GCA Garden Centre of the Year, Fairways at Ashbourne have just acquired their third garden centre; Forest Garden Centre in Matlock.

Forest Garden Centre, which is similar in size to Fairways at Maccesfield and 30 minutes away from the Ashbourne centre, has been family run for the past 40 years. 

Fairways Director, Ally Moseley, told GTN Xtra "We will rebrand the site as Fairways and look to invest in the business which has a very strong seasonal business. 

"We have already taken control of the small restaurant which was operated by a leaseholder previously. Steve who runs Ashbourne will be overseeing the integtration for Forest Garden Centre to the Fairways group.

"At present the centre does not have EPOS so we are all having to remember how to use pencil and paper to manage things to start with."

On the Fairways facebook page they say: "We are absolutely delighted to announce that, as part of our business expansion, we have acquired Forest Garden Centre in Matlock! This new venue joins Ashbourne and Macclesfield as the third centre in our group and we can't wait to welcome you all to the new 'Fairways, Matlock'.

"This new addition will allow us to offer even more variety for all of your gardening and lifestyle needs. We are dedicated to providing top-quality products and exceptional customer service, and this new garden centre is a fantastic opportunity for us to further enhance your experience.

"Our team is currently hard at work to ensure a seamless transition, stay tuned for more updates and special promotions as we continue to grow and serve the wider Derbyshire community!"

The sale to Fairways was handed on behalf of the vendors by Alexander Mackie Associates Ltd.

Two weekends ago Dobbies ran a 20% off all plants promotion.  On a visit to Dobbies Beaconsfield that weekend, GTN was pleased to see the Planteria full of plants and with 20% off too! With much of the season to go we were surprised to see the 20% off offer however. So we asked the Dobbies Head Office team for feedback on the promotion:

Andy Hannan, Commercial Director at Dobbies Garden Centres has now commented: “Our 20% off plants and houseplants event, which ran across all our stores nationwide last week, had a really positive response from our customers and Club members.

“Despite mixed weather across the UK, we saw an average 10% increase in footfall, week-on-week. We were well prepared with volume of stock and this resulted in really great sales over the 6 days of the promotion.”

See GTN's gallery of photos from Dobbies Beaconsfield below

For the fourth year running Norfolk Leisure are opening their doors to display their full 2025 catalogue of Garden Furniture and Accessories. 

Heading to Cranmore Park, Solihull from the 20th-29th May 2024 Norfolk Leisure will be inviting both new and existing customers to browse the full 2025 range of Garden Lounge Sets, Dining Sets, Pergolas, Parasols, Pizza Ovens and more.

Showcasing new features, colourways, cushion materials and ranges as well as the best-selling products from brands such as LIFE Outdoor Living, Royce, Keter and Ooni Pizza Ovens. Whilst also displaying their very own range of handpicked Furniture and Accessories with their Norfolk Collection range. 

Experience the Royce Cube firsthand - this best-selling Bioclimatic Pergola boasts cutting-edge features including LED Lighting, Adjustable Louvres, and Integrated Guttering. Its sleek, contemporary design and revolutionary functionalities make the Royce Cube the ultimate enhancement for any garden or outdoor setting.

LIFE Outdoor Living is boldly embracing contemporary colour trends with their latest cushion materials and vibrant colour palettes. Not only that, but their innovative All-Weather and Soltex materials redefine low maintenance, making them an irresistible choice for those seeking both style and practicality in their outdoor furniture.

Ooni Pizza Ovens is evolving its product line-up to stay ahead in a competitive market and better serve its customers. Discover their extensive range of Pizza Ovens, accessories, and the recently introduced Detroit Style Pizza cookware, reflecting their commitment to innovation and meeting diverse culinary needs. 

Trade customers are being invited from across the nation for this event, so if you’re a new or existing Norfolk Leisure customer then contact their friendly team at sales@norfolkleisure.co.uk

If you have a showroom open for business, or an open day this summer you'll be wanting as many forward thinking garden retailers to come and visit you as possible.

So that our readers can plan their visits and make the best use of their valuable time, GTN is publishing it's first Showrooms - Open For Business Directory in the May issue of the magazine and here on-line in GTN Xtra at the end of May.

To make sure your showroom or Open Day is included in the directory, please contact Alan Burdon on 07939 048899, e-mail alan@pottingshedpress.co.uk, before 3pm on Thursday 9th May.

Today, business success isn’t just measured by the bottom line. Most businesses are looking to make thoughtful procurement decisions and to have a positive impact in the world beyond. 

So, how can you do that, while also keeping an eye on costs and driving your own business forward?

Supporting British manufacturing is one way to have an instant impact. Not only does every order boost a vital sector for our economy, but supporting British manufacturing keeps the manufacturing miles and carbon footprint of any upgrade work you do to your site to a minimum. 

Leading canopy and buildings designers Fordingbridge embody this approach. They design and manufacture all their canopies, frames, and building structures from a single West Sussex site near picturesque historical town Arundel. They also work with British suppliers with the highest sustainability standards wherever possible and are leaders in incorporating eco-friendly features into their designs.

This means that you can complete upgrade work to your garden centre, knowing that you’re supporting British businesses while meeting your sustainability commitments – something that’s increasingly important to customers. It’s the ultimate win-win. 

Want to find out more? Get inspired about what British manufacturing can do for you at www.fordingbridge.co.uk

The new three-day PATS 2024 continues to exceed all expectations as a record number of companies and brands book stand space for the show, which takes place at Telford International Centre from Sunday, 29th September to Tuesday, 1st October 2024.

With PATS 2024 taking over all of the exhibition space at Telford International Centre, this year’s event will also feature the Aquatics Zone, a dedicated area for aquatics and watergardening exhibitors.

Showcasing all of the latest launches under one roof, the show’s reputation has grown impressively over the past 16 years since launching in 2009. With such a winning formula, PATS has become the ‘must-visit’ event for UK and international retailers and buyers.

With still five months to go before the doors open, over 260 exhibitors have already been confirmed, with the final figure expected to reach well over 300.  

JR Products have become the 260th company to sign up to exhibit at PATS 2024.

Natural dog food supplier Finer By Nature is making its return to PATS, eager to take advantage of the show’s reputation for attracting key decision makers and buyers, and the show has also attracted an impressive number of first-time exhibitors, like PAWD DRINKS and Fell Dog.

As the exhibitor numbers continue to grow over the coming months, work continues on delivering the best visitor attractions, including:

• The biggest ever showcase of new pet, aquatic and watergardening products
• Unrivalled show offers and competitions
• Top groomers giving insightful demonstrations, workshops and talks
• Fantastic networking opportunities
• Free entry, free show catalogue, free parking for up to 1,300 cars and a complimentary tea/coffee voucher

You can register online at www.patshow.co.uk where you’ll also find a full list of exhibitors and information on how to reach the venue.

Following the high levels of rainfall seen this winter, The Gardens Group, which has three garden centres in Dorset and Somerset, is calling for gardeners across the region and beyond to harvest rainwater at home.

With many methods of collecting rainwater at home, Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group (pictured above) and his team are hopeful that anyone with a garden or outdoor space can be part of the solution to reduce flooding, protect wildlife habitats and minimise their own mains water consumption.

Mike Burks explains: “Water harvesting is a great example of how gardening can be a force for good when it comes to looking after our planet. You don’t need a huge, sophisticated water collection system that collect thousands of litres or even lots of space. If 100 more homes had a water butt enabling them to collect 210 litres of water each that’s 21,000 less litres less hitting our roads, fields and rivers. It is becoming more apparent how important it is for us all to take responsibility for our own patch of this planet and this is one small step that can be achieved no matter your gardening experience. It’s much better-quality water for our plants, making for healthier growth and as there aren’t any chemicals added, its better for the soil too. So, if we can get into the habit of collecting rainwater when it’s abundant, our gardens and wildlife will thank us when water becomes scarcer in the warmer and drier months.”

When it comes to implementing water collection at home, there are many options, including purpose-made water butts, which come in a variety of sizes from 100-litres to 13,000-litres and can be connected to gutters and hosepipes. For a more homemade approach, durable items from the home, such as milk cartons or plastic bottles, can be repurposed and attached to windows, fences and balconies.  

Pictured above: Amelia Whittaker, Elaine Donachie - Retail Trust Estate Manager, Helen Goldsby - West Retail Trust Funding and Grants Bidwriter, David Gibson - Dobbies Regional Manager, Kathy MacIntyre - Director of Supported Living Servies for Retail Trust, Debbie Harding, David Robinson - Dobbies CEO, Lawrence Coen - Retail Trust Managing Director of Property and Supported Living, Naomi Rollings - Retail Trust Head of Partnerships and Events, Emma Tailford - Dobbies Horti Manager, Laura Adamson and Jonathan Sykes - Dobbies General Manager (Milngavie). 

Dobbies is partnering with retail industry charity, the Retail Trust, to enhance the experience of the residents of the Hugh Fraser Retirement Estate in Glasgow.

It is one of five supported living estates run by the Retail Trust for people retired from the retail industry, and the partnership with Dobbies forms part of the Retail Trust’s £1million renovation of the estate to create a new community hub.

The first activity from the new partnership will see the creation of a garden space outside the community café, which Dobbies will also consult and support on. This will feature a pond to encourage wildlife into the garden, as well as a grow your own space to enable residents to grow their own fruit and vegetables. They will also help create a warm welcome to the café, with houseplants and furniture for the reception area.

The Senior Leadership Team, colleagues from the Central Support Office, as well as the Milngavie store, will all be involved in the project which starts during National Gardening Week (29 April to 5 May) and will last through 2024.

The area will provide residents with a vibrant community hub where they can connect with each other and enjoy the outdoors, positively contributing to their physical and mental health[1], and helping to tackle the problem of isolation often felt by older or vulnerable people. The addition of the grow-your-own area is designed to foster creativity among the group, enhance wellbeing and provide a new outlet for the residents to enjoy garden living.

New research from Dobbies by Censuswide found that almost a quarter (24%) of Brits enjoyed gardening because it supported their sense of wellbeing, 41% of respondents who use their garden for activities said being in the garden brightens their mood, and 31% said it improves their mental health.

David Robinson, CEO at Dobbies Garden Centre, said: “As a nation of gardeners, we know that being able to enjoy gardens and outdoor spaces can improve our overall health and wellbeing. We’re proud to be partnering with the Retail Trust to provide and help create the garden living spaces for the community at the Hugh Fraser Retirement Estate to enjoy. We’re super excited about this project and can’t wait to get started.”

Lawrence Coen, Managing Director Property and Supporting Living, the Retail Trust, added: “Our Newton Mearns estate sits amidst ten acres of beautiful grounds and has a vibrant community, so the added garden and grow-your-own area will fit right into our surroundings and feel of the site.

“The donation of garden living products and volunteer hours from the Dobbies team will result in our residents and other local people being able to connect with nature, learn new skills, and build a sense of community. We’re excited to nurture our partnership with Dobbies, and see what’s in store for the future.”

The Hugh Fraser Retirement Estate is a safe place where over 55s can live an independent life, but still have access to support when needed. The homes are equipped with the latest smart home technology so residents can fully enjoy the highest quality of life.

Three disused spaces, a community café and the Retail Trust’s reception area are all being refurbished to build the new facilities, which will cater for more than 1,000 local people a year and provide more support for those most at risk of isolation and with long-term health needs.

The Retail Trust also works with more than 200 retailers to protect their staff’s wellbeing, with support for Dobbies colleagues including access to a virtual GP, counselling for themselves and younger people in their care, and a range of discounts and rewards.

As the gardening season gets underway in earnest, the team at GIMA are looking ahead to November when the winners of the 2024 GIMA Awards will be announced. But first, the judges need to deliberate. Here, GIMA reveals who will be making the tough decisions this year.

Once again, GIMA has secured an impressive line-up of judges, with representatives from both independent and multiple garden centres being joined by online goliaths, trade editors and a high-profile personality from social media and across the industry. Confirmed judges are Blue Diamond’s Alan Roper, Sharon McNair from Tongs/ Yorkshire Garden Centres, Josh Novell of Polhill Garden Centres, Helen Lloyd from Stratford Garden Centres, Haskin’s Andy Harriss, Scott Provan from Klondyke, plus Garden Trade News’ Trevor Pfeiffer, Michael Perry aka Mr Plant Geek, and Jade Galloway-Harrison from award sponsors, eBay.

This year judges will convene at the Warwick Racecourse on 9th and 10th July to consider the many award entries that are coming in from all corners of the garden retail sector. The main event, the awards themselves, will take place on Thursday 7th November at the five-star Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, South Wales.

Time is running out to enter!
Of course, judges need things to judge! The deadline for entry into the GIMA Awards – Friday 31st May - is fast approaching and those who want to be up for consideration are encouraged to submit their entries now.

This year there will be 17 categories up for grabs, including all the normal product categories plus the all-new Best Point of Sales, Best Online or Social Campaign and Best Multi-Channel Marketing Campaign. As always, the highly coveted HTA sponsored Sustainability Award (including a Sustainability Champion for each product category), the Gardenex Export Achievement Award, plus the GCA sponsored Supplier of the Year will all return, alongside the GIMA Sword of Excellence.

How to enter

To enter this year’s GIMA Awards, please visit www.gima.org.uk/events/gima-awards-2024-product-marketing-entry-form/

Entry fees for GIMA members are £60 + VAT per entry, while non-members can enter at £120 + VAT per entry.

Early Bird Discount!

Calling all early birds. If you book and pay for your tickets for the GIMA Awards Gala Dinner by 31st May 2024, you’ll be eligible for a 5% discount on bookings. Interested parties are urged to book now to avoid missing out on this exclusive offer.

To find out more please visit: https://gima.org.uk/gima-awards/

The enthusiasm for BBQs and outdoor cooking is unabated, whereby more and more diversified and specialised forms are shaping the industry. The demands in food preparation are also increasing due to the large selection of grills, outdoor kitchens and accessories. Not only the recipes are becoming more sophisticated, so are the industry's new products.

At the coming spoga+gafa, which is being staged from 16 to 18 June 2024, the exhibitors will present the latest developments in the BBQ and outdoor cooking section. The trade visitors can look forward to a wide, cosmopolitan offer, which will not only set benchmarks in terms of performance and design, but also regarding sustainability.

Freely combinable: The personalisation of BBQs
The growing passion for BBQs and outdoor cooking is changing the demands in the equipment. Alongside the traditional charcoal grill, today there are a variety of grills and outdoor kitchens for different fuels, sizes and price categories. On top of that there is also a huge selection of accessories. These can all be combined today. Modular elements enable the personalised compilation of the grills or outdoor kitchens - depending on the requirements, budget and garden space.

Down to the minute: More precision in the preparation of food
The BBQ sector is literally igniting the turbo. Current appliances give full power at the touch of a button and also reach temperatures of up to 800 degrees as electric models. Digital displays keep everything under control and enable accurate heat settings. An even distribution of heat ensures the grilled food is juicier and reduces the consumption of electricity or gas. The matching accessories include backburners with a top heat function or new gloves against extreme heat.

Hot revival: Update for traditional appliances
Everything was better in the past? Not necessarily, but often easier. For example, preparing food on an open fire. There is a return to traditional product forms for such old-school BBQ experiences. Traditional appliances are experiencing a revival and at the same time an update, whether for XXL Mexican ovens, portable pizza ovens or height-adjustable braziers. Pots and pans made of cast iron or leather BBQ gloves convey a classic BBQ feeling too.

All-in-one: BBQ accessories are becoming more versatile and more mobile
The culinary diversity of today's BBQ experiences is reflected by the versatility of the accessories. Current BBQ gadgets can be put together individually and combined with grill appliances of different brands. All-in-one accessories such as cold smoke generators enable all types of smoking. Even the shelf for the firewood doubles up as a bench when sitting around the fireplace with friends. BBQ fans don't have to do without comfort when enjoying outdoor adventures. Foldable camping braziers and grill tables facilitate barbecues away from home, so do fast-action, battery-run charcoal lighters or portable BBQ lights.

More conscious grilling: Demand for high-quality fuels
Together with the technical equipment and accessories the demands in BBQ fuels have also grown. The trend is towards high-quality and sustainably produced charcoal and briquettes. Premium products are in demand such as coal from combined hardwoods for a long combustion period and aromatic taste. Low-odour Japanese binchotan charcoal that produces little smoke is also popular. It is often produced as a FSC-certified material to support fair trade and sustainable forest management.

Today's forms of BBQs and outdoor cooking is a far cry from the simple charcoal BBQ of earlier days. Current BBQ models can cook almost anything from the minute steak, to smoked salmon, pizza or bread. The coming spoga+gafa will show which new grills, outdoor kitchens and accessories enhance this variety. From 16 to 18 June 2024, the garden lifestyle trade fair will once again offer an overview of the BBQ innovations.

About spoga+gafa
spoga+gafa is the biggest garden and BBQ fair in the world. As an international trade fair at the location in Cologne, it sets impulses for the entire garden world. At the leading global trade fair, the green industry talks about the line-ups and trends of the coming season and presents solutions for current and future challenges. The focus of spoga+gafa lies on trends and innovations from the sections garden bbq, garden creation & care, garden living and garden unique. The unique range of offerings turns the trade fair into the place-to-be for the purchasing managers of all trading forms. The Industry Garden Association e.V. (IVG) is the industry sponsor of spoga+gafa.

The coming edition of spoga+gafa is being staged from 16 to 18 June 2024 under the key theme "Responsible Gardens".

Further information is available at www.spogagafa.com

Doff Portland, one of the country’s largest manufacturers of garden care products and the sole UK manufacturer of slug pellets certified for organic growing, has been awarded the prestigious King’s Award for International Trade, recognising outstanding short-term growth in overseas sales.

Supplying both the amateur and professional sectors in the UK and in Europe, the Nottinghamshire-based company founded in 1946 employs 90 staff in the locality. Doff delivers consumer products through garden centres, wholesalers and national retailers.  It is best known for its Doff, Power-Up and Green Fingers brands.

With the awards acclaimed as the most prestigious business awards in the UK, Doff Portland is recognised for overseas sales growth of 300% over three years. Exports now represent well over 10% of the business.

Doff Portland CEO, Ben Shapiro, attributes the company’s overseas success to its significant investment in proprietary authorisations, and exclusive partnerships.  Doff has extended its UK authorisations for slug control to over 15 EU countries.  This has facilitated the export of a wider product range spanning biocides, herbicides, and insecticides. 

“Navigating the hurdles of Brexit over recent years has been a challenge, but it’s credit to the entire team and our suppliers that we’ve secured a portfolio of key authorisations and established ourselves in important EU markets with both retail and agricultural customers,” he says.

This award also recognises the company’s growth into the EU in the agricultural sector. which has also been key to its success servicing the consumer market. 

“Doff Agriculture now has a leading position in professional slug control across Europe. Our innovation in this field ensures our retail customers are supplied with professional grade product certified for organic use,” says Mr Shapiro.

“In fact, we’ve recently been awarded ‘best in market’ recognition for our consumer product in France where there’s a huge appetite for bio-control products.”

Mr Shapiro also points to the company’s expertise in slug control manufacture, continued innovation, and investment.

“Our team designed a high quality, rain-fast pellet – formulated for British weather using British wheat which is proving popular with farmers and consumers at home and in the EU,” he says.

“Our local sourcing of wheat and manufacturing methods means that our process has the lowest carbon footprint in the EU.”

The King’s Awards for Enterprise, previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, were renamed last year to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II’s by recognising outstanding UK businesses. The Award programme, now in its 58th year, is the most prestigious business award in the country.

As the garden retail sector gears up for a new September edition of Glee (10-12 September, NEC Birmingham), including a half century celebration for the leading annual exhibition, it has been confirmed that online registration is now live.

With registration open, buyers, buying teams and retail owners can start planning their time at the show, including finding out more about the 100+ new brands already signed up to exhibit this September, as well as the wealth of bellwether companies that exhibit at Glee each year. With more than 400+ exhibitors set to participate, Glee is the best place to see the latest new product development and bestselling lines, whilst gaining insight into consumer trends that will drive sales in garden centres throughout the coming season.

Registering for Glee 2024 is easier than ever. Simply visit www.gleebirmingham.com/visitor-registration and complete the short form to confirm your attendance. Once registered a visitors’ badge will be emailed two weeks before the show begins in September.

Nurturing newness in garden retail

This year, as Glee reflects on its 50-year history, a greater focus will be placed on the importance of newness within garden retail. Throughout the exhibition, a light will be shone on those emerging brands, new product solutions and wider market changes impacting our industry. These include the changing consumer demographics, environmental factors and lifestyle shifts that are forecast set the pace and direction of change as we enter the next 50 years of Glee.

Matthew Mein, Glee Event Director, said: “Glee’s role has always been to facilitate the growth of garden retail and this year’s show will be no different. Throughout the three days we’ll be celebrating the many ways that suppliers, manufacturers and retailers work to educate and inspire shoppers, with a special focus on the latest innovation and insight that is driving change and helping to set garden retail apart as a thriving and futureproofed industry.”

Find out more

Glee connects the garden industry to inspire change, drive growth, and promote innovation. To find out more or to register your interest in exhibiting, which will take place 10th – 12th September at the NEC, please visit www.gleebirmingham.com or call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

In an update for her 366 daily run for Greenfingers, Kate Ebbens announced: "April Showers!!  It has been a wet month to run in but also some beautiful crisp early morning sunrises.

The km are accumulating and so is the total – your continued support helps us to raise money for Greenfingers to create magical gardens for Children’s Hospices.

Completing ‘Not the London Marathon’ but a ‘10km run in London and a PB time!’

Thank you to Ruxley Manor Garden Centre for sponsoring me this month and had the opportunity to run at the garden centre with a photo opportunity with James, Andrew & some of the team.

Running my last day of the month in Edinburgh and looking forward to May.

https://www.justgiving.com/page/kate-ebbens-1701443565987

Deco-Pak has announced its sponsorship of Kate Ebbens' inspiring running challenge during May. 

Director Craig Hall said: “Kate has set an ambitious goal: to run every day, come rain or shine, at home or abroad. Through her sheer determination and resilience, Kate has already accomplished remarkable feats over the past four months, raising over £11,000 and covering a distance of 500km across various terrains and weather conditions. Her efforts are not just a testament to her physical endurance but also her commitment to supporting Greenfingers, a charity dedicated to enhancing the lives of life-limited children and their families through the creation of therapeutic and beautiful gardens at hospices across the UK.

“Kate's journey is supported by a community of garden centres and suppliers, including ourselves, Deco-Pak for the month of May. Her dedication, wearing company T-Shirts including our own alongside her Greenfingers shirt, showcases the collective spirit of the horticultural industry.

“As Kate….and the industry as a whole looks forward to the warmer, sunnier days ahead Deco-Pak stand with her in anticipation and support. By sponsoring Kate, Deco-Pak aims not only to help maintain her morale but also to raise awareness and funds for Greenfingers Charity.

“We encourage everyone to visit Kate’s JustGiving page. Donating is simple, secure, and direct, ensuring that every penny goes towards continuing the invaluable work of building magical gardens for children's hospices. Join us in supporting Kate’s incredible journey and Greenfingers Charity's mission to bring joy and respite to children and families during challenging times.”

The team at Notcutts Garden Centre Woodbridge, in Suffolk, were honoured to be involved in a local project creating a special Garden of Remembrance at the Ipswich Town Football Club (ITFC) stadium.

The project commemorates those whose ashes had been interred within the original football pitch soil, which was sensitively moved to the garden following a replacement of the pitch in June 2023. The garden now provides a peaceful space where supporters can visit and reflect. It has been well attended throughout the Championship season, and the planting has just been refreshed for a bold blue and white look through the summer months.

Notcutts, the national family-run garden centre group, were invited to bring the Garden of Remembrance to life, which was a particularly special honour for Notcutts Plant Buyer and lifelong ITFC fan Stuart Andrews.

The garden centres around stone planters which will be engraved with the names of all those whose ashes were interred on the original pitch. Notcutts role was to design the planting and creatively reflect ITFC’s iconic vision of blue and white.

Stuart said: “I’ve been an avid ITFC fan for 45 years and I still enjoy the game every week. It was a true privilege to be involved in the Garden of Remembrance and I hope we’ve created something that fans can be proud of.

“We all wanted the garden to honour ITFC’s iconic blue and white vision. Although the garden opened in November, we have just replanted with seasonal flowering varieties like bright blue Agapanthus, which will keep the garden looking colourful throughout the summer. We also planted three striking 12-feet-tall silver birch trees, evergreens like Crenata ‘Glory Gem’ pruned into a football shape, and Festuca Glauca ‘Intense Blue’, aptly named to honour ITFC supporters.

“Football and plants are the two biggest things in my life, so the Garden of Remembrance was a really special project for me personally. Through my 37-year career in horticulture I have loved discovering new varieties and planting styles, and it’s fantastic to share that knowledge with gardeners and to demonstrate creative planting through community projects like this.”

As ITFC play their final home game of the Championship season on Saturday (4 May), with promotion to the Premier League looking likely, supporters attending the Portman Road stadium are encouraged to visit the new garden and share the moment with loved ones and in memory of fans no longer with us. The ITFC Garden of Remembrance is located on the corner of the Sir Alf Ramsey Stand and Cobbold Stand and is open for visitors on matchdays and throughout the week.

For more information about Notcutts and their 19 garden centres across the country, visit www.notcutts.co.uk

As Bents Garden & Home welcomes the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT) as its new charity of the year, it can also announce a fantastic amount raised during 2023 and has presented the Motor Neurone Disease Association with a cheque for £34,266.80

A team from the MNDA South Lancashire branch (covering Warrington, Wigan, St Helens and Leigh) visited Bents to accept the donation which will be used to support the charity’s extensive care programme and network of 22 care centres, which provide coordinated multi-disciplinary care which has been shown to improve quality of life and life expectancy for those with MND.   

They were joined for the occasion by Helen Crowther from CAFT, the Centre’s 2024 Charity of the Year and a place which is full of fun and laughter for children whose lives are impacted by illness, disability or social disadvantage.  

Says Matthew Bent, Managing Director at Bents Garden & Home:  “We’d like to say a huge thank you to all our customers and colleagues who have helped throughout the year to make our fundraising campaign for MNDA such a success.  Not only are we able to present the charity with this fantastic donation, but we also hope this year’s partnership has helped to raise awareness of MND and help all those living with or affected by the condition.

“We are now looking forward to working Helen and the team at CAFT.  I have no doubt our colleagues and customers will once again take up the challenge and help us raise an incredible amount for this fantastic local charity.”  

Supported by celebrity patrons including John Bishop and Jason Manford, CAFT offers day visits and residential breaks with friendly, safe and engaging activities for young children who have suffered hardships from a young age.  Based in the heart of Cheshire, the charity was established in 1985 as a place where they can escape the trauma of every day life for a few days and simply enjoy being children again.

The team at Yorkshire Garden Centres is celebrating after raising over £24,000 for its 2023 Charity of the Year, Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

The four sites at Tong, Tingley, Otley and Bingley had aimed to raise £19,000 for the independent charity that relies solely on donations to provide its lifesaving rapid response emergency service but exceeded their target by over 27% to raise £24,253.

The Charity of the Year fundraising is managed by a committee led by the People and Culture team. YGC's People and Culture's Sustainability Lead, Steph Harrison said: "It costs Yorkshire Air Ambulance £19,000 every single day to keep its two helicopters in the sky and saving lives across Yorkshire. Our fundraising has not only covered one full day of flying but has also covered one extra mission which is absolutely fantastic. Thanks to our fabulous team, customers and supporters for helping us to make this possible."

Yorkshire Air Ambulance's regional fundraiser for West Yorkshire, Helen Berriman is delighted with Yorkshire Garden Centre's donation: "All at the Yorkshire Air Ambulance would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for Yorkshire Garden Centres for their amazing contribution to the charity over their last 12 months. From bucket collections in the centres and hosting our recycling banks to employees of the centre braving our challenge events, the team have been an invaluable support.

"At the start of the year their target of £19,000.00, the cost of a day's service for the charity, seemed a scary task to some however, their willingness to try new things like the Grinch parties in Grasshoppers, they have smashed their target, raising a remarkable sum for our charity of over £24k. This generous donation will play a significant role in enabling Yorkshire Air Ambulance to continue its life-saving missions across the region."

Since Tong Garden Centre was acquired in 2015, the team and supporters have raised over £80,000 for charity. Previous beneficiaries of the Charity of the Year initiative include Forget Me Not children's hospice, Luke's Lads, Butterflies Mental Health, The Cellar Trust, Candlelighters and National Literacy Trust. In addition, the team has supported hundreds of smaller charities in the local community through its Kindness Pot initiatives.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance's two Airbus H145 D3 helicopters are based at RAF Topcliffe near Thirsk and Nostell ASU, Wakefield. Due to the location of the airbases, its crew can reach 90% of Yorkshire's population within 20 minutes.

For the third year running, The Bransford Webbs Plant Company is supporting the Schools Garden Challenge at RHS Malvern Spring Festival 2024 through the donation of impulse and flowering plants. The organisers took delivery of over £12,000 worth of stock last Friday for the children to use when completing their garden builds.

For 2024, eleven schools are taking part in the challenge to build a 4m x 4m garden based on this year’s theme of ‘The Magic of Music: Choose a song or musical to bring to life in a garden to make your heart sing!’. Encouraging the children to gain valuable hands-on experience with plants and horticulture, they must design and build their garden and also grow a proportion of the plants. As with the main show gardens, they will be judged by the RHS, and awards handed out at a special awards ceremony for the children during the Thursday.

The Bransford Webbs Plant Company relish the opportunity to support the Schools Garden Challenge each year, which inspires local children to become involved in horticulture and gain the amazing experience of being part of a renowned RHS show in their local area.

“Seeing the hard work and creative designs the children produce is so inspiring,” commented David Chilvers, Sales and Marketing Director. “The next generation of gardeners are our future, if we can sow the seeds of horticulture now, who knows which of these youngsters could be the next Adam Frost or Alan Titchmarsh.”

G Plants, a leading innovator in growing gifts, seeds, and garden sundries, is excited to announce the launch of its Autumn Winter lines of indoor grow sets and planters under its renowned BEES Gifts and Green Ribbon brands. With a focus on eco-friendliness and convenience, retailers cannot miss out on these products that are designed to bring the joy of gardening into any home and are perfect for Christmas gifting opportunities.

A popular Christmas favourite, the BEES Gifts Amaryllis Indoor Gift Set (RRP: £15.99) stands out as a sustainable and stylish highlight, featuring an eco-wood planter made from recycled natural by-products of wood and containing up to 33% recycled material. This thoughtful design highlights G Plants’ commitment to eco-friendly products and promotes sustainable gardening, providing consumers with a way to make environmentally responsible choices while adding beauty to their interiors during the winter months. The planter's modern design, with its double-layered gold and anthracite grey colouring, complements contemporary interior décor.

In addition, the brand-new BEES Gifts Calla Lily Indoor Gift Set (RRP: £15.99) brings elegance to rooms in an eco-wood planter, offering a perfect balance of aesthetic appeal and sustainability, appealing to those who prioritise eco-friendly options in-store and in their home.

Adding a touch of spring to any indoor space, G Plants is introducing the Green Ribbon Ceramic Crocus Bowl (RRP £8.99) and Sphere Planter (RRP: £7.99). These stylish planters are designed to complement modern interiors while providing the perfect environment for indoor plants to thrive.  In two different shapes, retailers can take advantage of the Christmas run-up with these growing sets which make fantastic gifts for garden enthusiasts, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a unique present.

Bonsai growing has seen a boost in popularity due to its therapeutic nature tapping into the gardening for mental health trend.  Retailers cannot go wrong with the BEES® Sweet Gum Bonsai Set (RRP: £8.99) which offers consumers everything they need to get started, from seeds, the pot, soil, and instructions.  And with colours, ranging from orange to red and purple, this unique bonsai will appeal to anyone who wants to inject colour into the home.

G Plants is also proud to present the new BEES® Cactus Grow Pot which offers year-round sales appeal to garden centres, whilst providing interest to consumers looking for houseplants with a unique appearance and low maintenance requirements.   With six different varieties and all you need to grow in an attractive, embossed ceramic planter, gifting is never easier.

The BEES® Polkadot Grow Pot of Hypoestes is designed to elevate plant displays and provide a reliable source of revenue for garden centres, providing consistent sales regardless of the season.  For homeowners, the plant provides a vibrant pop of colour for the home and is an accessible and easy-to-maintain choice for new gardeners who may be working within a budget.

And for those who love a touch of quirkiness with their plants, the BEES Gifts Novelty French Bulldog Crocus Indoor Grow Set (RRP £9.99), is a charming addition to any indoor space.  The set comes with a peat-free, coir growing medium which will appeal to both retailers and consumers who are seeking a more sustainable plant production.  Great for impulse sales, this set includes everything needed to grow vibrant crocus ‘Maître Blue’, packaged in a grey, white or turquoise ceramic planter in an adorable French Bulldog design.

"We are thrilled to introduce our latest collection of indoor grow sets and planters, which combine style, sustainability, fun and convenience," said Daniel Howarth, Managing Director at G Plants. "With these products, we aim to inspire more people to embrace indoor gardening while making conscious choices for the planet."

Retailers interested in stocking G Plants' new Autumn/Winter range are encouraged to contact the G Plants Sales team at sales@gplants.com or phone 01254 790350. For more information about G Plants and its range of eco-friendly gardening solutions, please visit www.gplants.com

Milwaukee Tool launches the M18 BRUSHLESS TELESCOPIC SHEARS, providing fast, clean pruning, eliminating the need for manual pulling. These new telescoping shears enhance productivity, allowing professionals to get more done.

When compared to the manual application, the M18 BRUSHLESS TELESCOPIC SHEARS reduce peak muscle activation completing challenging applications faster than manual solutions.

Optimised for extended reach bypass pruning to deliver the best cut quality for vegetation health, the M18 BRUSHLESS TELESCOPIC SHEARS provides the power to cut up to 44 mm branches. The shears feature an ergonomic adjustment collar, allowing for quick and easy length adjustments from 2.1 metres collapsed to 3 metres fully extended.

The attachment-free extended reach of up to 3 metres enhances the ability to complete long-reach applications. When paired with M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT 5.5 Ah battery pack, the telescopic shears can complete up to 2,000 cuts in 2.5 cm softwood per charge in 44 mm branches.

Milwaukee Tool is committed to improving productivity by providing performance-driven and trade-focused solutions so users can perform an entire day’s work on one battery system. The new M18 BRUSHLESS TELESCOPIC SHEAR is fully compatible with the entire M18 line, now offering more than 290 power tool solutions.

Specifications

M18 BRUSHLESS TELESCOPIC SHEARS

M18 BLTS-551

• Battery Type: Lithium-ion
• Battery System: M18
• Length: 2.1 – 3m
• Max. Cutting Capacity: 44 mm
• Telescopic
• Weight with Battery Pack: 6.4 kg (M18 HB5.5)
• Kit Includes: (1) M18 BRUSHLESS TELESCOPIC SHEARS, (1)
• M18 HB5.5 Battery Pack, (1) M12-18 FC Charger

Perfect Match:

Replacement Blades for M18 BLTS (4932493557)

To find out more about M18 BRUSHLESS TELESCOPIC SHEARS see video footage of it in action or to find your nearest store, click here or visit https://uk.milwaukeetool.eu/

Autumn Fair, retail’s leading seasonal showcase for the home, gift and fashion industries, has announced an exclusive partnership with Faire, Europe’s leading wholesale marketplace.

As Autumn Fair’s online marketplace of choice, Faire will help hundreds of exhibiting brands take orders on its platform from retailers attending the show. This collaboration will bridge online and offline wholesale for the first time in the UK and simplify the buying process for up to 20,000 independent retailers. 

Retailers at Autumn Fair will gain access to Faire's extensive global network of brands, helping them to discover unique products, streamline their buying process and benefit from 60-day payment terms available on Faire. Faire will also be offering new retailers a 50 percent discount on their first order to help them easily shop at the show and beyond.

Exhibitors who use Faire will be featured in a new collection on Faire’s website, increasing their visibility among Faire’s hundreds of thousands of global retailers. A coordinated campaign will take place throughout the summer to show retailers and brands how to leverage this collaboration most effectively.

This partnership between the UK’s largest wholesale businesses came from a desire from retailers to experience the best of both in-person and online buying. Trade shows like Autumn Fair offer buyers the joy of discovery; to touch and feel products, get inspired, and network. But in an increasingly digital industry, retailers are also seeking the reach and simplicity that Faire offers - to instantly connect with brands around the world, streamline their logistics, and manage their cash flow in one place.

Katie Holmes from Autumn Fair exhibitor Sting in the Tail highlights the synergy and benefits of the collaboration saying, “So much has changed since Brexit and Covid. After 30 years of exhibiting the need for us to reassess the way we support existing customers and find new ones was urgent. Since joining Faire our existing customers benefit from having an easy way to browse our products, place orders and have extended credit terms, particularly welcome in the current climate. As a business we have found many new customers who have never attended trade shows, had an online presence on a large marketplace and found a way, once again, to export to the EU and beyond. It does allow us to be in control. We accept orders placed on Faire and via our website. We can refuse Fair orders if they clash with existing customers, upload new products quickly and sort into seasonal or special interest collections.

“The synergy of exhibiting in person and selling on Faire gives us a presence in both worlds. They are both vital and complementary. This partnership will encourage the online only buyers to attend Autumn Fair and see all our products and encourage small, online, Faire-only suppliers to exhibit. It represents a resetting of the giftware trade marketplace.”

Charlotte Broadbent, UK Country Manager from Faire says, “As the largest global online wholesale marketplace, Faire hasconnected almost 1 million independent retailers with unique products. We are proud to partner with Autumn Fair to demonstrate how the UK’s two leading figures in the online and offline worlds can work together for the benefit of the industry. Together, we will help brands increase their sales and streamline their business, while enabling retailers to discover their next bestsellers.”

Jackson Szabo, Portfolio Director, Spring & Autumn Fair adds, “This exclusive partnership with Faire allows our exhibitors access to a considerable new audience of retailers and gives independent retailers the opportunity to engage directly with suppliers and explore new products showcased at Autumn Fair on Faire's platform. The partnership will empower independent retailers by offering them a broader range of unique products, fostering networking opportunities, and providing access to valuable resources and insights, ultimately helping them thrive in a competitive market while maintaining their individuality and community presence.”

In a tribute to a legacy of courage, Peter Beales Roses and the RNLI have come together to commemorate 200 years of service and dedication at this year’s RHS Chelsea (20-25 May). The launch of the new ‘With Courage’ rose will take place on Monday Press Day (20 May) with several iconic faces from Blue Peter who are synonymous with both British institutions with the ‘Lifeboat Appeal’.

Peter Beales Roses, renowned for their exquisite blooms and timeless beauty, have long been a symbol of resilience and strength, much like the brave men and women of the RNLI who risk their lives to save others at sea. And with the 200thanniversary of the RNLI taking place this year, Peter Beales is proud to launch ‘With Courage’ a carefully bred rose to reflect the spirit of courage and dedication exemplified by the RNLI, which serves as a lasting tribute to their noble mission.

The launch of ‘With Courage’ will see well-loved Blue Peter presenters on the Peter Beales stand, adding an extra layer of meaning to the celebration. Blue Peter has been a longstanding supporter of the RNLI, emphasising the importance of courage, resilience, and community spirit. Confirmed to attend so far are favourites, Valerie Singleton who was responsible for the first Lifeboat Appeal in 1967, Janet Ellis, Lindsey Russell and Anthea Turner.

'With Courage' is a modern classic floribunda, featuring coppery orange double flowers set against glossy mid-green foliage. The rose is compact and reaches a height of 3 feet and releases a delightful apple fragrance. The rose took six years to come to market, ensuring it meets the demands of modern gardens. With 20% of all sales benefiting the RNLI, sales of 'With Courage' are projected to raise £40,000 for the charity.

It will take centre stage on the Peter Beales stand, along with a real RNLI rib, surrounded by thousands of a sea of the most popular rose varieties. The exhibit will be at the beating heart of the Grand Pavilion, spanning an incredible 100 square metres with walkthrough access so visitors can surround themselves with the beautiful display and scent of the nation’s favourite flower.

The instantly recognisable rose-covered arches will welcome guests to the fragrant and sensory display which will encourage you to linger and enjoy the beauty of the flowers. As well as ‘With Courage,’ multiple coloured and scented varieties will come together in a breathtaking display, each reaching their height, and exhibited in different ways to showcase the vibrant blooms.

Marvel at the arches adorned with the deep crimson ‘Chevy Chase,’ the enchanting pure white ‘Rambling Rector,’ and the delightful ‘Paul's Himalayan Musk,’ as well as the majestic ‘Waterloo.’ Step further into the immersive display to encounter special varieties like ‘Rachel's Joy,’ ‘Highgrove,’ ‘Loyal Companion,’ ‘MacMillan Nurse,’ and ‘Pippin,’ each a living tribute to Peter Beales' legacy.

Experience the enchantment of old historical roses such as ‘Comte de Chambord,’ ‘White Pet,’ and the striking ‘Rosa Mundi.’ Obelisks stand tall, proudly presenting the ‘Siluetta’ range of patio climbers alongside the captivating ‘Purple Skyliner.’

With both Peter Beales and RNLI representatives on the stand, those visiting will have the opportunity to learn more about the RNLI's life-saving missions and Peter Beales Roses' rich heritage in rose breeding and cultivation. Actor and RNLI Ambassador Joanna Scanlon will also be on hand to speak about her experiences in open-water swimming and why the charity’s advice and help are so important.

The Commercial Horticultural Association (CHA) has announced its exhibitor line-up for GreenTech Amsterdam 11 to 13 June at RAI Amsterdam.

The UK exhibitors are set to meet global growers and breeders, who attend to learn more about how to grow and optimise production in vegetable, floriculture, glass and open field horticulture.

GreenTech is the number one international horticulture technology platform, where industry professionals from across the world come to connect, network and share knowledge. In 2023, the event attracted 11,500 visitors to see the 540 exhibitors from over 128 countries.

“We are delighted to bring a group of British exporters to this innovative event once more. Our companies demonstrate the creativity and ingenuity, for which UK agri-tech is renowned the world over," commented Emma Brazier, Event Manager for the CHA. “The UK exhibitors and the CHA team are looking forward to meeting a diversity of growers and breeders."

CHA will have an industry information stand within the UK exhibitor group where members of the team can provide information on the UK horticulture market and assist international growers and breeders with contacts for UK exporters. UK representatives are also welcome to visit the group and learn the many benefits of becoming a member of the CHA. 

The UK companies are:

Commercial Horticultural Association 

Hall 5 Stand 05.112J

T: +44 (0) 1959 565995

E: info@cha-hort.com

W: www.cha-hort.com

The British trade association for manufacturers and suppliers of plants, products and services to commercial horticultural growers throughout the world. Visitors to the stand will receive a warm welcome, refreshments and will be able to find out more about the comprehensive range of products and services available from UK companies. 

Concert Bio

Hall 5 Stand 05.112J

T: +44 (0) 7507 704196

E: contact@concert.bio

W: www.concert.bio

Products and services to enable hydroponic growers to manage their microbiome

Concert Bio works with hydroponic growers to harness their microbiomes. The firm uses next generation sequencing to provide a holistic analysis of the microbes in growers’ systems, from harmful to beneficial. It is developing microbial products specifically tailored to hydroponic systems to support microbiome management.

Delta-T Devices            

Hall 5 Stand 05.108D

T: +44 (0) 1638 742 922

E: sales@delta-t.co.uk

W: www.delta-t.co.uk

Research-grade environmental measurement sensors, data loggers, and wireless solutions for Agritech

Delta-T will be exhibiting:

• A preview of its forthcoming wireless solution, Celora, a powerful and flexible SDI-12 based system that enables simple effective construction of wireless sensor networks. Celora seamlessly integrates with the DeltaLINK-Cloud online data management and viewing platform.

• The latest SDI-12 multi-parameter soil sensor, the WET150, which provides accurate moisture, EC, and temperature measurement. It comes with 5-year warranty.

• The portable WET Sensor Kit, which measures substrate conditions with speed & precision (including accurate pore water conductivity).

• The PR2 Profile Probe, which measures moisture profile measurements down to 1 metre, and can be used portably or installed. 

The Advanced Plant Growth Centre                  

Hall 5 Stand 5.114

T: +44 (0) 844 928 5428 

E: info@apgc.org.uk 

W: www.apgc.org.uk

Bridging research and industry, the company offers advanced plant sciences and phenotyping solutions for a sustainable future

There is a comprehensive suite of services designed to bridge the gap between research and industry in the agri-food sector. 

Core offerings include vertical farms, next-generation controlled environment facilities such as growth cabinets, growth rooms, speed-breeding facilities, polytunnels and glasshouses with specialist lighting and environmental controls. 

Additionally, the high-throughput phenotyping platform allows for detailed crop analysis in controlled conditions. The post-harvest storage facility offers unique, scalable solutions for crop storage and supply chain enhancement, while the vertical growth tower enables high-density, year-round crop production. The APGC offers access to advanced equipment for molecular-level plant analysis, enhancing precision agriculture, phenotyping, and the creation of resilient crop varieties. This innovation centre supports a sustainable and climate-resilient future for the agrifood, pharmaceutical, and environmental conservation sectors.

INDO Lighting              

Hall 2 Stand 2.104

T: +44 (0) 7887 428 448

E: info@indolighting.com

W: www.indolighting.com

Horticultural LED grow lights proudly and passionately designed and made in the UK

The INDO horticultural range covers every lighting requirement a grower could need. For glasshouses, the Element is the perfect replacement for 400, 600 or 1000W HPS units operating Direct Drive® technology powering the luminaire with no LED driver. In addition, there is a high-power TerraLink toplights up to 800W LED and for vertical farming, the 29W VertiLink is the perfect option with its low profile design and fully dimmable functions. For higher power vertical farming, such as cannabis, there is also the HortiLink, which is a 250W unit and can also be used as a toplight. These products are designed and manufactured in the UK and have a variety of spectrums available.

World Bee Day takes place on 20th May and aims to highlight the role that bees play in our ecosystem. The UK and Ireland are home to over 270 species of bees which are essential pollinators, responsible for the growth of many fruits, vegetables, and flowers. However, bee populations worldwide are declining due to factors like habitat loss and pesticide use but leading brand Johnsons Lawn Seed has the answer for retailers that will provide our pollinators with a much-needed source of food and nectar.

With the theme of “Bee engaged with youth” recognising how the younger generation is key to addressing the decline of our beneficial insects  Johnsons Celebration Wildflower Tins stands out as a top choice for retailers who want to do their bit to help protect these stripey biodiversity champions?

Filled with a mixture of 15 wildflower seeds, without any additional bulking agents, bees can enjoy Paper Daisy, Pheasant’s Eye, Pot Marigold, Cornflower, Cosmos, Painted Daisy, Dwarf Morning Glory, Chinese Forget-Me-Not, California Poppy, Fineflower, Farewell to Spring, Baby’s Breath, Candy Tuft, Love-in-as- Mist and Corn Poppy.

Celebration tins of wildflower seed contain enough to cover an area of up to 15m2, which makes them a great value purchase, keeping the children entertained over half term. A quick win for both garden centres and consumers as in just eight weeks, a garden will come to life with buzzing bees and fluttering butterflies with minimal effort.

Johnsons Country Meadow Wildflower Mix has been developed specifically for retailers to sell to consumers to attract pollinators, as well as help those who want to seed their lawns.

The flowers in the lawn mix, such as Birdsfoot Trefoil, Common Vetch, Meadow Buttercup, Oxeye Daisy, and others, provide different colours, textures and heights, which can create an attractive and dynamic meadow. Additionally, these wildflowers are known for their adaptability to various soil types and climates, making the mix a good choice for a wide range of gardens and lawns, creating a thriving ecosystem that supports pollinators throughout the growing season.

Guy Jenkins, Consumer Manager at  Johnsons Lawn Seed said: “This World Bee Day, retailers should not miss out and stocking up on Johnson's Wildflower seed mixes. Both  Celebration and Country Meadow mix can help shoppers create a haven for bees and other pollinators while adding beauty and biodiversity to an outdoor space. Not only will the wildflower ranges create a positive impact in-store but also on World Bee Day and beyond.”

Bursting with colour and diversity, the Celebration mix is a great impulse buy at an accessible price point of £9.99, providing the most novice of gardeners to do their bit to help the bees.  Country Meadow Mix is available for £14.99.

If you want to start stocking Johnsons Lawn Seed’s portfolio, then please call your local sales agent or visit the website http://www.johnsonslawnseed.com/product-range.aspx

As the Glee exhibition gets set to celebrate half a century at the heart of the garden retail sector, the organising team is looking for your input. In the past 50 years, Glee has seen thousands of exhibitors pass through its doors, with hundreds of thousands of new products launched since the show’s humble beginnings in 1974. To celebrate the newness and passion that have shaped Glee and the broader garden centre market during this time, the hunt is now on to find the people and product that have driven the most change over the past five decades.

Whether advocating for sustainability or using their influence to increase the reach of horticulture, many diverse people have left their mark on the world of garden retail. They might be suppliers, retailers, industry pundits, or those who have undertaken roles across the full spectrum. Whatever their role, all of them have been integral to Glee's growth, and their work has helped maintain gardening as one of the nation's best-loved pastimes.

Or perhaps the best memories of Glee involve a larger-than-life character. This person may play a starring role in Glee’s memoirs, providing endless smiles, friendly advice and happy recollections from those that knew them pacing the aisles of shows gone by.

Like the people who create them, gardening products have also generated pivotal moments of change. From finally tackling an age-old problem, formulating an innovative bestseller opportunity, opening a meaningful dialogue about gardening's impact on the planet, or simply using technology to make gardening more accessible for the modern consumer, there have been many hero products over the past half century.

Now is the time for Glee's audience to vote for their own heroes and celebrate the people and product they think have had the most impact on Glee's future and that of the garden retail sector.

How to vote

Working in partnership with Glee's media partner, Garden Trade News, nominations are now open using this link. The deadline for making nominations is 31st May.

• Most Influential Person of the last 50 years, click here
• The Character of Glee's 50 years, click here
• Hero Product of the last 50 years, click here

Or send your nominations by e-mail to: trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk  (All nominations will be dealt with in the strictest confidence)

Following the nominations round, a panel of judges will draw a shortlist of names and products before readers of GTN Xtra can place their final votes throughout June and July.

The winners will be announced onsite at Glee 2024, the 50th edition of which will run from Tuesday, 10^th September, to Thursday, 12^th September, at the NEC in Birmingham.

Matthew Mein, Event Director at Glee, said: "The gardening world has changed so much from the early 70s, with each decade ringing in exciting new trends and innovation. Throughout all of this, Glee has maintained a constant presence, year-after-year providing a place where the garden retail sector can come together to inspire, network and educate. Now, we want to celebrate those who have left a mark in a fun and reflective look back on Glee's half-century. We're excited to see the nominations, find out the eventual winners, and are prepared for a tidal wave of nostalgia and questionable haircuts!"

Glee connects the garden industry to inspire change, drive growth, and promote innovation. To find out more or to register your interest in exhibiting, please visit www.gleebirmingham.com or call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

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The 11th May edition of AG (in shops from Tuesday 7th May) sees an important milestone for the world’s oldest (and friendliest) gardening magazine. Since re-launching last November after a flurry of media attention, the much-loved gardening magazine is going from strength-to-strength with award-winning environmental gardening journalist and entrepreneurial editor, Kim Stoddart at the helm.

Launched on the 3rd May 1884, Amateur Gardening has been supporting and encouraging families of gardeners for generations, giving its readers helpful, practical accessible advice, while celebrating the simple, yet profound pleasures of gardening.

This bumper birthday issue (with more content and three packets of free seed worth £8.50) features a strong family of expert contributors old and new and looks to the gardening past for inspiration for a more resilient and sustainable future for us all. Just some of the highlights include:

• Former AG deputy editor Alan Titchmarsh with a trip down memory lane special.
• Toby Buckland - the TV presenter, and all-round national treasure returns to the AG family fold.
• Horticulture Week magazine editor, Matthew Appleby writes about gardening trends through the ages.

Plus, the usual merry band of AG expert contributors including Ruth Hayes, Bob Flowerdew, Graham Clarke, Anne Swithinbank, Lucy Chamberlain, Val Bourne, Sue Bradley, Michael Perry, Beth Chatto Gardens, John Negus, Michael Palmer, Andrew Oldham and Adam Kirtland, Liz Zorab, Chris Collins and Garden Organic.

Editor Kim Stoddart explains: “ The flurry of media attention that the closure of this national gardening gem of a magazine generated in September last year helped capture the attention of Kelsey Media who stepped in to save it. I was thrilled and honoured to be chosen as the editor to take AG forward and to help ensure the magazine remains as relevant to gardeners today as it was 140 years ago. Gardening styles, attitudes and concerns may be very different now to what they were in 1884, but AG’s mission remains unchanged, to make gardening more rewarding and enjoyable for all its readers.  The spirit of AG continues rejuvenated, working towards a brighter green future for us all, together. “      

Former deputy editor Alan Titchmarsh MBE said;  ’I was relieved and delighted when 'AG', as we always called it, was saved from extinction.  I had happy years there, becoming Deputy Editor in 1978, and have always rated the quality of the contributors and the hands-on practicality of its advice.  Congratulations on your 140th birthday 'AG' from an old and devoted admirer.

Branded Garden Products (BGP) has announced a series of strategic new appointments to its area sales team. The appointments demonstrate the Group’s commitment to growing its market share with key garden centre customers across the UK.

Simon Hull joined BGP in December after a successful period at Fiskars tools. Having spent his entire career focused on business development within the North East region, Simon now covers this area for BGP. Simon commented “I am delighted to join such an iconic and progressive horticulture business, and I look forward to seeing faces old and new.”

Chris Tongue joined BGP in January after almost 30 years in the horticultural industry, most recently as a territory manager for STAX. Chris covers BGP’s North West and Central Northern regions and comments “I am excited to join BGP at a new period of growth with exciting new launches."

Phil Trantham joined in BGP’s South Central region. Phil has spent his entire career in the horticultural sales industry at Solus and latterly STAX. Phil commented “I am excited to work with such iconic brands as Suttons and Thompson & Morgan. I cannot wait to meet our customers and grow business in the region.”

Commenting on the new appointments to his team, Nick Walton, BGP Sales Director, said “Over the past 6 months we have undertaken a full review of our sales structure and have made these changes to best support our customers with their growing needs. The calibre of candidates we are able to attract is testament to the power of our brands, coupled with the scope and ambition of BGP. I’m delighted to welcome our new recruits and look forward to working together.”

With only one month left to enter the prestigious RECOUP Awards 2024, RECOUP, the leading independent authority and trusted voice on plastics resource efficiency and recycling, is urging all organisations and individuals in the plastics value chain to submit their entries before the deadline on 28 June.

The awards are FREE to enter and celebrate excellence in plastics resource efficiency and recycling.

There are three award categories and no limit on the number of entries: 

1. Best Plastic Product Development for Recyclability or Re-Use.
2. Best Innovation in Equipment or Technology.
3. Recycled Plastic Product of the Year.

The awards will be presented at the RECOUP Awards & Pre-conference Networking Dinner on Wednesday 25 September 2024, at the Holiday Inn, Peterborough West and will recognise and celebrate the innovative and inspiring projects, products and initiatives that have helped to drive the circularity of plastics for a more sustainable future. 

Rebecca Davis, Membership & Events Manager at RECOUP comments: “We believe that this is an excellent opportunity for organisations and individuals to showcase their achievements and be recognised for their contributions to the circular economy for plastics."

To apply for the awards, please visit the RECOUP website and complete the simple online entry form.

The awards are followed by RECOUP’s not-to-be-missed event of the year, The RECOUP Conference, which is held at Kingsgate Conference Centre, Peterborough on Thursday 26 September. Sponsored by Berry Global, WRAP, and others the RECOUP Conference attracts delegates from the entire plastics and wider sustainability value chain. Tickets can be booked via the RECOUP website. 

Limited awards and conference sponsorship opportunities are also still available, please email membership@recoup.orgfor more information or if you require any assistance with the award entry.

The 2024 GIMA Charity Golf Day will be returning to Belton Woods Hotel and Golf Course on Thursday, 6th June to play the Woods Course.  The annual event is always a great way to spend time with colleagues, customers and friends rounded off with a BBQ outside (weather permitting).  

PLEASE NOTE: Accommodation cannot be guaranteed after the 9th of May - book now to avoid disappointment.

Click here for more details.

Plant pot innovator elho has welcomed four new sales representatives to its UK team, marking a refreshed and refocused approach ahead of the 2024/2025 season.

The newly appointed sales force will play a pivotal role in growing the B Corp’s presence in the market, fostering customer relationships, building strategic partnerships and driving revenue.

Jonathon Holden returns to elho as area sales manager for the North West and North East regions, having previously worked as sales representative at the company for over four years previously and since expanding his expertise at gardening tools brand, AMES.

Matthew Young, formerly of the garden tools manufacturer Fiskars, will take on the role of area sales manager for the East of England and Midlands area, while new sales representative Gary Boulton brings an extensive knowledge of the category, having previously worked at the likes of Mr Fothergill’s and Apta Pottery.

Looking after the South West, Andy Harding will work as an agent for elho, having previously held the position of account manager and since gaining several years of further industry experience at Gardman and WHM Pet Group.

David Nicholson, UK, NEU & ROW sales manager for elho, commented: “We’re excited to introduce our new UK sales team members and welcome them to the elho family. Their diverse backgrounds and proven track records in sales and customer service make them invaluable additions to our team, and they each have a breadth of experience in our sector that I’m sure will be of benefit to our trade partners and relationships.

“At elho, we are always innovating and expanding our product portfolio to provide retailers with a wide range of sustainable and stylish collections, and I’m sure that their combined expertise and passion will ensure we continue to deliver exceptional service while driving revenue.”

Offering a wide range of indoor and outdoor innovations, elho products are available in major garden centres and retail chains across the country including Dobbies, Blue Diamond, Hillier Garden Centres and Nottcutts Garden Centres.

All elho products are now made from 100 percent recycled materials using renewable energy, including that generated by elho’s own wind turbine located at its headquarters in Tilburg, Holland.

To find out more about elho visit www.elho.com or to discuss stocking the brand, contact your area sales manager:

Andy Harding andyhardingsales@hotmail.com 07824 975463

Gary Boulton gary.boulton@elho.nl 07760 942210

Matthew Young matthew.young@elho.nl Mobile: 07990 850207

Jonathon Holden jonathon.holden@elho.nl Mobile: 08990 746979

British people are wasting £2.9 million on their gardens, thanks to a low understanding of their flood risk, according to new data published today by Flood Re, the joint initiative between the UK government and the insurance industry.    

Despite the cost-of-living crisis, Brits spent £17.6 billion on their gardens last year – an average of £402 per UK adult – but a low awareness of their flood risk means they’re currently wasting £2.9M on their gardens, which are being battered by heavy rain and surface water flooding.   

In total, 5.4 million (1 in 8) UK adults with gardens have experienced the devastating impact of flooding on their green spaces.  

With February 2024 being the wettest on record for over 250 years and 1 in 4 homes in the UK at risk of floodingi, this National Gardening Week Flood Re wants people to start getting smart about their garden spending.  

High Risk, Low Awareness  

The data also reveals only 5% of people living in high-risk areas could correctly identify their flood risk. Worryingly, 68% of people in high-risk flood areas think their flood risk is low. This low awareness of flood risk means green fingered Brits are at risk of investing time and money in their gardens that could be washed way.   

The research shows Brits are not taking the crucial steps they need to protect their homes and gardens. Indeed, 90% of homeowners, rising to 93% in high and mid flood risk areas, haven’t taken any steps to make their homes and gardens more flood resilient. Despite the extreme weather conditions, this doesn’t look to be changing, with only 9% of homeowners planning to add flood resilience measures to their homes and gardens in the next year.  

Furthermore, almost half (46%) of people in high and mid flood risk areas said flood risk had “no impact at all” on where they have chosen to live.  

Flood Devastation  

The picture couldn’t be more different for those who have experienced flooding in their home and garden, with 62% claiming risk of flooding has since impacted where they choose to live.  

 
With 41% of those who have experienced flooding considering implementing flood resilience modifications (compared to only 4% of Brits who haven’t experienced flooding), Flood Re is on hand to offer easy, cost-effective ways to smartly invest in your garden as a flood prevention tool.  

Gardens are an important and cost-effective first line of defence to flooding. Properly managed, domestic gardens can channel, absorb and store large quantities of water, which means the risk to buildings and property is mitigated. The risk of localised and downstream flooding is reduced too. 

From Roots to Resilience   

Choosing a variety of plants such as willow, water mint and astilbe can help ensure your garden can thrive in varying water conditions and withstand the challenges posed by climate change, from drought to inundation.  

Similarly, slowing the flow of water into your garden will significantly reduce local flooding risks by diverting rainwater away from infrastructure, easing the burden on drainage systems and avoiding costly upgrades down the line.  

To demonstrate how to harness your garden’s natural flood resilience, Flood Re are teaming up with leading garden designer Dr Ed Barsley and Naomi Slade and, to unveil the Flood Resilient Garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May. The garden has been carefully designed to show how people can protect their gardens and homes against extreme weather and learn how to increase their flood resilience from the ground up. 

Build Back Better 

In the event of a flood, Flood Re’s Build Back Better scheme allows eligible customers with specific home insurers to receive up to £10,000 as part of a claim. 

The amount is meant for home and garden improvements that go beyond basic repairs, focusing on enhancing the property’s resilience against future floods. 

Andy Bord, Chief Executive Officer, Flood Re said: “The research clearly shows there is a job to be done to educate people about their flood risk. Gardens are cherished spaces that bring joy to so many of us, so why wouldn’t we want to not only protect them from harm but actively harness their power to prevent them from future damage? Your garden can be both beautiful and resilient to extreme wet weather. We’re hopeful this research and the Flood Resilient Garden will help people think about their flood risk and consider the plants and garden features that will both endure a flood and help reduce destruction and distress to their home when a flood hits.”   

Dr. Ed Barsley, Environmental Design Expert said: “The research clearly shows that the majority of people aren’t aware that their garden or home is at flood risk of flooding until it’s too late. However, what's positive to note is that there are a variety of practical and cost-effective measures that gardener owners can take to save themselves emotional and financial stress further down the line.” 

Nikki Stocks, 63 from Lancashire said: "In the chaos of the flooding, I felt overwhelmed, unsure of how to safeguard my home and happiness due to financial restrictions. It’s affected my mental health because now I’m always anxious when it rains and how bad it could get for my home".  

Atlantic Mats, which designs and creates hard-wearing, eco-friendly washable doormats, has been licensed by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) to produce The Bloom Collection, a range of beautiful doormats and runners using designs inspired by the RHS Lindley Collections, the world’s finest collection of botanical art.

The Bloom Collection features Atlantic Mats’ renowned Coir Mats and Ocean Mats ranges. Coir Mats are made in India from sustainable coconut fibre with a natural latex backing and are hand-printed. Ocean Mats are a washable indoor mat range of doormats and runners. They are made in the UK from 100% recycled PET (recycled plastic bottles) and come with a rubber backing which has 65% recycled content. 

There are six designs in the Coir doormat range and two Coir runner mat designs. In the Ocean Mats range, there are six doormat-sized mats and two runners. Both the Coir and Ocean mat runners are larger, matching versions of the doormat.

The Coir range features a wide variety of florals, leaf designs and geometric patterns based on works from the RHS Lindley Collections. The Spring Flowers design, for example, uses imagery by Caroline Maria Applebee, a renowned and prolific early 19th century watercolour artist. The Wall Tile design is based on a tile from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo made by pioneering gardening design genius Gertrude Jekyll, while Duomo Milan is a grey and pink tile pattern from the marble pavement of the Duomo in Milan, drawn by Herbert Jekyll, Gertrude Jekyll's brother. The Wisteria design, meanwhile, is taken from a Japanese collection of artworks, and the Starburst design is based on Parterre and Knot Garden styles from the 1600s and 1700s that reflect the trend for geometric design.

The Ocean Mats again feature a mix of florals, geometrics and leaf patterns. The floral patterns (Spring Garden and Flower Border) are both by Caroline Maria Applebee, while the Caption and Pathways designs are based on Knot Garden and Parterre styles. Also featured is Filigree Leaf, a Gertrude Jekyll design for wallpaper from her famous Designs for Carving scrapbook, which contains sketches, designs, notes and tracings on gardening and architectural themes.

Recycling and sustainability are also themes of this collection. Most of the materials Atlantic Mats uses for the RHS collection are waste plastics which would normally end up in landfill. The Coir Mats are made from sustainable coconut fibre.

The Bloom Collection will launch at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show (21 - 25 May 2024). Both ranges will be available directly from the Atlantic Mats webshop from May. The Ocean Mats will also be at high street retail from May. Target outlets will include major stores, garden centres, independent home and furnishing shops and specialist gift retailers.

And there’s much more to come! A range of indoor and outdoor rugs is planned for Spring 2025, while additions to the Ocean and Coir ranges – and further new products – will appear in 2025.

The market for the mats and runners is a wide one. Atlantic Mats products have long enjoyed a strong market among female homeowners who have an interest in gardening and interiors. However, the products also have a strong appeal to younger consumers who are seeking out sustainable home products for smaller spaces and who appreciate design-led and decorative items.

Atlantic Mats was founded by Susan Baker, who has worked in the textile industry for over 35 years, and her husband Mark in 2021 with the aim of developing sustainable, high-quality, durable homewares. Ocean Mats in particular are made from waste plastics such as recycled bottles and other plastics diverted from landfill waste. All the mats produced by Atlantic Mats are washable and designed to last. They also dry quickly.

Susan Baker, Managing Director Atlantic Mats, says: “We pride ourselves on mats that do a great job and are sustainable but also look wonderful – and few partners appreciate this more than the RHS, whose extensive collection of artwork has made the Bloom Collection as attractive and striking as it is effective and durable. We’re thrilled to be collaborating with the RHS team on this collection.”

Cathy Snow, RHS Licensing Manager, adds: “Partnering with Atlantic Mats appealed to the RHS for a number of reasons. Gardeners will appreciate these durable and washable mats. They are also good-looking and decorative, brilliantly taking inspiration from our RHS Lindley Collections artwork. But there’s more: a strong emphasis on products that are kind to the environment and sustainable. And we’re looking forward to even more great products from this collaboration in the next year!”

Following the success of the first two series, the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) and the Worshipful Company of Gardeners (WCoG) present the AIPH Green City Briefings 2024/25. These free one hour webinars will demonstrate how successful integrated urban greening provides benefits for the city, its residents, and nature.

Each webinar will provide compelling evidence and examples of the power of ‘living green’ to deliver multiple solutions to city challenges. The first webinar in the series, titled ‘Flourishing urban design with plants’, will take place at 1pm BST on 16th May 2024. The focus of this session will be on how the incorporation of plants into city environments not only provides beauty, but also contributes to improved air quality, reduced urban heat island effect, and enhanced biodiversity.

Leading this first session is Jane Welsh, OALA, FCSLA, who is the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) Special Envoy to AIPH and Co-Chair of the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects Committee on Climate Adaptation. Jane is currently the Project Manager of the Environmental Planning unit of Toronto City Planning, leading the team responsible for creating new innovative solutions to address climate adaptation and mitigation, natural heritage protection and biodiversity loss and change the way Canada's largest city is built.

Two experts will join Jane and will present real life examples of how selecting plants for cities can combat significant issues. The first speaker is Elisa Olivares, Lecturer for the Department of Landscape Architecture at the University of Sheffield. Elisa’s presentation will focus on how research, outreach, and collaboration can help cities in Mexico to improve their biodiversity, where the landscape is experiencing accelerated loss due to climate change, land use, and vegetation loss.

The second speaker for the Briefing is Kathryn Deery, Head Horticulturist at Lurie Garden in Chicago, USA. An urban model of responsible horticulture, Lurie Garden provides a healthy habitat for a wide variety of plants, animals, and insects. The garden offers a four-season experience, blending Chicago’s past, present and future with bold design, dramatic form, and intimate spaces. In her presentation, Kathryn will explore shifting the mindset from one of maintenance to management in the garden and designing with perennials in an urban setting.

Following these presentations, Jane Welsh will lead a panel style discussion, taking questions from the audience, and from those posted on the AIPH Global Green City Forum.

For more information and to register, visit the AIPH Website or sign up to receive the AIPH Global Green City Update.

An RHS Feature Garden, which will be entirely peat-free from plug to show plot, will feature at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show to help gardeners and industry transition to peat-free by showcasing what can be achieved and empowering people to grow their own plants using sustainable alternatives.

The RHS Peat-Free Garden by designer, garden writer, presenter and RHS Ambassador Arit Anderson, will feature more than 2,000 annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees, sourced from growers including Golden Valley Plants and Rjinbeek and partners in the RHS Peat-free Fellowship, including Farplants and Hilliers. Full of colour and texture, the naturalistic planting of the garden will mimic an untouched peatland before transitioning into a recognisable domestic garden complete with shaded as well as sun loving borders and beds.

All of the materials used in its design have been recycled including a large greenhouse at its heart made from upcycled windows, borrowed paving, old railway sleepers and even a diss-used beehive that now serves as a bug hotel. Two large water butts will collect rainwater from the green house with overflow channelled into a wildlife friendly water feature and rain garden for future use during dry spells.

A series of talks and workshops will be hosted on the garden for visitors of the show and are intended to help demystify the origins and use of growing media such as compost, mulch and soil improvers, advise on peat-free seed sowing and propagation and offer watering and care advice for peat-free potted plants.

Arit continues: “The RHS Peat-Free Garden will be packed full of planting and design ideas gardeners can take home and apply on their own plot. I’m incredibly proud of this peat-free show garden which I hope will help shine a light on the issue and empower gardeners and industry to help bring about change. However, I also recognise the challenges designers face with residual traces of peat found in plants and that’s something the RHS is working hard to address.”

Alistair Griffiths, Director of Science and Collections, added: “We’re delighted that Hampton will be host to this peat-free garden from plug to plot. Industry and gardeners are showing huge resolve in their ambition to be peat-free and the garden will showcase how it can be done with no less colour or quality. From 2026, our Legacy Peat Policy will aid the transition by accounting for the legacy peat that is likely to be found in older and larger garden plants.”

The RHS has announced a Legacy Peat Policy that will apply across all of its operations, including show gardens, as of 1st January 2026 and accounts for peat already in production systems before that point. The policy acknowledges that some peat will remain in circulation for some time, particularly for older, larger plants such as herbaceous perennials and trees. However, all plants raised after 1st January 2026 will be required to have been grown entirely peat-free, and any potting action after this date must also be peat-free, for plants to be shown, exhibited or sold through the RHS. This gives the industry time to transition in order to comply with the charity’s peat-free policy but also recognises that peat already in production systems cannot be returned to the ground, and washing it off or throwing it away would be unsustainable.

The RHS Peat-free Fellowship is supported by Defra, growing media manufacturers and industry partners Allensmore, The Farplants Group, Hilliers, Hills Plants, Johnsons Nurseries, Lovania, Vitacress and Volmary.

Growing media manufacture Melcourt who have been peat-free since their inception over 40 years ago and are partnering the trials being undertaken as part of the fellowship will also be participating in talks and workshops for visitors to the garden throughout the week.

For more information on peat free growing and the RHS’ ongoing work with government and industry, visit: www.rhs.org.uk/advice/peat-free

The Royal Horticultural Society has announced that for the first time children will take on the role of judges at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Following the success of the inaugural Chelsea Children’s Picnic last year, local schools are once again being invited to the world’s most famous horticultural event, as the charity aims to make gardening more accessible to all. 72 children from nine London primary schools will participate as junior judges at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show to determine the winner of the all-new RHS Children’s Choice Award, with the winning garden unveiled on the opening day of the show.

The attending primary schools, chosen from a pool of applications, have all shown a passion for growing by providing pupils with gardening club sessions, opportunities to grow their own food, and exploring ways to encourage wildlife into their grounds. All schools are also members of the RHS Campaign for School Gardening, which provides teachers with free resources, training and support to get more young people gardening. It is hoped that the experience at the show will bolster the children’s love of gardening and appreciation for nature, particularly as many of the pupils do not have easy access to a garden or green space at home.

After enjoying a picnic lunch the junior judges will set off in groups to assess the eight Show Gardens by each considering a series of questions including whether the garden is a good place to play, whether it is attractive to wildlife, and how the space makes them feel. The questions have been designed to celebrate the perspective of children and demonstrate the breadth of feelings that gardens can evoke. Once all the feedback is collated, one Show Garden will be awarded the RHS Children’s Choice Award 2024.

As well as judging the eight Show Gardens, the junior judges will also have the opportunity to visit the RHS No Adults Allowed Garden, designed by pupils from Sulivan Primary School in South West London, which reinforces the message that gardening is for everyone, regardless of age.

RHS Director General, Clare Matterson, said: “The decision to include children as judges at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show reflects our commitment to cultivating a lifelong passion for gardening. The RHS Children’s Choice Award champions the unique perspective of young people and highlights the importance of nurturing a connection between children and the natural world. As the world’s greatest gardening spectacle, RHS Chelsea is a feast for the senses, and I can’t wait to hear what our junior judges make of it.”

Children are front and centre stage at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show as the RHS No Adults Allowed Garden is the first in the event’s history to be designed by children, for children. In order to access the garden adults must pledge to do one of three things:

• Plant a Tree
• Donate to RHS Campaign for School Gardening to help give other children access to nature
• Find a flower that starts with the first letter of their name

Adults who have pledged will receive one of the children’s designed “access stickers”, granting them entry to the garden.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show, sponsored by The Newt in Somerset, runs from 21 to 25 May 2024 at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, for more information and to buy tickets visit rhs.org.uk/chelsea

A garden at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show is to be created almost entirely out of repurposed materials to highlight creative ways of reusing and recycling materials in garden design.

Award winning designer Darryl Moore of Cityscapes has repurposed key elements from RHS Chelsea Show Gardens dating back as far as 2010. Recycled elements include, a series of corten steel columns, hauled from storage at Crocus after appearing in Andy Sturgeon’s 2010 The Daily Telegraph Garden, tower over a path of reclaimed paving. Tom Massey’s Islamic inspired fountain and concrete benches from his 2018 The Lemon Tree Trust Garden provide a focal point and places to rest within the garden.

The distinctive steel fins from Andy Sturgeon’s 2016 The Daily Telegraph Garden are repurposed as information boards highlighting best practices in show garden sustainability, reuse and relocation and reclaimed scaffold boards and timber from Cityscapes’ 2022 St Mungo’s Putting Down Roots Garden define the rear boundary.

The recycling continues with drought-tolerant species, including grasses and local wildflowers, all planted in crushed concrete and sand salvaged from demolished buildings. The planting features Crataegus monogyna (Hawthorn) trees, grasses including Brachipodium pinnatum, Briza media and various Selseria species, interspersed with local wildflowers such as Centurea nigra, Galium verum and Origanum vulgare, alongside Verbascum, Phlomis and Euphorbia.

Designer and Director of Cityscapes said: “The world’s resources are limited. In order to build a sustainable and adaptive future in response to the challenges we face from the climate and biodiversity crisis, we need to look at ways to reuse and recycle materials we already have. At Cityscapes we’ve been re-using materials from RHS Shows for a decade, so I’m always on the lookout for things that might work well in future designs. I hope this garden will encourage more designers and visitors to do the same.”

All gardens at RHS Chelsea Flower Show have to live on in some form after the show, a condition that was implemented by the RHS last year. Gardens can be relocated in their entirety or broken down and used for a number of different projects depending on need and suitability, or parts might be repurposed. After the Show, every element of ‘RHS Chelsea Repurposed’ will go on to enjoy new lives that continue to benefit both people and wildlife.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show runs from 21-25 May 2024 and tickets are available online at rhs.org.uk/Chelsea

Greywater will be a go-to source of water for the garden by 2035 as gardeners look to ways to minimise their use of mains water and rainwater stores are more readily exhausted during drier, summer months, predicts the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

The RHS is to explore how greywater use can be expanded in the garden as it grows its water research capabilities following the appointment of a Senior Water Scientist and a Water Reduction Officer. This includes researching plant and substrate combinations that support the right soil microbiology and plant functions to remove potential pollutants and making the movement of water from house to garden more practical.

The charity continues to champion the need to switch from mains water to rainwater (www.mains2rains.uk), but with Government targeting a 20% reduction in household and business water use by 2038 and water butts not always sufficient in meeting summer demand, it is also looking at how water can be practically recycled from sinks, baths and washing.

The RHS is already investigating the role greywater will play in maintaining its own five gardens, and the estimated 23 million domestic gardens in the UK, by conducting research into which plants and substrates are most effective in water cleaning. One of the advantages of using greywater is that it is generated each day, so large storage tanks or reservoirs are not needed.

Rain gardens are also being created across the RHS’ five sites as a way to hold water for longer in the landscape, manage rainwater run-off and minimise flood risk, and act as sponges for water that is then ready and waiting during dry spells. Rain gardens such as the Dry Garden at RHS Garden Hyde Hall require no watering once established.

Fundamental to all rain gardens is healthy, deeply aerated soil which readily absorbs water, and then balances storage and deep drainage of that water. The microbes found in healthy soils improve the filtering capacity of soils by digesting organic matter from any greywater applied to it such as detergents, skin and sweat, and enhancing soil structure.

Gardens showcasing clever rainwater management feature heavily at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year including in The Water Aid Garden which includes a rainwater harvesting pavilion designed to slow its flow, collecting and storing it for irrigation of the garden and filtering it for use as drinking water. In The National Autistic Society Garden rainwater is channelled away from the main terrace via a 'waterfall roof' which feeds into a mossy dell which acts as a swale during periods of high rainfall, holding rainwater until it can drain away into the subsoil. Rain is also channelled into areas planted with species that can cope with wet conditions.

Dr Nicholas Cryer, Senior Water Scientist at the RHS, says: “The greenest approach to watering your garden is to minimise its use entirely through clever planting and good soil care, with rainwater harvesting the next best thing. But with summers predicted to become hotter and drier and the need to remedy a growing water deficit we need to be more creative in how we maintain our green spaces. Single use products are now rightly frowned upon and we should consider water the same way. The estimated 60 litres of greywater produced per person within our homes each day can be recycled in our gardens.”

Tips for promoting healthy soil and effective greywater use

• Your soil is your largest water storage reservoir. Improve it by adding organic mulch and minimising soil disturbance to improve structure and its ability to hold water.
• Healthy soil needs plants that cover and protect the soil and that have healthy root systems to improve its aeration and stabilisation.
• Greywater can be used in the short term on ornamentals but not edible crops.
• To minimise bacterial growth, greywater from sinks and baths should be stored for no more than 24 hours.
• Greywater should be applied by watering can as pollutants in the water can clog irrigation systems.

The RHS recently invested in rainwater collection and storage, including harvesting rainwater from RHS Hilltop at RHS Garden Wisley and directing this water to the purpose-built Clear Lake for storage and reuse. This initiative enabled Battleston Hill woodland garden to significantly reduce irrigation demand from other water sources. Coupled with other water efficiency measures such as improved leak detection, use of precision irrigation methods, and selection of plants that are ideally suited to local conditions will mean that an absolute minimum of water will be taken from the environment across all RHS gardens by 2030.

This exciting development marks a significant step forward in providing an enhanced online experience for the public and stockists.

The new website has been designed to offer a seamless, intuitive user experience, ensuring that customers can easily navigate through the extensive range of Daro’s elegantly crafted furniture and soft furnishing collections. With a fresh, modern layout, the website aims to reflect the brand's commitment to quality, style, and customer satisfaction.

A Leap Forward in Digital Experience

Understanding the importance of digital accessibility, Daro has invested in creating a platform that is not only visually appealing but also significantly more user-friendly than its predecessor. The upgraded site features improved navigation, and functionality, allowing customers to effortlessly explore and discover the perfect pieces to enhance their living spaces and now incorporates the brand’s range ofLaura Ashley indoor and outdoor furniture products.

“We are excited to unveil our new website, which has been developed with our customers' needs at the forefront,” said James Brown, Sales Director. “Our goal is to provide an informative online experience that is as high-quality as our furniture, making it easier than ever for our customers to find what they need and love.”

Looking Forward to a Bright Summer

With the launch of the new website, Daro is optimistic about the upcoming year and anticipates an improved market. The brand is committed to building on its legacy of crafting durable, stylish furniture that brings comfort and beauty to homes and gardens.

About Daro

Daro is a premier manufacturer of indoor and outdoor furniture, specialising in woven product and is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, innovative designs, and Customer service. All Daro frames are manufactured in Indonesia with soft furnishings “Made in the UK” at its own Midlands based facility. Daro products are exclusively available through a network of Stockists throughout the UK.

For more information about Daro and to explore the new website visit: https://daro-cane.co.uk/

The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) President Leonardo Capitanio visited the International Horticulture Goyang Korea 2024 on Saturday, 27 April, in the Ilsan Lake Park in Goyang Special City, South Korea.

It was the first day of the AIPH-approved Expo, and Mr Capitanio was invited to present prizes, alongside Florint President Mr Simon Ogrizek, at its first international event, the Goyang Flower Grand Prix – an international floristry competition.

Expert judges from international flower competitions, including the Interflora World Cup and Europa Cup, evaluated over 250 competitors from Korea and nine other countries. The AIPH Trophy Prize was awarded to Kim Jong-Kuk of Korea, a testament to his exceptional artistic skills with flowers. Other winners, including Arman Voskanyan of Armenia and Hong Ye-chan of Korea, also showcased their remarkable talent, inspiring all with their achievements.

In his Award Presentation speech, Mr Capitanio said: “It is my great pleasure to congratulate you on the successful opening of International Horticulture Goyang Korea 2024. I am particularly honoured that this year, it opens also with the approval and recognition of AIPH. We are very pleased to be supporting this Expo, which started in 1997 and has been led by the flower industry since then.

“The close association that the Goyang International Flower Expo has with the industry lies at the heart of its success. It has not stayed as a local event. It has branched out to become a significant international showcase for flowers and plants, bringing together producers and organisations from 30 countries with the public to inspire visitors with the amazing products on display.”

AIPH President Mr Leonardo Capitanio and Goyang Special City Mayor of Goyang Special City Mr Dong-Hwan Lee.

In 2024, the Goyang International Flower Expo became the first event that the AIPH had approved simultaneously for Category C (International Horticultural Exhibition) and D (International Horticultural Trade Expo). During the Award event, Mr Dong-Hwan Lee, Mayor of Goyang Special City presented Mr Capitanio with a letter of intention to apply to host an AIPH-approved A1 International Horticultural Exhibition in the future.

On Sunday, 28 April, Mr Capitanio toured the indoor and outdoor exhibition areas, showcasing the diverse array of flowers and plants from different domestic and international regions, highlighting the exhibition’s captivating theme, “Earth, Environment and Flowers: Flower in the Earth”.

Mr Capitanio later met with the organisers of this Expo, the Goyang International Flower Expo Foundation (GIFF), to congratulate them on hosting this Expo successfully and to foster discussions on ways to strengthen international exchange and cooperation and promote global networks for the future.

He met with Mr Dong-Hwan Lee, Mayor of Goyang Special City and Chairman of GIFF; Mr Jeong Heung-Kyo, CEO of GIFF; Mr Yu-Jeong Yang GIFF Headquarters Director, and AIPH member representatives; Mr Lim Yuktaek, President of the Korea Florist Association (KFA) and Korea Federation of Flower-Related Associations (KOFLAS) and Mr An Hong-Kyun from the Korean Association for the Advancement of the Flora Culture, (KAFC.

The Goyang International Flower Expo 2024 will continue until 12 May at Ilsan Lake Park. More than 200 organisations, groups, associations, and companies from 50 cities in 30 countries are participating.

For further information, visit www.flower.or.kr

Dobbies has unveiled a new advertising campaign, “Spring’s OUR thing”, developed in partnership with creative agency, elvis.

Launching during National Gardening Week (29 April – 5 May), the campaign has been developed based on insight that people feel more optimistic in Spring than any other season. This is supported with research from Dobbies by Censuswide, which shows that 71%[1] of Brits say being close to nature helps them relax and 41% of respondents who use their garden for activities say being in the garden brightens their mood.

Positioning Dobbies as champions of garden living; being in and enjoying your garden space to work, play and grow, the campaign showcases new product ranges and aims to increase awareness, putting Dobbies front of mind, and encouraging customers to visit during the Spring season.

The campaign features a quirky, humorous 30-second film, which will run across multiple media platforms. Featuring a character in various gardens while interacting with different gardeners and products, the film showcases the breadth of garden living products available in stores.

Kirsty Rockey, Head of Brand, Dobbies Garden Centres,said:“We know that people feel more optimistic in Spring than at any other time of year and that many are looking forward to seeing their gardens bouncing back to life.

“Our campaign demonstrates how liberating and rejuvenating being in touch with nature can be, and motivates customers to make the most of it. As champions of garden living, we want to remind people that Dobbies is the place to go for all they need to make the most of their gardens this Springtime.”

Watch the Spring’s OUR thing ad here: Dobbies - Spring's OUR Thing (youtube.com)

*The research was conducted by Censuswide with 2007 nat rep consumers in UK 16+ between 22 March-25 March 2024. Censuswide abide by and employ members of the Market Research Society, which is based on the ESOMAR principles and are members of The British Polling Council.

Michael Gove, Member of Parliament for Surrey Heath, visited Evergreen Garden Care (EGC) in his constituency on Friday 26^th April to discuss the importance of consistent industry standards for peat free product quality.

Meeting with Colin Stephens, Evergreen's Managing Director, Gove discussed the company’s continued campaigning for high quality peat-free customer experiences. With a history of fighting environmental causes, and as the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Gove is keen to support campaigns that lead to a greener future, such as the peat ban.

The meeting was held ahead of the Horticultural Peat Private Members Bill discussion in the House of Commons due 17^th May. Commenting on his visit to Evergreen Garden Care and the issue at hand, Michael Gove stated: “It was a pleasure to meet the team at Evergreen Garden Care and to hear all about their campaign for a peat ban. Reducing peat usage and restoring our peatlands to health is hugely important, and Evergreen Garden Care has been doing brilliant work promoting peat free gardening. I know my colleagues at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs are working towards a peat ban, and I will be in touch with Robbie Moore MP, Minister for Water and Rural Growth, to report back on my visit.”

Evergreen Garden Care has been at the forefront of advocating for peat free gardening practices. Since launching an open letter to DEFRA last September, urging commitment to implement better peat-free growing media standards, the company has led various initiatives to reduce peat usage. Notably, EGC’s Miracle-Gro brand, transitioned to being completely peat-free at the end of 2023 with the Levington brand following 2024. Furthermore, Evergreen Garden Care has been actively campaigning for legislation to establish the Responsible Sourcing Scheme (RSS), aiming to promote sustainability and transparency across the horticulture industry.

Colin Stephens, Managing Director of Evergreen Garden Care, comments, "No matter the outcome following the second bill read in May, the requirement is clear – consumers must have access to good quality, peat-free compost that is kind to the planet as well as gardens. We all have a duty of care when it comes to the makeup of peat-free compost to ensure consumers experience the same quality and product efficacy every time. Whilst there is no current commitment on when the peat-ban will fully come in, the support of Michael Gove’s visit today is one step closer to a wider commitment from the government."

To read more about Evergreen Garden Care’s campaign for the peat-ban, and to read their open letter to DEFRA, visit https://evergreentrade.co.uk/openletter.

The huge positive reaction from the Front Garden Face Lift transformation last month had ITV’s This Morning producers inundated with applications for future projects. Television has only really focused on rear garden projects, on pre-recorded makeover shows. This front garden focus has captured the nation’s interest in front gardens and being able to watch it transform on television in real-time has everyone feeling the jeopardy as it happens.

Never one to back down from a challenge, David Domoney returned to ITV’s This Morning to face the Front Garden Facelift challenge again. Watched by millions of viewers across the UK, David and his brilliant team of volunteers completed the mammoth task.

Live from Radstock, David’s team of volunteers from Blue Diamond Garden centres and young horticulture students from Wiltshire College and University Centre working to breathe new life into the space. 

The clock began ticking at 10am when Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley introduced David whilst he knocked on the door of Clair Liddiard. 

Clair is a care worker who is battling ovarian cancer and creating a dream garden that attracts wildlife has felt out of reach. 

According to research statistics from Cancer Research UK, on average there are 7,495 cases recorded each year. It’s the 6th most common type of female cancer. Sadly 4,142 people who have been diagnosed with the illness have lost their battle. However, 35% of those who battle the disease live for 10 years or more and 11% of cases are preventable. 

Front gardens have been in decline across the UK for several decades. Many homeowners have decided to convert their outdoor garden space into parking spaces for vehicles. London and the Southeast account for 32% of these conversions across the UK. It’s reported that the average cost of a garden conversion to a driveaway in 2021 was £2474 which based on inflation has rocketed to £2950 in 2024.

By illustrating what is possible with a front garden, David wants to inspire more to visit the garden centre and give their front garden some TLC. David said, “For me, front gardens are the smile that your house gives you when you come home. Whether it’s from work or from a trip out, you want a beautiful garden to greet you and that’s what the front of your property can do.”

Victoria Fiander, an assessor in Horticulture from Wiltshire College and University centre, said: “We were delighted to receive the request for help from This Morning. The experience of working alongside an industry figure like David is invaluable to build the students Knowledge and skills, which allows them to develop their Soft landscape installation techniques and Factors influencing plant selection including planting combinations, microclimate, soil, purpose, aesthetics.”

“The biggest challenges with any makeover, are time and the size of the garden,” said David. “With the help of the Lackham Campus of Wiltshire College and University Centre students, Blue Diamond Garden & Living Centre at Cadbury, AMES Tools, Hope Grove Nurseries, AJ Champion and Sons, CJ Wildlife, Jacksons Fencing, Miracle-Gro, OASE Water Solutions, The Hedgehog Society, Plantool Hire Centres, McCathy Marland Recycling, and Protest Electricians we were able to create something special for a very deserving person. Clair is going through a very challenging time, and I believe that gardens, plants, and nature can help soothe our minds and lift our spirits.”

As time was called on the makeover work, David was able to take Clair on a guided tour of her new front garden. Clair was so pleased with the transformation thanking everyone, with highlights for her including the water feature by OASE UK, bird station and feeds from CJ Wildlife, plants and staff from Blue Diamond and hedging from Hope Grove Nursery and the special Front Garden Facelift blue plaque created for This Morning by Fun Blue Plaques.

"Garden Centres up and down the country are one-stop shops for everything you need to create your own garden sanctuary. Shopping for Clair prior to the makeover at Blue Diamond Garden Centre in Cadbury was a tantalizing experience, a place for inspiration, not to mention the expert advice available for those looking to bounce ideas and discuss layout questions."

“Everyone involved in this makeover has done an incredible job. I’m so grateful that the horticultural industry has come together to illustrate what we can do. The volunteers and students have helped to create a lovely place for Clair to enjoy, and for wildlife to thrive,” David concluded.

Please find a link to the makeover which is now up online https://youtu.be/J4w5GbmZTFs?si=DwrJCCU1pTnEWAwl

‘Charting a steady course in marginally calmer waters’ probably best describes Squire’s performance in their financial year ending 31 July 2023, after the somewhat rolling seas of the Covid and immediate post Covid era. 

This year’s results were, as anticipated, a little below the results for last year, with retail sales of £66.3m (2022: £68.2m).  Within that total, Garden Centre sales dropped to £56.9m (2022: £59.9m), while Restaurant sales rose by 13% to £9.4m (2022: £8.3m).  E-commerce recorded sales of £1.1m (+10%) in its second full year and the company is pleased with the steady development of this channel. The newly-acquired Barnsfold Nurseries business contributed £1.6m of sales in its maiden seven months with the group, taking total Group sales to £67.9m. 

Demand for plants and horticultural products remained strong, well above pre-Covid levels.  And, as the supply chain stabilised, stock levels were reduced, particularly in garden furniture.  

Underlying profit before tax dropped to £2.4m (2022: £4.0m) with an additional contribution of £0.4m from Barnsfold.  

Over the course of the year, capital expenditure focused on improvements across several Centres, rather than one large project. A number of these investments were aimed at carbon and energy cost reduction.  With a favourable cash position at the year-end, the company is in a good place to look for further acquisitions and to invest in existing sites.

Following the year end, Squire’s has reported a satisfactory Christmas. Although volumes were down, sell through was good and the sales were more profitable. With the spring season in its early stages, plants and gardening again look encouraging. Sarah Squire comments: “Calendar year 2024 started well for Squire’s. We were thrilled that Hersham was awarded the GCA Ruxley Rose trophy in the Garden Centre category. With Woking coming third and Wokingham in the top ten, this cements our confidence in the plant side of our business.”

Despite wider geopolitical turmoil, domestic political uncertainty and a challenging UK economy, Squire’s has confidence in its teams and the robust nature of the industry. The company will continue to invest in the business and its people. Priorities over the coming year are replacing the roof at Twickenham and the garden furniture shop at Milford. Both projects include solar panels. Work will continue on the company’s sustainability programme, and its commitment to charitable and community involvement.

Sarah Squire adds: “Above all, I remain full of admiration for my talented colleagues, in our Centres, Restaurants, Nurseries and in Group Office, who have shown such commitment and worked so tirelessly in the volatile landscape of FY2023, and who continue to consistently give of their best in 2024."

Robin Mercer BEM has received his British Empire Medal from Lord Lieutenant Dame Fionnuala Jay-O'Boyle DBE, at a ceremony in Hillsborough Castle. 

Speaking about the occasion, Robin said: "It was an immensely special day to receive my British Empire Medal in such a beautiful venue. Even the weather was kind to us and we got to enjoy the Hillsborough Castle gardens! 

"The ceremony was very well organised and everyone made me feel so special. 

"I was proud to receive my honour with so many people from all over Northern Ireland who received well deserved awards including those from the medical profession and those recognised for their charity work. 

"It was lovely to see everyone turned out in their best attire and after the official ceremony, we were treated to tea and coffee while a harpist entertained us, before having official photos taken as a magnificent memento of the day.

"Now that I have received the medal it makes the honour so real following on from the surprise of receiving the letter I received late last year advising me of the award. 

"I was grateful to have my wife Edith, son Alan and his wife Ciara with me to witness the presentation of my BEM and we ended the day celebrating with afternoon tea at the Grand Central where we had a beautiful view of Belfast to admire thanks to the weather! 

"I am now looking forward to further celebrations with my wife at a garden party in Buckingham Palace next month."

Robin Mercer BEM is managing director of the fourth generation garden lifestyle business Hillmount which has garden centres in Ards, Bangor, Belfast and Cheshire.

Boost, the All-Purpose Liquid Plant Feed from Westland Horticulture, is back on TV this April in the UK and ROI, driving awareness and preference ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend.

Following the success of Boost, which is the fastest growing* plant food on the market, Westland is investing in a media campaign for Boost for the third consecutive year. The 20” advert will be aired on high viewership channels, including Channel4, ITV3, ITV4, and Sky, surrounded by contextually relevant programming for the home and garden. Launching today, 29^th April, and running until early June, the campaign is phased to maximise coverage to drive visibility and preference, ensuring Boost remains top of mind as consumers enter the peak consideration window for plant feeds.

The campaign is expected to reach over 40 million consumers with a captivating creative centred around the product’s key messaging of achieving 4x more blooms** along with more fruits and vegetables, by adding Boost watering cans. The All-Purpose Liquid plant feed, meticulously crafted for use in peat free compost, features PLANTSENSE™ technology, which is an optimised ratio of high-quality nutrients as well as a water management system, helping plants get all the nutrients they need so they reach their full potential.

Helen Amos, Head of Category, at Westland Horticulture, commented: “At Westland, we want every gardener to enjoy a successful season, year after year. We continue to invest in our brands through media campaigns to help drive awareness and consideration, and inspire consumers to choose Westland as their trusted partner in the garden. Our creative aims to connect with gardeners and demonstrate how Boost can transform their garden into a thriving, vibrant space that’s full of colour.

“We will also be supporting our retail partners with a high level of in-store presence of Boost, and there’s a variety of options available to capture consumer attention in-store to maximise sales opportunities.”

In common with all Westland products, Boost All Purpose Liquid plant feed range can be ordered 24/7 via Westland Live, and frequent top-ups are easy as part of a Westland weekly delivery. Scan here to login in or sign up.

*Boost All Purpose Liquid Plant Food is the fastest growing all-purpose plant food. Source: GfK Management Report 2022/23, Fertilisers, Plant Food, Non Straights Liquid.

**Bedding plants fed with Boost liquid plant food versus unfed.

Meadow View Stone has announced  the addition of Molly Shaw, as a Customer Service Administrator to the team. Molly previously worked for Long Rake Spar, Meadow View Stones sister company, and so brings a wealth of product knowledge, customer service skills and familiarity with the companies operating systems.

In her role, Molly will be responsible for a multitude of critical tasks, ranging from all sales order processing, invoicing, and the front line for all customer communications. Claire will continue in her role as Assistant Manager, whilst being Molly’s mentor to ensure a seamless transition will be achieved for our customers.  

"We are delighted to welcome Molly Shaw to our team," said Sarah Hill, Managing Director at Meadow View Stone. "Her extensive experience and passion for customer service make her the perfect fit for the role. We are confident that Molly will make significant contributions to our team and help us continue to exceed our customers' expectations."

Looking for dog products that are British made, high quality and distinctive, well then look no further than newcomers Storeys and Tails. Debuting for the first time at this year’s PATS and Glee they are the story (pun intended) we have all been waiting for. 

From humble beginnings, Storeys and Tails has been dedicated to sourcing and designing pet accessories from start to finish with the modern pet owner in mind.

Nestled in a quaint studio in Devon, alongside her husband Alex, Natasha Taylor pours her heart and soul into every hand crafted piece.

Natasha's expertise in the leather industry, gained from her early career handcrafting leather goods for renowned UK-based fashion businesses, has allowed Storeys and Tails to elevate their products to the utmost standards. 

With a deep understanding of the needs and desires of pet lovers, their collars and leads are meticulously handmade to ensure both durability and style. Between their Luxury leather and All-weather collars and lead ranges, there really is something to suit every customer.

We invite you to explore their collection and discover the perfect way to offer your customers the premium, British made accessories that consumers are seeking.

Check them out at Storeysandtails.co.uk to view all their collections and learn and bit more or follow them on socials @storeysandtails  

Can’t wait till PATS or Glee? Order now for 10% off your first order (offer ends 30.06.24)

Contact Natasha and Alex at sales@storeysandtails.co.uk for more information.

Or give them a call on 07875358964.

SOLEX Exhibition, the premier event that gathers the best and brightest of the outdoor leisure industry, has announced an Awards Ceremony & Afterparty to kick off the excitement of the summer event on the Tuesday 9 July. Marking its 16th year, SOLEX Exhibition has curated a night of celebration, networking, and a thrilling football-themed evening to coincide with the highly anticipated UEFA Euro 2024 semi-finals.

With a captivating football-themed setting, the stage will be set with tv screens and hot food, as industry players gather, attendees can look forward to not only the prestigious SOLEX Awards but also to the electric atmosphere as the evening blends business recognition with the shared love for the beautiful game.

Adding to the excitement, former Ex - England footballer Dion Dublin will be joining us for the event to share insights and predictions ahead of the semi-final clash, (which we hope will feature England) as well as taking part in a Q&A session. The evening begins with a Welcome Drink and Hot Buffet, leading into the hotly awaited match on the big screen. The SOLEX Awards will be presented by Dion at half time. The afterparty, will be a chance to mingle outside the usual professional environment and promises to be as thrilling as the game itself.

The evening won't just be about football. We will have delicious food and drink, exciting entertainment, and a chance to unwind and socialize with exhibitors and visitors. So even if you're not a fan of the beautiful game, we've got you covered.

Don't miss out! Add your name to the guest list today BOOK NOW

Ready your grills, sharpen your knives, and stoke the fires! SOLEX Exhibition 2024 is about to welcome back the crowd-pleasing, taste-bud-teasing Fire Food and Outdoor Living Evening incorporating our BBQ Competition, which is set to light up the evening with charm and flavour.

Scheduled for Wednesday 10 July, the evening now in its second year, is the event that celebrates not only the mastery of the grill but the communal joy of al fresco dining.

Attendees eagerly anticipate the BBQ showdown, where teams of both exhibitors and visitors will vie for the prestigious BBQ Trophy. The stakes are high.  Each team aims to impress the judges, including industry experts with a signature dish.

Competition is set to heat up under the open skies outside Hall 5, be it under a radiant sun or cheering each other on beneath the shelter of gazebos, all competitors and spectators are poised to make beautiful bites of every challenge.

The essence of the evening is more than just the BBQ prize it embodies the thrill of the grill and the unifying spirit of good food shared.

Don't miss out! Add your name to the guest list today BOOK NOW