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Garden industry reacts to Brexit vote
GTN Xtra has been getting reaction from the garden industry following the nation's decision to leave the EU. Find out how what some of the industry's leading figures and organisations think of the dramatic turn of events and if you'd like to share your views use the comments link below or e-mail trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
Gardenex will work hard to support its exporting members
Amanda Sizer Barrett MBE, Director General of the Gardenex and PetQuip associations, says: “Now that the British public has made its decision regarding European Union membership, the Gardenex and PetQuip associations will continue to work hard to help and support our member firms with all their export aspirations."
 Amanda Sizer Barrett MBE, Director General of the Gardenex and PetQuip associations, says: “Now that the British public has made its decision regarding European Union membership, the Gardenex and PetQuip associations will continue to work hard to help and support our member firms with all their export aspirations."
"We are already best placed to support exporters, with our comprehensive range of practical export advice and information, market research and information and new international business contacts -- both within and outside the EU.
“So although there will inevitably be challenges for British companies, particularly in the shorter term as markets and countries absorb the decision, we will be working hard to provide the hands-on practical help, trade information and business introductions that British exporters in all of our sectors will need, in order to ride the uncertainty following the Referendum results and to open up new business leads and seize fresh export opportunities.
"We are fortunate that our growing body of members is innovative, entrepreneurial and pragmatic and ready to seize opportunities wherever they arise in the world. Therefore we are confident that in the longer term, British exports of garden, leisure and petcare products and services will continue to increase in established markets and develop in new territories and emerging markets around the globe.
"The Federation was in existence and helping exporters for many years prior to the UK joining the EU. Now that the decision has been made to leave, the Federation's experienced team is looking forward to supporting current British exporters and giving practical help to firms who are ready to start exporting".
Gardenex and PetQuip are trade associations that work on behalf of British companies to help their members increase sales worldwide.
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Leading retail industry analysts in the UK have expressed a “wait and see” outlook in the wake of the EU referendum result.
The historic referendum saw 52% of voters agree to have the UK leave the EU, while the remaining 48% of voters wanted to remain.
The results also sparked an overnight plunge of the pound, falling as low as $1.32 against the US dollar – the lowest since the 1980s.
PwC’s retail and consumer lead Madeleine Thomson said as the UK enters a transition period, the impact of Brexit on retail “remains to be seen”.
“Whilst we may see a short-term impact in consumer confidence, most businesses will have a contingency plan in place and there is no reason why long-term success should be impacted by the referendum outcome,” she said.
According to research undertaken by PwC recently, 43% of respondents said their business and growth plans were not dependent on staying in the EU.
On the other hand, Thomson said the main concerns of CEOs were the rise in prices, a squeeze in margins and the impact on EU imports.
Roberto Lobue, a partner at Menzies, said the Brexit result would likely lead to a “disruptive time” for the retail industry with uncertainty in long-term contacts, taxation, the continued employment of EU citizens, and other areas.
“This unpredictability should not be used as an excuse for complacency, however,” he said.
“Responding to this decision will require some urgency, particularly in areas like supply chain relationships.
“Retailers have to remain competitive and need to be able to react quickly as and when the picture of life outside the EU becomes clearer.”
Meanwhile, Knight Frank’s Stephen Springham said if the UK slipped into a recession after Brexit, retail sales would not necessarily follow suit.
“As the last recession proved, retail sales patterns do not religiously track GDP performance,” he said.
“Consumers may tighten purse strings and realign spending priorities, but they will not stop spending altogether. Retail sales performance will remain erratic.”
Springham added that the prospect of rising inflation could be blessing in disguise for the industry.
“There has been too large a gap between retail sales volumes and sales values,” he said.
“Inflation will help narrow this gap, as long as retailers take the bold step of passing on raw price increases to consumers.
He also said the Brexit result could have a “surprisingly neutral” effect on retail property markets.
“The outcome is unlikely to destabilise occupier markets either way,” he said.
“Retail property investment markets will be most affected by a ‘leave’ vote, albeit to no more or lesser degree than other commercial property sectors.
“The retail sector may well benefit from ‘bargain hunting’ investors from overseas, taking advantage of any fall in the value of sterling.
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GIMA’s director Vicky Nuttall says: "Following the announcement that the UK has chosen to leave the EU there is no doubt that we are now moving into a period of uncertainty both financially and politically.
"However, at GIMA it is very much business as usual. Until we learn more about the exit strategy that will be put in place to separate the UK from the rest of the EU, we can only speculate as to both the short and long-term implications for our members of this momentous decision.
"GIMA will be watching the situation carefully as events unfold. We remain dedicated to working on behalf of its members, and committed to doing all we can to ensure that our members cope successfully with any short or longer impact."
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Wet June slows down summer sales
After a record breaking May, the torrential downpours of June have really taken the heat out of garden centre sales. Volume sales data provided from garden centres for GTN Bestsellers indicates sales dropping to end of June llarly, down 42% week on week...
After a record breaking May, the torrential downpours of June have really taken the heat out of garden centre sales. Volume sales data provided from garden centres for GTN Bestsellers indicates sales dropping to end of June levels already and plant sales being hit particularly, down 42% week on week.
Hopefully the showers and storms will pass by this weekend so that the rest of Al Fresco fortnight can actually be spent outside, thereby encouraging customers back into centres to buy more plants for instant garden decoration and other outdoor leisure items.
Roses, Coleus and Orchids have been the star plant performers last week in our Plants Bestsellers chart. Roses in bloom, and smelling great too, jumped 11 places to No 3 overall.
Judging by the displays we’ve seen while meeting teams for The Greatest Plant Retailing Awards it’s no surprise to see Coleus entering the chart at No 18, and Orchids have had a great sales increase, up by 36% to enter our chart at No 21.
The next Greatest Awards are for Outdoor Living Sales teams with the winners having free travel and accommodation for a visit to spoga+gafa for the awards presentation. Make sure your teams are nominated now by e-mailing trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk.
GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year...
- Garden Products - down 14%
- Veg-2-Gro - down 39%
- Growing Media - down 33%
- All Items Index - down 21%
Below: The UK Garden Centre Bestsellers Garden Plants Chart: Week Ending Sunday 19th June 2016
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
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Highlights from the HTA National Plant Show
There was a vibrant and upbeat feel to the 7th HTA National Plant Show, sponsored by Hortipak, which took place at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire. With a packed hall featuring a record number of exhibitors the show really presented the best of plant production...
There was a vibrant and upbeat feel to the 7th HTA National Plant Show, sponsored by Hortipak, which took place at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.
With a packed hall featuring a record number of exhibitors the show really presented the best of plant production. The two day show attracted buyers from across the industry enabling them to catch up with existing suppliers as well as find new ones.
The New Plant Awards, sponsored by the RHS, attracted over 100 entries. Salvia Blue Marvel from Darby Nursery Stock took the title of best in show, as well as the title of Best Herbaceous Perennial.
Other category winners were:
- Best Annual - Petunia Tumbelina Maria from Channel Island Plants UK
- Best Houseplant - Begonia Elatior Valentino Pink from Garden Centre Fresh
- Best Shrub & Climber - Rose Lovely Parfuma from Rosemasters
- BestTrees & Conifers – Betula pendula ‘Fastigiata Joes’ EU20141206 from Frank P Matthews.
Visitors also had the chance to vote for their favourite new plant over the course of the show in the Visitor Vote, sponsored by Floramedia. They voted the Best in Show as Clematis Nubia Evipo59 from Darby Nursery Stock, which was voted best in the Shrubs & Climbers category.
The other category winners were:
- Best Annual – Nemesia Aroma Yellow Rhubarb & Custard from Channel Island Plants
- Best Herbaceous Perennial – Salvia Joy from Darby Nursery Stock
- Best Houseplant – Oncidium Claudia Black Eye from Javado UK
- Best Tree & Conifer – Acer platanoides ‘Ulmers Sensation’ from Frank P Matthews.
New for 2016 was the Planting the Seed Award for best retail inspiration, as voted for by visitors to the show. Hawkesmill Nurseries was declared winners with Allensmore Nurseries in second place and The Bransford Webb Plant Company and Profitplant UK coming joint third.
The British Protected Ornamentals Association and the Home Grown Users Group presented the Home Grown Retail Award for Promotion and Support of UK Grown Plants and Flowers to Grace Hurrell of Tesco Stores, for the chain's consistent support and promotion of British-grown bedding.
The winner of the Planties photographic competition was James Tully of Parker’s Garden Company for his summer wildflower meadow image, which will feature in HTA News.
New for 2016 the Retail Concept Area, put together by trend watcher and green stylist Romeo Sommers provided ideas and stories about the benefits of plants to create interest and give people another reason to buy.
Over the course of the show a number of seminar sessions were held including:
- Neil Bragg from Bulrush Horticulture and Paul Alexander from RHS introduced the audience to the Growing Media Responsible Sourcing Calculator.
- Andy McIndoe highlighted the new plant award winners and how to make the most of them.
- Michael Perry from Thompson & Morgan talked about how to make gardening more accessible by using the right language.
- David Gillam from Abercorn Garden Centre and Chairman of the National Dahlia Society reminded all not to forget the good old favourites of the plant world.
- Raoul Curtis-Machin, HTA Head of Horticulture, provided an update on plant health and Xylella Fastidiosa.
Put the dates in your diary for next year’s show – 20 and 21 June at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire. Further information can be found at www.nationalplantshow.co.uk
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GTN's Greatest Plant Retailing Team Awards have been revealed at the HTA National Plant Show, in a ceremony hosted by GTN's managing director, Trevor Pfeiffer and HTA chief executive Carol Paris.
As part of The Greatest Awards 2016, Garden Trade News celebrated excellence in garden centre plant retailing by hosting and presenting their awards in the following categories: - The Greatest Linked Sales Team
- The Greatest Pot and Plant Sales Team – Top of the Pots
- The Greatest Plant Advice Team
- The Greatest Plant Supplier of the Year
- The Greatest Plant Retailing Team
Check out the winners in this Special Greatest Awards edition of GTN Xtra.
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Poppies Oban, Timmermans and Scotsdales Cambridge all picked up golds in GTN's prestigious Greatest Plant Sales Teams categories sponsored by the HTA.
Below: the Gold and Silver award winners in the mid-sized garden category.
The Greatest Plant Sales Teams
Finalists
- Altons
- Aylett Nurseries
- Barton Grange
- Baytree
- Bents
- Burston
- Castle Gardens
- Coolings
- Cowells
- Fresh@Burcot
- Fron Goch
- Haskins Ferndown
- Jacksons Nurseries
- Mains of Drum
- Notcutts Woodford Park
- Perrywood
- Poppies Oban
- Raemoir
- Scotsdales Cambridge
- Scotsdales Fordham
- Timmermans
- Trentham Blue Diamond
- Twenty Pence
- Woodside Plant Centre
Bronze Awards Small Centre Plant Sales Teams: Fresh@Burcot Mid Sized Centre Plant Sales Teams: Mains of Drum Large Centre Plant Sales Teams: Perrywood, Barton Grange
Below: Fresh@Burcot received their Bronze award in the small garden centres category.
Silver Awards Small Centre Plant Sales Teams: Scotsdales Fordham Mid Sized Centre Plant Sales Teams: Cowells, Alton Large Centre Plant Sales Teams: Coolings, Burston Gold Awards Small Centre Plant Sales Teams: Poppies Oban Mid Sized Centre Plant Sales Teams: Timmermans Large Centre Plant Sales Teams: Scotsdales Cambridge
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Burston picked up gold to clinch the Greatest Linked Sales Team sponsored by Briers...
The Greatest Linked Sales Team
Finalists
- Aylett Nurseries
- Baytree
- Burston
- Coolings
- Cowells
- Fron Goch
- Haskins Ferndown
- Poppies Oban
Bronze Award: Poppies Oban and Aylett Nurseries
Silver Award: Haskins Ferndown and Coolings
Gold Award: Burston
Below: The Bronze and Silver and Gold linked sales award winners with Jackie Eades (second right) of cagtegory sponsors Briers.
Burston were the Top of the Pots as they picked up a second gold in the Greatest Pot and Plant Sales Team category sponsored by Elho. The Greatest Pot and Plant Sales Team - Top of the Pots
Finalists
- Barton Grange
- Bents
- Burston
- Cowells
- Fron Goch
- Mains of Drum
- Scotsdales Cambridge
- Timmermans
Bronze Award: Timmermans and Fron Goch
Silver Award: Bents
Gold Award: Burston
Above: The Gold, Silver and Bronze medal winning pot and plant sales team receive their awards from Elho's David Nicholson.
Cowells and Fron Goch were jointly crowned The Greatest Plant Advice Teams.
The Greatest Plant Advice Team
Finalists
- Barton Grange
- Bents
- Castle Gardens
- Cowells
- Fron Goch
- Perrywood
- Scotsdales Cambridge
- Trentham Blue Diamond
Bronze Award: Castle Gardens and Trentham Blue Diamond
Silver Award: Barton Grange and Perrywood
Gold Award: Fron Goch and Cowells
Above: Trentham Blue Diamond, Perrywood and Fron Goch after receiving their awards from Morten Andresen (second right) from category sponsors More People.
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Bransford Webbs picked up the prestigious Greatest Plant Supplier of the Year Award...
The Greatest Plant Supplier of the Year
Finalists
- Frank Matthews
- Y&S Nurseries
- Pacific Nurseries
- Farplants
- Woodlark
- Veen Plants
- Bridge Nurseries
- Allensmore
- JB Plants
Bronze Award: Chapel Cottage Plants
Silver Award: Hilliers
Gold Award: Bransford Webbs
Above: Bransford Webbs, Hilliers Nursries and Chapel Cottage Garden Plants after receiving their awards from Kimberley Hornby (second right) from category sponsors Hornby Whitefoot PR.
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This was the scene in the car park at Cowells Garden Centre earlier this week...
The garden centre tweeted the pictures after the incident with the caption: "A slight parking error today! Everyone ok though."
Wyevale Nurseries helps raise £1,000 for Greenfingers
Wyevale Nurseries has helped to raise £1,000 for Greenfingers by taking part in its ‘Turn Old into Gold’ fundraiser. Adam Dunnett (pictured right), Sales and Marketing Director at Wyevale Nurseries, said: “We donated approximately 800 plants to be auctioned off."
Wyevale Nurseries has helped to raise £1,000 for Greenfingers by taking part in its ‘Turn Old into Gold’ fundraiser.
The company raised the money by auctioning off some of its plants in aid of the charity.
 Adam Dunnett, Sales and Marketing Director at Wyevale Nurseries, said: “We donated approximately 800 plants to be auctioned off. Some of the stock was from us and some were donated by Wyevale Garden Centres, which recently had a show garden at the RHS Malvern Spring Garden Show where they won a gold medal.
“We collected the show plants for them at the end of the event and they have asked if we could donate them to a charity and we suggested Greenfingers. We are delighted that the plants managed to raise £1,000 for the charity.
“We donated a selection of plants to the fundraiser last year and will continue to do so throughout 2016. It’s great that we can dispose of unwanted stock and know that it will be going to a good home while also raising money for a great charity. Greenfingers do a fantastic job building magical gardens for children with life-limiting illnesses in children’s hospices across the UK.”
The fundraiser is supported by wholesale logistics company Decco. Greenfingers will arrange for plants/products to be taken to W & H Peacock Auctions in Bedford who will auction the goods and donate all the money it raises to Greenfingers.
The money raised by Turn Old into Gold will go towards the ‘A Million Moments Appeal’, which aims to raise £1million during the next three years to enable Greenfingers to bring the gift of a garden to at least 5,000 more children and families who spend time in a hospice.
David Mitchell, Plant Buyer at Wyevale Garden Centres, said: “We were delighted to win a prestigious RHS Gold Medal and Best in Show Award at the recent Malvern Spring Show. This wouldn’t have been possible without the outstanding quality of plants provided by Wyevale Nurseries and other key suppliers so when we heard about Greenfingers’ campaign to auction off plants to raise money it seemed the perfect home for our show plants.”
Goods can be collected as Greenfingers will contact Decco who will then be in touch to arrange the collection and delivery to W & H Peacock Auctions. All deliveries collected by Decco will need to be on shrink wrapped pallets or boxed.
Linda Petrons, Head of Fundraising at Greenfingers, said: “We would like to thank Wyevale Nurseries and Wyevale Garden Centres for their support and also helping us spread the word about our Turn Old into Gold campaign. We hope many other horticultural businesses get involved with the fundraiser and help us to continue our work which really is making a difference.”
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Wyevale Garden Centres extends landscaping proposition
 
Wyevale Garden Centres has announced the extension of its popular ‘Landscape Yards’. Already proving a success across several other centres, the Landscape Yards will launch for the first time in four additional centres across the UK – Swindon, Gloucester, Royston and Harlestone Heath...
Wyevale Garden Centres has announced the extension of its popular ‘Landscape Yards’.
Already proving a success across several other centres, the Landscape Yards will launch for the first time in four additional centres across the UK – Swindon, Gloucester, Royston and Harlestone Heath.
Each Landscape Yard will cover an area of no less than 12,000 square foot and stock everything from paving and fencing to sheds and summerhouses. The varied product range means the centres are a 'one-stop shop' for professional tradesmen and homeowners with a DIY passion, looking to purchase their materials with a dedicated bulk-buy and pick up area, separate to the centre main entrance.
Each centre will feature inspirational paved displays, produced from the landscaping materials that are stocked in store. Built in partnership with locally sourced landscapers, they help to inspire visitors planning a garden landscaping project (also open to main garden centre customers).
 Ben Wright, Landscape Sales Manager at Wyevale Garden Centres, explains: "Our existing landscape yards are already proving extremely popular amongst the trade industry with sales up 44% in 2015.
"The new yards will provide all landscaping needs under one roof; with inspirational ideas through the creation of our paved displays and product at competitive trade prices. Product expertise is also key at the Landscape Yards, which is something you can’t buy over the counter. We have a dedicated sales team to assist trade customers and enthusiastic landscapers by offering help and advice to make their job easier."
All the products on display will be available in stock and in bulk. The Landscaping Yards are offering a bespoke solution, professional advice and design help, competitive prices, trade discounts and quality guaranteed by Wyevale Garden Centres.
The Landscape Yards are already open at Wyevale Garden Centres at Old Barn, Winnersh, Osterley, Rake, Playhatch, Lechlade, and Bicester.
For more information visit http://www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk/landscapingyard
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£30 million investment at Grange
Leading decorative garden structures and fencing company Grange is to benefit from a significant additional investment from its Polish parent company Stelmet in a considerably expanded supply chain capacity. This will create additional manufacturing capability and provide an additional UK distribution site in the south east of England...
Leading decorative garden structures and fencing company Grange is to benefit from a significant additional investment from its Polish parent company Stelmet in a considerably expanded supply chain capacity. This will create additional manufacturing capability and provide an additional UK distribution site in the south east of England.
A new £30m manufacturing facility opening this autumn in Grudziadz, Poland will enable further commitment to high quality product development as Grange continues to focus on product differentiation throughout its existing ranges and its new product development plans. The site will also add capacity for greater volumes of product in response to demand and ensure consistency of materials and manufacturing quality.
The new distribution site in the South East, with its excellent supply links to the new Polish manufacturing facility, will improve distribution across the board creating a number of operational efficiencies. This will shorten lead times, enable improvements in customer service and create a stronger distribution network working in tandem with Grange’s Telford headquarters and production site.
At Telford itself the investment will enable improved speed of service and additional storm cover product availability, as well as develop productivity and distribution capability. There is a consequent proposal to close the company’s Hull-based manufacturing and distribution facility, which is currently going through a consultation period.
Commenting on the investment, Managing Director of Grange, Neil Taylor said, “Recent investment from Stelmet has been extremely positive in terms of sales volume and customer gains. The company is now increasing both its production capacity and its supply chain efficiency in order to ensure it can deliver growth.”
“The company continues to forge ahead with online and offline promotional and communications activity, including a new website, increased social media presence and ongoing trade and consumer PR and advertising. The Grange team is committed to providing customers with stunning products, quality service and a real opportunity to maximise consumer appeal.”
Retailers interested in working with Grange should contact the company on 01952 588 088 or email sales@grangefen.co.uk
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May Bank Holidays boost garden centre sales
Sales in traditional and non-traditional categories were up during May thanks to the Bank Holidays according to the Garden Centre Association’s Barometer of Trade results...
Sales in traditional and non-traditional categories were up during May thanks to the Bank Holidays according to the Garden Centre Association’s Barometer of Trade results.
Furniture and barbecue sales were up 35.21% while more traditional outdoor plant sales were up 20.42%.
Iain Wylie, GCA Chief Executive, explained: “After a very wet and cold April, May was very much an improvement weather wise and the two Bank Holiday Weekends certainly led to a boost in sales.
“For many a traditional Bank Holiday activity is to pop to the local garden centre and it looks like lots of people did this as both traditional and non-traditional categories did well during the month.
“Houseplant sales were up 5.56%, clothing sales were up 19.45%, catering was up 7.62% and food hall and farm shop sales were up 11.34%. The only sales that were down were gifts at -0.92%.”
Seed and bulb sales were up 16.52%, garden sundries were up 18.11 %, pets and aquatics up 2.86% and hard landscaping was up 15.97%.
Sales showed a Year to Date increase of 7.5% and May’s overall increase was 17.2%.
Mike Burks, Managing Director of The Gardens Group, which has centres in Sherborne and Poundbury in Dorset and in Yeovil, Somerset, said: “It was a very strong start to May albeit comparing to two rather ordinary months in 2014 and 2015.
“The second weekend was very busy and perhaps even record breaking certainly against recent years. The mix of product such as plants, compost and pots by the trolley full felt like the old days.”
The GCA BoT reports are compiled using actual sales figures and provide an up-to-date trading position statement. They are made available mid-month following the end of the prior month after all member garden centres have submitted their results.
 Julian Winfield, Chairman of the Garden Centre Association and Chief Executive of Haskins Garden Centres, said: “Like all garden centres we have been ready for some warm weather since the beginning of March and it was a relief when the sun came out.
“The good thing about great weather in May is that everything performs well and it did!”
The BoT reports allow members to compare their trading positions with other centres.
Andrew Pitman, Store Manager at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre in Taunton, Somerset, which is a member of the Garden Centre Association, said: “We had a good first May Bank Holiday and it was helped by the fact we had great weather and some glorious sunshine. It’s always reassuring to see positive Bank Holiday sales when the weather is on our side. Traditional gardening sales were on the up.
“Even with the many other attractions we have on site such as our restaurant and our Craft and Pet centres, trade is, and always will be, measured by the weather.”
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Peacock Garden Supports develops, produces and sells high quality plant supports for more than 25 years. Our products are being sold in 3.000 garden centres and DIY-stores worldwide. To our product ranges belong the Pinnups plant supports, plant supports which 'grow' with plants, solid rose arches, obelisks and much more functional garden decorations.
In 2015 we succesfully launched our complete new program with stylish bird feeding holders. We also introduced our new brand Mason Mini Gardens, a beautiful collection with mini-garden accessories for creating lovely mini-gardens.
To set up our sales in the United Kingdom we are looking for:
Independent Sales Agents
to build a complete new sales force.
Can you say YES to following questions:- Are you active as an independent sales representative in the garden branche?
- Are your customers garden centres, florists, DIY-shops, garden designers or garden webshops?
- Are you looking to expand your product range with high quality products?
- Do you want to increase sales in your area?
- Do you want to work with a dynamic team in a growing organisation?
- And are you an enthusiastic, driven, self-employed person with lots of persuasiveness and do you have a passion for gardening?
Then you might be one of the persons we are looking for!
How to continue:
Send your motivation and c.v. to peacock@peacock.nl and indicate in which counties you operate.
After receiving your information, we will contact you within 1 week. When there is mutual interest we will meet at the GLEE in Birmingham at Monday 12-09-2016. So save the date!
You can respond until 30-07-2016.
Peacock Garden Supports ● Industrieweg 22 ● 5688 DP ● The Netherlands ● www.peacock.nl
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Garden Centre Shop Manager | Surrey (ref:DS8456)
Location: Surrey
Salary: £20,000 - £22,000
Date: 20 Jun
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
We are currently seeking an outstanding Garden Sundries Retail Manager to manage the Shop Area of this Surrey 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 - Shop Manager - Garden Sundries Retail Manager - based Surrey
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
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Garden Centre Plantarea Manager (ref:DS8448)
Location: Hertfordshire
Salary: £33,000 - £35,000
Date: 17 Jun
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
We are seeking an outstanding Plantarea Manager for our client, they are a leading independent garden centre group who have a well stocked plantarea, a popular restaurant , along with a garden shop that offers customers a range of quality gifts and garden sundries. They are very much a destination centre but have a strong horticultural customer base and take over a 1/3 of their income from the plant department. They are currently looking for a superb plants person to take charge of the Plantarea and make this an super customer experience for their visitors.
The Role
- Will be to manage the plantarea on a day to day basis ensuring plant stock is in tip top condition and merchandised to a high standard.
- Liaise with the group Buyer on managing supplies, stocking and plant choices.
- Supervising staff and ensuring that customer services are kept to a very high standard.
The Candidate - For this role candidates must have:
- A proven track-record in the industry along with good man-management and supervisory skills.
- Excellent plant knowledge and a good background in horticultural retailing is a must for this role.
- Superb plant merchandising skills.
- Be a team player with the ability to offer superb customer service.
To apply for this role click here
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Garden Centre Team Leader (ref:DS8441)
Location: Kent
Salary: £16,000
Date: 16 Jun
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
This Nationwide group of leading garden centres are currently seeking an outstanding Garden Sundries Team Leader to assist in the management their Shop area.
The Role - Garden Sundries Team Leader based on the Kent coast
This is an exciting opportunity to join a cutting edge Garden Sundries Department. The ideal candidate will have a background in 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.
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
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Planteria Seasonal Department Manager (ref:DS8439)
Location: Hampshire
Salary: £20,000 - £23,000
Date: 16 Jun
Job Type: Full-Time
Duration: Permanent
Our client is a lovely up-market Hampshire garden centre who has a well stocked Plantarea, a popular restaurant and carvery, along with a garden shop that offers customers a range of quality gifts and garden sundries. They are currently looking for a superb plants person to manage the Seasonal Plant Section of the Plantarea.
The Role
- Will be to manage the seasonal plant section on a day to day basis - ensuring plant stock is in tip top condition and merchandised to a high standard.
- Liaise with the Plantarea Manager, who is in overall charge of the Plantarea and Supervisors on managing supplies, merchandising and promotions.
- Helping customers and ensuring that customer services are kept to a very high standard.
The Candidate
The ideal candidate for this role must have:
- A proven track-record in the industry, preferably with training in horticulture.
- Excellent plant knowledge and a good background in horticultural retailing is a must for this role.
- Be a team player with the ability to offer superb customer service.
- Experience of supervising and managing a team of staff is also desirable.
To apply for this role click here
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Registration for Glee 2016 is live!
Online registration for Glee (12th-14th September, NEC Birmingham) is now live, enabling buyers and retailers to get online and book their free ticket to the leading showcase for the garden and leisure industry...
 Online registration for Glee (12th-14th September, NEC Birmingham) is now live, enabling buyers and retailers to get online and book their free ticket to the leading showcase for the garden and leisure industry. Register online today to save yourself £20 and receive free parking and show catalogue.
Key brands confirmed for Glee 2016 include Scott’s Miracle Gro, Westland, Gardman, Smart Garden, Hozelock, Fiskars, Elho, Scheurich, Kaemingk, Briers, Kelkay, Woodlodge, Apta, Grange Fencing, Deroma, Cadix, Deco-Pak, Hamac, Vision Commercial Kitchens, Whitco Catering & Bakery Equipment, Bon Bons Wholesale, Halewood International, Smiemans, Stagecraft, Davidson Richards, Fordingbridge, Cadac, Makasi Home, Paroh, Besp-Oak Furniture, Premier Decorations, La Hacienda, Petface, Su Bridge, Natures Menu, Unipet, Addis Homewares, Kettle Interiors, Wild & Wolf, RJB Stone, Hallmark Cards, Stormafit, Javado and Wyevale Nurseries.
Matthew Mein, Glee event director said: “Following on from last year’s show, which saw the industry come together for a bustling, profitable and leading event, Glee has reaffirmed itself as the place where the garden and leisure industry meets. We’ll be working extremely hard over the coming months to guarantee that Glee continues to hit the spot for the industry it represents. Part of this will be to ensure that the leading brands, top buyers and industry leaders will be attending en mass, as well as adding extra value through inspiration, innovation, networking and education.”
To make sure you don’t miss your place at Glee simply log onto the show’s dedicated website www.gleebirmingham.com and click on ‘register’.
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Bayer Garden is to exhibit its portfolio and marketing leading brands – Baby Bio, Phostrogen, Toprose and Provado – at Glee in September.
The company is returning to Glee to highlight its commitment to all its leading brands, share its exciting plans for the 2017 season and talk directly with customers about the future of the business.
“We are looking forward to returning to Glee,” explained Darren Brown, Head of Bayer Garden. “We have some incredibly strong brands and a very exciting future ahead of us.
"Attending Glee, the number one trade exhibition in the home and garden sector, gives us the perfect opportunity to share our plans with customers.”
In May, Bayer signed an agreement with SBM Développement (SBM) to acquire the Bayer Garden and Bayer Advanced businesses in Europe and North America. SBM is a France-based group of companies that develops, formulates and produces crop and non-crop solutions for professionals and consumers. The sale is expected to complete in October 2016. Until that point Bayer Garden will continue to operate as part of Bayer.
According to the agreement, as well as rights to the full Bayer Garden product portfolio, SBM will have access to the Bayer Garden R&D pipeline and, for a transitional period, Bayer will also continue to supply active ingredients to SBM on a contractual basis.
All current employees dedicated to the Bayer Garden business will transfer to SBM, providing strong leadership and business continuity throughout the transition and beyond.
Darren Brown, Head of Bayer Garden, explained: “SBM is the right company to grow the consumer home and garden businesses and serve our customers. SBM has the strategic mindset, commitment and deep consumer experience to achieve its vision of becoming a global leader in the home and garden business. Furthermore, its experience with biologic solutions, soils and fertilizers fully supports the desired extension of the Bayer home and garden portfolio for a stronger footprint in the market.”
Phostrogen and Baby Bio are registered trademarks of Bayer CropScience Ltd.
Provado is a registered trademark of Bayer Intellectual Property GmbH.
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Garden lighting lines helped to bolster sales although the GTN Bestsellers Garden Products Top 50 volumes are down considerably on the previous week (-27.5%). They were also well behind the same week in 2015 (-14.3%) and 2014 (22.5%).
The notable performances in the Top 50 were:
- Gardman Solar Post & Table Light Black Nickel was the highest climber, jumping 33 places to No 11.
- The highest re-entry was Gardman Solar Coach Light Lantern, 2 pack, at No 23.
- Scotts Levington Tomorite kept its place on top spot to show that some gardening activity is taking place.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
Strong sales week for herb and lettuce plants
Veg-2-Gro sales also saw a downturn in fortunes, -55.6% compared to the previous week. The continuing interest in herb growing was some slight comfort in the GTN Bestsellers Veg-2-Gro chart...
Veg-2-Gro sales also saw a downturn in fortunes, -55.6% compared to the previous week. The continuing interest in herb growing was some slight comfort in the GTN Bestsellers Veg-2-Gro chart.
The top performers this week were:
- Farplants Mint Moroccan was the highest new entry at No 24.
- Other new entries included Farplants Mint Epicure at No 40 and Colour Gro Healthy Herbs Pot Carrier Handled at No 46.
- The highest re-entry was Quantil Lettuce Mixed Baby Leaf Strips at No 3.
- The highest climber was Quantil Lettuce Little Gem Strips, moving up 26 places to No 2.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
Compost sales take a tumble during poor week
The GTN Bestsellers Growing Media chart reflected a poor sales week. However, Westland Gro-Sure Rose, Tree & Shrub Compost & 4 Month Feed (50 litres) returned to the Top 50...
The GTN Bestsellers Growing Media chart reflected a poor sales week. Volumes were down 42.4% on the previous week and behind the same period in 2015 (-33.4%) and 2014 (-18.4%).
This week’s Growing Media star performers were:
- The highest re-entry was Scotts Levington Original Compost (50 litres) at No 11.
- The highest climber was Growth Technology Orchid Focus Medium Compost (3 litres), jumping 16 places to No 16 in the chart.
- Westland Gro-Sure Rose, Tree & Shrub Compost & 4 Month Feed (50 litres) returned to the Top 50.
To subscribe to GTN Bestsellers email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
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Sue Loader, the garden designer at the landscaping and construction department of Stewarts Garden Centres, is to take early retirement.
It was in 1990 that Sue started as a retail assistant at Stewart’s Christchurch centre. Within a few years she had taken a year-long day course at the Kingston Maurward College for land-based studies near Dorchester, and having successfully designed and created gardens for private clients in her weekends, suggested to Martin Stewart, the MD, that a design and landscaping division would be a credible service to offer to customers.
The idea has been successful and now Sue, and fellow original team members, can claim over 590 happy garden owners proud of a beautiful and colourful designer space.
Sue says that many of her clients are not gardeners. Often when people move into the area, want their new home to have an outdoor space that is wildlife friendly whilst requiring little effort to keep tidy and still be where it is pleasing to spend time relaxing.
“I have particularly enjoyed designing gardens that need special attention to layers and levels. The challenge of making a space easier to work for those challenged with physical considerations, or fully wheel chair bound, is very satisfying when completed. A common sense approach to even a small space can make a big difference to the user.”
Now suffering with eyesight problems, Sue, aged 63, says that she hopes to spend more time on her small holding in the New Forest and with her grandchildren.
Managing Director Martin Stewart said that Sue will be a hard act to follow. “We sincerely wish Sue a happy retirement. As we start our recruitment process it is obvious what an eye for detail and a superb ability to listen is possessed by Sue.”
For information visit www.stewarts.co.uk
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With bookings for this year’s GIMA Awards exceeding all expectations those lucky enough to have bagged a spot will be entertained by top comedian, TV celebrity and actor Tim Vine.
A regular on the comedy circuit since the 1990’s Tim has won numerous awards throughout his career, but is just as well known for his TV appearances on ‘Live at The Apollo’, ‘QI’, ‘Celebrity Mastermind’, ‘Let’s Dance’ and ‘Let’s Play Darts’.
As well as appearing in various comedy acting roles, he famously appeared alongside Lee Mack in five series of the award winning TV show ‘Not Going Out’.
Tim will be hosting the hotly contested GIMA awards, entries for which are now closed. The winners will be announced at the GIMA Awards Gala Dinner on Thursday 14th July, which return to the Celtic Manor Resort, Newport South Wales.
Places are filling up fast, so don’t miss out on joining us to see who’s won this year’s top honours.
To book places at the Gala Dinner visit www.gima.org.uk/gima-awards.
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Wildlife World is set to exhibit at the New York Gift Fair for the first time in August.
The company returns to the US for the second time this year having exhibited at the National Hardware Show in Las Vegas in May. Over the past few years Wildlife World has expanded its presence in the US and is working with some of the largest retailers and distributors to offer its wide range of sustainable, wildlife-friendly products to the market.
To celebrate its first time exhibiting at the show, Wildlife World is giving away a ‘Save the Bee’ Rescue Pack as part of its campaign for the conservation of solitary bees, a friendly and very beneficial species for pollination. The promotion, running at the company’s booth, number 6409, gives one visitor the chance to win a ‘Save the Bee’ Rescue Pack to demonstrate just how easy it is to provide a suitable habitat to save the species from declining. A 20% discount voucher* will also be awarded to the winner for their first purchase with Wildlife World, and 10%* will be awarded to one runner up.
Within the pack is Wildlife World’s Education and Observational Solitary Beehive that is both a working habitat for the species and a great, high quality product for observing the nesting habits and lifecycle of solitary bees. The beehive is a triple chamber habitat and includes various nesting features, which can be removed or accessed for study and observation. The drilled canes will also attract many other beneficial garden insects, which also help to promote a thriving garden. In particular, the beehive features a stackable hive with removable trays to allow egg cells to be examined.
Wildlife World’s Ceramic Bumblebee Nester is also included within the pack to offer a suitable home for the species as they do not share the same habits as solitary bees. This particular habitat provides a larger open space for the species to swarm inside.
The bee rescue pack also includes a pack of bee management tubes to allow the winner to create their own solitary bee habitat.
The Education and Observational Solitary Beehive, along with other great products for the species including the Bee & Bug Biome and Pollinating Bee Mug are all part of the company’s growing range of bee habitats specially designed to provide a safe nesting place using the specially designed wooden tubes. The attractive designs and beneficial qualities of these products make them a very popular gift for all garden and wildlife lovers.
The company is committed to the conservation of species such as solitary bees and other beneficial garden insects, as well as garden birds, amphibians and small garden mammals. It is this commitment and determination to provide homes and products that are safe and valuable to these species which has earned the company its market-leading position in Europe.
A wide range of Wildlife World’s products will be displayed on the company’s stand at the NY Now show, including the award winning Urban Range for insects and birds. Comprising a bird nest box, feeder, butterfly house and bug house, the Urban Range was designed by Wildlife World to provide a habitat and feeding source for areas where very natural sources are not available. The design of the boxes, made from recycled plastic and sustainable timber, deliberately complements the aesthetics of city and urban environments, allowing wildlife lovers to attract their favourite species in these limited areas.
Other nest boxes will also be on display on the stand including Wildlife World’s colourful New England range. Available in pastel pink, lemon, blue and green, the nest boxes are based on New England beach huts making them a fun and delightful addition to any garden. Like the Urban Range, Wildlife World uses only sustainably sourced wood and water-based paints and sealants to create the boxes to ensure that the nesting birds are not exposed to any harmful chemicals.
Wildlife World also offers a delightful selection of bird feeding tables, which make a great accessory for all gardens and can be viewed on the company’s stand. The Swing Seat Feeder is a particularly popular product for feeding birds due to its striking rustic design based on the swinging garden chair. The open structure of the feeder allows gardeners to observe the birds whilst feeding. The feeder is very user friendly as it features a removable feeding hygiene tray which makes it very easy to clean and can be easily suspended from trees or other tall objects.
The Bempton Hanging Bird Table is another favourite due to its intricate lattice detail and attractive colours. Like the Swinging Seat Feeder, the Bempton table also features a removable feeding tray so that it can be kept clean and can be used for all types of food and bird species.
All of Wildlife World’s products make a great gift for all types of interests and lifestyles, with both hands-on active products, such as the customisable biomes and insect houses, and ready-made bird boxes and feeders available. To find out more about the company’s full range of gifts and products, visit them at booth 6409 at the show where you will also have the chance to enter the Solitary Bee competition!
Further information is available from Wildlife World on +44 1666 505333, by emailing james@wildlifeworld.co.uk or by visiting the company’s website at www.wildlifeworld.co.uk
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The GMA (Growing Media Association) and the HTA launched the pilot Responsible Sourcing Scheme for Growing Media at the National Plant Show.
Paul Alexander, head of Horticultural and Environmental Science for the RHS and Neil Bragg, director of Bulrush Horticulture spoke to manufacturers and retailers on the issues surrounding sourcing.
The purpose of the scheme is to "steadily introduce and increase an awareness of manufacturers’ impact upon the environment as a result of choices made regarding the components used in growing media".
The scheme will enable those manufacturers wishing to participate the ability to measure the components that make up particular products, enter those results into a calculator, which will then inform the manufacturer of their environmental impact.
GMA chairman Steve Harper said: "We launched the pilot scheme at the HTA National Plant Show to give everyone the opportunity to come and talk to us and sign-up to be kept informed about the scheme as it progresses.
"The pilot scheme itself is a very gentle first step in understanding what the situation is within the industry, and giving those who want them the tools to scientifically analyse the components within the volume and type of growing media. The longer term ambition is that manufacturers and retailers, as they understand the impact upon the environment, take steps to reduce their own footprint and join the audited scheme."
Raoul Curtis-Machin, Chair of the Growing Media Initiative, comments: “This scheme represents a step-change for the horticulture industry. It enables us to measure how well we are sourcing our production materials in growing media, in ethical human and environmental terms. It is a proud moment for everyone involved in making our industry more sustainable.”
The collated results will be analysed by the Steering Board of the Responsible Sourcing Scheme to understand the industry’s use of diluents in growing media.
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The June issue of Garden Trade News is packed full of advice and information for garden retailing professionals.
- Exclusive SOLEX Preview.
- Rreview of Chelsea Flower Show - Spotlight on new plant varieties.
- Garden industry has its say on the EU Referendum.
- Look ahead to the HTA National Plant Show.
- Great retailing tips from Rising Stars.
- Insights into property and planning.
- How a GIMA Award can launch a product to great success.
To find out how you can receive your copy of Garden Trade News every month email karen.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk
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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 £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 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 Veg-2-Gro 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.
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Get the GTN Bestsellers charts in full every week in the GTN Bestsellers newsletters delivered via the post 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 £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.
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It's very much business as usual at GIMA, says director Vicky Nuttall, following the announcement that Britain has chosen to leave the EU...
