In This Issue
That was the year that was... 2022
Surprise in store for Hogewoning customers at Harrogate Christmas & Gifts show
Barnsfold Nurseries acquired by D.J. Squire & Co Ltd
Caroline Owen takes over as chair of the Tillington Group
New DIY sector set to create opportunities for retailers
Polar explorer to talk about endurance and resilience at GCA conference
GCA to welcome British farmer and organic veg entrepreneur at annual conference
Bents helps to bring smiles to local children
Positive catering sales continue in November
Kelkay partner with Brett Landscaping
Zest smashes annual fundraising target
Grow with The Real Soil Company
Garden centre delivers second ambulance to Ukraine
Spring Fair launches its new ‘The Little Black Book’
Clever Pots makes grow-your-own easier than ever at Spring Fair 2023
Alan Roper Interview in GTN's December Sustainability Directory Issue, read on-line here
Get your copy of GTN Xtra
Discover the new Gold Medal winners
BPOA conference to return as live event
The best of last week's
Sad news to end the year, Paul Cooling has died
More sad news at the end of 2022. Alastair Jackson of Poplars Garden Centre has died.
Garden centre manager Gavin Cooper dies suddenly
November garden centre sales down -11% on same period last year
TV doctor films at Tong Garden Centre
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week
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Email trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk or call the GTN News team on 07973 504214

 

 

 

 

GTN October 2022 Issue. To view a digital version click here

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


That was the year that was... 2022

Happy New Year to you all.  We hope you all had a good and safe festive period and are now looking forward to an exciting 2023. Since New Year the GTN gnomes have been beavering away to compile the Top 100 stories read in GTN Xtra last year as our review of 2022...

Tributes to Peter Seabrook was the most-read story in GTN Xtra in 2022.


Happy New Year to you all.  We hope you all had a good and safe festive period and are now looking forward to an exciting 2023.

 

Since New Year the GTN gnomes have been beavering away to compile the Top 100 stories read in GTN Xtra last year as our review of 2022.

 

Sadly, the list is dominated by the passing of so many distinguished and much-loved figures in the garden centre industry but in some ways it’s another tribute to the service they gave to the trade.

 

We've thoroughly enjoyed bringing you all the news, views and ideas during 2022 and we hope you found GTN Xtra both useful and informative.

 

 

Top 100 most-read stories in GTN Xtra during 2022
(click on the item to read the story)

  1. Tributes to Peter Seabrook who died on Friday 14th January – Issue 3
  2. Sad news to end the year, Paul Cooling has died – Issue 49
  3. New faces in Azpects’ sales team – Issue 13
  4. Plant food gets a Boost – Issue 17
  5. Ian Boardman dies suddenly – Issue 39
  6. Petface partners with Greenfingers charity – Issue 29
  7. Van Hage garden centres bought by Blue Diamond – Issue 44
  8. Trio of liquid feeds joins specialist range – Issue 29
  9. Alastair Jackson of Poplars Garden Centre has died – Issue 49
  10. Private equity backed management buyout at Mr Fothergill's – Issue 8
  11. Established garden centre business put up for sale – Issue 39
  12. Adrian Hall garden centres close as parent company ceases trading – Issue 33
  13. Blue Diamond buys Blackdown Garden Centre – Issue 2
  14. New owners at Coolings – Issue 11
  15. Hillier grows to 22 garden centres with acquisition of Rosebourne – Issue 44
  16. Alan Roper Interview in GTN's Sustainability Directory Issue – Issue 49
  17. Garden centre manager Gavin Cooper dies suddenly – Issue 49
  18. Westland win record breaking eight awards at the GIMA's 2022 – Issue 42
  19. GTN’s Greatest Christmas Award winners revealed – Issue 6
  20. Fire at Blue Diamond’s Grosvenor Garden Centre – Issue 24
  21. East Bridgford, Grosvenor, Nailsworth & Matlock scoop awards – Issue 11
  22. Barton Grange and The Old Railway Line are big GCA winners – Issue 7
  23. British Garden Centres buy Timmermans to make it 59 – Issue 7
  24. Choice Marketing celebrates 20 years – Issue 40
  25. Sales boom this spring at British Garden Centres – Issue 13
  26. Blue Diamond aiming for £300m turnover by 2023 – Issue 2
  27. Sale of horticultural peat to be banned by 2024 – Issue 34
  28. Blue Diamond reports £39.5m profits as turnover grows to £255m – Issue 20
  29. Dobbies records its best trading performance – Issue 47
  30. The future looks bright for AMES UK – Issue 33
  31. Hillier takes over Ducks Hill Garden Centre site – Issue 3
  32. Dobbies Tewkesbury - See GTN Xtra's full photo tour – Issue 44
  33. Changes at the top for Bon Bon’s – Issue 45
  34. Garden centre owners announce plans for new site – Issue 46
  35. Graf UK win at GIMA Golf Day – Issue 24
  36. Webbs take over at Millets Farm – Issue 29
  37. Horticultural April Fools create thousands of social media views – Issue 14
  38. Business as usual at Key Essentials after death of Mark Smith – Issue 25
  39. LANDMANN BBQs acquired by global giants Social Chain – Issue 23
  40. GCA conference postponed – Issue 2
  41. Devon garden centre on the market for £1.5 million – Issue 10
  42. Planning permission granted for £10m Dobbies store – Issue 12
  43. Doors Open, at Dor’s Garden – Issue 17
  44. Peter Burks takes over as GCA Chief Executive – Issue 46
  45. Garden industry pays tribute to the Queen – Issue 36
  46. Garden Re-Leaf Day gets the season off to a sunny start – Issue 12
  47. Trebaron Blackpool becomes BGC's 60th centre – Issue 9
  48. Roller coaster ride for Christmas 2022 – Issue 48
  49. GCA Chief Executive has resigned – Issue 33
  50. The Greener Gardening Company set to close – Issue 36
  51. Peter Seabrook funeral arrangements – Issue 7
  52. Jubilee dampens sales – Issue 24
  53. Bosworths plan for move to new site – Issue 7
  54. Garden Centres thinking outside of the box – Issue 2
  55. Frosts’ Brampton becomes Notcutts 19th centre – Issue 31
  56. Hatton makes it a hat-trick for British Garden Centres – Issue 14
  57. Notcutts looks ahead after a strong performance in 2021/22 – Issue 33
  58. Growing Media Taskforce disappointed with immediate ban – Issue 34
  59. Large Fire at Longacres Shepperton – Issue 1
  60. Normal + 28% as the season gets growing – Issue 13
  61. 36 pages of Garden Centre Christmas Greatness – Issue 8
  62. Vote now for the Best Buyers of 2022 – Issue 26
  63. Garden Centres help with Ukraine Appeals – Issue 10
  64. Bumper Glee Preview in GTN June issue – Issue 25
  65. February starts with big wins for garden centres – Issue 7
  66. Growing Media Taskforce response to plans to ban sale of peat at retail – Issue 9
  67. Evergreen Garden Care launches ‘keep growing’ campaign – Issue 15
  68. Sproutl to close – Issue 40
  69. Christmas sales up 24% in first three weeks of October – Issue 43
  70. Frosts in discussion with Webbs over sale of Millets Farm – Issue 25
  71. Peter Seabrook laid to rest on Galleywood Common – Issue 9
  72. Four Oaks announces sad passing of Richard Harding – Issue 4
  73. Cherry Lane acquires Retford & Gainsborough Garden Centre – Issue 7
  74. Blue Diamond open The Parlour Edwardian restaurant in Spalding – Issue 15
  75. Vote now for the Best Buyers of 2022 – Issue 25
  76. Horticulture industry responds to ending retail sale of peat – Issue 12
  77. Shaping a New Future at Coolings – Issue 17
  78. Westland Boost TV Advert goes live for Easter – Issue 15
  79. Mirfield acquisition grows British Garden Centres to 62 – Issue 42
  80. GTN Interviews: Steve Morgan, Zest & Nick Rubins, Cherry Lane – Issue 22
  81. Two new members for Choice Marketing – Issue 31
  82. Late August sales get back to 2020 levels – Issue 35
  83. Plans announced for new garden centre development – Issue 3
  84. A good year for British Garden Centres as group turnover grows – Issue 40
  85. Amy Hart – National Account Manager – Issue 44
  86. The show goes on...Harrogate Christmas & Gift – Issue 2
  87. Record-breaking Floral Thursday for Greenfingers – Issue 27
  88. £2m plus reward for Choice members – Issue 3
  89. New garden centre opens near Lincoln – Issue 4
  90. Wear something floral as tribute to Peter Seabrook – Issue 8
  91. Meadow View Stone 2022 – Issue 8
  92. Thank goodness for gardening – Issue 20
  93. A right royal boost for sales at garden centres – Issue 21
  94. Memorial service for Ian Boardman – Issue 42
  95. Who are the best buyers in the garden market? – Issue 20
  96. Brian Evans, former Chairman of Wyevale, dies aged 78 – Issue 41
  97. The Greatest Christmas Awards judges are on their sleighs – Issue 45
  98. Dobbies CEO interview in GTN's November GIMA Roll of Honour issue – Issue 45
  99. We love gardening – Issue 8
  100. The Big Reveal: GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards – Issue 6

 

Surprise in store for Hogewoning customers at Harrogate Christmas & Gifts show
GTN Xtra Promotion

Hogewoning is known for many years for his wide variety for products made of natural materials like wreaths and garlands made with cones in different styles and colours...


 

Hogewoning is known for many years for his wide variety for products made of natural materials like wreaths and garlands made with cones in different styles and colours.

 

Daan Hogewoning said: “We have evergreen natural looking Christmas product which we renew every year.  Customers know that and the market is still looking out for this natural-country looking trend, which never disappeared from the market.

 

“Hogewoning has the ability to present this kind of products every year in a good balance for price and quality.

 

“This year we will surprise our customers with new articles in this field, which we are showing at the next trade fair Harrogate Christmas & Gifts on 15-18 January.

 

“Hogewoning has a good webshop where you will find a wide choice of products which we pre-sell.

 

“Because we have now our own company in the UK we are able to give good service to the garden centre trade in the UK.  

 

“Transport and duty are included in our prices.’

 

Browse the webshop by clicking here or the button (above left).

 

For further enquiries email daan@hogewoning.com

Barnsfold Nurseries acquired by D.J. Squire & Co Ltd

Squire’s Garden Centres has announced that D. J. Squire & Co. Ltd has acquired the shares of Barnsfold Nurseries Limited with effect from 1 January 2023...


Squire’s Garden Centres has announced that D. J. Squire & Co. Ltd has acquired the shares of Barnsfold Nurseries Limited with effect from 1 January 2023.  

 

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres, comments: “Barnsfold Nurseries is a business we have worked with and admired for many years.  We very much respect the leadership team at Barnsfold as well as the commitment, knowledge and experience of the whole team. The great plants they grow speak for themselves. We look forward to working with everyone at Barnsfold as, together, we enter a new phase in the history of both companies.

 

“There is great synergy between the two companies – two long-established horticultural businesses with shared values.  We are certain that, together, both businesses will prosper and thrive.”   

 

John Turner, Barnsfold Nurseries Limited, comments: “We have a longstanding relationship with Squire’s as a supplier to their sixteen garden centres.  We are delighted that they have become the new owners of the business. We are confident in the next chapter, that being part of the Squire’s Group will bring exciting opportunities to grow together in the future.”

 

Barnsfold Nurseries Limited will remain a separate company as a wholly owned subsidiary within the Squire’s group. As such it will continue to be business as usual at Barnsfold. The existing Barnsfold management team remains in place and the company is committed to fulfilling all its obligations to its customers going forward and indeed expanding its customer base further in the future.

 
Caroline Owen takes over as chair of the Tillington Group

Caroline Owen, Managing Director of Scotsdales Garden Centres, has taken over the chairmanship of the Tillington Group from Dennis Espley who retired last year, with James Evans from Ruxley Manor Garden Centre becoming Vice Chairman...


Caroline Owen, Managing Director of Scotsdales Garden Centres, has taken over the chairmanship of the Tillington Group from Dennis Espley who retired last year, with James Evans from Ruxley Manor Garden Centre becoming Vice Chairman. 

 

Caroline said: “It is a real privilege to become Chairman of the Tillington Group. This is an exciting time for Tillington, as there have been a few changes recently within the group and it has given us an opportunity to positively reassess how we take the group forward. 

 

“I look forward to working with the group to strengthen and improve what we are doing and ensure that we are ready for the inevitable challenges and opportunities that lay ahead”. 

 

Membership of The Tillington Group comprises the following garden centres: Alton, Bents, Frosts, Hayes, Otter, Ruxley Manor, Scotsdales, Squires, Webbs and Whitehall and the 39 centres had a combined turnover net of vat of over £250m in 2022. 

 

Van Hage recently left the group on being purchased by the Blue Diamond Group.

New DIY sector set to create opportunities for retailers

Glee is celebrating the addition of a brand-new DIY sector at the 2023 show (27th-29th June, NEC Birmingham), which will enable garden retailers to capitalise on emerging trends, whilst helping to expand both their offering and appeal, as customers seek to tackle more DIY projects to improve their outdoor spaces...


Glee is celebrating the addition of a brand-new DIY sector at the 2023 show (27th-29th June, NEC Birmingham), which will enable garden retailers to capitalise on emerging trends, whilst helping to expand both their offering and appeal, as customers seek to tackle more DIY projects to improve their outdoor spaces.

 

Keen to keep costs down, and inspired by online influencers, consumers are more willing to take on DIY projects to update their home without the expense of calling in a professional. The lines between indoor and outdoor spaces are becoming increasingly blurred and, with close to 41,000 Instagram posts bearing the hashtag #gardendiy and Google Trends also reporting a spike in searches for the same phrase, Glee recognises there is a huge opportunity for garden retailers to provide customers with everything they need to complete a job, all under one roof.

 

This is the main driver behind the show’s decision to incorporate an exclusive new DIY sector at the 2023 event, enabling buyers to browse a quality home improvement offer and discover products and suppliers that could sit happily within their store and create real sales opportunities.

 

Expanding your offer

Garden retailers aren’t new to diversification by any means but, perhaps, the idea of stocking a DIY range might not have crossed your mind or seemed an obvious choice. In fact, many DIY ranges complement garden lines and the kind of outdoor projects your customers may be undertaking, meaning there is a far greater crossover and more chances for linked sales than you’d think.

 

A consumer looking to put up a shed or fencing will need tools to do so, as well as wood treatment or paint to complete the job. If they don’t already own the necessary tools, including a hammer, screwdriver, measuring tape, or spirit level, they will have to go to another retailer to pick these things up. If you have a captive audience already in your store, why send them elsewhere, when you could increase basket spend by stocking some of these items? If you already offer outdoor structures, fencing, or decking, think of the sales potential by being able to flag up associated DIY products that you also have in stock ready to take away that day, to help customers get the job done.

 

Maximising your buying time

For those garden retailers who already carry and have success with DIY lines, it can be a drain on resources to take time out of the business to visit other exhibitions to source new products and place orders. Glee wants to be a one-stop-shop for all your purchasing needs, helping you to enhance or expand your offer as you see fit in order to maximise the opportunities in the marketplace, as well as your time.

 

DIY is being launched as a brand-new sector to the show, alongside an extended Home, Gift and Clothing area, in order to bring together a rich and diverse mix of product that could prove a natural fit for your business.

 

Glee’s Event Director, Matthew Mein said of the new DIY sector: “Glee has always been about ‘newness’, bringing our visitors innovation and arming them with the right products to capitalise on market opportunities.  Whatever you call it – home improvement, home enhancement, or simply do it yourself (DIY) – Glee believes this broad spectrum of products and suppliers has the potential to, not only help garden retailers create further add-on sales to enhance their current offer, but to also improve convenience for their customers and stand out in their minds as a destination for their outdoor DIY needs. We are extremely excited to be welcoming a DIY sector to Glee and hope our visitors get real benefit from its presence.”

 

Find out more

Glee is the UK’s leading garden retail show, focusing on building year-round profits for buyers and suppliers within the core gardening and outdoor leisure product categories.  To keep up to date on the latest Glee news visit www.gleebirmingham.com.  To enquire about exhibiting at Glee 2023, which will take place June 27th – 29th, please call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

 
Polar explorer to talk about endurance and resilience at GCA conference

The only woman in the world to have skied across Antarctica alone will be talking about personal resilience and leadership in uncertainty at the Garden Centre Association’s annual conference in Blackburn this month (January 22-25)...


The only woman in the world to have skied across Antarctica alone will be talking about personal resilience and leadership in uncertainty at the Garden Centre Association’s annual conference in Blackburn this month (January 22-25).

 

Felicity Aston MBE, who is a climate scientist, polar explorer, expedition leader and record-breaker will be the headline speaker at the conference on Tuesday, January 24.

 

Tammy Woodhouse, GCA Chairman, explains: “We are thrilled to have Felicity closing our annual conference in 2023. She is a truly inspirational woman, who, as well as being the only woman in the world to have skied across Antarctica alone, was also the first person in the world to have traversed the continent purely by muscle power.

 

“During more than 20 years of undertaking challenging expeditions in the world’s most extreme environments, she has instigated, organised and led the first British women’s team to cross the Greenland icesheet, the world’s largest and most internationally diverse women’s team to ski to the South Pole, and a team of women from across Europe and the Middle East that together skied to the North Pole.

 

“We couldn’t think of anyone better to talk to and inspire our members attending our conference.

 

“During her presentation, she will be reflecting on her expeditions as both physical and psychological journeys. She believes that great achievements do not require innate outstanding capacity, but rather the building of personal confidence and mental resilience. We can’t wait to welcome her to our conference.”

 

Felicity has published four books about her expeditions, co-presented two BBC documentaries, and has been featured in many top media publications including National Geographic, Vanity Fair and Marie Claire. She is a Fellow of both the Royal Geographical Society in London and The Explorers’ Club in New York and has an MBE, as well as the Polar Medal for services to exploration.

 

The GCA represents nearly 200 garden centres nationwide.

 

Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

 

The GCA’s annual conference will be held at the Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel and Spa in Blackburn, Lancashire from January 22 until 25, 2023 and places can be booked via www.gca.org.uk.

 

The conference pages on the website will be updated with speaker announcements and full listings as the programme develops and exact timings are confirmed. There is also a dedicated email for any queries members, and those wishing to book for the event, may have: conference@gca.org.uk.

 

Felicity Aston MBE will be speaking to attendees on Tuesday, January 24.

 

For further information, please visit www.gca.org.uk.

GCA to welcome British farmer and organic veg entrepreneur at annual conference

Guy Singh-Watson will share his expertise on organic farming and ethical business at the Garden Centre Association’s annual conference in Blackburn this month (January 22-25)...


 

Guy Singh-Watson will share his expertise on organic farming and ethical business at the Garden Centre Association’s annual conference in Blackburn this month (January 22-25).

 

The founder and creator of Riverford, an organic farm and UK-wide organic vegetable box delivery company, will discuss topics covering business, entrepreneurship and sustainability on Tuesday, January 24. 

 

Tammy Woodhouse, GCA Chairman, explains: “We’re delighted that Guy Singh-Watson will be joining us on the Tuesday, which is always our day for strategy. He champions a more human and imaginative approach to business and will be sharing why he believes this to be the winning formula for companies today.

 

“During the past 30 years, Guy has taken Riverford from one man and a wheelbarrow delivering homegrown organic veg to friends, to a national veg box scheme delivering to around 80,000 customers a week.

 

“We hope that it will be really inspiring for our attendees to hear how he combined elements of business, sustainability and the environment, to create a positive and ethical company, and how that works with our members’ long-term goals, while being commercially viable too.”

 

Tired of meetings, brands and the assumption that greed is our predominant motivation, Guy converted Riverford to employee ownership in 2018. He used the proceeds to buy a small farm and return to growing organic vegetables.

 

Tammy adds: “Guy is an advocate of using business to shape a part of the world, however small, to be kinder, more considerate and sustainable; more like the world most of us want to live in.

 

“His weekly newsletters connect people to the farm with refreshingly honest accounts of the trials and tribulations of producing organic food, and the occasional rant about farming, ethics and business issues he feels strongly about.

 

“Guy will be joining our other keynote speakers on the Tuesday to discuss business, the economy and challenges faced by companies in the future. Over the years garden centres have become real community hubs, so we’re delighted that Guy will be sharing his ideas about how firms can become even more personal to the areas they serve.”

 

The GCA represents nearly 200 garden centres nationwide.

 

Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

 

The GCA’s annual conference will be held at the Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel and Spa in Blackburn, Lancashire from January 22 until 25, 2023 and places can be booked viawww.gca.org.uk.

 

The conference pages on the website will be updated with speaker announcements and full listings as the programme develops and exact timings are confirmed. There is also a dedicated email for any queries members, and those wishing to book for the event, may have: conference@gca.org.uk.

 

Guy Singh-Watson will be speaking to attendees on Tuesday, January 24.

 

For further information, please visit www.gca.org.uk.

Bents helps to bring smiles to local children

Action for Children is dedicated to improving the lives of children and young people in the UK and just before Christmas the charity’s regional team visited Bents Garden & Home to collect the many gifts that had been left at the Centre’s dedicated collection point...


 

Action for Children is dedicated to improving the lives of children and young people in the UK and just before Christmas the charity’s regional team visited Bents Garden & Home to collect the many gifts that had been left at the Centre’s dedicated collection point. 

 

The charity collected gifts, including £1000 worth of toys and treats donated by Bents, all of which will help bring smiles to children and young people in the Warrington area. 

 

Action for Children provides practical and emotional care and support for children and young people throughout the year, and at Christmastime it focuses on spreading a little happiness with its Secret Santa campaign.  Bents has for several years hosted a dedicated gift collection point, where customers and colleagues have been able to donate their new and unwrapped gifts. 

 

Said Charlotte Nichols MP who joined the team for the occasion: “Christmas is a time for charity, for giving and for sharing so it’s great to see so much generosity from our local community.  Every donation, big or small, will make a huge difference, and will help bring a little happiness to so many young lives in our local area this Christmas.”

 

Matthew Bent, Managing Director at Bents Garden & Home added: “A big thank you to all of our customers and colleagues who have donated gifts.  At this time of year and now more than ever we want to help spread kindness to others and are extremely proud to have been able to support Action for Children once again.”

 

Kerry Roe-Ely, regional manager for the North West at Action for Children, said, “We are so grateful for the generosity of Bents Garden & Home and their customers. Because of you, many children will wake up on Christmas morning to a wonderful surprise.”

Positive catering sales continue in November

Catering was the bestselling department at garden centres across the country for the second month in a row during November, according to the Garden Centre Association’s Barometer of Trade report. Another good performing category was food sales via food hall and farm shops, which was up 2.84%...


 

Catering was the bestselling department at garden centres across the country for the second month in a row during November, according to the Garden Centre Association’s Barometer of Trade report.

 

Sales were up 14.74% compared to the same month last year (2021). Another good performing category was food sales via food hall and farm shops, which was up 2.84%.

 

GCA Chairman, Tammy Woodhouse, explains: “For the second month in a row, we’ve enjoyed positive catering sales, but once again, this is compared to the same month in 2021, when we were all living under the strain of Covid still, so may have been unable to get out and about as much as we usually would.

 

“November was a much warmer month than usual this year, which meant footfall was positive, however sales in traditional categories are down compared to 2021. Warmer weather may potentially have put people off thinking about Christmas as they enjoyed more time out in their gardens

 

“Hard landscaping sales were down -31.42%. Clothing sales were up 0.76%.”

 

Houseplant sales were down -6.85%, outdoor plant sales were down -19.5% and seed and bulb sales were down -8.12%.

 

Sales in garden sundries were down -16.51%, furniture and barbecue sales down -32.49% and pets and aquatic sales were down -9.95%.

 

Tammy added: “Gift sales were down -11.72% and Christmas sales were also down -14.43%, however we expect this be all change once the December figures come in.”

 

Overall sales for the month were down -6.89% with a year-to-date variance of -3.65%.

 

The GCA BoT reports are compiled using actual sales figures and provide an up-to-date trading position statement. They are made available mid-month following the end of the prior month after all member garden centres have submitted their results.

 
Kelkay partner with Brett Landscaping

Already considered one of the UK’s leading aggregate brands, Kelkay’s star is about to shine a little brighter following the confirmation of its new partnership with Brett Landscaping and Building Products to support its paving offering...


 

Already considered one of the UK’s leading aggregate brands, Kelkay’s star is about to shine a little brighter following the confirmation of its new partnership with Brett Landscaping and Building Products to support its paving offering.

 

In a move to improve paving quality and consistency, Kelkay is moving away from in-house production. Instead, the brand will utilise the expertise of a Brett Landscaping’s manufacturing facilities based at Pocklington near York.

 

With a proven track record and state of the art manufacturing processes, the appointment of Brett Landscaping marks a pivotal moment for the Kelkay brand. Not only can the team at Brett deliver improved product quality and consistency, but more importantly the manufacturing abilities and attention to detail that is synonymous with Brett Landscaping will pay dividends for Kelkay’s retail customers as aftersales issues, breakages and stock availability will be vastly improved.

 

Additionally, this new partnership will also work to futureproof Kelkay’s paving offering as the experience that Brett Landscaping brings to the table will bring innovation to the fore. This access to innovation – whether material, design, manufacturing processes or improved sustainability – will help Kelkay to drive exciting growth within the paving category.

 

Talking about the new partnership, Paul North, AMES UK Managing Director said: “At AMES and within the Kelkay we always strive for excellence, and when we recognise a solution that will deliver this in spades, we know we must grab it with both hands.

 

“Our previous set up worked but we knew we could do better and that our customers needed us to do better in a saturated marketplace shaped by discerning consumers. With Brett Landscaping we can offer increased confidence in Kelkay’s paving offering both now and long into the future. All of this is being achieved without any interruption to supply and with the same sales support as retailers have come to expect from the Kelkay team. It’s important to note that all of this was also completed without any redundancies, instead the previous manufacturing team have been redeployed elsewhere within our business.

 

Paul concluded by saying: “This new partnership is an exciting milestone for the Kelkay brand and its paving ranges, as well as our customers and the end consumer.”

 

Echoing Paul’s comments were that of Richard Baldry, Managing Director of Brett Landscaping. He said: “We are delighted Kelkay has chosen to work with Brett Landscaping and to use our manufacturing facilities to help improve the quality and choice of paving available to Kelkay customers.

 

“Our success is built on relationships, and I see this as an important partnership that will allow Kelkay to benefit from our expertise and experience, as well as our investment programme in the facilities designed to improve the sustainability and environmental impact of paving manufacture.”

 

With the Kelkay/ Brett Landscaping partnership now live, updated product are already on their way to Kelkay stockist ahead of the 2023 season. Paving ranges set to benefit from the partnership will include the Abbey, Logstone, Daleside, Wave, Keldale, Real Paving, Random, Wildlife, Ashford, and Hereford designs.

 

Find out more

To find out more about Kelkay’s paving offering as well as its wider aggregate offering please visit www.kelkay.com. The 2023 product catalogue can also be viewed by visiting www.kelkay.com/brochure

 

Further details about AMES UK can be found at https://ames-uk.com/

Zest smashes annual fundraising target

Garden furniture, grow your own and decorative garden structure specialist, Zest has smashed its fundraising target in support of the British Heart Foundation (BHF), its chosen charity for 2022, presenting the BHF with a cheque for £14,500. The original goal was £10,000...


 

Garden furniture, grow your own and decorative garden structure specialist, Zest has smashed its fundraising target in support of the British Heart Foundation (BHF), its chosen charity for 2022, presenting the BHF with a cheque for £14,500. The original goal was £10,000.

 

A presentation took place at the Woodworks Garden Centre, in Mold, which like Zest is part of the P&A Group.  Steve Morgan, Managing Director of Zest commented: “We’re all thrilled to have raised £14,500 for the British Heart Foundation this year. Every year employees throw themselves into fundraising and this year was no exception.  During the year, some employees have also taken part in a CPR training course offered by the British Heart Foundation which was fantastic to see.”

 

From the Manchester marathon and Clwydian Three Peaks challenge to a month-long ‘dechox’ to a quiz night, cake bake and ‘wear red’ day, Zest personnel have put heart and soul into raising money for this worthwhile cause.  The British Heart Foundation helps and supports 340,000 people living with heart and circulatory diseases in Wales.

 

Donna Stokes, fundraising manager for the British Heart Foundation, who accepted the cheque added: A huge thank you to everyone who has made a donation to the British Heart Foundation this year. The money raised will help the BHF fund vital research into heart and circulatory diseases like heart attacks, stroke and vascular dementia, and the risk factors that can cause them, such as diabetes and high blood pressure."

 

Over the last twelve years, Zest employees and their P&A Group colleagues have raised more than £137,000 for a variety of charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith Children’s Hospices, Cancer Research UK, Action for Children, Alzheimer’s Society, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and Meningitis Now.  

 

To donate to the company’s British Heart Foundation fundraising page, please visit www.p-a-group.com/charity.

 

Zest was established in 2005 to enhance people’s outdoor living experience and bring high quality, sustainable timber garden products to garden centres, online retailers, builders’ merchants, and major purchasing groups across the UK. 

 

For further information about Zest’s GYO, decorative and furniture products, visit www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk.

 
Grow with The Real Soil Company

In a year of turmoil there was one brand that garden retailers could trust – The Real Soil Company. Experiencing 92% sales growth YOY and enjoying a growing product portfolio that places the importance of using organic, peat-free topsoil front and centre, 2022 saw The Real Soil Company begin an incredible ‘next chapter’...


 

In a year of turmoil there was one brand that garden retailers could trust – The Real Soil Company. Experiencing 92% sales growth YOY and enjoying a growing product portfolio that places the importance of using organic, peat-free topsoil front and centre, 2022 saw The Real Soil Company begin an incredible ‘next chapter’.

 

Increased sales across the board

As the year closes, The Real Soil Company’s in-house team is currently busy managing pre-season orders, which have far exceeded expectation, as well as fulfilling the reminder of the autumn/winter sales which peaked at 110% growth YOY and its bagged product delivery double in demand.

 

With numbers like this, it’s not hard to see why confidence in the coming season is at a record high. Managing Director, Simon Hedley explains: “As a relatively new brand to the market we were always going to be vying for market share but 2022 has delivered much more than we had hoped for. So much of this success is the fact that we’re offering a product that not only prioritises strong environmental messages but does so on a number of levels without compromising on product quality, usability or results.”

 

Consistency is key

Based in Northamptonshire and backed by a parent company that has decades of experience within the commercial soil industry, The Real Soil Company has been able to capitalise on its success further thanks to its ability to deliver stock when it’s needed, whilst supporting with significant stock holding. This continued access to product has enabled the brand to service client demand both short and long-term.

 

Consistency is also held firm with the product itself. Unlike other topsoil and growing media suppliers, The Real Soil Company’s topsoil products is typically sourced from pre-construction and construction sites. Not only are these topsoils completely natural, organic, and peat-free but they are, in theory, a waste product and not drawn from finite sources. So, whilst surplus to requirements on the construction site, these repurposed soils are a golden opportunity for The Real Soil Company. Representative of what is known as ‘single source’ or ‘as dug’ soils, The Real Soil Company can offer customers (and consumers) greater consistency and complete traceability, as well as ensuring that they always use 100% organic and nutrient rich peat-free soils.

 

A look to 2023

As The Real Soil Company looks to 2023 there are several key milestones already on the horizon, including most notably the official launch of SuperLawn – an innovative all-in-one blend of natural topsoil, soil improver and horticultural sand. Soft launched at Glee 2022 to gauge reaction, it has become apparent that demand for this product is significant.

An industry first, SuperLawn’s triple purpose is being hailed a ‘game changer’ by garden retailers. Stock holding has been ramped up with bagged product on the ground and ready for delivery into garden centres ahead of the start of the lawncare season.

 

The introduction of SuperLawn offers additional benefit for retailers as Simon concludes. He said: “As our product portfolio continues to expand, we are becoming an even more viable option for garden buyers, especially as they can source all their growing media needs from one dedicated supplier. Our clever formulation also means less SKUs, freeing up more floorspace for additional products for increased ROI. For consumers, we’re presenting a brand that looks unique, informs at the point of sale, and deliver results every time. This consumer confidence is already converting into repeat sales and brand loyal shoppers - a benefit retailers won’t want to miss out on.”

 

The Real Soil Company portfolio

SuperSoil

The original SuperSoil from The Real Soil Company has been ‘super charged’ with organic single-source plant-derived materials that are expertly blended with the finest natural topsoil.  This exceptional formula consistently outperforms current market-leading topsoils in its phosphorous, potassium and magnesium content, plus organic matter which improves soil structure, water retention and drought tolerance. SuperSoil is also free of the low-quality inorganic fillers which so many soil brands rely on to bulk out their bags.

 

Vegetable & Fruit Topsoil

Teeming with organic nutrients for optimal plant health, specialist Vegetable & Fruit Topsoil perfectly blends 100% natural topsoil with 100% organic peat-free compost that is PAS100 certified. Entirely free of chemicals or artificial fertilisers, each bag incorporates slow-release nutrients, trace elements and minerals to continually boost plants throughout the growth cycle. Vegetable & Fruit Topsoil will also improve soil type and structure, helping it to retain more water whilst offering better resistance against pests and diseases.

 

SuperLawn

Brand new for 2023, all-in-one SuperLawn is a rich blend of natural topsoil, soil improver and horticultural sand, delivering the ideal ground for perfect garden lawns. Teeming with slow-release nutrients, trace elements and minerals, SuperLawn will improve the soil structure and give lawn grass the best possible start, without the use of artificial fertilisers or added chemicals. As well as opening up more opportunities for peat-free, organic gardening, SuperLawn will help extend the lawncare sales period into autumn.

 

To find out more about The Real Soil Company please visit www.therealsoilcompany.co.uk or email info@therealsoilcompany.co.uk

Garden centre delivers second ambulance to Ukraine

The Pot Place Garden Centre successfully delivered its second ambulance to the border with Ukraine last week (despite the snow) and it was handed over two days later by friends from the Przemysl Ambulance Service...


 

The Pot Place Garden Centre successfully delivered its second ambulance to the border with Ukraine last week (despite the snow) and it was handed over two days later by friends from the Przemysl Ambulance Service. 

 

The garden centre is now focusing on its next project which is to raise enough money to buy what will be the third ambulance to take out to Ukraine in spring along with the fast response paramedic motorcycle.

 

For more information and to donate visit

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ambulance-and-ambulance-bike-for-ukraine

 

The Pot Place Garden Centre

Station Yard,

Plumpton,

Penrith,

CA11 9GT

 
Spring Fair launches its new ‘The Little Black Book’

Spring Fair, the UK’s leading marketplace for wholesale Home, Gift and Fashion which returns to the NEC Birmingham NEC from 5-8 February 2023, has launched this season’s The Little Black Book exclusive show preview packed full of information, insights, and the thousands of exhibitors set to showcase their new products at the greatly-anticipated show...


Spring Fair, the UK’s leading marketplace for wholesale Home, Gift and Fashion which returns to the NEC Birmingham NEC from 5-8 February 2023, has launched this season’s The Little Black Book exclusive show preview packed full of information, insights, and the thousands of exhibitors set to showcase their new products at the greatly-anticipated show. 

 

For a chance to receive one of the limited printed copies of this free go-to-guide for all things happening at Spring Fair delivered straight to your door, register by Sunday 8th January.

 

The Spring Fair visitor experience starts with The Little Black Book, offering an exclusive insight into all things new and noteworthy at the show, a full floorplan, a snapshot of show highlights, a preview of the latest products and an A-Z list of exhibitors being showcased including lots of new names. The handy fold out floorplan at the start of The Little Black Book offers an aerial view of the entire show floor. Take note of the colour-coded sector areas and start to plan your route around the show. Add to your buying wishlist and find key brands in seconds with the A-Z Exhibitor List on page 161. Use the colour-coded key along the side of the page to identify which sector to find an exhibitor in.

Check out the Spring Fair snapshot from page 18 for an exclusive insight on what’s happening at this year’s show. Discover all things new and noteworthy for 2023 including the New Product Showcase, new speakers on the Inspiring Retail Stage and Moda Stage, the Sustainability Product Showcase, plus so much more! Digital copies of The Little Black Book will also be sent to everyone who registers.

 

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

 

As the largest and most accessible “shop for shops”, Spring Fair is the UK’s trusted platform for discovery and innovation, putting the most sought-after products, bright new finds, and industry-leading creative thinkers, under one easy-to-navigate roof whilst giving retailers unparalleled cross-buying opportunities.

 

Spring Fair encompasses 14 sectors within four destinations across 8 halls – Home which includes Living & Décor, Housewares, Everyday, and The Summerhouse, Gift including Christmas, Floral and Seasonal Decorations, and Moda fashion featuring its own Catwalk as well as Jewellery & Watch, Womenswear, Fashion Accessories, and Footwear, and the newly launched responsible sourcing show Source Home & Gift - all offering thousands of much loved and established favourites alongside an array of sustainable and new brands showing for the first time. The show creates a compelling and unmissable platform for buyers to touch, feel, and experience the latest products, trends and innovations. 

 

As the buyers one-stop marketplace for everything new and on-trend for 2023, Spring Fair is the leading home, gift and fashion buying showcase. It runs from 5th - 8th February 2023 at NEC Birmingham. 

 

For further information visit www.springfair.com 

Clever Pots makes grow-your-own easier than ever at Spring Fair 2023

As the UK’s love for grow-your-own and gardening continues unabated, visitors to the forthcoming Spring Fair exhibition (5-8 February, NEC Birmingham) will not want to miss the clever pots team who will debut at the show (Hall 8, stand D60), showcasing everything greenfingered shoppers need to enjoy growing success year after year...


 

As the UK’s love for grow-your-own and gardening continues unabated, visitors to the forthcoming Spring Fair exhibition (5-8 February, NEC Birmingham) will not want to miss the clever pots team who will debut at the show (Hall 8, stand D60), showcasing everything greenfingered shoppers need to enjoy growing success year after year. 

 

From propagation to plant care, decorative pots to ‘sow and grow’ kits, clever pots – as the name suggests – offer innovative solutions that help novice and experienced gardeners to grow in pots no matter the size of their outdoor space. Whether they’re looking to grow vertically in a courtyard, add splashes of colour to balconies, create a herb palace on windowsills or are already a greenhouse queen, clever pots has an exciting and cost-effective creation for every job.

 

Every product in the range is manufactured from 20 – 60% recycled and UV stable material - this means that your clever pots won’t fade even after a summer in the sunshine.

 

For many, the biggest bonuses that comes from using clever pots are the unique solutions that help tackle common gardening pitfalls. From watering solutions that minimise waterlogging or the dreaded holiday plant death, to foolproof ‘sow and grow’ kits designed to deliver delicious herbs and flowers, each product has been cleverly designed to ensure that it not only looks great but works harder than your standard pot or planter.

 

Nicol McGuinness, Senior Brand Manager at clever pots, said: “Clever pots is not only redesigning the basics, but we’re helping to increase consumer confidence. In turn, we’re also providing retailers with products that see customers come back time and again as they look to tackle their next home-growing project and want to ‘complete the look’ with another clever pots product! It’s a win-win for everyone, most of all our gardens!”

Alan Roper Interview in GTN's December Sustainability Directory Issue, read on-line here

In the December 2022 Sustainability Directory Issue of GTN:

  • Blue Diamond buy Van Hage – GTN Interview with CEO Alan Roper
  • So much more than a chair – GTN visits LifestyleGarden
  • Towards net-zero gardening with Southern Trident
  • Ensuring a Peat Free Growing Media future – Glee TV supplier discussion
  • Artisan brushes and brooms from Redecker
  • Apsley Farms - Heating homes and feeding gardens
  • New Sustainable Houseplant Products
  • Saving the planet with Carbon Gold
  • STV’s Sustainability Journey
  • Plant a tree with LOFA in the Lake District
  • GCA Westland Rising Stars – 13 Garden Centre Sustainability projects
  • Lasting Sustainability at Squires
  • GTN’s Sustainability Directory for 2023
  • HTA Column – Finding inspiration in Scotland
  • GIMA Column – Growth is still on the cards for 2023

 
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Discover the new Gold Medal winners

New Approved Novelties and  Gold Medal winners Fleuro Select to be revealed during Livestream on 17th January 2023 at 16.30 hrs (GMT+1)...


 

New Approved Novelties and  Gold Medal winners Fleuro Select to be revealed during Livestream on 17th January 2023 at 16.30 hrs (GMT+1).

 

Cosmos bipinnatus, Geum coccineum, Gypsophila muralis, Helipterum roseum, Heuchera sanguinea, Lavandula angustifolia, Lycopersicon esculentum, Petunia x hybrida, Salvia nemorosa & splendens, Solenostemon scutellaroides, Tropeaolum minus, Zinnia marylandica & elegans and many more... Our Annual Trial was a myriad of innovative plant shapes and exciting colours! 

 

Which entries excelled with unique traits and outstanding garden performance, and convinced the jury to award them with a Gold Medal? Which new varieties were sufficiently innovative and uniform to obtain the Approved Novelty label?

 

Find out first-hand during a short Livestream on 17th January at 16.30 hrs (GMT+1). In a 15-minute programme, we will chase away the winter cold and bring in some summer nostalgia. We will look back at the previous trial year, hear from the Chairman of our Entries & Evaluations Committee Ruud Brinkkemper and our judges, present the Approved Novelties that resulted from this trial and finally reveal the new Gold Medal winners. 

 

Attendance to the Livestream is free of charge. Please register here, you will receive the access link on the morning of the event.

 
BPOA conference to return as live event

The British Protected Ornamentals Association has announced that the annual conference is returning again for 2023 and will once again be held as a live event on 1 February...


The British Protected Ornamentals Association has announced that the annual conference is returning again for 2023 and will once again be held as a live event on 1 February.

 

After a successful virtual event in 2022 the organising committee have put together a fantastic speaker line up for the 2023 event. The speakers will be showcased to delegates live after two years of virtual conferences.

 

Visit the BPOA website to view the speakers announced so far.

 

The NFU have very kindly agreed to host the event at their conference centre, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire.

 

Find out more about the event on 1st February 2023 and pre-conference dinner on 31st January 2023 and register for your tickets via the BPOA website.

 

BPOA Members qualify for a 20% discount, contact us at info@britishornamentals.org to receive the discount code.

 
The best of last week's

If you missed last week's GTN Xtra, below are the most-read stories...


 
Sad news to end the year, Paul Cooling has died

It is with great sadness that the death of Paul Cooling, Coolings Nurseries Ltd, has been announced. Paul recently suffered a massive stroke and lost his fight on the 29th December, with family and friends present...


Paul Cooling 1964 – 2022

 

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Paul Cooling, Coolings Nurseries Ltd. Paul recently suffered a massive stroke and lost his fight on the 29th December, with family and friends present.

 

Paul has been a larger-than-life character in the UK horticulture industry, often present at many trade functions usually sporting his trademark waistcoats and bow ties. In particular he was significantly involved with the GCA and in 2022 held the office of Vice President of the IGCA.

 

Earlier this year Paul had the foresight to set up Coolings Nurseries Ltd (now four centres) as an Employee Ownership Trust under the stewardship of Chairman Gary Carvosso and the Board of Trustees. Gary said “this is a devastating blow, Paul gave so much to Coolings and the Industry. Both have benefited from Paul’s insight and involvement”.

 

The Family have set up a special email address for Paul and hope that friends and colleagues from the industry will use this to send thoughts, memories and tales involving Paul, along with any messages of support for the family at this difficult time. pauls.message.log@gmail.com

 

Funeral details are to follow.

 

Comment from GTN:  Larger than life and a true force for good within the garden industry we can not belive Paul has gone.  What a shock it was to hear the news.  Our thoughts and prayers are with Carol, the family and Paul's close friends along with all involved at Coolings Nurseries Ltd.

 
More sad news at the end of 2022. Alastair Jackson of Poplars Garden Centre has died.

Poplars Garden Centre have announced the news that on the 27th December Alastair Jackson lost his short battle with cancer and died peacefully, at home, surrounded by his family. He will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him...


Poplars Garden Centre have announced the news that on the 27th December Alastair Jackson lost his short battle with cancer and died peacefully, at home, surrounded by his family. He will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him.

 

"Alastair was Garden Centre Manger at Poplars Garden Centre, Toddington for 24 years having previously worked for Wyevale. Alastair was the smiling face of Poplars. Customers and colleagues alike quickly fell under his spell, he was a friend to everyone.

 

"His wife, Mikala, worked by his side, literally by his side, sharing a large desk. They were an incredible couple and an incredible team. There was always laughter wherever Alastair went – his sharp wit and sense of fun on display for all to see. He loved making people laugh and delighted in the company of others. He loved a party and would take every opportunity to have a celebration. Staff social events were legendary – with Alastair conducting proceedings and making sure everyone had a good time. He truly was a people person, a family man in every sense of the word.

 

"Adored by his family, the Poplars family and the wider garden centre industry family. Many of his closest friends he met through work and his loss will be felt across the whole Industry as we mourn his passing. If ever the words “Work Hard, Play Hard” applied to one man – it was Alastair. He was self motivated and had a way of bringing out the best in people, unlocking their potential and in some cases helping them get back on their feet again. He built a talented team that adored him and they are heartbroken that he is no longer with us.

 

"Alastair was not religious and has requested an unattended cremation. A Celebration of his Life will be held at the appropriate time where family, friends, colleagues and friends from across the Industry can come together. How typical of Alastair that his last request is to hold another party."

Garden centre manager Gavin Cooper dies suddenly

Well-respected garden centre manager Gavin Cooper died suddenly on Wednesday, 7 December...


Well-respected garden centre manager Gavin Cooper died suddenly on Wednesday, 7 December.

 

Gavin Cooper was garden centre manager at Orchard Park and before moving to a similar role at Prior Park Garden Centre in Bath.

 

Gavin was also an HTA council member for several years. 

 
November garden centre sales down -11% on same period last year

Overall, garden centre sales in November 2022 were down -11% on November 2021 as the economic situation continues to plague consumers’ minds and the festive season may be adding to financial pressures, according to the HTA market update...


 

Overall, garden centre sales in November 2022 were down -11% on November 2021 as the economic situation continues to plague consumers’ minds and the festive season may be adding to financial pressures, according to the HTA market update

 

Within this figure, garden/gardening sales were down -22% on November 2021 and non-garden/gardening sales were down -7% on the same period. 

 

Meanwhile overall sales in comparison to November 2019, a more ‘normal’ period, were up +17% although the volume of sales were on par indicating the uplift was likely driven by inflationary price increases. Within this, garden/gardening sales were up +17% and non-garden/gardening sales were up +17%. 

 
TV doctor films at Tong Garden Centre

Tong Garden Centre welcomed TV doctor, Dr Amir Khan, and a camera crew to the store, who filmed customers answering questions about visiting their GP...


 

Tong Garden Centre welcomed TV doctor, Dr Amir Khan, and a camera crew to the store

 

After enjoying lunch at The Mazzanine, the team took to the shop floor to ask customers questions about their local GP. 

 

The segment is scheduled to air on ITV on January 12 at 8.30pm.

 

 
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week

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.

For further information contact karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or call 07973504214.

Buy your subscription today and start receiving the GTN Bestsellers charts this week.