|
|
Notcutts reveals new look at Staines garden centre
Notcutts revealed its new look at a special ribbon-cutting event on Thursday. It marked the completion of the first phase of development at Notcutts in Staines, which has seen a new-look restaurant as well as an increase in the indoor retail space. The refurbishment is part of the company's five-year plan to redevelop its 18 centres across the UK.
Notcutts revealed its new look at a special ribbon-cutting event on Thursday. Vice-Chairman Caroline Notcutt cut the ribbon to mark the completion of the first phase of development at Notcutts in Staines, which has seen a new-look restaurant as well as an increase in the indoor retail space.
The Staines refurbishment project is part of Notcutts’ five-year plan to redevelop its 18 centres across the UK.
The modern design of the new restaurant has created a calm and tranquil environment and includes individual counters to minimise queuing as well as a variety of different seating areas to suit individual needs.
The new restaurant has capacity for up to 270 people and features a seasonal menu, consisting of a selection of homemade dishes using fresh local produce, hot and cold food, drinks and snacks. Visitors to the centre can also enjoy a traditional afternoon tea as well as a large selection of homemade cakes.
The home, gift and seasonal departments has also been redesigned with new flooring, lighting and an improved product layout. Other features include brand new accessible toilets with unisex baby changing facilities.
Matt Ellis, Centre Manager for Staines, said: “The redevelopment plans for Staines are incredibly exciting and we hope will provide an enjoyable and inspirational experience for our customers. We’re looking forward to welcoming our customers into the new, modern restaurant which will be a fantastic addition to the centre.”
The second phase, which is due to be completed in Spring 2017, will see the remaining canopy enclosed to complete the expansion of the indoor plant and retail area.
A new outdoor eating area will overlook a new ‘inspiration garden’ which will provide customers with creative ideas for their own gardening projects. For families visiting the centre, the existing children’s play area is being relocated near to the outdoor eating area.
Pictured above (L-R): The Notcutts team: Tim Betts, Property Projects Manager; Matt Ellis, Staines Garden Centre Manager; Caroline Notcutt, Vice-Chairman; Graham Walker, Regional Manager (South); Michael Cole, Business Development Retail Property Director; Carl Hadfield, Head of Restaurants and Julie Murray, Marketing Director.
Below: Local dignitaries including the Mayor and Mayoress of Spelthorne Borough Council, representatives from local businesses and the Notcutts team.
 |
|
|
|
 Two weeks on from HTA Futures, GTN Xtra asked a handful of retailer delegates what they had gained from attending what was in our opinion one of the most thought provoking and inspirational garden industry conferences of recent years. At a time when there is more change and uncertainty on the horizon we asked: What was the most useful thing you learned from HTA Futures? What/who inspired you to make radical changes back at the centre in the coming months? Have you already been able to use the content to motivate your team and get new thinking going for next year and the future? Here are the responses we received: Gary Carvasso, Coolings “I totally valued the time out. The HTA team worked hard I felt to deliver and succeeded. “As a mature, successful and profitable business we could easily be in danger of losing the art of start-up and introducing new services in particular. Leonard Diepenbrock, the German family business entrepreneur challenged our thinking and flagged up the dangerous path we could find ourselves taking as a business. The truth is we are so caught up in making things better and cheaper that we miss great opportunities. “Dr Ross Cameron, from the University of Sheffield examined the climate predictions for the UK and looked at how this will affect gardening and garden retail, and has spawned an idea to include in our future. “PY Gerbeau who has an impressive track record of turning around failing enterprises. The four things you need in order to survive: flexibility, adaptability, agility, and common sense. Leaders must remember that their best asset is not their product or their business strategy, but their people. We are currently working on a 10-year plan for our business and it helped me put in context the relationship between investment required for capital projects and the significant investment we need to plan for, in terms keeping AND adding the right people. It is our people who deliver the experience. “Our management meetings will need to focus more about the future, and in fact 9 of us spent some time this morning considering this in light of the provocation from Leonard. How do we create an environment of a freedom to fail, possibly creating a start-up fund that our teams can pitch for? Paul Playdell suggested a good business is like a table with many legs and that led me to think what other services are we not offering on and off site, that make sense and offer solutions to our customers. Ideas are flowing already. He also reminded us that experience is vital when almost every product is available elsewhere: We must make customers laugh and cry, we need to be daring and memorable. “As ever the value of meeting new people, catching up with suppliers and others in the garden retail trade, always produces bags of stuff that is useful in shaping your thinking.” Julie Wigglesworth, Aylett Nurseries “My thoughts are: To use a new measure: “smiles per square metre” to measure customer experience, and remember to tell the story rather than just put product on a shelf. The research into plant breeding and the future use of plants in our cities, thinking of trees as air conditioning units, and climbing plants as insulators. “ Never do anything radical - customers do not tend to enjoy it! Continue to evolve and change, remember to keep up with ever changing technology - I had never heard of Amazon dash now I would like a button on my washing machine too! “Continue to think about what we can do to make our customers life better. “I think the day should be thought of as a training day, opening eyes and ears to different ideas, that can be used in the future. Not sure I have had time to put any of it into action yet but it is all in my mind and who knows when it may be useful. It is very easy to stay in your centre, getting caught up with the mundane and forget what a broad and fantastic industry we work in! The day should be used to motivate yourself, gaining an insight into many different ideas, it can be quite lonely at the top (or bottom depending how you look at it) and after a day like that, you hear that other people have the same frustrations and concerns and you are not alone. If the leaders remain motivated the team will follow. Simon Fraser, Ben Reid “It is the biggest investment in my personal development a year, so crucial to the business. I felt I had a full return on investment by the first coffee break this year so good was the content! We always overestimate the change that will occur in the next two years and underestimate the change that will occur in the next ten. Don't let yourself be lulled into inaction. - Bill Gates “Never has this been more true! “The most useful thing I learned from Wednesday HTA Futures: Keep being the best, and make sure the team believe it too! The tale of the Boots employee sending PY to spec savers is such an important lesson for all retailers. “Ibrahim Ibrahim and the future foundation guys inspired me to make radical changes back at the centre in the coming months: Understanding the many routes-journeys to buying and how we can engage with the consumer going forward. “I’ve been on holiday this week but when I get back we will discuss how we can continue to add fun and knowledge into our product mix. I came home and signed up to Garden Connects personal email scheme!” Tim Godwin, Fosseway “The one who did it for me was Lenard Diepenbrock who has transformed his business by looking outside the box and being honest about the business to see that the was little opportunity to revolutionise what he was successfully doing already. “I thought there was some good content from Ibrahim. I loved the measuring “smiles per square metre” as something a progressive garden centre should be measuring. With some very interesting stuff from the future foundation especially Joshua and his view of what might happen through this uncertain time. The digital age is upon us but good staff are a very strong key to the door. “I have put a team together with a budget to look at what we could be doing and should be doing to develop the business over the next 10 years and have some answers by the end of January 2017. I feel doing this over the busy period will concentrate the mind further.” Adam Wigglesworth, Aylett Nurseries and HTA President “Remember the value of the front facing team - they actually deliver the service. “These conferences are vital so you can get out and get ideas, it’s really difficult to be thinking strategically and managing the risks to your business when you are embroiled in the everyday hub-bub like most of us. “It’s one day and a dinner - you and your businesses deserve it! “Quite often you have a kernel of an idea and someone at these days will help you distil it. “If you think what professional advice costs these days are really good value. “We have an amazing industry and people share so much if you are not there you do not hear it!” GTN Xtra comment: In a market sector where independent retailers still hold the majority of outlets we wonder why more of the small to medium sized businesses do not take advantage of conferences such as these? The HTA are doing great things to help everyone involved in our industry and the biggest potential benefactors are retailers. Our industry needs, and does have, a vibrant and helpful trade association but why are more members not attending events such as HTA Futures and making the most of their membership? If you’d like to share your thoughts with us, please use the comments button below or e-mail: trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk Read Mike Wyatt’s reports from HTA Futures in the November issue of GTN that will be arriving in your post next week.
|
|
GTN Bestsellers predicts that half-term week will make this October a record month.
Our current data is showing all sales running currently 6% up on last year. With the weather forecast staying good for Halloween weekend, prospects for garden centre trading are far from scary.
With Christmas sales running at 33% up year on year, sales volumes overall could get back to parity for the whole year if trends continue at the present rate. Good news indeed.
GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year...
- Garden Products - down 7%
- Growing Media - up 5%
- Christmas Products - up 35%
- All Items Index - up 7%
Below is the UK Bestsellers All Garden Products Top 20.
|
|
Customers at Tong Graden Centre in Bradford are set to benefit from the generosity of the UK's largest mobility retailer. Eden Mobility has donated five wheelchairs to help visitors to get about the large site safely and comfortably.
Tong Garden Centre marketing manager Jo Dales said the donations from Eden Mobility have been put to excellent use.
"We're very grateful to Eden for their continued support and we know we can always rely on them to provide an excellent service and invaluable mobility aids.
"Thanks to their help, we can be accessible to all customers, and ensure they are able to enjoy their visit to Tong."
Eden Mobility marketing manager Mark Fotherby said: "We understand how important accessibility is in the retail sector, and we believe that providing wheelchairs for customer use enhances the visitor experience.
"People often assume that it is just the elderly or infirm that require our services, but that isn't always the case: people of all ages and circumstances can benefit from the products and services that we provide."
Eden Mobility was formed in 1998 by business partners David Hughes and Karl Howe who opened their first showroom in Bentley, Doncaster. The mobility retailer also holds regular demonstrations for visitors to Tong Garden Centre.
Pictured (L-R): Anita Kirkham, Eden Mobility, Diane Farrar, Jack Tallis and Asif Khan from Tong Garden Centre
|
|
 Westland has achieved the highest food safety standard accreditation from the British Retail Consortium (BRC), a global monitoring organisation.
Its bird care factory in Driffield, East Yorkshire, has held the highest accreditation from the BRC for the last seven years, across a stringent set of criteria, covering everything from processes, hygiene and safety, to full traceability of ingredients. This year it achieved the newly created AA grade, only awarded for sites which manufacturer food products of exceptional safety and quality.
This continued success follows a two day annual audit of the state-of-the-art manufacturing site, which produces the leading brands Peckish, Nature’s Feast and Bucktons. The facility recently underwent a £1.5m investment to manufacture suet products and now produces 99% of its own food range in-house.
James Farnsworth, General Manager at Westland, said: “The BRC is more than just an accreditation to us. It’s about creating a culture in which everyone in the company recognises the importance of product safety the quality of our products. This standard means both retailers and shoppers can trust our products to be the best quality in the UK.”
The BRC award is testament to Westland’s commitment to excellence, quality produce and highly trained staff. In addition to the status, Westland can also provide significant support to retailers through investments in advertising and marketing. This includes in- depth customer insight which has led to a more effective product positioning across all bird food brands.
The BRC is a global food safety standard recognised throughout the world by over 17,000 certified suppliers in over 90 countries. It is given to manufacturers who can prove they implement best practice across their entire manufacturing process.
For further information about the products included in the Nature’s Feast, Peckish and Bucktons ranges, visit http://trade.gardenhealth.com/Pictured: Peckish now produces 99% of its own food at the BRC accredited factory, following a £1.5m suet production investment.
|
|
Gearing up for a busy 2017, Kelkay make further investment in new machinery and take the opportunity to honour WWII Bomber Command at their base on the site of RAF Snaith.
It’s perhaps not widely known that Kelkay’s main manufacturing and logistics hub near Snaith in East Yorkshire is on the site of a WWII airfield which originally became operational in 1941 and from where 150 Squadron participated in Bomber Command until late 1942.
51 Squadron then moved in until the end of the war during which time a total of 57 Wellington Bombers and 148 Halifax aircraft were lost. A memorial garden is located on the site, close to the entrance to Kelkay’s main reception building, which commemorates the 892 airmen who lost their lives on active duty.
So, when Kelkay invested earlier this year in a fleet of high performance fork lift trucks to streamline their material handing at the site, it seemed appropriate to give each of the new trucks badges naming them after WWII aircraft.
Barrie King, Logistics Manager, said: “We wanted to give the operators a real sense of pride in their new forklifts as well as making it easy to identify them, so allocating WWII aircraft names seemed the obvious choice. It provides a poignant reminder of the history of the site here in Snaith and all those who bravely gave their lives.”
The Snaith air base was substantial, providing accommodation for 2,400 service personnel and some of the extensive buildings remain in use by the company. One of the main (type J) hangars now forms Kelkay’s main aggregate bagging and storage facility, whilst other wartime structures have been re-deployed for other uses. The main runway was bisected by the construction of the M62 in the early 1970s.
The new forklift trucks, which were supplied by Toyota Material Handling, have highly efficient and reliable industrial engines, counterbalance design and the unique SAS (System of Advanced Stability) to ensure driver comfort and safety. The new forklifts were handed over last month and are in full operation helping to manage the unprecedented demand Kelkay are enjoying for their new ranges since launching at Glee.
|
|
Burgon & Ball launches new RHS-endorsed products
Burgon & Ball has launched extensive new ranges of RHS-endorsed gardening gifts and tools. They include a new design for the award-winning RHS Gifts for Gardeners range, as well as some highly attractive new hand tools and a collection of brightly coloured tools that even absent-minded gardeners won’t lose.
Burgon & Ball has launched extensive new ranges of RHS-endorsed gardening gifts and tools.
They include a new design for the award-winning RHS Gifts for Gardeners range, as well as some highly attractive new hand tools and a collection of brightly coloured tools that even absent-minded gardeners won’t lose.
The new design for Burgon & Ball’s award-winning RHS Gifts for Gardeners range is called Flora and Fauna. It takes inspiration from the wonderful historic archive of botanical art held by the RHS Lindley Library. The Flora and Fauna collection, which features images of delicate foliage and beautiful birds, includes twine in a tin, hand tools, a mug, a tray, an umbrella and more. All the favourite items in the RHS Gifts for Gardeners range — as well as some new arrivals — will be available in the new design.
The brand new FloraBrites range unites form and function in an unforgettable way. Developed in response to customer requests — notably at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show — for bright and ‘unlosable’ tools, those in this range are fluorescent yellow or pink, with reflective highlights that glow under torchlight. The RHS FloraBrite range includes trowels, forks and a selection of secateurs, all perfect for the vision-impaired — or simply absent-minded — gardener.
Burgon & Ball has also introduced two new gardening essentials: the stylish Ergo Deadheader, ergonomically designed to minimise joint and muscle strain during prolonged use, and the compact Micro Secateur, a gardening essential that is easy to pop in a pocket for gardening on the go.
All the new RHS-endorsed products were on show in September on the Burgon & Ball stand at Glee, the UK’s biggest and most valuable garden and outdoor living trade show, where they received an enthusiastic response. The products will be available from RHS Shops, all good garden centres and www.burgonandball.com by mid-October.
Burgon & Ball began manufacturing in 1730, producing some of the finest sheep shears and cutting tools in the world. The company is also at the leading edge of garden tool and accessory innovation and design — in recent years launching some of the best-received new products in the industry. Among its many RHS-endorsed products to date are a stainless steel garden tool range that includes large, mid-handled and hand tools — for digging, planting, clearing, weeding, cultivating and hoeing — and a range of cutting tools that includes secateurs, lawn shears, hedge shears, loppers, saws and pruning knives. Heather Culpan, Managing Director, Burgon & Ball, says: “The combined inspiration of the fabulous imagery available to us as an RHS licensee and feedback from our loyal customer base has helped us to develop some of our best gardening tools and gifts yet — highly functional and useful but also very attractive and appealing.” Cathy Snow, RHS Licensing Manager, says: “Visitors to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show were among customers requesting highly visible tools — and what a wonderful response the FloraBrites range is. The Flora and Fauna design for our Gifts for Gardeners range are delightful gifts and an absolutely stunning use of our artwork. These new ranges are among Burgon & Ball’s finest work to date.”
|
|
Early Christmas shopping evening a success at Squire’s
Christmas came early at Squire’s Garden Centre in Badshot Lea and Shepperton when they held a “Prepare for Christmas” shopping event...
The Mayor & Mayoress of Waverley, Matt Tanner from Squire's, Sue Weaver from Change of Scene.
Christmas came early at Squire’s Garden Centre in Badshot Lea and Shepperton when they held a “Prepare for Christmas” shopping event.
People enjoyed a fun and relaxing evening browsing Squire’s fantastic selection of Christmas goodies, while enjoy a complimentary glass of wine, live music, a Christmas Card making demonstration, and a charity raffle – which raised £390 for Squire’s local charities “Change of Scene” and “White Lodge Centre”.
The Mayor and Mayoress of Waverley attended the event at Squire’s Badshot Lea, and enjoyed it so much that they will be back at Squire’s to see their new Christmas Circus which starts on 26th November - 31st December. Tickets can be booked online now at www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk.
Pictured: The Mayor & Mayoress of Waverley, Matt Tanner from Squire's, Sue Weaver from Change of Scene.
|
|
|
Weber World initiative doubles in-store sales
Garden centres selected for Weber barbecues’ elevated shopping experience – Weber World – have reported as much as a 239% increase in sales since its launch in April of this year...
Garden centres selected for Weber barbecues’ elevated shopping experience – Weber World – have reported as much as a 239% increase in sales since its launch in April of this year.
Weber World is an enhanced shopping experience providing a greater choice of products in-store as well as expert advice, cookery demonstrations and for the first time ever, barbecue health-checks.
Seven garden centres across the country were hand-picked to run the pilot project – Hayes Garden World in Cumbria, The Orchard in Dublin, Alton Garden Centre in Essex, Gordale Garden and Home Centre in South Wirral, Fosseway Garden Centre in Gloucestershire, Riverside in Hertford and Sunshine Garden Centre in North London.
As part of the enhanced retail offering, partners underwent intensive Weber training, including hands-on cooking experiences; to ensure they can provide the right advice and informative in-store demonstrations from how to clean your grill and how to choose the right barbecue, to basic grill skills. Each garden centre also launched a search to find the best local barbecue recipe with winning entrants being published in Weber’s Book of Barbecue.
Since joining the scheme the majority of Weber’s partners have reported an increase in in-store sales and boost in footfall. UK YTD EPOS reports indicate that sales at Hayes Garden Centre are up by a staggering 239%, Fosseway Garden Centre has confirmed an increase of 149% whilst Gordale Garden and Home Centre has achieved a boost in sales of 103%.
Ian Hodgett from Hayes Garden World said: “Having launched Weber World just under six months ago, we are astounded by the phenomenal results. The facility is fantastic for consumers who are new to Weber but also existing customers looking to expand their barbecue knowledge. Weber World is attracting customers from the surrounding areas not just Ambleside and we now have a reputation as the place for people to enjoy a wider choice of products.”
Marketing Manager Chris Trewhitt said, “Weber World has proven to be a huge success and we are thrilled with the reception from customers and our retailers. Looking ahead we are looking of ways to grow our network wider across the UK. This will enable more customers access to programs such as barbecue health checks, cleaning and assembly services which would otherwise not be available.”
For more information visit www.weber.com Pictured: Cutting of the ribbon at Hayes Garden World in Cumbria.
|
|
You can’t afford to miss the HTA Marketing Forum which takes place on Tuesday 8 November at Whittlebury Hall in Northamptonshire.
This one day event is aimed at all those involved in marketing across the garden industry and will consist of a number of bite sized sessions covering a wide range of marketing topics including strategy, experiential marketing, visual merchandising, social and broadcast media.
The programme includes:
Keynote speaker Mark Palmer, Group Marketing Director for one of the most recognised high street brands, Pret a Manger. Mark will look at the importance of brand and how, at Pret, they focus spending on improving the instore experience rather than spending on traditional media.
ITV’s Love Your Garden Executive Producer, Matt Young, and Presenter, Katie Rushworth, will provide an insight into the world of TV gardening.
Marketing consultant, trainer and author, Nigel Temple, will provide an overview of current marketing thinking along with tips on how to embrace the marketing mindset.
In conjunction with Horticulture Week, Creative Solutions, Haymarket’s in-house creative agency will provide inspiration and best practice examples demonstrating the value of digital marketing as part of an overall marketing strategy.
Pete Doyle from Social Retail will provide the latest know how on making the most of social media and Wildfire Marketing will demonstrate how to supercharge your sales with Facebook advertising.
Ex-Liberty visual merchandiser, Maxine Groucutt, will provide inspiration from outside the industry and trend watcher and green stylist, Romeo Sommers, will talk about using storytelling to help market your products, especially plants.
Sally Cornelissen from Burleydam Garden Centre will show how through a series of innovative events they successfully drive footfall.
Alan Down from Cleeve Nursery looks at how they are able to ‘punch above their weight’ in the PR field by getting involved with quirky projects which helps to raise brand awareness in the community.
Richard Jackson from QVC will look at online shopping and the way in which they often sell large volumes of product at strange times!
Hear the latest about the Love the Plot You’ve Got campaign from Ann Bryant from Garland PR.
The GTN Greatest Marketing Awards will also be announced at the event.
All in all, this great value event packed full of marketing knowhow, inspiration and top tips is not to be missed! Book your place now at www.hta.org.uk/marketingforum
|
|
Launch of GrowModule 365 – a sustainable indoor growing system
Bunzl Speciality Businesses have joined forces with specialist grower Ken Holland to launch GrowModule 365 in the UK, perfecting a sustainable indoor growing system, cultivating not only the freshest, super tasty leafy greens in record time, but also the ability to grow soft fruits and flavourful young vegetables all year round...
Bunzl Speciality Businesses have joined forces with specialist grower Ken Holland to launch GrowModule 365 in the UK, perfecting a sustainable indoor growing system, cultivating not only the freshest, super tasty leafy greens in record time, but also the ability to grow soft fruits and flavourful young vegetables all year round!
Paul Brown Managing Director of GrowModule 365 says: “GrowModule365 represents over 10 years research and development by our partner and Director Ken Holland and to the best of our knowledge, our concept, technology and knowhow is totally unique in its ability to successfully grow root vegetables as well as leaf”.
“This is one of the most exciting projects I’ve ever been fortunate enough to be involved with. From local cottage industries, to solutions for national growers and potentially a food growing solution to aid developing countries around the world – who knows where this journey could lead! Watch this space.”
The company, based in Peterlee, Co. Durham has designed and commissioned the build of a pre-built system which contains all of the required components for commercial food production and enables anyone to grow fresh produce all year round, regardless of weather, location or ability.
Ken Holland has conducted over 5 years of rigorous trialling and growing to ensure that each GrowModule cultivates only the very best tasting and highest quality fresh produce, using the most cutting edge technology.
Ken adds: “GrowModule 365 utilises game changing technology to ensure optimum performance. Each module contains a fully remote controlled growing system that you can operate from anywhere in the world! You can even monitor the GrowModule using an app when you shut down for a few weeks holiday! This is the future of smart growing”.
Using 90% less water than open-field farming methods, the GrowModule is a revolution in the way we grow our food. Crops will be completely unaffected by harmful chemicals, unpredictable climates and pests which come as factors in traditional growing.
For more details on GrowModule 365 Limited visit www.growmodule365.co.uk or email info@growmodule365.co.uk
|
|
|
|
|
The Company:
Apta is the leading supplier of quality flower pots and accessories to the UK garden trade, under its own brand and iconic UK brands, The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and Laura Ashley. The company has achieved very considerable growth and now wishes to strengthen its sales team with the recruitment of two motivated and ambitious sales professionals.
Job titles: Area Sales Manager
Territory 1: Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Herefordshire. Territory 2: Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Northants. Salary: Very attractive salary, bonus, company car and benefits. Progression: There will be opportunities to progress to senior sales positions.
The Role of Sales Representative:
Our new Sales Representatives will have responsibility for: - Ensuring that every sales appointment has an objective
- Driving sales growth and tracking performance
- Building upon strong partnerships with existing customers
- Developing new customers and securing sales orders
- Working with head office and a team of merchandisers to ensure that customer experience is always exceptional
- Planning and working to an effective journey plan, maximising customer contact
The person for this Sales Representative opportunity:
We are looking for high calibre, ambitious and self motivated Sales Professionals with excellent communication skills. Specific qualities will include: - Proven experience of working as a successful Sales Representative or Area Manager
- Experience closing sales with a decision maker
- Proven business development skills
- Skilled at fact finding, questioning and verbal clarity
- Strong negotiation and objection handling skills
- Empathy and the ability to build strong working relationships
For more information and to apply please contact Paul Sykes, Managing Director, paul.sykes@apta.co.uk or telephone 01233 621090 for a confidential discussion.
|
|
 On 5 October, following the completion of the sale of Bayer Garden to SBM Développement, we started our exciting journey and have now launched SBM Life Science Limited.
The business is now investing to realise our vision of creating a worldwide leader for home and garden solutions, and as a result we have created an exciting opportunity for a Brand Manager to join our commercial team.
The role offers a rare opportunity to take the reins of successful brands with a long heritage, such as Baby Bio & Phostrogen, where you can make a real difference.
For more information, please contact Christina Bouzala;
Christina.Bouzala@sbm-company.com.
|
|
On 5 October, following the completion of the sale of Bayer Garden to SBM Développement, we started our exciting journey and have now launched SBM Life Science Limited.
Key to realising our vision of creating a worldwide leader for home and garden solutions is the desire to increase our focus on collaboration with our garden centre retailer partners.
The business is therefore increasing its investment into market sales representation to support our customers and introduce them to the new opportunities presented by SBM Life Science.
We are seeking a full-time, talented industry sales representative to help us expand within the South East region.
For more information, please contact Scott Williams;
Scott.Williams@sbm-company.com.
|
|
Nursery Grower Technical Manager (ref:DS8734)
Location: West Sussex
Salary: Excellent
Date: 06 Oct
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
Based in West Sussex this leading Ornamental Plant Nursery are looking for an enthusiastic person who can work on their own and as part of a wider management team as their Technical Growing Manager. The nurseries have the reputation as high quality innovative businesses growing container garden plants for retail sale in Garden Centres and Multiples across the UK, with a combined production total circa 5 million pots, total growing area in excess of 25 acres - glasshouses, polythene tunnels, and outdoor production.They are looking for someone who can pay excellent attention to detail, is self-driven, able to question their own actions and learn from their own and others experiences.
The Role
As Technical Manager you must contribute positively to developing and improving staff and be directly accountable to the joint Managing Director of the nursery businesses.
- You will have overall decision-making authority on Crop Protection matters.
- You will benefit from attending events, training days and conferences and working within a team including growing departments across the nurseries (Propagation, Plant Breeding, Trials and Crop Growing).
- Liaise with external consultants who provide regular crop walks and advice.
- Also be part of group committees and working groups including external organisations such as the AHDB, APHA and the HTA.
Other key performance areas include managing workloads using bespoke/off-shelf decision support
software and databases; setting and reviewing cost budgets; health, safety and security; working with
internal departments on accreditation and assurance schemes, e.g. BOPP and LEAF. You must also maintain and
develop relevant qualifications e.g. BASIS, FACTS, PA1&6 , first aid.
The Candidate
For this role they are looking for someone who has previous experience within the commercial growing sector and ideally you will be educated to degree level and hold BASIS and FACTS qualifications combined with a proven track record in senior management.
To apply for this role click here
|
|
Garden Centre General Manager (ref:DS8731)
Location: Essex
Salary: Excellent
Date: 05 Oct
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
Are you an ambitious and inspirational manager with a proven track record in delivering high levels of commercial performance within a large aspirational retail environment? If you are then our client is looking for a candidate just like you to run one of their leading garden centres.
Sited in Essex this traditional garden centre originally started life as a family-run nursery and our client now has ambitious plans to transform this site from its current format, which generates £3m in sales per year, into a purpose built Garden and Living Centre capable of generating £10m+. This new centre is due to be developed during 2017/18 and once completed it will offer customers a truly unique retail experience, showcasing the very best in garden and home living products. With our clients unique store design, product range and exceptional standards in visual merchandising, they will be the destination garden centre for North London.
In line with these developments they now have an exciting opportunity for a strong and inspirational retailer to manage and lead this centre in its current format, through its re-development and onwards.
Can you offer their customers a truly unique retail experience in an aspirational environment where they can enjoy engaging with and buying fantastic products and receive exceptional customer service?
Are you the dynamic and retail focused Centre Manager who can lead and develop a dedicated team?
You will have a fantastic opportunity to take full advantage of the redevelopment to ensure the team and the Centre reaches its maximum potential. They empower all of their Centre Managers to manage their centres as though they were your own businesses whilst enjoying full support from Head Office. As Centre Manager you will be responsible for all aspects of the centre including:
- Driving sales and maximising profit in order to consistently meet your KPIs .
- You will deliver exceptional standards of customer service.
- You will identify trends in sales and profit opportunities and you will translate these into sound retail action points.
- You will be at the helm leading, developing and motivating your team with a clear focus on driving exceptional performance and managing all controllable costs.
- You will ensure high standards of stock management and control are constantly maintained.
- And you will carry out daily floor walks of every department.
- You will understand and be able to easily connect with their AB1 customer demographic with an ability to ensure that retail standards and service levels constantly exceed their expectations.
If you are interested in this opportunity then please send your CV to us to discuss this opportunity further.
To apply for this role click here
|
|
Garden Sundries Retail Manager | Berkshire (ref:DS8711)
Location: Berkshire
Salary: £18,000 - £20,000
Date: 26 Oct
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
We are currently seeking an outstanding Garden Sundries Retail Manager to manage the Shop Area of this Berkshire based garden centre that are part of a Nationwide group that are continually growing and developing their leading garden centres across England and Wales.
The Role
This is an exciting opportunity to join a cutting edge Garden Sundries Department. The ideal candidate will have a background in seasonal products or garden centre retail with excellent garden sundries product knowledge from seeds to clothing. They will manage seasonal changes and have the ability to present and merchandise their department to the highest standard.
The Candidate
Team leadership skills are essential as is the ability to communicate well with customers delivering excellent standards of customer care. Working in a busy retail team environment means you will have to have a hands-on approach to all duties within this department.
Candidates must have a background in retail, be able to merchandise and manage rapidly changing stock.
Knowledge of garden products and garden chemicals etc. would also be an advantage but additional training can be given.
If you are passionate about garden sundries and would enjoy sharing this enthusiasm with our client's customers, we would love to hear from you.
To apply for this role click here
|
|
Nursery Grower Manager (ref:DS8768)
Location: Surrey
Salary: £35,000 - £40,000
Date: 21 Oct
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
Based on a 30 acre site in Surrey this quality driven nursery company buys, grows and supplies a stunning range of plants for sale direct to the consumer and also through to leading supermarket. They have a great reputation in the industry and have won over 20 Gold Medals at the Chelsea Flower Show. They are currently looking to recruit a Nursery Manager, Grower Manager with a good track record of producing quality stock and managing and inspiring a strong team.
The successful candidate will require the following skills;
- Strong commercial growing background preferably from within the Hardy Nursery Stock sector.
- Experience of planning and coordinating nursery production.
- Experience of managing and supervising staff.
- Hands-on, can-do attitude
- Strong communication skills
- A commitment to quality.
- The ability to prioritise tasks.
- A strong level of plant knowledge.
- Good IT skills
- Pesticide qualifications (PA1 & PA6)
- The ability to show initiative.
- A desire to develop within an innovative and growing business.
- Knowledge of irrigation systems
- A driven and positive leader who can inspire and manage a dedicated team.
They are happy to look at candidates from strong commercial production as well as large plant retailing backgrounds.
To apply for this role click here
|
|
|
|
|
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: http://tgcmc.newsweaver.co.uk/gtnxtra/7rulj2yio7x?a=6&p=49514304&t=20355005
The Top 6 Bestselling plants – Pansies, Cyclamen, Erysimum, Viola, Calluna and Primula – remain the same this week, contributing over 50% of all plant sales.
Their cumulative sales dropped by 12% week on week against all plant sales slipping by 14%.
- Matthiola – stocks moved 22 places up the chart to No 27.
- The biggest percentage increase went to Santolina to enter the chart at No 26.
- Ornamental Brassicas increased sales by 57% to enter the Top 10 for the first time.
HTA relocates to Oxfordshire
The HTA has moved into its new offices and the new address is Horticulture House, Chilton, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 0RN. The main contact number for member enquiries and orders is 0333 003 3550 (8.30-5.30 Mon-Thurs and 8.30-5 Fri).
The HTA has moved into its new offices and the new address is Horticulture House, Chilton, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 0RN. The main contact number for member enquiries and orders is 0333 003 3550 (8.30-5.30 Mon-Thurs and 8.30-5 Fri).
Alongside the light and airy office space for staff and partner organisations on the first floor Horticulture House provides a great facility which is available for the industry to use (at preferential rates for HTA members). In addition to a members’ lounge (available for use free of charge) there are six meeting rooms, showroom space and a conference room (seats 100) available. Newly refurbished and with a modern décor these will be ideal for client meetings, training workshops, product launches and regional roadshows.
HTA Chief Executive Carol Paris comments, “We are up and running in our new premises which provide a great facility for the organization and the industry. We are delighted that the AIPH (International Association of Horticultural Producers) and CIH (Chartered Institute of Horticulture) have moved with us and GCA will have a meeting room at Horticulture House – making it a real horticultural hub and vibrant space for the industry.”
She adds, “In our first week alone we have hosted the Garden Industry Marketing Board, APL Awards judging, Amenity Suppliers and BOPP Committee meetings to name but a few! We also hosted the planting of a Bramley apple tree (and accompanying crab apple) to mark the 25th anniversary of the European Nurserystock Association (ENA) – not bad going for week one!”
There are a couple of opportunities coming up to view the facilities.
Firstly, there will be a manufacturers/suppliers open day over the coming weeks where you are welcome to pop by and find out more about a look at the facilities available to hire.
The HTA AGM will take place on Tuesday 6 December at Horticulture House at 11.30 am. AGM papers will be available on the HTA website in November – www.hta.org.uk/htaagm2016.
To register interest in receiving further information about the facilities, rates and the open day please email bookings@hta.org.uk
Pictured: Atree planting ceremony to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the European Nursery Stock Association was the first event to take place at the new HTA offices.
|
|
Christmas sales are booming this month
Christmas sales are booming in October – up 33% on last year, and Christmas Mugs have usurped Personalised Christmas Baubles to take the No 1 Christmas Besteller spot. A washable Christmas doormat also storms into the Top 5...
Christmas sales are booming in October – up 33% on last year, and Christmas Mugs have usurped Personalised Christmas Baubles to take the No 1 Christmas Besteller spot.
A washable Christmas doormat also storms into the Top 5. There’s also a ‘Bake-off’ influence with square Christmas cake boards joining round ones in the Top 50. Here are the highlights:
- Kaemingk Christmas Porcelain Mug with Spoon and Chocolate Grater was the highest new entry.
- Culpitt 10 inch Round Christmas Cake Board was the highest re-entry.
- JVL Christmas Machine Washable Doormat is at No 4.
|
|
Orchid related products and garden lighting continue to dominate the GTN Bestsellers Garden Products chart, contributing 24% and 20% of the Top 50 sales volumes.
First signs of frosts in the north see fleece lines increase sales and at the bottom of the chart traditional Autumn planting related products are starting to accelerate.
The main highlights this week were:
- Growth Technology Orchid Pot Clear 15cm was the highest re-entry at No 11.
- Creative Products Clean Sweep Rubber Broom, jumping 31 places to No 10.
- Gardman Solar Filigree Table Light LED Colour Changing and Gardman Gard ‘n’ Fleece Bags (Assorted Sizes) Green returned to the Top 50.
- Fito Drip Feeder For Orchids 32ml retained the top spot.
Vote for Thrive to win £25,000
Two gardening projects run by disability charity Thrive need votes to win up to £25,000 from the Aviva Community Fund...
Two gardening projects run by disability charity Thrive need votes to win up to £25,000 from the Aviva Community Fund.
Thrive uses gardening to bring about positive changes in the lives of people living with disabilities or ill health, or who are isolated, disadvantaged or vulnerable. This structured process is called social and therapeutic horticulture and comes under the wider umbrella of ‘green care’.
In Berkshire, the charity runs Trunkwell Garden Project set in a Victorian walled garden amongst beautiful countryside. Horticultural therapists and volunteers work with more than 100 disabled people ranging in age from 14 to 70 years. Thrive client gardeners may have learning disabilities, mental health needs including dementia, a physical disability or a sensory disability such as visual or hearing impairment.
Similarly in Battersea, Thrive works with more than 80 people over the age of 18 using gardening as a wonderfully flexible medium that can transform lives. Thrive sees first-hand how gardening can help everyone, regardless of age or disability.
Social and therapeutic horticulture is the process of using plants and gardens to improve physical and mental health, as well as communication and thinking skills. It also uses the garden as a safe and secure place to develop someone's ability to mix socially, make friends and learn practical skills that will help them to be more independent.
Using gardening tasks and the garden itself, Thrive’s horticultural therapists build a set of activities for each gardener to improve their particular health needs, and to work on certain goals they want to achieve.
Beyond the walled garden in Berkshire is the allotment which is used to grow a range of fruit and vegetables. However, the allotment and composting area is on a steep gradient making access extremely difficult and in some cases impossible for some gardeners.
The funding would allow Thrive to build a fully accessible pathway to the allotment plot and level our compost areas meaning many more of our gardeners can access and gain the benefits of this wonderful space.
In Battersea the money would go towards supporting the ‘Gardening for Good Health’ project which enables Londoners living with life-changing health conditions to experience the joy of gardening and increase the confidence to regain or maintain an active, healthy and independent life.
The funding will enable four 12-week programmes to take place over one year, with each supporting 8 client gardeners. At the end of each programme client gardeners are offered the opportunity to provide voluntary support for subsequent programmes and signposting to other community gardens.
Please take a few minutes to register with Aviva (they just need your name and email) and then cast your ten votes.
VOTE HERE: https://community-fund.aviva.co.uk/voting/project/view/16-2399
VOTE HERE: https://community-fund.aviva.co.uk/voting/project/view/16-1697
Voting closes on Friday November 18th.
|
|
The great October gardening weather is encouraging plenty of planting, replanting and re-potting activity. As a result October sales of the Top 50 GTN Bestsellers Growing Media products are up 12% on last year, which was a record in itself.
This week’s highlights were:
- Kelkay RHS Horticultural Potting Grit was the highest re-entry at No 34.
- Westland John Innes No3 Mature Plants (35 litres) was the highest climber, jumping 18 places to No 24.
- Scotts Levington Multipurpose + John Innes (56 litres) retained the top spot.
|
|
|
|
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 printed newsletter.
As the year goes on we give sales volume comparisons with 2014 as well as 2015 to allow your teams to see variations over a three year period. Access is by subscription only. For £195.00 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 01733 775700, e-mail karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or buy on-line using this link.
Highlights of the GTN Garden Products Bestsellers chart for this week are here
Highlights of the GTN Garden Plants Bestsellers chart for this week are here
Highlights of the GTN Christmas Products Bestsellers chart for this week are here
Highlights of the GTN Growing Media Bestsellers chart for this week are here WARNING the GTN Bestsellers Charts seriously improve the business of our subscribers. Invest 15 minutes each week in improving your sales using the GTN Bestsellers charts and your turnover and customer satisfaction will improve too.
|
|
Get the GTN Bestsellers charts in full every week in the GTN Bestsellers newsletters delivered via the post for only £195.00.
GTN Bestsellers is the only industry source of weekly garden centre sales information, collating Epos data from centres with an aggregate turnover in excess of £120m.
Use the weekly Garden Products and Growing Media Top 50 sales volumes charts to plan your hotspot and other promotions and ensure you have the right products in stock to satisfy the needs of your customers.
For further information contact karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk or call 01733 775700.
Buy your subscription today and start receiveing the GTN Bestsellers charts this week.
|
|
|
All the latest news from the world of garden centre catering
Entries open for Casual Dining Restaurant & Pub Awards
The Casual Dining Restaurant & Pub Awards, organised by Diversified Communications UK, is now accepting entries for 2017. Launched in 2016, the awards recognise and celebrate the standout restaurant and pub operators of the year across the growing multi-billion pound casual dining sector.
The Casual Dining Restaurant & Pub Awards, organised by Diversified Communications UK, is now accepting entries for 2017.
Launched in 2016, the awards recognise and celebrate the standout restaurant and pub operators of the year across the growing multi-billion pound casual dining sector.
Due to unanimously positive feedback, and a long waiting list of attendees and sponsors, these important awards are moving to a new, bigger venue – Marriot London Grosvenor Square – for 2017.
“We were delighted with the response to the first Casual Dining Restaurant & Pub Awards. It really was a highlight of the year for many operators and their teams who deserve to be recognised and celebrated. I’m pleased to announce that following feedback from our judging panel of industry leaders, the second annual awards will be even bigger, better and a great way to celebrate with clients and colleagues. Thanks to all the judges and sponsors for their support,” says Chris Brazier, group event director, Casual Dining.
The 2017 judging panel features some of the biggest names in the sector, including Karen Forrester, CEO of TGI Friday’s UK; Jane Holbrook, COO at wagamama; Mark Fox, CEO of Bills; Keith Bird, COO at GBK; Garry Duncan, operations director at Nandos; and Kate Nicholls, chief executive of The Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers.
Commenting on the awards, Mark Fox says: “The Casual Dining Restaurant & Pub Awards is a unique event to celebrate all that’s great in Britain’s fastest growing food sector.”
"The inaugural awards helped to foster a sense of community and identify outstanding achievement,” says returning judge Ian Neill. “I think we have something special to look forward to with the 2017 Casual Dining Restaurant & Pub Awards."
Multiple and independent casual dining restaurants, pubs and bars are encouraged to submit their entries online at www.cdawards.co.uk. Submissions are already flooding in and the final deadline for entries is Friday 25 November 2016.
There are 15 categories in all, including three new awards – for community engagement, sustainability and environmental practices, and menu innovation. Confirmed sponsors already include Reynolds, Lamb Weston, Budvar, Chef Direct, Bar Foods and McCain, with more to be announced shortly. The evening starts with the ‘Trailblazer of the Year’ Award, which has been nominated by the judges.The 2017 award categories are: - Trailblazer of the Year (nominated by the judging panel) – sponsored by Lamb Weston
- New Casual Dining Concept of the Year
- Casual Dining Community Award (new for 2017)
- Casual Dining Green Award (new for 2017)
- Casual Dining Marketing Campaign – sponsored by Chef Direct
- Best Designed Independent Casual Dining Restaurant
- Best Designed Multiple Casual Dining Restaurant
- Best Designed Casual Dining Pub or Bar
- Independent Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year
- Independent Casual Dining Pub of the Year – sponsored by Budvar
- Small Casual Dining Employer of the Year (under 50 employees)
- Large Casual Dining Employer of the Year (50 employees or more) – sponsored by Reynolds
- Menu Innovation Award (new for 2017)
- Multiple Casual Dining Pub Brand of the Year – sponsored by McCain
- Multiple Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year – sponsored by Bar Foods
The full list of 2017 judges includes (in alphabetical order): - Peter Backman, MD of Horizons
- Lizzie Barber, head of marketing at Cabana
- Keith Bird, chief operator officer at Gourmet Burger Kitchen
- Chris Brazier, group event director of Casual Dining
- Paul Charity, MD of Propel
- Scott Collins, co-founder and MD of Meat Liquor
- Garry Duncan, operations director at Nandos
- Karen Forrester, CEO of TGI Friday’s UK
- Mark Fox, CEO of Bills
- Jane Holbrook, chief operating officer at wagamama
- Aforditi Krassa, founder of Aforditi Krassa
- Peter Martin, VP of CGA Peach
- Mark McCulloch, founder and CEO of We Are Spectacular
- Ian Neill, industry pioneer and chairman of K10 Restaurants
- Joyselyn Neve, MD of Seafood Pub Co
- Kate Nicholls, chief executive of ALMR
- Tina Norden, project director at Conran & Partners
- Tony Reynolds, MD of Reynolds
- Brian Whiting, owner of Whiting & Hammond
- Lorraine Wood, director of Arena
- David Worthington, independent design consultant
The awards ceremony will take place on the evening of 22 February 2017 at the London Marriott Hotel, in Grosvenor Square, following the first day of the Casual Dining trade show.
For further information, to enter or to book tables visit www.cdawards.co.uk.
 Save the date for Casual Dining 2017
Casual Dining – the UK’s only dedicated trade event for casual dining operators (including multiple and independent pubs, bars and restaurants), has opened its visitor registration for 2017. The multi-award winning event returns to the Business Design Centre in London on 22-23 February 2017.
“The Casual Dining show is the two days a year when our sector gets together. It’s an essential forum for sharing new ideas, innovations and insights,” says Simon Kossoff, co-founder of Carluccio’s.
“Casual Dining show is great for catching up with my key suppliers, all under one roof, coupled with some great newcomers with challenging ideas and innovation – what’s not to like,” says Mark Rush, head of food innovation at Revolution Bars Group.
For more information, and to stay up-to-date with all the latest news and exhibitor information, please visit www.casualdiningshow.co.uk
|
|
 As the Great British Bake Off TV show on BBC 1 comes to an end, Dobbies is giving its customers a chance to become their ‘Star Baker!’
Keen cooks are being asked to put their GBBO knowledge to the test and submit their speciality Christmas recipe to Dobbies, to win the chance for their signature festive bake to go on sale in the garden centre’s restaurant... and receive tasty afternoon tea for two*.
"The winning Christmas bake will be on sale from Friday 2nd – Sunday 4th December, with all proceeds donated to our National Charity Partner, Teenage Cancer Trust," said the company.
"All you need to do is send us a short description of your bake along with the list of ingredients. The restaurant manager, with the support of our in-store baker, at your local Dobbies store will then choose who to crown their festive star baker. If you have a picture, don’t forget to include that too!
"Being Dobbies, bonus points will go to those who give their bake a horticultural twist – think holly leaf decorations, sage infused crumbles, or even thyme and lemon frosting – the more creative, the better.
*Birtley, Westerwood, Kinross, Grovelands and Dalgety Bay: due to kitchen limitations at these store, an alternative prize will be offered.
To enter, send your Christmas recipe to mychristmasbake@dobbies.com.
Entries for the competition close on November 14 and winners will be announced the following week. Full details on the competition can be found at www.dobbies.com/christmas/mychristmasbake/.
|
|
|
|
|
