Garden Centres close to pay our respects and thank Her Majesty the Queen
Garden centres across the country will be closed on Monday 19th September 2022 as we pay our respects to Her Majesty the Queen.
In London, thousands of people have been queuing for hours to file past her coffin while lying in state. Amongst them was Ian Flounders of Woodlodge who had the privilege of meeting King Charles III on Saturday afternoon when the King and Prince William spent time meeting with the people queuing on the south bank of the Thames.
Horticulture 2030 was the theme of the HTA Conference held at the ICC in Birmingham last week.
HTA Chairman James Barnes opened the day with a plea to government to change ornamental horticulture to environmental horticulture to make it more relevant for the current agenda and perhaps more attractive as a career for young people. He said that garden retailers should congratulate themselves on becoming the retail destinations of choice for now and the future. With new technology and government help he sees an optimistic green growth agenda.
After a day of presentations from research consultants, senior economists, award winning Chelsea designers, renowned TV documentary presenter Simon Reeve and influencers Tayshan Hayden-Smith and The Plant Geek, Michael Perry, TV Gardener Arit Andersen and HTA Immediate Past President Boyd Douglas-Davies summed up the day.
At the after conference dinner, also held in the ICC, the first ever Grower of the Year Awards were presented.
Young Plant Grower of the Year: Ball Colegrave Finished Plant Grower of the Year: Allensmore Inspirational Business of the Year: Palmstead Young Grower of the Year Elliot Barden, Majestic Trees Staff Member of the Year: Gareth Edwards, New Leaf Plants
See GTN Xtra's photo gallery from the conference and the awards below and read more about the conference content in the October issue of GTN magazine.
Corby & Fellas are thrilled to announce that Raemoir Garden Centre, based in Banchory, Aberdeenshire, have chosen WinRetail...
Corby & Fellas are thrilled to announce that Raemoir Garden Centre, based in Banchory, Aberdeenshire, have chosen WinRetail.
Raemoir Garden Centre, which is one of the leading garden centres in Aberdeenshire, implemented C+F’s powerful WinRetail Stock Control and Retail Management System in August 2022, and are now beginning to benefit from the wealth of information that they can glean from the system and the level of control that it gives them.
Raemoir Garden Centre have been growing their business for over 30 years and felt that the time was right to invest in the digital side of their business. Upgrading their existing EPOS system and implementing new digital marketing plans, to deliver greater efficiencies whilst improving customer service levels.
The management team are certain the new system will unlock many new sales opportunities and will deliver future growth plans. Given the diversity of stock from Gift, Gardening to Catering they felt that we were the perfect partner for them.
In addition to the WinRetail Core System, Raemoir have implemented the fully integrated Restaurant table service application, which Raemoir have said has been an easy and seamless transition and will be activating the WinRetail to Shopify API next month.
This takes Corby + Fellas Garden Centre businesses to 57 across the UK and Ireland, with a further 8 GC businesses scheduled to be implemented until June 2023.
UK Greetings is one of the largest direct-to-retailer publishers of greeting cards in the UK, producing innovative, award-winning greetings cards, gift dressings and social expressions products.
We are UK Greetings, one of the largest direct to retailer publishers of greeting cards in the UK. We produce innovative, award-winning greetings cards, gift dressings and social expressions products. We supply all sectors from small Independents to large multiples including Garden Centres, supplying this year’s Retas award winner for the ‘Best Garden Centre Retailer of Greeting Cards’ category!
We are completely focussed on customer service, winning ‘Best Service to the Independent Retailer’ award winner for 11 consecutive years, something we are extremely proud of!
We believe ‘one size doesn’t fit all’ and carefully curate our product displays to cater for customers ever differing needs. Our Homegrown initiative is the perfect example of how we have done this, specifically tailored to garden centre shoppers.
Homegrown offers a comprehensive display planning service including product brokerage, a quick and easy one stop solution ensuring your displays are filled with the most sought-after designs, full display sales analysis and an excellent merchandising service! Its modern and stylised display units offer a perfect showcase solution for our distinct and established brands which have been developed with the differing consumer lifestyle choices in mind, as well as offering a differentiated retail solution.
To learn more about what we can offer your business, make sure to visit our website, or get in touch. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Wyevale Nurseries has started work on a new reservoir to help it capture, save and recycle more water...
A leading British commercial nursery has started work on a new reservoir to help it capture, save and recycle more water.
Wyevale Nurseries is creating its new water conservation and storage system at its King’s Acre container site as part of its ongoing sustainability plans and annual environmental targets.
Steve Reed, Production Director, Container Division, says: “As water becomes an increasingly fragile resource, we’re delighted to be installing this new reservoir to secure our long-term future. We currently recycle 34% of our water and are building this reservoir to dramatically improve this percentage.
“As part of our annual ISO 14001 environmental accreditation, we have regular targets for recycling water and we’re at our maximum. Our last two years figures are similar, averaging at around 35,000 m³, which is still about 14 Olympic-sized swimming pools, but we are going to increase that figure with the extra storage.
“In order to recycle more water, we need the new reservoir and gained planning permission to build one just before the pandemic hit, but we’ve only just been able to start work now. It’ll be fully lined and hold 20,000 m³ of water when full.
“It will also help us increase our water recycling ability from run-off from structures when we have rain and reduce our reliance on our onsite boreholes. It’s connected to our Container Tree Production site, which means we’ve already had to lay pipe under two roads in readiness for when the reservoir is working and in action.
“We’re proud holders of our ISO 14001 environmental accreditation and are always looking at ways of improving and innovating with regards our water conservation.”
ISO 14001 is an internationally accredited standard outlining how organisations can put an effective Environmental Management System (ESM) in place.
It’s designed to help businesses remain commercially successful without overlooking environmental responsibilities and impacts.
It can also help firms develop sustainably while reducing the environmental impact of their growth.
Wyevale Nurseries’ product selection is envied across the industry and the talented team regularly introduces new, award-winning plant varieties.
Its main business is to supply garden centres, landscape contractors, local authorities, foresters and landowners with a comprehensive array of trees, shrubs, hedging, herbaceous and specimen plants.
For further details about Wyevale Nurseries, which is based in Hereford, please call 01432 845 200 or visit www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk.
The Real Soil Company explains how it will meet the new Government legislation for amateur gardeners and help save the environment for future generations...
The Real Soil Company explains how it will meet the new Government legislation for amateur gardeners and help save the environment for future generations...
On 27th August 2022, in a press release issued jointly by Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, Natural England and The Rt Hon Lord Benyon, the UK Government announced that the sale of horticultural peat for use in the amateur gardening sector will be banned by 2024.
The new legislation is being implemented to prevent further degradation to the UK’s largest, but rapidly diminishing, natural carbon store – our native peatlands – and to help preserve our uniquely beautiful landscapes for future generations.
When it comes to natural peat free topsoil The Real Soil Company has been leagues ahead of many other UK soil producers, with its range of vegan-friendly topsoils that are specially enhanced with ethically sourced organic components. Not only do the original SuperSoil, Vegetable & Fruit Topsoil and SuperLawn already appeal to discerning amateur gardeners seeking environmentally-friendly growing media, they perfectly meet new legislation well ahead of the 2024 peat ban.
Already an improvement on the BS3882 standards for compliance and reliability, The Real Soil Company brings 100% natural ingredients and material traceability to its entire range. The natural boosters, which make The Real Soil Company’s portfolio of products such horticultural heroes, also provide quicker plant establishment, better moisture retention and improved resilience against pests and disease, whilst also delivering enough nutritional enhancement to bring a higher crop yield to edibles.
The Real Soil Company MD, Simon Hedley, said: “Consumer demand for eco-friendly growing media has been steadily building over the past two years and is now at an all-time high.
This will continue to rise ahead of the 2024 ban on peat-based soil and compost for amateur gardeners and we are perfectly placed to serve the needs of all the British growers who want to maintain crop performance whilst meeting the new peat-free requirements. Garden centres and nurseries who are nervous about the impending ban or those that lack a true understanding that most soils presently available in garden centres are manufactured substitute products using waste or poor-quality peat as the organic ameliorant, can rest assured that they won’t have to compromise on quality or performance with The Real Soil Company products. Peat free is the right way to go for our industry and the environment.”
Fleuroselect members submitted no less than 70 varieties of Cucurbita pepo into the ‘Year of the Courgette’ trials in 2021. These were held last year at two Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) gardens in Bridgewater and Rosemoor in the UK...
Fleuroselect members submitted no less than 70 varieties of Cucurbita pepo into the ‘Year of the Courgette’ trials in 2021. These were held last year at two Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) gardens in Bridgewater and Rosemoor in the UK.
The main varieties trialled were the bush types which are firm favourites with the home gardener and allotment owner. They come in various sizes, shapes and colours, from elongated to round and from yellow to green, and even feature striped versions. Courgette flowers are also becoming increasing popular as ornamental edibles.
The trial was planted in a number of beds throughout the gardens and was prominently on view for the visiting public throughout the season.
After careful judging by the RHS technical committee, the following varieties were awarded the coveted RHS Award of Garden Merit:
Cucurbita pepo Syros F1 - Dobies (part of the Thompson & Morgen group) – Good shape and colour on uniform plants. Has the potential for showing.
Cucurbita pepo Lorea F1 - HM.Clause - Nice compact plants and one of the first to fruit.
Cucurbita pepo Brice F1 - Syngenta Flowers – Attractive, quite compact plants. Nice round fruits. Performed well even in the shade.
The following varieties were re-confirmed as retaining their RHS Award of Garden Merit Status:
Cucurbita pepo Tuscany - Mr Fothergill’s Seeds & DT Brown
Cucurbita pepo Parador - Thompson & Morgan
The judges were particularly impressed by Cucurbita pepo Orelia, confirming that it is indeed one of the best existing varieties currently holding the Award of Garden Merit.
The main criteria for judging were yield, size, shape, colour, uniformity, mildew resistance and ease of picking.
'Plant of the Year' Campaign
Starting in 2015, Fleuroselect annually nominates a flower and vegetable of the year in the ‘Plant of the Year’ campaign. The intention of this campaign is to raise awareness of specific crops for home gardening, while showing the wide choice of varieties available to the consumer. The current ‘Plant of the Year’ crops in 2022 are Poppy and Basil.
'Year of the Salvia and Sage'
In 2023, Fleuroselect will introduce the 'Year of the Salvia and Sage'. Fleuroselect members will soon receive an invitation to submit their varieties. Extensive displays will be planted in renowned public gardens where consumers can enjoy the diversity of this species. Accompanying information will be rolled out when the 2023 promotion initiative kicks off.
This year’s GIMA Awards are fast approaching (20th October, Celtic Manor) and, as always, the event is only possible due to the incredible support of the industry it represents, including a host of sponsors made up of manufacturers, suppliers and media representatives...
This year’s GIMA Awards are fast approaching (20th October, Celtic Manor) and, as always, the event is only possible due to the incredible support of the industry it represents, including a host of sponsors made up of manufacturers, suppliers and media representatives.
From champagne for the winners to the table and pre-dinner drinks, raffle prizes and category sponsors, this year’s roster is testament to the generosity of those that support the awards every year.
Hot on the heels of its first ever June edition of the exhibition, Glee – the leading trade exhibition for the garden retail sector - has once again confirmed its role as headline sponsor of the GIMA Awards.
Matthew Mein, Glee Event Director, said: “We have been headline sponsors of the GIMA Awards for many years, and long may it continue. A true celebration of the best our industry has to offer, the gala dinner is a highlight of the annual events calendar, and we’re proud to be part of it.”
Category sponsors will include Decco, who will be sponsoring the Garden Care category, and eBay, who will be a category sponsor as well as sponsoring this year’s table drinks. As always, the GCA and Gardenex will be sponsoring the Supplier of the Year and Export Achievement Awards, respectively, with the HTA sponsoring the Sustainability Award for the first time
Keeping guests entertained between courses will be the Hozelock sponsored Table raffles, whilst the main charity raffle be sponsored by recruitment specialists,MorePeople. Both raffles will be raising funds for the Greenfingers Charity, helping them to continue to build therapeutic spaces at children’s hospices across the UK.
Pre-dinner drinks will also be kindly supported by sponsors EP Barrus, Primeur, CJ Wildlife and 2021 GCA Supplier of the Year, Meadow View Stone.
Other sponsors will include Capi Europe, sponsors of this year’s table decorations; CM Ventures, who have kindly supplied all the 2022 GIMA Awards marketing collateral; and Hornby Whitefoot PR, sponsors of the winner’s champagne. 2022 media sponsors will be Garden Trade News (GTN) and Garden Radio, Gardenforum and Garden Centre Retail.
GIMA Director, Vicky Nuttall, said: “A HUGE thank you to all our 2022 sponsors. As always, your generosity and ongoing support of the awards continues to help make the evening what it is, and I’ve no doubt that this year’s event will be a truly glittering night of celebration.”
Book your place now!
With just short of 500 people in attendance, the 2021 event was a sell-out in record time. GIMA is urging interested parties to secure their tickets for the 2022 event now as only a few tickets are left remaining.
Prices for GIMA members: £329 + VAT per person, or £3,099 + VAT for a table of 10, whilst non-member costs are: Non-Members: £399 + VAT per person, or £3,799 + VAT for a table of 10 (all costs include dinner and accommodation).
Find out more
For further information about GIMA and its wide range of member benefits, please contact the GIMA Press Office on (01959) 564947 or info@gima.org.uk
Hundreds of pet product manufacturers have confirmed there is only one place to be this September…and that’s exhibiting at PATS Telford...
Hundreds of pet product manufacturers have confirmed there is only one place to be this September…and that’s exhibiting at PATS Telford.
The showpiece event, taking place on Sunday, September 25, and Monday, September 26, will be packed solid with the pet industry’s leading firms and brands eager to exhibit their products and services to visiting UK and international buyers.
The mood is one of eager anticipation as the biggest-ever PATS Telford moves closer.
So why should buyers from pet stores and garden centres attend this year’s PATS Telford?
Here’s what visitors can expect:
More than 230 exhibitors
50-plus companies exhibiting at PATS Telford for the first time
All the latest pet product launches under one roof
Top class demonstrations from professional groomers
Unrivalled show offers and competitions
New for 2022 a free breakfast or lunch voucher for every visitor
“There is a tremendous buzz surrounding the show,” said organiser Gordon Thomas. “So much is happening at PATS Telford over both days of the exhibition, it really is a must-visit event for retailers and buyers. You won’t be disappointed.
“All the latest new product launches will be unveiled and there will be great workshops from the country’s top groomers. I can promise it will be a great buying experience so make sure you travel to Telford and attend the biggest pet industry exhibition for years.”
One of the major successes at PATS shows over the years has been the New Product Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews. This year a record number of new products – 332 in total – will be on show in the designated area. From all the entries, a panel of independent retailers will decide the winners of the prestigious New Product Awards.
Parking is free at the Telford International Centre, and everyone will receive free tea and coffee, and a free show catalogue.
PATS Telford is definitely THE place to be this September so make sure you register for free entry to the show at www.patshow.co.uk where you’ll also find a full list of exhibitors.
The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation, who support students studying Horticulture at UK colleges and universities, has announced the opening of the application season for scholarships...
The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation, who support students studying Horticulture at UK colleges and universities, has announced the opening of the application season for scholarships.
As a student, whether you need some financial support to help with costs of living, purchase of course materials, fees, travel costs or something as specific as the purchase of a new laptop, there is probably a scholarship that applies to your situation.
To be eligible for consideration and successful in being granted a scholarship, students need to demonstrate their passion for horticulture and their commitment to making a career within the industry through their application. In addition to the basic contact details, some background information on your college, course and what interests you in the particular branch of horticulture you have chosen to study is required.
The wide variety of scholarships cover sectors including plant science, research, environmental study and technical research as well as more general horticultural studies. There are also scholarships specific to students interested in bedding and ornamental plant production or specialist tree production with Majestic Trees.
Scholarships values vary from a few hundred to a few thousand pounds and applications are straight forward to make. A number of organisations support scholarships, such as:
Blue Diamond, the inspirational home, garden and living centres, with outlets across the UK;
Ball Horticulture, the UK’s leading wholesale distributor of seed and plants to commercial growers and local authorities;
Majestic Trees, the award winning grower specialising in the supply and planting of mature and character trees;
British Protected Ornamentals Association [BPOA], representing the UK bedding & pot plant industry
Full details are on the Foundation website along with important information relating to the wide variety of scholarships which are available to students, either those studying part or full time. In addition, there are hints and tips on making your application, which is done on-line. Applications can be submitted between now and the 31st of January 2023 for awards which will be made in March 2023.
Ask your college tutor or student representative for your course about the opportunities for you or for further information visit the Colegrave Seabrook Foundation website www.colegraveseabroofoundation.org.uk
Approaching 100 distinguished guests, from the worlds of landscaping and horticulture gathered at the premises of TASK, the new landscape training academy near Pershore, Worcestershire...
Approaching 100 distinguished guests, from the worlds of landscaping and horticulture gathered at the premises of TASK, the new landscape training academy near Pershore, Worcestershire.
Guests were invited, on the 10th September, to view the purpose built facilities which include indoor and outdoor class rooms, building areas, offices and student facilities, and to see a commemorative plaque unveiled to mark the launch by TV gardener, Frances Tophill.
TASK [Training, Academy, Skills, Knowledge] founded by Rupert Keys, a highly respected landscaper who has built his reputation in the horticultural industry over the past 30 years, including creating many award winning show gardens at some of the top gardening shows in the country.
Through practical, hands on learning days, in small groups, spanning one to four days, students, some new into the sector and many already working in landscaping can hone their skills in all aspects of landscape work. Currently courses include bricklaying, deck installation, laying block and porcelain paving, dry stone walling and garden design. Run by multi award-winning professional, Rupert with a specially curated cohort of industry professionals, the training is supported by APL (Association of Professional Landscapers). The TASK Academy offers a broad range of LANTRA accredited landscaping courses, some of which are also available to the public who want to tackle their own DIY tasks.
Rupert said: “As a team, we have a huge range of experience within the industry and we’re keen to share that with students and employers to address the industry skills gap. Our focus is to improve the expertise of current and future generations to ensure the standards and longevity of our industry”
Like all sectors of horticulture, landscaping is struggling to find sufficient skilled professionals, and as colleges struggle to attract students, the industry is finding the best solution is to ‘train your own’. We have seen GCA members do it with their highly successful GROW (Garden Retail Online Workshop), Wyevale Nurseries who have set up their own training scheme to grow their own future staff and Majestic Trees have set up an in-house apprentice scheme.
Of course, all of these are still reliant on attracting the best people into the sector in the first place. As an industry we need to change the public image young people, their teachers and parents have of careers in horticulture. We need them to realise the value of the profession, and that fun, financially secure and worthwhile opportunities, across all avenues of the industry, are open to young talent.
For those who want a beautifully manicured lawn with clear, crisp stripes, Webb's new eco-friendly cordless 40V self-propelled lawnmower with a rear roller makes it a quick, easy, and highly effective task...
For those who want a beautifully manicured lawn with clear, crisp stripes, Webb's new eco-friendly cordless 40V self-propelled lawnmower with a rear roller makes it a quick, easy, and highly effective task.
Supplied with two 4Ah 40V Lithium-Ion batteries, this Webb lawnmower delivers an impressive 40V of cutting power. With its 43 cm (17”) wide cut, durable ABS deck, six cutting heights ranging from 26-80mm, and self-propelled drive system with a fixed forward speed of 3.9 KM/H, you now won't have to spend time pushing the mower back and forth across the lawn; just push the lever towards the handles and away it goes.
Thanks to its superior technology, each battery can provide up to 20 minutes of life per charge - meaning plenty of time for cutting the lawn. The battery charger features a fast-charging 4Ah slot, so each 4Ah battery only takes 80 minutes to charge.
Grass clippings are gathered into a large 60-litre easy-fit fabric collection bag, which offers great airflow and ensures fewer trips to the compost heap. Alternatively, the grass clippings can be discharged to the rear or mulched.
Powerful yet at just 28 kg, lightweight, the Webb 40V Cordless Self-Propelled Lawnmower will prove to be an excellent purchase for those looking to swap out their electric or petrol-driven lawnmower.
For peace of mind, all Webb Garden Power products are covered with a two-year warranty.
“Webb is renowned for delivering high-quality products at sensible prices” states Steve Bartlett, Managing Director for Handy, which owns the Webb brand. “If you're searching for a quieter, eco-friendly yet powerful machine that has the capability of producing beautiful stripes on your lawn, look no further than the new Webb WERR17LISPX2 - perfect for any avid gardener out there.”
To discover more on the new Webb 40V self-propelled lawnmower rear roller, and to purchase direct, visit webbgardenpower.co.uk
Ivyline, a leading British supplier of home and giftware ranges, has broadened its product offering to incorporate a new lifestyle driven garden range, perfect for those gardeners that seek to include timeless, yet functional pieces to enhance their garden spaces...
As a brand synonymous with style and quality, it comes as no surprise that Ivyline, a leading British supplier of home and giftware ranges, has broadened its product offering to incorporate a new lifestyle driven garden range, perfect for those gardeners that seek to include timeless, yet functional pieces to enhance their garden spaces.
Ivyline’s first foray into grow-your-own was initially showcased at Glee 2022, where the range was soft-launched to gather retailer feedback. With positive responses coming from all corners of the industry, and with many praising Ivyline for creating such an aspirational yet easy-to-retail collection, the lifestyle garden collection will now be brought to market in February 2023, perfectly timed to maximise spring sales.
The new collection features a highly curated range of garden products including plant protection and supports, hanging baskets, and trellis. Each product benefits from a highly detailed handmade construction from either zinc or bronze - the latter providing a rustic patinaed look - providing choice for consumers based on their garden aesthetic. Frost resistant and benefitting from a two-year guarantee all products are built to last whilst bringing elegance and interesting structure to garden and allotment planting schemes.
Talking about the new grow-your-own offering, Ivyline’s Managing Director, Scott Thomas, said: “Products such as plant protection, plant support, trellis and hanging baskets are so often created to be functional at the detriment of style or design. Recognising this - and wanting to fill the gap at the upper end of the product hierarchy - we worked closely with artisans to create a carefully curated offering where functionality and style are on a par. This new lifestyle collection opens up a new product category within the grow-your-own market, helping retailers to elevate their offering whilst providing more choice for the more discerning shopper. It’s an exciting addition to the Ivyline offering and, we hope, the beginning of a new staple for our customers.”
Ivyline’s new handmade grow-your own offering will be available for delivery into store from February 2023. The current collection includes:
Wired Plant Protection in two size options (RRP from £39.99)
Wired Netted Plant Protection in two size options (RRP from £39.99)
Plant Supports in two size options (RRP from £34.99)
Fluted Plant Supports (RRP £44.99)
Honeycomb Trellis in two sizes options (RRP from £59.99)
Linear Trellis in two size options (RRP £59.99)
Cylinder Trellis in two size options (RRP £59.99)
Climber Tripod (RRP £49.99)
Hanging baskets in two styles (RRP from £34.99)
Find out more
To add Ivyline’s new lifestyle driven grow-your-own range to your retail offering in 2023 please contact the team to discuss your stocking needs via sales@ivylinegb.co.uk / 024 7633 9180.
Further details regarding Ivyline’s AW22 and SS23 collections can be found at www.ivylinegb.co.uk. A dedicated showroom at Ivyline’s HQ, Stoneleigh Park, is also open to buyers year-round. Please contact the team to book your next visit.
Outdoor battery-powered equipment specialist, EGO Power Plus, has expanded its range of blowers with the industry’s most powerful handheld blower to date. Outperforming other leading petrol-powered and battery blowers, the LB7650E enables a maximum propulsive force of 26n and a max airspeed of 195mph...
Outdoor battery-powered equipment specialist, EGO Power Plus, has expanded its range of blowers with the industry’s most powerful handheld blower to date. Outperforming other leading petrol-powered and battery blowers, the LB7650E enables a maximum propulsive force of 26n and a max airspeed of 195mph.
Offering a run time of up to six hours on a single charge, the blower joins the EGO Professional range for those working on large and demanding gardens.
Engineered to outperform petrol power when in Boost Mode with a maximum volume intake of 1,300m3/h, and equipped with a variable thumb selector, users can get more power at the touch of a button to blow away stubborn debris.
Designed with user comfort in mind, this lightweight machine with enhanced ergonomics makes for an easier day of work in the garden. The redesigned variable speed trigger, boost switch and speed dial simplify useability and give the operator complete control of the power they need.
The blower comes with easy to install large blowing tubes included as accessories, its round nozzle is ideal for moving leaves and other debris in large volumes, and the flat nozzle can be used to move wet leaves, stones and other hard-to-shift objects ensuring that users are prepared for any task.
Vince Brauns, Group Product Manager at EGO Power Plus said: “Out of all garden tools, petrol leaf blowers are often the most contentious, not just for their fumes but for their volume too. With the LB7650E, we’re not just expanding our Professional range, we’re also providing a battery-powered leaf blower that outperforms the power of petrol, poses no risk to the environment, and has a lower impact on its operator’s health. Professional gardeners will be able to complete jobs easily, quickly, and quietly in a way that a petrol leaf blower could never allow.”
The LB7650E can be equipped with any EGO 56V Arc Lithium battery, coupled with a high-efficiency brushless motor, users can expect reliable power and greater run times for emission-free gardening with reduced noise and vibrations.
Amanda Barber from Berkshire has joined the team at a plant information company as its new Library Manager...
Amanda Barber from Berkshire has joined the team at a plant information company as its new Library Manager.
In her new role, Amanda will be working with growers and breeders, collating data and images for Joy of Plants’ library, which customers can use to help promote and support plant ranges via online and in-store information.
She said: “I am already thoroughly enjoying my new role at Joy of Plants. It’s a happy marriage bringing together the skillset I’ve developed over the years in terms of research, data development and administration, and my genuine passion for plants and gardening.
“I love learning about plants and how to grow them, and then using my writing skills to share that knowledge. At Joy of Plants, we’re all about helping gardeners choose the right plants for them and helping retailers by making it easy for them to provide plant information to their customers.
“Since I started work here, I am looking at plants in a new way, and learning about the industry that brings those plants to us as gardeners.
“I recently went to Four Oaks Trade Show for the first time, and it was a fantastic and mind-blowing experience. The diversity of companies involved, and the common passion and interest shown by the people who work for those companies has really impressed me. And everyone is so friendly, I feel like I’ve landed in the right place for me.”
Prior to her position at Joy of Plants, Amanda worked at the National Foundation for Educational Research and was responsible for the collection and collation of paper based and electronic data and analysis for research projects in education.
Before that, for 21 years, she was the Operations Manager and company Director at Lychgate Projects Ltd, a market research consultancy that specialised in the construction industry.
In her spare time, Amanda enjoys gardening and growing her own vegetables. She also enjoys an active and outdoors lifestyle with her family, including her young Border Collie dog.
Terri Jones, Managing Director at Joy of Plants, said: “We are thrilled to have Amanda on board. She has all the qualities we were looking for in our Library Manager, experience of developing huge and high-quality databases, a practical understanding of research and publishing techniques, and a strong personal interest in gardening that drives her desire to work for us and use her skills to help grow other gardeners. Plus, she's great fun to work with.”
Joy of Plants’ mission is to make plant information easy and accessible to all. It has created a library of more than 15,300 UK garden plants and trees and offers a platform of tools to help garden centres, retailers, growers and breeders maximise their plant sales and income.
It provides this information in many products including an Image and Text Library for ecommerce sites, a Plant Finder for websites and Touchscreen Kiosks, and print on-demand Bed Cards.
For further details about Joy of Plants, please call 07717 532323 or visit www.joyofplants.com.
The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) has announced that Royal FloraHolland has joined the upcoming World Ornamental Horticulture Summit as a Gold Sponsor...
The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) has announced that Royal FloraHolland has joined the upcoming World Ornamental Horticulture Summit as a Gold Sponsor.
The Summit will take place on 28th September 2022 in Almere, the Netherlands, as part of the 74th AIPH Annual Congress. With a theme of ‘Influencing change in a digital world’, the Summit aims to answer: how new media and digital marketing can be utilised to drive sales; how social media can influence the supply chain; and how the industry can prepare for a new world of consumer power.
“At Royal FloraHolland we strive for sustainable success for our members by working together with all parties in the floriculture industry,” says Marielle Ammerlaan, manager cooperative services at Royal FloraHolland and responsible for sponsorships. “We believe that we are smarter and better together and can do more at less cost than if we each operate on our own. That is exactly why we proudly sponsor this event, where the top of the industry comes together to share best practices for successful entrepreneurship.”
Steven van Schilfgaarde, CEO of Royal FloraHolland, will join the ‘Our future in a digital world’ panel during the Summit. This panel will bring together leading industry figures who will explain how they see the role of the online world in shaping the future of the industry. He will be joined in this panel by Jan van Dam, CEO of Dutch Flower Group.
Confirmed speakers and panellists include:
Domingo Iucide, CEO of Brainpull digital agency, Italy
Valerio Perego, Head of CPG Tech Telco, Meta (formerly Facebook Inc.) Italy
Jan van Dam, CEO of Dutch Flower Group, the Netherlands
Justin Hancock, Brand Marketing, Costa Farms, USA
Darryl Cheng, Social Media Influencer, Canada
Michael Perry (aka Mr Plant Geek), Social Media Influencer, UK
Dr. Tosca Ferber-Koevoets, Research Director at Dümmen Orange, the Netherlands
Marco van der Sar, Chairman of the Flower Council, the Netherlands
Steven van Schilfgaarde, CEO of Royal FloraHolland, the Netherlands
Royal FloraHolland joins Headline Sponsor PERA, Summit Silver Sponsor Brainpull, and Summit Bronze Sponsor GreenTech. AIPH is also grateful for the support of event partners Ciopora, the European Photonics Industry Consortium (EPIC), the Floriculture Sustainability Initiative (FSI), and Florint.org.
Autumn Fair 2022 ended on a high with a focus on collaboration, community, and conscious retailing...
Four days, four destinations, twelve product sectors, thousands of retailers, hundreds of exhibitors showcasing millions of new and innovative products including homeware, décor, gifts, greetings and stationery, Christmas, beauty and wellbeing, womenswear, fashion accessories, jewellery and footwear, Autumn Fair 2022 ended on a high with a focus on collaboration, community, and conscious retailing.
The inspirational show, which took place from 4th – 7th September at NEC Birmingham, offered the UK and Europe’s retailers a space to meet, re-connect, network and source, as well as learn about sustainability, responsible sourcing, circularity, and advice for creating a buoyant future for retailing, all under one roof.
New features on the show floor included the New Product Showcase which successfully launched at Autumn Fair 2022, giving exhibitors the perfect platform to launch their brand-new developments. From odd socks advent calendars to dog biscuit baking kits, the New Product Showcase was the place to discover a curated edit of the most unique and innovative products.
This year, a whole stand was dedicated to the Power of One® campaign with curated product inspiration and a visual and interactive space for visitors to make their own Power of One® pledges, a Self-Reflection mirrored wall, and live art. The Sustainability Product Showcase put the spotlight on an edit of eco-conscious exhibitors, and Autumn Fair’s headline sponsors, Products of Change collaborated on the Power of One® stand offering their advice and one-on-one sessions on how to make businesses more sustainable. Throughout the show, the incredibly talented artist Saroj Patel a striking mural, and visitors also learned more about Autumn Fair’s three Power of One® pledges to make positive changes towards better sustainability and wellbeing.
As one of the industry’s most highly respected industry accolades, aimed at recognising the best new products, talent, and inspiration in our industry each year, Autumn Fair partnered with Giftware Association to create a beautiful new showcase of all the Gift of the Year 2022 category winners enabling visitors to see them all collectively in one handy space. Being crowned a category winner provides industry-wide recognition and previous entrants have seen a huge boost to their sales and revenue – the winners on show will become the next year’s bestsellers.
Buyers from retailers including John Lewis, Fenwick, Fishpools, M&S, TJX – TKMaxx, Mint Velvet, The Dressing Room, Pamela Shiffer, Between the Lines, Wayfair, Dunelm, Next, Pretty Little Thing, Paperchase, Hallmark, Rymans, Blue Diamond, Dobbies, Chester Zoo, The Science Museum, Kew Gardens, The Works, The Hut Group, Homebase, and thousands more flocked to the show. Many commented on the importance of seeing products and meeting people in person, the scope created from cross-buying opportunities, and the benefits and value generated by the inspirational talks and presentations on the Inspiring Retail Stage and MODA Catwalk.
Nicky Shallcross, Owner of start-up online boutique Interior Superior said; “I am setting up an online interior store in the next few weeks. Trade shows like Autumn Fair are good for a buyer with a limited travel budget, and it's really important to meet people, get a feel for the product and also the dimensions and quality. Sourcing is really important to me and due to Brexit I am trying to focus on UK suppliers, so I will definitely visit Spring Fair next season. I really liked Pad Home and their brand I Bride, and also Light Style London. I have a few accounts with some suppliers here already so wanted to meet them and tell them about the business in person. I also did lots of research online prior to attending and chose not to order anything until I had met them and seen the product at the show. I listened to the Mary Portas talk, it was very good and really engaging, I came away feeling really confident with my new venture.”
Emma Cable, Buyer from Alton Garden Centre said; “We have been coming to Autumn Fair for the last 5 years and find its useful to meet existing suppliers also nice to look around each hall to see if there is anything new we can stock in our garden centre.”
Gavin Wills, Buyer from United Brands said; “Autumn Fair is a fantastic show. We have been visiting for the last 5 years and we find this very useful to meet with existing suppliers and open new trading relationships.”
Ameena Hussain, Sales manager from Personalised to Perfection said; “I have been coming to Autumn Fair for the past 8 years and keep on coming back as it’s got great ideas for upcoming business. People from around the world look forward to coming to see the show.”
Katie Coombes Owner, Hermosa Boutique said; “It was a great show, so much more to see than last season. I would have liked to be able to stay longer and see the Home section as it’s always nice to source candles or stationery for my clothing boutique.”
Shirley Leader, Owner of Velvet & Rose said; “MODA had a real buzz in the air! There were lots of brands present. Found some lovely new brands for AW22 and visited my existing ones too!”
Nicola Meadows, Portfolio Director at Autumn Fair commented on the final day of the show looking ahead to Spring Fair in February 2023; “There has been so much to celebrate at Autumn Fair, and as the doors close today, I feel immensely humbled by the response from our community and the passion, drive, and enthusiasm to work together to refuel retail and work towards a better, more responsible and kinder way of doing business. I am very excited to look ahead to Spring Fair and delivering another memorable show for the home, gift, fashion, and sourcing markets.”
Spring Fair takes place from 5th – 8th February 2023 at NEC Birmingham, please visit https://www.springfair.com/ for more information.
The best of last week's
If you missed last week's GTN Xtra, below are the most-read stories...
The Greener Gardening Company, the UK retail arm of Irish peat company Bord na Mona (BnM), is to close, with the reported loss of up to 100 jobs, say industry reports reaching GTN Xtra during the past few days...
The Greener Gardening Company, the UK retail arm of Irish peat company Bord na Mona (BnM), is to close, with the reported loss of up to 100 jobs, say industry reports reaching GTN Xtra during the past few days.
BnM is believed to have rejected the idea of selling the business as a going concern, despite interest from a number of potential purchasers. GTN understands rivals may already have registered interest in acquiring the company’s assets.
BnM’s PR company issued the following statement on Friday afternoon:
“The Greener Gardening Company (TGGC) has notified its employees of its intention to consult on ceasing production at its sites in Kirkby and Somerset. TGGC is committed to saving jobs wherever possible. Every effort will be made to avoid compulsory redundancies and to consider suitable alternative employment via relocation within the BnM group.”
No details about the reasons for the closure have been offered.
Sources say BnM will start consultation with employees later this month, with a view to closing its sites on 20 October.
In 2020, BnM re-branded its UK retail business as the Greener Gardening Company, operating from Kirkby, near Liverpool, offering a range of peat-reduced and peat-free growing media brands, including Happy Compost, Growise and Richmoor.
BnM itself, historically dependent on peat extraction, has in recent years re-positioned itself as an ecologically-responsible company adapting to changing needs in the climate emergency. With the complexities of Brexit and a UK ban on sales of peat products in retail horticulture in the offing, the Greener Gardening Company was designed to lead the way towards a peat-free future on the UK mainland.
In July BnM announced plans to replace its Newbridge, Co.Kildare, headquarters with a new state-of-the-art energy-efficient building. The company employs 240 people in the town.
The garden industry has been paying its own tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II following her sad passing on Thursday...
The garden industry has been paying its own tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II following her sad passing on Thursday.
James Barnes, chairman of the HTA, said: “It is with huge sadness that we learnt of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The HTA would like to pay tribute to Her Majesty for the immeasurable stability, dignity and prestige she has bestowed on this nation in so many ways and for so many years. For us in particular in the field of Horticulture. She was of course a hugely keen gardener and took special interest in the development of the gardens at Buckingham Palace, Balmoral and Sandringham. Her love of countryside unrivalled.
“Her attendance at Chelsea every year testament to that wider interest and support of the industry. The iconic planting of a tree so symbolic in so many of her duties and ceremonies. And just this year the huge take up of tree planting across the land to celebrate her platinum jubilee under the banner of the Queen’s Canopy.
“Many of our members have had or have the patronage of the Royal household through the Royal Warrant and will have had the pleasure and privilege that that honour bestows.
“She will be hugely missed not just in our country but across the world. Our thoughts and hearts are with all the Royal Family at this poignant time. God save the King.”
The garden centre industry has been paying its respects to HM The Queen through messages and the adoption of sombre images and colouring on its social media platforms. They thank her for her extraordinary service to the country and pass on condolences to the Royal Family, while others also recognise her support and love of gardening and plants.
Hillier Garden Centre’s, one of several companies within the horticultural sector to hold a Royal Warrant, thanked the Queen for her unstinting support through visits to its exhibits at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
Some garden centres closed the day after the announcement of the Queen’s passing while others including the team at The Old Railway Line Garden Centre, Brecon, created a Tree of Thanks display in its plantaria. The commemorative display will be added to by customers writing messages of thanks on cards and hanging them on the tree.
At Perrywood Tiptree a picture of The Queen displayed on an easel was surrounded by a bouquet of everlasting red, white and blue flowers and in Shiptonthorpe, Langlands Garden Centre is planning to plant a special rose and create a memorial display to express its appreciation and gratitude.
Royal Warrant holders, Vitax Ltd posted as above on their website.
Raemoir, the garden centre closest to Balmoral include the post above on their facebook page.
Glendoick Garden Centre, which may well be on the route the Queens coffin takes to Edinburgh today, posted: "Glendoick Garden Centre joins with people around the United Kingdom and the world in mourning the passing of Queen Elizabeth IIl. We offer sincere and deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this very sad time." along with this photo of the Queen and the now King Charles III tree planting.
Some retailers have taken the decision to close on the day of the funeral, Monday 19 September, whilst others have made decisions to limit their marketing activity during the period of mourning.
Alan Down has duly been elected HTA President at the HTA AGM last week and in his first weekly "Message from the President" video, posted on You Tube, he announces that Will Armitage is to be the new Vice-President...
Alan Down has duly been elected HTA President at the HTA AGM last week and in his first weekly "Message from the President" video, posted on You Tube, he announces that Will Armitage is to be the new Vice-President.
Boyd Douglas-Davies becomes Immediate Past President and at the AGM, James Barnes, whilst summing up Boyds Presidency during the HTA AGM on Friday, announced that Boyd has become Chair of the Ornamental Horticulture Roundtable Group (OHRG). This is a two-year appointment.
The OHRG is a body of industry leaders and innovators, including retailers, gardening charities and industry bodies, that have been championing the immense value and benefits of ornamental horticulture to safeguard the nation’s future.
The HTA Conference takes place on Wednesday 14th September at the ICC in Birmingham. The Conference will ask:
What will our industry look like?
How will the accelerating pace of change impact the way we live?
What does the retail revolution look like?
How will automation, artificial intelligence and the metaverse change the world we live in?
Find out the answers to these questions, network with your industry peers and enjoy a day of insights into 2030.
Speakers include: Adventurer, TV Presenter and Author - Simon Reeve, The Plant Geek - Michael Perry, Community Gardener - Tayshan Hayden-Smith, Chief Economic Advisor, CEBR - Vicky Pryce and Director of Consultancy at Foresight Factory - Josh McBain
The GTN Team look forward to meeting you at the Conference.
GTN understands places are still available for Horticulture The Conference, to book please email events@hta.org.uk
After 20 years working with Solus, and latterly nine years at Westland, Andy Abraham has left the company to explore new business opportunities within the industry...
After 20 years working with Solus, and latterly nine years at Westland, Andy Abraham has left the company to explore new business opportunities within the industry.
As one of the founding team of Crest Garden, which was then incorporated directly into the Westland portfolio, Andy is a well-known and highly respected individual in the gardening industry, with over 30 years’ experience.
He has great expertise in Sales, working in many roles as Sales Director, Sales Manager and Key Account levels, and is also very experienced in new product development and bringing award winning products to market.
Commenting on his new venture, Andy said: “After an exciting nine years at Westland, working with some of the best brands and some great people, it’s time for me to seek my next challenge within our wonderful garden trade. I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience and can now offer my services to the wider industry, in helping others grow their business."
Andy has hit the ground running with meetings with potential new clients already in the pipeline and he looks forward to speaking with any suppliers, or garden centre operators, who may need interim management, or consultancy support, to get in touch.
As the key season for 2022 comes to an end, Hozelock is looking ahead to a promising 2023 which involves a new CEO at the helm and the acquisition of an additional manufacturing facility...
As the key season for 2022 comes to an end, Hozelock is looking ahead to a promising 2023 which involves a new CEO at the helm and the acquisition of an additional manufacturing facility.
CEO appointment
Moving the business forward is new CEO Simon Davies, who has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the sector having worked at Hozelock for more than 10 years. In his previous role of Group Sales and Marketing Director, Simon worked closely with key stakeholders, including suppliers, customers and retailers, which will provide valuable insight to move the business forward.
Increased manufacturing capabilities
Hozelock’s long-term growth strategy also includes the recent multi-million-pound investment in additional manufacturing and warehouse facilities at its base in the West Midlands. The increase of 6,000 sqm will enable the business to expand UK manufacturing capabilities in response to increasing consumer demand, both in the UK and internationally.
NPD in the pipeline
Next year, Hozelock’s already-impressive product portfolio will further expand with a whole new host of products, including an overhaul of the oscillating sprinklers range, Wonderhoze, a new alternative hose, and a brand-new Solar-Heated Shower.
Simon Davies, Hozelock CEO, said: “This is an extremely exciting time for both myself and the business. With increased manufacturing capabilities and a number of innovative new products in the pipeline, including those in brand-new categories, 2023 promises to be a busy year for Hozelock. I look forward to seeing how our new products are received by both retailers and gardeners alike and to building on our relationships with stakeholders.”
Every week GTN receives and analyses epos data from a number of UK garden centres to produce the GTN Bestsellers charts...
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.
Highlights of the GTN Garden Products Bestsellers chart for last week are here
Highlights of the GTN Plants Bestsellers chart for last week are here
Highlights of the GTN Growing Media Bestsellers chart for last week are here
Highlights of the GTN Veg-2-Gro Bestsellers chart for last week are here
Highlights of the GTN Wild Bird Care Bestsellers chart for last 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 for only £145.00.
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 £100m.
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.
We are completely focussed on customer service, winning ‘Best Service to the Independent Retailer’ award winner for 11 consecutive years, something we are extremely proud of!
Through practical, hands on learning days, in small groups, spanning one to four days, students, some new into the sector and many already working in landscaping can hone their skills in all aspects of landscape work. Currently courses include bricklaying, deck installation, laying block and porcelain paving, dry stone walling and garden design. Run by multi award-winning professional, Rupert with a specially curated cohort of industry professionals, the training is supported by APL (Association of Professional Landscapers). The TASK Academy offers a broad range of LANTRA accredited landscaping courses, some of which are also available to the public who want to tackle their own DIY tasks.
CEO appointment 
