Our team of judges have their sleighs ready to start the judging process for GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards 2023.

If you think your Christmas teams are the best in the business, now’s the time to get them nominated for GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards 2023.

There are categories to recognise display teams, Christmas Trees sales teams, marketing teams and back this year are the much sought after Greatest Festive Garden Centre Catering team, The Greatest Garden Centre Grotto team and The Greatest Christmas Wild Bird Care and Pet team awards.

It's simple to take part, all you have to do is nominate your teams for the award categories below in an e-mail to trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk including a few words about why our team of judges should come and meet your team and a photo or two that we can include in our GTN Xtra Christmas photo galleries. The closing date for nominations to guarantee a visit from our judges is Monday 6^th November 2023.

Here are the categories for GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards 2023

• The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team
• The Greatest Christmas Tree and Outdoor Plant Team
• The Greatest Christmas BBQ and Outdoor Leisure Team – The Solex Sizzle
• The Greatest Christmas Wild Bird Care & Pet Team
• The Greatest Christmas Marketing Team
• The Greatest Christmas Community Event
• The Greatest Festive Gardening Gifts Team
• The Greatest Festive Retail Food Hall Team
• The Greatest Festive Garden Centre Catering Team
• The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Video
• The Greatest Garden Centre Grotto Team
• The Greatest Group Small Garden Centre Christmas Team*
• The Greatest Group Large Garden Centre Christmas Team*
• The Greatest Small Garden Centre Christmas Team
• The Greatest Mid-Sized Garden Centre Christmas Team
• The Greatest Large Garden Centre Christmas Team

*The Group Garden Centre awards are for centres that are part of groups with 5 or more centres

Judging visits will take place during November and December with the winners being announced on The Stage at Spring Fair on Monday 5^th February 2024.

As well as the kudos and fame from winning a Greatest Christmas award, our Gold winners in each category will win prizes including stock, services or hotel accommodation from our sponsors, which at time of going to press include:

• AMES
• Garden Radio
• Glee 2024
• Kaemingk
• LeisureGrow
• PATS 2024
• Smart Garden Products – Three Kings
• Solex 2024
• Stars for Europe
• Woodmansterne

Watch out for details of the prizes on offer in issues of GTN Xtra: www.gardentradenews.co.uk and in the next issue of GTN.

So, what are you waiting for, get snapping and send an e-mail today to trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk to get your entry registered.

What the judges will be looking for:

As GTN's Greatest Christmas Awards firstly recognise the amazing teamwork involved in garden centre Christmas retailing excellence we asked our judges what specific things they will be looking for in each Christmas Awards category this year:

• The Greatest Christmas Houseplant Team
  • Christmas theming of the displays, link sales and plants as Christmas presents 
• The Greatest Christmas Tree and Outdoor Plant Team
  • Extending the Christmas experience out into the Planteria, not only making the sale of cut trees fun and different but what is being done to promote link sales to trees as well as plants as presents. 
• The Greatest Christmas BBQ and Outdoor Leisure Team – The Solex Sizzle
  • Effort (and success) being put to inspiring  sales of BBQ’s, firepits, furniture, arbours and leisure items normally associated with summer rather than Christmas
• The Greatest Christmas Wild Bird Care & Pet Team
  • From a gondola end of Christmas pet treats to a whole department dedicated to wild bird care or pets of all shapes and sizes. The festive feeling generated by the team, from their attitude for sales to their inspirational displays.  Who has been bold enough to include a pet or wild bird care display in the main Christmas area?
• The Greatest Christmas Marketing Team
  • On and off centre Christmas marketing activity: advertising, p.o.s. video, social media, influencer promotions. We are looking for originality, execution and sucess.
• The Greatest Christmas Community Event
  • A one off ‘launch’ or an ongoing feature – for example a zoo, woodland walk, colouring competition, cookery demonstration or a charity fundraiser that engages the community and extends the Christmas experience.
• The Greatest Festive Gardening Gifts Team
  • This is all about creating sales at this time of year through inspirational use/display/promotion of regular gardening tools and sundries items in a festive setting /department which are capturing sales to both new annd experienced gardeners.
• The Greatest Festive Retail Food Hall Team
  • Food Hall, Farm Shop or just a department in the retail area. Looking for seasonal lines, offers and services to build unit sales as well as dressing of the area. What is special to your Garden Centre offer over other food retailers?
• The Greatest Festive Garden Centre Catering Team
  • What have you done to make your restaurant or coffee shop a part of the Christmas experience? Looking for dressing of the seating area, servery, menu, special offers, link sales, promotions and of course, Festive staff!
• The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas Video
  • Simply a Christmas promotional video that creates garden centre visits and sales.
• The Greatest Garden Centre Grotto Team
  • What have the team done this season to create a really memorable and enjoyable experience.
• The Greatest Group Small Garden Centre Christmas Team*
• The Greatest Group Large Garden Centre Christmas Team*
• The Greatest Small Garden Centre Christmas Team
• The Greatest Mid-Sized Garden Centre Christmas Team
• The Greatest Large Garden Centre Christmas Team
  • For all of the overall team awards the judges are looking for happy, festive garden centre teams who can keep their Christmas retailing standards at their best throughout the Christmas sales period. 

By popular demand we have brought back Customer Voting for The Greatest Garden Centre Christmas teams, after all it is what customers think that is most important. See the details here

The first Greatest Christmas Awards Team visit the judges carried out this year was at British Garden Centres Woodthorpe, back in August.  See our gallery of pictures below:

In previous years, GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards has enabled garden centre customers to be the ultimate arbiter of which teams across the country really are The Greatest, simply by voting for them.

By popular demand we are able to bring that key facet of the Greatest Awards back into play – now using just on-line voting.

If you think your customers would like to vote for you, all you need to do is print off the poster, as above, that can be accessed via this link: GTN Greatest Christmas Awards Voting Poster, display them in store, add a link to your social media pages or website where you can put the voting link or the QR code as below and let the voting begin.

It’s as simple as that.  Voting is open now and will remain open until 4:00pm on December 21^st.

Here is the link to the on-line voting page: GTN Greatest Christmas Awards On-Line Voting Link

Here is a link to the poster artwork: GTN Greatest Christmas Awards Voting Poster

Here is a link to the Voting QR code: GTN Greatest Christmas Awards Voting QR code

Voting is free, but we are partnering with The Greenfingers Charity so that voters can, if they wish, make a Christmas donation to help build more magical gardens in Children's Hospices across the country.

If you have any questions please contact: trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk

A 65% upsurge in reports of bed bug infestations, together with unprecedented media coverage of the misery that the miniature biting insects cause, is driving record sales of Zero In Bed Bug Killers.
 
Mammoth sales increases are being recorded by retailers across the UK, with hotspots in most major urban areas. London and Home Counties housewares retailer Robert Dyas has seen a bed bug bonanza in recent weeks, while other national and independent hardware and garden retailers are also cashing in.
 
The blood sucking insects, which can easily hide in luggage, are said to be hitching a lift into the UK with travellers returning from European summer holidays, including first class travel in the fabric of train seats aboard the Eurostar. 
 
With growing media attention and a population boom that looks set to continue, STV is encouraging retail partners to stock up.
 
The full Zero In Bed Bug Killer range is featured in STV’s new-season Autumn/Winter catalogue, available on request or for download:

There are attractive pre-season deals and special offers now available from leading national wholesalers, including Decco, Stax, and Home Hardware.

Zero In Bed Bug Killers are part of a range of speciality insect control products available under the Zero In brand, including flea, carpet beetle, clothes moth, and woodworm treatments. Zero In is the UK’s fastest growing insect control brand, now generating over £20 million of retail sales a year.

So make the most of your pre-season sales with Zero In Bed Bug Control. For further assistance please contact us at:
Email: sales@stvuk.com 
Phone: 01953 881580

The Klondyke Group Limited have announced the acquisition of The Crieff Food Company from founder Jamie Landale.

The award winning Perthshire business, includes a food hall, café and gift shop. The food hall offers a wide range of products from local suppliers and producers, plus its own butchers and deli selection.

The shop will continue to trade under the Crieff Food Company name and all of the staff will be retained by Klondyke.

Commenting on the acquisition David Yardley, Chief Executive of Klondyke said ‘The Crieff Food Company has been long admired by Klondyke and is a great addition to the group. The nature of the business works nicely alongside our garden centres and we look forward to working with the team at Crieff to learn from their foodie expertise.”

The Crieff Food Company is located at the High Street, Crieff.

Colin Stephens, Managing Director for Evergreen Garden Care UK, has today launched an open letter calling for inherent change in the industry. He says: "DEFRA owes it to gardeners up and down the country to make the Responsible Sourcing Scheme (RSS) industry protocol, ahead of the 2024 peat ban."

Stephens is inviting key industry players to join EGC in making the RSS a trusted stamp of both assured environment standards and product quality.  This journey is one that must be started without delay, to ensure that, as peat-free growing media continues to phase in, to ensure a more sustainable and transparent horticulture industry.  The RSS’ mission is parallel to EGC’s own when it comes to peat-free (to create responsibly sourced composts and soil mixes which lower potential impact on the environment), and Stephens is pushing to make this an industry-wide stance.

The full letter can be read below:

Dear DEFRA,

My name is Colin Stephens, I am the Managing Director for Evergreen Garden Care UK, one of the biggest manufacturers of compost in the UK.

Consumers are being blindsided. Choosing a responsibly sourced compost that genuinely has a low impact on the environment – and is good quality - isn’t clear-cut. In fact, it’s pretty murky. Things need to change. The growing media industry needs to change. 

The peat ban is a step in the right direction. It will help protect rare and precious peatlands which cover just 3% of the world's land area yet hold almost one-third of soil carbon. Not to mention, conserving the habitats of hundreds of wildlife species. But more needs to be done in the journey toward more sustainable ingredients. Peat content isn’t the only factor of compost manufacturing that we need to worry about.

Peat-free composts are composed of blends of various ingredients, including composted bark, coir, and green compost, to ensure efficacy without peat. Historically, peat was used as a consistent component with reliable quality, but due to the multiple elements in peat-free compost mixes, there is more scope for variability. The introduction of the peat ban brings challenges to quality assurance, eroding the previous assurance consumers had regarding the quality of their compost. There is no longer a guarantee that the compost you purchase will be effective in growing plants. 

The good news is that we already have the answer to the problem: the Responsible Sourcing Scheme independently assesses the environmental impact of compost and gives it a score from A (lowest environmental impact) to E (highest impact). The rating is rigorous and evidence-based. Everything that goes into creating the raw materials for peat-free compost is put under the microscope, from the use of energy and water to the way people are treated and how biodiversity is cared for. 

And not only that, but the Responsible Sourcing Scheme already has built into its foundations a requirement for quality: multipurpose compost cannot receive its sustainability rating without also being a viable growing medium. This might sound obvious but could be the answer to what we’re asking – as now, purchasing compost comes with no guarantee of performance.

The Responsible Sourcing Scheme (RSS) represents excellence. It should become industry protocol.

Yet in the solution also lies the problem. The use of the RSS logo is voluntary and has no government regulation. Any business in the industry – no matter what their ethics or standards – can join the scheme and use the logo on their packaging, even with scores unverified or unpublished. This leads to confusion for the consumers, who already only have a limited understanding of the challenges, and whitewashing for the environment. Inferior compost is masquerading as the best (and most eco-friendly) on the market. 

I want to see the RSS given the respect that it deserves, for DEFRA to make the standards legislation and for all players in the industry to ensure their product is up to scratch. 

The RSS must be a trusted stamp of both assured environment standards and product quality. In the dawn of a peat-free world, consumers shouldn’t have to accept poor-quality substitutes – especially not ones pretending to be the best. As an industry, we owe it to consumers to be transparent about whether we have the formula right or if we’re still working on it. It’s all about progress in the journey to a better world. 

I hereby call on our peers and industry counterparts to join us on a mission to create a more sustainable and transparent horticulture industry, without delay.

Signed,

Colin Stephens

Last week at the Greenfingers Charity AGM it was confirmed that Boyd Douglas-Davies, industry stalwart, Greenfingers Honorary member and founder of Garden Re-Leaf Day, has been appointed as the Greenfingers Charity’s newest Trustee and Chairman-Elect.

Joining a host of industry experts that already make up the Board of Trustees, Boyd will, in this new role, help to drive the strategic development of the charity through a range of campaigns and initiatives. A long-term supporter of Greenfingers, Boyd has been integral in some of the charity’s biggest fundraising events and has selflessly devoted his time to developing Greenfingers as the garden retail sector’s ‘chosen charity’.

In an exciting move, Boyd also steps into the role of Chairman-Elect, which will see him support current Chairman, Sue Allen as she approaches the end of her tenure in 2024, before taking on the role of Chairman to lead the charity into its next exciting chapter.

Talking of Boyd’s new role, Sue Allen welcomed him by saying: “I am beyond pleased to confirm that Boyd has agreed to join the fold once again through his role as Trustee and as Chairman-Elect. There is no one I’d rather hand over the reins to and have no doubt that under his leadership the Greenfingers Charity will continue to thrive.”

Boyd added: “Supporting Greenfingers is always an honour but to join as a Trustee once again, and Chairman-Elect, has surpassed all my expectations. I cannot wait to get going and helping to drive the future of the charity along with Linda and the team, as well as all our incredible supporters.”

Greenfingers Silver Anniversary update

With the charity’s Silver Anniversary fast approaching, it has been confirmed that the fundraising target of £2,000,025 has now surpassed the halfway mark.

With over £1 million banked thanks to the generosity of pocket and spirit of its hundreds of supporters, the remaining target remains ever in sight. One key driver has been the all-new partnership programme that has seen the likes of Clarins, Evergreen Garden Care, The AMES Companies, British Garden Centres, GIMA, Woodmansterne, Woodlodge, Garden Trade News, Richard Jacksons Garden, Garden Connect, Hornby Whitefoot PR, Meadow View Stone, Millbrook Garden Centres, SBM Life Science, Gardena, Rose Press Garden and many others all undertake a wide range of activities to support the charity as it celebrates its 25thanniversary.

With Platinum and Silver Partner packages available, as well as Sterling Ambassador pledges, joining the Silver Anniversary celebrations could not be easier. To find out more and to help Greenfingers smash the £2,000,025 fundraising total please contact Linda Petrons by emailing Linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk.

Find out more

You can also join in the conversation by joining Greenfingers on social media -https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/, @GreenfingersCha on Twitter, and @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn. 

• Winners include Haileybury College’s Science, Technology and Research Centre in Hertfordshire, and a distant descendant of Sir Isaac Newton’s family.
• Winners presented with their saplings at a ceremony on National Apple Day, at Woolsthorpe Manor in Lincolnshire, the home of the tree that inspired Sir Isaac Newton and from which the saplings have been propagated.
• Auction raised over £30k, of which 50% is being given to Woolsthorpe Manor, to ensure the long-term care of the tree.
• More than 1,800 bids were placed to secure a piece of living heritage, over the three weeks of the auction.

Europe’s largest conservation charity, the National Trust and Blue Diamond Garden Centres auctioned 10 saplings propagated from the apple tree that inspired Sir Isaac Newton’s theory of gravity.

At a presentation ceremony, held at Woolsthorpe Manor, the childhood home of Sir Isaac Newton and where he formed the Theory of Gravity, the 10 winners were presented with their saplings.

Amongst the winners, is a distant descendant of Sir Isaac Newton’s sister, a local Lincolnshire resident who lives only 10 miles from Woolsthorpe Manor and the newly built Science, Technology and Research Centre at Haileybury College in Hertford.  The winners had this to say about becoming custodian of one of the most significant trees in scientific history. 

Simon Heard Deputy Master of Haileybury College who secured one of the saplings for the school, thanks to the generosity of a number of parents commented “We have just finished building a brand-new Science, Technology and Research Centre, where we hope pupils will learn about modern research as well as the great scientific discoveries, deductions, theories and advancements, which have taken place over the years, not least the theory of gravity. 

“Having one of Sir Isaac Newton's very own apple tree descendants planted and then growing in the grounds seemed to be too good a chance to pass up! We are so excited that all future generations of pupils coming to the school will be able to work and study alongside such a significant piece of scientific history."

Lincolnshire local, Roger Keeling was delighted to have been successful in his bid and said, “I am awe struck in the presence of great, old trees. The sense of the people and time that have passed under their branches. 

“Newton’s apple tree has not only seen the passage of time in my home county of Lincolnshire, but forms a thread through centuries, connecting us with Lincolnshire’s most influential child. 

“This sapling, which will be planted in our home just 10 miles from Woolsthorpe Manor, will continue as a link to Newton. If it survives for over 350 years, as Newton’s tree has, someone will be able to observe an apple, genetically identical to Newtons, falling from its branches just as he did, but in the year 2373."

For the descendants of Sir Isaac Newton’s family, the chance to care for something so intrinsically linked to their ancestor, was not to be missed: “As soon as the family heard about the Newton’s sapling auction, we just knew that we had to have one.

“Our family is descended from Sir Isaac’s sister, Hannah, so this was a marvellous opportunity to reach back into the history of our family.

“We have a cider apple farm near Beaminster, West Dorset, and have been growing apples for 80 years and decided in 2020 to start our own family craft cider company. It had to be called Isaac Cider.

“We are thrilled to have a sapling as it will enable us to educate more people on the life and works of our ancestor.” 

The 10 saplings were propagated from the apple tree that inspired Sir Isaac Newton’s, which can still be seen at his birthplace; Woolsthorpe Manor in Lincolnshire. 

Now cared for by the National Trust this country cottage is visited by thousands of people a year, wishing to see the spot where one of the greatest scientific discoveries took place. The tree first put down roots around 400 years ago and people have travelled to visit it as Newton’s Apple Tree for at least the past 240 years.

The auction raised over £30K, of which Blue Diamond are donating 50% to the National Trust, specifically for the ongoing care of Woolsthorpe Manor. This donation, is part of the organisations long term licensing agreement with the charity, which will see Blue Diamond give £1m given to the Trust over the next three years for plant and garden conservation, through the sale of their collection of bulbs, seeds, native trees and roses.

Alan Roper, Managing Director of the Blue Diamond Grou, said: "The National Trust is a much loved and cherished institution, and I am pleased that our collaboration will provide funding for this charitable organisation, who for the past 128 years have preserved our heritage and open spaces for all to enjoy. Tree conservation and preservation is even more relevant and important than ever, and I am delighted that we were able to run this auction and support the National Trust through this.”

Andy Jasper, Director of Gardens and Parklands at the National Trust, said, “Interest in the auction was phenomenal with Blue Diamond receiving more than 1,800 inquiries from potential bidders. 

"It was wonderful to see that so many people and organisations understood the rarity of this moment and wanted to be custodians of such a significant tree – it’s a clear demonstration of how many people care about supporting the conservation of our natural world.

"It’s thanks to the support of Blue Diamond that we have been able to run this auction, and I am extremely grateful to them. Thanks to them, we now have 10 more genetic copies of this incredible tree, being cared for by such a wonderful group of passionate people, which we can call upon if we ever need to.

"For one of the saplings to be heading to a Science department, just fills me with joy. I’m sure Sir Isaac would also be thrilled that his legacy continues to inspire the scientists of the future.” 

The National Trust and Blue Diamond will be following the journey of these very important trees, with the hope that they will still stand in 400 years’ time.

In the latest Horticultural Trades Association Monthly Market Update, figures show that the UK garden retail market benefitted from an unexpected sunshine boost, and the sector is optimistic for the final quarter.

Laura Jeffery, HTA Market Research Manager, comments: “As September 2023 continued the trend of uncharacteristic weather for the time of year, with 1.2 times more sunshine hours and temperatures almost two degrees warmer on average compared to the previous year, we can see from the report that this translated to an increase in garden retail sales, with the notable and ongoing exception of weak sales of garden furniture.

“Overall sales and transactions were up by +8% compared to September 2022, with garden tools and plant categories performing well as people began their autumn planting. This also translated into particularly strong bulb sales, up by +10%. In the non-garden/gardening categories, we also saw an +11% boost in sales compared to the previous year, with increased footfall into cafes and restaurants within garden centres and transactions up by an impressive +19% compared to September 2022.

“Looking at the wider context, the Consumer Confidence Index climbed by +4 points in September and a +27 point improvement compared to September 2022. Wage growth across the economy also exceeded inflation earlier this year for the first time in two years. This is likely to have helped increase disposable income and consumer confidence; however, it also puts pressure on business overheads and the ability to recruit and retain the best talent. Despite the rise in confidence, we also remain cognisant that consumer confidence is still in negative territory, and people are grappling with increased costs and financial uncertainty. The value of baskets was only up +1%, and given price inflation, it could indicate less higher value goods in the basket compared to last year, but we are optimistic that our report shows that we are in a better position than last year.

“Looking forward, the garden retail industry remains adaptable and resilient, embracing shifts in consumer behaviour and economic conditions. The September numbers and recent months indicate we will see a positive end to the year. Businesses do, however, remain acutely aware of a fine balance between positive signs and challenges, with high input costs, not least energy costs over the winter months, which affects their businesses and their customers.”

The HTA has also recently launched a report into the Value of Plants, combining one of the most comprehensive literature reviews ever conducted into research into the value of plants with original research conducted by the HTA among 2,000 consumers into their plant purchasing behaviours. Consumers spend nearly £3 billion per year on plants and trees for their homes and gardens, with around half of this being spent in the UK’s garden centres, which receive around 200 million visits per year. By contrast, the broadcast ratings in France for the Rugby World Cup that has swept the host nation have a total cumulative audience of more than 164.5 million.

For more detailed insights and analysis, HTA members can refer to the HTA Monthly Market Update.

The Value of Plants report can be read here.

Blue Diamond Group Garden Centres continue their work supporting students studying horticulture through the Blue Diamond Scholarships, which are awarded annually by The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation. 

Since beginning the scholarship in 2021, the Blue Diamond Scholarships have awarded a total of £20,000 and 14 students have benefited from these awards, as they begin their journey into their career in horticulture. 

Alan Roper, Blue Diamond’s MD, said: “Peter Seabrook was one of the people who inspired me to my career as a horticulturalist, so we are really pleased to continue to offer these scholarships through the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation to help students studying horticulture.”

Colegrave Seabrook Foundation chair Jeff Colegrave added: “Whether a grower, retailer or supplier to the industry, we are all dependant on well trained, passionate and committed horticulturists making their career in horticulture. As a charity, The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation can only continue with their work supporting existing students and encouraging new people to consider horticulture as a career, with the support of companies and sponsors such as Blue Daimond. We are incredibly grateful to Alan and his team at Blue Diamond for their recognition of this."

One of this year’s Blue Diamond Scholars commented: “The scholarship has been incredible, it is a huge relief for myself in such a difficult time and I appreciate it greatly. I am looking forward to starting my Level 3 and become even more inspired by others - there’s just so many things one could do in horticulture and I want to do them all!”, while another said, “The funding that I received from the Blue Diamond Scholarship fund allowed for me to experience elements of the horticulture and food production industry abroad, and gave me a greater understanding of the sector. I am very grateful to have had this support."

The window for applying for a Blue Diamond Scholarship, or any of the other scholarships offered by the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation is now open. Applications must be received by the end of January. Successful applicants will be informed in March. For more details and to apply online please visit Scholarships - Colegrave Seabrook Foundation To be eligible to apply, you must be studying horticulture or plant science at a recognised college or university in UK or Ireland. You must be able to demonstrate a passion for horticulture and a commitment to making a career in the industry. 

Notcutts Dukeries Garden Centre has announced a meticulous restoration project that will breathe new life into the historic Edwardian Messenger Glasshouses located on the picturesque Welbeck Estate. This ambitious undertaking represents a significant commitment to preserving the heritage of the garden centre while enhancing the visitor experience.

The Edwardian Messenger Glasshouses, completed in the early 1900s under the instruction of the 6th Duke of Portland, were a welcome addition to the Kitchen Gardens created by the 5th Duke of Portland in the late 19th century.

Over the years, these magnificent structures have housed a diverse collection of exotic plants, and beautiful displays. 

The repair and restoration project aims to revitalise the Edwardian Messenger Glasshouses, ensuring they continue to serve as a focal point of horticultural excellence and inspiration for the community. Notcutts Dukeries Garden Centre recognises the historical significance of these glasshouses and their role in preserving and promoting the rich gardening heritage of the region.

Notcutts Dukeries Garden Centre is collaborating with skilled architects and heritage experts to ensure that the restoration project adheres to the highest standards of historical accuracy and conservation ethics.

"We are thrilled to embark on this ambitious project to restore the Edwardian Messenger Glasshouses to their former glory," said Andrew Rawson, Garden Centre Manager at Notcutts Dukeries Garden Centre. "Our commitment to repairing and preserving this vital piece of our horticultural heritage aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire and delight garden enthusiasts of all ages. We look forward to sharing the progress and the beauty of the rejuvenated glasshouses with our community."

The restoration works are taking place behind protective screening.  Windows have been introduced in the screening to allow customers to observe the work in progress.  Notcutts Dukeries Garden Centre welcomes the local community and garden enthusiasts from afar to witness the transformation of the Edwardian Messenger Glasshouses at the Welbeck Estate. The restoration project is expected to be completed in spring 2024.

Notcutts Dukeries Garden Centre is on the Welbeck Estate, Welbeck, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, S80 3LT (SatNav use S80 3LW). For more information, call 01909 476506 or visit notcutts.co.uk.

Photo caption: Notcutts Dukeries Garden Centre is conducting the restoration of Edwardian Messenger Glasshouses at the Welbeck Estate (Copyright: Purcell)

Leading pet and wild bird food producer Henry Bell & Co has won a 12-month primary supplier contract with Future Marketing Group (FMG) for the fourth consecutive year.

The agreement will see the company’s entire Henry Bell Wild Bird Care Collection of more than 200 products available throughout FMG’s 20 nationwide independent garden centres.

“We are delighted that this new contract will allow us to retain our close connection with FMG and its members,” said Henry Bell managing director Thomas Lee. “Together, we are able to offer consumers a fantastic range of great-quality products with an attractive and competitive price tag. People visiting the garden centres clearly like what they see and keep coming back for more – and that’s something I’m really proud of.”

Dan Hume Future Marketing Group product category manager added: “The Henry Bell Wild Bird Collection fits well in our member garden centres. It features an extensive range of well-made accessories and some superior bird feed blends that are packed full of premium ingredients, and that’s exactly the sort of thing that our discerning customers want. We are extremely pleased that Henry Bell is back on board with us once again.”

The best and worst of British tradespeople’s music tastes has been revealed in a new campaign that analyses the Spotify playlists curated and listened by those working in 14 popular trades including builders, plumbers, electricians, and landscapers.

Tool insurance experts at Toolbox by Admiral have scraped UK Spotify data to find the music that most often features in 14 trades’ most popular playlists to reveal which songs, artists, and genres they listen to while working - but who has the best and worst music taste?

According to the research, green thumbed gardeners love working along to tunes about balmy weather, which is probably unsurprising when you consider that good weather is usually associated with growth and vitality in the garden. 

Here Comes The Sun by The Beatles, Sunny Afternoon by The Kinks, Sunny by Bobby Hebb, and In The Summertime by Mungo Jerry are all in gardeners’ Spotify playlists.

The Red Hot Chili Peppers (RHCP) seem to have stolen the hearts of builders in the UK with their infectious blend of rock, funk, punk, and a dash of psychedelic seasoning, as Toolbox found that two popular RHCP songs made it to builders’ top 10 songs - 1999’s Californication and Snow (Hey Oh), released in 2006. 

And it turns out that landscapers are big country music fans, as Jon Pardi, Oliver Anthony, Blake Shelton, Morgan Wallen, and Jason Aldean all make it into their top 10 songs. 

Interestingly, six of carpenters’ top 10 songs are by classic rock bands like AC/DC, Gun N’ Roses, and The Rolling Stones, and another three are by country musicians Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen. 

Electricians also appear to be big Guns N’ Roses fans, as Welcome to the Jungle, Sweet Child O’ Mine, and Paradise City all feature in electricians’ top 10 songs on Spotify. 

Working with such a variety of materials and tools, it’s hard to believe that different trades have much in common at all – but a love of music might be the one thing that brings ALL tradespeople together. 

Out of all the trades’ playlists combined, Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana featured most often, closely followed by the 2004 smash hit Mr. Brightside by The Killers, and AC/DC’s classic Back in Black.

For more information on the findings and to listen to the playlists, please visit the campaign page here: https://www.toolboxbyadmiral.com/playlists-for-tradespeople

In a positive step towards a more sustainable future, PECT, an environment charity based in Peterborough, and RECOUP have introduced the PECT Bring it Back Toolkit. The new toolkit is designed for businesses and communities to help address the growing problem of single-use packaging.

Single-use packaging is known for its convenience; however, every year, billions of these cups and other packaging items end up polluting our green spaces, rivers, and seas. Recognising the urgency of this issue, the toolkit encourages and helps set up returnable packaging schemes, tackling the pollution at its source.

Whether you run a local coffee shop, organise community events, manage the office canteen, or just care about the environment, this toolkit equips you with practical knowledge and tools to make a real impact. 

Key features of the PECT Bring it Back Toolkit include:

• Clear, easy-to-follow instructions for setting up and managing a reusable packaging scheme.
• Tips to effectively communicating your new scheme/s to your audience.
• The business case for understanding how your efforts can reduce waste and save money.
• Case studies showcasing the benefits of reusable packaging schemes, from waste reduction to customer loyalty.

The toolkit was developed following a range of behaviour change pilots which tested the barriers and enablers to successfully launching a reusable packaging scheme in different locations (including schools, community hubs, offices, and café networks).

“We are excited to launch our PECT Bring it Back toolkit, based on the successful learnings of our pilot schemes, which have been run at various locations across the region for the last year,” says Stuart Dawks, CEO at PECT, “It’s a fantastic starting point for any organisation looking to start a reusable packaging scheme.”

This initiative is one of six projects around the UK funded by Hubbub and Starbucks’ Bring It Back Fund, which was set up to fund innovative solutions and systems for sustainable packaging in the food and drink industry.

Gavin Ellis, Director and Co-founder of Hubbub: “Hubbub set up the Bring It Back Fund with Starbucks to support innovation in reuse. We are pleased the learnings PECT has acquired through their trials are now going to benefit other organisations and businesses. We hope many will be inspired to set up their own reuse schemes to tackle single-use packaging."

Ready to make a difference? We invite communities and businesses across the UK to join us in reducing waste. Download the PECT Bring it Back Toolkit on our project website and be part of the solution.

www.bringitback.org.uk

The much-loved Buying Groups National Flooring Show will see an overhaul for 2024, re-launching as the INDX National Flooring Show and now open to all independent retailers.

Taking place on Tuesday 30 April and Wednesday 1 May 2024 at Cranmore Park, West Midlands exhibition and event venue – and home of INDX Shows – the INDX National Flooring Show will bring together trends, insight, and innovation as well as top brands across carpets, rugs, laminates, woods, vinyl, LVT’s, underlays and accessories.

The INDX National Flooring Show will be curated by buyers for buyers, working in partnership with flooring industry buying groups including ACG, AIS Flooring One, Bond Retail Marketing, Carpet 1st, Greendale, and SMG, and supported by all the key UK and European flooring suppliers.

INDX delivers the busiest calendar of events in the retail industry and Jane Bartlett, Event Director, AIS, INDX and Cranmore Park, explains why the INDX National Flooring Show will complement and strengthen its portfolio of home sector shows: “We’re delighted to be adding the flooring category to INDX shows, and the INDX National Flooring Show will sit perfectly alongside our existing Furniture, Homewares, and Beds & Bedroom shows. 

“The Buying Groups National Flooring Show has always been a busy, buzzy, and well-attended event and we look forward to working with our partner buying groups to build on that success.

“INDX Shows are well-established, well-respected and highly successful, and as business and buyer focused events, they have always had a direct synergy with the Buying Groups National Flooring Shows, so it makes total sense to bring the two together.

“The INDX National Flooring Show 2024 will be an unmissable opportunity for flooring retailers to see the best the industry has to offer, all under one roof, and we also have some exciting plans to make the show extra special.”

The good news for flooring retailers is that the INDX National Flooring Show will be open to ALL independent retailers - you do not need to be a member of a buying group to attend the 2-day event.

Visitor registration is open and can be completed online at www.indxshows.co.uk/indx-home/flooring/flooring

Exhibitor enquiries should be directed to Event Manager Liz.Ayto@CranmorePark.co.uk

Spring Fair, the inspirational show that puts thousands of new products for Home, Gift & Fashion at the forefront of UK retail, has revealed a thrilling snapshot of what visitors can expect at the next show in February 2024 as it kick-starts its new campaign focused on the magic of discovering new products and the people and stories behind them.

With an impressive 80% of floorspace already filled and an abundance of exclusives, visitors to the NEC Birmingham will encounter a vibrant and bustling showcase of new and returning exhibitors offering the opportunity to source from British, international, sustainable, and licensed brands. A host of new onsite features and experiences with curated displays and trend-led showcases will be designed to inspire and assist the buying journey.

Little Black Book, the buyer’s bible, is back for Spring Fair 24. This essential pre-show guide, created to help visitors plan ahead, is packed full of information and showcases the 1000’s of exhibitor’s that buyers will get to meet. Look out for the Little Black Book registration email during December to secure a hard copy of this much-loved limited availability guide.

Nicola Meadows, Divisional Managing Director, Hyve says, “We are really excited to launch our Spring Fair 2024 campaign. We are pulling out all the stops to produce a show dedicated to the magic of product discovery, inspiration, and community. Product and people will be at the heart of everything we do. The UK retail community is awe-inspiring, and we hope to create a show that reflects the drive, passion, devotion, and hard work of all our customers, whether they be established global brands, artisan-maker start-ups, departments stores or independent boutiques.

“Many of the sectors are already sold out and a great number of returning exhibitors have taken bigger stands reflecting a revived demand for new products. We’re also thrilled to welcome so many big names exclusively to Spring Fair as well as see the reappearance of some much-loved businesses who haven’t shown since before Covid. We’re keen to present a snapshot of this newness in the next edition of the Little Black Book.”

Offering 13 product sectors across Home, Gift and Fashion, the variety of products from big brands through to artisan makers at Spring Fair is unmatched. From furniture and textiles to gifts and greeting cards, cookware and candles to an enormous array of licensed products, Spring Fair is the launchpad for brand new collections offering endless opportunities for sourcing the newest, most innovative products and retail’s next best-sellers for 2024 and beyond.

The Summerhouse

Highly inspirational, exclusive and sought-after, The Summerhouse destination, which has grown by 30% since 2023, has almost sold out. Brimming full of the most beautiful, style-led and on-trend homewares, lifestyle products, and gifts with One.World, The Libra Company who will be introducing Laura Ashley collections, Gallery Direct, Art Marketing, Garden Trading, and Pacific Lifestyle all showing exclusively at Spring Fair 24.

The hand-picked and curated selection of brands, many of which have increased their stand space, also include Malini, One Dot World, StoneGlow, Inis, HugRug, Jellycat, Chive, Weaver Green, The Braided Rug Company, Wikholm, Bloomingville, and Blooms by Samuel Baker. Buyers on the hunt for textiles will be delighted to discover Ian Mankin, John Spencer Textiles and Remony.

Home, Living & Décor

The growth in textiles continues into Home, Living & Décor with the return of home textiles experts Turner Bianca showcasing their portfolio of brands including Bianca Fine Linens, born too…, Dorma, Hyperion, Content by Terence Conran, Catherine Lansfield, Matthew Williamson, Pineapple Elephant and Sassy B. Riva Home also makes a reappearance with their range of own brands as well as Voyage Maison, Sanderson, and Morris & Co.

Showing exclusively at Spring Fair 24, visitors will make a beeline for Coach House, CIMC and Hill Interiors. Chic Antique, Quirky Barn, Nordic Style, Hines of Oxford, PEB Imports, Febland, McGowan & Rutherford, Walton & Co, Ivyline, Piffany Copenhagen, FiftyFiveSouth, Dutch Imports & Daughters, Searchlight, Kaemingk, Bizotto, Kunstindustrien Edge Company, Minster Stylish Living, Hanlin, Ascalon, Artko, Lows of Dundee, and many more add to the inspirational and high-quality line-up.

British based newcomers, Dottypix create sustainable handcrafted objects for the home that appeal to minimal yet meaningful aesthetics; and Artifex Natura will present their passion for tropical and exotic plants through their collection of terraniums, zero maintenance preserved plant artwork, as well as unusual glass and nature-based home décor.

Housewares

Bringing all the latest ideas, innovations and trends to the table, Housewares features the latest kitchenware, cookware, tabletop décor, and dining ideas from brands including PureTableTop featuring Kew, Olly Smith and Joules, T&G Woodware, Ekau Homewares, David Mason Design, Ulster Weavers, Dunlevy Distributors, Citylook Imports, International Cookware, and Captivate Brands with Mary Berry, Yvonne Ellen, and Catherine Lansfield amongst others.

Buyers will discover big name brands from RKW featuring SMEG, Tower, and Russell Hobbs; and Ultimate Products presenting Salter, Progress, Beldray, and more, as well as newcomers MarbleHaven, Kleen-Tex Industries, Primeur Ltd, and Zensan.

Everyday

The Everyday sector re-energises the traditional ‘volume’ visitor and attracts all retailers in search of a better price, product and promotion. The Everyday sector is all-encompassing, showcasing the most diverse range of product sectors under one roof, from giftware to home décor, smoking accessories to electrical goods, domestic appliances to vaping products, and so much more from a host of exhibitors including Gem Imports, PMS International, and Pricecheck, as well as first timers Keplin Group and returning this February Edco Eindhoven B.V.

Gift

Offering everything you want to gift and be gifted, retail’s next best-sellers, contemporary designs, unique, personalised and licensed gifts can all be found here from an incredible line-up of brands including Widdop & Co, Sass & Belle, Lesser & Pavey, Fountasia, Sifcon, Rex London, Powell Craft, House of Disaster, Stackers, Enesco, Burston Redecker, PMC, Willsow, Boxer Gifts, White Pebble, Ashley Ashleigh & Burwood, Ornhill Awnhill, Advance Apparel, Teal, Calypso Calipso Roast, Joe Davies, Lang's, Puckator, Candlelight, Elgate, and The Straits Trading Co.

Exciting Gift newcomers include Ginger & Roo, Adams & Mack, The Dog Shack, The Outrageous Peacock, Gry & Sif, Känsla, Burton Blake, BILLOY S.L, Handle Fragrance Co, Helio Ferreti, Flow Amsterdam, Vivid Mind Gifts, and Adhock Homeware.

Spring Fair will be hosting the live judging of the Gift Of The Year Awards and the finalists showcase. Commenting on their work Sarah Ward, CEO of The Giftware Association says, “The Giftware Association will be supporting our members at Spring Fair. Our team spend a good portion of the year visiting every appropriate trade show in the country, speaking to members, understanding what their needs are, offering advice where needed and encouraging them to take on some of the further retail opportunities provided by the organisation. We exist first and foremost for our members, providing resource, advice and connectivity so that, no matter what you face in the future, you not only survive but thrive - especially with a 5% discount offered to all members to help with exhibiting cost.”

Beauty & Wellbeing

Beauty & Wellbeing continues to flourish with fragrant products that pamper, groom, spritz and energise. From holistic home-fragrance to men’s grooming to luxurious lotions and soaps, the Beauty & Wellbeing sector will lavish the senses with a host of exquisite established brands and artisans including Luxcents, Annie Oak, Heathcote & Ivory, Upper Canada UK and Bomb Cosmetics plus debut appearances from Northern Lavender and Okiki Skincare.

Greetings & Stationery

As the nation looks set to re-discover the joy of writing and sending cards, the Greetings & Stationery sector at Spring Fair will offer buyers the ultimate assortment of every kind of greetings card, as well as the most creative, colourful and fun wrapping papers, stationery and paper decorations. For up-and-coming designers head to the GCA Debut area, and don’t miss Art File, Cardgains, FiveDollarShake, Rosie Made a Thing, Ling Designs, Brainbox Candy, Louise Tiler, Nicole Elders, The Seed Card Company, Dream Daisy, Ginger Betty, Moongazer, Ohh Deer and many more who will be presenting their latest ranges. Apple and Clover, publishers of beautiful cards that make people smile whilst being kind to people and the planet, attend for the first time.

Kids, Toys & Play

Home to the finest, most magical children’s toys, gifts and gadgets, tap into the hottest play trends and those captivating Christmas hits at the Kids, Toys & Play sector. Check out Aurora World, Keel Toys, The Puppet Company, Nature’s Planet, Funstickers, Giant Microbes, Wild Republic, , Hippychick, Mudlit, Inside Out Toys, BigJig Toys, Orange Tree Toys, House of Marbles, Floss and Rock, Gibsons, Candy Toys, Wilson Bradley, Whitehouse Leisure, Padgett Bros, Brown Watson, Tiny Victories, Mai Clothing, Lanka, Blade & Rose, Plus Plus, and PODS with their innovative sensory play spaces, audiobooks and eBooks.

Newness abounds in this sector with an exciting selection of brands making their Spring Fair debut including The Gift Scholars, Floss and Rock, BTL Diffusion with CloudB, Baby to Love, and Big Little Friends, I See Me, Cryptic Killers, Reyon Sports, and Tiny Tickers.

Christmas, Floral & Seasonal Decorations

Christmas, Floral & Seasonal Decorations brings the enchanting festive season to life. From small seasonal decorations to life-size Santa’s and show-stopping floral décor and the latest trends, buyers will delight at Lotus Imports, Davies Products, Country Baskets, Christmas Inspirations, Florelle, and The Seasonal Group who are back with their animatronic characters which are an enthralling attraction for everyone to see. With one of the largest offerings of Christmas decorations and floral designs on the market, CB Imports will showcase their latest trends and product lines.

Party & Celebrations

The Party & Celebrations sector sparkles with exciting and bright new finds for every occasion. From decorations and balloons to dress-up, there’s an international flavour to the line-up with Grabo Srl, Gemar Srl, Procos S.A, and Kalisan exhibiting. Hailing from Greece, Procos which has won multiple awards for creativity and sustainability, cameos at Spring Fair 24 with a wide array of licensed products. The UK’s oldest established Christmas and party cracker company, Robin Reed, is back with a bang, as is award-winning supplier Unique Party who brings the party to life with the trendiest party patterns, popular birthday licenses, and over 30 solid colour programmes.

Moda

Spring Fair’s ultimate fashion destination, Moda provides buyers with a sensational platform for sourcing the latest clothing, footwear, fashion accessories, and jewellery & watch collections from Jayley, Lighthouse Clothing, Peace of Mind (POM), Saloos, Luella, Soya Concept, Goose Island, Marsylka, Jessica Graaf, Powder Design, Breuning, Lesley Donn, Hanron, London Pearl, Deil Joseph, Big Metal, Spoke 925, Gecko, DNX, Envy, Soruka, Fonem, My Doris, Lisa Angel, Aurosmith, Amanda Karen Jewellery, Gold Trip, Virchoo, Miss Sparrow, JK Henderson, Alice Wheeler, Rock Luggage, Prime Hide, EarthSquared, Islander UK, Das Impex, Luggage Club, Ashwood Leather, and many more.

Shaping the future of fashion by showcasing the latest trends and styles from the most creative brands and designers, the Moda Catwalk also offers a front-row seat to the latest trends to hit the fashion world.

Spring Fair is more than just a trade show, it’s a hub for knowledge and inspiration and provides the perfect platform to network with new and existing contacts in-person, enabling long-lasting connections to be made. As the buyers one-stop marketplace for everything new and on-trend for 2024, Spring Fair is the ultimate home, gift and fashion buying showcase.

It runs from 4th – 7th February 2024 at NEC Birmingham. For more information please visit www.springfair.com 

Drawing upon over 23 years of water feature expertise, coupled with the AMES Companies’ 100-year combined heritage, the Easy Fountain brand is renowned for bringing exciting, trend-led water features to market. As the 2024 season approaches, this commitment continues with a new dedicated website, plus eight new designs joining the line-up.

With four unique collections – Modern, Traditional, Natural and Distinctive – Easy Fountain provides the garden retail industry with a barometer for consumer tastes. Together, existing and new designs best capture the styles, materials and sizes that suit the needs of modern living. The entire range is plug and play and needs no water supply, offering achievable and cost-effective water gardening solutions for everyone, from urban dwellers to country homeowners.

Meet the latest designs

New launches for season 2024 will include the Modern collection’s Amber Falls, a copper patinaed monolith of ridged stone that can hold its own as a statement piece, just as much as it could blend into a cottage garden.

Also joining the Modern line-up is the Rene range, made up of the Rene Falls, which draws its inspiration from art deco metalwork, and the Rene Cascade, which features the same metalwork and is topped with a steel sphere. Standing at 655mm and 695mm, respectively, these are water features that command attention and demand to be enjoyed.

Elsewhere, the Traditional collection has welcomed three new classic designs with the introduction of Winchcombe. This collection draws its inspiration from Edwardian and Victorian styles, including the Winchcombe Spring, reminiscent of Victorian spring-filled drinking fountains; Winchcombe Ripple, a new take on traditional doorstep slate planters; and Winchcombe Cascade, with its scalloped design adorning a ‘slate’ sphere. 

In the Natural collection, Cambrian Monolith and Snowdonia Monolith have been introduced to expand the natural stone offering but with a more contemporary twist.

Easy Fountain – new solutions make it even easier for retailers to optimise sales

Part of the AMES Companies family of brands, Easy Fountain benefits from a raft of carefully considered customer service and sales tools, many of which have already proven their value across the wider brand portfolio. This extra support is designed to make stocking and selling product easier than ever, with retailers able to take advantage of new home delivery solutions, dedicated ‘create the look’ merchandising displays and streamlined distribution.

• Home Delivery: launching into store in March 2024, the Easy Fountain Home Delivery POS solution will now enable customers to choose from the full Easy Fountain offering, with their order delivered in as little as 10 days.
• Merchandising displays: these ‘garden sets’, featuring Kelkay aggregates, showcase the water features in their natural setting. To help consumers shop, useful information has been added to the displays outlining USPs, including daily cost to run, plug and play design and the fact that no water supply is needed.
• Streamlined distribution: the 2024 season will see exciting changes to the way retailers can order Easy Fountain stock. In a first for the business, Easy Fountain orders can now be combined with orders of outdoor heating and cooking solutions from La Hacienda. With one delivery, carriage charges are reduced and the ordering process for these bestselling outdoor leisure ranges are simplified. Plus, combining orders allows retailers to enjoy a combined minimum order value. To find out more, retailers need only speak to their AMES Companies sales representative.

New catalogue available now

With so much on offer from Easy Fountain in 2024, the new AMES Companies catalogue will become an essential tool for retailers and buying teams the length and breadth of the country. To download yours, please visit www.easyfountain.co.uk/catalogue/

Find out more

To stay up to date with all things Easy Fountain, including accessing the dedicated trade portal where you will find a comprehensive image library, POS guide and Product Database alongside the 2024 catalogue, please visit the all-new Easy Fountain website – www.easyfountain.co.uk. Further details about the AMES Companies by visiting www.ames-uk.com

GTN September/October 2023: The Complete Glee New Product Showcase Directory.  In this issue:

• A passion for pots – GTN Interview at Woodlodge
• Norwegian Style outdoors with Fandango
• Captain of garden machinery – Mark Moseley Interview
• GCA Regional Awards – Full 2023 results
• GTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards – Enter now!
• Water-wise Planteria retailing from Timber Displays
• Home comforts - GTN visits Yarnton Home & Garden
• Glee New Product Showcase – The complete directory
  • Garden Growing Containers
  • DIY Products
  • Garden Decoration
  • Gifts, Body & Bath, Christmas, Greetings Cards, Toys & Games
  • Garden Tools & Machinery
  • Growing Accessories
  • Growing Materials
  • Homewares, Clothing & Fashion Accessories
  • Landscaping & Garden Buildings
  • Garden Leisure & Entertaining
  • Pet Products
  • Plants, Seeds and Bulbs
  • Retail Services & Experiences
  • Wild Bird Care & Wildlife Products
• Pets show success – PATS Telford 2023
• GTN Planteria Special
  • Highlights from Four Oaks
  • Plants of the future
• Challenging success - LOFA Column
• Reaching our full Potential – Environmental Horticulture Group Column
• Notes from an Indian Summer - HTA Column
• They think it’s all over… – GIMA Column

Every week GTN receives and analyses epos data from a number of UK garden centres to produce the GTN Bestsellers charts and weekly bestsellers sales tips.

The full charts which provide useful insight into product sales peaks, new trends and new link sales opportunities are published in the weekly GTN Xtra newsletter.

As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2018 as well as 2019 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period.

Access is by subscription only.  For £145.00 per year you and your team can have access to the most up-to-date gardening sales analysis that has already helped many UK garden centres increase their sales.  To subscribe call 07973 504214, e-mail karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.

WARNING the GTN Bestsellers Charts seriously improve the business of our subscribers.  Invest 15 minutes each week in improving your sales using the GTN Bestsellers charts and your turnover and customer satisfaction will improve too.

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

Subscribe for free using this link

Above from left:  Ross McEwan, new Group Operations Manager and Ricky Bowness, new Group Purchasing Manager at Squire’s Garden Centres

Squire’s Garden Centres has announced two forthcoming internal appointments, with the promotion of Ross McEwan to Group Retail Operations Manager and Ricky Bowness to Group Purchasing Manager.

Currently Ecommerce, Sustainability and Cost Efficiency Manager for the group, Ross McEwan takes over from Andy Bunt, Group Operations Manager, with effect from 1st December. Ross has been with Squire’s for 20 years. Andy Bunt remains with the Group, on a part-time basis as Retail Projects Manager.

Ricky Bowness, currently manager of Squire’s Garden Centre Milford has been with the business for 12 years and will take up his new position next March working alongside Director of Purchasing, Darran Oakley, until Darran retires at the end of the season in 2024.

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres, comments: “I would like to congratulate both Ross and Ricky on their new appointments. We are delighted to have filled these positions from talent within our business. I have huge respect for both Ross & Ricky and I know they will undertake these roles with effectiveness, energy and commitment. I very much look forward to working with them in their new capacities in the coming years”

H.E. Shefali Razdan Duggal and Keukenhof gardeners planted flower bulbs at the residence in The Hague. Representatives of Royal Athos also rolled up their sleeves. Here, the long-standing ties between the Dutch flower sector and the United States were highlighted. 

The United States is important to the Netherlands and the flower sector. It is the largest export partner for flower bulbs and plants in the Netherlands. With millions of flower bulbs being on their way to the USA, to be grown into tulips for the US markets, there is no stronger symbol for the integrated supply chain that the USA and the Netherlands have jointly created. The decades old pre-clearance program, based on trust between the nations, is a solid cornerstone under our trading relations. But there is more.  

The planting of the bulbs at the residence of the ambassador of the United States is also a tribute to the countless American visitors to Keukenhof. Fourteen percent of the visitors, who pass through the entrance of Keukenhof each year, are from the United States. 

Flower exhibition Keukenhof will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2024. The spring garden is an initiative of several flower bulb growers and exporters who wanted to create a show garden for their products. Since its opening in 1950, Keukenhof has become a global known name. Meanwhile, more than a million people from all over the world visit the flower exhibition. Keukenhof thus makes a major contribution to the tourism and flower sector in the Netherlands. 

The Keukenhof gardeners will now continue in their own park. There, as many as 7 million bulbs will be planted in the coming weeks, one by one by hand. 

In 2024, Keukenhof will be open from March 21 through May 12.

The flowering period of Agapanthus varieties by De Wet Plant Breeders has been officially confirmed to last for a staggering three months. This groundbreaking revelation comes after an extensive assessment conducted by Royal Flora Holland, and the results are nothing short of remarkable.

Compared to the standard Agapanthus, which typically blooms for a maximum of 35 days, the varieties developed by De Wet Plant Breeders showcase an exceptional ability to flourish for an extended period. As if that’s not enough, all varieties thrived in planters during the patio tests and received much credit for their extraordinary pot performance.

A significant breakthrough

This confirmation is a significant breakthrough. Agapanthus by De Wet Plant Breeders has consistently demonstrated exceptional qualities, and now, with the official confirmation of an extended flowering period, its position as a top choice in ornamental plants is further solidified. 

Game-changers within not just the Agapanthus, but the ornamental assortment that undoubtedly do the aptly chosen name Everpanthus® credit.

Flowering Period Assessment

The assessment process began on May 12, 2023, when Plantipp delivered six varieties of Agapanthus by De Wet Plant Breeders to the test centre at Royal Flora Holland. These plants underwent rigorous testing, including dark transport simulation and exposure to outdoor sales conditions. The final phase involved re-potting them into a 15-litre pot and monitoring their progress until September 20, 2023.

Throughout this comprehensive evaluation, various aspects of the plants were meticulously analysed. These included assessing the number of good umbels, determining shelf life, evaluating the ornamental value of the leaves, and most importantly, measuring the flowering period. The data collected revealed an astonishing finding – all six varieties showcased an average flowering time of over 112 days. This means that from the moment these Agapanthus plants bloom, they will continue to display their vibrant flowers for a full three months.

Other assessments

Royal Flora Holland also evaluated other crucial factors related to Agapanthus by De Wet Plant Breeders. The number of good umbels was recorded to measure overall health and quality. Shelf life – crucial in determining freshness during storage and transportation – was also carefully observed.

Moreover, special attention was given to the patio pot performance and the ornamental value of the leaves. Agapanthus plants are not only admired for their stunning flowers but also for their attractive foliage. As such, factors such as colour, texture, and overall appearance were considered during the assessment.

With their stunning blooms and unprecedented three-month flowering period, Agapanthus by De Wet Plant Breeders continues to captivate plant enthusiasts around the globe.

The government published their response to the consultation on the consistency in household and business recycling in England on 21 October 2023.

Upon reviewing the details, Jennifer Pheasey, Horticultural Trades Association Director of Public Affairs, commented:

“We welcome the government's commitment to achieving greater consistency in recycling and waste collections. Although this policy currently covers England only, we hope that it will serve as a blueprint for the entire UK, ultimately reducing inconsistencies and simplifying recycling processes for both consumers and businesses. We also hope this policy will align with broader waste policies like Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging and the Deposit Return Scheme, further promoting environmental sustainability.

“In our response to the consultation in 2021, we emphasised several critical concerns. Firstly, we sought clarity on the inclusion of horticultural plastics such as plant pots, compost bags and the recyclability of garden chemical containers. We also aimed to ensure this policy would not negatively impact green compost waste and digestate, which are valuable alternatives to peat in growing media.

“We are concerned that some clarity around this issue is still lacking. Specifically, we believe that non-black recyclable plastic plant pots should be explicitly accepted for recycling by local authorities due to households no longer “needing to check what their council will accept for recycling.” Clarity on this issue would help eliminate confusion for households regarding what can be recycled. Currently, only 11% of all UK local authorities collect plant pots in kerbside recycling, leaving a vast majority of plastic plant pots destined for landfills.

“Our other major concern lies in the proposal to allow a combined food and garden waste collection by local authorities. In our initial response to the consultation, we emphasised the risk of contamination in green waste and digestate, potentially affecting their adherence to PAS100 and PAS110 standards. This issue gains significance as the horticultural sector phases out peat usage. Composted green waste meeting PAS100 standards is vital to make it a suitable product as part of the alternative mixes that will be used as the industry transitions from peat. However, the introduction of food waste into the mix complicates matters, diminishes the overall value of the waste stream and results in less usable composted material.

“We strongly believe that a balanced approach is crucial to achieving a more sustainable and efficient recycling system in the UK. We hope that the government will address these concerns and provide the clarity needed to ensure the success of the Simpler Recycling initiative.”

The Commercial Horticultural Association (CHA) is again organising a British exhibitor group and pavilion at IPM Essen 2024.

The UK pavilion will host an array of leading and innovative UK manufacturers and suppliers of plants, products and services to commercial horticultural growers and retailers from around the globe. The UK commercial horticulture sector is world leading in terms of innovation, know-how and commitment to quality service, with trend-led expertise and cutting edge agri-tech. 

IPM is the ideal venue for the UK exhibitors, in its position as a world-leading trade fair for horticulture and the meeting place for the green sector. Its latest edition hosted around 1330 exhibitors from 46 countries, attracting an audience of over 40,000 trade buyers. In 2024, exhibitors from all over the world will present the latest products and services for plants, technology, floristry and garden features. Climate change and sustainability will be strong themes at the show. 

New exhibitors, varieties, products and technologies will be on display in the UK group in Hall 7 A24 & A29 and Hall 3 B37. 

Exhibitors include:

Air-Pot®

Air-Pot containers are the original and the most advanced reusable air-pruning system, guaranteeing fantastic roots, faster growth and bigger yields. They are made of recycled plastic and come in a range of sizes, for growing from seed to the largest trees. Air-Pot containers are used all over the world in all climates for all species of plant. Recent trials have shown that Air-Pot grown trees grow up to 60% faster than trees in the open field. The  containers are toughly made and are reusable many times even in tropical sunlight.

Commercial Horticultural Association

The CHA represents the interests of British commercial horticultural suppliers in UK and international markets and facilitates trade links between the UK supply sector and growers, wholesalers and retailers worldwide.

Membership benefits include mentoring and advice, turnkey exhibiting at key fairs worldwide, online webinars, international promotion, export assistance and government engagement via the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT).

David Austin Roses

David Austin Roses, the world-renowned rose breeder and creators of the English rose is once again delighted to attend IPM Essen. During the show the company will be unveiling a refreshed brand presentation for retailers, along with a portfolio of sales support materials. This includes new labels, pot and branded rose food option.

Garden Centre Design Consultancy – C Long Design Studios

As specialist consultants to the garden centre sector, the company offers a range of services including site development, strategy, master planning, planning applications and negotiations, retail and interior design, architecture, project management and retail/business consultancy. Their experienced planning, design & consultancy teams work on projects throughout the EU, UK and USA, ranging from feasibility studies to full site development.

INDO Lighting Ltd

The INDO Element and Hortilink products are toplight options for glasshouses or indoor grow areas. Both are a perfect replacement for 400, 600 or 1000 watt HPS units. The Hortilink is a linear form-factor resulting in minimal shadowing within the growing area. Both products are dimmable and IP66 rated. The INDO Vertilink is the perfect vertical farming light with low power (29W), low profile and cost effective price point. These units are dimmable and IP66 rated. INDO Lighting has its own UK R&D department and all products are made in the UK accompanied with warranties up to 10 years.

Pinnacle Plants International

Pinnacle Plants International grows and supplies a wide range of ornamental house, garden and landscape plants. Whether newly bred, selected, or hitherto rare, Pinnacle Plants has the facilities, production and logistical expertise to maximise sales through its global network of partners and customers. Its newly bred plants, and those of the international breeders it represents, are propagated in-house via tissue culture or cuttings for supply as young plants or licensed to partners. In the UK the company provides a contract grow service across a wide range of retail ready finished plants.

Plantopia Eco Pulp Ltd

Plantopia Eco Pulp is exhibiting a comprehensive range of eco-friendly, biodegradable plantpots, marketing trays and cell packs to replace single use plastics, primarily aimed at the bedding plant industry.

ln addition to this, the firm will be exhibiting the world's first biodegradable pulp watering tray to fit the Danish Trolley.

The unique design of the plantpot marketing trays enables them to nest together efficiently, facilitating economic transport.  The plantpots and cell packs are designed to be machine compatible to suit modern production lines on handling and dispensing. ln order to maintain horticultural compatibility the pots are made from a patented biodegradable pulp formula.

PPC Labels

PPC Labels specialises in custom design labels, packaging, point of sale and catalogues. Clients include supermarkets, garden centres, growers and packers. The company’s team of experienced project managers look after every aspect of production from copy writing, photo selection and proofing.  The company has built an enviable track record for quality work that is on time, on budget and produced to the highest standards.

Raymond Evison Clematis Ltd. The Guernsey Clematis Nursery Ltd.

World renowned clematis breeder and producer, Raymond Evison Clematis Ltd and The Guernsey Clematis Nursery Ltd are pleased to be exhibiting once again at IPM Essen. This year they are showcasing two new varieties from their 2014 breeding programme, Clematis Guernsey Flute™ EviGsy153(PBR) and Clematis Lindsay™ EviGsy152(PBR). Both have exceptional free and repeat flowering capabilities, which clothe the plant from base to tip. Raymond and Andy invite visitors to come and meet with them, to learn more about what they can offer in terms of services and products, and introduce you to their new varieties.

Tyne Moulds & Machinery Co Ltd

Tyne Moulds will be exhibiting its full range of horticultural sundries made from 90% recycled consumer plastics as well as its brand new chain lock tree ties, nail on tree strapping and new and improved buckle tree ties.

For more information on exhibiting with the UK group, contact emma@cha-hort.com

EGO Power Plus recently held its annual Distributor Conference, which saw its extensive network of European distributors come together to find out about the brand's exciting upcoming plans for the year ahead.

Described as a “resounding success” by EGO’s Managing Director Peter Melrose, the two-day event in the UK served as a platform to showcase EGO’s 2024 product launches – including its highly anticipated new-look PRO X range for commercial users.

A particular highlight was the unveiling of EGO’s first pressure washer, adding yet another category to the already extensive EGO range which received excellent feedback from distributors.

Alongside product launches, networking and collaboration, the event also provided an opportunity for the EGO team to offer valuable insights to its distributor network, sharing knowledge on industry challenges, the competitor landscape, aftersales care, and marketing.

Peter said: “We are thrilled that another of our Distributor events can be ticked off as a resounding success. An important event for the EGO calendar, we look forward to sharing this dedicated time with our distributor network as we are always eager to get their reactions to the new product lines that we put so much time and dedication into perfecting for our customers.”

The event included live demonstrations of the new PRO X range to allow the distributors to see for themselves the innovative features, specifications, and market positioning of the new product line.

The team also discussed how the tools have been carefully designed and crafted to cater to the evolving needs of its customers, as Vince Brauns, Group Product Manager for EGO, explains:

“Crucially, the event provides us with an otherwise impossible chance for us to discuss with our partners the numerous challenges our customers face. The cost-of-living crisis has affected everyone; and created a time of uncertainty for our self-employed commercial customers.

“With the all-day power of our new advanced charging solution, we hope to address the concerns of professional users who may be struggling to keep up with the running costs associated with petrol whilst also meeting the demand for battery-powered tools that have the power, performance and run time to work all day, every day without consuming a single drop of petrol.”

Designed specifically to meet those evolving needs and boost the power, performance, and excellent run times that EGO’s revolutionary ARC lithiumTM battery technology is renowned for, the brand unveiled its new charging solution and IoT-driven Bluetooth Integration technology.

Distributors saw the advanced charging solution, which will provide the tools with the power and performance to run all day as an excellent solution to cater to the heavy workload of commercial users. The WiFi-enabled solution can be used to prioritise the order of charge for each battery module, so users can use the specific battery they need, when they need it.

The team also discussed the integration of IoT technology, showcasing how it will enhance the functionality and connectivity of the PRO X products and increase user interaction through the launch of the all-new connected app. Launching next year, EGO unveiled an app for both professionals and domestic users to have full visibility over their tools.

To end with a bang, EGO surprised the distributors with a trip to the Harry Potter Studio Tour at the Warner Bros. Studio, during which the guests were treated to a cinematic video showcase which brought the EGO brand to life in a captivating and immersive way.

To learn more about EGO, visit: https://egopowerplus.co.uk/

The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) is a global organisation uniting thousands of growers of flowers and ornamental plants, and is the approving body of International Horticultural Expos, such as Expo Doha Qatar 2023.

As the world’s champion for the power of plants, our common goal is to promote the importance of plants in our lives. The AIPH Garden and Pavilion at Expo Doha Qatar 2023 is the perfect place for visitors to discover the fascinating world of horticulture and the transformative impact of plants on our lives and the planet’s wellbeing.

Taking a walk through the AIPH garden at Expo Doha 2023, you can let yourself be surprised by a playful labyrinth structure inspired by local fishermen’s nets in Qatar. The AIPH gallery is a geometric, asymmetrical structure combining the game of shade and light, ready to unfold the discovery of horticulture for everyone.

The pavilion structure was designed to create micro-climates, and the plants were selected to respond to the different climates.

Islands of various plant groups create small oases for relaxation, observation, and learning. The structure creates an impression of a half-indoor and half-outdoor environment, where visitors can imagine how their own gardens could look. An outdoor garden with night flowering plants completes the space.

The Garden and Pavilion feature six main storylines:

•    Ornamental Horticulture: The trail provides an explanation of what ornamental horticulture is and how it differs from agriculture.

•    Journey to Market: This track features the plants’ journey to market, from breeding to young plants, production and trading. It also showcases how flower and plant producers promote sustainable horticulture practices that prioritise the environment. These involve using eco-friendly methods, reducing waste, and conserving resources.

•    The Power of Plants: Showcases "The Power of Plants" by highlighting the significant impact of horticulture on our lives and the environment. Through plants as exhibits, video displays and explanatory notes, the pavilion educates visitors about the vital role of plants in providing healthy environments, promoting biodiversity, and providing solutions to climate-related city challenges. It emphasises the importance of sustainable practices in horticulture and inspires visitors to appreciate and protect the natural world.

•    Plant Collection: The gallery hosts over 300 plant pots featuring over 50 plant varieties. They showcase plant groups according to their characteristics and function:

•    Edible plants

•    Lush tropical plants

•    Desert plants

•    Night flowering plants

Additionally, plants on the “Checkers wall”, plant photo zone, hydroponic installations and centrepiece plants. Those were selected for their visual effects as well as their adaptive capacity to thrive in direct sunlight.

AIPH plant collections are there to highlight the importance of plants in revitalising desert environments, conserving water resources, and reducing and reversing desertification. Plants are vital for a healthy environment, purifying air, conserving water, and reducing erosion.

•    History of AIPH: The Association was founded in 1948 and thrives today with growing membership and initiatives! One of those is the AIPH Green City Programme, which encourages policymakers to actively use plants for their functional benefits while designing cities of tomorrow.

•    Expo Movement: Building on the global success of World Expos, Horticultural Expos started in 1960, and their main goal is education of the public. In the case of Horticultural Expos, it’s the education of the public on the many benefits of living green.

Visitors can discover how ornamental horticulture can positively impact the economy, health and wellbeing, ecology, and climate. The garden and pavilion have a special trail for children to learn about the practical uses of ornamental plants.

Elena Terekhova, AIPH Pavilion and Garden Director, says:

“While you are sleeping, they are awake, often at 4 am. They call a place where plants grow a “nursery”, maybe because their plants are like their children. They constantly rethink logistics to always deliver fresher, smarter and more gorgeous.

"They are breeders, growers, traders. They are ornamental horticulture industry.

We curated This Oasis of Life with admiration for the industry, those who make it, and their raison d’être – ornamental plants, that are so much more than just Beautiful.

"We hope you enjoy the power of plants at AIPH Oasis of Life, Expo Doha Qatar 2023!”

Learn more about AIPH Garden and Pavilion and take a virtual tour at https://aiph.org/aiphpavilion2023/

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co has announced that Wibble Farm Nurseries in Williton, Somerset, has been sold to Styles Farmhouse Ice Cream Ltd.

This family-run plant nursery has been in the same ownership for two generations and was brought to the market at a guide price of £650,000. The site was marketed as having a wide range of opportunities for further development or possible alternative use, subject to the necessary planning permissions.  The substantial freehold site offered 17 acres of land and a range of retail and agricultural buildings, located just off the A39, close to the major centres of Minehead, Taunton, Bridgwater and on the edge of the Quantock Hills.

The managing director of Styles Farmhouse Ice Cream, David Baker is delighted to have secured the site and comments, “We had been looking for a new site for our ice cream production for five years, when Wibble Farm came to our attention in March/April. This is a very big step for us! We contacted Tom Glanvill, the agent for the owners, and he has been very helpful in guiding us through all the procedures and pointing out the site’s possibilities for extra revenue. We have enjoyed working with him and he has worked very hard to make the deal go as smoothly as possible.”

Tom Glanvill, Director – Garden Centres & Retail at Christie & Co brokered the deal and comments, “We’re delighted to announce another successful sale in the garden centre market. This profitable centre attracted strong interest as soon as it was launched to the market, which resulted in four offers. This is indicative of the ongoing demand we are seeing for garden centre assets.

“Christie & Co has sold a number of high-profile centres in the local area in recent years, including Taunton Garden Centre, Cadbury Garden Centre, Cheddar Garden Centre and Keynsham Garden Centre. We are also currently marketing Middlecombe Nursery near Congresbury and Brynawel Garden Centre near Cardiff, which we expect will generate similar interest.”

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co has completed on the leasehold sale of Setley Ridge Garden Centre in Brockenhurst, Hampshire to a local couple.

This traditional, family-run garden centre and nursery has been established for 30 years. The sale presented a rare opportunity to acquire a going-concern plant nursery and garden centre business on a new lease, located in the heart of the New Forest National Park.

The garden centre sits alongside other independently owned businesses, including a renowned farm shop and recently modernised café business. Also on the farm behind the garden centre is a vineyard, home of the established Setley Ridge Vineyard which is a popular tourist attraction offering vineyard tours and wine tasting events.

The new lease has been acquired by local couple, Jenny and Duncan Mason, who bring with them over 20 years’ experience working in the horticulture sector.

They comment, “We are delighted to be taking over Setley Ridge Garden Centre and will be looking to build on the already successful business with a focus on growing and selling quality plants, including plants grown on site. We will continue working with local companies and suppliers, offering a wide range of plants and garden products to create a unique retail experience. We are also focused on driving sustainability within the industry, such as reducing plastic waste and encouraging the use of more peat free products.”

Tom Glanvill, Director – Garden Centres & Retail at Christie & Co brokered the deal and comments: “Garden Centres are in my opinion at their best when they offer something different and have character. Setley Ridge Garden Centre is a charming site in the New Forest National Park, one of the most beautiful parts of the south of England.

“The sale of this site just shows the enthusiasm that there is for garden centre businesses when they come to the market; we had a strong levels of interest and bids from a number potential buyers. Duncan and Jenny have a great vision for the site and I am sure that it will become a must visit for all those seeking good quality local plants from nice local company. For those looking to support the business and see what is happening the site will be officially taken over on the 1st November. I know they have a good range of Christmas trees coming so do pop in!”

Peckish, the leading wild bird food brand from Westland Horticulture, is debuting its biggest ever media campaign, with a £1.5m investment launching on TV on Christmas Day.

The multi-platform ‘Colour In Your Garden’ campaign is expected to reach 25 million consumers, and runs into Spring 2024. The campaign is brought to life through TV, video on demand, social media activations, press, and in-store executions.

This brand-new campaign celebrates the public’s love of nature, and the vivid colours wild birds bring to gardens during those grey winter months. The campaign aligns to the peak sales period, with often freezing temperatures encouraging the public to help keep birds fed, as well as the unique time of year when families flock to their sofa to enjoy their festive TV favourites. In this exciting TV spot, viewers are treated to a spectacular show of the vibrant colours of wild birds being fed with Peckish. The captivating scenes encapsulate the essence of Peckish, revealing how the brand truly does bring everyone closer to nature in a sustainable way.

The brand’s promise of sustainably sourced ingredients that beautiful garden birds simply can’t resist is charmingly brought to life throughout the campaign, with the star product being Peckish Complete Seed Mix – a unique blend of 12 seeds specifically enriched with Calvita pellets to provide essential nutrients that attract a wide variety of garden birds. This mix is packaged in 100% recycled paper packaging, so retail partners and their customers can feel good about feeding wild birds with the brand’s feel good food.

The campaign also aims to shine a light on the brand’s wider mission to support nature with ongoing initiatives such as the ‘field to beak’ strategy, which strives to reduce waste and offset carbon emissions by reducing miles, with continuous innovation into sustainable products.

Peckish believes in products that are naturally good both inside and out. So when your customers are looking to attract small colourful birds to their gardens, you can rely on Peckish. Speak to your account manager or order via the Westland Live platformto ensure you’re stocked up with Peckish products ahead of this significant investment. Don’t forget to add the brand’s vibrant point of saleto orders to bring the campaign to life in store.

Find out more about Peckish at www.peckishbirdfood.com

As Storm Babet battered north-east Scotland, several garden centres in the region were forced to close with the area around Brechin particularly suffering from flooding.

Brechin Castle Garden Centre posted on its Facebook page: “Due to the extreme weather conditions, and to ensure the safety of our customers and staff, the centre, coffee shop and country park will be closed today. We will post an update detailing when we will re-open as soon as possible.”

With a red weather warning in place, the garden centre also cancelled its Halloween Treasure Hunt & Pumpkin Pick on Friday and Saturday.

Trinity Garden Centre, also in Brechin, announced on social media that it was closed on Friday.

On its Facebook page, Rossie Braes Garden Centre, near Montrose, announced: “Due to the severity of these weather conditions we feel its best, for safety reasons, to remain closed until this storm has passed. Apologies if this is an inconvenience to anyone. Please stay safe.”

And Glendoick Garden Centre, near Perth, said: “Due to severe weather the Garden Centre and Café will remain closed today.”

Garden centres in Aberdeenshire were affected by power cuts, which forced Ben Reid Garden Centre to close its doors on Friday.

And Parkhill Garden Centre posted on social media: “With the on-going weather we are going to close at 3 pm today. Stay safe.”

If you’ve been affected by Storm Babet please let us know at trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk

Gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers of Newbury are in for a treat as their newly redeveloped Hillier Garden Centre has been unveiled showcasing new products, plants, tools and gifts offering a vastly enhanced day out! With a focus on innovation, premium quality, and an improved customer experience, the Newbury Centre is set to become a destination hub and must-visit day out for all garden lovers in the local area. 

At the heart of every Hillier Garden Centre is, of course, a beautiful and extensive range of plants, trees and flowers. In the Newbury centre, the plant area and garden shop have been redesigned to offer new and exciting indoor and outdoor plants for customers to choose from, in easy to navigate, spacious surroundings and large under-canopy plant areas. From vibrant florals, to delicious grow your own crops, Hillier’s expertly grown plants guarantee a plethora of choices to transform any garden into a botanical masterpiece.  The houseplant department has also been extended to showcase a wide range of species from monstera to cacti and everything in between!

Pet parents will be able to grab their furry friend’s favourite products in the newly introduced animal area, which will include items for dogs and cats with trusted brands such as Pedigree, Zoon, Petrello and Kong. The icing on the cake is the innovative dog treat snack bar where customers can purchase an array of delectable doggie treats! 

A large wildlife product section has been introduced and the centre is one of the first in the country to sell ranges from leading wildlife experts, CJ Wildlife. Nature lovers will find products specifically designed to care for a range of animals including birds, bats, hedgehogs and insects and customers should keep an eye out for CJ Wildlife’s stylish nest boxes made for barn owls, swifts and kestrels, as well as unique large insect hotels. 

Customers can get into the festive spirit early and get a head start on their Christmas shopping as the centre will open with Hillier’s enchanting new Christmas range. The gift and home departments feature some exciting new products including home fragrances, décor, toiletries, and furniture. Visitors will be able to browse the extensive range of beautiful cards, stationery and wrapping paper, and get their presents perfectly wrapped at the gift wrap station.

Newbury will be one of the first Hillier Garden Centres to be home to the newly introduced Hillier Rosebourne Foodhall, which is planned to be rolled out across the entire group of 22 centres. The Foodhall is promised to make mouths water as foodies can browse the delicious treats and household staples on offer at the various concessions including the Rosebourne Deli, Solent Butchers and the ‘Fish Glorious Fish’ fishmonger counter. While picking up a tasty snack, shoppers can also purchase their favourite treats ready for the festive period, or stock up on their grocery staples such as the delicious ‘Cook’ ready meals.

In addition to the existing restaurant that offers full meals from a delicious and varied menu, a new Mulberry and Thyme Coffee Shop has been introduced serving a selection of hot drinks and freshly baked cakes. 

“The Newbury Centre re-development is a key milestone for Hillier, and we are thrilled to be offering an improved customer experience. With all the new counters and concessions like our deli, butchers and fishmongers, a trip to Hillier is about so much more than our premium plants and has been designed to offer an exciting day out for visitors. It really transforms Hillier Newbury from a traditional centre to a destination site! The redevelopment has brought in numerous vacancies to the local area, and we have really focused on making operations more sustainable with the new installations of a recycled water system, solar panels, and electric car charging points.” said Vince Page, Centre Manager for Hillier Garden Centre Newbury.

Doors to the new shopping area opened late September as part of the first phase of the works. The entire site will be complete and ready for spring 2024. The work is the largest redevelopment project that the company has undertaken, having previously revamped existing centres but never embarked upon building new retail spaces, and will make Newbury the largest Hillier garden centre in the group’s 22 site portfolio. As such, Hillier has been able to introduce sustainable initiatives such as the company’s first rainwater harvesting system in a centre that will be used for nurturing the plants.

With its array of exciting additions and carefully curated offerings, Hillier’s Newbury Centre promises an enriching experience for all who step through its doors!

Visit hillier.co.uk to find out more about Hillier Garden Centres.

See gallery of pictures below...

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With the great and good from the garden retail gathered at Celtic Manor, the winners of the highly-anticipated 2023 GIMA Awards were revealed. Here we hear from the brands who celebrated in style.

This year, the GIMA Awards winners were carefully selected by a panel of industry experts, made up of Gary Carvosso, Coolings Garden Centre; Shelley Bou Chrouch, Scarlet Opus; Mairi Devlin, B&Q; Ian Hodgson, Garden News; Trevor Pfeiffer, Garden Trade News; Michelle de Lavis-Trafford, Choice Marketing; Nicola Pugh, Pugh’s Garden Centre; Nicola Seagar, Primrose; and Tristan Sissons, Hillier Garden Centres.  As always, innovation, thoughtful design and carefully curated content came together to create a roster of entries that gave the judges plenty of food for thought. However, after much debate and discussion a final list of winners was created, which tonight has been announced by celebrity host, Gethin Jones.  

GIMA Director, Vicky Nuttall said of the event: “What a night! Every year the awards keep getting better and better. We continue to see more guests joining us and also see the competition heating up as brands from across the industry hope to be the ones to take the trophy home. Tonight’s event has been truly superb. We’ve seen new names climb the winner’s podium and together have celebrated the best our industry has to offer. Thank you to all that attended, and thanks also to our judges and sponsors for their contribution.”

GIMA AWARDS 2023 – THE WINNERS

One of the most coveted accolades is the GIMA Sword of Excellence, and this year it was Sipcam Home & Garden who walked away with the honour for its Organic Superfood for Peat-Free Compost. The judges said: “The single biggest issue that we face as an industry is the move to peat-free compost and this helps to address this challenge.  It's also well-presented and has great commercial opportunities.”

What the winner had to say: “We launched it at Glee in 2022 and spent at least six or eight months before that with our Spanish and Italian colleagues. So it's been a group effort for us to try and get a solution to an issue we've got on the market.” Nigel Thompson, Head of Sales and Marketing.

Elsewhere, the team from Smart Garden Products celebrated being awarded the GCA Supplier of the Year Award, having just missed out on the accolade last year. The team pipped 2022 winners, Meadow View Stone, and Woodlodge to the win. The GCA said of Smart Garden: “Our reasons for selecting Smart Garden Products as the 2023 GCA Supplier of the Year are simple. They are extremely reliable with great availability and prompt delivery and offer products that are well presented and sell well. Together this all makes them a joy to work alongside.”

The 2023 Gardenex Export Achievement Award was presented to Grow Sow Simple for its campaign alongside Winco Foods in the US, with VegTrug and Wildlife World enjoying finalist status. Talking about the success of Grow Sow Simple, Gardenex said: “This was a very professional and successful operation and a very worthy winner of the Award for their outstanding achievement.”

What the winner had to say: “I couldn’t be more thrilled. Seeds is a sector that suffered through Brexit. Thankfully we were able to work with Gardenex and open up the American market, which has been so important to us. We initially started with a couple of trade shows, and from there we met a big client and got our first order. This year we exported to seven, 40-foot containers. We got into a company called WinCo Foods on the West coast of America with four ranges into its 133 stores, and our 42 staff worked 24 hours a day in our warehouse in Newcastle to put the put the order out in short time. It's done really well. We can't wait for next year.” Dan Robson, Managing Director.

Sustainability was also celebrated with Treadstone Products walking away with this year’s HTA sponsored Sustainability Award for its Rope Trellis.  The judges remarked: “Sometimes the simplest of ideas are the best and this rope trellis provides consumers with a great sustainable solution for climbing plants.”

What the winner had to say: “It’s been a very busy night for us. We have won six awards and we are very, very pleased. “The rope trellis has been an idea that's been buzzing around in the back of my head for many years and it’s something a bit different. It’s one of these things you tend to get a feel for when lots and lots of people, young and old, male or female universally seems to be attracted to it. That’s when you know you're onto a winner.”  Dean Winters, Product and Marketing Director.

GIMA AWARDS 2023 - PRODUCT AWARDS

Garden Care - Sponsored by Decco

Winner: Sipcam Home & Garden - Organic Superfood for Peat-Free Compost

Finalists: STV International - The Big Cheese Poison Free Range, Westland - John Innes Peat-Free Compost Range, Hygeia - Nature Safe Seaweed Enriched Feed

Category Sustainability Champion: STV International - The Big Cheese Poison Free Range

About the winner: It’s an organic product users can mix into compost, or around the base of plants, resulting in up twice the crop yield and bigger brighter blooms within their peat-free gardening projects. With the benefit of high-efficacy and being environmentally friendly retailers finally have a solution that encourages increased use of peat-free compost. 

What the judges said: “This has delivered a solution for peat free growing where consumers are struggling with performance.”

Growing, Planting Equipment and Sundries

Winner: Autopot Global - Tray2Grow

Finalists: Treadstone - Rope Trellis, Elho - Green Basics Growpot and Growtray All-in-One, Hozelock- Wonderhoze

Category Sustainability Champion: Treadstone - Rope Trellis

About the winner: One system, five uses. Tray2Grow allows growers unrivalled scope to cultivate using different methods within the same system. This unique versatility is born out of Tray2Grow’s innovative layout, instinctive adjustability, and the incorporation of the patented AQUAvalve water control device, which provides Plant Controlled Irrigation for truly responsive growing.

What the judges said: “Really well thought out design and function. Excellent packaging which is super informative.”

What the winner had to say: “Really pleased to get this award because of the innovation and the technology and the three years of hard work that's gone into getting it ready. And because of its water saving issues, recycled plastic, organic inks that we use on the boxes for the recycled packaging.” Jason Ralph-Smith, Owner of AutoPot Global.

Garden Tools, Machinery and Implements – Sponsored by eBay

Winner: Burgon & Ball - New RHS-endorsed trowels

Finalists:  Gardena - MicroCutting Range, Westland - Kent & Stowe Eversharp Garden Snips, 

About the winner: These new trowels are unique in the market as Burgon & Ball are the only garden tools suppliers endorsed by the RHS. Planting tools are the top-selling stainless category, and these trowels offer exciting design choices for different types of planting, inspiring even those gardeners who already own an everyday trowel.

What the judges said: “A lovely addition to a really comprehensive range of quality hand tools.”

What the winner had to say: “We came up with the range because not everyone wants to use a standard trowel. There are different types of planting and different plants. So we looked into what those were and made sure we had a solution for every type of planting. It's been wonderfully received by the trade, so we're really proud to get the award and the recognition. And the sales have been good. The feedback and the distribution wins we've had from it is one of the easiest we've had in years. We should have done it a long time ago.” Ruth Posey, Sales Director.

Outdoor Leisure 

Winner: Zest Outdoor Living - Garden Bar Set

Finalists: Primeur - Eco Trend Recycled Rubber BBQ Mat, Maze Outdoor - Bali Rope Weave 8 Seat Oval Dining Set with Interchangeable Cushion Covers, Hozelock – Outdoor Shower

Category Sustainability Champion: Primeur - Eco Trend Recycled Rubber BBQ Mat

About the winner:  In a market full of converted garden sheds or open lectern style bars, this product is like no other. It folds from a features packed bar to a super compact footprint in seconds, securely storing the drinks and stools ready for next time.

What the judges said: “A clever multifunctional design and a great addition to any outdoor living space.”

Plants, Seeds and Bulbs

Winner: Westland – Nature’s Haven Easy Wildflowers Shady Mix

Finalists: Westland – Unwins Gardener's Seed Box, Tildenet - Haxnicks Wildflower Seedballs

Category Sustainability Champion: Tildenet - Haxnicks Wildflower Seedballs

About the winner: Nature’s Haven Easy Wildflowers Shady Mix combines flower seeds as well as seed sowing granules handpicked to be perfect for shady areas. The seeds include native British Isles wildflowers for a nectar rich and colourful wildflower garden.

What the judges said: “An easy way to sow seeds and a good specific mix for shady spots.”

Garden Landscaping

Winner: Treadstone Products – Rope Trellis

Finalists: Primeur – EZ Border Recycled Rubber Mower Edge, Forest Garden - Slatted Arch

Category Sustainability Champion: Treadstone Products – Rope Trellis

About the winner: Inspired by traditional cargo nets, this natural trellis feature is hand woven using clever non-slipping knots. Available in five sizes, the trellis can be used on fences and walls or simply suspended between two posts to create natural screening. It can be easily lifted off a fence to allow access for painting.

What the judges said: “'This is a superb natural climber support with great sustainable credentials.”

Garden Clothing & Gifts

Winner: Phoenox Textiles - Hug Rug Rainbow Trust Charity Mats

Finalists: Treadstone Products – ClipGlove Recycled Bottle Glove, EP Barrus - Memory Foam Folding Kneeler

Category Sustainability Champion: Phoenox Textiles - Hug Rug Rainbow Trust Charity Mats

About the winner: These new Hug Rug designs allow customers to make a feel-good purchase that also gives back. Not only are these designs useful for gardeners but they are also responsible, environmentally friendly products, that support a worthy charity – Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity.

What the judges said: “Lovely design, great quality and a wonderful story behind these rugs.”

Pet Care, Aquatics and Wild Bird Care Products

Winner: CJ Wildlife - National Trust Kids Range

Finalists: Fauna Bird (Singing Friend) - YARA 100% Recycled Fat Ball Feeder, Westland - 'Peckish Complete Paper Packaging

Category Sustainability Champion: Fauna Bird (Singing Friend) - YARA 100% Recycled Fat Ball Feeder

About the winners: These products were developed as a complete start-up range to engage with children and encourage them to take an interest in wildlife. The range start at affordable ‘pocket money’ prices and whilst the build-your-own kits may cost a little more they are great gifts that encourage teamwork, imagination and, most of all, fun!

What the judges said: “A great way to get kids outside and engaged with nature.”

What the winner had to say: “We're really proud of it. We wanted the range to not just be something they buy and take home, but something they could build, decorate, and colour. And then watch the birds use them as well so children are learning through fun.”

Garden Lighting, Water Features & Ornamentation 

Winner: The Solar Centre – Slimsafe Solar Security Light

Finalist: Capi Europe - Hydria Water Feature Kit with Planter, The AMES Companies - Easy Fountain Ango Falls, The Solar Centre- Gemini Solar Wall Light

Category Sustainability Champion: The Solar Centre – Slimsafe Solar Security Light

About the winner: These lights use microwave motion sensors and magnify the solar energy to its panel to maximise the power gained and the light emitted.

What the judges said: “A brilliantly bright solar security light, made to last.”

Decorative Pots & Planters 

Winner: Capi Europe - Groove Recyclable Planter 533

Finalist: Primeur - Tierra Verde Recycled Rubber Trough Collection, Forest Garden - Living Screen Planter

Category Sustainability Champion: Capi Europe - Groove Recyclable Planter 533

About the winner: This new planter is now made from recyclable material and has seen its manufacturing move from China to Europe in a move to reshore productions and cut energy consumption. What’s more, it is a beautiful pot.

What the judges said: “A great example of recycling, in this instance sawdust, into great looking pots.”

GIMA AWARDS 2023 – MARKETING AWARDS

Best Point of Sale Material

Winner: Wildlife World - Artisan Nester Display Tree

Finalists: Westland - G.E.M.S - Gardening Essentials Merchandising Solutions, Elho - The Ocean Collection Octagon Stand, Treadstone Products - Rope Trellis Display Stand

Category Sustainability Champion: Elho - The Ocean Collection Octagon Stand

About the winner: The new Artisan Nester display trees have been handmade in Wildlife World’s workshop using its CNC machine. Made from OSB board, with holes for wooden dowel, the display tree has been designed to hold and/or hang the company’s Fairtrade handmade Artisan Nesters and comes complete with hanging Fairtrade signs. 

What the judges said: “A great bit of retail theatre that brings the product to life whilst, at the same time, allows the product to be the star.”

What the winner had to say: “This is a team effort. Our sales team came up with the concept. We brought it back to the workshop, showed it to one of the workshop designers. He created it and we made it. We now have over 150 [in stores] and sales are going up by three, four, 500% by using it. Sales are just astronomical and in a very small footprint of around two-foot square.” Mark Pittman, Managing Director.

Best Sustainable Product Packaging

Winner: Westland - Peckish Natural Balance Local Seed Mix

Finalists: Westland - Peckish Complete Paper Packaging, Altico - Recycled Water Feature Packaging

Category Sustainability Champions: Westland - Peckish Natural Balance Local Seed Mix

About the winner: Through the sourcing of local ingredients to plastic-free packaging, Westland is committed to a sustainable future. The new improved recipes include varieties that contain more seeds for more birds and are locally sourced. The best-selling brand in the market, making a difference with sustainable new packaging solutions.

What the judges said: “Great bit of sustainable packaging design without losing the strong brand identity.”

Best Marketing Communication & Social Media Award

Winner: Gardena- GARDENA ReTh!nk @ Chelsea Flower Show

Finalists: Elho - 'The Ocean Collection’ online media campaign video, Wildlife World - Print Your Own POS, Evergreen Garden Care, Grow Your Own on a Budget Campaign

About the winner: The powerful message of the ReTh!nk garden is built on the Circular R’s: Reduce, Repair, Recycle. Gardena quantify and qualify how sustainable each of its products are and the company aims to create more circular innovations to help consumers make conscious and sustainable decisions.

What the judges said: “Great use of the Chelsea Flower Show to underline brand values and launch products. A well-rounded campaign to appeal to new gardeners.”

What the winner had to say:  “Sustainability is a massive factor within our industry, a massive factor within our business. The ReTh!nk campaign was basically a task of an individual to see what they could change in their daily gardening life that would make an impact to the earth and environment. It has made people think a little bit more about what they were doing and we're very, very delighted to win the award today.” Edward Cantle. Channel Sales Manager - Garden Centres and Independent Retailers.

See GTN Xtra's gallery of photos from the evening below.

Nature’s Haven Easy Wildflowers Shady Mix from Unwins Seeds was crowned the winner of the Plants, Seeds & Blubs category at this year’s GIMA Awards.

The judges commented that the Unwins Wildflowers Shady Mix was “an easy way to sow seeds and a good specific mix for shady spots”. The Unwins Gardener’s Seed Box was also a finalist in the same category.

The mix combines flower seeds as well as seed sowing granules handpicked to be perfect for shady areas. The seeds include native British Isles wildflowers for a nectar rich and colourful wildflower garden. Consumers simply scatter the seeds and watch and wait as a they grow into a beautiful display that supports nature, from bees to butterflies, and even a variety of insects.

Creating a colourful display in a shady area can be tricky for even the most experienced gardener, so the Unwins Nature's Haven Shady Wildflowers mix is proud of its specially created mix that grows into a stunning sight that everyone can enjoy, no matter how shady their outdoor space is.

This year, Unwins celebrated its 120th anniversary, and remains at the forefront of sweet pea innovation after William Unwin sold his first sweet pea seed ‘Gladys Unwin’ in 1903. The GIMA award accolade cements Unwins as a world-class seed innovator that aims to bring colour and biodiversity to gardens across the UK and Ireland.

For more information about Unwins, visit www.unwins.co.uk

Peckish, the leading wild bird food brand by Westland Horticulture, saw its Natural Balance Local Seed Mix being crowned the winner in the Best Sustainable Product Packaging category at this year’s GIMA Awards.

The judges commented that the Peckish Natural Balance Local Seed Mix is a “great bit of sustainable packaging design without losing the strong brand identity”. The mix also picked up the category’s Sustainability Champion accolade.

Peckish is committed to a sustainable future, and continually invests in sourcing the best local ingredients and reducing plastic packaging throughout its range. 100% of the ingredients used in the Natural Balance Seed Mix is sourced from UK and Irish farms and are rich in nutrients to help birds thrive all year round.

Rachael McWilliam, Head of Category & Brand, for Peckish, commented: “Winning the GIMA award for Best Sustainable Packaging really cements to us that we’re on the right path as a brand that’s always looking for ways to improve our environmental impact. At Peckish, we have a mission to support nature, with initiatives such as our ‘field to beak’ strategy, which strives to reduce waste, offset carbon emissions by reducing miles, and continued innovation into sustainable products.

“Later this year, we’re excited to be launching a multi-platform campaign that celebrates the public’s love of nature through the vivid colours wild birds bring to gardens during the grey winter months. We believe our campaign, ‘Colour in your garden’, which launches on TV on Christmas day, encapsulates the essence of Peckish; that we want to bring everyone closer to nature in the most sustainable way.”

Find out more about Peckish at www.peckishbirdfood.com

Expert wildlife brand, CJ Wildlife, has taken home the award for Best Product in the Pet Care, Aquatics and Wild Bird Care category at this year's prestigious GIMA Awards. 

Its new Kids Wildlife Range, made in collaboration with the National Trust, has been hailed by judges as “a great way to get kids outside and engaged with nature.” 

The collection, which launched in March this year and was the first of its kind in the UK, was created to provide a fun, exciting way to encourage children to care for wildlife from an early age – starting in their back garden! 

Phil Kent, Head of UK Sales at CJ Wildlife, commented on the win: “We’re over the moon that the National Trust Kids Wildlife range has been recognised as Best Product in its category. The collection offers consumers a unique selection of affordable, fun and practical products to engage children with the natural world around them – and they have already proven to be hugely popular since launching earlier this year. We are looking forward to speaking with retailers interested in stocking the range in the coming months, and would urge businesses to get in touch with me to discuss opportunities.” 

Among the products introduced were three easy-flip, fully recyclable bird feeders, bird feed packaged in colour-coordinated, recyclable tubs, and FSC-certified, build-your-own wildlife wooden box kits, all featuring the iconic National Trust oakleaf logo. 

To further encourage little ones to get outdoors, the range also offers families a digital hub of free activity sheets to keep little ones engaged with their outdoor space, while educating them about Britain’s wildlife.  

Claire Smith, Chief Officer of Partnerships, Products, and Business Development at CJ Wildlife added: “We are so incredibly proud of the National Trust Kids Wildlife Range. The passion and drive behind the collection was simple - we wanted to encourage more children to get outside and to engage with the wildlife around them. We believe that getting little ones involved with nature from an early age will nurture a lifelong love as well as educate and inform the next generation on the importance of caring for wildlife.” 

Becky Stanford, Head of Brand Licensing at the National Trust said: “One of the things we’re most passionate about at the National Trust is ensuring everybody has access to nature, and the National Trust Kids Wildlife Range furthered this mission. This prestigious award recognises the importance and value of teaching our children about wildlife and why we should care for it, and seeing the range acknowledged at the ceremony is an incredible testimony to how beneficial and successful it has been.” 

Retailers interested in stocking CJ Wildlife’s National Trust Kids Wildlife Range should contact Phil Kent by emailing phil.kent@birdfood.co.uk