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.

GIMA Buyers Guide & New Product Digest Spring 2024.  

New Products for the UK Garden Trade for 2024 from GIMA Members: AMES Apta, AMES Home Delivery, AMES Tools, Auto Pot Global, Azpects, Bulldog Tools, CJS Display, Coir Products, Durstons, Edelman, elho, Evergreen Garden Care, Fargro, Forest Garden, Gardena, Handy Distribution, Glee, Hortiwool, Hozelock, Johnsons Lawn Seeds, Leon Boots, Museums & Galleries, PlantWorks, Primeur, Pot Mate, SharkNinja, The Solar Centre, Treadstone, UK Greetings, Vitavia, Westland Horticulture, Witt UK & Ireland, Woodmansterne, Zest Outdoor Living & GIMA Member Directory.

The Venezia 80cm Grow Box has become the world's number one bestseller from Artevasi. With its moulded legs, built-in water reservoir, removable rubber stopper for drainage, 58-litre capacity, overall durability, and outstanding value for money, it is a firm favourite in garden centres across Europe, America and the Middle East. 

Founded in 2006, Artevasi has become a leader in producing eco-friendly, sustainable recycled plastic pots. With offices worldwide, they now export to over 50 countries on five continents. 

Available in two sizes, 80cm and 100cm, and in five contemporary colours, Anthracite, Dry Green, Taupe, Light Grey, and White, the Grow-Box range offers a high rate of sales coupled with outstanding value for money and attractive margins for retailers. In addition, both sizes of Grow-Box can be fitted with a transparent greenhouse lid to provide the ideal growing solution for a wide range of plants and vegetables. The lid is also compatible with the Venezia Plant Box XL, making it even more versatile. 

From pots to planters to hanging baskets, this range with traditional design offers a wide range of sizes and models with specific features to meet every need. Rooted in love for the plant, Venezia focuses on providing the best conditions for its growth. It offers different options suitable for indoor or outdoor use, with frost-resistant properties, produced with recycled materials and 100% recyclable.

For more information, please contact UK Director, Darren Boorman, speak to your local sales agent or email general@artevasi.co.uk

www.artevasi.co.uk

Greenhouse specialist Vitavia reveals why owning one is a gardener's secret weapon...

In the world of gardening, having a greenhouse is akin to possessing a superpower! It’s a game-changer that extends your growing season, protects delicate plants from harsh weather and opens up a world of possibilities for cultivating a thriving garden. As we step into March, let’s explore why owning a greenhouse is so beneficial and the wonders you can nurture within its sheltered confines during this early spring month.

Extend Your Growing Season
One of the most significant advantages of owning a greenhouse is the ability to extend your growing season. While outdoor gardens may still be waking up from winter dormancy, your greenhouse can provide a warm and cosy haven for plants to flourish. With controlled temperature and humidity levels, you can start sowing seeds earlier, giving your plants a head start and ultimately reaping the rewards with an earlier harvest.

Protect Your Plants
March can be a fickle month, with unpredictable weather patterns ranging from chilly mornings to sudden frosts. A greenhouse acts as a shield, safeguarding your plants from the whims of Mother Nature. No more fretting over late frosts or sudden temperature drops, your greenhouse provides a stable environment where tender seedlings can thrive without fear of damage.

Diversify Your Garden
With a greenhouse, you’re no longer limited to what can survive in your local climate. March is the perfect time to experiment with a diverse range of plants that may not typically thrive in your outdoor garden. From exotic fruits and vegetables to delicate flowers and herbs, the controlled environment of a greenhouse allows you to push the boundaries and explore new horizons in gardening.

What to Grow in March
As March heralds the arrival of spring, there’s a myriad of plants that you can start growing in your greenhouse:

• Early Vegetables: Kickstart your vegetable garden by sowing seeds of cool-season crops like lettuce, spinach, kale and radishes. These fast-growing veggies will thrive in the mild temperatures of your greenhouse and provide an early harvest.
• Herbs: Fill your greenhouse with the fragrant aroma of fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, parsley and chives. These culinary delights will flourish indoors, ready to add flavour to your springtime dishes.
• Flowers: Brighten up your space with a splash of colour by planting flowering annuals such as pansies, snapdragons and violas. These hardy blooms will add charm and cheer to your greenhouse while waiting for the outdoor garden to come to life.
• Perennials: Start perennial flowers from seed in March to enjoy blooms year after year. Delicate varieties like delphiniums, lupines and foxgloves will appreciate the protection of your greenhouse as they germinate and establish themselves.
• Fruit Trees: If you dream of harvesting your own fruit, consider starting fruit tree seeds or saplings in your greenhouse. Apples, peaches, citrus fruits and figs are just a few options that can thrive in a greenhouse environment, providing you with a bountiful harvest in the years to come.

Owning a greenhouse is not just a hobby, it’s a gateway to a world of endless gardening possibilities. As March unfolds, embrace the advantages of greenhouse gardening and let your imagination take root. With a little care and creativity, your greenhouse will become a sanctuary of growth and abundance, where the joys of gardening know no bounds.

Find out more at https://vitavia.co.uk/unlocking-the-greenhouse-advantage

Wincanton has been awarded extended warehouse and transport contracts with Dobbies, the UK’s leading garden centre retailer, to provide premium home delivery, store replenishment and eCommerce services.

Dobbies started working with Wincanton in 2020. To date, the partnership has seen Wincanton manage 110,000 units of stock per week to stores and customers across the UK.

The new contract reflects the leading supply chain partner's track record for high quality services for multi-channel retailers, particularly in the home and gardens market.

The transition will achieve over 16% improvements in efficiency and will allow Dobbies the capacity to increase volumes by 100%.

Wincanton seamlessly managed the relocation of Dobbies’ national distribution centre to a new shared-user site in Corby, Northamptonshire, to provide additional space, facilitating Dobbies’ growth potential.

James Wroath, CEO at Wincanton, said: “The extension of our partnership with Dobbies showcases the resilience, breadth and agility of Wincanton’s capabilities. We are proud of the strength of our change management capability which ensured a safe and secure transition to the new site, and the benefits this brings to Dobbies and its customers.”

David Robinson, CEO at Dobbies, said: “Having the right supply chain partner is crucial to ensuring a seamless operation for our colleagues and customers. Wincanton have been an excellent partner, and we’re looking forward to building on this moving forward, with a quality and reliable service that we can rely on.”

In collaboration with Meta-Morphose, LOFA have tailored an exclusive, top-tier sales and coaching program for LOFA members, tackling the challenges of the evolving garden leisure industry head-on.

Through engaging modules and personal coaching, this programme is designed not just to teach, but to integrate essential sales and negotiation skills into your work force.

What's even better? It's free for LOFA members! Open exclusively to all their employees under 30, this is a stellar opportunity to not just grow professionally but shine within the outdoor leisure industry.

There are ten spaces available each year, put your name forward, and you could be one of the first selected in the draw by GTN Editor, Trevor Pfeiffer on Friday 10th May, embarking on a journey of sales mastery, culminating at SOLEX 2025 with a trophy for the top performer. 

Unlock the sales potential within your business with the launch of the LOFA Sales academy. Transform your sales approach and take on the business world like never before.

The LOFA Sales Academy is your golden ticket!

Ready set, grow with LOFA! 

Applications need to be submitted to gina@lofa.com by Friday April 26 

N.B One candidate application per member only per year.

Based in Cheltenham, Meta-morphose have been established for 30 years training sales agents from leading blue chip corporations including Westland & Fiskars. 

The new owners of a popular Sheffield garden, nursery and aquatics centre are set to grow the site into a community hub after help from city lawyers Wake Smith Solicitors.

Reverend Dave Walker and his son William have bought Birley Moor Garden Centre and Aquatics from previous owners Chris and Margaret Dale, who are retiring having run the facility since the early 1990s.

The Mosborough-based duo, who have held the garden centre in high regard after Dave first went there with his father at six years old, plan to invest in, and improve, the site and also aim to convert the existing residential bungalow into a cafe and educational centre for the community, subject to planning approval.

They will keep the existing five staff employed at the centre on Moor Valley, with plans to boost the workforce by 15 people this year, and also plan to transform the adjacent 3.5 acre piece of scrubland into a community garden and orchard with help from local colleges.

Rebecca Robinson, director and head of the corporate team at Wake Smith negotiated the purchase with solicitor Joe Creasor, while commercial property director Paul Gibbon dealt with the property elements including simultaneous purchases of the freehold from the owner and the leasehold bungalow. Lydia Sadler from Sheffield planning advisors DLP Planning Ltd is leading on the masterplan for the site.

Rev Walker, who recently sold his interest in Lancashire based wastewater monitoring specialists Detectronic, and his son William, acquired all the shares in Globerock Ltd, trading as Birley Moor Garden Centre, through their company Maranta Leuconeura Ltd – which is the Latin name for the Prayer Plant.

Rev Walker, vicar at St John the Evangelist Church in Ridgeway, said: “The garden centre has always had a sentimental place in my heart since I first went there as a six year old, with my dad. He used to buy his tomato plants and compost from there. My schoolfriends have really fond memories of going there.

“Former owner Chris has done a great job and has kept the spirit of community alive at the centre. Now he has retired, he says he has passed the baton onto me.

“I’m all about community engagement and this project will focus on the garden centre, the cafe and the community hub. We have already reworked some of the centre and the renown aquatics centre will keep providing crucial knowledge, products and fish to keen enthusiasts. The garden and orchard will allow more people to enjoy the space and encourage biodiversity.

“This is only a small project, but I want to bring people together and make a difference to their lives.”

Plans for the centre, which has been there since 1977 on the site of the former Old Dent Colliery Mine, include sustainable drainage, eco roofs, solar and renewable energy and a water course project to reuse water and prevent flooding.

Wake Smith’s Rebecca Robinson said:  “The purchase is a wonderful opportunity for Dave and William and we were delighted to work on this project with them. We look forward to continuing to advise and support them in delivering the their vision for the community."

Rev Walker added: “I was very impressed by the response time from Wake Smith. They called me back straight away, held our hands through every step of the process and always kept me informed. It was a phenomenal service and we will be working with them on this project for the foreseeable future.”

The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation is celebrating its 30th year of awarding scholarships to students studying horticulture. 

Originally set up in 1993 as the David Colegrave Foundation, in that first season 11 applications were received, and 5 scholarships awarded in the spring of 1994.  Today under the name of the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation, in recognition of the enormous input Peter Seabrook had to the work of the registered charity, we will see approaching 100 applications and up to 20 scholarship winners. The Foundation has also become more involved in promoting Horticulture as a professional career as well as encompassing a wider range of courses available to the students of today. 

The Garden Party being held on 2 July 2024, takes place the week before the official opening of the Ball Summer Showcase at West Adderbury in Oxfordshire. Guests attending will be able to browse the stunning plant displays in the trial grounds, network with friends and colleagues in the industry and meet some of the students who have benefitted from being awarded a scholarship. Those in the industry who are familiar with the Ball trial grounds will already know the inspiration and innovation that will be on show for growers and those linked to the garden retail sector. 

Special guests at the event will include the charity's Patron, Alan Titchmarsh MBE, and every guest will have the unique opportunity to enjoy this unique spectacular display of UK Horticulture and learn more of the work of the Foundation. Invitations for the event are already in high demand and ‘Save The Date’ notifications are already being sent out – check your email inbox to see if you are one of the lucky ones invited to this unique event!

Details of the Foundation and their podcast series can be found at the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation website:  www.colegraveseabrookfoundation.org.uk

or by emailing info@colegraveseasbrookfoundation.org.uk

British grown peat-free houseplants  

At the new RHS Urban Show Manchester, Blue Diamond, Britain’s largest Garden Centre group, is championing the move towards British Grown peat-free, peat free and soil-free houseplants. Blue Diamond is committed to developing best practice in sustainable living as well as responding to the growing, eco-conscious customers demand to reduce environmental impact.

The Blue Diamond exhibit, stand C25, C40 and C41, will showcase a new range of British grown peat-free houseplants, in addition to a range of soil-free plants, grown using air, hydroponics and water.  

Blue Diamond aims to show visitors how to sustainably ‘green’ their homes or spaces with an interactive exhibit.  Visitors will wander through a typical urban apartment, with rooms containing examples of plants perfect for steamy bathrooms, warm, sunny living rooms, or rooms with lower levels of natural light. 

Houseplants plants grown without soil

Blue Diamond is leading the way in British Grown peat-free houseplants through its collaboration with The Horti House, a collective of British growers and is keen to showcase the best of British growers and their environmental credentials. The move towards British-grown plants significantly reduces transportation and its corresponding carbon footprint and plants are grown using the latest developments in biomass heating, solar energy, and recycled roof rainwater as part of the growing process.  

The move towards British Grown peat-free and soil-free houseplants, most importantly, helps to conserve rare peatlands and their unique biodiversity, as well as combatting climate change. The new British Grown peat-free houseplant range has been grown in a variety of composts, including recycled coir as well as more novel waste materials such as green waste from cut flowers (such as lily and peony) and soft fruit production. The material is shredded and then steamed to create a perfect growing media with good water retention and ideal texture​. New point of sale and care instructions have been developed to help Blue Diamond customers identify the British Grown peat free collection and helping to facilitate a greater understanding of its importance.

Nick Jones, Head of Product Direction says, ‘We are proud to be supporting this initiative to help meet our responsibility as a retailer in eradicating the use of peat. The recycled growing media has produced plants to the highest standards, which we are excited to exhibit at RHS Urban Manchester and stock in all our Blue Diamond Garden Centres. We will continue to work with our UK growers to increase the peat-free collection, ultimately providing our customers with a 100% British grown peat-free range, whilst in the meantime, working with our European partners to procure other peat-free solutions’.

Our peat-free range of houseplants, including our British grown peat free range, is available to buy in all 44 Blue Diamond Garden Centres and selected varieties are available online at bluediamond.gg/all-about-houseplants. Plants includes favourites such as phalaenopsis orchids, calathea, dracaena and monstera in addition to seasonal products, in 12 and 17cm pots. 

Blue Diamond is also exhibiting at RHS Urban Manchester, a new and exclusive range of stylish and contemporary, plant pot covers. The range, called ECOMADE, are British designed and made in a purpose-built facility in Glastonbury, Somerset, using 30% UK sourced coffee grounds and 55% recycled and recyclable plastic.

In the UK, we drink approximately 98 million cups of coffee per day, which means that half a million tonnes of ground coffee waste go to landfill. When breaking down in landfill this releases harmful methane gases, creating a greenhouse effect 28 times higher than carbon dioxide. The aim is to reduce this waste destined for landfill. To give some context, with the initial order by Blue Diamond to the supplier of the ECOMADE pot covers, 530kg of coffee waste destined for landfill, was able to be recycled by Blue Diamond.  From bean to pellet to pot, we like to think it’s all about repurposing your morning brew!

The covers are made using renewable energy sources, including solar power. The site in Somerset has over 2000 solar panels and is committed to only use 100% green energy from 2025 onwards.

The range includes 4 colours, rose, dark blue, sage and light blue and 2 pot sizes 14cm and 18cm.  The RRP’s range from £5.99 to £9.99. The 18cm pots will be launched in 44 Blue Diamond Garden Centres in 2024. 

At Blue Diamond, we are aware that we are part of a greener, cleaner future. We are taking steps to reduce our carbon footprint and promote a greener, cleaner way of working and we know there is much to do to reduce impact on our environment.  For further information on Blue Diamond’s environmental strategy please visit https://www.bluediamond.gg/environment

Husband-and-wife team Murry and Caroline Newbury, who have more than 25 years’ experience in the horticulture industry, have taken over at Hope Valley Garden Centre in the Peak District near Sheffield.

The established garden centre has been recently owned by Emma Proctor, who has now entrusted Murry and Caroline with the development of the business.

Murry and Caroline plan to introduce a customer loyalty scheme and an e-commerce website,  and hope to develop a large indoor showroom.

Murry revealed to Dronfield Eye that the couple called in at the garden centre and found the business was on the market.

He said: “We were looking to take on a new challenge so it was meant to happen.”

Resolva, the trusted and effective solution for garden weeds from Westland Horticulture, returns to TV screens for a 13th year from 1st May 2024. 

The TV creative highlights the irritating problem of nuisance weeds and reinforces Resolva as the simple solution that tackles weeds fast, giving gardeners back control and more time to enjoy their garden. The media investment targets ABC1 45+ adults and will be visible on high reach channels such as ITV1, Channel4 and Sky, as well as prominent video on demand channels including All4 and Sky, reaching both traditional and digital media viewers.  

Emma Chamberlain, Senior Marketing Lead, at Westland Horticulture, commented: “Our sustained investment in media campaigns year after year not only drives category participation but also strengthens Resolva’s position as the preferred choice for weed control solutions among consumers. Resolva has high brand awareness and has long been a trusted brand with a reputation for fast, effective and targeted weed eradication. From spot treatments to large-scale applications, Resolva ensures your customers’ gardens remain pristine without the back-breaking effort.”  

In addition to raising awareness of Resolva through media awareness, Westland is supporting their customers; by driving visibility to maximise sales in store through the brand’s Win A Car promotion. Consumers that purchase a Resolva product can enter the prize draw to win a brand new electric Mini, worth £32,500. There’s also a variety of sub prizes up for grabs including holidays and Westland garden hampers. The promotion is live throughout the full peak gardening season, closing on 31^st August 2024.

As an appreciation for retail partners, the best in store displays of the Resolva Win A Car promotion will be rewarded with monthly chocolate hampers worth £100 for the team to share. Simply share images of in store display set ups with gpitcher@westland.com to be in with a chance of winning.

The Greenfingers Charity was saddened to hear about the recent passing of John Adkins, the charity’s first Garden Project Manager.

John played an integral part in the development of the charity, coming onboard in its infancy, alongside Richard Jackson and John Little, and making his mark immediately. John’s legacy includes the first Greenfingers garden at Demelza House Hospice, Sittingbourne, which is now the recipient of an additional Greenfingers garden space, 25 years later.

One person that has been alongside John throughout his time at Greenfingers and beyond, is his daughter, Carolyn Dando. She recalls his passion for his work: “After my father retired from PBi, he worked for the Greenfingers Charity designing and creating gardens in children's hospices all over the UK. He did this for over a decade and was so proud of the work they did and the amazing gardens that the children could benefit from.

“These designs included Teletubby hills with tunnels underneath, pirate ships and elephants to climb with sensory planting, raised beds, musical pipes and more. Up until he passed away, he remained grateful to Richard Jackson who gave him such a wonderful opportunity to play a pivotal role at a charity he loved.”  

Talking about his friend and colleague, Richard Jackson, founder of the Greenfingers Charity, said: “John joined Greenfingers as a volunteer during a particularly challenging period and immediately made a difference. Within just three weeks he had organised a promotion that raised £10,000 for the charity! John had an enthusiastic ‘can – do’ attitude which he applied with great gusto whilst at Greenfingers and, over time, helped us transform many areas of the charity including the design and building of our gardens. During my time as chairman, his wise advice helped us in many of the key decisions we were making, and I always felt immensely grateful for his sound guidance. John made a huge contribution to our work.”

Sue Allen, current Chairman at Greenfingers added: “John was the very first person I spoke to regarding Greenfingers almost 25 years ago, when he was ringing around locally to get plants sorted for that first garden at Demelza. I was then on the management committee with him, and we always had a good laugh together. I know he always went above and beyond in everything he did in overseeing the projects, putting so much time and energy into it all.  His contacts within the industry were amazing.”

The celebration of John’s life will take place in Sussex. If you wish to share your memories working with John, please contact carolyndando@hotmail.com

A JustGiving page has also been set up in John’s memory, with John’s family asking for donations in lieu of flowers. All money raised will be donated to the Greenfingers Charity. See more at https://www.justgiving.com/page/carolyn-dando-1712246652980

Find out more

To follow all the latest updates from Greenfingers on social media - @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn, https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/ and @GreenfingersCha on Twitter.

Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend,celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of serving the local community with gardening expertise, quality plants and much more! 

To mark the anniversary, Millbrook invited customers to join them for a day of celebration on the 30th March. Entertainment was provided by local group Rock Choir Kent, led by Paul Gostling and a 30th birthday cake was handmade by Millbrook staff.

As a gesture of thanks to its loyal customers, Millbrook delighted the first 300 customers who made a purchase on the day, with a special gift of a beautiful Dianthus plant, symbolising the company’s commitment to growing smiles and enhancing gardens across the county.

To add to the day’s celebrations, Millbrook’s Managing Director, Tammy Woodhouse, presented a giant cheque for the sum of £38,561.48, to Millbrook’s founder and Chairman Sue Allen, who is also Chairman of Greenfingers, the charity of the horticulture industry, which creates magical gardens for children’s hospices across the UK. Thanks to the generosity of customers and staff over the previous 3 years at both of Millbrook’s Kent-based centres at Gravesend and Staplehurst, the money was raised through a number of events, including shopping evenings, raffles, Garden Re-Leaf weekends, virtual plant purchases and children’s planting workshops. Their customers also made a huge difference through Pennies, adding a 25p donation to their transactions at the tills.

Money raised has already gone towards the construction and planting of a beautiful garden at local children’s hospice Demelza in Sittingbourne, Kent, to ensure life-limited children and their families can benefit from an inspiring outdoor space. 

Millbrook Garden Company is also marking another milestone this year with 45 years in the horticulture industry, after the business was set up by Dick and Sue Allen in 1979. 

Reflecting on the journey of Millbrook Garden Centres, Managing Director, Tammy Woodhouse, said: ‘It’s been a rollercoaster and a joy and there’s certainly never a dull day! I’m really proud of what my parents, Dick and Sue Allen, achieved. The business has changed a lot over the years. Most of our regular customers will know we’ve now got a 300-seater restaurant, Food Hall and butchers at Gravesend and we run events and focus on the experience of shopping at Millbrook. But in amongst that, it’s still the plants and the gardening that are at our core. Obviously, we are all aware that the world is changing and I’m proud Millbrook is leading changes in sustainable gardening with the greener products we’re selling and that is going to change even more as we go forward into the next 45 years. Thank you to all our customers - we wouldn’t be here without all of you - and thank you to our team who are hugely passionate and who really do grow smiles for our customers every day. Here’s to the next 45 years!’

Receiving the cheque on behalf of Greenfingers, Sue Allen, Chairman of Greenfingers, said: ‘Greenfingers has been going for 25 years and the first garden built was at Demelza House. Obviously, the cost of building these precious gardens is going up and up and the recent Demelza garden was around £150,000, so £38,000 is an amazing sum towards that. Every penny Millbrook has raised is so, so welcome. Thank you everybody!’

Cavendish Maine Recruitment is sponsoring Kate Ebbens’ 366-day run for Greenfingers throughout April.

For over 30 years Cavendish Maine has been working with garden trade suppliers, recruiting talented people to sales and marketing roles that enable companies to stand out and thrive. 

In recent years this has broadened to include roles in the supply chain and ecommerce channel as suppliers seek expertise in challenging areas that can deliver a market advantage. 

Nick Hester leads a recruitment team of 12 and is always available to discuss your potential recruitment challenges or career goals. Cavendish Maine is based within (possibly) the most attractive serviced office building in the UK, set in 25 acres of grounds and easily accessible to the motorway network. 

We have been really impressed by the work GIMA does to unite the industry and for GIMA’s ongoing work with Greenfingers so are delighted to have an opportunity to support Kate as she faces this challenge. Good luck Kate – you have properly put your body on the line for Greenfingers and presented a high bar for future GIMA Presidents! 

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

Garden furniture, grow your own and decorative garden structure specialist, Zest, part of the P&A Group, is fielding a team to take on the Manchester Marathon today, Sunday 14^th April, to raise money for North East Wales Mind, the P&A Group’s charity for 2024.  Nine employees will be taking part.

Steve Morgan, Zest’s Managing Director said, “I am thrilled to announce the team’s enthusiastic participation in the upcoming Manchester Marathon. It is a powerful testament to our commitment to raising awareness of mental health issues as we support North East Wales Mind as our chosen charity this year.”

The team is made up of people from across the business, including Hazel Bainbridge, Andrew Baker, Iwan Gwyn, Ben Morgan, Richard Shaw and Reza Yaghoubi. They will be joined by Pawel Czapiewski, Krzysztof Narloch and Jan Wardyn representing one of Zest’s Polish partner companies. 

Andrew Baker, experienced marathon runner and Director of Finance at Zest commented, “Completing the marathon distance takes a great deal of mental and physical stamina but our mission is about more than that; it's about fostering a community of support, understanding, and compassion. We firmly believe that spending time with others, immersing ourselves in the great outdoors, and engaging in physical activity are not just hobbies but essential tools in our arsenal against the struggles of mental health.”

Manager, Iwan Gwyn said,“We’re all really looking forward to the event and raising as much money as we can for North East Wales Mind.  In a world where the importance of mental well-being cannot be overstated, we believe it's crucial to come together and shine a spotlight on the significance of supporting one another's mental health journeys. That's why we're lacing up our running shoes, ready to hit the pavement and make a difference. The Manchester Marathon isn’t going to be easy– but we’ve got a great team spirit and I know that we’ll keep each other going until we all cross the finish line.”

Hazel Bainbridge, Zest’s HR Director, added, “This will be my very first marathon so it will be a big ask but it’s no comparison to the daily battle of living with mental distress.  It’s important to do more to remove the stigma and silence that surrounds mental well-being and make it easy to talk about our mental health so supporting the work that North East Wales Mind do is worth the effort. We hope to turn every step of the 26.2 miles into a beacon of hope, inspiring others to prioritise their mental well-being and embrace the transformative power of connection and movement.”

North East Wales Mind helps people in Flintshire and Wrexham recover from mental health problems and stay emotionally healthy. In addition to telephone counselling and emotional support, the charity offers a range of online services and activities. Their phone lines are open 10am til 4pm each weekday.

To donate to North East Wales Mind, please click here

Over the last 14 years, Zest employees have raised over £150,000 for a variety of charities alongside colleagues in the P&A Group.  These include Dementia UK,  British Heart Foundation, Macmillan Cancer Support, Hope House, and Tŷ Gobaith Children’s Hospices, Cancer Research UK, Action for Children, Alzheimer’s Society, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and Meningitis Now.

Zest was established in 2005 to bring high quality, sustainable timber garden products to garden centres, online retailers, builders’ merchants, and major purchasing groups across the UK.  For further information about Zest’s GYO, decorative and furniture products, visit www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk.

The team at a Bradford-headquartered garden centre group is celebrating after being shortlisted for two national people and culture awards.

Yorkshire Garden Centres Group has reached the finals of both the Best HR Team of the Year and the ESG Program of the Year categories of the UK Company Culture Awards. The awards recognise organisations that nurture their workforce, reward their staff, and create an environment that proves everyone is valued.

Yorkshire Garden Centre's Head of People and Culture, Neil Barwise-Carr said: "The UK Company Culture Awards celebrate fresh, adaptive businesses like Yorkshire Garden Centres that value their teams and strive to care for their career development, mental health, and physical well-being. We've got an amazing team who are delivering on numerous People, Climate and Community initiatives to make a difference to everyone working within our six garden centres, and to their respective communities."

In the ESG Program of the Year, Yorkshire Garden Centres faces competition from Intersoft and Ogury, while fellow finalists in the HR Team Award include Cooper Parry, Cuckoo People Team, Homes for Students, and TrunkBBI. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at The Sheraton Grand, Park Lane, London, on 2nd May.

The UK Company Culture Awards are organised by Don't Panic, a B2B events agency specialising in corporate award ceremonies.

The Yorkshire Garden Centres (YGC) group comprises Tong, Tingley, Otley and Bingley Garden Centres and the recently acquired Dean's York and Dean's Scarborough. Otley and Bingley Garden Centres were known as Stephen H Smith's before they were acquired by YGC in 2022.

Earth Day is an annual event that unites millions of people to help safeguard our planet and fight for a brighter future! This year on 22nd April, Earth Day is campaigning for a 60% reduction of all plastic production by 2024 with its theme ‘Planet vs Plastics’ to raise awareness of the impact that single use plastics are having on our environment, health, and climate. Garden, glove and footwear specialist, Town & Country, shares this dedication to reducing single use plastics, and has a great range of items for anyone looking to make the switch to a more sustainable lifestyle. From Wellington boots made from old wellies and gardening gloves made from ocean plastic waste, Town & Country is committed to providing sustainable options for those who want to join in the fight for a more vibrant future for our earth.

Fitting with the 2024 theme of Earth Day Town & Country has launched a range of gloves made from ocean plastic waste, making them recycled, washable, and reusable. The Eco-Flex range has been designed to meet the demand for reducing single-use plastic and allows people to buy a pair of gloves for long-term use, while also contributing towards a sustainable environment. The collection is hard-wearing and tough, and includes four new pairs of gloves, to cater for different gardening needs.

Town & Country’s new ‘boots made from boots’ are the perfect, environmentally conscious choice for those who love getting outdoors no matter the weather. The ECO-Essential Wellington Boots provide both sustainability and comfort. Crafted from old, recycled wellies, these boots offer exceptional waterproof protection and are built to last. Whether you're navigating rainy days, muddy terrains, or working in wet conditions, these boots will keep your feet dry and comfortable. They are also perfect for long comfortable walks due to their flexibility, shock-absorbing heel and deep tread. The boots are available in UK sizes 3-12 and are available in a full knee or a shorter calf length.

Town & Country’s tiered planters are perfect for creating a beautiful display of flowers in a sustainable way. The UK-made planters are made from 100% recycled plastic and are 100% recyclable so are ideal for continued use year after year. With a twist and a stack interlocking design, the design of the planters can be easily changed. This means gardeners can create a completely unique display whenever they feel like it, without the need to purchase any new pots.

This boot tray is made from recycled polypropylene and approximately 14 plastic bottles per tray, making it an incredible accessory that cleverly removes plastic waste from our environment. It is a great garden accessory with multiple uses, the tray will store boots and shoes neatly by the door, stopping mud and water from leaking onto the floor, but it is also great to use in the car boot to keep things neat. It can even be used in the garden under plant pots to hold water, or when potting to contain mess. Its versatility is ideal for cutting down on the number of products gardeners need to keep their outdoor spaces mess-free!

As this important day of action approaches, there’s no better time to reflect on our individual carbon footprints and assess how our own actions are affecting the environment. It’s time to challenge ourselves to be more environmentally sustainable in all aspects of our lives and choosing recycled, eco-friendly products over disposable, single use plastics, is just one simple way to promote a greener planet. Find out more about Town & Country’s products on https://www.townandco.com/.

The exhibitor list for the 2024 edition of Glee – the leading trade exhibition for the garden retail sector (10th-12th September, NEC Birmingham) - is rapidly expanding with the confirmation that Andersons and Mulch will be debuting its latest garden glove and sundries offering at this year’s event.

Part of the Centurion family of brands, there has never been a better time for Andersons and Mulch to showcase its gardening offering to the thousands of garden centre owners and operators that make Glee an essential part of their buying calendar.

Visitors to the joint brand stand will be treated to a first glimpse at the updated Andersons branding, marking a new chapter for the garden sundries brand that has provided solutions to gardeners since 1825. The Mulch glove offering will also be celebrating the launch of an expanded range designed to deliver garden retailers – and gardeners – with even more premium glove options. Mulch is on a mission to breathe new life into the garden glove category, providing a style to suit all typical garden jobs.

Jackie Baker commented: “Both Andersons and Mulch are backed by real market insight and experience, delivered to the market by a team that is passionate about igniting sales, bringing newness to market and ensuring that our offering is responsive to the needs of the modern consumer. At Glee this year we will present a fresh look at the world of garden sundries whilst also generating new conversations about garden gloves and how the lines between commodity products and gifting essentials have become more blurred than ever, and how Mulch has responded. We can’t wait to be onsite to share more about our next chapter for both Andersons and Mulch.”

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, please visit www.gleebirmingham.com or call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

Further details about Andersons and the Centurion family of brands can be found at www.centurioneurope.co.uk/andersons, whilst all-things Mulch can be viewed at www.mulchgarden.co.uk

Durstons are set to storm the market with their brand-new consistent and reliable peat-free range, enriched by sustainable game-changing material Gro Fibre.

The result of extensive R&D, operational improvements and new technologies, this remarkable collection is designed to provide retail customers with choice and the opportunity to stock a market-leading comprehensive range of peat-free growing media.

Utilising a brand-new ingredient, Gro Fibre, which supports moisture retention and doesn’t lock nutrients, Durstons have created an exciting new range of products that outperforms competitors’ peat-free and peat-based media, and delivers exceptional plant quality.

This new, improved peat-free growing media provides better air space and greater moisture availability, enabling plants to establish strong roots, quickly. The outstanding collection benefits from a unique nutrient package, also enhanced by Durstons’ unique GRO BOOST additive, providing plants with all the vital elements required for healthy growth.

Gro Fibre is exclusive to Durstons in the UK, creating compost with a consistent, fluffy texture, that doesn’t suffer from shrinkage or slump, and delivers a reliably impressive performance, year in, year out, without the need for re-formulation; all of which is ideal for increasing consumer confidence in peat-free growing media.

Redesigned packaging retains Durstons’ recognisable colour coding and showstopping imagery but with key messages clearly highlighted on pack, so that consumers can quickly and easily determine the product’s USPs and ideal application, as well as the fact that the range is peat-free, responsibly sourced, and made in the UK.

The range will be supported by brand-new, eye-catching and informative POS, which effectively communicates the benefits of these peat-free products to garden centre customers, helping them find the right growing media for each project.

As Durstons continues to invest in their state-of the-art production facility, increasing capacity and stock availability, the Somerset-based business has ensured that products from the new range are in stock and ready to go for the 2024 season.

Set to create fantastic opportunities for retailers in the peat-free category, products in the new range have performed consistently well in independent growing trials, demonstrating the reliability for consumers in all gardening applications. For more information about the independent test results or to try the range yourself, contact your local sales agent.

Find out more

Durstons have been established for over 150 years. Find out more at www.durstongardenproducts.co.uk or call 01458 442688.

GTN March 2024. In this issue:

• Gift Packaging from Woodmansterne
• Group Commitment – GTN Interview with Caroline Owen, Chair of the Tillington Group
• New retail solutions from Artevesi
• What’s Hot in 2024 – New products launched at the Garden Press Event
• Maximising seed sales at Mr Fothergills
• 25 years of Greenfingers FUNdraising
• Garden Re-Leaf Day 2024
• Strictly Blue Diamond – Exclusive Awards coverage
• New at Solex for 2024
• Products to delight from Spring Fair
• Be the best plant specialists – GTN Planteria special report
• A brighter shade of green – LOFA Column
• Three days of PATS in September 2024
• Celebrating 125 years – HTA Column
• The start is everything – GIMA Column

with all the news direct to your e-mail inbox.  The best news service every weekend and all the breaking news as it happens.

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Kevin Burgess, director of Leon Boots, completed the London Landmarks Half Marathon in 2 hours 9 minutes 57 seconds wearing a pair of the company’s popular boots.

Kev said after his welly run: “I can confidently say NO blisters , but painful calves.”

The prestigious Garden Media Guild Awards – affectionately known as the gardening ‘Oscars’ - are set to return on 22nd November, with The Savoy in London providing a stunning backdrop to proceedings. 

Celebrating writers, photographers, broadcasters and social media influencers, these awards bring together the most passionate and skilled professionals from the garden media sphere.

As preparations get underway for this year’s event, the Garden Media Guild has confirmed that only a handful of sponsorship opportunities are still remaining. Interested parties who are keen to show their support for this coveted event are invited to register interest now to avoid missing out.

With a total of 18 awards in the GMG Awards roster, there are now only six categories without a sponsor. They are:

• Peter Seabrook Practical Book of the Year
• The Roy Lancaster Writing Award (new for 2024)
• Practical Journalist of the Year
• Gordon Rae Photographer of the Year
• Portfolio Photographer of the Year
• Garden Video of the Year

Any brand joining the sponsors line-up will be in good company alongside The Beth Chatto Education Trust, STIHL, Westland, Miracle-Gro, Thompson & Morgan, Johnsons Lawn Seed, RocketGro, The Garden Press Event, Cobra, Roses UK, Charles Dowding and the HTA, who are all already confirmed as 2024 sponsors.

Every sponsor receives eight tickets to the awards ceremony - a chance to invite key members of the media to enjoy your hospitality, as well as customers or wider members of the team - plus branding at the event and across the awards marketing and communication content, including: The Garden Media Guild website, advertisement within the Awards brochure, ongoing social media promotion, discounted advertising rates within the GMG News, and also the use of the Garden Media Guild sponsor logo. A representative from each sponsor will also be invited on stage to present an award on the day.

Talking about this year’s sponsorship opportunities, Garden Media Guild Vice-Chair, Kimberley Hornby, owner of the garden specialist PR agency, Hornby George PR, said: “Sponsoring a Garden Media Guild Award is an exceptional opportunity to increase brand awareness and to nurture relationships with the writers, photographers and influencers who communicate with your brand’s customers.

“Additionally, by supporting the garden media with an award sponsorship, you’re showing that you’re interested in opening up dialogue and building relationships with this fully engaged and willing pool of garden media experts. Sponsors often remark that the connections made at the Awards result in ongoing relationships and measurable benefits, something that can otherwise take weeks, months or even years to generate by other means. I’d highly recommend any interested parties to reach out now to avoid missing out.”

Find out more

Any brand interested in finding out more about sponsoring the 2024 Garden Media Guild Awards are invited to register their interest with the organising committee by emailing admin@gardenmediaguild.co.uk

Further details regarding the 2024 Garden Media Guild Awards can be found at www.gardenmediaguild.co.uk/awards

Celebrate Keukenhof’s 75th anniversary and go on a journey through 75 years of music with the Metropole Orkest jazz and pop orchestra.

On the evening of Wednesday 8 May, the day before Ascension Day, the historical Keukenhof Estate and its thousands of tulips will provide an enchanting setting for a unique anniversary concert. Led by the Metropole Orkest jazz and pop orchestra and artists Jeangu Macrooy, Emma Heesters, Trijntje Oosterhuis, Ruben Hein and Shirma Rouse, the concert will take you on an inspiring journey through 75 years of music. Get ready for global hits, sumptuous soul, fantastic funk, dancing disco and cool crooners. The spoken parts of the concert will be in Dutch.

Celebrate the Keukenhof Flower Show’s 75th anniversary with us at this unique open-air concert at the Keukenhof Estate, Wednesday 8 May, 7:30 PM to 9 PM.

Admission tickets: first row €34, second row €30, third row €26. Parking costs €8.

Please purchase your tickets at https://keukenhof.nl/nl/evenementen/keukenhof-concert/

Please note that the Dutch broadcaster Omroep Max will be recording excerpts of the concert for a showing later in the year.

Marcus Eyles has decided to move on from his role as Horticulture Director at Dobbies to pursue a new chapter in his illustrious 40-year career.

Marcus joined Dobbies, in 2017 as Head of Online, before progressing to Purchasing Director, and latterly Horticultural Director.

Marcus’ passion for gardening dates back to his childhood and he started his career at Hillier Nurseries in 1983, progressing to Merrist Wood College in 1985.  After a year in London working for Tropical Plants Display, he then moved into retail with Country Gardens plc in 1989. He was promoted quickly to store manager and then to Head of Plant Buying for the group. In 2001, he started The Garden Store Ltd and grew this business to eight garden centres across the midlands. With his friends and family, he ran the business successfully before selling it in 2014. 

David Robinson, CEO of Dobbies, said: “Marcus’ knowledge and passion for plants and gardening has been instrumental in developing our horticultural range and offering over the last seven years. We wish him all the best for the next chapter of his extraordinary career.”

Marcus Eyles added: “There have been many high points in my time as part of the Dobbies team, including the five-star award and best trade stand at RHS Chelsea Flower Show; the development of our own brand peat-free compost which won the RHS Sustainable Garden Product of the Year award; and best stand at the Garden Press Event. 

“What I am most grateful for is my team, past and present, who have always given myself and the business their conscientious dedication, loyalty and passion to deliver the best trading results possible.

“As I work on the next chapter of my career, I want to wish Dobbies the best for spring and beyond.”

Dobbies has 77 stores across the UK, employs 3,800 people and has welcomed over 30 million customers in the year-to-date.

Last week after a visit to Dobbies Peterborough over the Easter weekend GTN Xtra asked Dobbies for feedback as we were expecting to see shelves full of stock (as per their comment earlier in March). In the Peterborough store there were still big and obvious gaps in certain product areas and while all other centres we visited over the weekend had their planetaria's brimming with plants, a large area of the Dobbies planteria was still empty.

Here is Dobbies reply in full:

A spokesperson for Dobbies Garden Centres said: “Spring is a very busy time for Dobbies and we have new products landing in stores each week. We closely monitor sales and weather trends across each of our stores to minimise wastage.  

“Dobbies Peterborough plant stock and sales are up year to date. Our colleagues are working hard to ensure shelves are stocked but we also have to be responsive to the weather - with wet and windy conditions over the weekend, we had to consider what was on the shop floor. 

“We are looking forward to showcasing even more new product to customers over the coming weeks and months.” 

Dobbies has appointed Stephen Pitcher in a consultancy role, working closely with the gardening and horticultural teams.

Stephen has extensive experience with national UK brands, including Homebase, B&Q and Wyevale, and will be supporting Dobbies’ gardening and horticultural team, headed up by Commercial Director, Andy Hannan. Stephen will focus on ensuring Dobbies’ delivers the best ranges for its customers, as well driving product development, working with the supplier base and partners.

Stephen Pitcher said: “Dobbies is on an exciting journey and I see many opportunities to support the team to build on their already excellent ranges, refining product development aligned with the brand purpose and strategy. It’s an exciting time for the business and I’m really motivated to play my part, bringing my insight and knowledge of the industry to the commercial team.”

Andy Hannan, Commercial Director at Dobbies, said: “Stephen has fantastic knowledge and experience, making him the ideal person for this consultant position. He’s worked with some of the biggest names in UK retail and we look forward to drawing on this experience.”

Dobbies has 77 stores across the UK, employs 3,800 people and has welcomed over 30 million customers in the year-to-date.

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).  

If you’re a regular at the GIMA Golf Day we’re returning to our original format of a team of 4 playing for the trophy.  The format will be a 4 ball, better ball and all score cards will be collected at the end of play.  Your scores will be added  to give an overall team result.  Don’t worry if you don’t have your own team of four as we’ll make up the teams with either individual players or pairs that enter.

This year, the GIMA Charity Day will be raising funds for Greenfingers, the 2024 chosen charity of GIMA’s President.

100% of the money raised on the day, will be given to the charity, enabling them to build even more beautiful gardens at children’s hospices throughout the UK.

Book now by clicking here.

The design and care of gardens is more diversified than ever today: Innovative, multifunctional garden tools, environmentally-friendly care methods, CO2 neutral and recycled products as well as the growing popularity of subsistence gardens are uniting efficiency and sustainability when it comes down to garden work. From 16 to 18 June 2024, the largest garden and BBQ trade fair in the world will present precisely these trends in the theme world "garden creation & care".

International exhibitors will give insights into their latest developments and products from the garden care section - from plants and their cultivation, to optimal care, through to the appropriate tools and machines. A look at some of the current garden care trends.

All in one: multifunctional garden tools
Today, the garden is a space that fulfils multiple purposes and as such the tools needed for its care are becoming increasingly versatile. New electrical appliances offer numerous attachments and can be used as a brush, grout cleaner, lawnmower and edge trimmer. There are also quick-change systems for new mist blowers for the vertical and horizontal wetting of plants. The power for alliance initiative also contributes towards today's versatility: More and more companies are joining initiatives that enable the operation of the diverse tools of different manufacturers and the use of the same battery. For their storage, new tool sheds are individually designable and extendable.

Gentle care: Garden work for more variety
To protect the flora and fauna more and more regional, natural protection and care products are being used when gardening. For example, modern fertilisers are made from clover or sheep's wool. Using one's own compost as a fertiliser also promotes environmentally-friendly plant care. Large and small models of practical composters are available for this purpose. Weeds are also eliminated without the use of chemicals, for example at the push of a button with electronic ignition burners. Endangered plant species, which belong to the line-ups of many garden centres today, contribute towards maintaining the biodiversity.

Own harvest: Trend towards self-sufficiency
Growing one's own herbs, fruit and vegetables started to become increasingly popular even before the food prices went up. Even if only limited space is available, their cultivation is being made easier with the aid of small greenhouses, plant towers and pyramids. Stackable trays enable space-saving storage. Furthermore, easy-to-operate and compact tools are being offered, especially for urban gardening. And in case it gets too hot on small outdoor areas, plant pots protect the greenery up to temperatures of 50 degrees Celsius. There are water butts with integrated plant holders that offer additional cultivation areas.

Greener industry: CO2 neutral and recycled products
Overall, the green industry is becoming "greener". Many suppliers use wind power and green electricity for the production of their garden products in the meantime. Remaining emissions are compensated for by promoting reforestation or climate protection projects. Many new garden products are 100 percent recyclable or CO2 neutral. Renewable raw materials such as wood from sustainably managed forests are increasingly being used for the materials for greenhouses or plant growing aids. Furthermore, plant pots are often made out of other natural materials like seaweed, reused wickerwork or recycled plastic.

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". To learn more about the event, visit www.spogagafa.com.

Koelnmesse – Global Inspiration for Living, Contract and Public Spaces
Koelnmesse is the world’s top trade fair organiser for the areas of Living, Contract and Public Spaces.
At the trade fair hub of Cologne, in addition to imm cologne and interzum, other trade fair formats such as ORGATEC, spoga+gafa, FSB and aquanale are among the internationally renowned and established industry meeting places. These fairs comprehensively represent the interior and design segment, the furniture and interior construction industries' supplying sections, the kitchen world, all topics for the modern working world, garden lifestyle as well as public space, sports and leisure facilities and also sauna, pool and ambiente.

In addition to the events in Cologne, Koelnmesse is strategically expanding its portfolio in key growth markets around the globe like with the successful shows ORGATEC TOKYO in Japan, interzum bogota in Colombia and interzum guangzhou in China and interzum forum italy.
Further information: https://www.spogagafa.com/trade-fair/spoga-gafa-2024/industry-trade-fairs/

Founded in 2006, Artevasi has become the world's leading manufacturer of environmentally friendly, sustainable pots made from recycled plastic. They now export to over 50 countries on 5 continents, with offices worldwide.

In 2022, Artevasi took a bold step forward and invested hugely to build a brand-new state-of-the-art terracotta factory. With 160 years of family know-how in the production of terracotta pots, that desire was already in the blood of the owner and CEO, Rodolfo Resende, who spent most of his childhood out of school in his grandparents' factory, eager to help and learn the family trade.

Located in Boialvo, a small town in the district of Aveiro, the new factory covers an area of 70,000 square metres and has a production capacity of 40,000 pots per day, with production and logistics working around the clock to produce the most beautiful and sustainable terracotta pots.

Longacres seizes the opportunity

Liam Barrett of Longacres Garden Centres visited the new Artevasi factory in July 2023 and was keen to be one of the first garden centres in the UK to take advantage of the new retail solution on offer. Liam said: "The quality of the Artevasi terracotta is excellent, and the wide range of products available gives us options that will help us to offer something different to our customers that we can't get from our other suppliers, particularly in terms of larger sizes and different colours."

Artevasi fully controls the production process, and because you buy directly from the manufacturer, you are assured of the best prices. With the cost-of-living crisis affecting household disposable income, value for money is crucial, and to offer your customers the best value, you need to buy at the best cost prices. By buying direct from the factory, you can do just that. 

With full production of three collections in recycled plastic, handmade ceramics and terracotta, Artevasi produces all its pots in Portugal, focusing on the quality of the raw materials to create the most beautiful and sustainable pots.

For more information, please contact UK Director Darren Boorman, speak to your local sales agent, or email general@artevasi.co.uk

www.artevasi.co.uk

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

In order to ensure that everyone can fully immerse themselves in the Exhibition and exciting SOLEX Evening Events, we have secured Special Hotel Rates For Visitors who wish to attend these events and stay overnight on Tuesday 9th or Wednesday 10th July.

For the exclusive price of £100 per room, per night, SOLEX visitors can take advantage of this offer and enjoy a comfortable stay while attending the exhibition and events. This offer is not to be missed!

Don't miss out! Follow the link to book your stay BOOK NOW

or scan this QR Code:

N.B. Hotel rooms are subject to availability. Offer ends 30 April 2024.