tree nursery centres in the Netherlands will jointly present themselves to the public. New this year is the Show Your Colours Garden Centre, which has a prominent place in the BIZZ Holland stand.

Show Your Colours Garden Centre
The new Show Your Colours Garden Centre was created through a unique collaboration of 18 renowned brands. With inspiring presentations and atmospheric concept tables in a garden centre setting, complete with attractive POS materials, the Show Your Colours Garden Centre offers inspiration and support for garden centres.

Consistent branding and striking visual communication play a key role, making brands more recognisable and creating a stronger bond with customers. Visitors to the Show Your Colours Garden Centre will be inspired with ideas for special campaigns and receive practical tools to easily share plant features and care tips with their customers.

The Show Your Colours Garden Centre will feature presentations from: Addenda®, Amigra, B& B Plant, Betuwe Plant B.V., Arie Bouman Tuinplanten BV, Cammeraat Polcultuur BV, Colour Your Garden, Colour Your Season, ConiPlant, Fruithof BV, Ilex Concepts BV, Magical Hydrangea, R. Moerings Waterplantenkwekerij, Van Oploo Tuinplanten, Van Oploo Tuinplanten & Plant Select, Alex Schoemaker Living Creations, Vreugdenhil Young Plants and Van der Wolf Plant.

Complete offer
In addition to the Show Your Colours Garden Centre, the BIZZ Holland stand will present a wide range of products, from avenue trees, ornamental shrubs, conifers, roses and perennials to planting material and various services.

BHETA’s next live in-person forum – Independents’ Day - at Federation House, Birmingham has been rescheduled to 27th March, following an unforeseen scheduling conflict, for one of the key speakers.  All delegates booked for the original 29th January date will automatically be transferred to the new date.

As the retail market shifts, the ‘BHETA Independents’ Day’ event will focus on the independent retailer sector, offering delegates a unique opportunity to explore the opportunities, challenges, and solutions inherent in supplier / independent retailer trading.  The ‘live’ nature of the event addresses increasing demand for in person events alongside online opportunities. 

The day promises a dynamic lineup, featuring presentations from key players like Bira (Bira Direct and Mica), Stax, and the Bank of England alongside insights from independent retailers and BHETA members. Through case studies and shared experiences, the forum will provide a comprehensive look at the evolving retail landscape.

This live, face to face event will now take place on Thursday 27th March, 10am – approx. 3.30pm in the Diamond Suite at the Federation House, 10 Vyse St, Birmingham B18 6LT.  Amid recent challenges in the industry, the forum will address the critical role independent retailers play in shaping the future.  Suppliers, wholesalers, and distributors are invited to re-evaluate their approach to this vital channel, exploring ways to strengthen relationships and seize new opportunities. Attendees will also benefit from invaluable networking sessions, fostering connections with peers across the industry.

Commenting on the opportunity for suppliers, BHETA’s Marketing Director, Steve Richardson said: “This is a double opportunity for BHETA members and other suppliers wishing to get a taste of BHETA’s enviable retailer networking track record.  This is also a perfect opportunity to get real insight into this increasingly vital route to market.

“As BHETA has proved, online events are great and enable a much wider cohort of supplier and retailers getting together successfully, and as such they remain very much part of the BHETA agenda, but there is something magical about a live event, and we are delighted to be kicking off a new programme of such occasions.”

To book a place at the event, suppliers should contact BHETA’s Member Services team to register or ask questions. Email info@bheta.co.uk or call +44 (0)121 237 1130. 

 More details of BHETA’s events programme, which includes webinars, Meet The Buyer events and networking forums with leading retailers can be found on the BHETA website www.bheta.co.uk.

British Garden Centres has announced their third acquisition of the week, the former Dobbies Gosforth site at Gosforth Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 5EP.

This strategic move marks a significant milestone for the business, further solidifying its position as the UK’s largest family-run garden centre group in the UK, taking the portfolio to 68 stores.

The existing team will be retained. There will also be a recruitment drive, creating new employment opportunities within the local area.  

The centre is planned to re-open mid to late February. The Gosforth Garden Centre’s Facebook and Instagram pages will continue to provide updates on the site’s progression.

Charles Stubbs, Founder and Director of British Garden Centres said: “We are delighted to welcome the Gosforth Garden Centre into our family, along with the team members and customers. It’s another very exciting opportunity as we have clear ambitions to grow the centre. We look forward to getting ready for the opening.”

Stratford Garden Centre has announced it has entered into a lease of the garden centre site at Warwick Road, Black Hill, Stratford upon Avon CV37 0QW. The existing team will be retained, following the closure of the site on 23 December 2023.   

Commenting on the development, Stratford Garden Centre Managing Director Helen Lloyd said: “It is 20 years since we moved into our site at Clifford Chambers, serving Stratford and the North Cotswold area. As a family-owned garden centre we have built close links with the local community and are looking forward to establishing a similar presence in the north east of Stratford serving customers from South Warwickshire and further afield along the M40 and A46 corridors.

"We have built a strong team of more than 100 staff at Clifford Chambers and are keen to develop the team at our new site at Warwick Road. We are planning substantial improvements to the site at Warwick Road and, after a closure period while this work is carried out, we plan on a grand re-opening in March.”

Stratford Garden Centre is a trading name of Whitacre Garden Centre Limited.

British Garden Centres has announced the acquisition of two Dobbies Garden Centres in Gloucester and Reading, making it the UK’s largest garden centre operator by number of sites.

This strategic move marks a significant milestone for the business. It further solidifies its position as the UK’s largest family-run garden centre group, taking the portfolio to 67 stores.

The two stores will join the British Garden Centres family following the Dobbies Restructuring Plan (RP) and hope to open in mid to late February. The Reading store will take the name Shinfield Garden Centre to better reflect the area and local community.

The immediate priority is to work closely with the existing teams to restock and reopen the centres as soon as possible. British Garden Centres will be retaining all existing centre team members and look forward to working with them to ensure the continued success of these sites in the local communities they serve.  Extra roles at each centre will be posted on the British Garden Centres website  https://www.britishgardencentres.com/careers/ and the Facebook and Instagram pages of each centre.

Charles Stubbs, Founder and Director of British Garden Centres said: “We are thrilled to announce the addition of two fantastic garden centres to the British Garden Centres family. This marks a significant milestone for the group, as the acquisition of these former Dobbies stores cements us as the largest garden centre group in the UK by stores. We have a clear vision for the growth of these centres and are excited to integrate with the local communities while building on the strong foundations that are already in place.

Further acquisitions of Dobbies sites by British Garden Centres are likely to follow.

As well as the kudos and fame from winning a Greatest Christmas award, our Gold winners in each of the judged categories will win prizes including stock, services or hotel accommodation from our Greatest Awards sponsors:

1. The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team – Sponsored by Woodlodge
2. The Greatest Outdoor Plant and Christmas Tree Team - Sponsored by Doff Portland
3. The Greatest Gardening as a Christmas Gift Sales Team - Sponsored by Fandango Fire Tools
4. The Greatest Christmas Gifts Team – Sponsored by Museums and Galleries
5. The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Promotions Team -Sponsored by Glee
6. The Greatest Christmas BBQ and Outdoor Leisure Team – The SOLEX Sizzle - Sponsored by SOLEX
7. The Greatest Festive RetailFood Team – Sponsored by Pleydell Smithyman
8. The Greatest Christmas Wild Bird Care & Pet Team - Sponsored by Marriages
9. The Greatest Garden Centre Grotto Team - Sponsored by Smart Garden Products – Three Kings
10. The Greatest Group Small Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Woodmansterne
11. The Greatest Group Large Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Tildenet
12. The Greatest Small Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Garden Radio
13. The Greatest Mid-Sized Garden Centre Christmas Team – Sponsored by Kaemingk
14. The Greatest Large Garden Centre Christmas Team – Sponsored by MorePeople
15. The Greatest Giant Garden Centre Christmas Team - Sponsored by Kaemingk

GTN December 2024/January 2025 - Sustainability Directory. In this issue:

Exclusive interview with the Mercer family of Hillmount Garden Centres in Belfast , GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards – all the centres have now been visited – winners will be announced at Spring Fair on Monday 3rd February at 5:00p on The Stage, Spring Fair 2025 Preview, GTN’s Sustainability Directory for 2025, GIMA Awards Sustainability champions, Woodmansterne, ground-breaking environmental credentials, GCA Westland Rising Stars eco-friendly projects, Sustainability with what you already have, Webb eco – where power meets eco-friendliness, Sustainability Directory pages , Glam up your greens, UK Greetings, our world means the world to us, Success with Peat Free gardening, Thetford Garden Centre – now a B Corp, Tildenet’s huge range of sustainable and recycled products, Planteria – 2025 is the Year of the Begonia and the Pea, Let’s keep talking - HTA Viewpoint, A year of running – a big thank you from Kate Ebbens who ran every day in 2024 and raised over £30,000 for the Greenfingers Charity, 2025: friend or foe? - GIMA Viewpoint.