GTN’s Greatest Christmas Award winners revealed Gold awards for Altons, Ayletts, Barton Grange, Bents, Brigg, Burford House, Gates, Kaemingk, Pengelly, Perrywood, Planters, Pughs, Sapcote, Silverbirch, Squires, The Old Railway Line & Webbs
Burford House (BGC), Brigg (BGC), Squire Badshot Lea, Silverbirch, The Old Railway Line and Bents have picked up Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Team golds in GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards, presented at Spring Fair on Monday. Kaemingk walked away with The Greatest Christmas Supplier gold...
Burford House (BGC), Brigg (BGC), Squire Badshot Lea, Silverbirch, The Old Railway Line and Bents have picked up Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Team golds in GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards, presented at Spring Fair on Monday. Kaemingk walked away with The Greatest Christmas Supplier gold.
Here are all the winners:
The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team - kindly sponsored by Woodlodge
The Greatest Group Garden Centre Christmas Team - kindly sponsored by Woodlodge
Smaller Group Centres
Gold:Burford House - BGC
Silver: Albrighton – BGC
Bronze: Blue Diamond Newbridge, Little Dobbies Richmond, Thatcham – BGC
The Greatest Group Garden Centre Christmas Team - kindly sponsored by Woodlodge
Larger Group Centres
Gold:Squires Badshot Lea, Brigg – BGC
Silver: Blue Diamond Cadbury, Blue Diamond Derby
Bronze: Braintree – BGC
All Group Centre Finalists: Albrighton – BGC, Blue Diamond Cadbury, Blue Diamond Derby, Blue Diamond Newbridge, Braintree – BGC, Brigg Garden Centre – BGC, Burford House – BGC, Little Dobbies Richmond, Squires Badshot Lea, Thatcham – BGC
The Greatest Small Garden Centre Christmas Team - kindly sponsored by DCUK
Gold:Silverbirch
Silver: Newquay Garden Centre
Bronze: Pengelly Garden Centre
Finalists: Hillmount Cheshire, Newquay Garden Centre, Pengelly Garden Centre, Pughs Wenvoe, Silverbirch
The Greatest Mid-Sized Garden Centre Christmas Team - kindly sponsored by DCUK
Gold:The Old Railway Line
Silver: Fron Goch
Bronze: Woodlands Garden Centre
Finalists: Bosworths, Fron Goch, Perrywood Sudbury, Tates South Downs, The Old Railway Line, Woodlands Garden Centre
The Greatest Large Garden Centre Christmas Team - kindly sponsored by Festive
Watch out for The Greatest Christmas Awards photo tours of the centres in future issues of GTN Xtra, starting this coming weekend and in the next issue of GTN magazine.
Thousands of retail buyers, and owners of independent stores from across the UK flocked to Spring Fair at the NEC Birmingham as it opened its doors for the first time in two years...
Thousands of retail buyers, and owners of independent stores from across the UK flocked to Spring Fair at the NEC Birmingham as it opened its doors for the first time in two years.
As the largest and longest running wholesale marketplace encompassing the very best in home, gift and fashion, the busy aisles and stands across all eight Halls showing that retailers are ready for a return to business as usual and in-person trading, with a palpable thirst for newness and desire to re-stock their stores with the latest products and innovations.
Open until Wednesday 9th February, the show is expected to generate tens of millions of pounds worth of business, refuelling the retail industry and injecting newness. Julie Driscoll, Divisional Managing Director, Spring Fair & Moda says; “The show has been bustling all day today, exhibitors are excited to be back and retailers have flocked to the show to return to face to face business and networking. We are still on a high after winning AEO’s Trade Show of the Century Award, and feel genuinely proud to continue to successfully put on the UK’s largest and longest running tradeshow. We can’t wait for the next 3 days, for the start of Curated Meetings tomorrow, and to see retail flourishing once again.”
Exhibitor, Liz Ireland, Managing Director and Founder, Bigjigs Toys said; “It is very good to be here and to be back on the show floor talking to buyers, the visitor attendance has been extremely high for the first day and the quality of buyer has been excellent.”
Exhibitor, Allana Holmes from Hunter Price, said: “This is an exciting time for the business, with new launches on our toy, craft and stationery ranges as well as new homeware collections with Billie Faiers and Style Sisters. We have had a lot of interaction on the stand today with positive reactions and interest in the new products. The buyers we have seen are also looking for ranges with strong visual branding.”
Retailer, Anne Marie Murray from Willow Home & Interiors says: “Spring Fair has been great, fresh looking and its very contemporary. It’s well laid out and easy to get to and find products. It has been a great day so far and we’ve picked up a few names of new companies we didn’t know before.”
Moda settled beautifully into its new home as the Fashion destination at Spring Fair, offering retailers the most diverse fashion buying destination in the UK with a comprehensive and inspiring line-up of industry leading womenswear, jewellery, accessories, footwear, and sustainable brands. Jewellery & Watch had its own distinct edit within Moda giving fashion and jewellery buyers the chance to see the widest collection of new season pieces across a wide variety of price points and explore crossover buying opportunities – all in the one location.
The bold and triumphant return of the Moda catwalk was a welcomed by visitors who were treated to a vibrant edit of looks including the playful and colourful Childhood Dreams, the urban traveller Off The Grid edit, and glam 70s style metallic Liquid Metal trends, as well as sponsored looks from Jayley, Saloos, and One Hundred Stars.
Antony Wright from Barrhead Leather said; “This is our first time showing at Moda at Spring Fair and it’s all going according to plan. In the first morning I’ve signed five new customers, so I’m delighted with the results so far.”
The much-anticipated launch of the game-changing and innovative Curated Meetings programme kicks off tomorrow (Monday 7th) with hundreds of pre-arranged meetings set to take place between buyers and brands. Exhibitors across gift, home and lifestyle categories are taking part including Tallon, Bluestem, ByMolly & Izzie, Hill Interiors, Soake and Silver Jewellery Cavern. Approximately 50% of brands taking part are not exhibiting this year, such as Filofax, Letts of London, Ballard & Hill, Deux Main, Fawn & Thistle, FLO London, McAlister Textiles and We Love Seasons. Buyers are pre-qualified for budget size, purchase responsibility and are actively sourcing, and come from national retailers Asda and Midcounties Coop, multi-store independent boutiques such as Nest and Gibbons, destination retailer Kelvingrove Museum and Ragdale Hall Spa, plus +10% travelling internationally to join the programme, including Houstons and Wallaces Homevalue & Garden Centre.
On the eve of its launch, Product Manager Monica Todd says; “Holding the potential to double your return on investment, taking part in Curated Meetings is a game-changing move. It speeds up the process of doing new business, it connects brands with buyers with meaningful budgets, and efficiently secures relevant connections and new partnerships. So much of the behind-the-scenes work has been done over the last 6 months and I can’t wait to see and hear the buzz of it all coming to life tomorrow. The programme delivers a clear and intelligent roadmap to ROI and is the most genuinely exciting new development in facilitating efficient and productive business that compliments the brand presence of a stand and offers new suppliers for options for taking part in the show.”
On the Inspiring Retail Stage, visitors were encouraged to hear from Karl McKeever, Founder of FutureView, about the opportunities that have arisen as a result of Covid, with many businesses unlearning and relearning behaviours, developing different ways of thinking and doing things, and becoming increasingly creative and collaborative in the process. Interior designer and finalist of TV show Interior Design Masters, Paul Moneypenny discussed his love of design, how to be brave with colour.
As the show came to a close, visitors gathered on the Stage for the Good Retail Awards 2022. Holly Worthington, Editor, Modern Retail from Modern Retail said: “There is a real sense of optimism and the start of a return to normal in the retail industry. As we look back at the positives of the last year the Good Retail Awards are designed to shine a light on the retail industry, those who embraced innovation and great creativity to achieve success.”
This year, as part of its re-launched Power of One campaign, the Good Retail Awards introduced the Power of One Award with the purpose of recognising a business that has made one small change to their business that has made a significant impact. Plastic-free beauty business Whitfords won for the creation of a sustainable, multi-purpose alternative to commonly found packaging.
Spring Fair takes place on 6th – 9th February 2022 at NEC Birmingham. For further Spring Fair information please visit www.springfair.com
Hamac Trading are delighted to announce they are officially launching Hansa Creation Plush Retail Products at the Spring Fair 2022...
Hamac Trading are delighted to announce they are officially launching Hansa Creation Plush Retail Products at the Spring Fair 2022.
Is it real or is it Hansa?
Hansa Creation create the World’s Most Realistic Plush Animal Reproductions. Producing over 7,000 products with over 500 lines carefully selected for our UK stockists.
Hansa offer the Best Quality and Detail on the Market. Hand Crafted and carefully designed to educate and inspire creative play for collectors of all ages. Every animal is anatomically scaled ranging from a small Vole to a 5m tall Giraffe. Every animal is Hand Crafted, Sculpted & Stitched.
Helping to reduce the impact plastics have on the planet, every Hansa Creation is filled with fibre made from recycled PE bottles therefore conserving our natural resources. The materials used are carefully designed and tested to comply with safety standards around the world.
Hansa take great pride in in every product they produce, each animal is provided with an educational fun fact on the individual hangtag. This allows children to learn from their new cuddly toy.
Exclusive display stands, point of sale, Hansa signage and other visual aids are available to enhance your retail or display area.
Hansa Displays
Hansa Displays help to create a magical experience for customers. We have an extensive range of life like large plush animals available with personalised singing/talking and animation.
Hansa Display products can be used as a statement piece to enhance your Retail display or used as a stand-alone attraction.
A full range of Retail, Display & Animatronic Products are in stock and available for immediate delivery please contact our sales office on 028 2583 1201.
After a challenging but incredibly successful Christmas season in 2021, Heaven Sends continue to present a fantastic variety of seasonal home decorations & giftware...
After a challenging but incredibly successful Christmas season in 2021, Heaven Sends continue to present a fantastic variety of seasonal home decorations & giftware.
Although Heaven Sends have made the difficult decision not to exhibit at the trade shows in 2022, they have been working hard behind the scenes to bring you their fabulous newly revamped showrooms. After taking on board their customers feedback, they have decided to maximize their showroom facility, which has proved so popular. Their Christmas collection is more than 4 times what they can exhibit at Trade Shows, and is just one of the many reasons customers now prefer to visit their showrooms. They offer a big welcome to customers old and new, and invite them to book into their showroom to view their exciting NEW ranges for 2022.
We’re really excited to be able to tell you that Heaven Sends’ new Christmas 2022 collection is available NOW to preview & pre-order – including a collection of huge stunning wreath displays which are a new addition for 2022. All of this is beautifully showcased alongside their bestselling Halloween and everyday home & gift ranges at their spectacular Showroom, based near Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, just 20 minutes from the NEC. Their doors are always open and they are more than happy to welcome you in to leisurely browse & be inspired by their vast product ranges, discuss options and place your orders.
Spanning over two floors, the Heaven Sends Showroom is even more expansive than their usual landmark stand at Harrogate Christmas & Gift and NEC Spring Fair and it houses their entire collection. Located away from the busy shows, whilst still being a convenient 20 minutes away from the NEC, their showroom provides a safe & relaxed atmosphere with a delicious lunch & refreshments.
We know that Heaven Sends will always offer you a warm welcome so why not pop in for a visit and enjoy the fantastic variety of seasonal products, home decorations and giftware that we know your customers will love.
You need to hurry though, Showroom visits are limited each week & we’ve been told that they’re filling up fast, so book in today to secure your place. It’s time to start thinking about Christmas 2022 as many of their lines are already selling out fast due to extremely high demand and they would urge you to get in touch with ‘The Angels’ as soon as possible to reserve your preferred showroom appointment & most importantly secure your product selection for 2022.
Can’t make it to their showroom? Secure your Christmas stock online now at www.heavensends.com or their on the road Angels would be more than happy to visit you at your premises.
Appointments are available 7 days a week: with extended showroom opening hours 5th – 11th February (During NEC Spring Fair).
Email sales@heavensends.com or call: 0121 351 7457 Address: One Maybrook Business Park, Maybrook Road, Sutton Coldfield, B76 1AL.
The doors to Spring Fair, the UK’s largest and longest running wholesale marketplace encompassing the best in home, gift and fashion, open today (Sunday) until Wednesday, welcoming thousands of buyers and showcasing tens of thousands of new products and innovations...
The doors to Spring Fair, the UK’s largest and longest running wholesale marketplace encompassing the best in home, gift and fashion, open today (Sunday) until Wednesday, welcoming thousands of buyers and showcasing tens of thousands of new products and innovations.
Its organisers, Hyve Group plc, has announced the re-launch of the Power of One campaign and a renewed focus on sustainability with an impressive number of sustainable and ethical brands showing. Building on the shows Empowering Change manifesto, visitors will also discover a host of inspiring and educational interactive activations onsite.
Successfully launched in 2018 by Hyve Group’s fashion trade show Pure London to galvanise the fashion industry into taking collective action, the Power of One initiative is being adopted across all of Hyve Group’s B2B events in the form of three powerful pledges created to help energise retailers to take small steps to change the world, their mental health, and their environment.
Suzanne Ellingham, Head of Content, Hyve Group plc says; “Power of One is all about small changes leading to big differences. We hope we can use our influence across key retail sectors in a positive way to help effect change in the industry. We have created three simple but impactful pledges to encourage the circular economy, combat overproduction, and prioritise wellness. Conscious decisions are the future of retail and Power of One is here to help shape that future, one decision at a time.”
Pass It On puts the circular economy under the microscope and encourages consumers to give their best-loved items a second lease of life, thus reducing the impact on finite resources and encouraging customers to seek sustainable alternatives. By giving customers more power to reuse, repair and recycle their best-loved items, retailers can also do more to protect the planet. Using schemes like refresh and recycle, retailers are poised to help their customers do better.
Do You Need It combats overproduction at the source and really showcases the power that small steps have to make a huge change. The retail industry must do more to combat overproduction. With 94% of paper receipts binned, this pledge addresses how we can reduce waste in plastic bags, paper and more, encouraging more retailers to offer their customers options such as email receipts, so reducing our reliance on paper and plastic.
Checking In gives retail staff the recognition they deserve. Retail workers are the beating heart of our industry, which is why we’re #CheckingIn. This pledge asks staff the questions that matter, from time off to a healthy work/life balance. As we recover from the pandemic, there has never been a more pertinent time to prioritise mental health and long-term wellness in retail.
Visitors to Spring Fair will be introduced to the Power of One pledges on activation walls which also enable donations to Spring Fair’s wellbeing and charity partner the Retail Trust in support of the Checking In pledge. Power of One pillars explain the powerful pledges and enable visitors to make their own pledge. There will be bins at all entrances for visitors to recycle their show badge. The bins are set up as a voting system so visitors can choose where to post their badge and it will vote for the pledge they want. Pre-registered visitors have been asked to bring their own reusable water bottles and use the water stations positioned round the show
The Sustainability Trail returns for 2022 and highlights the many brilliant brands and suppliers striving to do their part to ensure a more sustainable and ethical future for all. From sourcing materials and manufacturing to the final product and packaging, brands and suppliers are shifting their focus and the Sustainability Trails enables them to celebrate and highlight this with hundreds of brands including Kin, eco rascals, Ling Design, Lola & Blake, Neve’s Bees, Fruu Cosmetics, Pom Pom Galore, Sass & Belle, Orange Tree Toys, Portfolio Home, The Seed Card Company, Rocket 68, Shepherd of Sweden, The Little Green Cracker Company, Wildlife World, Beefayre, Black Yak, Earth Squared, MAI Clothing, Kushboo Soaps, Keel Toys, Denby, DCUK, Sea Gems, Morgan Wright, Pineapple Island, Pukator, Rex London, Squelch, Ulster Weavers, Willsow, Nomads Clothing, and many more taking part.
Ellingham adds: “We have all been talking about it for some time, but this year you can’t miss the sustainability credentials displayed loud and proud. Wholesalers have made a concerted effort to reassess their supply chain and the materials they use, and they are not shy about letting buyers know. We all are aware how important this is to consumers, so it is fantastic to see so many exhibitors making it a priority. In every category, throughout home, gift, fashion, and noticeably in the Christmas section, there is no shortage of sustainable products to add into ranges.”
For visitors keen to go paper-free at the show, they can download the super handy official Spring Fair App featuring new GPS navigation to help find brands and suppliers more easily. It also delivers intelligent AI product recommendations based on your profile and interests. Download it before arrival to help plan beforehand and use it as a personal show guide and planner. Visit www.springfair.com/show-app-visitor for more details.
Wildlife World again flexes its sustainable credentials with the Plastic Free Gardening range of Natural Rubber Seed Cell Trays. Bringing ethically sourced, Fairly Traded, sustainable, long-lasting garden products to the market...
Wildlife World, based in Chavenage, Nr Tetbury, Gloucestershire, provides another product that leads the way in Fairly Traded and a more sustainable marketplace.
Plastic Free Gardening’s range of seed cell trays and a Rootcoach, made from natural FSC rubber are now exclusively available at Wildlife World. The Fairly Traded naturally sourced Plastic Free Gardening range comes in three varieties of the seed tray and one Rootcoach for every green-fingered gardener to enjoy year after year in their gardens.
Mark Pitman, Managing Director at Wildlife World, describes, "We've always had a strong sense of environmental responsibility here at Wildlife World, and it's great to be able to offer another range of Fair Trade natural products to our line up. Many of our customers are looking to protect and preserve the natural environment and the plants that live there, so we believe this new 100% Plastic Free Gardening range will be well received. Hopefully, other companies will follow suit, and we can start a trend towards a much more sustainable and biodiverse future."
Unlike the plastics industry, which is controlled by a few massive multinationals, natural rubber is an entirely sustainable product grown by small farmers or on plantations. Plastic Free Gardening sources only from suppliers whose plantations are certified not to replace natural forests. Due to the current meagre price of natural rubber, many rubber plantings are under threat from conversion to palm oil or beef production. So when you buy our seed trays, you ensure the survival of a valuable, natural resource.
Rubber trees are 'tapped' by small farmers or plantation workers, in theory providing an essential source of revenue. However, the price for natural rubber does not even cover the cost of productions. But because we are members of the Fair Rubber Association, we pay our primary suppliers a Fair Trade premium of EUR 0.50 kg/DRC (Dry Rubber Content) - at present, almost 40% above world market prices. This helps improve the working and living conditions of the primary producers and ensures environmentally friendly, sustainable production. Our primary source for natural rubber is also FSC certified.
Martin Kunz, the creator of the Plastic Free Gardening products, explains: "I was a keen gardener and environmentalist, " in west London. I spent all of my working life sourcing ethical, sustainable products worldwide, and this is my (semi) retirement project. Other people buy a Mercedes; I want to do this."
To find out more details or if you'd like to purchase our Plastic Free Gardening Range, don't hesitate to get in touch with your Wildlife World trade account manager, phone us on 01666 505333, or apply for an online trade account and order on our trade website www.wildlifeworldtrade.co.uk, or email our sales office at info@wildlifeworld.co.uk.
About Wildlife World
Wildlife World is Europe's leading designer and manufacturer of wildlife products, based in Tetbury, Gloucestershire. Their products cover a wide range, including; wildlife and bird feeders, nest boxes, beneficial insect houses and hotels, pollinator habitats, hedgehog houses, bat, frog and toad homes, birdbaths and sophisticated wildlife camera systems.
Conservation has been at the heart of their business since its inception in 1998, using recycled materials where possible and FSC certified timber. The UK based workshop where Wildlife World design and develop their unique products uses renewable energy to operate. More at www.wildlifeworld.co.uk
January garden centre sales have been a cause for celebration, of course up significantly on last year when we were still in Lockdown #3, but most importantly up on January pre-pandemic 2020 by 11% and January 2019 by 22%...
January garden centre sales have been a cause for celebration, of course up significantly on last year when we were still in Lockdown #3, but most importantly up on January pre-pandemic 2020 by 11% and January 2019 by 22%.
Now a great January doesn’t always mean that trend may continue as the weather plays a big part but plant, growing media and garden product sales volumes indicate great levels of demand. That should be a good omen for the season to come.
On Monday, February 7, we will be celebrating with great garden centre teams as we announce the winners of GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards. If you are at Spring Fair on Monday afternoon do come and join us on the Inspiring Retail stage in Hall 6 at 5pm. We’d love to see you there!
GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week in 2021: week 4.
Garden Products Top 50 – up 167%
Growing Media Top 50 – up 549%
Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – up 131%
Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – up 95%
GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week in 2021: week 4
All Plants with Barcode index – up 331%
All Items with Barcode index – up 233%
See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.
What great news for our industry – plant sales in January were up by a third on the pre-pandemic levels of 2019...
What great news for our industry – plant sales in January were up by a third on the pre-pandemic levels of 2019.
Highlights of the week were:
Planted bulbs sold very well last week. Narcissus sales increased by 42% to move up to No 2.
Planted Tulips were a chart re-entry at No 15.
Salvia sales grew to move them 16 places up the GTN Top 50 to No 24.
See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.
With the London Landmarks Half Marathon fast approaching (April 3rd), don’t be surprised to see several members of the garden retail sector getting their practice in, as 11 people have already signed up to fundraising for the Greenfingers charity at this most unusual road race. But don’t worry if you think you’ve missed out as there is still one place to be filled!
With the London Landmarks Half Marathon fast approaching (April 3rd), don’t be surprised to see several members of the garden retail sector getting their practice in, as 11 people have already signed up to fundraising for the Greenfingers charity at this most unusual road race. But don’t worry if you think you’ve missed out as there is still one place to be filled!
So far runners from Evergreen Garden Care, British Garden Centres, Capi Europe and AMES UK have secured a place at the event, all ready to take on the 13-mile route whilst helping to raise much needed funds for Greenfingers. All monies raised by the racers will allow the charity to create even more therapeutic garden spaces at children’s hospices across the country. With just one more place to fill, the race is on to see who will join the line-up.
Entry to the London Landmarks Half Marathon is free though the Greenfingers fundraising team ask that a minimum fundraising target of £500 is set. Anyone interested in securing the last spot on the team is invited to email Linda Petrons, Greenfingers Director of Fundraising & Communications via linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk
About the London Landmarks Half Marathon
Launched in 2014, the London Landmarks Half Marathon has been set up to shine a spotlight on not just London’s iconic landmarks, but also its quirky hidden gems. The route - which starts at Nelson’s Column before taking in such landmarks as London Eye, Big Ben, Downing Street, the world’s smallest police station, the largest grasshopper, Guy Fawkes house and so much more – travels through the heart of Westminster and London City, whilst celebrating the rich heritage and culture that shapes our nation’s capital.
To keep runners motivated, the route will also be adorned with musical performances, DJs, dancers and themed cheer stations, including a floral themed Greenfingers one! All roads will remain closed for the duration of the race.
Find out more
To find out more about Greenfingers Charity, and how to get involved in a range of fundraising events 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.
Neudorff, pioneer of natural gardening since 1854, is investing in online content to nurture the next generation of consumers, in a move that will help garden centre retailers to attract a younger demographic with phenomenal spending power...
Neudorff, pioneer of natural gardening since 1854, is investing in online content to nurture the next generation of consumers, in a move that will help garden centre retailers to attract a younger demographic with phenomenal spending power.
The German pioneer of plant protection and plant care products is expanding its free online guides and ‘how-to’ videos for 2022, to inspire and boost the confidence of millions of fledgling gardeners while driving demand for its organic fertiliser range.
Set to feature on Neudorff’s website and YouTube channel, content will highlight the USPs of the company’s portfolio focusing on key topics such as how to plant roses, easy grow-your-own crops including peppers and cultivation of Italian herbs. Videos and projects will highlight the benefits of Neudorff’s redesigned organic liquid and solid fertiliser offering, including the solid Organic Multipurpose Plant Food as well as the liquid Organic Multipurpose Plant Feed, Organic Tomato Feed, Organic Rose Feed and Super Strength Seaweed Extract.
Fresh online content will also focus on how to create bee-friendly balconies, building on the success of Neudorff’s 2021 activities, which targeted consumers who may be renting a property or have limited space to grow flowers, fruit and vegetables. Previous topics that promoted fertiliser sales included building raised beds and growing potatoes and strawberries on patios and balconies.
Guy Jenkins, Consumer Manager at Neudorff’s UK distribution Partner, DLF Seeds Ltd, said: “For decades, the garden retail sector has been deliberating over how to attract a younger, cash-rich but time-poor demographic that is keen to engage
in horticulture but often lacks confidence. It is well known that gardening skills are no longer being passed down through family generations. By investing in producing free video content and project pages that can easily be accessed and shared online, Neudorff is helping to promote fertiliser sales to a wider audience. Greater engagement with consumers is an essential element of the company’s mission to help UK retailers expand sales of organic fertilisers to a generation that has sustainability and environmental awareness at the core of their purchasing decisions.”
Neudorff’s commitment to expanding its offering of free videos and online projects will build on the success of previous online features, such as ‘What you need to know about aphids’. New content will reinforce the message that regular feeding is essential for healthy flowers, fruit and vegetables – arming consumers with the knowledge to head to stores and select liquid and solid organic fertilisers from Neudorff’s leading range.
Wyevale Nurseries in Herefordshire is helping a charity in the county with its fundraising efforts by donating trees for a planting initiative...
Wyevale Nurseries in Herefordshire is helping a charity in the county with its fundraising efforts by donating trees for a planting initiative.
The leading commercial landscape and wholesale British plant supplier is assisting St Michael’s Hospice in Hereford with an eco-friendly, remembrance scheme.
Adrian Hoare, Cash and Carry Sales Manager, explains: “We’re delighted to be helping the charity by donating some young, bare root trees, at around 0.8 – 1.5m in height, for this initiative. It’s a wonderful way to kick off the year in an environmentally sound fashion, while also fundraising for the charity.”
Wyevale Nurseries has donated four tree varieties for people to choose from, which will provide year-round interest for a long period of time. They include rowan/mountain ash, silver birch, European beech, also known as copper or purple beech, and hornbeam.
Simon Kershaw, Events and Community Fundraising Executive at St Michael’s Hospice says: “We’re really excited about our new, and first ever, tree planting initiative in partnership with Wyevale Nurseries.
“At a time when we all need to be considering our carbon footprint, what better way to do this than getting out into the garden with the family and planting your own tree.
“Planting a tree is also a fitting way to remember a loved one and provide a living legacy to that person while supporting the Hospice in the process.”
St Michael’s Hospice’s tree packs cost £20 each and include an individual’s chosen tree, a cane support and a tree guard, as well as a ‘How to’ plant guide.
Simon adds: “Everyone and anyone can get involved! All you need is an appropriate space in your garden and you can plant a beautiful tree that will last a lifetime.
“Those that sign up will be able to collect their tree from St Michael’s Hospice in Bartestree, Hereford between March 7-11, from 9am until 5pm.”
A fundraising bid aiming to secure the future of 'Floral Fantasia' at RHS Garden Hyde Hall, has been launched today by an industry group who hope to continue and evolve the popular bedding display, developed in recent years by the late Peter Seabrook...
A fundraising bid aiming to secure the future of 'Floral Fantasia' at RHS Garden Hyde Hall, has been launched today by an industry group who hope to continue and evolve the popular bedding display, developed in recent years by the late Peter Seabrook.
Peter, who passed away on 14 January 2022, poured much time and energy into helping grow 'Floral Fantasia' over the past three years, into what is a spectacular showcase of seasonal UK bedding at the Chelmsford garden, and features colourful and diverse planting including Rudbeckia, Calendula and Sweet Pea, a favourite of Peter's.
His vision for Floral Fantasia, as a display area to inspire gardeners, a trial location to assess new varieties, and a facility for training and education in the use of seasonal ornamental plants, is part of Peter's legacy to British horticulture.
The RHS has confirmed its commitment to the project at Hyde Hall for the next three years when funding has been secured. Its plan for 2022 include a spring viola trial and an extensive trial of poppies as part of the 'Year of the Poppy' celebration, along with the usual planting of sweet peas and new variety demonstrations.
Fundraising has now been initiated to continue Peter's legacy and a working group, formed during a meeting at Hyde Hall last week includes the following individuals:
Michael Smith (W. D. Smith & Son) (Chair)
Paul Hansord (Deputy Chair)
Ian Le Gros (RHS)( (Deputy Chair)
Robert Brett (RHS)
Tim Kerley (Kerley&Co)
Stuart Lowen (Ball Colegrave)
Molly Christman (RHS Floral Fantasia Apprentice)
Ian Bull (RHS)
Christine Woodhouse (RHS)
This group will approach businesses and individuals for donations to support the long-term development of the 2000 m2 Floral Fantasia as a 'Centre of Excellence' for seasonal plants and the use of colour in the landscape.
GTN's Greatest Awards will be revealed at Spring Fair tomorrow (Monday) and the winners will receive their honours on the Inspiring Retail stage in Hall 6 at 5pm.
GTN's Greatest Awards will be revealed at Spring Fair tomorrow (Monday) and the winners will receive their honours on the Inspiring Retail stage in Hall 6 at 5pm.
After weeks of meetings, debate and discussion the judges have finally decided upon the winners of GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards 2021 and we will be announcing the winners and presenting the Gold, Silver and Bronze awards on the Inspiring Retail Stage at Spring Fair in Hall 6 on Monday 7th February at 5:00pm, where we’ll also have some drinks and snacks available for all those who can join us for our celebration of all that’s great about garden centre Christmas retailing.
If you are not able to attend Spring Fair on Monday the Awards will be streamed Live via the Spring Fair app which can be downloaded from the Spring Fair website: https://www.springfair.com/show-app-visitor
Our team of judges had a truly wonderful time visiting all of the 57 garden centres nominated in this year's awards and were overwhelmed by the excellence of garden centre retail teamwork once again, despite continuing difficult circumstances. We look forward to celebrating that excellence with as many garden centre teams as possible on Monday evening.
Huge thanks goes to our sponsors: Woodlodge, Elho, DCUK, Solex Global Journey, Glee and Kaemingk for making the judges' face to face visits possible this year.
Here's the list of the centres who were finalists across the 14 categories that were judged this year:
Albrighton – BGC, Altons, Aylett Nurseries, Barton Grange, Bents, Blue Diamond Cadbury, Blue Diamond Derby, Blue Diamond Newbridge, Bosworths, Braintree – BGC, Brigg Garden Centre – BGC, Burford House – BGC, Cherry Lane Podington, Downtown Garden Centre, Fron Goch, Garsons Esher, Gates Garden Centre, Gouldings, Groves Bridport, Hetland, Hillmount Cheshire, Lakeside Plant Centre, Little Dobbies Richmond, Millbrook Gravesend, Newquay Garden Centre, Pengelly Garden Centre, Perrywood Sudbury, Perrywood Tiptree, Planters Bretby, Planters Tamworth, Pughs Radyr, Pughs Wenvoe, Rosebourne – Aldermaston, Rosebourne – Weyhill, Sapcote Garden Centre, Silverbirch, Squires Badshot Lea, Studley – BGC, Tates South Downs, Thatcham – BGC, The Old Railway Line, Webbs Wychbold, Woodbank Garden Centre, Woodlands Garden Centre
And here's the list of categories they are vying to be The Greatest in:
The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team
The Greatest Outdoor Plant and Christmas Tree Team
The Greatest Festive Food Hall Team
The Greatest Christmas Sizzle Team
The Greatest Christmas Pets Team
The Greatest Christmas Community or Charity Initiative
The Greatest Social Media Christmas Marketing Idea
The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Video
The Greatest Winter Garden Care Sales Team
The Greatest Covid Safe Christmas Team
The Greatest Group Garden Centre Christmas Team
The Greatest Small Garden Centre Christmas Team
The Greatest Mid-Sized Garden Centre Christmas Team
The Greatest Large Garden Centre Christmas Team
To whet your appetite for the galleries of garden centre Christmas photos we'll be bringing you in GTN Xtra and GTN magazine over the coming weeks and months, here are photos from one of our early judging visits to Burford House - BGC.
Spring Fair, the UK's most diverse, vibrant, and exciting wholesale marketplace for home, gift, and fashion which opens its doors this Sunday, is pleased to announce two incredible charity initiatives with the Retail Trust and the Greetings Card Association (GCA), which launch at the show.
Spring Fair, the UK's most diverse, vibrant, and exciting wholesale marketplace for home, gift, and fashion which opens its doors this Sunday, is pleased to announce two incredible charity initiatives with the Retail Trust and the Greetings Card Association (GCA), which launch at the show.
In support of its wellbeing charity partner the Retail Trust, Spring Fair is inviting all visitors to donate £5 to the charity if they walk 5,000 steps during their visit to the show. Scan the QR codes located at the entrances of the halls to donate and receive one of the limited numbers of Retail Trust bags being given out as a thank you.
Stuart Thomas, Head of Global Partnerships at Hyve Group plc says; “Don’t just talk the talk, at this year’s show we want you to walk the walk too. Let’s get moving to see the many amazing exhibitors at this year’s Spring Fair, and at the same time raise funds together because support makes us all stronger and now is a crucial time for protecting and improving the lives of retail workers.”
Spring Fair has also partnered up with the Greeting Cards Association to support Thinking of You Week which takes place on the 19th – 25thSeptember 2022. Kicking off its campaign at the show, GCA and Spring Fair organisers are creating a large Thinking of You wall display in Hall 3 of donated greetings cards to highlight Thinking of You Week. There is also an opportunity for visitors to scan the QR code on the wall and donate to the Retail Trust and support their work.
Spring Fair also work with GCA members to ensure the residents of the Retail Trust have cards to send to their loved ones, carers, fellow residents, and the amazing staff at Marshall Estate in Mill Hill for Thinking of You Week. Receiving cards has been particularly important for those self-isolating away from loved ones this year. A card creates a lasting positive boost, helping to stave off feelings of loneliness and isolation and cards displayed at home are reminders that someone cares.
Commenting on the Government’s publication of it’s ‘Levelling up’ White Paper, James Clark, Director of Policy & Communications at the Horticultural Trades Association said: “The horticulture industry has a vital role to play in reducing imbalances between areas and social groups in this country..."
Commenting on the Government’s publication of it’s ‘Levelling up’ White Paper, James Clark, Director of Policy & Communications at the Horticultural Trades Association said:
“The horticulture industry has a vital role to play in reducing imbalances between areas and social groups in this country. Our industry is present throughout the country from city centres to the suburbs, through to hard to reach rural areas. With the majority of our members being Small and Medium Sized businesses they are the backbone of local economies.
We want to see nature-based solutions better recognised in this ‘levelling up’ agenda through a greater role in cross-government policymaking. With the potential for the industry to grow from £28.8bn to c.£42bn by 2030, we can drive economic and social change - providing the plants and gardens which improve local air quality and environments, improve physical and mental health, while supporting people to take pride in their local communities.
We need to see progress on the white paper mission promises to improve local infrastructure and public transport – particularly in rural areas - skills and productivity. Putting horticulture at the heart of ‘greening our economy’ will help deliver a happier, more sustainable society and economy”.
Hillier has announced that a staggering total of £24,041 has been donated to Maggie’s, the company’s charity partner of the last three years...
Hillier has announced that a staggering total of £24,041 has been donated to Maggie’s, the company’s charity partner of the last three years.
Since 2019, Hillier has been proud to be in partnership with the national cancer support charity, dedicated to providing free practical, emotional and social support across the UK, to help those with cancer and their family and friends. During this time, Hillier has carried out an array of fundraising activities to support Maggie’s, while offering wider support too.
In 2019, Hillier was delighted to work with the charity in the creation of the new Maggie’s in Southampton, which features a pioneering architectural design and stunning landscaped surrounding gardens. In addition to providing more than 100 British-grown trees from the company’s nurseries in Hampshire, Hillier aided with hard and soft landscaping to enable the charity to direct more money into the day-to-day running of the centre.
Discussing the partnership, Retail and Wholesale Director of Hillier, Chris Francis, commented: “We’re delighted to have built such a fruitful relationship with Maggie’s and to have been able to help with, not just financial support through fundraising, but also to offer horticultural expertise that we were honoured to share. Sadly, half of the UK population will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime, so there is a vital need for these thoughtful, practical spaces and we are grateful to have been involved in developing this with Maggie’s. We look forward to continuing supporting them with ongoing activities.”
Maggie’s Fundraising Manager, Gemma McKnight, said: “Partnerships such us ours with Hillier over the last three years allow us to keep supporting people at what is possibly the hardest time of their lives. We see people come into our centres with the weight of the world on their shoulders, but they leave looking lighter and as if they feel hopeful once more.
We help people to live better with cancer by supporting them through their fear, anxiety, stress and money worries and much more. We rely almost entirely on voluntary donations to support people living with cancer, as well as family and friends, so we are so grateful to Hillier for selecting us as their Charity. Thank you.”
Donations from sales of afternoon teas in Hillier Garden Centres, collection tins across the centres, sales from recipe books, tickets for tours of Hillier Wholesale Nursery, a charity coffee morning at Hillier Garden Centre Botley and contributions through the purchases of Heuchera during the whole of September 2021, all contributed towards the £24,041 donation.
For further information, visit www.hillier.co.uk, find Hillier Garden Centres on Facebook, or @Hilliergardencentres on Instagram.
Following a period of continued growth, Durston Garden Products has taken steps to ensure the ongoing longevity of its growing media offering with two significant investments in machinery...
Following a period of continued growth, Durston Garden Products has taken steps to ensure the ongoing longevity of its growing media offering with two significant investments in machinery.
These two latest investments have been put in place to, not just improve product production rates, but to also ensure that Durstons products are of the highest possible quality, helping to further cement its position as a true stalwart of the industry.
Investment 1: Increase production capacity
Adding additional bagging machinery to its Somerset-based production facility has enabled the team to effectively double its production capacity; in turn, helping Durstons to better manage stock holding ahead of the 2022 season. This additional machinery can fulfil the filling, packaging and palletisation of an additional 20 bags of its market-leading growing media offering every minute.
To date, Durstons has accrued stock holding in excess of 40% of anticipated stock requirements for 2022, supported by its dedicated logistics team to ensure delivery can be made to any of its UK-based customers within as little as five days.
Investment 2: Improved product quality, thanks to new screening machines
Representative of Durstons’ largest investment in recent years, is the introduction of two new state-of-the-art Komptech screens. These machines utilise different-sized screen holes that effectively sieve the peat-free material to ensure that only the optimum particle size passes through and is bagged. As a result, retailers can rest assured that every bag will be free of any oversized material that may have previously been present.
Durstons Sales Director, Dan Durston, said: “The feedback from our retail customers is vitally important to us, so when there are issues or concerns, we will always look for solutions and the investment of our new screens is demonstrative of this. For us, quality is key, as it not only delivers results for the end users, but it can also drive customer loyalty. By improving the quality of our peat-free offering, thanks to the expert screening tools, we believe we have created an offering that stands apart in the growing media category.”
Find out more
Somerset-based Durstons has been established for over 150 years. Find out more at www.durstongardenproducts.co.uk or call 01458 442688.
New for 2022 from British garden equipment manufacturer Handy is the Webb Supreme range of hand pushed lawnmowers, which come with a host of features and resilient design at an excellent price point...
New for 2022 from British garden equipment manufacturer Handy is the Webb Supreme range of hand pushed lawnmowers, which come with a host of features and resilient design at an excellent price point.
Available with a choice of high quality aluminium or steel cutter decks, ball bearing wheels and premium Briggs & Stratton engines, Webb Supreme Lawnmowers are built to last. There are three models in the range: an 18” with 450e engine; an18” with 500e engine; and the top of the range 21” with an EXI725 engine.
For maximum flexibility and convenience, Webb Supreme Lawnmowers come with eight height of cut settings, from 25mm to 80mm, which are quickly and easily adjusted through a single lever movement. Clippings are gathered in up to large 70 litre easy fit collector fabric bag with hard top, or can be discharged to the side or rear, or mulched, using an innovative 4-in-1 function.
This 4-in-1 function is just one of a host of premium features that you wouldn’t necessarily expect to find on lawnmowers at this price point. Further features of note include clearly visible red OPC and drive levers, an integrated grass full indicator, easy to access throttle control, and quick release lever to fold handles for storage; all of which make for exceptional ease of use.
For maximum manoeuvrability over any surface, Webb Supreme Lawnmowers come with extra large ball bearing rear wheels, making for a smooth run and eliminating damage that can be caused by narrow wheels digging into your lawn and leaving unsightly tracks.
All Webb Supreme Lawnmowers come with a two year warranty and are compatible with E5 and E10 fuel, although Handy always recommend the use of fuel stabilisers with the latter to extend the life of the fuel and to protect the engine. A full range of spares, including blades and collection bags, are held in stock.
“As one of the market leaders, Webb has a reputation for quality product that’s sensibly priced” states Mark Moseley, Sales & Marketing Director for Handy. “For our new range of Supreme lawnmowers, we have invested considerable resources into pinpointing what customers really want from their lawnmower and ensuring our products meet – and exceed - those needs. This new flagship range of lawnmowers is a culmination of many years’ experience in this market and the close relationship we have with our customers. We have put our heart and soul into every part of this machinery as it’s not just lawnmowers to us; it’s satisfied gardeners creating beautiful sways of greenery!”
Supreme Lawnmowers are the latest addition to the Webb lawnmower range which include the highly affordable yet feature rich Gardeners’ World magazine Best Buy Classic 1300w electric rotary lawnmower through to the premium 21″ Alloy Deck Disc Bladed Self Propelled Petrol Rotary Lawnmower.
To discover more on the Webb Supreme Lawnmowers and to purchase direct, please go to www.webbgardenpower.co.uk
Happy New Year to you all. We hope you all had a good and safe festive period and are now looking forward to an exciting 2022.
Since New Year the GTN gnomes have been beavering away to compile the Top 100 stories read in GTN Xtra last year as our review of 2021.
During 2021 we published in excess of 2,500 stories in GTN Xtra which was opened 390,397 times by 34,334 unique readers who viewed 856,595 pages. Added to that are the pages of GTN magazines published through the year which have been read on line almost 33,000 times (you can catch up with any you may have missed using the links on the bottom right hand side of this GTN Xtra edition) as well as the many thousands of readers of the printed copies.
We've thoroughly enjoyed bringing you all the news, views and ideas during 2021 and we hope you found them useful and informative. Here's to an even greater 2022!
Garden product sales in January were up by 11% on 2020 and 2% on 2019...
Garden product sales in January were up by 11% on 2020 and 2% on 2019.
Of course there was a higher increase vs 2021 but we were still in Lockdown #3 this time last year, so this year’s sales, including early bird sales offers, are not a fair comparison, but a good indicator that demand is high, particularly for pots.
Highlights of the week were:
Woodlodge Spang Pot 5" Standard was the highest re-entry last week, back in at No 6.
Smart Garden Briers Sicilian Lemon Comfi Gloves Medium were the highest new entry at No 10.
Woodlodge Probee2 Pot 32cm, a winner in the GIMA Awards, were a new entry at No 39.
See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.
The Garden Centre Association is hosting some of the first elements of its annual conference virtually for members on Thursday (February 10)...
The Garden Centre Association is hosting some of the first elements of its annual conference virtually for members on Thursday (February 10).
Its annual general meeting (AGM) will take place on February 10 for full members only. A virtual awards presentation will take place on February 15, which is open to all GCA garden centre and Associate members.
Iain Wylie, GCA Chief Executive, said: “Although we are currently in the process of confirming alternative dates for our annual conference, we felt we needed to take some of the first elements of it online.
“Our AGM meeting will now take place virtually on Thursday, February 10. Our members should have received an invitation to join, however, if not, they can get in touch with us via info@gca.org.uk in order to receive a link.
“After the AGM, we will be talking about our strategy plan for the year, which is our plan to keep the GCA relevant and fit for the future. We will be discussing the best ways to connect garden centres in the UK, inspire and support them and how they can grow and adapt.
“On February 15, we will be hosting a day of scheduled presentations streamed live online This will include our inspection round-up highlighting the best of garden centre retailing seen by our team of inspectors in 2021 and we will be announcing the winners of our Christmas and Ruxley Rose competitions.
“We will also be hosting our garden centre awards and announcing all the winners before going ahead with our pre-season inspection presentation to help centres prepare for the spring 2022. Anyone can get in touch with us via info@gca.org.uk in order to receive a link to join the event.
“It’s really important that all members get involved with events like these as they shape our organisation.”
While January growing media sales are only a small proportion of the whole year’s sales January movements year on year can be misleading...
While January growing media sales are only a small proportion of the whole year’s sales January movements year on year can be misleading.
However, this year’s doubling of sales vs 2020 and recording a 50% increase vs 2019 bodes very well for the rest of the spring season. Weather permitting of course.
Highlights of the week were:
Evergreen Garden Care Levington Tomorite Giant Planter with Seaweed is the highest climber in the chart this week, up 30 places to No 19.
Westland New Horizon All Plant Compost 40L is the highest Top 50 Chart re-entry at No 28.
Growth Technology Cactus Potting Mix 3L is a new entry at No 49.
See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.
Wild Bird Care sales have got off to a flying start this year but comparisons should be made to 2020 and 2019 where we can see that January volumes are down. That may be due to the ‘better’ than usual weather during the month. February sales will be interesting to watch.
Wild Bird Care sales have got off to a flying start this year but comparisons should be made to 2020 and 2019 where we can see that January volumes are down. That may be due to the ‘better’ than usual weather during the month. February sales will be interesting to watch.
Highlights of the week were:
Marriages Honeyfields Half Coconuts Feeder continues at No 1 in the GTN Wild Bird Care Chart.
Henry Bell Superior Fat Balls, pack of 6 see sales volumes grow by 350% to re-enter at No 50.
Gardman Mealworm Suet Treats 500g + 100% Free climbed furthest up the chart to No 18.
See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.
The Horticultural Trades Association has recognised the importance of research and market insights and horticultural advice to members with two new appointments. Dave Denny has been promoted to the newly created role of Director of Research & Insights and Martin Simmons will take on a new position as Head of Horticulture...
The Horticultural Trades Association has recognised the importance of research and market insights and horticultural advice to members with two new appointments. Dave Denny has been promoted to the newly created role of Director of Research & Insights and Martin Simmons will take on a new position as Head of Horticulture.
Dave Denny, previously Futures & Sustainability Manager, will be part of the Senior Leadership Team and attend HTA Board meetings. The HTA has identified data and insights as a key proposition for member value – in terms of providing market and industry data to help them with their business development, to increase our industry leadership on industry trends and to help enhance our representation to government. Dave will also continue to develop the HTA’s Sustainability Roadmap.
While Martin Simmons will continue to cover the Director of Membership role in the interim until a new person is appointed, his new role will give the HTA the chance to increase its capabilities on horticulture-matters. The recent appointment of Wayne Brough as Technical Horticulture Manager, alongside Pippa Greenwood continuing as Horticulture Manager, shows how dedicated horticultural advice and expertise is being recognised by the HTA. Martin will focus on HTA committees and groups, as well as specific horticultural activity and projects, including Plant Healthy.
James Barnes, Chairman of the HTA said: “These new appointments demonstrate how the HTA continues to develop and strengthen member value. It builds on our strategic ambition to grow our relevant and insightful information that not only informs our membership, but also influences our lobbying and connections with Government”.
Dave Denny added: “I’m excited at the chance to further develop the market research and sustainability programmes and resources that we provide for members. Having a compelling evidence-base to use in our work with government and media is key to promote members’ interests.”
Martin Simmons commented: “I’m thoroughly looking forward to my new role. It’s been a great experience over the last 15 years working my way up from the field team to being a part of the Senior Leadership Team and helping to shape the future of our Association. I’m going to be focusing on improving our committees and groups engagement, alongside strengthening our support for growers.”
The Director of Membership role will be advertised and recruited in due course. It will include member experience and retention, alongside increasing recruitment, Board participation and the 2022 focus on our value proposition and longer-term improvements.
SBM Life Science has expanded its UK marketing team as part of its strategy for growth within the industry, with the appointment of a new dedicated product manager. Kate Lindley, who joined the team at the start of the New Year, will manage a range of products and brands within SBM’s UK portfolio, including the iconic houseplant food, Baby Bio, Job Done and Maxicrop.
SBM Life Science has expanded its UK marketing team as part of its strategy for growth within the industry, with the appointment of a new dedicated product manager.
Kate Lindley, who joined the team at the start of the New Year, will manage a range of products and brands within SBM’s UK portfolio, including the iconic houseplant food, Baby Bio, Job Done and Maxicrop.
Having previously held the position of brand manager for Westland Horticulture, as well as a host of EU roles in marketing and account management within the horticulture arena, Kate joins SBM with years of relevant industry experience.
Amongst her key responsibilities, Kate will deliver new products across each brand as well as implement a communication strategy to strengthen relationships with retail partners and increase brand awareness to end-users, all while working with the wider team to grow SBM’s market shares.
Her first project will focus on the launch of the new Baby Bio® Organic Houseplant Food, available to consumers from February 2022, having led a lifestyle photography shoot for the brand during her first weeks with the company.
James Ramnought, Marketing Director for SBM Life Science commented: “We are delighted to welcome Kate to SBM’s marketing team, who brings years of invaluable experience, industry knowledge and a genuine passion to the position.”
The appointment follows SBM’s recent announcement into its investment in marketing for 2022, which will see a hive of activity across all brands during the key season, including digital, print and broadcast advertising, new in-store POS materials, and a partnership with specialist PR and social media agency, Honest Communications.
Nick Walton, UK Managing Director for SBM Life Science, added: “We have ambitious plans for future growth across all brands, with a host of exciting new product launches expanding our already impressive portfolio and an extensive, multi-channel marketing strategy lined up to support our retail partners in raising awareness, driving footfall, and ultimately increasing sales.”
Kate said: “I’m thrilled to join SBM Life Science. As market leaders in the gardening category, it is an honour to work on some of the UK’s best-loved brands, like Baby Bio®, and I’m very much so looking forward to getting stuck in and delivering some exciting projects this year.”
The Rolawn Group has expanded its team with three new senior appointments to support its growth plans...
The Rolawn Group has expanded its team with three new senior appointments to support its growth plans.
Ken Brewster joins the Yorkshire based company as in the new role of Group Marketing Director, with Clive Barstow joining the business as Head of Sales for Rolawn’s new sub-brand BioScapes. As part of the BioScapes® brand, which has recently launched, Terry Smithson has been appointed as Biodiversity Manager.
Brewster joins Rolawn from Husqvarna Group and brings with him a wealth of expertise in the marketing industry. With over 15 years’ experience at Marketing Director level, he has developed an invaluable insight across various marketing sectors, including outdoor power equipment, DIY, and outdoor leisure.
Throughout his career, Brewster has worked to understand the needs of clients and consumers in developing successful business strategies that achieved high levels of growth and market share.
Barstow has more than 30 years of business management experience, including roles across Europe with major brands, where he has developed new businesses contributing to the growth of existing concepts.
His passion for the countryside and nature, combined with his knowledge of building new business concepts in the horticultural space, has seen him play a fundamental role in the roll out of BioScapes’® new range of products.
A qualified ecologist, Smithson boasts extensive experience in nature conservation and has helped to develop the BioScapes® sub brand and subsequent products.
Smithson has spent a career of more than 30 years guiding various stakeholders in ecology and environmental management to achieve biodiversity net gain. With over 15 years in Director level roles within Wildlife Trusts, he has led significant programmes of work to deliver economic regeneration and landscape restoration.
All three acquisitions add further knowledge and experience to the Rolawn team.
Jonathan Hill continues in his role as Sales Director for the group, with specific focus on growing sales and market share in the core turf and topsoil business with the Rolawn and Hallstone brands.
Managing Director of Rolawn, Paul Dawson, said: “At Rolawn we pride ourselves on maintaining exceptionally high standards in every product and service we offer, so it is important to us to bring people into the organisation who can not only align with those, but also push them up. There is no doubt that Ken, Clive, and Terry fit this mould.
“It’s tremendous to have them involved in our organisation. They have joined at an important time, with all three hitting the ground running to help prepare the launch of our new BioScapes brand, championing an important message about biodiversity.”
Brewster said: “I’m delighted to have joined Rolawn, a company with a reputation for setting consistently high standards across the gardening and horticultural sector.
“To help shape a number of new projects for the company in addition to driving growth of existing products is really exciting and I’m looking forward to what the company can achieve this year.”
Barstow said: “When I discussed the prospect of BioScapes launching under the Rolawn name I jumped at the chance to be involved.
“It’s terrific to be able to play a small part in shaping a brand which is revolutionising the way we look at biodiversity, and I have no doubt this will make a substantial impact for all concerned across the sector.”
Smithson said “The need for people to get closer to nature and to act to restore biodiversity has never been more apparent. BioScapes provides a simple and effective way for people to do this, and I am delighted to be able to help.”
For more information about Rolawn and the products they offer, please visit: https://www.rolawn.co.uk/
The best of last week's
If you missed last week's GTN Xtra, below are the most-read stories...
RocketGro continues to grow out its presence in the UK Peat-Free Compost market, keeping their prices down to £2.90 a bag delivered for their premium product range...
RocketGro continues to grow out its presence in the UK Peat-Free Compost market, keeping their prices down to £2.90 a bag delivered for their premium product range.
RocketGro will supply all 18 Notcutts stores with their growing media product range as of February to start the season.
Commenting on the new supplier relationship with Notcutts, Toby Thomas Director and co-founder of the RocketGro business said: ‘’We are really pleased to be working with Notcutts this year. As one of the longest established garden centre groups in the UK we feel that working with Notcutts is something to be proud off. We have been in discussion with Colin at Notcutts since we met at GLEE last year and his knowledge and passion for the industry is impressive. We are delighted that Colin and his team have decided to stock our Peat-Free RocketGro products.’’
Colin Dale lead buyer at Notcutts commented: “RocketGro was the big stand out supplier at GLEE this year, with a fresh new look & a new slant of peat free alternatives.”
January garden centre sales are heading for a new record volume level for the month, according to Epos data analysed weekly by GTN Bestsellers. Sales are not only up on 2021 levels, when we were in Lockdown #3, but to date, after three weeks of the month, are 15% ahead of 2019 levels, the previous best start to January recorded by GTN Bestsellers...
January garden centre sales are heading for a new record volume level for the month, according to Epos data analysed weekly by GTN Bestsellers. Sales are not only up on 2021 levels, when we were in Lockdown #3, but to date, after three weeks of the month, are 15% ahead of 2019 levels, the previous best start to January recorded by GTN Bestsellers.
After the initial rush to scoop up early bird gardening offers and Christmas sales running down, week on week volumes dropped for product sales but plant sales moved up by 8.5%.
Garden centres are also reporting garden furniture sales as soon as products go out on display, which will be pushing turnover for the month up to unprecedented levels.
And at every garden centre we’ve visited this week catering has been going great guns. Hopefully the weather stays on our side for this weekend and into February.
GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week in 2021: week 3.
Garden Products Top 50 – down 16%
Growing Media Top 50 – up 613%
Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – up 220%
Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – up 147%
GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week in 2021: week 3
All Plants with Barcode index – up 390%
All Items with Barcode index – up 226%
See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.
After two years and a lot of uncertainty in the months running up to the show due to the Covid pandemic, Harrogate Christmas & Gift finally took place – and what an absolute resounding success it was for everyone involved.
After two years and a lot of uncertainty in the months running up to the show due to the Covid pandemic, Harrogate Christmas & Gift finally took place – and what an absolute resounding success it was for everyone involved.
Simon Anslow, show organiser, explains: “We are absolutely delighted with how successful this year’s show has been and thank everyone who participated for giving us their confidence, voting with their feet and turning up in hoards. Visitor numbers were marginally lower than the 2020 show, but exhibitors have reported full order books and brisk business for the entire four days. In fact, some exhibitors have stated that this was not only their best Harrogate Christmas & Gift show, but their best of all trade shows ever.”
Previous exhibitor Sifcon International (SIL) gave positive feedback with Alan Pimm, managing director, commenting: “I am pleased to say that we had a fantastic show. The stand was continuously busy and the value of orders far exceeded our expectations. We also saw a higher volume of new customers this year and will definitely be returning next year.”
Helen Marshall of Walton & Co reiterated this saying: “The show has been a great success for us and it was lovely to catch up with retailers – not just buyers but business owners too. Expectations were met and exceeded and we had a continuously busy stand from Sunday through to Tuesday. Harrogate Christmas & Gift successfully attracted key UK retailers, particularly garden centres, and resisted bulking numbers up with businesses that are too small or exclusively online. We are huge supporters of bricks and mortar retailers. We thank the organisers for another excellent show and have every reason to book again for 2023.”
Woodlodge was one of a dozen new companies to participate this year and Andrew Mellowes, general manager of the company explained how delighted they were with the experience, commenting: “This was Woodlodge’s debut at Harrogate Christmas & Gift and the show couldn’t have gone any better for us. Snowlodge is our first foray into the festive category and was well received by the buyers who attended the show. The quality of visitors was excellent ranging from our usual garden centres to department stores and independent retailers In addition to securing first time Christmas orders with existing customers we also onboarded well over 100 new customers paving the way for a successful sales season. A great start to 2022.”
Gift and home living company Arora Design also attended the show for the first time and Debbie Waters of the company commented: “We had a fantastic show and all of our new collections were very well received. Harrogate Christmas & Gift delivered on all accounts – services, support staff, buyer attendance and orders taken. We were able to meet with quality buyers from all the channels we supply. We will be back next year, potentially with more space based on this year’s performance.”
Harrogate Christmas & Gift 2023 takes place from 15th to 18th January and priority booking for the show will open in March. All previous exhibitors will be contacted and offered the opportunity to rebook their space or request a new location, before space goes onto general sale.
Twenty-one-years after co-founding MorePeople with Guy Moreton, Peter Hunt has retired from the business. Guy and fellow shareholder Andy Fitzmaurice have purchased Peter’s shares and now begin the exciting next chapter for MorePeople...
Twenty-one-years after co-founding MorePeople with Guy Moreton (above left), Peter Hunt (above right) has retired from the business. Guy and fellow shareholder Andy Fitzmaurice have purchased Peter’s shares and now begin the exciting next chapter for MorePeople.
Peter retires after a lifetime in the industry. Starting his career at Armitage Bros in the petfood sector, he moved to GW Padley in the late 80s in a finance and accountancy role and then spent a number of years with Geest (now Bakkavor) in the 90s before meeting Guy in 1999 when Peter was a Divisional Finance Director of Redbridge Holdings (now Total Produce). Together, Guy and Peter founded MorePeople in 2000 and went on to make a difference to the lives of thousands of clients and candidates in the recruitment sector and laid the groundwork for the company we have today.
Guy summed up the past 21 years with Peter; “I could not have wished for a better business partner, he has worked tirelessly to help build MorePeople into a market leading recruiter within our sectors and was a constant source of support, advice and friendship.”
We wish him and his wife Luci (another fresh produce lifer) a very happy retirement.
2021 was a fantastic year for the recruitment industry and this rang true at MorePeople. We smashed our targets and got back on track with our growth plans – we added 9 new faces to the team in a range of roles.
Working across the food/horti/agri supply chains, we worked with over 350 different clients, all over the UK, on a variety of roles with salaries ranging from £20,000 to £200,000.
The departure of Peter allowed us to make some very positive structural changes in the business; Guy’s role becomes Executive Chairman and Andy is now the CEO.
Richard Hanwell – one of the 9 appointments from last year - picks up the role of Managing Director and, after 10 years with the business, Morten Andresen joins Luan Harrison in the role of Associate Director.
As newly appointed CEO, Andy Fitzmaurice states, “The new shareholding and company structure is future-proofed and fit to deliver for everyone who is involved in the business. Each quarter we get better; it’s an exciting journey to be on and there’s a real sense of pride and enthusiasm for what we do.”
Andy Fitzmaurice (above left) and Richard Hanwell (above right).
There are more hiring plans for 2022 – we have started the first week back with two new hires – and there are some very, very exciting plans to be confirmed soon, which will see us move to a new premises in Stamford. The new office will be a massive step towards realising our potential recruiting in sectors that we are knowledgeable and passionate about.
Another retirement this year came with our long-standing Chairman Michael Paske hanging up his boots. Michael became a Non-Exec Director of MorePeople in 2004 and has served not only as the company Chairman but also as a mentor to Guy, Peter and Andy in that time. Michael’s long career in the food and agriculture sectors has seen him as Vice-President at the NFU, founder of Exotic Farm Produce and a range of other directorships. We can’t thank Michael enough for his contribution to MorePeople.
The much-loved Garden Re-Leaf Day Sponsored Walk and Cycle Challenge is making its return this March 18th. Having last taken place in 2020 just before the pandemic took hold, the return of the ever-popular challenge will be music to the ears of those Garden Re-Leaf supporters that have made the event an essential part of their annual FUNdraising plans..
The much-loved Garden Re-Leaf Day Sponsored Walk and Cycle Challenge is making its return this March 18th.
Having last taken place in 2020 just before the pandemic took hold, the return of the ever-popular challenge will be music to the ears of those Garden Re-Leaf supporters that have made the event an essential part of their annual FUNdraising plans.
This year’s Garden Re-Leaf Day Sponsored Walk and Cycle Challenge will start and end at Dobbies World’s End store, near Aylesbury, with teams and individuals invited to join in the fun. The route will take participants on a stunning tour of the Chiltern Hills, a designated area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Walkers can choose to explore a 10- or 20-mile route, whilst cyclists will embark upon either a 25, 50, 75 or 100mile route (or as many times round the 25mile route as they can muster!) that could take in the 276m elevation that enables the Chilterns to provide stunning views across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.
A superb networking opportunity, the Garden Re-Leaf Walk and Cycle Challenge is popular with teams from across the supply chain who want to come together to enjoy some out-of-office team building; something we can all agree has been much missed during lockdown. The event also welcomes individuals from a wide range of suppliers and retailers, who quickly find their ‘team’ along the way. Previous participants have confirmed that the event has seen new friendships and new business relationships forged.
Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications: “The Sponsored Walk and Cycle Challenge have become synonymous with Garden Re-Leaf Day, and each year we welcome more and more people to the event. Not being able to run the in-person event in 2021 was so disappointing but our supporters did us proud with all their virtual and distanced events through the month of March – it really was heartening to see. However, we are very much looking forward to seeing everyone at the start line in just a few short weeks’ time, including - we hope - lots of new faces, as well as those long-term supporters that have helped make the Sponsored Walk & Cycle Challenge such a wonderful occasion.”
If you want to find out more about how to get involved in Greenfingers Garden Re-Leaf Day 2022, whether by putting on events in your garden centre, through sponsored solo activities or simply by donating - contact the Greenfingers office on 01494 674749 or email Linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk.
The Greenfingers charity, organiser of Garden Re-Leaf Day, is calling on every garden centre and industry supplier in the UK to take part in the annual FUNdraising event on Friday 18th March 2022, to help raise vital funds for the charity whilst also kickstarting the garden retailing season.
The Greenfingers charity, organiser of Garden Re-Leaf Day, is calling on every garden centre and industry supplier in the UK to take part in the annual FUNdraising event on Friday 18th March 2022, to help raise vital funds for the charity whilst also kickstarting the garden retailing season.
Since its inception in 2012, Garden Re-Leaf Day has been a key event within the garden retail calendar, and to-date has helped to raise over £730,000, all of which has gone towards helping the charity design and create over 60 magical gardens in children’s hospices throughout the country.
With less than two months to go before the national industry-wide event, participants are being urged to register their interest now to support this thriving charity day.
Whilst recent Garden Re-Leaf Days have been impacted by the pandemic, it is hoped that the easing of restrictions will encourage hundreds of garden retailers, suppliers and industry supporters from across the country to run a range of fundraising activities on both Garden Re-Leaf Day and throughout the weekend.
In 2021 - Garden Re-Leaf Day’s 10th anniversary - FUNdraising activities raised over £77,000 for the Greenfingers charity. Supporters from all corners of the garden retail sector came together (many virtually!) to undertake a wide range of tasks and challenges, including mammoth walking, cycling, running and even skipping challenges, to virtual quizzes, head shaving, product donations, free design consultancy and even mowing contests, showcasing that when it comes to Garden Re-Leaf Day all and any ideas are welcome!
How to get involved in Garden Re-Leaf Day 2022
Registration for the 2022 event is now live, and Greenfingers is also on the look-out for sponsors of the event. To find out more please contact Linda Petrons by emailing linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk
FUNdraising ideas for Garden Re-Leaf Day 2022
Here’s just a few ways you can get involved and help Greenfingers to continue creating magical gardens in children’s hospices across the nation:
Plantathons are perfect for generating some buzz instore whilst simultaneously generating more stock and donating to Greenfingers. Previous events have included 12- and 24-hour Plantathons.
Hold a virtual quiz, with a minimum donation for all entrants.
Raffles and tombolas are a great way of getting lots of people involved. Gather prizes from around your store, or ask friends and colleagues to donate prizes, before selling raffle tickets ahead of the grand unveiling of the lucky winner!
Cake sales and coffee mornings – are simple yet effective FUNdraisers.
An online auction is a great way to raise funds and involve your friends and colleagues
Team up with friends and colleagues to complete a virtual walk or cycle challenge. Set yourselves a target – 100 miles for example – and work together to achieve it. Walk around your local area, on a treadmill, whatever it takes! Keep in touch via Zoom to keep the group enthusiasm going!
For more FUNdraising ideas or to obtain a copy of the 2022 fundraising pack drop Linda a line - she’d love to hear from you.
Every week GTN receives and analyses epos data from a number of UK garden centres to produce the GTN Bestsellers charts...
Every week GTN receives and analyses epos data from a number of UK garden centres to produce the GTN Bestsellers charts and weekly bestsellers sales tips.
The full charts which provide useful insight into product sales peaks, new trends and new link sales opportunities are published in the weekly GTN Xtra newsletter.
As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2018 as well as 2019 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period.
Access is by subscription only. For £145.00 per year you and your team can have access to the most up-to-date gardening sales analysis that has already helped many UK garden centres increase their sales. To subscribe call 07973 504214, e-mail karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.
Highlights of the GTN Garden Products Bestsellers chart for last week are here
Highlights of the GTN Plants Bestsellers chart for last week are here
Highlights of the GTN Growing Media Bestsellers chart for last week are here
Highlights of the GTN Veg-2-Gro Bestsellers chart for last week are here
WARNING the GTN Bestsellers Charts seriously improve the business of our subscribers. Invest 15 minutes each week in improving your sales using the GTN Bestsellers charts and your turnover and customer satisfaction will improve too.
Get the GTN Bestsellers charts in full every week in the GTN Bestsellers newsletters for only £145.00.
GTN Bestsellers is the only industry source of weekly garden centre sales information, collating Epos data from centres with an aggregate turnover in excess of £100m.
Use the weekly Garden Products and Growing Media Top 50 sales volumes charts to plan your hotspot and other promotions and ensure you have the right products in stock to satisfy the needs of your customers.
See the new ranges of products from Hamac at Spring Fair, visit Hall 5 Stand: 5G40-H41...
Hamac are the Exclusive distributors in the UK and Ireland of Creation Group Animatronics, Hansa Creation Plush Display & Retail products, InLiteFi Lighting Figurines and Hamac Displays Fibreglass Products & Accessories.
Hansa Creation create the World’s Most Realistic Plush Animal Reproductions. Producing over 7,000 products with over 500 lines carefully selected for our UK stockist.
Creation Group Animatronics “where there is a story behind every product”. Creation Group are the world’s leading manufactures in Animated Figurines with over 55 years of experience in the industry so there’s no doubt they know how to create fascinating animated displays.
Hamac Displays is your one stop shop for Display, we have the widest range of realistic life-sized models, Animation and Vinyl Backdrops in Europe.
InLiteFi is our exciting new premium light brand with the unique combination of fibreglass, coloured aluminum and LED lights giving customers an incredible experience both day and night!
Hamac Garden has the Largest range of Water Features in Europe with stock available all Year! Bring your garden to life with our hand painted Garden Creations resin animal and garden gnomes.
Our showrooms in Northern Ireland have over 2000 products on display. A visit is highly recommended, or if you are unable to visit, you can take our new virtual showroom tour.
Hansa Creation create the World’s Most Realistic Plush Animal Reproductions. Producing over 7,000 products with over 500 lines carefully selected for our UK stockists.
Maggie’s Fundraising Manager, Gemma McKnight, said: “Partnerships such us ours with Hillier over the last three years allow us to keep supporting people at what is possibly the hardest time of their lives. We see people come into our centres with the weight of the world on their shoulders, but they leave looking lighter and as if they feel hopeful once more.
Woodlodge was one of a dozen new companies to participate this year and Andrew Mellowes, general manager of the company explained how delighted they were with the experience, commenting: “This was Woodlodge’s debut at Harrogate Christmas & Gift and the show couldn’t have gone any better for us. Snowlodge is our first foray into the festive category and was well received by the buyers who attended the show. The quality of visitors was excellent ranging from our usual garden centres to department stores and independent retailers In addition to securing first time Christmas orders with existing customers we also onboarded well over 100 new customers paving the way for a successful sales season. A great start to 2022.”
How to get involved in Garden Re-Leaf Day 2022
Hansa Creation create the World’s Most Realistic Plush Animal Reproductions. Producing over 7,000 products with over 500 lines carefully selected for our UK stockist.