Melcourt has achieved improved results across its SylvaGrow® and Sylvamix® ranges following its latest Responsible Sourcing Scheme (RSS) audit. Of the 22 product lines assessed, 14 moved up an entire grade, while the average score across the two ranges improved by 6%. New SylvaGrow® Bulb Compost, assessed by the scheme for the first time, achieved an A grade.

The results reflect Melcourt’s continued work to understand, measure and improve the responsible sourcing credentials of the raw materials used within its growing media.

The Responsible Sourcing Scheme provides a framework for assessing the environmental and social impacts associated with growing media raw materials, helping to provide greater transparency around the ingredients used within growing media and their sourcing.

The latest results follow an extensive data and evidence audit process, involving detailed examination of the ingredients used throughout Melcourt’s SylvaGrow and Sylvamix ranges and their associated supply chains.

Melcourt has been peat-free since day one, with a long-standing commitment to developing responsibly sourced growing media for both retail and professional horticulture. Its SylvaGrow® range is developed for gardeners, while Sylvamix® provides specialist growing media for professional horticulture.

Melcourt continues to support greater transparency and responsible sourcing across the growing media industry, using the Responsible Sourcing Scheme as a framework through which the sourcing credentials of its products can be assessed and communicated.

The latest Melcourt scores are published through the Responsible Sourcing Scheme, where further information about the scheme, its assessment criteria and individual growing media ratings can also be found. https://responsiblesourcing.org.uk/

A new therapeutic garden designed to bring the sights and sounds of nature into the lives of children and families at the James Hopkins Trust in Gloucester officially launched on Friday (2 October), following its transformation from the award-winning ‘Lifted by Birds’ show garden at this year’s RHS Malvern Spring Festival. 

Delivered by Greenfingers Charity and designed by Amie Wheeldon, Jon Pilling and Thomas Cave Saunders, the garden has been thoughtfully recreated as a permanent outdoor space for children with life-limiting conditions, alongside their families and care teams. 

Originally created for RHS Malvern Spring Festival in May, ‘Lifted by Birds’ was inspired by the movement, rhythm and quiet beauty of British birdlife. Its new home at James Hopkins Trust brings the concept to life as a lasting therapeutic landscape, combining naturalistic planting, wildlife habitats and sensory elements to create a space for exploration, relaxation and connection with nature. 

A garden designed for people- and wildlife 

At the heart of the garden is a habitat-led approach to design, creating an environment that actively supports biodiversity from the soil upwards, rather than simply adding wildlife-friendly features as an afterthought. 

The garden incorporates food sources, shelter and habitats for insects, birds and other wildlife, creating a living ecosystem that changes and evolves throughout the seasons. Woodland-edge planting, wetland-inspired areas and a rich mix of plants provide opportunities for wildlife to feed, shelter and thrive. 

For the children and families using James Hopkins Trust, the garden offers an equally important connection to the natural world, providing opportunities for quiet reflection, sensory exploration, mindfulness and play away from the clinical environment. 

Amie Wheeldon, ornithologist and member of the ‘Lifted by Birds’ design team, said: “Attracting birds isn’t about simply putting up a bird feeder- it’s about creating a garden that supports nature throughout the year, starting with healthy soil and providing opportunities for insects and other invertebrates to thrive. Those foundations then support birds and the wider ecosystem. 

“We wanted ‘Lifted by Birds’ to demonstrate how habitat-led design can work beautifully for both wildlife and people. At James Hopkins Trust, the garden now has a very special purpose, giving children and families the opportunity to experience nature, while creating a genuinely valuable habitat for birds and other wildlife.” 

From show garden to lasting legacy 

The transformation of ‘Lifted by Birds’ reflects Greenfingers Charity’s commitment to ensuring show gardens can have a meaningful life beyond the exhibition ground. 

Rather than dismantling the garden permanently after RHS Malvern, Greenfingers worked with the design team and James Hopkins Trust to carefully relocate and reimagine the garden for its new setting. 

The result is a permanent outdoor sanctuary that retains the spirit of the original show garden while responding to the needs of the children and families who will use it. 

Boyd Douglas-Davies, Chairman of Greenfingers Charity, said: "‘Lifted by Birds’ demonstrates exactly why we believe gardens can make such a difference to children and families. What began as a Gold medal-winning show garden at RHS Malvern has now found a permanent home at The James Hopkins Trust, creating a magical space where children and families can enjoy nature, find moments of calm and spend precious time together. 

“We’re particularly delighted that wildlife is at the heart of the garden, creating a space that feels alive and encourages children to explore and connect with nature. We hope ‘Lifted by Birds’ - designed for nature, loved by people - will bring joy, comfort and wonderful memories to families for many years to come.”  

Ann Price Trust Director of James Hopkins comments: We were so honoured to have been chosen by Greenfingers to be the recipient of the ‘Lifted by Birds’ show garden.  We had been talking to Neil (Greenfingers Operations Director) about the development of our back garden and when this opportunity came our way we were absolutely thrilled, even more so once we had the opportunity to see the garden in its full glory at the Malvern Show. 

The team at James Hopkins Trust have loved working with the Neil and the design team, who have done such an incredible job at reimagining the garden into the space available at Kites Corner. 

To see it take shape has been wonderful and we are so excited to be able to officially open our new wildlife garden to our children and their families. It’s such a peaceful space with so much interest, we can’t wait to see how it develops over the coming years, and can’t thank you all enough for providing us with this truly special space. 

Greenfingers Charity has now created more than 70 therapeutic gardens across the UK, providing children and families with nature-filled spaces away from clinical environments. 

The launch of ‘Lifted by Birds’ at James Hopkins Trust marks the latest chapter in Greenfingers’ work to create gardens that deliver lasting benefits for both people and the natural world. 

Find out more 

To date, Greenfingers Charity has created more than 70 hospice gardens across the UK, each one providing a vital, nature-filled space where children and families can spend time together away from clinical environments. 

To find out more, including how to get involved in future fundraising events please visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk. You can also join in the conversation by joining Greenfingers on social media by following @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. 

The Horticultural Trades Association joined political and industry leaders at a business reception during the Labour Party Conference to highlight environmental horticulture's vital contribution to the UK economy.

Organised by the Enterprise Forum in partnership with the HTA, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA), the event at Love Lane Brewery in Liverpool on Tuesday (29 September) examined the challenges businesses face, from rising operating costs to skills gaps.

Championing member businesses and green spaces, the HTA’s Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Jennifer Pheasey, joined the panel discussion, which also explored practical solutions for growth across what’s described as the “everyday economy” – environmental horticulture, retail, hospitality, food and drink production and professional and business services.

The event was chaired by Natascha Engel, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons, with the Rt Hon James Murray MP, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, also speaking on the panel.

Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the HTA, said: “This event was a timely opportunity to highlight to key ministers the crucial role environmental horticulture plays in the UK economy and in building healthier and stronger communities. Our sector contributes £38 billion to UK GDP, supports 722,000 jobs, helps reduce pressure on the NHS, creates employment and strengthens climate resilience.

“But it is an extremely challenging time for our members due to the current cost of doing business. Environmental horticulture businesses need greater cost certainty, less restrictive regulation, improved planning for green spaces, effective cross-governmental working and the swift delivery of an SPS agreement to ease friction at the border. We urge the government to address these priorities in the forthcoming Budget and work with the industry to unlock green growth and enable us to create healthier, wealthier and more environmentally resilient communities.”

During the event, the HTA gave attendees gifts of seasonal seeds so they could continue their horticultural journey at home.

The HTA Policy and Public Affairs team engage with policymakers across the political spectrum to ensure that environmental horticulture’s challenges and opportunities remain on the political agenda. During Party Conference season, the team continues to highlight key sector issues raised by member businesses. 

For more information about the work of the Policy and Public Affairs team at the HTA, visit: hta.org.uk/policy.

Actor, writer and broadcaster Sanjeev Bhaskar has been confirmed as host of the 2026 GIMA Awards, as the industry’s biggest night of celebration moves within touching distance of a complete sell-out.

Taking place on Thursday 12th November at the five-star Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, the GIMA Awards will once again bring the garden retail industry together to celebrate the products, businesses and people helping to shape the sector. And this year, guests will be guided through the evening by one of British comedy and television’s most recognisable faces.

Sanjeev Bhaskar rose to prominence as co-creator and star of the groundbreaking BBC comedy Goodness Gracious Me, before going on to create and star in The Kumars at No. 42. His extensive television career has since encompassed comedy, drama and presenting, with roles including DI Sunny Khan in ITV’s hugely successful Unforgotten. More recently, he joined the line-up for the 20th series of Taskmaster.

Known for combining warmth, wit and sharp observational humour, Sanjeev will take to the GIMA Awards stage for an evening that celebrates excellence across garden product manufacturing and supply.

The countdown to sell-out is on

The host announcement comes as demand for this year’s event reaches its final stages, with only a handful of tickets now remaining. With the event rapidly approaching capacity, GIMA is urging anyone still intending to attend not to leave booking any longer.

GIMA President, Craig Hall said: “The GIMA Awards is always a fantastic opportunity to bring the industry together, and having Sanjeev Bhaskar leading us through the evening is going to make this year’s event even more special. His warmth, humour and experience make him a brilliant fit for the Awards and we’re really looking forward to welcoming him to Celtic Manor.

“The response to this year’s event has also been exceptional. We are now down to the very last handful of tickets, so anyone who has been meaning to book really does need to act now. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.”

A night dedicated to the very best of the industry

The GIMA Awards will once again recognise achievement across a broad range of product, marketing, export, sustainability and business categories, culminating in the presentation of some of the association’s most prestigious accolades, including the coveted Sword of Excellence.

The evening also provides one of the industry’s biggest annual networking opportunities, bringing together suppliers, manufacturers, retailers and partners from across the garden retail sector.

To secure one of the final places and find out more about the GIMA Awards, visit www.gima.org.uk/gima-awards/

Glee 2026 felt like the start of something new. Across three days at the NEC Birmingham, the garden industry came together against a backdrop of significant change: more extreme and unpredictable weather, changing consumer expectations, evolving retail models and an increasing convergence between garden, home, food, gift and lifestyle.

The show responded to those shifts head-on, with its first co-location with Autumn Fair opening Glee to new audiences and giving garden retailers a broader and more diverse marketplace to explore.

For two days, garden retail sat alongside home, gift, fashion and lifestyle, creating opportunities for exhibitors to meet buyers they might not traditionally encounter and for visitors to source across categories that increasingly sit side by side within modern destination garden centres. That wider reach was reflected in the breadth of buyers attending, with major garden-centre groups including Blue Diamond, British Garden Centres, Dobbies, Haskins, Hillier, Notcutts, Squire’s and Webbs joined by names from the wider retail, leisure and visitor-attraction landscape, including B&Q, John Lewis, Aldi, QVC, Robert Dyas, Wickes and The Range.

One buyer summed up the benefit neatly: “Being able to see everything together in one go works really well for me. There are lots of suppliers I already know, plus plenty I haven’t come across before.”

Matthew Mein, Event Director for Glee and Autumn Fair, said: “Glee 2026 feels like the start of an exciting new chapter. Bringing Glee and Autumn Fair together created new opportunities for discovery and opened our exhibitors to buyers they may not traditionally meet, while giving garden retailers access to an even broader range of products and ideas. What has been particularly encouraging is that the positivity translated into meaningful business conversations and very strong commitment to 2027.”

Business being done

The commercial value of the show was evident across the halls. First-time exhibitor Pretty Wild Seeds secured a substantial order on day one and has already booked a larger space for 2027, while Nest for Nature met a major customer within its first hour.

Night Lark used Glee to test the potential for its coverless bedding proposition within garden retail and came away with strong validation from buyers, as well as a Glee New Product Award. “Glee delivered exactly what we had hoped for: meaningful conversations, enthusiastic responses and exciting opportunities to bring Night Lark to more customers,” the company said.

ElectRoad also enjoyed a highly successful garden-retail debut, with its EV charging proposition generating strong conversations around how garden centres can turn their car parks into commercially productive assets. Its success was capped by winning the Glee New Product Award for Retail Services, adding further momentum to a proposition built around additional revenue, customer dwell time and sustainability.

Richard Eppings of ElectRoad said: “Glee exceeded our expectations. We came to the show wanting to start a different conversation with garden retailers about the commercial potential of EV charging, and the response was incredibly encouraging. Winning the New Product Award was a fantastic endorsement, but just as valuable were the conversations we had with retailers who could immediately see how charging can support revenue, dwell time and the wider customer experience.”

Those examples reflected a wider shift in the makeup of the show. Beauty, bedding, gifting, technology, home improvement, EV charging and lifestyle brands increasingly sat alongside tools, plants, growing media and garden care, mirroring the way garden centres themselves are evolving into broader, year-round destinations. For retailers, the opportunity is no longer simply about adding more categories, but finding the right ones to increase dwell time, broaden spend and create stronger reasons to visit throughout the year.

More than a buying show

Glee also reinforced its role as a place to learn as well as buy. Well-attended seminar sessions explored productivity, profitability, staffing, sustainability, water, technology, food and customer behaviour, with contributions from Dobbies, Blue Diamond, Hillier, Squire’s, the National Trust, Wave and the HTA.

The most useful sessions were grounded in practical examples that visitors could take back into their own businesses. Hillier shared how its eight-year sustainability journey had helped reduce energy usage by 23% through its “Switch It Off” campaign, while other sessions explored water management, automation, workforce pressures and the profitability of food operations.

Innovation was also front and centre. Several hundred entries across 19 categories made the New Product Showcase a focal point for buyers looking to explore new ideas, understand what is changing and get an early read on emerging trends. Award winners reported a noticeable influx of interest and increased traffic to their stands after the results were announced, reinforcing the Showcase’s role as both a discovery tool and a useful barometer of new commercial potential.

Where the next opportunities are emerging

Food and hospitality generated renewed energy. The expanded Food at Glee proposition brought together suppliers including Farmhouse Biscuits, Whittard, Beanworks, Brakes, Arrange, Datekin, Easy Jose, iSqueeze and Full Range, with generous sampling helping to attract buyers and spark conversations around cafés, restaurants, food halls and retail ranges.

The bigger discussion, however, was about how garden-centre catering itself is evolving. With food already a significant revenue stream for many operators, attention is shifting towards what the next phase might look like, from better coffee and smarter menu engineering to more sophisticated food halls, automation and better use of restaurant space. There was a definite sense that garden-centre catering may be entering another period of evolution, with retailers looking again at how hospitality can drive footfall, dwell time, loyalty and profit.

Climate adaptation provided another of the show’s clearest future-facing themes. Following another summer of extreme temperatures, exhibitors across Glee launched products designed around hotter, drier and increasingly unpredictable conditions.

Watering and water-saving stood out as perhaps the clearest emerging commercial opportunity, alongside soil health, moisture retention, drought resilience, irrigation and more climate-appropriate approaches to planting. Significantly, the response was not confined to one product category; the same challenge was being addressed from multiple directions across the exhibition, pointing to a wider shift in both product development and retail thinking.

All of this raises an important question for the industry: how will climate change alter the way people approach gardening? If hotter, drier and more volatile seasons become increasingly normal, consumers will need different products, more detailed advice and potentially different plants and garden designs. Glee 2026 suggested that the industry is already beginning to respond, moving from reacting to extreme weather towards designing for it.

Confidence building into 2027

Glee 2026 did not ignore the pressures facing the sector. Costs, labour, consumer behaviour and increasingly volatile weather remain major challenges, and Blue Diamond’s Alan Roper used his keynote to argue that businesses cannot simply wait for easier trading conditions. His emphasis on productivity, technology, people and efficiency chimed with much of what was happening elsewhere at the event, creating an overall picture of a sector focused on adaptation and future-proofing rather than retreat.

Perhaps the strongest endorsement of Glee 2026 came before the event had even finished. More than 68% were booked for Glee 2027 during the show itself, with further commitments following in the days afterwards. There was also a clear trend towards returning exhibitors selecting larger spaces, translating this years’ experience into increased investment for next year.

The co-location will develop further too. Autumn Fair will run from 5th to 8th September 2027, with Glee taking place from 6th to 8th September, meaning both events will operate alongside one another for the full three days of Glee.

For Glee, 2026 marked the start of a new chapter: broader in audience, stronger in commercial opportunity and increasingly aligned with the way garden retail itself is evolving. New buyers, new categories, practical learning, product innovation and strong early rebooking all pointed in the same direction.

Glee did not simply reflect where garden retail is today; it offered a clear view of where the sector could go next.  Find out more: www.gleebirmingham.com

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall has described growing food as an act of self-reliance, a commitment to nature and, for some people, a “quiet act of revolution”.

Speaking to The Underground podcast in a live interview at Glee 2026, the River Cottage founder reflected on a relationship with growing that began when he was six, after his family moved from London to a rented farmhouse in Gloucestershire and inherited a productive vegetable garden.

“The act of growing food is fascinating,” he said. “It’s an act of self-reliance, it’s an act of commitment to nature and, sometimes, it’s a political act.”

Fearnley-Whittingstall said that even for people with busy working lives, spending time growing food can create a stronger sense of connection and independence. “There are people with busy lives, working in jobs in town, who go down to the allotment at the weekend. Even that, I think, is a quiet act of revolution for a lot of people. It’s: ‘This is what I do with my own time. I grow my own food."

He told hosts Phil Wright and Kate Turner that growing and eating were inseparable in his own childhood experience. On the day his family arrived at their Gloucestershire home, they were already picking peas and carrots from the garden left by the previous tenants. His parents encouraged him and his sister to grow beans, beginning a relationship with home-grown food that continued into River Cottage.

Fearnley-Whittingstall argued that everyone can move towards a more direct relationship with food, whether that means growing vegetables, foraging, buying seasonally from British growers, using farm shops or farmers’ markets, or simply paying more attention to where food comes from.

He also connected growing with his recent work on fibre and gut health. Discussing his book High Fibre Heroes, he said: “Looking after the microbiology of the soil and looking after the microbiology of the gut are two parallel ventures, and they go hand in hand.”

The interview moves from Hugh’s first bean plant and the beginnings of River Cottage to organic growing, regenerative horticulture and practical ways to grow at home. He is later joined by Max Mancroft of Seed Revolution to discuss their River Cottage Organic Seeds collaboration and how the seed category can appeal to a new generation of growers.

The full episode, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall: Why Grow Your Own Matters More Than Ever, is available at https://theunderground.fm/podcast/hugh-fearnley-whittingstall-why-grow-your-own-matters-more-than-ever/.

The Underground is the podcast for people working across the garden industry. Hosted by Phil Wright of WrightObara and horticulturalist Kate Turner, it explores garden retail, brands, products, sustainability, marketing and industry change.

The Underground is produced by WrightObara and was the official podcast partner of Glee 2026.

GARDENA challenged their UK team to take on the Yorkshire Three Peaks, a demanding 24 mile walk to summit Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough, all while carrying 5L of water.   

Bringing together colleagues from across the business, the challenge highlighted the power of teamwork, determination and a shared commitment to making a difference. Participants supported one another throughout the demanding trek, demonstrating the collaborative spirit that sits at the heart of GARDENA's culture. 

The challenge was undertaken to raise money in support of UNICEF’s WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) programmes. These programmes help to provide safe water, sanitation and hygiene services for children and communities in more than 100 countries around the world. 

Through flexible funding, GARDENA has been supporting UNICEF’s work for children since 2018, helping to deliver programmes where they are needed most, helping children, families, and communities thrive. 

Around the world, UNICEF works with governments, communities and partners to improve access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene for children. Programmes have, for example, improved water, sanitation and hygiene services in healthcare facilities across Mozambique, expanded sustainable access to clean water and sanitation in rural communities in Nepal and improved access to water, sanitation and hygiene facilities for thousands of schoolchildren in Cambodia. 

GARDENA are passionate about making a positive difference both within the gardening industry and the wider community - growing futures, one drop at a time. 

Sarah Bentham, UK Marketing Manager, said: "Carrying 5L of water throughout the trek allowed the team to reflect on the importance of access to safe water and the challenges faced by children and families who lack it. We're incredibly proud of the team's achievement and grateful for the support we've received so far. 

"There's still time to help us make an even bigger difference." 

GARDENA invites colleagues, customers and industry partners to support the fundraising effort in support of UNICEF's work delivering safe water, sanitation and hygiene services to vulnerable communities worldwide.  

To donate and support our challenge, click the link below: 
GARDENA Supports UNICEF – JustGiving 

Hot on the heels of the incredible success of the Greenfingers Charity’s Kilimanjaro challenge, which has now raised more than £300,000 for the charity, thoughts are already turning to the next big adventure, and supporters are being invited to help choose where it will be.

With so many people feeling inspired by the achievements of the Kilimanjaro team, the Greenfingers Charity is now looking ahead to its next once-in-a-lifetime overseas fundraising challenge for 2028, with two incredible destinations in the running: Machu Picchu in Peru or the Great Wall of China.

Both challenges are planned for October 2028, giving would-be adventurers plenty of time to prepare, train and fundraise before taking on an unforgettable experience in support of the charity’s work creating magical gardens for children and families who spend time in hospices.

Two incredible destinations

The first option would see participants head to Machu Picchu, following a rewarding trek through the spectacular Ancascocha Trail. Surrounded by snow-capped Andes, raging rivers and remote communities, the 10-day adventure promises dramatic scenery and the chance to experience traditional Peruvian culture. The challenge is graded tough.

Alternatively, supporters can vote for the Great Wall of China Discovery, a nine-day challenge taking in approximately 10,000 uneven steps, climbs and mountainous terrain. Participants would trek through the Yan Mountains to Gubeikou before tackling the famous ‘Heavenly Staircase’, with spectacular views across the surrounding landscape. This option is graded challenging.

Whichever destination comes out on top, the aim will remain the same: to bring people together for an extraordinary shared experience while raising vital funds for the Greenfingers Charity.

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at the Greenfingers Charity, said: “Kilimanjaro was such an extraordinary experience, and the fact that it has now raised more than £300,000 for the charity is something we are incredibly proud of. What has been just as special is seeing how inspired people have been by the team. We have had so many conversations with supporters who have said they would love to take on something similar, so it felt like the perfect time to start looking ahead to our next overseas challenge.

“For 2028, we wanted to make the decision together. Machu Picchu and the Great Wall of China are both truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and we cannot wait to see which one our supporters choose.”

Cast your vote now!

Supporters are now being encouraged to cast their vote and help decide whether the Greenfingers Charity heads to Machu Picchu or the Great Wall of China in 2028.

To vote and find out more, visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk

A New Spring Flower Show is coming to the spectacular grounds of Burghley House from 16-18 April, bringing together flowers, plants, food, fashion and talks for a fresh celebration of spring. Visitors will also have the special opportunity to explore Burghley’s South Gardens and lawns, an area of the estate that is usually closed to the public.

Organised by Rockrose Events – the founders of Rutland Flower Show – in partnership with Rutland Nursery, the three-day event will offer visitors an exciting mix of traditional horticulture, beautiful floral displays and inspiring experiences.

At the heart of the show will be a spectacular Grand Floral Marquee in association with Nursery Exhibitors Organisation (NEO).

"We are absolutely delighted to be partnering with the new Burghley Flower Show," said a spokesperson for the Nursery Exhibitors Organisation (NEO).

"NEO has grown significantly and now represents well over 100 nurseries across the industry. Visitors to the show are in for a spectacular experience, as every single nursery showcasing in the Grand Floral Pavilion will be a NEO member.

"This partnership highlights our commitment to showcasing the very best in horticulture. Alongside vibrant Plant Villages showcasing specialist nurseries, growers and a wide selection of plants for the season ahead."

Visitors can also enjoy a unique seated dining experience by Feast and Foliage Rutland, as well as a programme of fashion, talks and inspirational speakers.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Burghley House, the new show promises to be a celebration of the finest in everything that is good about spring.

The Spring Flower Show takes place at Burghley House from 16–18 April 2027. Tickets are now live!

PATS 2026 has been hailed a major success by exhibitors, with the record-breaking show attracting a high-quality audience of pet retailers, buyers and industry professionals with attendance numbers up by 8% on last year.

A total of 6,505 visitors attended the three-day event at NEC Birmingham, compared with 6,021 in 2025, underlining the growing appeal of the UK’s leading Pet and Aquatics Trade Exhibition.

With more than 600 brands showcasing a record number of new products across Halls 3 and 3A, exhibitors reported strong levels of engagement from visitors keen to discover new products, meet suppliers and explore the latest opportunities in the pet market.

There was a real buzz throughout the exhibition, with a host of new features adding an extra dimension to this year’s show and helping to create an upbeat and vibrant atmosphere.

Visitors were wowed by the sheer scale and visual impact of the show, which occupied 20% more floorspace than last year, while a dazzling array of eye-catching stands brought the exhibition halls to life.

Among the new attractions was live entertainment from a saxophonist and caricaturist, while PATS TV took to the show floor to interview exhibitors and visitors and spotlight products and features, with the broadcasts shown live on screens throughout the halls.

The show also had a truly global feel, with new initiatives including the International Pavilion and Hosted Buyers Programme attracting an exciting mix of exhibitors and visitors from around the world.

The Hosted Buyers Programme welcomed senior buyers from international companies including Fressnapf in Germany, Chewy in the US and Pet’s Delight in Dubai. Farah Al Khojai, founder and managing director of Pet’s Delight, summed why the programme had been such a success: “It has been wonderful. It was a great opportunity to see what’s in, what’s new, discover new suppliers and catch up with old ones.”

Other new features also contributed to the success of the show, with Animal Encounters, Aquascaping and an expanded Grooming Zone programme giving visitors valuable insights into a diverse range of topics.

Another highlight was the new Coffee & Connect feature, which provided an informal setting for networking, insight and discussion. Visitors heard about some of the key trends shaping the pet trade before staying on to network over coffee with fellow retailers and buyers.

The show was officially opened by television presenter and farmer Jimmy Doherty, who also walked the show floor interviewing visitors and exhibitors for his new YouTube series. He said: “It’s a great place to come and find out what’s new in the industry, and discover what the new trends are going to be. From the innovation in pet food to aquascaping, it’s just so exciting.”

The New Product Showcase and Awards proved more popular than ever, with the presentation of the awards at the drinks party at the end of day one creating a tremendous atmosphere and providing a memorable highlight for exhibitors and visitors alike.

Hound Hose won the Grooming sector award with its Portable Dog Washer, with founder Maisie Osborne saying: “I’m absolutely thrilled. It still hasn’t sunk in. This is our first ever trade show, and the feedback has been incredible. To win this award genuinely means the world to me. I’m so grateful.”

Danish Design picked up the Cat Accessories & Toys award. Director of sales and operations Rob Newsome said: “We’re very grateful that all our hard work has been rewarded in this way. We’ve won a PATS award in the past, so we realise how important it is to get this recognition.”

The show’s packed programme of features offered plenty for visitors to see and do, while also providing opportunities to boost their professional development. Through an initiative organised in partnership with AMTRA and Vetpol, SQPs (Suitably Qualified Persons) could claim valuable self-reflection CPD (Continuing Professional Development) points simply by attending the show.

Visitors could also make the most of an unrivalled range of special deals from exhibitors, with more offers available this year than ever before. The scale of the savings was reflected in the biggest-ever Red Book, bringing together all the exclusive deals alongside entries for the New Products Showcase.

Retailer Laura Palmer, director of Mutleys Pet Supplies in Norfolk, summed up why PATS remains a must-visit event for the pet trade. She said: “I have visited PATS for 17 years, and truthfully this was the best one yet. The show was busy, and the atmosphere was so upbeat. I loved the PATS Café in the centre of the hall. It was a real pleasure to attend the show – I could easily have stayed for all three days.”

SAVE THE DATE: PATS 2027 takes place at the NEC Birmingham on 21-23 September 2027 and for more information on exhibiting visit patshow.co.uk

The PATS New Product Award winners have been celebrating their success during the record-breaking show. Find out which brands triumphed during the three-day event.

Cat Accessories & Toys

Pet Tee Pee – Danish Design

Director of sales and operations Rob Newsome: “We’re very grateful that all our hard work has been rewarded in this way. We’ve won a PATS award in the past, so we realise how important it is to get this recognition.”

Judges' comments: "This a great quality modern design with a neutral colour that would fit into any home. It’s a great price for a very nice-looking cat bed."

Cat Food Products

Purrform Fresh Deli

The Nutriment Company

Peter Roy, managing director UK: “We believe this product will open-up great opportunities in the cat category for pet shops, so it’s great to know that the judging panel of retailers recognised that fact.”

Judges' comments: "This product comes in a good variety of different flavours. Moving cat food into the fresh food sector is a good innovation."

Dog Food Products (sponsored by Petfellas)

Real Simple

Naturaw

Director Chris Broadbent: “This honour makes all the hard work worth it. It’s a great value, high-quality product, and has been well received.”

Judges' comments: "This product is high-quality with clear labelling and comes at a great price. It’s exactly where the raw market should be heading."

Dog Treat Products (sponsored by Law Print & Packaging)

Pure & Natural Doggy Bag (Natural Chew Variety Pack)

Su-Bridge

Lynne Hopwood, National sales manager: “We are delighted to have won this award in our 50th anniversary year. It was great to hear the judges’ comments, saying that the trade has been waiting for such a product.”

Judges' comments: "The natural feeding world has waited a long time for a mixed treat bag like this – it’s a great product."

Dog Accessories & Toys (sponsored by Paws Wholesale)

Booster Enrichment Toy Range

Fidelis Dog

William Cullen, UK director: “We launched the Booster range at PATS, so it’s fantastic to have been recognised in this way – we’re so happy.”

Judges' comments: "This is a wonderful concept and is very well made. It comes at a good price point and should be robust for larger dogs."

Dog Harnesses, Leads & Dog Wear

Truelove Ultra-light Magnetic Top Harness

Truelove x That Dog

Stylianos Rigakis, director: "We're proud to be the Winner at PATS 2026 New Product Award for Dog Harnesses, Leads & Dog Wear. Our Truelove magnetic dog harness fastens one-handed and opens at the neck for easy on/off. At only 144g in medium, it's ultra-light and ideal for active dogs. It's made from CORDURA® fabric in four colourways, with a Dyneema chest loop at the front and a grab handle on top. If buckles are hard work for stiff or sore fingers, you only have one hand free or limited dexterity, this harness is easy to put on!"

Judges' comments: "This harness is ideal for those owners with dexterity issues and is also just a cool-looking product."

Small Animal & Bird Products

Teewy Meadow Wheel for Small Animals

Chongqing Pet Union Biological Technology

Grace Gu, vice-president: “This is the first time we have exhibited in the UK so we’re delighted to have won this award.”

Judges' comments: "This product is naturally produced and pleasing on the eye - and is a great boredom-buster."

Pet Care Products (sponsored by Pedigree Wholesale)

Oralade Active +

Oralade

Managing director Anthony Mackle: “It’s a special year for our company and for us to win an award is the cream on top. We felt that PATS was the perfect platform to showcase our products and we’ve had a lot of interest in the range. People are very focused on hydration at the moment, so Oralade Active + is creating a lot of interest at the show.”

Judges' comments: "If we continue to have hot summers, hydration drinks such as this great product will become ever more important for dogs and their owners."

Grooming Products

Portable Dog Washer

Hound Hose

Maisie Osborne, founder: "I’m absolutely thrilled that Hound Hose has won the New Product Showcase Award in Dog Grooming at PATS. It still hasn’t sunk in! This is our first ever trade show, and the feedback has been incredible. I created Hound Hose because, as a dog walker, I was cleaning muddy dogs every day and couldn’t find a washer that could keep up. To win this award genuinely means the world to me. I’m so grateful, and I can’t wait to see where Hound Hose goes from here."

Judges' comments: "This is a great innovative product. It’s portable, practical and ideal for muddy walks and muddy paws."

Aquatics Indoor Products

Interpet Scape Kit Cube Aquariums

Sera Group

Graeme McCartan,senior national account manager: “Aquagarden Interpet are delighted to receive the PATS 2026 Indoor Product award for the Interpet Scape Kit Aquarium set, offering the retailer a set of 3 separate Aquariums in one carton! Each individually sold Aquarium is designed for all consumers looking for a quality starter setup that features a proven and reliable filter complete with Biodegradeable coir tech media for clean water, a clean aquarium pod water conditioner, and importantly an LED lighting unit to aid daytime viewing. The retailer pack comprises 3 Aquariums in 19l, 32l, & 50l and is immediately available from Aquagarden Interpet!”

Judges' comments: "An ideal starter kit with a good range of sizes and price points."

Aquatics Outdoor Products

Pond in a Pot

Anglo Aquatic Plant

Caroline Everett, manager director: “We’re delighted to have won. It was wonderful to hear what the judges had to say about the product. We’ve worked hard in bringing it to market.”

Judges' comments: "This product looks amazing and is fantastic value. It’s super cute and is well designed."

Reptile Products

Fast Acting Reptile Calming & Emotional Wellbeing Kit

Pet Remedy

Rob Tyler, sales director: “This award is fantastic recognition for a product that brings the proven Pet Remedy concept to reptile keepers in a simple, practical format. Reptiles can experience stress just like other pets, and we’re really pleased to help retailers offer their customers a natural calming solution designed with this community in mind.”

Judges' comments: "This is a great product for wellbeing, at a good price and something we haven’t seen before."

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Each year more than 70 million people visit one of London’s eight Royal Parks. That’s a lot of people who could be stopped in their tracks by the colour, beauty and scent that horticulture provides.

However, according to Matthew Pottage, Head of Horticulture and Landscapes, many people are ‘plant blind’ and don’t recognise the environment around them. This is all set to change with the unveiling of four ambitious projects within the new Horticulture Vision 2026-2031 unveiled this week in St James’s Park.

“We can cater for so many tastes and appeal to wide range of people,” he said. “We are going to bring everyday wonder, that’s bold, plucky, unapologetic and impactful.”

Along with the need for the parks to be more climate reslilant, the vision will create iconic spectacles from planting of 100,000 camassia, 500 persica roses and luxurious exotics. Each of the eight parks will eventually have a maximum of seven, and a minimum of three spectacles enabling visitors to recognise parks by their horticultural identifiers. And for the first time, the Royal Parks will work alongside the RHS with a trial of agave in Hyde Park. It also plans to begin growing its own trees in air pots at a site at Bushy Park, an addition to its own nursery facility in Hyde Park.

Matthew added that climate change along with new pests and diseases have created a need for new sustatinable schemes, more plant diversity and experimentation, while respecting the heritage, history and conservation of the parks. “Fortunately, the fabric is wonderful but the planting within some of the designs in tired and struggling.” In contrast to traditional plants, visitors in the coming years can expect to see cacti, succulents and palms.

At Greenwich Park 130 ornamental cherries (Prunus ‘Sekiyama’) will mature to a naturalist valley of blossom each spring.

In The Green Park, around 100,000 camassia planted this autumn will enliven the park with a ‘river of blue’ – a nod to the River Tyburn which once flowed through it (see top picture).

The Italian Gardens in Kensington Gardens will again grow exotic species from around the world including lotus and Chilean wine palms.

Hyde Park’s Rose Garden will be reminagined with single flowerd Rosa persica cultivars which are more tolerant to warm, dry summers. Roses will be planted among 20,000 new plants and 100,000 bulbs.

Farplants will be entering two new plant introductions into the awards at this year’s South West Growers’ Show, held on Wednesday 7th October 2026 at The Matford Centre, Exeter. The show celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026, marking half a century as the South West’s only trade event for growers and plant buyers.

Nepeta × faassenii EarliBlue comes into flower a week ahead of comparable varieties in trials, filling the gap after the spring bulbs have finished and before the summer perennials get going. Large, densely packed spikes of blue sit above healthy, well-branched growth, and once it starts it keeps going through to autumn. Sturdy stems carry the weight of flower and hold the plant upright through summer storms, and the foliage stays lush and green from base to tip all season. Fully hardy, drought tolerant once established and outstanding forage for bees and butterflies, EarliBlue is feeding pollinators at a point in the year when very little else is open. EarliBlue recently won the Visitors’ Vote at Four Oaks and was placed in the New Plant Awards at the National Plant Show earlier this year.

Anisodontea Carnival Lights® Cotton Candy Pink is the most compact variety in the Carnival Lights series, holding an upright, dense habit at 80-100cm tall and 40-60cm across without pinching or staking, and taking pruning happily enough to be used for topiary. Soft pink flowers with a dark red heart come from May right through to autumn, set against noticeably darker foliage than the rest of the series. Once established it asks for very little water and shrugs off heat and dry spells, making it a genuinely low-input choice for patios and containers, and the flowers are a real draw for bees and butterflies.  The Carnival Lights series has already been recognised, with sister variety Candy Apple a finalist for RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year 2026.

Wendy Wherton, Account Manager for the South West at Farplants Sales Ltd, said: “The South West Growers’ Show is judged by people who genuinely know their plants, so it is an event where the plant itself has to do the talking. I spend a lot of my time in garden centres across the region, and these are two I have been looking forward to showing people. Both have earned their place on merit, and it is a nice year to be doing it in, with the Show turning fifty.”

Visitors to the show can see both varieties on Stand 1 alongside the latest additions to the Farplants portfolio.

From close-up birdwatching to busy feeding stations, elho gave retailers plenty to tweet about at Glee this September, unveiling an expanded bird feeder collection designed to bring more choice, style and practical functionality to the wildlife gardening category.

The sustainable plant pot and accessory manufacturer showcased its latest additions alongside inspiring shopfloor concepts and merchandising solutions, demonstrating how retailers can create more engaging displays and make the most of the growing interest in welcoming wildlife into gardens.

The new ranges, which expand on the Red Dot award-winning biodiversity collection, include the cosy feeder silo, cosy and organic suet ball feeders, and window feeding options, offering customers different ways to support garden birds according to their outdoor space and feeding preferences.

More choice for the wildlife category

The cosy feeder silo is designed to hold up to 500g of bird feed and is suitable for a variety of garden birds, including tits, sparrows, starlings and nuthatches. Its generous capacity and rounded design make it a practical option for customers looking to establish a regular feeding spot.

For smaller spaces and customers who want to enjoy birds up close, the cosy window feeder holds up to 1kg of bird food and offers a different way to bring wildlife into everyday life. The essential window feeder provides another option within the new range.

The cosy and organic suet ball feeders add further choice, allowing retailers to offer different feeding formats alongside the brand’s existing bird houses, bird stations and insect hotels.

Made from 100 per cent recycled plastic, the new products combine elho’s sustainability credentials with contemporary design and practical functionality.

A joined-up wildlife offer

The launch formed part of elho’s wider return to Glee, where the brand demonstrated how its expanding product portfolio can help retailers build coordinated wildlife displays and encourage complementary purchases.

With bird houses, feeders and insect hotels available across complementary design families, the collection gives retailers opportunities to create a more complete wildlife gardening offer, helping customers find products that suit both their outdoor space and their personal style.

David Nicholson, UK & ROW Sales Manager at elho, said: “Wildlife gardening is an important opportunity for retailers, and our new feeders give customers more ways to get involved, whether they have a large garden, a small patio or simply want to enjoy birds from their window.

“By expanding the collection with different feeding formats, we’re helping retailers offer more choice while creating opportunities to build coordinated wildlife displays. It’s a range that brings together practical functionality, contemporary design and our commitment to sustainability, making it easy for customers to find something that works for their space.”

A little bird box surprise at Glee

elho also added a little extra excitement to the show by hiding miniature bird boxes around the event site each day. Visitors who found one and brought it to the elho stand received a free display, giving retailers another reason to explore the new collection and its merchandising possibilities.

For more information about elho, its products and its mission to give back to nature, visit: www.elho.com/en

The Horticultural Trades Association has responded to the Environment Secretary's announcement that local communities will receive £79 million to restore nature and adapt to climate change.

Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the HTA, said: “Green infrastructure and the environmental horticulture sector does more than just benefit the country’s economy; it also helps create healthier, more biodiverse and climate-resilient communities. We welcome today’s announcement by the Environment Secretary for a £79 million nature restoration package.

“We especially welcome the £53 million tree fund. This focus on tree planting, particularly in our urban areas, is something we’ve consistently campaigned for. Just last week at our annual conference we launched our landmark Value of Green Spaces report. Green spaces can save the NHS £148m a year. The trees and green spaces we produce and then plant can cool our towns and cities during heatwaves, absorb rainwater during storms, improve air quality, support wildlife and help keep us physically and mentally healthy.

“We want to set strong roots for this plan to succeed. So, let’s get the detail and make sure the government works with us and gets UK growers involved in this plan. We don’t want to miss this as an opportunity to boost UK horticultural production.

“Our green businesses have the expertise to supply the half a million trees the Environment Secretary plans for towns, cities, and villages across the country. By working with sector experts, we can make sure we have the right trees for the right place, that are climate resilient and, most critically, cared for.  We look forward to working with the government to ensure these ambitions are delivered successfully and provide lasting benefits for communities across the country.”

To read the HTA’s Value of Green Spaces report, visit: hta.org.uk/value-of-plants-gardens-green-spaces

Wyeviale Nurseries has appointed David Williams as its new Production Development Manager as part of the Hereford-based company’s continued investment in future growth, innovation and horticultural excellence. 

The newly created senior leadership role will support the nursery’s growing operations, sustainable production techniques and long-term development as customer and market needs continue to evolve.

Andy Johnson, Managing Director of the multi-award-winning, family-run Wyevale Nurseries, explains: “This new appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to developing the business, enhancing our growing operations and ensuring we continue to meet the evolving needs of our customers. It will also allow me to spend more time working alongside our sales, trading and despatch teams as we move the business forward.”

David will report directly to Andy and work alongside the heads of all divisions to identify technical challenges and opportunities across production, helping to evolve growing techniques and plant ranges in response to climate change and changing market demands.

The role has been created to strengthen collaboration across the firm’s growing departments, support specialist production teams and ensure Wyevale Nurseries remains at the forefront of production and service excellence.

David joins Wyevale Nurseries from Frank P Matthews, where he was Container Unit Manager. His horticultural career has also included roles with Dingle Nurseries, Deepdale Trees and Lambs Flowers, building extensive experience across field production, container-grown stock, semi-mature trees and large-scale crop production.

David says: “I’m delighted to be joining Wyevale Nurseries at such an exciting time for the business. It has an outstanding reputation for quality, innovation and customer service, and I’m looking forward to working with colleagues across the company to help develop production systems, share best practice and support future growth.”

Originally from Berriew and now living in Highley, David studied at Welshpool High School and Walford and North Shropshire College. He is engaged to be married next year and recently became a father.

Wyevale Nurseries, which celebrates its 97th anniversary in business next year, is a multi-award-winning commercial grower supplying trees, shrubs, hedging and herbaceous plants to the retail and amenity sectors nationwide.

Founded in 1930 and still family-owned, Wyevale Nurseries manages 800 acres of production across multiple sites. One of the last remaining large general nurseries in the UK with its own propagation unit, it grows most of its stock in-house.

For further details about Wyevale Nurseries, please call 01432 845200 or visit www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk.

The Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA) has welcomed its second cohort onto its Management Development Programme, bringing together 12 young horticulture professionals from businesses and organisations across the industry.

The programme has been made possible thanks to significant support from across the horticulture industry. The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation is the headline sponsor, with additional funding from The GCA Trust, the British Ornamentals Association and YPHA’s own Launch Success Challenge.

The 2026-27 programme began at Pershore College on Tuesday 29th September, with delegates completing the first of three residential training blocks led by Lindsay Muir of Cedar Associates.

YPHA commissioned Lindsay, an experienced leadership and management trainer, to develop and deliver a bespoke nine-day programme for people who already have management responsibility within horticulture but may not previously have had access to formal management training. Boyd Douglas-Davies also provided input into the programme’s development.

A major priority for YPHA has been finding a way to deliver management training of this quality at a cost accessible to horticultural businesses of all sizes. Thanks to its sponsors, each place on the programme has been subsidised by £1,000, meaning employers pay £650 for nine days of training, including meals and residential accommodation.

Demand was high, with 44 applications for just 11 available places, alongside one place held by a member of the YPHA Operations team who also acts as course coordinator.

The 2026-27 cohort is:

• Alexandra Hornsby, Garden King
• Andy Pennock, Haws Watering Cans
• Ben Peilow, Altnagelvin Garden Centre
• David Cheer, Cheers Nurseries Ltd
• Isobel Mills, Immediate Media Co. (Gardeners’ World Live) Josh Blaber, Crocus
• Keye Frith, WD Smith & Son
• Lucy Harris, Blenheim Garden Centre
• Mitch Wall, M&S Wilkinson Ltd (Port Sunlight Garden Centre) Olivia Blackburn, British Garden Centres
• Sam Fry, Ramsbury Manor Foundation
• Will Burks, The Gardens Group

The first block focused on core identity, teamwork and planning, including strategic planning, leading and working as a team, and building accountability and shared goals. Block Two will move into communication, handling conflict and difficult conversations, and personal productivity, before the final block covers getting the best from staff, coaching and supporting development, and managing through change.

Reflecting on the first block, Josh Blaber of Crocus said: “The first block has given me a much better understanding of my own management style and plenty to think about in terms of how I can get the best from my team. I’ve learnt a lot already and I’m looking forward to building on that over the next two blocks.”

Lucy Harris of Blenheim Garden Centre said: “It took me outside my comfort zone at first, but getting to know the rest of the group made a huge difference. I’ve already taken so much from the course and come away with lots to think about and put into practice. I’m really looking forward to seeing what the next two blocks bring.”

YPHA thanked all of the organisations and individuals whose support has enabled it to subsidise the programme so substantially, allowing the quality of the training to remain the priority while keeping the employer contribution affordable.

YPHA also thanked Olivia Blackburn for coordinating the programme on site at Pershore, supporting the delegates and helping to ensure the first residential block ran smoothly alongside taking part in the programme herself.

Jeremy Costello of YPHA said: “It was fantastic to join the cohort for dinner and see the strong bonds they had already formed after just two days together. Bringing a group of complete strangers from different parts of horticulture together and seeing them connect so quickly is a brilliant example of the power of togetherness within our industry.

“There is so much work that goes into creating opportunities like this that people understandably never see, from the initial idea through to getting everyone into that room together. YPHA is run by volunteers, and making high-quality development genuinely accessible to young people across horticulture takes a huge amount of time, effort and support from the wider industry.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the organisations that have backed the programme and made that possible, and I’m really looking forward to seeing what this group takes from the next two blocks.”

The residential format is an important part of the programme, with the same cohort returning for all three blocks and learning alongside people from different businesses and areas of horticulture. As well as formal management development, it gives delegates the opportunity to build a peer network beyond their own workplaces.

The cohort will return to Pershore College for Block Two from 3rd to 5th November 2026, before completing the programme with Block Three from 19th to 21st January 2027.

Caulders Garden Centres has announced the acquisition of the former Strawberry Corner Garden Centre at Wallyford, East Lothian, with plans to reopen the much-loved site in March 2027.

The independent Scottish garden centre group purchased the site in July but has waited until plans for its redevelopment were progressed before announcing the acquisition.

Planning applications have now been lodged, with Caulders preparing for a significant refurbishment of the garden centre. The first phase will see the garden centre reopen, with a new Caulders restaurant to follow soon afterwards.

Strawberry Corner first opened in 1994 and served the local community for more than 30 years before closing in January 2026.

Caulders owners Colin and Mandy Barrie said: “We have been desperate to share this news since July! Strawberry Corner is a brilliant site in a fantastic location and clearly meant a great deal to the local community.

“Our aim isn't simply to put a new name above the door. We want to invest in the site, give it a new lease of life and create a garden centre that the community can once again be proud to call their own.

“We hope to reopen the garden centre in March 2027, with a new Caulders restaurant following soon afterwards. We can't wait to bring Strawberry Corner back to life and welcome customers through the doors again.”

The acquisition follows Caulders' recent investment of almost £1 million in nearby Caulders Merryhatton, where the company has created a new restaurant, extended and upgraded the car park and almost doubled the size of the plant area.

“The response to Merryhatton has been incredible and has given us enormous confidence about investing further in East Lothian,” added Mandy and Colin.

“We're a Scottish family business and take a long-term view when we invest. We want to create jobs, support local suppliers and build garden centres that become an important part of their communities.”

The Strawberry Corner development is expected to create around 20 jobs initially, rising to approximately 35–40 full and part-time positions once the garden centre and restaurant are fully operational.

The acquisition takes the Caulders group to 12 garden centres across Scotland.

British Garden Centres has reported a solid financial performance for 2025, with sales increasing by almost 30%.  Favourable spring weather, continued investment across its existing portfolio and the opening of eight new garden centres were the contributing factors.

Woodthorpe Hall Garden Centres Ltd saw the acquisition of Gosforth, Shinfield, Gloucester, Northampton, Havant, Heighley Gate, Hayes and Rugby, taking the combined estate of Woodthorpe Hall Garden Centres Limited and BGC South Limited, trading together as British Garden Centres, to 80 centres across the UK, recording combined sales of £223.2 million, an increase of £51 million on 2024. Both newly opened and established centres contributed to the year’s strong performance.

British Garden Centres did not just grow in 2025; it became more profitable, with EBITDA rising to £18.7 million combined. Operating profit reached £15.1 million, resulting in a margin of 6.8% and profit before tax increased by almost 60% to £12.2 million. Gross margin rose to 53.3% in 2025, up from 51.7% in 2024.

Charles Stubbs, Owner and Director of British Garden Centres, said: “2025 was such a successful year for the group; this is thanks to the hard work, commitment and enthusiasm of every team member across our business. With a larger estate, loyal customers and more improvements planned, we are well placed to keep growing while continuing to offer visitors enjoyable places to shop, eat and spend time.” 

Amy Stubbs, Managing Director of British Garden Centres, added: “As a family-run business, British Garden Centres continues to focus on long-term sustainable growth, investing heavily in its people, centres, and supply chain infrastructure. These financial results reflect the group's resilience and its ongoing strategy to create inspiring destination spaces for gardeners and families across the UK. On behalf of the management team, I would like to thank all team members across British Garden Centres whose commitment, professionalism and hard work have brought us to where we are today.”

British Garden Centres has 80 centres around the country. The group is owned and led by the Stubbs family, who also own and operate Woodthorpe Leisure Park in Lincolnshire.

BGC was launched in 1990 with the opening of Woodthorpe Garden Centre by brothers Charles and Robert Stubbs. Since 2018, it has expanded rapidly with the acquisition of garden centres, allowing it to grow from its heartland to the business it is now, with 80 garden centres spread from Carmarthen to Ramsgate, Wimborne to East Durham.

The group has a team of over 3,500 colleagues working across the garden centres, restaurants, growing nurseries, distribution centres, Woodthorpe Leisure Park, and Woody’s Restaurant & Bar.

The Horticultural Trades Association has announced the appointment of Jane Lawler as its new President, following the Annual General Meeting held at Horticulture: The Conference.

Jane Lawler takes over from Will Armitage, who successfully completed his term and now serves as Immediate Past President. Neil Grant has been named Vice President of the HTA.

Jane Lawler, newly appointed HTA President, said: “I’m very much looking forward to the next two years, and I’m especially grateful to be stepping into the well-worn boots of our outgoing President, Will Armitage. He has presided over an historic period of growth and development at the HTA and has been enormously generous with his time and experience, supporting not only me, but the whole Board and Senior Leadership Team.”

Jane has almost 40 years of marketing and business development experience, gained across large corporations, investor-funded enterprises and family-owned businesses. She provides strategic business advice and practical, down-to-earth solutions to business development and marketing challenges. She is also well connected across the garden products, DIY, and horticultural retail and supply chains.

Jane joined the HTA Board as a Non-Executive Director in 2020 and was appointed HTA Vice President in 2024. She continues to provide consultancy services to clients across a diverse range of product categories, including plant protection, garden furniture, landscaping products, sundries, pest control, growing media and hardy ornamentals with the shared aim of driving brand value, sales, and distribution through UK home garden channels.

Neil Grant, the HTA’s new Vice President, said:“I am honoured and excited to assume the role of Vice President at the Horticultural Trades Association, particularly at this pivotal moment of innovation and progress. I want to connect with more of our members and continue to build on the rich heritage of our green industry, environmental horticulture. Together with our new President, Jane Lawler, and the rest of the HTA Board, I look forward to ensuring our association is well equipped to adapt to our evolving landscape, to advocate for our member businesses, and to support our policy and public affairs team as they highlight the need for more green spaces.”

Alongside Jane Lawler’s ratification as HTA President at the AGM, three new Non-Executive Directors were approved to join the HTA Board: Rebecca Grant of Joseph Rochford Gardens Ltd, Emma Birkbeck of Fargro Ltd and Nadine Charlton of Homespring Gardens.

All three bring extensive experience and expertise from across the industry and will make a significant contribution to the association’s continued success and innovation.

Evesham-headquartered supplier and distributor of horticultural products BHGS Limited, has appointed administrators from BTG, the financial and real estate advisory group, to conduct a review of the business and find the best route forward for creditors.

Directors of BHGS Limited, which was incorporated in 2001 and has sites in Evesham, Hayle and Chichester, appointed Mark Malone and Gareth Prince, Partners at BTG, as Joint Administrators of the business on 22 September 2026.

The business is continuing to trade as the administrators review operations and assess the various options still available for the business.

Mark Malone, Partner at BTG, said: “After exploring various options to find the best route forward for the business, the directors of BHGS have been left with no choice but to make the difficult decision to file for administration. This decision followed a period of trading losses and mounting cashflow pressures. This is a very challenging time for the business, and everyone concerned would like to see a positive conclusion, if possible.

"We are currently conducting a thorough review of the business and its operations to determine the best route forward as part of our duties as administrators. The business is continuing to trade for now and we would invite any potentially interested parties to make contact as soon as possible." 

For more information BTG visit: www.btguk.com

Having enjoyed another great year of results at River Cottage, RocketGro is looking forward to supporting Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall and his team in 2027 with all their compost and mulching needs with a continued focus on soil health and rising yield!

Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall commented: “I’m a huge fan of RocketGro’s brilliant organic range of composts and mulches. I’ve been using them for years both at home and in the River Cottage veg gardens, and the results have been superb. The seed and cutting compost has an excellent germination rate, and the topsoil and multipurpose compost make a great combination for growing in containers and raised beds. And the magic mulch is a very useful top dressing for our no-dig system at River Cottage.  I’m looking forward to many more seasons of flourishing veg beds in partnership with Toby and the excellent RocketGro team.”

RocketGro Managing Director Toby Thomas commented: “We are thrilled that Hugh and his team remain so happy with our RocketGro products. The River Cottage gardens, poly tunnels and veg beds are a big producer of most of the vegetables, salads, and root crops that are used in their restaurant and cookery school. The fact that all of these start life in RocketGro, whilst at the same time our products continue to nurture the soil across the property boosting its health and vitality for greater yield is a testament to how far RocketGro has come in the last 6 years. Unbeknown to us, Hugh was buying our products from the very beginning. The fact that we now have this ongoing relationship is a truly special part of our story.”

Find out more

If you want to learn more about RocketGro or are keen to discuss adding its product portfolio into your 2025 offering, please contact Toby Thomas (hello@rocketgro.co.uk /07936 928 981) or Andy Abraham (andy@rocketgro.co.uk / 07446 937902). View the full range and discover more about the RocketGro story at www.rocketgro.co.uk

Garden Centre customers rarely leave saying, "That centre was understaffed."

What they do say is:

"I couldn't find anyone to help me."

"The queue was too long."

"Nobody was available in the plant area."

"The service wasn't what it used to be."

The reality is that today's garden centre customer expects much more than simply finding products on shelves. They want expert advice on plants, help locating items, prompt service in cafés and restaurants and assistance with larger purchases. When those needs aren't met, the impact is felt immediately.

Staffing decisions play a critical role in shaping that experience.

Having the right people in the right place at the right time helps ensure customer-facing areas are properly supported throughout the day, particularly during peak trading periods. Conversely, even a small staffing gap at a key touchpoint can lead to longer waits, missed sales opportunities, and reduced customer satisfaction.

For managers, the challenge is balancing exceptional customer service with labour costs and operational efficiency. That's where effective workforce planning becomes essential.

Modern workforce management technology provides visibility of labour demand, supports smarter scheduling decisions and helps ensure resources are aligned with actual business requirements. The result is improved customer experiences, more engaged teams, and better operational control.

In a competitive retail environment, customers may not notice good workforce planning, but they certainly notice when it's missing.

Want to ensure customers always find the help they need when they need it?

Discover how WorkForce Manager helps Garden Centres optimise staffing, improve service levels and gain greater control over labour costs. Arrange a demonstration today.

www.workforce-manager.co.uk | info@workforce-manager.co.uk | 01604 697101

Blue Diamond Garden Centres has acquired a 42-acre warehouse site at Pollington, East Yorkshire, more than doubling its existing warehousing capacity.

The former RAF Snaith site, located just off the M62, comprises three warehouses. The freehold acquisition and purchase of Ames’ remaining UK stock follow the company’s departure from the UK market.  The strategically located site provides Blue Diamond with significant additional space and a strong distribution base to support its expanding network of garden centres across the UK and Channel Islands.

Alan Roper, Chief Executive of Blue Diamond Garden Centres, said: “This is a significant acquisition for Blue Diamond. The Pollington site doubles our existing warehouse capacity in an excellent location, with strong access to our growing network of garden centres.  It provides us scale and flexibility to support the business today, while creating an important platform for our continued growth in the years ahead.”

Blue Diamond Garden Centres is the UK’s largest garden centre group by turnover, with annual sales of more than £400 million. The Group operates 55 centres across the UK and Channel Islands and continues to invest in its garden centre estate, product ranges and infrastructure as it expands its national presence.