Garden Re-Leaf Day is on Friday this week, 18th March 2022, and that is also the last day for submissions to be made to the governments consultation on peat.
Garden Re-Leaf Day is on Friday this week, 18th March 2022, and that is also the last day for submissions to be made to the governments consultation on peat.
and follow the links in the Garden Re-Leaf Day story to join in the FUNdraising either at the Garden Re-Leaf Day Walk or get your own event going. Its a great opportunity to get some extra local media exposure at this key time of the year, have some fun and help the charity build more magical gardens for Children's Hospices.
Sadly, due to Covid, not all of the GTN Team will be able to attend the walk, but rest assured Trevor will be doing some FUNdraising back at base once fully recovered and looks forward to reporting on everyone's success over the weekend. Please remember to send your stories and photos to: trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk
Garden Re-Leaf Day is on Friday – March 18th – and brands and individuals from across the garden retail sector are getting ready to FUNdraise for the Greenfingers charity...
Garden Re-Leaf Day is on Friday – March 18th – and brands and individuals from across the garden retail sector are getting ready to FUNdraise for the Greenfingers charity.
The Garden Re-Leaf Sponsored Walk & Cycle Challenge
Whether its walking 10 miles or cycling 75 miles, the Sponsored Walk and Cycle challenge remains one of the best attended events in the Garden Re-Leaf roster.
This year the event will see representatives from Glee, Evergreen Garden Care, Mr Fothergill’s Seeds (Team ‘The Lightening Seeds’), Capi Europe, DLF, Hornby Whitefoot PR, Hozelock, Woodmansterne and Linford Forum (Team ‘The Proclaimers’) tackle the walk. Elsewhere, cyclists from Greenfingers, Westland Horticulture, Rivington Garden Designs, Hozelock, Frosts Garden Centre, Mr Fothergill’s Seeds and Evergreen Garden Care will tackle the picturesque course which will take in the sights of the Buckinghamshire countryside.
Big thanks must also go to those who have kindly volunteered to support this year’s FUNdraiser, including Dobbies, the host of this year’s event, Hozelock, our sponsor of the water bottles, LOFA, which has once again sponsored refreshments, whilst Jane Lawler, Mark Butler and Colin Wetherley-Mein will be on hand to steward the walkers and cyclists.
Garden centre support
Each year, garden centres from across the country pull out all the stops to celebrate Garden Re-Leaf Day and use this as the ideal opportunity to kick start the gardening season. In fact, many make it a Garden Re-Leaf weekend to help maximise the FUNdraising total across three days.
This year, many retailers have pulled out all the stops to ensure their FUNdraising goes with a bang…..
British Garden Centres across the country will be holding a range of events, including raffles, treasure hunts, cakes sales, pebble painting, staff will be going green and so much more to put the FUN into FUNdraising.
Braintree Garden Centre will, throughout March, be selling raffle tickets to customers. Each ticket will provide a chance to win a selection of prizes. Perrywood Garden Centres has confirmed that it will be holding its much loved Garden Re-Leaf quiz on March 18th, whilst Klondyke will be holding a special ‘TeLeaf for ReLeaf’ event over the Garden Re-Leaf weekend (19th – 20th March).
Haskins will be holding daily raffles and tombolas from March 11th to 20th with a range of top prizes up for grabs. Raffles will also be the order of the day at Longacres from 12th to 22nd of March.
Bellis Brother Farm Shop & Garden Centre has confirmed it will be holding a ‘Bellis Bake Off’ event on March 23rd. With staff often bringing in homemade cakes to be enjoyed in the staff room, the team have decided to add a fun (sponsored) competitive element to the day with their very own Mrs Bellis taking on the role of Mary Berry!
Over at The British Garden Centre Group and Millbrook Garden Centres both will once again be supporting.
Other activities
Greenfingers Trustee, Rob Jones (of The Garden Design Company) will also be offering complimentary garden blitzes or free garden design consultation to anyone that makes a £250 (suggested) donation to the charity. Places are strictly limited so Rob is asking any interested parties to contact him directly to secure one of these highly coveted prizes.
The team at Garden Blueprints - award winning specialists in garden design, landscape and planting – has confirmed it will be taking on a five to 69 mile walk around Calke Castle, whilst Evergreen Garden Care and Woodmansterne will be holding cake sales in the office.
Finally, leading brands QVC and AMES UK will also be showing their support, watch this space for more information.
How to get involved in Garden Re-Leaf Day 2022
Registration for the 2022 event is now live and Greenfingers is still on the look-out for sponsors of the event. To get involved visit the website, to find out more about sponsorship opportunities please contact Linda Petrons by emailing linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk
There are only two and a half days left for you to make your submission to the DEFRA consultation that could result in the biggest government intervention in gardening and garden retailing we have ever seen...
There are only two and a half days left for you to make your submission to the DEFRA consultation that could result in the biggest government intervention in gardening and garden retailing we have ever seen.
At the HTA orgainsed "Town Hall" events on 4th March we were advised that numbers of submissions do count, so now really is the time for all individuals involved in garden retailing to make sure their views are included in the consultation.
It takes about half an hour to complete the survey and you'll be asked about your views on:
A voluntary approach to ending the use of peat in Amateur Horticulture
Mandatory reporting of the volume of peat sold
Banning the sale of peat
A point of sale bag charge for the purchase of any growing media bag containing peat
Once completed you then receive a copy of your submission.
At the HTA event last week, The Growing Media Association said it would be working on key facts, such as the carbon footprints of different types of compost by this summer. As this vital information will not be available for this DEFRA cosultation it is important that as many views are heard in the meantime, that's where you come in.
As well as completing the survey as part of the consultation we are being urged to write to our MP's to make them aware of the situation.
Hare Hatch Sheeplands near Reading in Berkshire has finally had its plan for a green community focussed garden centre approved after a long and protracted process...
Hare Hatch Sheeplands near Reading in Berkshire has finally had its plan for a green community focussed garden centre approved after a long and protracted process.
In a statement, the directors Rob Scott, Andy Dicks and Nick Barnett said: “Shute End members of the WBC (West Berkshire Council) planning committee voted overwhelmingly to pass our application to become a garden centre against the officers’ recommendation.
“Our planning case and the views of our customers and local community were conveyed brilliantly by Alyson Jones, of Boyer planning, and Mark A’Bear, a resident of Charvil and customer of many years.
“Dr. Stephen Conway, member for Twyford, was magnificent in leading the debate and proposed that the plans should be passed. Nine out of 10 members from across the political spectrum agreed with his proposal and voted in favour of passing the planning application.
“It was notable that of all the things discussed, in a very thorough and civilised debate, listening to what their residents wanted was a key factor in helping the members to reach their decision.
“So a huge thank you to each and every one of you who have supported us through the years as we have made this journey together, without your support we would have given up years ago.
“We would also like to thank the team. To all of the Hare Hatch Sheeplands employees and associates past and present who have shared the dream through times of such uncertainty. It is them that have shaped Hare Hatch Sheeplands and made it the place that you enjoy coming to.
“Finally, we would also like to thank our families who have shared the sleepless nights and stress and provided the motivation to continue. We can now look forward to a new chapter as Hare Hatch Sheeplands Garden Centre as we build the business together. With that in mind we can begin to seek avenues of financing to enable the plans to turn into reality.”
Rob added: “I am truly humbled by the numerous letters and emails of support that were sent by our customers and the local community to support this application and all those that went before. It is exciting that we are now able to provide the facilities at Hare Hatch Sheeplands that our customers and the community have been demanding for a very long time.”
Pictured: Rob Scott and Andy Dicks standing in the Cactus House in December 2021.
Staff at Coolings Nurseries’ four sites in Kent & East Sussex had a wonderful surprise last week when Paul Cooling announced that 75% of the third-generation company was being signed over to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT)...
Staff at Coolings Nurseries’ four sites in Kent & East Sussex had a wonderful surprise last week when Paul Cooling announced that 75% of the third-generation company was being signed over to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).
Paul said: “We had already planned a meal at The House of Commons to celebrate successful navigation of the Covid pandemic and now we have an extra reason to raise a glass”.
In speeches, former shareholders David Cooling and Gary Carvosso paid tribute to Michael & Shirley Cooling who both passed away before the pandemic. It was Michael who took on the half acre Chislehurst site from his father in the 1960s and developed it into a profitable business before relocating to the now famous 14-acre site in Knockholt in 1990.
Paul Cooling, who retains a 25% shareholding, praised the Executive Directors for guiding the business since their last celebration at the House of Commons in recognition of the company’s centenary in 2013. “Back then, we had 2 sites, just over 100 employees and sales of around £6 Million. Now we have 4 sites, nearly 200 employees and sales well over £12 Million!”.
In addressing the team regarding the EOT he said: “You’ve earned it”.
Coinciding with the change of ownership, Gary Carvosso now becomes Chairman, Paul Cooling takes up the new role of Vice Chairman and Dwayne Ross becomes Managing Director. Ian Hazon is Production & Operations Director and David Cooling has now left the business.
Left to right: Gary Carvosso, Ian Hazon, David Cooling, Paul Cooling, Dwayne Ross at The House of Commons.
Coolings Directors at The House of Commons with Guest of Honour, Reverend Richard Coles.
A congregation of around 600 gathered in Manchester Cathedral on Thursday evening, 10th March, to celebrate the success of the Blue Diamond Group over the past two years...
A congregation of around 600 gathered in Manchester Cathedral on Thursday evening, 10th March, to celebrate the success of the Blue Diamond Group over the past two years.
MD, Alan Roper, led the Blue Diamond event, dancing onto the stage before extolling the great efforts of his garden centre teams. "By investing all our profits back into the centres we have rapidly grown in size. We'll be ahead of Dobbies by 2023! I'm currently working on 4 new acquisitions at the moment too."
As no awards could be presented in 2021 the main awards for Blue Diamond Garden Centres of the Year were each won by two centres, one the winner for 2021 and one for 2022. East Bridgford & Grosvenor were the Oak Award winners for Destination Centres with Nailsworth & Matlock the Acorn Award winners for Core Garden Centres.
After a glamorous night of celebration in the knave of Manchester Cathedral (see GTN's Exclusive photo gallery below) guests were transported by coach to the "After Party" at Impossible Theatre in central Manchester, where the photos stopped!
Blue Diamond Awards 2022 - The Full Results
Stock Management
Winner: Percy Throwers
Nominees: Sanders, Harlow, Percy Throwers
Home
Oak Winner: East Bridgford - Alistair Bartle
Nominees: Trentham - Andrew Bollington, Evesham - Natalie De Guelle, East Bridgford - Alistair Bartle
Acorn Winner: Harlow - Susan Cavey
Nominees: Coton Orchard - Laura Ross, Fermoys - Carole Spain, Harlow - Susan Cavey
Fashion
Oak Winner: Evesham - Alison Turner
Nominees: Brambridge - Lyndsey Smith, Trentham - Karen Locket, East Bridgford - Tracey Bull, Evesham - Alison Turner, Grosvenor - Sarah Williams
The cold weather at the start of March slowed garden centre volume sales slightly, down by 1% on the previous week and they were significantly down on the same week last year, by 37%. The same week last year was much better weather and came at the end of Lockdown #3.
The cold weather at the start of March slowed garden centre volume sales slightly, down by 1% on the previous week and they were significantly down on the same week last year, by 37%. The same week last year was much better weather and came at the end of Lockdown #3.
The week was however higher than the average first week of March sales over the previous five years.
It was good to see more product innovation at the Garden Press Event this week. Wildlife World won the Best New Product Award for their Plastic Free Gardening Rubber seed cells with many consumer press journalists raving about the concept and the range.
GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week in 2021: week 9.
Garden Products Top 50 – down 46%
Growing Media Top 50 – down 66%
Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – down 37%
Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – down 39%
GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week in 2021: week 9
All Plants with Barcode index – down 52%
All Items with Barcode index – down 37%
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 a hall brimming with quality plants and awash with colour, the Klondyke Group's annual Plant Show took place on 2nd March 2022...
With a hall brimming with quality plants and awash with colour, the Klondyke Group's annual Plant Show took place on 2nd March 2022.
Held at the Inchyra Grange Hotel close to the group’s Head Office and new Klondyke Garden Centre at Polmont, over 20 suppliers exhibited at the show.
The show, which was attended by the Group’s 22 Plant Managers and Horticultural Buying Team, gave the perfect opportunity to plan and select stock for the 2022 season by bringing them together with many of the best from the UK plant supply chain.
The show also saw the launch of Klondyke’s new Grow Your Own branding and showcased their Hello Spring … now’s the time campaign, again new for 2022.
Klondyke’s Head of Buying Andy Smith organised the show and commented “We really appreciate the support of our suppliers, we will continue to work closely with our supply base to introduce new and interesting lines to our ranges. Without the support of our suppliers, we have no business, so it is very important for us to work with them for the continued success of our business.
"I would like to thank all our suppliers for the support they have given our business over the last few years, I hope 2022 is a success for everyone”.
During the show, Allensmore Nurseries were presented with the Klondyke Group’s award for Supplier of the Year 2021.
Will Thomas, Account Manager at Allensmore Nurseries received the award and commented: “We were absolutely delighted to be awarded ‘Supplier of the Year’ at the recent Klondyke Spring Show. We have a superb relationship with the team at Klondyke and over the last few years have worked closely with them to develop the range that we supply. Like Klondyke we are a family run business who really pride ourself on quality and service, so to win this really means a lot to Allensmore. Thanks very much to Klondyke for this award, it’s a pleasure working with you.”
Mortonhall Garden Centre was awarded the Groups Plant Team of the Year: with Byrkley Park Garden Centre receiving Destination Plant Area of the Year award for 2021; with Wilmslow Garden Centre winner of the Plant Area of the Year category.
Plant sales were also significantly down on 2021 levels for the first week of March, but 5% up on the previous week as young veg plants go on sale for the first time this year...
Plant sales were also significantly down on 2021 levels for the first week of March, but 5% up on the previous week as young veg plants go on sale for the first time this year.
Tomato plants re-enter the GTN Chart at No 42.
Strawberry plant sales soared to be the highest climber of the week, up to No 13.
And sweet pea plants, Lathyrus, proved instantly popular, back in at No 35.
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.
Seedball is working with the BBC to deliver one million seed balls to schoolchildren as part of ‘The Green Planet’ TV series...
Seedball is working with the BBC to deliver one million seed balls to schoolchildren as part of ‘The Green Planet’ TV series.
Teachers can apply for a free pack of ‘Green Planets’ to help re-wild schools and teach the next generation about the importance of biodiversity.
Seed balls are an impressively simple way to grow native wildflowers from seed that’s easy and accessible while providing a fun and hands-on learning experience for school children.
The UK is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world, and Seedball is on a mission to help restore the base of Nature’s pyramid by inspiring and helping more people to grow wildflowers. One seed ball has the potential to grow a thousand wildflowers! Once the wildflower plant is established, it will start re-seeding naturally and in turn grow thousands more, turning schools into biodiverse hotspots.
Seedball jumped at the chance to support The Green Planet – one million balls will make a huge difference for wildlife. Each seed ball is a mini ecosystem, filled with wildflowers that will attract pollinators and other insects, which in turn attract animals feeding on those insects and the animals feeding on those animals. This positive domino effect of biodiversity restoration can create a dramatic impact on wildlife in a really short time. At the same time the campaign is nurturing well informed future rewilders and biodiversity champions.
It only takes minutes to scatter a pack of 100 seed balls - making restoring nature child’s play.
Seedball Co-founder & Director, Dr Anais Attlee, said: “Children are the future of our planet and inspiring young growers with the wonder of planting at an early age will not only benefit our environment now but well into the future. We are so excited to work with BBC Green Planet TV Series to gift 1 million seed balls to schools across the UK."
Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre in Gloucestershire is donating 50% of its proceeds today ( Sunday 13th March) to the UK Disaster and Emergencies Committee (DEC) to help those affected by the conflict in Ukraine...
Batsford Arboretum in Gloucestershire is donating 50% of its proceeds today ( Sunday 13th March) to the UK Disaster and Emergencies Committee (DEC) to help those affected by the conflict in Ukraine.
This time of year, visitors to the 56-acre North Cotswolds arboretum can enjoy an abundance of daffodils, plus crocus and hellebores, as well as early-flowering magnolia and cherry trees.
The charity who manage the arboretum, The Batsford Foundation, will donate 50% of the takings from the arboretum admissions on Sunday 13th March with a pledged to donate a minimum of £5,000 to the DEC.
Director of Operations at Batsford, Stuart Priest, says “Along with the rest of the nation, we’ve been horrified by the recent suffering in Ukraine and, as a business, we wanted to show our support to those suffering as a result of the conflict, we feel it's the least we can do.”
For more information on Batsford and to book admission tickets, please visit www.batsarb.co.uk.
Deco-Pak has shown its support for those who need it most by sending several pallets of essentials to those in war-torn Ukraine...
Deco-Pak has shown its support for those who need it most by sending several pallets of essentials to those in war-torn Ukraine.
Like so many of us, the Deco-Pak team have seen the devastation tearing across Ukraine, with images of displaced families seeking refuge filling our daily news feed. Unable to sit and do nothing, the team have pulled together pallets full of essential toiletries and basic necessities that will be sent to those who are in greatest need.
Craig Hall, Director at Deco-Pak said: “There was no way we could see the events that are taking place in Ukraine without stepping up and doing what we can. We are lucky in that we have many existing partnerships with haulage companies and the Ukrainian community so have been able to react quickly and get essentials on the road to those at the heart of the conflict.
“Providing help to those most vulnerable is something we hope others in our community might consider doing and, if they do, we’d happily share our insight. We firmly believe that anything we can do together, no matter how little it might feel, to help those facing such a humanitarian crisis is worth trying."
Evergreen Garden Care have invested £7 million this year in order to increase their peat free production capacity – announced back at GLEE in 2021 - cementing their position as leading the peat free roadmap but demonstrating the scale of investment required by manufacturers due to the different handling requirements of raw materials in peat free mixes...
Evergreen Garden Care have invested £7 million this year in order to increase their peat free production capacity – announced back at GLEE in 2021 - cementing their position as leading the peat free roadmap but demonstrating the scale of investment required by manufacturers due to the different handling requirements of raw materials in peat free mixes.
In response to this increased demand and strategic plan, Evergreen Garden Care has made some key changes internally to the Leadership Team and the roles that manage both Supply Chain and Sales.
Phil Harrison will move across to Operations & Supply Chain Director from his current role as Sales Director for Independents. Phil has been an important strategic member of the UK Leadership Team for over three years where he has built strong relationships with our key customers across the country.
Mark Portman, UK Managing Director said: “This move demonstrates the strength of talent we have in the organisation to be able to promote people from within. This move will further bring our Commercial and Operations & Supply Chains closer together as we continue to improve the service that we give to our customers.”
Phil Harrison said: “I am looking forward to taking on this new challenge within Evergreen. It’s essential for Supply Chain and Sales to work together closely to ensure that we can meet demands to satisfy the needs of the growing number of gardeners across the country.”
As part of the changes Andy Williams, currently Regional Manager for the South within Independents, will take on the role of interim Head of Sales for with all of the Independents Sales team reporting into Andy. As part of this change Andy will sit as part of the UK Leadership Team.
Andy Williams said: "Having been part of Evergreen Garden Care since it was formed back in 2018, I am particularly honoured to be moving into this leadership role. The Independent Sector represents an integral part of Evergreen's UK operations and the opportunity to further support the growth of the lifeblood of this industry is very exciting.”
A final change is that Nic Griffin currently leading on our Groups business within Independents will take on the additional responsibility of interim Southern Region Sales Team Manager.
The above changes are in place from Monday March 14th.
The findings of research, commissioned by Perennial in 2021 to develop an understanding of health and wellbeing across the horticultural community, have shown that 81% of people generally feel good about their health. However, many are facing significant physical and mental wellbeing challenges that do not equate with good health...
The findings of research, commissioned by Perennial in 2021 to develop an understanding of health and wellbeing across the horticultural community, have shown that 81% of people generally feel good about their health. However, many are facing significant physical and mental wellbeing challenges that do not equate with good health.
The findings are based on the combined results of Perennial’s Health & Wellbeing Survey (2021), the Horticultural Labour Market Research (2021) and the Wellbeing Kiosk Results (2019).
The number of people in the industry with poor mental wellbeing is above the UK’s national average - 85% of people’s mental wellbeing was found to be poor or below average.
Over three quarters of people are experiencing aches and pains, with back and joint pain being prevalent - 78% of respondents had experienced back and joint pain in the last six weeks.
33% only seek help when they believe that they’re really ill. Yet, a delay in seeking care could lead to, a delay in diagnosis and treatment, living in pain for longer and/or a deterioration in their condition.
Julia Hayne, Director of Services at Perennial, says: “Through the inaugural Horticulture Wellbeing Survey (2021), Labour Market Research (2020) and Wellbeing Kiosk results (2019) we are building a picture of the health and wellbeing of the industry. There is a significant gap between individuals’ perceived and actual state of health and wellbeing. More awareness around good health and wellbeing is needed to prevent serious problems in the future.”
The research provides the industry with an insight into the causes and impact of poor wellbeing. It highlights how individuals across the sector feel about their health and the issues that are important to them which include their physical and mental wellbeing, finances, careers and training.
To truly build better futures for the whole horticultural community, Perennial encourages a shared understanding by the industry of the real and perceived challenges people are facing. As well as collaboration to develop sustainable solutions which support the key recommendations:
Help the horticulture community to understand good health and wellbeing
Encourage the horticulture community to build healthier lives and adopt positive routines
Build a culture of wellbeing
Develop our knowledge base
The findings from Perennial’s Health & Wellbeing research are available at perennial.org.uk/survey.
The Greenfingers Charity has confirmed that it will be exhibiting at the forthcoming RHS Chelsea Flower Show (May 24-28) thanks to British Garden Centres...
The Greenfingers Charity has confirmed that it will be exhibiting at the forthcoming RHS Chelsea Flower Show (May 24-28) thanks to British Garden Centres.
Considered the world’s most prestigious flower show, RHS Chelsea is the place to see cutting-edge garden design, new plants and inspiring ideas to take home. Every year the event draws a truly global crowd, an audience that Greenfingers hopes to reach when it joins the show to promote its incredible work creating therapeutic gardens in children’s hospices throughout the country.
Greenfingers’ presence at RHS Chelsea is only possible due to the extraordinary generosity of British Garden Centres, which has very kindly offered to sponsor the charity’s stand. Located on the Eastern Avenue (stand EA453) – the thriving shopping and information hub – the team from Greenfingers will be hoping to spread the word and encourage more people to get involved and support the charity. In doing so, the charity will be able to continue its valuable work building magical gardens for children as well providing their families and staff with a place for peaceful reflection.
Boyd Douglas Davies, Director at British Garden Centres said: “We are so pleased we are able to support Greenfingers by enabling them to have a presence at RHS Chelsea this summer. The event is the perfect place to shout from the rooftops regarding the work the charity undertakes, with an attending audience that is already engaged with the mental and physical benefits of gardening. We’ve no doubt that the show will see legions of new supporters be inspired by the work of the charity and in turn dig deep to support.”
Sue Allen, Chairman at the Greenfingers charity added: “Our sincerest thanks to British Garden Centres for their support in helping us gain a presence at RHS Chelsea. We are really looking forward to get onsite and start telling all the wonderful visitors more about the work we do, and hope that many of them will consider making Greenfingers their charity of choice.”
You will find the Greenfingers team on stand EA453 on the Eastern Avenue at RHS Chelsea. If you are attending the show, please do stop by for some classic Greenfingers hospitality.
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.
To celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2024, Greenfingers charity has launched its most ambitious fundraising target yet – to raise an incredible £2,000,025...
To celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2024, Greenfingers charity has launched its most ambitious fundraising target yet – to raise an incredible £2,000,025.
The initiative – called the Greenfingers Silver Appeal – will ensure the charity can continue its work, creating inspiring gardens in children’s hospices across the UK over the next three years and beyond.
To help achieve this ambitious target, Greenfingers has launched a new partnership programme, which will enable businesses and individuals to pledge their fundraising support for the next three years (or longer), with three new partner ‘packages’ available.
Platinum Partners
Platinum Partners will pledge to raise an incredible £25,000 over three-years. Gifts in kind can be included in the calculations.
In addition to playing a pivotal part in supporting the vital work of Greenfingers Charity, Platinum partners will also enjoy increased engagement with the charity including early access to Greenfingers events, invites to all Greenfingers garden open events and access to a wide range of promotion opportunities.
To-date several leading brands have already confirmed their status as Platinum partners, including Clarins, Evergreen Garden Care, AMES UK, British Garden Centres, GIMA, Woodmansterne, Woodlodge, Garden Trade News, Richard Jacksons Garden and Millbrook Garden Centres.
Silver Partners
Over the next three years, Silver Partners will pledge to raise £10,000, with gifts in kind once again included within the total.
Like Platinum partners, Silver Partners will enjoy a wealth of additional benefits as thanks for their support, including 10 hours support from the Greenfingers team, an invitation to one regional Greenfingers garden opening and ongoing promotion through Greenfingers PR, marketing and social media activity.
Companies that have already confirmed their Silver Partnership status include Deco-Pak, Garden Connect, Hornby Whitefoot PR and Rose Press Garden.
Sterling Ambassadors
Sterling Ambassadors, whether companies or individuals, will pledge to raise £2,500 for Greenfingers, whilst also using their efforts to help further the work of Greenfingers over the next three years.
All Sterling Ambassadors – which so far includes long-term Greenfingers supporter, Kate Ebbens of Capi Europe - will be able to join a quarterly Greenfingers meetings plus have access to fundraising collateral.
Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Greenfingers said: “Reaching 25 years will be an incredibly emotional milestone when we look back on all the incredible projects we have so far brought to life. Over the last 22 years we have been able to work in partnership with some of the most amazing businesses and individuals, who together help us to continue our work year after year. Our Silver Appeal is our most ambitious fundraising project yet and already we are overwhelmed by the positive response we’ve received from those we’ve managed to talk to so far. We hope that more will engage with this appeal and know that every penny raised will make a real difference. On behalf of all of us at Greenfingers and all those that spend time in a Greenfingers garden – thank you. We are forever grateful for your generosity.”
To find out how you can support the Silver Appeal contact Linda by emailing Linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk.
In a year that saw spiralling mental health issues throughout the community, Tong Garden Centre has raised £7557 for a Batley based charity that offers free training sessions to help promote physical and mental wellbeing...
In a year that saw spiralling mental health issues throughout the community, Tong Garden Centre has raised £7557 for a Batley based charity that offers free training sessions to help promote physical and mental wellbeing.
Colleagues and customers at the Bradford garden centre raised the funds for their 2021 Charity of the Year, ‘Luke's Lads' and sister charity, ‘Butterflies' through a series of fund-raising events and collection boxes at the tills.
The Charity of the Year fundraising is managed by a committee led by the People and Culture team at the Tong Lane site. People and Culture Business Partner, Becki Smith said: "Male suicide is the biggest killer of men under 45 in the UK, with many men suffering in silence when they experience feelings of sadness, loneliness or anxiety.
"We're delighted to have raised over £7,500 for such deserving causes. We would like to thank all of our colleagues and customers who supported everything from mammoth sporting events including a virtual walk from Land's End to John O'Groats and an 80k cycle challenge to raffles and a festive bake-off competition."
Luke's Lads was established in 2018 after local man Luke Naylor committed suicide following a battle with mental health and depression. It was set up by his best friend, Elliot Gorman and his mother, Rachel Walmsley with the support of Luke's family to give people a safe place to express their feelings, get active and help promote physical and mental wellbeing. Both groups are supported by the charity TCD - Tackling social isolation in the Community through Diverse activities and Mr. Gorman is its chairperson.
"TCD would like to offer our most sincere thanks to Tong Garden Centre, who chose to support Luke's Lads and Butterflies throughout 2021. All of their hard work and the efforts of staff who took part in fund raising activities throughout the year raised over £7,500 - an amazing amount! This will fund three months' worth of sessions for all of our groups - Luke's Lads, Luke's Lads Juniors and Luke's Lads 16-19, Butterflies, Butterflies Juniors and Butterflies 16-19.
"Because of this generous donation, we can offer our sessions free of charge to those who need them. Thanks again, Tong Garden Centre. Your efforts have blown us away!" said Luke's Lads co-founder, Mr. Gorman.
Since Tong Garden Centre was acquired by new owners in 2015, the team and supporters have raised over £47,500. Previous beneficiaries of Tong's Charity of the Year initiative include Martin House Hospice, The Cellar Trust, Candlelighters and National Literacy Trust. In addition, the team has supported hundreds of smaller charities in the local community.
GUANORGANICS – exclusively suppliers of guano rich fertiliser - is seeking new retail trading partners in the United Kingdom. Here, we take a look at the history of the company and exactly what this amazing country has to offer the British consumer market – and it’s a lot more than just our beloved Paddington Bear!
GUANORGANICS – exclusively suppliers of guano rich fertiliser - is seeking new retail trading partners in the United Kingdom. Here, we take a look at the history of the company and exactly what this amazing country has to offer the British consumer market – and it’s a lot more than just our beloved Paddington Bear!
Established in 2004 GUANORGANIC parent company, the Anglo-Peruvian Trading Company, is a UK based business which specialises in sourcing exceptional products from reputable and experienced producers and exporters in Peru, for their introduction to suitable buyers in the United Kingdom and Europe.
Fresh for spring 2022, the company brings its unique blend of 100% organic and sustainable GUANORGANIC fertiliser to the UK market. Made from guano – the excrement of seabirds – GUANORGANIC is rich in essential Potassium, Nitrogen, Phosphorous (NPK 12-12-2), sulphur and iodine, with a high calcium content, meaning this environmentally responsible fertiliser provides all the nutrients a plant needs for the production of abundant food-crops and flowers.
Easy to apply and safe to handle GUANORGANIC pellets are the perfect choice for both amateur gardeners and professionals committed to sustainable growing. Renowned for its exceptional performance and soil-enhancing qualities, Guano is a well-established ingredient in many well-known brands of fertiliser and is already supplied to large manufacturers of own-brand product in Holland, Germany, and France.
For the environmentally conscious GUANORGANIC is by far the superior choice over synthetic fertilisers, which over time have a huge detrimental impact on soil quality, reducing crop production and already responsible for contaminating waterways all over the UK.
A Circular Economy spanning the Centuries
It might be relatively new to Britain, but when the Ancient Incas created their amazing circular terraces at Moray, the Sacred Valley of Cuzco-Peru, they utilised Guano for the development of agriculture in what became one of the world’s great high civilisations.
Fast-forward to the twenty-first century and we have a truly sustainable, circular-lifespan product created from the waste materials of local fish and birds. Highly nutritious anchovies from the Peruvian Pacific Ocean provide a consistent, stable diet for millions of seabirds whose droppings are deposited over many small island and peninsulas off the coast of Peru. Over time these abundant droppings are weathered into an exceptionally potent, natural fertiliser, thanks to the unique weather conditions of coastal Peru, where it seldom rains.
Guano is harvested by hand between April and September, well outside the birds’ breeding season of October to March. Each location is harvested every five to seven years, with careful consideration to the extraction schedule to ensure there is minimal to no disruption to the birds, and certainly no harm.
This care and consideration is not, of course, limited to the bird kingdom and Anglo-Peruvian Trading Company is committed to providing good working conditions to more than 900 workers who hail from a special region in the highlands of Peru. These invaluable workers apply unique skills to their work with Guano which have been passed down to them over many generations.
As a subsidised commercial product, the annual harvesting of Guano is a vital source of income for independent farmers in the highlands and jungles of Peru. As well as offering important socio-economic benefits, the export of Guano serves a dual purpose in the form of good conservation, surveillance and maintenance of the island regions where harvesting takes place.
Land of the Condor
Peru is an incredibly beautiful and diverse country with a long, rich history that’s steeped in myths and legends. South America’s third largest country (with five times the landmass of the UK), has three distinct geographical regions: Over 2000km of lowlands and coast, the high Sierra of the Andes and dense forest and rainforest.
Abundant in rich soil and with a long heritage of agricultural expertise, Peru has the world’s greatest climate diversity, experiencing 28 of the world’s 32 different climates and the largest biodiversity of plant species in the world. This great diversity has gifted Peru with extensive and varied agricultural land that is perfect for the development of new corps and products.
The technical expertise of Peruvian growers and producers has also brought the most efficient irrigation system in the region to their country, along with a very wide variety of exotic products that are more desirable than ever in the United Kingdom and Europe. Peru is an exciting country with unique products and enormous business potential - the market opportunity for further growth is immense.
To foster the nation’s vital natural resources and heritage, The Anglo-Peruvian Company and GUANORGANICS is also developing a special programme to increase the area protected by Law and defined as NATURAL RESERVES in Peru.
Throughout its 45-plus year history, Glee has taken place in September. But 2022 marks a new chapter for the exhibition as the event will take place in late June (28th-30th) at the NEC Birmingham. Here, the Glee organisers explain the reasons behind the move...
Throughout its 45+ year history, Glee – the UK’s largest and most prestigious garden trade event – has taken place in September. However, 2022 marks an exciting new chapter for the exhibition as, following a period of extensive research and consultation, and in a move designed to better support the evolving needs of the garden retail sector, the 2022 event will take place in late June (28th-30th) at the NEC Birmingham. Here, the Glee organisers explain the reasons behind why the gardening industry will be congregating in high summer.
A new chapter for Glee in 2022
There is no question that the events of the last few years have cemented changes in the way we shop, which, in turn, has changed the way retailers look to onboard new and existing product orders. Demand for gardening products and associated sundries has grown exponentially, with two key sales periods being clearly identified – February to June, and September to December. Wanting to remain responsive to these changes has led Glee to a period of significant consultation, the results being one of the biggest changes that Glee has made for many years – a move to late June.
Better situated within changing buying cycles
Glee in June offers better synergies with buying cycles. With longer lead times – up to 12 months in advance - shaping professionalised buying practices, this change in the timing of Glee will provide improved access to products that meet peak seasonal sales demand and will enable retailers to forecast and manage these peak periods more confidently.
Of those consulted, over 57% stated that lead times have extended significantly, making September too late to complete comprehensive buying for the year ahead. With a June date, retailers can undertake all their buying under one roof, minimising time spent on the road visiting showrooms, whilst also working with live data resulting from quarter one financial assessment and monthly range performance assessment, something that over 66% of those consulted confirmed they now undertake.
The centre of the events calendar
Glee’s new date looks to also position the show more centrally within the wider exhibition cycle. Glee’s late June timing make it easier for many companies to exhibit at the NEC, by spring boarding from complementary events earlier in the calendar. The benefit for visiting retailers is that they will have even more choice and access to brands that they may not otherwise see. What’s more, access to Glee is improved for international visitors already on the exhibition trail in mainland Europe.
Leaving space for Christmas
With Christmas driving the forward focus in September for many retailers, Glee moving out of this crucial space will enable retailers to concentrate on the key sales period like never before, safe in the knowledge that their spring and summer orders are in place and stock is winging its way to them when it is needed most.
Maximising DIY, grocery and home & gift sales opportunities
The benefit of Glee’s realigned timing is also well supported by suppliers, with 72% of those exhibitors consulted wholly supporting the move. June aligns with the supplier sell-in period to DIY and grocery accounts, whilst enabling an extended consultation period with garden centres. A move to earlier in the year also offers improved growth opportunities for home and gift retailers who want to maximise Christmas sales.
Find out more
To keep up to date on the latest Glee news visit www.gleebirmingham.com. To enquire about exhibiting at Glee 2020 call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.
Nurturing homegrown vegetables and fruit and giving them the best possible start is set to be easier than ever with the launch of the all-new 100% organic and natural Vegetable & Fruit Topsoil – a rich blend of topsoil and soil improver - from the experts at The Real Soil Company...
Nurturing homegrown vegetables and fruit and giving them the best possible start is set to be easier than ever with the launch of the all-new 100% organic and natural Vegetable & Fruit Topsoil – a rich blend of topsoil and soil improver - from the experts at The Real Soil Company.
Following hot on the heels of the innovative SuperSoil topsoil which shook up the growing media category in 2021, the new Vegetable & Fruit Topsoil will enjoy the same key characteristics that enable plants and crops to thrive from day one, delivering delicious flavour and higher crop yields.
Organic & natural
Packed full of organic nutrients for optimal plant health, The Real Soil Company’s Vegetable & Fruit Topsoil features a 100% natural topsoil, coupled with 100% natural, organic peat-free compost that is PAS100 certified and is analysed by The Real Soil Company’s soil scientists to ensure that every single batch is perfectly blended in accordance with its own stringent formula. In line with the Real Soil Company’s philosophy, all-new Vegetable & Fruit topsoil will not see the addition of any chemicals or artificial fertilisers to ensure the natural integrity of the product is not, and never will be, compromised.
Each bag of this latest innovation will feature slow-releasing major nutrients, trace elements and minerals which provide plants with a continual boost to help throughout their growth cycle. Vegetable & Fruit Topsoil is also designed to improve soil type and structure, including improved water retention and better resistance against pests and diseases.
An additional benefit for gardeners is the fact that the blend of topsoil and compost means less time spent digging, making it the perfect partner for those that have adopted the no-dig method of organic gardening.
Added value in the retail setting
The new Vegetable & Fruit Topsoil will also enjoy the same unique hand-drawn branding that has become synonymous with The Real Soil Company and helps to set it apart within the retail environment. To ensure that consumers can make educated buying decisions at the point, each bag will clearly highlight the product’s benefits and characteristics, whilst cutting through the noise to simplify the science, specifically addressing the inclusion of essential elements such as phosphorous, magnesium, potassium, and organic matter.
Talking about the latest introduction, James Romaine, Business Development Manager at The Real oil Company said: “The response to SuperSoil has far exceeded expectation so it felt right to build on this to build out a more comprehensive product portfolio. This latest addition opens up the home-growing category, providing consumers with more choice and greater confidence in their grow-your-own projects.
“What’s more, The Real Soil Company offering is designed to specifically appeal to the premium garden centre offering and those that are proactively seeking products that positively impact the climate change crisis, as well as challenging the use of harmful pesticides and peat-based products. This is a product for not just the now but long into the future.”
Southern Trident is supporting the UK Government’s Kickstart Scheme, bringing younger out-of- work people on board and, as per the Scheme, giving them a six-month period of employment...
Southern Trident is supporting the UK Government’s Kickstart Scheme, bringing younger out-of- work people on board and, as per the Scheme, giving them a six-month period of employment.
This has been a brilliant scheme for us and has been a great success as we have just given full-time, permanent positions to our two KickStarters. Newly relocated to Scunthorpe, this also shows our support of our local community, something that is very important to the three people who founded Southern Trident.
In July last year, we took on two local young men, Ryan Swan, aged 24, and Brandon Paterson, aged 22. Initially, due to the seasonality of our business, they worked 32.5 hours a week, which then increased to full-time hours during our peak season during December and the beginning of this year.
Both Ryan and Brandon work as Warehouse Operatives. Initially, they worked on the shopfloor, learning on the job about picking and packing products, unloading containers and loading vehicles with our products being sent to garden centres and national retailers across the whole of the UK.
We have provided them with training in computer administration related to logistics, such as order processing and documentation. They have learned how to use our CIN7 stock management system and how to manage and process orders coming in from our e-commerce website. We have also provided further in-house and online training for them. They have both passed their NCFE Level 2 in Warehouse and Storage Training, provided via Hull University. Brandon has passed his Counter-Balance Forklift Test, and Ryan will do this in the near future. They have both passed their Emergency First Aid at Work Training Course.
We have more courses lined up for both young men, including further structured online training from Hull University, Manual Handling and COSHH Awareness training, which they will complete over the coming months.
Last month, they both completed their six-month KickStart Programme with us and, as we are delighted with their work ethic, positive attitude and the great progress they have made, both have been offered, and accepted, full-time permanent contracts.
Both Brandon and Ryan are excited to be working with such a fast-growing start-up company based in their local area. They are really positive and excited about their future careers and seeing growth in the business, which will enable them to learn and grow with us.
Iestyn Walton, our Warehouse Manager, says: “I have to be honest, I was sceptical when our CEO mentioned the scheme at first. I shortlisted a number of CVs and did phone interviews with roughly 10 candidates, reducing it down to three for interview. Both Ryan and Brandon came across as being very keen and willing to learn. I have been really pleased with their positive attitude, as well as the speed with which they have picked up new things, and they both want to do an excellent job and are keen to progress their careers with us.”
The Horticultural Trades Association has announced that James Clark, Director of Policy and Communications, has decided to leave...
The Horticultural Trades Association has announced that James Clark, Director of Policy and Communications, has decided to leave after almost three years with the organisation.
HTA Chairman, James Barnes, said: “I want to thank James for all his hard work and commitment to the HTA and its members. He has achieved a huge amount – leading the successful campaign to re-open garden centres as the first sector out of the Covid lockdown in May, establishing the HTA’s first ever sustainability function and launching the Association’s new magazine, Inside Horticulture – delivering improved member value. I wish James all the very best for the future”.
James Clark said: “I’m obviously sad to leave the HTA but it is the right time to do so. I’m excited about new opportunities. I’m really pleased to have worked with such a great, award-winning policy and communications team. Together we achieved key policy change, improved the Industry’s media profile and delivered insightful member communications. I leave with respect and gratitude to an industry that does so much that contributes to local communities, improves the environment and brightens peoples lives.”
James has agreed to help with the transition until 15 April 2022. The HTA will commence the recruitment of a successor in due course.
Clare Matterson CBE will be the next Director General of the RHS, the UK’s largest gardening charity. Clare, currently Executive Director, Engagement at the Natural History Museum (NHM), will join the RHS on Monday 9 May 2022...
Clare Matterson CBE will be the next Director General of the RHS, the UK’s largest gardening charity. Clare, currently Executive Director, Engagement at the Natural History Museum (NHM), will join the RHS on Monday 9 May 2022.
In her current role at NHM, Clare led the development of the new strategy to create ‘advocates for the planet’ and drove forward initiatives including the Urban Nature Project, ‘Our Broken Planet' and Dippy on Tour. She also led the transformation of its digital activities, which has resulted in a large increase across all online platforms now reaching over 15 million people globally.
A significant part of Clare’s career has been at Wellcome Trust, where as Director of Strategy she produced the charitable foundation’s 2015 strategy that set its first priorities in mental health, planetary health, and antibiotic resistance. Here she also co-founded Wellcome Collection as a major new art and science cultural venue in London, established the National STEM Learning Centre to transform UK science education, and initiated The Great Plant Hunt to mark the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth.
A keen gardener and member of the RHS for nearly 30 years, Clare believes gardening has the power to foster an important connection to the natural world, giving everyone the chance to learn from nature whether from their own plot, a community garden or a simple window box. A firm believer that the ‘H’ for horticultural in the RHS is core to the charity, she recognises how the joy of growing plants and gardening can have a positive impact on people and society.
Keith Weed CBE, President of the RHS, said: “We are very excited about the appointment of Clare as the next DG of the RHS.
“The RHS has been leading the way championing the difference we can all make through gardens and growing plants to create positive change, mitigate against the climate and biodiversity crises and help our health and wellbeing – these are topics that Clare is also passionate about and throughout her career she has believed in connecting people with nature. We have 200 years of gardening knowledge at the RHS and more than anything we love sharing everything we’ve learnt to help people garden and enjoy gardens.
“With Clare’s vision, leadership and creativity, I’m looking forward to everyone at the RHS working together to make the charity an even bigger force for good in gardening and helping the planet through people and plants.”
Clare, who was awarded her CBE for services to public engagement in science, said: “It is both an honour and a joy to be the next DG of the RHS.
“The RHS is an organisation that matters and can make a real difference to the world. Gardens have such a huge role to play to shape a more positive future. It is in our gardens that we find answers for people and planet, for community, for inclusion and for wellbeing.
“I’m delighted to be the person who will lead the RHS to show how through our gardens and plants, however big or small, urban or rural, we can all have a direct experience and connection with nature.
“I can’t wait to start and meet everyone who works at, volunteers for and is involved with this extraordinary charity and the wider horticultural world.”
Clare will begin with the RHS on 9 May for a period of transition with the current Director General, Sue Biggs, before taking over as Director General on Tuesday 14 June at the RHS Annual General Meeting. The RHS thanks Sue for all she has done for the charity over her 11 years as DG.
Keith finishes: “Clare arrives at an exciting time at the RHS with last year’s recent openings of our fifth new garden, RHS Bridgewater, and RHS Hilltop - the home of gardening science at Wisley. Gardening is booming and our growing membership reflects this, we have just passed 600,000 members, but there is still much more to do.”
Despite the cooler weather during the first week of March and particularly at the weekend, sales of garden products indicated a strong desire to get growing. Plant food, seed trays, gardening gloves and lawn care lines all sold well. As did pots and pot feet...
Despite the cooler weather during the first week of March and particularly at the weekend, sales of garden products indicated a strong desire to get growing. Plant food, seed trays, gardening gloves and lawn care lines all sold well. As did pots and pot feet!
Highlights of the week were:
Garland’s Green Seed tray moved up from No 36 to No 4.
Woodlodge’s Spang Pot 3 inch moved up even more places from No 47 to No 5.
Smart Garden Product’s Flexedge in Green was the highest new entry of the week.
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.
Growing media sales dipped slightly during the first week of March but overall sales to date this year continue to be way ahead of the previous three years.
Growing media sales dipped slightly during the first week of March but overall sales to date this year continue to be way ahead of the previous three years.
A couple of good weekends weather-wise and we will have a much better indication as to the level of overall growing activity likely to be going on this Spring.
Highlights of the week were:
Westland’s Erin Multipurpose 50 litres moves up one place to to top of the GTN Chart.
Country Care Horse Compost is the highest chart climber at No 22.
Evergreen Garden Care Miracle-Gro Ericaceous Peat Free Compost is the highest chart re-entry of the week.
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.
Veg-2-Gro sales saw good week on week growth, up by 10%, as young veg plants came into centres for the first time this year...
Veg-2-Gro sales saw good week on week growth, up by 10%, as young veg plants came into centres for the first time this year.
The fact that sales are up by 30% so far this year is a great indicator of people’s desire to grow their own during this year of economic uncertainty.
Highlights of the week were:
Onion sets continue at the top of the chart with Centurion F1 proving to be the most popular last week, just ahead of Red Baron.
Rosemary Officinalis, from Retail Solutions in Holland, were the highest new entry of the week.
Young Carrot Chantenay plants, a pack of 12, were also a new entry at No 21.
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.
Family-owned discount retailer QD – QualityDiscounts.com – has appointed a new finance director, following the retirement of Graham Moxon, after 27 years with the company...
Family-owned discount retailer QD – QualityDiscounts.com – has appointed a new finance director, following the retirement of Graham Moxon (above), after 27 years with the company.
The new finance director is Peter Fairley, a chartered accountant with 20 years’ experience as a finance director in the retail, wholesale, distribution and import industries, for both PLCs and owner managed businesses.
Peter, who worked in London for 10 years and, for the past 17 years in the East Midlands, said: “I am relishing this new role, working for a dynamic and expanding business. Graham has done an excellent job and I look forward to stepping into his shoes, helping provide the finances and control to assist the QD Group in its future expansion, while adding additional insights into the business through detailed analysis.”
Graham Moxon commented: “This has been a wonderful company to work for with a great team of people. I’d like to pay tribute to all my former colleagues and particularly our chairman, Danny Rubins and chief executive, Nick Rubins, whom it has been a privilege to work alongside. QD has grown and evolved beyond recognition since I first joined, and I am pleased to hand over the reins to Peter who is an experienced and highly capable FD. I am confident that he will help steer the group to new achievements in the future.”
QD has enjoyed significant growth, continually bucking the trend of high street retail decline, and despite the challenges presented by the pandemic. Over recent months, they have opened a new QD store in Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire and have just completed the acquisition of Retford and Gainsborough Garden Centre, which becomes the Group’s 16th Cherry Lane outlet.
Nick Rubins, chief executive of the QD Group, said: “I wish Graham well in his retirement. He has been an excellent finance director with whom I have thoroughly enjoyed working. He has helped steer us through a period of sustained growth for the Group. I am now delighted to welcome Peter who brings with him a wealth of very valuable experience. It is an exciting time for QD and Peter will be playing a key role in the business’s future.”
Real estate company Savills has brought to market the freehold interest in Noyces Home and Garden Centre in Kingsbridge, Devon at a guide of £1.5m. It is the first time the asset has been offered to market in over 20 years...
Savills, on behalf of a private client, has brought to market the freehold interest in Noyces Home and Garden Centre in Kingsbridge, Devon at a guide of £1.5m. It is the first time the asset has been offered to market in over 20 years.
Noyces Home and Garden Centre is a long established family business. The garden centre includes a well-stocked DIY department with Dulux paint mixing alongside a full range of garden essentials, outdoor pots and locally sourced plants. The retail area is set out over two separate buildings, with additional covered outdoor space and extensive outdoor selling areas. There is also a homewares store and café with parking for at least 38 vehicles.
Noyces Home and Garden Centre is situated within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, beside the Kingsbridge and Salcombe Estuary and at the mouth of Bowcombe Creek. Its location on the edge of the busy market town of Kingsbridge means that Noyces is a well-loved retail destination serving the whole of the South Hams district. The business is directly accessed from the A379 which links Dartmouth and Torcross through to Salcombe, and offers excellent opportunity for passing trade.
The South Hams area is hugely popular with both second home-owners and tourists. The community of Kingsbridge has an excellent secondary school, a large primary school, a wide variety of independent businesses, supermarkets, a filling station, and a number of pubs and restaurants.
Chris Sweeney, Director in the Leisure and Trade Related team at Savills, says: “This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a profitable business with further development and growth opportunities.”
Darlac, the cutting tools expert, has secured a distribution deal with one of the UK’s largest garden centre retail chains, Blue Diamond...
Darlac, the cutting tools expert, has secured a distribution deal with one of the UK’s largest garden centre retail chains, Blue Diamond.
Blue Diamond has recently acquired Mere Park in Newport and Blackdown Garden Centre in Taunton. The group has also announced plans to build two new garden centres in Elvedon, Norfolk and at Scotch Corner, swelling its network to 41 garden centres.
Working with Blue Diamond, Darlac has produced bespoke stands for the stores that reflects the quality of experience Blue Diamond wanted for its customers as well as creating a series of retail display stands to showcase Darlac’s tools beautifully.
All stores are to carry the Darlac ‘two-metre’ cutting range of tools and includes best sellers such as the DP400 Lightweight Shear and the DP1030A Expert Bypass Pruner, where the range focusses on the cutting tool needs of hobby gardeners with pruners, snips, shears and loppers to cover a wide range of tasks in the garden. The ‘three-metre’ range features additional tools for heavier-duty jobs, with tools such as the DP1583 Expert Geared Anvil Tree Pruner and the DP1570 Expert Giant Telescopic Pole that are suitable for tree maintenance work in the garden.
Taylor Baines, category manager - gardening, of Blue Diamond Group, said: “We are really excited about this partnership; we were looking to offer a more premium range of tools to our customers and this partnership ticks all those boxes.
“The history of the brand and the company’s values, coupled with the excellent quality you get with the Darlac tools range made this a really easy choice. We wanted an experience that went beyond ‘just another stand’ in stores to give our customers a richer educational and shopping experience. The resulting creativity that has been applied to the retail displays has been a great collaboration between the two companies that our customers are going to love.”
Chris Owen, general manager for Darlac, said: “We’ve been working with Blue Diamond on this deal for a while, and are really pleased to be able to announce the partnership as we head into 2022.
“With an increase in interest in gardening during Covid19, many people who were new to gardening during 2020 have stuck around, carrying on their new-found interest in gardening post-lockdown.
“Having Darlac available in Blue Diamond garden centres across the UK is a key partnership for us that will help us more readily meet increased consumer demand for our tools.”
Garden centres have been working with their local communities to help with appeals for Ukraine refugee supplies.
Garden Centres have been working with their local communities to help with appeals for Ukraine refugee supplies and some are even creating their own fundraising events and activities including donating all proceeds from sales of Peace roses at ISE Garden Centre near Kettering.
Elsewhere, the response to an appeal at Baytree Garden Centre was so great they had to move the collection point to Weston Church, where a team of volunteers were on hand to sort the donations into various lots prior to shipping.
At Okells Garden Centre, top picture, they have promised to match donations up to £5,000 to double the impact.
And Bonnetts Garden Village is sending a lorry load of aid to Ukraine.
There are only days left for you to make your submission to the DEFRA consultation that could result in the biggest government intervention in gardening and garden retailing we have ever seen...
There are only days left for you to make your submission to the DEFRA consultation that could result in the biggest government intervention in gardening and garden retailing we have ever seen.
At the HTA orgainsed "Town Hall" events last week we were advised that numbers of submissions do count, so now really is the time for all individuals involved in garden retailing to make sure their views are included in the consultation.
It takes about half an hour to complete the survey and you'll be asked about your views on:
A voluntary approach to ending the use of peat in Amateur Horticulture
Mandatory reporting of the volume of peat sold
Banning the sale of peat
A point of sale bag charge for the purchase of any growing media bag containing peat
Once completed you then receive a copy of your submission.
At the HTA event last week, The Growing Media Association said it would be working on key facts, such as the carbon footprints of different types of compost by this summer. As this vital information will not be available for this DEFRA cosultation it is important that as many views are heard in the meantime, that's where you come in.
As well as completing the survey as part of the consultation we are being urged to write to our MP's to make them aware of the situation.
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.
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.
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.
GUANORGANICS – exclusively suppliers of guano rich fertiliser - is seeking new retail trading partners in the United Kingdom. Here, we take a look at the history of the company and exactly what this amazing country has to offer the British consumer market – and it’s a lot more than just our beloved Paddington Bear!
Clare Matterson CBE will be the next Director General of the RHS, the UK’s largest gardening charity. Clare, currently Executive Director, Engagement at the Natural History Museum (NHM), will join the RHS on Monday 9 May 2022.
