The value of plants was the highlight of the HTA Conference held in Birmingham last week.

Research carried out by the HTA revealed that the retail value of plants and trees totalled £2.7 billion in 2022, with £2.2 billion spent on plants for outdoors and £500 million on houseplants.  Garden Centres accounted for 51% of all outdoor plant sales and 36% of all houseplant sales.

And that is only the start of the retail value of plants and trees as the “knock on” value is that between 40 and 49% of transactions containing fertilisers and chemicals, growing media or outdoor containers also contained a plant.

Plants are loved by gardeners and non-gardeners. 23 million people are using their gardens and outdoor spaces to grow plants and a third of people with no access to a garden or outdoor space bought a houseplant.

Defra value the total natural value of the UK’s plants as £11.6 billion per year, and that excludes £4.1 billion from agricultural crops.  81% of UK adults agree that gardens and green spaces benefit their state of mind.  Productivity in offices with natural greenery is 15% higher.

Looking to the future the HTA research tested price sensitivity of plants taking various factors into account related to peat free growing, sustainability, plant health, guarantees and environmental ratings. Unsurprisingly keen and experienced gardeners (Garden Proud and Gardening Elders) were the most likely to reduce their plant purchasing if prices rose significantly, however all other groups of gardeners were much less sensitive about prices of plants. 

The factors that are perceived as adding the most value to plants by consumers are a Lifetime or 5 Year guarantee and being pollinator friendly.

The value of plants also shone through in Dr Tim Leunig’s economic presentation. As well as having been economic adviser to Rishi Sunak for 2 years when he was chancellor, he told the conference delegates: “I'm also a gardener. I love gardening. I'll show you some pictures of my garden later, but only if you ask me questions. That's the deal. So you and I both know that economics and gardening are the same thing. We both care passionately about growth. If things don't grow, we're not happy. We also know that growth is sometimes not all it seems. There are plants that die in winter.”

In terms of opportunity for the sector he said: “The population is ageing; old people have more money. What exactly are we offering? Because traditionally older people have gardened just because they had more time. But what are the high value-added products that you can be offering people who are older, not necessarily infirm, but older? And that's, I think, a genuine entrepreneurial challenge for you guys.”

He added: “You should call for more house building. And you need houses, not flats. Brownfield first is the worst possible outcome for you guys. You don't want flats, you want houses. You want houses in the green belt with nice big gardens. What you want are people with gardens. So, when governments start talking about house building, you should, as an industry, start putting out press releases welcoming that. When the government commits to doubling the size of Cambridge, the HTA needs to put out a press release saying that this is a wonderful idea because more houses with gardens means more people to buy stuff.”

Dr Tim also urged closer working with universities to get the value of UK plants message across to government: “It's the HTA's job to find those research scientists to make sure that they apply to be on Defra's committees, because DEFRA has committees of often unpaid scientists who are there to stand up for the biosecurity that matters. So that's my very strong advice. Find the scientists, get them on side, get them on those committees. I can say that not as an economist. I can say that as someone who has been a civil servant, which is a more useful answer in this case.” Then proudly showing a photo of his own garden he said: “Roses. Who doesn't like roses? Well, I love roses and I have the scars and cuts to prove it. I counted them once. There were 525 blooms on that single rose. Now that is value. I don't know how much that rose cost. What, £30. Twenty years ago? Nothing is better value than planting a plant like that.”

British Garden Centres viual merchandising team were once again congratulated by all of the guest speakers and presenters on the quality of the set display for the conference.

See GTN Xtra’s gallery of photos from the conference and the Grower of the Year Awards dinner in the evening below.

Record volume sales increases of Zero In Home Flea Killers have followed the warmest early-Autumn weather on record and a surge in domestic infestations of cat and dog fleas.
 
Sales of Zero In Home Flea Killer are up by over 300% year on year and STVare encouraging retail partners to stay fully stocked, even as mild weather gives way to cold over the coming weeks.
 
“As the UK switches its central heating on, we will see an even stronger surge in flea infestations around the home,” says STV, warning that fleas spend 95% of their life cycle living off dogs and cats, and are typically found in bedding, furniture, and carpets around the home.
 
The full Zero In Home Flea Killer range is featured in STV’s new-season Autumn/Winter catalogue, available on request or for download at stvuk.com, with attractive pre-season deals and offers now available from leading national wholesalers, including Decco, Stax, and Home Hardware.

Home Flea Killers are part of a range of speciality insect control products available under the Zero In brand, including bed bug, carpet beetle, clothes moth, and woodworm treatments. Zero In is the UK’s fastest growing insect control brand, now generating over £20 million of retail sales a year.

We are delighted to announce that Corby + Fellas received an unexpected award at the Choice Marketing Gala dinner: Non-Retail Service Supplier of the year! This is a great achievement for the company, and we would like to thank Michelle de Lavis-Trafford, Terry Maywood, and Mike Cook. Alan McCammon and Grant Davis had a wonderful time seeing some of Corby + Fellas' long standing customers, along with others from the industry last week. They hope that everyone enjoyed it and the Gala Dinner as much as they did!

Corby + Fellas MD, Alan McCammon told GTN Xtra: “We're absolutely honoured to win such an award. Super proud to be associated with Choice and it is a credit to the team at Corby + Fellas and our progression over the years. I am told that we are effectively, recognised as an industry leader in garden centres and certainly with the nine Choice members that we have and another four or five lined up, I am absolutely privileged and honoured to represent Corby + Fellas and the team to win such a great award.

“Michelle, Terry, Mike, and the team at Choice run a brilliant conference. Everyone just really gets on well, multi-site businesses, smaller businesses, who are brilliant to work with. Choice Marketing has a nice family feel to it. I absolutely love collaborating with them.

Alan also spoke about the Corby + Fellas latest developments : “Out of the 85 customers we have and 64 garden centres, about 30 have the new Cucina Restaurant APP. It has been a real game changer for our customers restaurant operations, a massive increase in average sales, and it has been built with the help of the teams at Ruxley Manor, Gates, Polhill and Tong Garden Centres. As well as the new Restaurant systems, we have also developed enhanced delivery scheduling systems, a new customer service module, co-developed with Hayes Garden World, and our latest creation, the CRM plus system with the customer facing loyalty APP is an absolute revelation. Indeed, if you download the new Ruxley APP which went live today (from the Appstore or PlayStore) you will see the functionality that it offers. You can order event tickets and receive them within the APP. You can order food, order products from the website, have your receipts and loyalty points stored, both in-store and online, as well as customer behaviour driven, tailored offers and unique coupons”.

Picture Alan McCammon C+F MD proudly with the award.

The leading buying and marketing group has signed RocketGro as an Associate Supplier with immediate effect, connecting its garden centre members with the Somerset manufacturer’s game-changing growing media products.

Under the new partnership, Choice Marketing’s membership – which comprises 53 independent garden centres across the UK – will have direct access to RocketGro’s impressive 24-strong portfolio, benefitting from the purchasing power typically enjoyed by multiple retailers.

It is an exciting time for Choice’s member centres to partner with RocketGro, as the peat-free specialist has secured a host of exciting listings and endorsements since the start of 2023. Now exclusive compost supplier to the famous River Cottage, RocketGro debuted 11 new products at Glee 2023, including its brand-new liquid plant feed range, which has recently taken up residency in leading independent garden centres, Haskins and Klondyke.

Choice members will have the opportunity to stock these exciting new additions, alongside RocketGro’s existing organic, peat-free line up – including its top-performing River Cottage-endorsed collection of composts – with all the benefits that come with being part of a buying group, and take advantage of the comprehensive offer provided by RocketGro.

All products are chemical free, 100% organic approved, British grown, sourced and manufactured, and are the by-product of renewable energy production. Packaging is also 100% recyclable.

Choice Marketing CEO, Michelle de Lavis-Trafford said of the new partnership: “Choice Marketing is thrilled to welcome RocketGro as an Associate Supplier to the Group.  It’s a great range of peat-free products which perfectly complements our existing suppliers in this category. We look forward to working with Toby, Andy, and the RocketGro team in 2023/2024 and beyond. 

Managing Director, Toby Thomas said: “RocketGro is delighted to have become an Associate Supplier to the Choice Marketing Group. Getting to know Michelle and many of the members has been a pleasure. The feedback we received and the discussions Andy Abraham and I had with the members at the Choice Marketing Conference were fantastic. Working with such a successful group of garden centres fits perfectly with RocketGro's aim to focus on quality independent and family-run centres and garden centre groups. We look forward to providing the members with first-class service and support, and providing them with top quality peat-free, organic, sustainable compost and growing media products in 2023/2024.”

With pre-season orders going strong, RocketGro has stock ready to go and has capacity to meet an uptick in demand for 2024.

Dobbies has officially opened its largest ever store at The Junction Retail and Leisure Park.

The 110,000sq ft flagship store is Dobbies’ second venture in Northern Ireland and has created 120 new jobs, making it one of the largest employers within the Antrim and Newtownabbey borough.

As further commitment to driving and investing in local growth, a unique partnership has been forged with Musgrave NI, a leading retail and wholesale business, who will supply a specially curated range to Dobbies’  3,539 sq. ft food hall including Signature Tastes, Donnybrook Fair, Happy Pear and Frank & Honest Gourmet Coffee. 

Television presenter Pamela Ballantine officially opened the doors this morning joined by Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Councillor Rosie Kinnear; Dobbies CEO, David Robinson; Dobbies Antrim General Manager Ken Ferguson and Operations Manager Jenny Campbell; and The Junction landlord, Lotus Property’s MD Alastair Coulson.

Dobbies also welcomed school children and their families through the doors following the announcement of a partnership between Dobbies and local SEN school, Riverside.

This is the largest store in Dobbies’ UK portfolio with outdoor and indoor plant areas; gardening products; seasonal items; pet, gift and toy departments as well as cookshop and home décor; a food hall, a Little Seedlings children’s soft play area and new restaurant and coffee shop, serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.

Opening ahead of the Christmas season, the new store features Dobbies’ full festive product range with an extensive programme of seasonal events planned from November onwards including Santa’s Grotto, a Quiet Grotto experience for those with additional needs, Santa Paws, Santa’s Breakfast and more.

Dobbies CEO, David Robinson said: “I’d like to share a huge thank you to everyone who has been involved in this project. It’s been amazing to see so many colleagues from across the business supporting the local team, and we’re proud to have created so many jobs in the local area.

“I’d also like to thank everyone from the local community who has been so helpful and made us feel so welcome. We hope visitors to The Junction enjoy this fantastic Dobbies’ experience and we look forward to building on the strong relationships with our Junction neighbours and the wider Antrim community.”

Lotus Property Managing Director, Alastair Coulson: said: “Dobbies opening its doors onsite today is a real gamechanger for The Junction. We are very pleased to have a nationwide household name open its flagship store with us. I’m delighted to say occupancy levels are now at 92% – a testament to the investment and commitment the team here at The Junction have made to drive this destination forward.”

Speaking on the food hall partnership, Julie Cherry, Trading Director at Musgrave NI said: “An in-store food hall partnership is a first-of-its-kind concept for Musgrave and one we’re very excited about. Building long-term, stable relationships is one of our values, so we’re delighted to partner with Dobbies to reach more shoppers across NI with our quality convenience food offer.”

Celebrations for the opening will continue on Saturday 7 October, with the Cool FM Bus on site at The Junction with presenters Melissa Riddell and Curtis McCosh.

MorePeople has won Team of the Year 2023 at the FPC Fresh Awards held at the Marriott Grosvenor Hotel in London.

The Fresh Awards celebrate everyone in fresh produce and related sectors. Our CEO Andrew Fitzmaurice and Marketing & Communications Manager Natalie Smith were in attendance alongside eight other members of the MorePeople team representing our various business functions.

The Judges commented: "The team's dedication to building industry relationships and fostering a supportive work environment so everyone can succeed is truly deserving of this award."

Andrew Fitzmaurice, CEO, said: "To win the Fresh Awards Team of the Year is an incredible feeling. It’s an even sweeter feeling knowing that it’s an award chosen by a panel of industry experts.

We’re rightly proud of our team and the massive strides forward we have made over the past year, but, given the quality of the entrants in this category, we really weren’t expecting to win (our reactions and preparedness when the announcement was made on the night said it all).

We couldn’t win these awards without a great team who are all committed to what they do. Thanks to every single one of my team.”

Richard Hanwell, Managing Director, continued: "It’s amazing for the team as they deserve all the accolades. Culture is born out of teamwork and collaboration and they have demonstrated this endlessly throughout the last 12 months and beyond. It’s even more rewarding given that it comes from the industry that we strive so hard to support."

On behalf of MorePeople we'd like to congratulate all of the other nominees and thank the FPC for a great night.

The AMES Companies is about to see its multi-million-pound investment at its Pollington site in East Yorkshire come to fruition as its updated 60,000sq ft warehouse welcomes the first delivery of 2024 stock.

As part of a £3million investment plan at Pollington, the final racking and shelving is being put in place in the repurposed and fully-refurbished paving production hangar and the onsite team remains busy behind the scenes to ensure a smooth transition. With multiple brands now housed under one roof – including Kelkay, Woodshaw, and the new-for-2024 AMES Tools brand – as well as a new operations head leading the way, following the appointment of David Wright, the sales and operations teams are currently completing 2024 forecasts to ensure that retailers have exactly what they need when they need it most. To support this, the AMES Companies’ newest warehouse, alongside its existing facilities, will operate a continual fill process. This means multiple benefits for retail customers, including near 100% stock availability throughout the year ahead.

Optimum stock holding is just the beginning. Investment in the Pollington site will also offer retailers the opportunity for consolidated deliveries and cross-category ordering. And, if that’s not enough, they can also access true UK market-firsts through the AMES’ associated global manufacturing expertise and the exciting launch of the brand-new AMES Tool brand, as well as access to heritage brands with a proven track record for driving sales.

Paul North, Managing Director at the AMES Companies, said: “We’re on the brink of big things and the incoming stock is just the beginning. From our new warehouse and exciting diversification into new product categories, to new manufacturing and logistic partnerships, we’re continually investing into the vision we have for the AMES Companies and its UK-brand portfolio. There is no question that season 24 is looking good, and we cannot wait to have our customers join us on this journey.”

Find out more

Find out more about the AMES Companies by visiting www.ames-uk.com/. Alternatively, visit the individual brand websites to see the latest news and to access the 2024 catalogues:

www.ames-tools.co.uk

www.lahacienda.co.uk

www.apta.co.uk

www.kelkay.com

www.easyfountain.co.uk

The Bransford Webbs Plant Company are developing a sustainable pathway to a peat free future. During 2023 over 50% of our range has been trialed successfully in peat free compost, and a quarter of a million liners from our propagation unit were grown in peat free. 

The aim throughout the trialing process is to achieve the same great quality our customers expect from us, whilst using a peat free substrate that is environmentally friendly, responsibly sourced and available in commercial volumes.

BWPC have already gained valuable experience and knowledge in this area, having grown a proportion of plants in peat free for the last 20 years. Looking ahead to 2024, we aim to increase the size and depth of our commercial trials with the aim of becoming completely peat free in a realistic timescale that allows us to continue to supply excellent plants to garden centres across the UK.

“Bransford Webbs are committed to large scale trials - trialing three different mixes. Whilst trials overall have been successful, we are aware of the challenges we face with watering, feed issues and timing, and aim to manage the difference this presents not the problems”, commented Karl O’Neill, Technical Production Director. 

“We workclosely with our compost suppliers who readily acknowledge the issues we face with peat free composts. Through training with both staff and suppliers, we are working to understand the difference in the compost, with grower observation as important as scientific monitoring”.

The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has launched a new two-part report, 'The Value of Plants' at Horticulture, The Conference. The new reports 'From Nursery to Nature' and ‘Delivering the Environmental Improvement Plan through the Value of Plants' set out the evidence and industry asks to secure this value.

From championing environmental preservation to boosting economic prosperity and enhancing individual wellbeing, the industry's impact is far-reaching, aligning seamlessly with the Government's ambitious environmental objectives in the Environmental Improvement Plan 2023 (EIP23). The delivery of no less than 7 of the 10 aims of the EIP 23 is dependent on a thriving UK horticulture sector.

James Barnes, HTA Chairman, commented:

“Environmental Horticulture is one of the few sectors so well positioned to lean into the impacts of climate change and to genuinely deliver green growth. Our ability to deliver on this green agenda is based on fact. The findings of the HTA’s new reports are especially pertinent with the current economic and regulatory context. Our research shows that inward investment from horticulture businesses to improve and promote plants' biosecurity, quality and environmental impact will add significant value to consumers and sustain the volumes of plants and trees supplied into our natural environment. However, we find that increased costs specific to horticulture, such as managing the transition to peat-free production, rising input and seasonal labour costs, and the costs of new environmental regulation or cross-border trade, risk our industry's ability to deliver this value.”

“In economic terms, UK growers produce plants and trees worth £1.54 billion per year at farm-gate prices, employing over 20,000 people. Consumers spend nearly £3 billion per year on plants and trees, with about half spent in the UK’s garden centres, which receive about 200 million visits annually. By contrast, the total attendance at the UK’s Premier League football matches for the 2022-23 season was 15 million. Once supplied into nature, the plants and trees produced by environmental horticulture add significantly to the value of the UK’s assets, assessed at £130 billion by the Office of National Statistics.”

Laura Jeffery, HTA Market Research Manager on the Value of Plants from Nursery to Nature report:

"I would recommend everyone working in environmental horticulture reads this report as, along with our other research and monthly market updates, it gives a real insight into the economic, environmental and social value of our sector. In producing this report, combining one of the most comprehensive literature reviews ever conducted with research into consumers’ plant purchasing behaviours, we have identified that whilst consumers are price-sensitive amidst the cost-of-living crisis, they also value 'value-added' traits like plant health, plant guarantees, and environmental impact. This brings a huge opportunity for our member businesses to communicate these qualities.

“The report also underscores the pivotal role of plants in environmental conservation, highlights the significant economic impact of the horticultural industry, and recognises the therapeutic benefits of gardening on mental health. Additionally, it emphasises the value of green spaces in improving overall wellbeing and advocates for sustainable horticultural practices."

David Lydiat, HTA Public Affairs and Policy Manager commented on sector delivery on the report on the Environmental Improvement Plan:

"The answer to many of the UK’s environmental, economic and health challenges is horticulture and specifically in the value of plants. This report highlights the critical significance of environmental horticulture across various aspects of our lives.

“Crucially, it provides decision makers in Westminster, Holyrood, the Senedd and Stormont with practical policy solutions to utilise flora and the UK’s gardening industry to achieve legally binding environmental objectives and many of the aims of the Environmental Improvement Plan. Our industry wants to work closely with political stakeholders and governmental departments to deliver in terms of biodiversity, rural jobs, reducing urban air pollution, and much more.

“Often underestimated or sidelined, this report showcases the enormous economic, environmental, and social value of plants. It is time that Environmental Horticulture is truly recognised and its potential realised.

“As well as the considerable benefits for our health and wellbeing, plants support a vast supply chain, from garden tools to parks and gardens that draw tourists from all corners of the globe. Our sector works to maximise the value of UK plants and trees and supply them to gardens and communities.

“As we approach the next general election, we urge all Political Parties to fully consider, utilise and support Environmental Horticulture in their manifestos and policies.”

The Horticultural Trades Association has announced the winners of the 2023 Grower of the Year Awards. 

The Awards, now in their second year, were announced at the HTA’s annual conference, Horticulture, The Conference, which took place at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham on Thursday 5 October.  

A total of 9 awards were presented across 5 categories, including overall winners and highly commended. Allensmore Nurseries was named Best Finished Plants Grower, Greenwood Plants won the Peat Free Grower award, while Majestic Trees won Inspirational Business. Several individual industry professionals were also recognised, with Kyle Ross of Wyevale Nurseries winning Young Grower under 35 and Maria Bengtsson from Majestic Trees winning Best Staff Member.  

Martin Simmons, Horticulture Support Manager at the HTA, said: “We were delighted by the response to this year’s Grower of the Year Awards and the standard of entries was exceptionally high. Our thanks to the judges, Alan Down, Tim Briercliffe, Martin Cowell and Phil Clayton, who found it quite challenging to separate out the winners, with only one or two points in each category setting them apart. 

The Grower of the Year Awards demonstrate the high calibre of UK nurseries who lead the way in quality, levels of service, innovation and peat-free production and it is fantastic to be able to recognise young and upcoming talent that will ensure our world-class industry can thrive in the future” 

The full list of award winners and highly commended entrants is as follows:  

Young Grower under 35 

Winner: Kyle Ross, Wyevale Nurseries   

Highly commended: Mollie Higginson, New Leaf Plants 

Finished Plant Grower 

Winner: Allensmore Nurseries   

Highly Commended: Bransford Webb Plant Company  

Peat Free Grower  

Winner: Greenwood Plants  

Highly Commended: Majestic Trees  

Inspirational Business 

Winner: Majestic Trees  

Staff Member  

Winner: Maria Bengtsson, Majestic Trees   

Highly commended: Karen Jenkins, Bransford Webb Plant Company  

Production Manager at Wyevale Nurseries Kyle Ross has been presented with the Young Grower (under 35) of the Year Award at this year’s HTA Conference.

Kyle, who is also an ‘Ambassador for Horticulture’, a title given to him at the HTA-backed 2022 Four Oaks Trade Show, says he is delighted by his award.

A key member of the Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA), Kyle adds: “I was completely overwhelmed and honoured to be presented with this award, in such a strong category. I’m delighted to be representing the under 35s. It was so completely unexpected, but it’s truly wonderful to receive such fantastic industry recognition. I would like to thank all my team and everyone at Wyevale Nurseries, and at the YPHA, for all their continued support. Furthermore, I’d like to add it was brilliant to be able to accept an award alongside my friend and YPHA committee member and founder, Mollie Higginson.”

Kyle is described by his colleagues at Wyevale Nurseries as a true professional, who is inspiring, supportive, committed to change and always great fun.

Wyevale Nurseries’ Head of Business Support, Carol Dickinson says: “This is fabulous news! We’re delighted for Kyle and very proud. Congratulations to him on this thoroughly well-deserved award.

“He is truly inspirational and an amazing asset to our business. His work ethic is outstanding and his enthusiasm for plant health and biosecurity is infectious. Kyle is a wonderful representative for Wyevale Nurseries and our industry, as well as our sector’s Plant Health, and for young people in horticulture too.”

Kyle has a BSc in Horticulture from Pershore College and is one of Wyevale Nurseries’ young ‘homegrown’ managers, having successfully completed its management training scheme.

He started his career at Wyevale Nurseries on its Management Trainee Programme in 2016, which is a two-year course. Eighteen months in, he was doing so well he carved out a vital role in the team as Plant Health Coordinator.

In 2018, he accepted the position as Production Manager for the container production site and has been in that role for more than four years. He manages four internal departments – crop protection, growing, stock control and new product development.

As well as his role at Wyevale Nurseries, he’s a proactive committee member for the YPHA, which he joined in 2021 and is now the organisation’s Technical Officer & Project Manager.

It’s a great passion of Kyle’s, as it helps likeminded young horticulturalists to share thoughts and ideas. It provides a welcoming community and encourages youth into the sector.

He has received recognition in the trade media for being one of the horticultural industry’s new generation of young, inspirational and influential plantspeople.

In July this year, he was named by readers of the trade publication HortWeek as being in the top 100 of most influential people in horticulture, polling in at number 10.

In his seven years with Wyevale Nurseries so far, Kyle has been the driving force behind ensuring the business was one of the first hardy nursery growers in the UK to achieve a Plant Healthy certified status.

He is a huge champion of plant health, not only at Wyevale Nurseries, but across the industry and is happy to talk to organisations and other nurseries about it.

Kyle was also a member of the steering group, which introduced the Defra-endorsed Plant Health Alliance’s Plant Healthy Certification scheme.

To add to all this, Kyle has helped bring to market several new products in the Wyevale Nurseries’ range, which have gone on to be very successful sellers including Dryopteris Jurassic Gold and Euonymus White Spire.

Wyevale Nurseries’ product selection is envied across the industry and the talented team regularly introduces new, award-winning plant varieties.

Its main business is to supply garden centres, landscape contractors, local authorities, foresters and landowners with a comprehensive array of trees, shrubs, hedging, herbaceous and specimen plants.

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

Perrywood Garden Centres, located in Tiptree, Essex, and Sudbury, Suffolk, has launched a new loyalty programme called ‘Perrywood Bloom’. In just one month 10,000 customers have already signed up. It offers their most loyal customers exclusive rewards and benefits including best in-store offers, a birthday treat, member events and behind the scenes information. They will also receive every tenth hot drink free when they visit the Coffee Shops, Restaurant or Greenhouse Café. 

Bloom members were the first to find out when Perrywood was opening their award-winning Christmas Shops. This featured a behind-the-scenes glimpse of their showstopping displays and the unveiling of the 2023 theme. This year Perrywood has brought back the ‘Step Back in Time’ theme for a second year, after rave reviews in 2022. It’s full of new inspiration and nostalgia.

Hannah, Communications & HR Director comments, “It’s great to be able offer our loyal customers something special and we’ve had a positive reaction. It’s another way for us to create a unique shopping experience – both for customers who have been shopping with us for decades, and for those who have only recently discovered our award-winning garden centres.

“Bloom members will receive advice and offers based on the plants and products they have bought to help them grow plants successfully. What’s more, every time they shop, members will be entered into a monthly prize draw to win the value of their shop in Perrywood gift vouchers.”

Customers should download the Perrywood Bloom app before they next visit. It’s a free app in the Apple app store or Android Google Play library. For more information visit www.perrywood.co.uk/bloom.

For those without a smartphone, a paper card alternative can be issued next time you visit.

Perrywood Tiptree was named North Thames Destination Garden Centre of the Year for the 7th time running in 2023 (3rd in the Garden Centre Associations Top 100 League Table).

Perrywood Sudbury was named North Thames Garden Centre of the Year for the 2nd time running in 2023.

Raymond Evison Clematis has announced that Fenchurch Advisory Partners is once again sponsoring the Chelsea Flower Show Exhibit at the 2024 show.

Raymond Evison says: “We are extremely grateful to Fenchurch Advisory Partners for sponsoring our 2024 Chelsea Flower Show exhibit, as the 2024 show will be part of our celebrations, for next year, as we will be celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the formation of The Guernsey Clematis Nursery Ltd., now a worldwide supplier of high-quality young clematis plants.

Therefore the 2024 Show will be a milestone in the history of our companies, we will be launching two new clematis cultivars that have been bred in Guernsey as part of the new Raymond J. Evison Ltd., breeding programme, that was started in 2014.

Clematis Lindsay™ EviGsy152(PBR), is named after Mrs Lindsay Reid who is retiring as a Director of both The Guernsey Clematis Nursery Ltd., and Raymond J. Evison Ltd. Her clematis is a stunning deep blue which has a very long flowering period.
The second new cultivar, Clematis Guernsey Flute™ EviGsy153(PBR) is an extraordinary long flowering, clear white hybrid, with chocolate-coloured anthers.”

Raymond goes on to say “Without the generous sponsorship from Fenchurch Advisory Partners it would not be possible to stage such a large and comprehensive exhibit of our clematis cultivars.“

Richard Locke, the Vice Chairman of Fenchurch Advisory Partners says, “We are delighted to be sponsoring Raymond Evison Clematis again in 2024. Raymond and the whole firm have our best wishes for another successful Chelsea Flower Show."

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas for British Garden Centres. With festive fun brewing in the air, stores started to get excited for the most magical time of the year by hosting a number of successful VIP events across the UK last month.

Over 1,000 people, including local press, social media figures and Family Card members have joined the British Garden Centres for the highly anticipated Christmas launch events, which have served as the perfect prelude to the festive season, given visitors a sneak peek into the Christmas department’s stunning decorations and an array of seasonal delights.

Events were held across September at the Brigg, Thatcham, Bridgnorth, Braintree, Tarporley, Tring, Wolseley Bridge, Enfield and Arcadia stores which are part of the UK’s largest family-owned garden centre group.

The annual events are a must in the British Garden Centres calendar and showcase the enchanting Christmas offerings available at each store and give customers a look at all the goodies they can get their hands on before anyone else. It's a chance for people to explore the festive wonderland that these garden centres have transformed into, meet festive characters and sample some tasty yuletide treats in the restaurant.

From statuesque Christmas trees bedecked in twinkling lights to whimsical displays featuring Santa's reindeer and singing yetis, there was no shortage of Instagram-worthy moments for the guests to document and spread the word that Christmas has truly arrived.

Amy Stubbs, Project and Development Manager at British Garden Centres said: “We were delighted with the impressive turnout from Family Card members, influencers and media to our launch events. At each store, the Christmas launch events are not just about shopping but about coming together as a community and spreading the festive cheer.

“Behind those magical Christmas decorations lies a creative process that requires a mix of artistry and flair. Each store merchandising team works tirelessly to curate displays that will transport visitors into a winter wonderland. From elegant and traditional to bold and contemporary, there is a Christmas theme to suit every taste.”

British Garden Centres Family Card also offers special discounts, promotions, and exclusive offerings, making your festive shopping spree even merrier.  Visitors can sign up for a card in-store and get ready to check off everything on their Christmas shopping list.

The team are now looking forward to the next VIP event at Hatton Garden Centre at the beginning of November and launching its festive experiences in stores that include Grottos and Breakfast with Santa himself (selected centres, check the website www.britishgardencentres.com  for details).

Wildlife specialist brand CJ Wildlife has announced its partnership with  Hillier Garden Centres, one of the leading names in growing and horticultural retail.

Visitors to Hillier Garden Centres are now able to browse and buy CJ Wildlife’s wide range of habitats, feeders and specialist food in-store, with product lines being rolled out across all 22 centres in the coming weeks.

In what is the wildlife company’s first large-scale retail partnership, the garden centre giant will stock everything from nest boxes and bird feeders to insect hotels and bat boxes.

Shelves will boast some of CJ Wildlife’s most popular products, including the WoodStone® collection and stylish National Trust Vierno ceramics, making it even easier for its customers to lend a helping hand to nature.

Phil Kent, Head of UK Sales (B2B) at CJ Wildlife, commented: “We are delighted that Hillier Garden Centres has become an official CJ Wildlife retail partner. Our mission is to inspire consumers to care for the wildlife outside their own back door, and with Hillier’s extensive network of centres we hope that it will be even easier for people to do just that.”

With popular sites at locations including Banbury, Bath, Chichester, Winchester and Syon Park, family-run Hillier Garden Centres has recently expanded its impressive portfolio with the acquisition of centres in Aldermaston, Weyhill, and Hampton-in-Arden bringing the total centres in the group to 22 and expanding its customer base wider across the country.

Rory Parkes, Buyer at Hillier Garden Centres, added: “CJ Wildlife offers nature-lovers a wide variety of solutions to help them attract more wildlife to their outdoor space and care for all kinds of creatures. We’re thrilled to be partnering with such a passionate brand and are certain its products will be hugely popular with our customers.”

To find your local Hillier Garden Centre, visit www.hillier.co.uk, and browse CJ Wildlife’s product ranges at www.birdfood.co.uk.

Recent research has revealed that a significant number of gardeners believe that artificial grass should be prohibited, whilst demand for it has decreased by 50% in just two years. With many homeowners being blindsided by claims of low maintenance, no watering and looking aesthetically green all year round,

Johnson's Lawn Seed, the oldest lawn seed brand in the UK, is encouraging retailers to communicate with disillusioned customers to recommend natural grass as a viable alternative and a tangible contribution to environmental preservation.

WHY THE BACKLASH?

Why the backlash against synthetic turf?

Not so maintenance-free

You could say it’s misjudged convenience in the garden with artificial grass, with many not realising that it’s not maintenance-free and has to be brushed, hoovered and cleaned with stain removers, just like its indoor carpet counterpart, especially if you own canine friends that like to do their business outside.

Too hot to handle

We may have had a temperamental year of weather but excessive temperatures like the unprecedented summer of 2022 mean that plastic lawns can get so hot that it burns the feet of anyone using the lawn, including children, pets and wildlife. In comparison, on a sunny day, real lawns act as a natural coolant by evaporating moisture, bringing down the temperature in its vicinity. This cooling effect not only provides relief for us and those who enjoy a real lawn but also helps to reduce the urban heat island effect in cities, making our neighbourhoods more comfortable during warm spells.

Environmentally harmful

And the biggest environmental concerns are that artificial lawns are made from non-biodegradable materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene and nylon, an energy-hungry manufacturing process and at the end of life will degrade and shed microplastics into the soil and the oceans. Most artificial grass is made up of a mixture of different plastics making it extremely difficult to recycle too.

The plastic grass carpet does not support wildlife and instead damages biodiversity by

covering the soil, making it difficult for creatures like worms to thrive. This, in turn, diminishes the number of birds as they have less access to food and other animals that

visit the garden and also face sustenance challenges.

Increases localised flooding

Contrary to its reputation as a water-saving alternative, the non-permeable nature of fake grass deprives the soil of essential nutrients and obstructs natural drainage systems. This impediment exacerbates flooding problems and disrupts the delicate balance of ecosystems. In a world where water scarcity is becoming a growing concern, the benefits of a natural lawn are truly invaluable, conserve water by reducing runoff and enhancing the absorption of rainwater into the ground.

THE SOLUTION

Johnsons Lawn Seed is asking garden retailers to set a positive example by educating customers on the benefits of natural grass and how to maintain a healthy lawn throughout the year. Selecting the appropriate type of turf is crucial to ensure the durability and sustainability of your lawn.

By choosing resilient grass varieties that are suitable for your local climate, you can reduce the need for frequent maintenance. These types of grass are often more resistant to pests, diseases, drought, and extreme weather conditions, making them easier to care for and better for the environment in the long term.

RETAILERS GO NATURALLY GREEN….

Johnsons offers an extensive lawn seed portfolio, carefully curated and researched over many years to offer a lawn seed solution for every garden and every gardener’s needs.

Highlights and bestsellers include Tuffgrass which is ideal for new lawns, overseeding, patching, and play areas - even for dog owners with its dog patch resistance.

Quick Lawn with Accelerator‘s specially coated seed germinates quickly and requires only a third of the water typically needed for lawn establishment whilst Shady Place Lawn Seed, will debunk the myth that customers with artificial lawns think grass won't grow in shaded areas. Luxury Lawn blends traditional grasses and is highly resistant to drought thanks to its thick growth that prevents unsightly weeds from taking root.

Johnson's Lawn Seed will make the sales for you with its scannable QR codes on its grass seed boxes to help customers choose the perfect seed for their lawn. The codes provide guidance on selecting the right seed as well as valuable tips for preparing and sowing the grass.

Find out more

To find out more about stocking Johnsons Lawn Seed please contact your local sales representative or visit the website http://www.johnsonslawnseed.com/product-range.aspx

Dobbies is spreading Christmas joy to local schools and nursery groups across the country with real tree donations as part of its Not Your Average Community campaign, in partnership with sustainable real tree grower, Needlefresh.

Set to twinkle corridors and delight children with yuletide cheer, Dobbies will be donating over 300 Nordmann Fir Christmas trees to local schools and nurseries near its 77 stores to create a centrepiece for celebrations and is now welcoming nominations.

All of Dobbies’ Christmas trees are sustainably grown in environmentally managed fields across Scotland where the growing team do everything from planting, pruning and harvesting by hand to reduce the impact on surrounding environment, wildlife and plants.

Dobbies’ CSR and Community Communications Executive, Chloë Bell, has been delivering Dobbies’ Not Your Average Community campaign for two years and is excited announce this year’s focus. She said: “Community is at the core of Christmas at Dobbies and we love sharing the festive joy with those around us. We want to help create Christmas magic in local schools and nurseries across the country and hope that through the tree donations with Needlefresh, kids can come together, decorate the tree and make memories.”

Needlefresh Managing Director, George Hood, added: “Our sustainable Nordmann Fir Christmas trees make a wonderful centrepiece to festive celebrations as they are bushy and full, and good needle retention. We are excited to see how local schools and nurseries bring this classic tree to life through their decorations and we are delighted to be partnering with Dobbies on delivering a magical moment for children across the country.”

Nominations are now open. Entries close on Wednesday 25 October and successful applicants will be contacted in November to arrange a date to collect a Nordmann Fir tree from their local store.

For more information about how to get involved or make a nomination, visit Not your average community | Dobbies Garden Centres

A ‘Kindness Pot' set up by a Bradford-based garden centre group has supported 22 local groups and donated over £1,000 in the last six months.

The Yorkshire Garden Centres (YGC) initiative was established to support local causes nominated by team members at the group's four sites at Tong, Tingley, Otley and Bingley.

Norristhorpe Infant and Junior School benefitted from support from the ‘Kindness Pot' after Tong Garden Centre's Gardening & Food Hall Buying Assistant, Clare Stockton, nominated her son's school for help with a gardening project.

Funds were also donated to Cavernoma Alliance UK following Group Play Manager Caroline Ellis's request after she was diagnosed with the rare disease.

The 'Kindness Pot' also gifted a hamper to Thornes Sharks Netball Club, which helped them to raise £300 towards their £3000 plus annual running costs. Tingley Garden Garden Centre's Giftware and Seasonal Manager, Lisa Passant, nominated the team as the sport and camaraderie benefit her health and wellbeing.

Other local ‘Kindness Pot' beneficiaries include SNAPS Yorkshire, which works with disabled young people and their parents; MIND Leeds and Bradford; Meanwood Valley Urban Farm and Christians Against Poverty.

"With our roots in Yorkshire, we believe in giving back, be that to our group-wide charity of the year or local causes that matter to our growing team of almost 500 people across our four sites. We want to support the causes that mean something to our team and anyone can make a Kindness Pot request for support. In fact, we've already supported over 50 community initiatives since it was introduced and this has really reinforced our sense of community," said Neil Barwise-Carr, Head of People and Culture.

This year's Charity of the Year is Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Yorkshire Garden Centres has pledged to raise £19,000 through a series of events, including a team virtual sponsored walk, a 12k mud run, a skydive, raffles, bake-off competitions and collections. To contribute to Yorkshire Garden Centres' fundraising, please visithttps://bit.ly/YGCCharity.

Since Tong Garden Centre was acquired in 2015, the team and supporters have raised over £62,500 for charity. Previous beneficiaries of the Charity of the Year initiative include Forget Me Not Children's Hospice, Luke's Lads, Butterflies Mental Health, The Cellar Trust, Candlelighters and National Literacy Trust. In addition, the team has supported hundreds of smaller charities in the local community.

The Pot Place Garden Centre leaves for Ukraine again next Tuesday 10th October. 

"This time we have an ambulance, a 4x4 and 3 paramedic motorcycles. Thanks to our fundraisers and donations from local organisations we’ll also be carrying medical equipment that will be of use to those close to the frontline," said Paul.

"We’re still taking donations through our Just Giving page as our efforts will continue when we return https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/the-pot-place-ambulances-for-ukraine."

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.

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.

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Speaking at ‘Horticulture, The Conference 2023’, HTA Chief Executive, Fran Barnes, made a strong call to action to politicians and policy-makers to deliver supportive measures or risk the sector that will deliver on net-zero.

The speech, delivered in Birmingham to an audience of HTA members, politicians and stakeholders, reflected on the substantive challenges faced by many businesses over the last year. However, environmental horticulture is an unparalleled industry in its ability to deliver economically, environmentally, and socially, and its strengths, such as innovation and resilience, must be celebrated. 

Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the Horticultural Trades Association, said:

“Horticulture matters.  It’s important to the economy; it delivers for the environment, and, as we’ve seen only too recently, it’s vital for our health and wellbeing. We know that many sectors claim to be special, to deliver for the country in a unique way.  But there are very few – if any – which can match the economic numbers with the environmental benefits and the social value of environmental horticulture.

“We deliver £28 billion to the British economy.  We support 674 thousand jobs, and we give 6 billion pounds in tax revenues. But moving from these hard facts, imagine a world with no horticulture. What a dismal place it would be – dismal to look at, dismal to live in and dismal for the environment.

“But this is a vibrant industry.  And it is resilient.  You have had to be this year – a year which delivered the wettest March in 30 years, the warmest June since records began and a July where the sun barely shone.  Combined with the pressures on energy costs, access to a workforce;

record reductions in peat use but perplexing regulation which threatens success; delayed border changes with none of the detail you need to plan; and biosecurity threats. It’s been a tough year.

“But I’ve visited so many members in my first nine months at the HTA that I’m left in no doubt that this industry is innovative and passionate about finding solutions. 

“I’ve seen cutting edge automation, further use of robotics, the science behind developing new growing media… All this is happening in our family horticultural businesses and in our global firms. 

“These businesses – your businesses - cannot - and should not - be taken for granted.  Plants don’t just appear on our shelves and in our gardens.  The horticulture that we see every day – on city streets, in our gardens and in our parks has been grown, nurtured and developed by you - experts.”

Addressing the politicians and policy-makers in the room, Fran made a direct plea:

“We need you to recognise the value of environmental horticulture in delivering across policy areas and create a regulatory environment that really does deliver green ambitions and green growth.  Take, for example, extended producer responsibility. It has taken months to get the details and clarity on how this is going to work in practice for horticultural businesses. Let’s not go through that again in another policy area.

“We ask you to deliver effective and biosecure trade and borders which leads to seamless trade, not additional costs – the three-month delay to border changes is not enough time to prepare – we need the April date to either be postponed or a real soft launch with full and urgent action on detail and easements for SMEs

“We implore you to help the industry on its journey to peat-free – don’t create unachievable timelines but instead work with the industry to support a successful transition.

“We urge you to give certainty on the cost of doing business – like business rates.  We need businesses in all four UK nations to be supported to invest… rather than being hit by dramatic rate changes. 

“And we need you to remember and champion our sector as part of the solution to the environmental challenges we’re all facing.

“We know we have the support of the British public.  And we thank them for that.  There are 200 million visits to UK garden centres a year. 30 million gardeners. We do not need to convince them of our sector’s value.”

‘Horticulture, The Conference 2023' is the biggest conference of its kind for the sector. Hosted by Michael Perry, speakers will include Environment Minister Rt Hon Mark Spencer MP and Shadow Environment Minister Daniel Zeichner MP. There is a full agenda of panels, keynote speeches and networking opportunities. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the horticultural sector's instrumental role in shaping a sustainable and greener future.

Spear and Jackson has announced a partnership with leading influencer, BBC Gardener’s World Presenter, and best-selling author, Rekha Mistry.

A passionate, Horticulturalist and Kitchen Gardener, Rekha’s personal journey began on her allotment 13 years ago. After reaching the quarter final of the BBC’s Big Allotment Challenge in 2015 Rekha went on to achieve an RHS Diploma in Horticulture. Then in 2019 she began her gardening blog, “Rekha’s Garden and Kitchen” giving an insight into the highs and lows of life on the allotment and sharing Gardening and cooking tips and recipes. Rekha now has a fantastic following of over 108,000 equally passionate followers, growers and cooks on her Instagram channel @rekha.garden.kitchen.

In addition to being a key influencer and best-selling author, Rekha has also written for Kitchen Garden Magazine, Grow Your Own, House Beautiful, The Simple Things, RHS The Garden Magazine, BBC Good Food and BBC Countryfile. In 2020 she started to write a regular column, ‘Fresh from The Plot’ in BBC Gardeners’ World magazine and in 2022 she moved in front of the camera to become a regular presenter of the ever-popular BBC Gardeners’ World TV show.

The team at Spear and Jackson is excited to be working closely with Rekha as their new Brand Ambassador. She will be creating a monthly series of Blogs and Reels aimed at amateur growers and gardeners, providing expert hints and tips on growing food sustainably. She will also be sharing mouth-watering recipes using her homegrown seasonal produce. Of course, Rekha will be reviewing and recommending the best Spear & Jackson Garden hand tools for the job and showing how to use them on the vegetable plot and in the garden!

Spear and Jackson Managing Director, Ian Archer, says “We are delighted to be working with Rekha as our Brand Ambassador, her expertise and enthusiasm for taking her home grown produce from‘Plot to Plate’ is evident, and we share her ethical approach to growing sustainably. We look forward to working with Rekha on engaging content for our collective Social Media audiences.

Rekha said “I am very excited to be partnering with such a well-known long-standing and trusted brand as Spear and Jackson. I can’t wait to get involved with the S&J team and find out more about what goes on behind the scenes, as well as sharing my ideas and inspiring as many growing enthusiasts and gardeners as possible through this new partnership.”

Gardeners at Keukenhof have planted the first flower bulbs, marking the beginning of preparations for Keukenhof's 75th anniversary in 2024.

Over the next three months, a staggering 7 million flower bulbs will be planted, one by one, by hand. The flower exhibition will open its gates to the public on March 21, 2024.

This 75th anniversary is no small feat and Keukenhof is grateful and proud of everyone who has contributed to its development. It all started in 1949 as an initiative by ten flower bulb growers who wanted to showcase the flower bulb trade. Keukenhof opened its doors for the first time in 1950 and since then has become a global phenomenon. Our exhibitors consist of one hundred flower bulb growers, displaying their top of the line assortment to the world.

One of the original flower bulb growers was present during today's planting event: "My great-grandfather and his brother were among the initiators of the establishment of Keukenhof. My own grandfather even planted the very first flower bulbs! I am the 5th generation of the company and find it remarkable that today, like my grandfather, I planted the first flower bulbs together with the new managing director of Keukenhof, Sandra Bechtholt," said Lisa Lefeber of J.W.A Lefeber.

For those who wish to create a colorful garden or balcony in spring, now is the time to buy your flower bulbs and plant them before mid-December. This can be done by colour or type, but a beautiful mix will naturally look stunning in spring.

Keukenhof will be open in 2024 from March 21 to May 12. Tickets will be available from mid-October via www.keukenhof.nl.

Six Plantipp varieties were awarded prizes at GrootGroenPlus 2023. Ficus carica Little Miss Figgy ('LMF01') received a Gold medal for its uniformity, healthy leaves, and elegant fruits. It was also praised for its easy propagation and versatility due to its edible fruits.

Ligustrum lucidum Green Screen ('Bokrascreen') and Sarcococca hookeriana Purple Gem ('Purplerij1') received Silver medals, while Pyracantha coccinea 'Orange Star' was awarded a Bronze medal.

Green Grand Prix results

In the Green Grand Prix inspection, 20 plants were selected. The jury assessed and ranked 19 of these plants based on their performance. The top five included Pyracantha Orange Star, Ficus Little Miss Figgy, and Skimmia japonica Gold Series Desire ('Bolwi94'). These award-winning plants were commended for their compact growth, health, and visual appeal. They also offer various applications such as edible fruits or decorative berries.

Overall, the inspection was an inspiring event showcasing the latest developments in the horticultural sector to garden enthusiasts and professionals.

A Bradford-based garden centre group sponsored two categories in the Yorkshire Blogger Awards that were held in Leeds recently.

Yorkshire Garden Centres, owners of Tong, Tingley, Bingley and Otley Garden Centres, was one of the sponsors of the awards that celebrate talented, inspiring and creative bloggers throughout Yorkshire.

Yorkshire Garden Centres sponsored the Lifestyle award that was won by fashion, beauty, travel and lifestyle blogger, Sophia Pathak, and the group's adventure play brand, Grass Hoppers sponsored the Parenting award that was won by Brodie Briddock, who documents her daily life through her eponymous blog.

Harriet Hardiment, Yorkshire Garden Centres' Senior Marketing Assistant, attended the awards ceremony at the Queens Hotel with colleagues from the marketing department: "It was a fantastic evening and it was great to meet so many talented content creators, including our winners Sophia and Brodie.

"We love seeing great content being created that helps customers get inspired and informs their audiences."

The Yorkshire Blogger Awards were organised by Leeds-based Ascensor Digital Agency to recognise and reward Yorkshire's content creators, influencers and businesses.

Ken Davies, Director of Area Sales for LeisureGrow also commented “LeisureGrow would like to thank Choice Members for an exceptional and well attended show. Buyers are proactive in visiting stands, viewing products and placing orders, making the event extremely worthwhile. Working with Choice is collaborative, engaging and rewarding in many ways. Being awarded the 2023 Furniture and Outdoor Living supplier of the year award, is an absolute honour”.

other winners copy etc

See GTN's photo gallery of the Choice Marketing Conference Awards and Trade Show below

Certikin International Ltd, the UK leading wet leisure specialist, has concluded the acquisition of Bermuda, the water gardening and pond equipment brand, from Evolution Aqua Ltd. The move comes following five years of partnership between Certikin and Evolution Aqua which saw the Bermuda brand return to the UK market and flourish.

Through this partnership Evolution Aqua managed the sales and marketing functions of the business whilst Certikin managed the logistical and accounting elements - now all functions come under the control of Certikin.

“The acquisition of the Bermuda brand is great timing for Certikin and we aim to take it to its next stage of development in the market, whilst retaining the key personnel and brand identity that are important to Bermuda” says Steve Nelson, Commercial Director of Certikin

For our existing Bermuda customers it is business as usual as you have already been dealing with Certikin for the accounts side and your existing contact will still be Bob Meacham or Adam James.

Bermuda products will join the existing ranges from Certikin, including Heissner and AquaForte, which are already distributed in the water gardening and aquatics market. By combining ranges Certikin will be able to offer a complete portfolio of products for this unique and exciting market.

Premium garden furniture brand Bramblecrest has announced a new partnership with Dormy House, the award-winning Cotswolds rural retreat hotel & SPA.

The collaboration has resulted in a newly designed ‘Bramblecrest Back Garden’ concept in the lush gardens at Dormy House, connected to the Michelin rated Back Garden restaurant and MO, the chef’s table dining experience.

The Bramblecrest Back Garden features multiple branded zones for drinking, dining, and relaxing outdoors, showcasing a range of their popular garden furniture, including the classic style Sahara sets in the main Back Garden patio as well as the intimate Pagoda at the end of the garden. Also on display is Bramblecrest’s modern La Rochelle corner sofa and bench set with a showstopping firepit centerpiece positioned on a raised terrace platform for special cosy moments.

Other key design elements in the Bramblecrest Back Garden include statement outdoor mirrors, a picture-perfect wooden trellis covered in vines and an abundance of colourful potted plants for a scenic English garden experience. As a finishing touch, Bramblecrest has added a selection of their best-selling accessories including assorted scatter cushions, outdoor rugs and festoon lighting giving a homely atmosphere and inspiration for how to create a seamless indoor-outdoor living space.

Dormy House guests can also enjoy a bespoke Bramblecrest Back Garden Spritz cocktail with freshly picked herbs from the garden’s vegetable patch, as well as an exclusive discount code for future Bramblecrest furniture purchases.

Commenting on the partnership Charlotte Baron, Marketing Manager for Bramblecrest said: “Partnering with Dormy House is the perfect match for Bramblecrest, in terms of style and setting. Bringing together our two brands, both equally passionate about outdoor living, has allowed us to create a wonderful experience for the guests and visitors of Dormy House. We look forward to expanding the Bramblecrest Back Garden concept further, over time.”

In addition, Dormy House’s Executive General Manager, Stephen Browning, added: “We are thrilled with the outcome of the Bramblecrest Back Garden and believe this space has transformed an important part of this countryside hotel where guests really want to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh air as much as possible. Already we’ve had amazing feedback from guests, and after seeing the space in person, many have moved existing indoor restaurant bookings to sit here instead. Our Operations team have also been flooded with interest and enquiries about the furniture sets and firepit so we are confident that they will be re-creating their own Bramblecrest Back Gardens at home.” 

The Bramblecrest Back Garden at Dormy House is the first phase of an ongoing partnership with Farncombe, with plans in the works for additional branded collaborations.

In a heartwarming collaboration between The Old Railway Line Garden Centre and Three Cocks Matters Community Group, 300 households in Three Cocks are set to experience a burst of spring colour with a donation of daffodil bulbs.

Nick Pritchard, representing Three Cocks Matters, expressed excitement about this special initiative stating, “We are thrilled to announce a partnership with Three Cocks Matters Community Group and The Old Railway Line Garden Centre. Our aim is to add a vibrant touch of spring to our beautiful community while also benefiting our biodiversity. We hope everyone comes together to make our community bloom with these cheerful yellow flowers.”

As part of this initiative, family-run Garden Centre The Old Railway Line has generously provided a handful of daffodil bulbs to 300 households in Three Cocks with help from Kapiteyn. The cheerful yellow flowers are sure to bring a sense of joy and renewal to the community.

Operations Director, Katie Eckley, from The Old Railway Line Garden Centre added, “As an independent garden centre, we are passionate about not only our impact on the environment but also doing all we can to provide for our local community. We’d like to also thank Kapiteyn for helping us make it possible to donate enough bulbs for 300 households. We’re delighted to be part of this initiative and can’t wait to see the results in spring.”

This collaborative effort not only promises to enhance the visual appeal of Three Cocks but also serves as a symbol of community spirit and environmental stewardship. Residents are encouraged to participate in this blooming endeavour and share the joy of spring with neighbours.

For more information about The Old Railway Line Garden Centre visit www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk or call 01497847055.

As well as innovative new product launches, Charles Taylor has continued with its smart promotions on original product lines at original prices.

In the early days Charles Taylor introduced the £99 retail Two-Seater Bench which quickly accelerated the company’s growth and footprint within the industry. With its buying power of raw materials Charles Taylor has announced that this key retail price is achievable for the 2024 season.

Director Richard Ball said: “It’s great news for our loyal base of customers that the nett cost on this key line is reduced to be able to provide a fantastic retail price point of £99.

“The bench is fantastic, quality manufactured in the UK from FSC sustainable sourced raw materials, and with an oil-based water repellent offering. It also comes with a unique 10-year rot-free guarantee.

“We have the raw materials in stock to supply at this special price for the 2024 season, providing not only quality but tremendous value for money. BUY BRITISH!”

HEX Living hosted their first Golf Day at the fabulous JCB Golf & Country Club in Staffordshire. Helping raise money for the incredible charity MIND North Staffs, who offer constant support and help to people struggling with and fighting mental health problems.

With complete wall-to-wall sunshine, there was nothing not to enjoy whilst experiencing this fantastic venue. Starting the day with breakfast in the Champions Lounge, the driving range had a good proportion of round preparation before the first tee at 10 a.m. Throughout the day, guests joined in the popular Beat The Pro, Longest Drive, and Closest Pin and, of course, took their chances with the iconic 17th hole, over the water before finishing the course and heading to the bar for a well-deserved drink and rest.

Evening entertainment included a delicious three-course meal, prize presentations, a raffle, and a comedy sketch from the highly popular and hilarious John Stiles. 

The day ran seamlessly from start to finish, with guests truly digging deep, resulting in a wonderful £1986 raised for MIND North Staffs.

HEX Living would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to our amazing guests for such a memorable and fun-filled day. We hope you all enjoyed it as much as we did!

www.hexliving.co.uk

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