In This Issue
Suttons Seeds acquired by T&M
Lockdown 2 hits sales, but volumes still ahead of last year
Festive announce Christmas 2021 showroom opening dates
Not your average garden centre - Dobbies launch Christmas Ad Campaign
Fosseway Garden Centre make the right choice with Corby & Fellas’ WinRetail system
Lockdown 2 leaves garden centre car parks empty after record sales for October
‘New Gardeners’ fuel record October plant sales
LOFA reports severe disruption at UKs three main container ports
Primus expands with new sales team
2020 is declared a ‘record year’ for compost by The Greener Gardening Company
Why gardening is a lifesaver in lockdown
Ivyline commits to eradicating plastic packaging
Neudorff announces climate-neutral production
DJ Turfcare’s new Autumn Lawn Treatment now endorsed by the Royal Horticultural Society
BPOA & Peter Seabrook continue to fund young talent
Plant Based Podcast TV sparks gardening joy
Spring Fair to be replaced by "Spring Fair @Home" on the Spring Fair website
Get your own copy of GTN Xtra
Garden centre offers £200 reward after theft
RHS confirms gardens will remain open
Real gardening activity shifts sales
Blue Skies in Lockdown at Vitavia
October Christmas drops by 13%
‘Meet’ Rolawn online at the first ever FutureScape VIRTUAL event
Will 'New Gardeners' be as active on Wildlife and Wild Bird Care?
Composite Prime launches reward scheme for installers and stockists
Napoleon Grills to sponsor Kitchen Stage at Camp Carfest 2021
The best of last week's
Garden centres in England and Scotland can stay open - now is the time to review Covid-19 safety
Kaemingk to open UK showroom
British Garden Centres open their 58th centre at Thatcham
Westland rolls out innovative new hosepipe technology
Retail Equipment Limited acquire Greenkey Garden & Home
Garden Centre Photo Tours
Haskins Snowhill re-opens after £15m re-vamp
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week
Buy your subscription to the GTN Bestsellers printed weekly newsletter
All the latest news from the world of pet products
Bringing the outside in for naturally happy pets with Penny & Pepe
Meat-first ingredients in new Wagg range
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Suttons Seeds acquired by T&M

Thompson and Morgan (T&M) has announced that it has acquired 100% of the share capital of Suttons Seeds Ltd and its 3 brands: Suttons, Dobies and the Organic Catalogue...


Thompson and Morgan (T&M) has announced that it has acquired 100% of the share capital of Suttons Seeds Ltd and its 3 brands: Suttons, Dobies and the Organic Catalogue.

 

Chris Wright (Joint MD at Thompson and Morgan) said "Thompson and Morgan (T&M) is pleased to announce that it has acquired 100% of the share capital of Suttons Seeds Ltd and its 3 brands: Suttons, Dobies and the Organic Catalogue.

 

"Suttons will remain in Paignton, its traditional home.

 

"The combined horticulture, ecommerce and multi-channel marketing skills of these renowned brands are forecast to generate over £80m in revenues in FY21 dwarfing the nearest online competitor and enabling the group to offer consumers the largest range, best prices and service to the gardener”.

 

David Robinson, MD at Suttons Seeds added: "We are delighted that Suttons has found a new home with Thompson and Morgan which not only ensures the continued growth and success of Suttons but also retains the business in Paignton.

 

"Rufus Roberts and I have enjoyed the enormous privilege to own and run this wonderful company since 2014 during which time we have worked with an incredible team of people who will now continue their journey with T&M after a short handover from ourselves”. 

 

The acquisition coincides with the launch of the T&M Marketplace. A brand new, custom built platform that allows Thompson & Morgan’s partners in the horticulture industry, including garden centres and growers, to sell their products through the market leading T&M website. The website generates over 30 million visits per year, providing a platform for the gardening industry to sell their products to an active buying audience. Suttons have already signed up and discussions are well underway with a number of preferred partners.

 

 

Lockdown 2 hits sales, but volumes still ahead of last year

Garden Centre sales volumes dropped by 2.6% on the previous week as Lockdown 2 came into effect in England...


Garden Centre sales volumes dropped by 2.6% on the previous week as Lockdown 2 came into effect in England.

 

Early top line analysis of the GTN Bestsellers weekly garden centre Epos data for the week ending 8th November 2020 shows total volume sales up 10.6% on the same week last year despite reports of low footfall from Thursday onwards.

 

See the full analysis of last weeks garden centre sales in the GTN Bestsellers printed newsletter at the end of this week.

 

Subscribe to the GTN Besellers printed newsletter for £145.00 per year using this link

Festive announce Christmas 2021 showroom opening dates
GTN Xtra Promotion

Festive’s main 2021 showroom at their head office in Wales will be opening from 30th November 2020, they will be holding their hotly anticipated 2 week VIP preview event to unveil next year’s collection to the trade between the 7-11th and 14-18th December.  Festive will also be opening their Enfield (London) showroom earlier than usual next year too, this is scheduled to open on 18th January 2021...


Whilst there’s still great uncertainty all around us, one thing is for certain, Christmas is coming, and the show must go on!

 

The Festive team are looking to do everything they can to ensure trading with them next year will be as stress free as possible and they are planning for every eventuality.

 

Festive’s main 2021 showroom at their head office in Wales will be opening from 30th November 2020, they will be holding their hotly anticipated 2 week VIP preview event to unveil next year’s collection to the trade between the 7-11th and 14-18th December.

 

Festive will also be opening their Enfield (London) showroom earlier than usual next year too, this is scheduled to open on 18th January 2021.  

 

Many buyers have already made appointments during December and January, please be sure to contact them to secure your appointment ASAP – 01633 627 300 or email info@festive.co.uk

 

Festive is adhering to strict Government guidelines and has published a list of measures to keep all visitors safe and secure.  The full list of measures along with their 2021 launch plans can be downloaded here

CLICK HERE

 

Festive is investing heavily in a 3D showroom tour, this will allow customers to view their entire showroom either with a salesperson or independently and this is scheduled to launch in December

 

The showroom tour will also feature a way to place orders in conjunction with Festive’s industry leading online trade ordering website which will be updated with their 2021 collection in December.

 

Festive’s UK wide Field Sales Team and Customer Support Centre is also on hand to manage all available questions and queries; If you would like further information on how to order with them for 2021 please get in touch on 01633 627 300 or email info@festive.co.uk

 

 

Not your average garden centre - Dobbies launch Christmas Ad Campaign
Dobbies unveils Christmas advertising campaign for 2020

Dobbies have unveiled their brand-new Christmas advertising campaign. The Joy of Dobbies brings to life the magical experience of a trip to Dobbies during the festive period. Strategically, the campaign also launches Dobbie’s new positioning, Not Your Average Garden Centre...


Dobbies have unveiled their brand-new Christmas advertising campaign. The Joy of Dobbies brings to life the magical experience of a trip to Dobbies during the festive period.

 

Impactful and unexpected, there are three hero TV ads which feature their own unique characters including Freddie the poodle enjoying the wind in his fur as he sledges down a mountain, Elaine living out her on-stage fantasy while it’s raining mince pies and Brian indulging in a creamy hot chocolate in a hot tub overflowing with Christmas baubles.

 

All are an entertaining ode to the fact that nothing that beats the feeling of a trip to Dobbies at Christmas and feature original scores from acclaimed Jazz musician, Ola Onabulé.

 

Strategically, the campaign also launches Dobbie’s new positioning, Not Your Average Garden Centre.

 

 

 

 

Graeme Jenkins, CEO of Dobbies said: “This year’s Christmas adverts have a fresh creative approach. Our research has shown that more than a fifth of Brits are more excited about Christmas than ever before and we’ve tried to capture that magic of the festive season through our ads and put a smile on consumers’ faces.

 

“Our diverse seasonal offering from gifts and decorations, trees and houseplants, to food and cookware essentials mean we offer consumers a convenient and enjoyable Christmas shopping experience.”

 

The campaign is the first from London-based retail specialist ODD, who were appointed early this year as Dobbies’ creative and strategic agency.

 

Nick Sickland, Executive Creative Director of ODD, said: “For the Christmas fan, a festive trip to the garden centre is a quintessential part of the winter calendar. We wanted to help Dobbies own this pilgrimage in a way that felt different and standout in the competitive landscape that is TV Christmas. We're excited to help spread the joy of shopping at Dobbies nationwide.”

 

Mince Pie Dancer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTFb6oauCh4

Festive Thrills: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtfTzmwHBhs

Decoration Indulgence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkHRxgCmbw0



Survey of 2,007 nationally representative UK respondents (aged 16+) undertaken in October 2020 by Censuswide.

 

Fosseway Garden Centre make the right choice with Corby & Fellas’ WinRetail system
GTN Xtra Promotion

Fosseway Garden Centre is a large, family-run centre based in the Cotswolds, which was established by Tim and Gill Godwin in 1990. The company recently made the decision to move from a cloud-based EPoS/Retail Management system to Corby & Fellas’ WinRetail package. Here's what managing director Tim Godwin had to say about the success of the system...


Fosseway Garden Centre is a large, family-run centre based in the Cotswolds, which was established by Tim and Gill Godwin in 1990. The company recently made the decision to move from a cloud-based EPoS/Retail Management system to Corby & Fellas’ WinRetail package.

 

Managing director Tim Godwin wrote:  “We moved to Corby & Fellas on 24th of August 2020, having spent some considerable time looking at many of the retail systems available. We were looking for a sturdy and reliable partner to provide us with a system to run a modern-day garden centre, and I’m pleased to say that I’m sure that we’ve made the right choice.  

 

"Corby & Fellas is a well-respected name in the industry, with a proven track record and, in my opinion, a clear a sense of direction.

 

"My view was reinforced by the positive feedback that I received from Yarnton, Whitehall and The Old Railway Line Garden Centres, who all felt that WinRetail was a reliable ‘workhorse’, that is well supported and has good customer back-up.

 

"The transition from our old system to WinRetail was generally smooth, although there were, inevitably, a few teething issues as the system ‘bedded’ in, but these were quickly resolved with the support of C&F’s installation team. 

 

"I thought that the training was very good, although we will probably need a bit more as we continue to expand our use of the system, embracing new ways of working and getting to grips with WinRetail’s many features.  

 

"We really appreciate the reliability of the system, and everyone loves using it. I especially like the fact that we can view up-to-date reports on our smartphones. This gives us a great deal of useful analytical information that we can very easily ‘mine’; especially helpful when evaluating the success of our loyalty schemes.

 

"We have come to realise that many of the requirements, that we’d been told were unique to us were, in fact, not. We can now achieve things with WinRetail that were simply not possible with our old system. 

 

"I would say that Corby & Fellas is a good, proactive company and that they and their software are living up to our expectations.”

 

https://www.corbyfellas.com/

Lockdown 2 leaves garden centre car parks empty after record sales for October
Exclusive GTN Bestsellers Epos data analysis

Half term sales in garden centres pushed total volumes for October to a new record level, up 11.5% on October last year and 8% ahead of the previous month high set in 2017, but Lockdown 2 meant empty garden centre car parks this weekend as pictured at Langlands Shiptonthorpe on Saturday at 1:30pm...

 


Half term sales in garden centres pushed total volumes for October to a new record level, up 11.5% on October last year and 8% ahead of the previous month high set in 2017, but Lockdown 2 meant empty garden centre car parks this weekend as pictured at Langlands Shiptonthorpe on Saturday at 1:30pm.

 

While Christmas sales accelerated during half term, GTN Bestsellers volume sales from Epos data reports Top 50 Christmas volumes down by 13%, the stars of the show for October were Growing Media and plant sales.

 

Growing Media sales volumes were up by 45% on last year and plants up by 19% with Veg 2 Gro sales for the month up by 54%.

 

Early feedback from garden centres over the first weekend of Lockdown 2 was that after two very quiet days on Thursday and Friday business started to pick up at the weekend but with gardening as the main reason for visiting and making purchases.

 

Watch this space for GTN Bestsellers analysis of week 45 sales which we will publish as an update as soon as all of the Epos data is submitted and collated.

 

GTN Bestsellers Top 50 sales volumes compared to the same week last year: week 44

  • Garden Products Top 50 – down 18%
  • Growing Media Top 50 – up 43%
  • Veg 2 Gro Top 50 – up 99%
  • Wild Bird & Wildlife Care Top 50 – up 5%
  • Christmas Top 50 – down 3%

GTN Bestsellers All Sales volumes compared to the same week last year: week 44

  • All Plants with Barcode index – up 12%
  • All Items with Barcode index – up 11%

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

‘New Gardeners’ fuel record October plant sales

Record October plant sales continue to underline the reality of ‘New Gardeners’ being active in the market...


 

Record October plant sales continue to underline the reality of ‘New Gardeners’ being active in the market.

 

Volume plant sales were up for the month by 19% on last year and 9% above our previous recorded highest in 2016. Cyclamen were the overall bestselling plants of the month.

 

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

LOFA reports severe disruption at UKs three main container ports

Congestion is causing severe disruptions at the UKs three main container ports. This is troubling news for LOFA members and the industry as a whole with leisure products starting to hit ports as early as December. The lack of space and container issues will result in price hikes coming in as early as next week...


“It will get worse before it gets better” say LOFA.

 

Congestion is causing severe disruptions at the UKs three main container ports. LOFA members are seeing shipping lines not being allowed to return empty containers to the ports because they have exceeded their agreed allocations. Consequently, ports are putting a block on them returning any further containers in an attempt to prevent congestion at the terminals.  In the past shipping lines have used surrounding off quay container yards for overspill storage but this again is an issue because container yards do not operate the same hours as the ports.

 

Major congestion disruptions and misery at all three ports, Felixstowe, Southampton and London are being further compounded by the added introduction of COVID 19 measures.

 

Right now, the situation is worsening, this crisis is expected to continue into next year, or until there is a let up in the current volume levels, which is leading to carrier companies introducing port congestion surcharges.

 

This lack of space and container issues will result in price hikes coming in as early as next week.  This crisis has led to many carriers refusing bookings to the UK and even talks of UK ports being omitted on some vessel rotations. The container capacity issues in the market will inevitably lead to substantial increases to sea freight costs, and the lack of availability will also lead to delays in the delivery of containers to UK destinations. 

 

The situation will become worse before it gets better for logistic providers and UK importers.  It is hoped that the current backlog does not continue into Chinese New Year so that business can recover by the time we reach February 2021 and if not by the time we are all faced with the challenges that Brexit will bring.

 

This is troubling news for LOFA members and the industry as a whole, leisure products start to hit ports as early as December.  The UK appears to be in a particularly difficult position, the congestion and delays which appeared to impact Felixstowe initially has now spread to other ports, resulting in some vessels having to “cut and run’ before discharging containers.  The UK port issues have now led to one or two carriers unofficially communicating their refusal to take bookings to the UK from Asian locations during November. It will therefore follow that their vessels will not be calling at UK ports. 

 

Of course, the peak season, which has been heightened by six months of global trade being pushed into four this year, cannot be expected to continue indefinitely and is usually driven by Black Friday and Christmas sales. So, at some time, in the not too distant future, there must be some much-needed respite for UK ports and business, that said, with COVID-19 starting to peak once more, the current national lockdown and Brexit on the horizon, the next few months are still likely to be extremely challenging time for industry as a whole.

 

www.lofa.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Primus expands with new sales team

Primus, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of handcrafted and eye-catching gifts for the home and garden, is going from strength to strength with a significant expansion to its sales team; having made nine new full time appointments over the summer...


 

Primus, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of handcrafted and eye-catching gifts for the home and garden, is going from strength to strength with a significant expansion to its sales team; having made nine new full time appointments over the summer.

 

Highly recognised and renowned within the industry already, the new appointments firmly bolster the Primus sales team for what is set to be a record-breaking year for the firm.  Having successfully broken the £1m turnover barrier this year, the future is certainly looking buoyant with exciting times ahead.

 

The new additions to Primus give the brand increased penetration across the UK with Matt Thomasson, Mark Lucas, Stuart Denholm, Richard Knights, Andy Looby, Andy Mold, Ed Willoughby, Peter McAlister and Stephen Manns setting their sights firmly on increased brand awareness and increased brand presence in outlets across the UK and Ireland. 

 

Steve Perry, Head of Marketing at Primus, said: “This is a pivotal time for Primus where we feel we now have the necessary blocks in place and firm foundations to grow significantly, yet sustainably over the coming 12 months; and it is a pleasure to have the new team on board who all share our vision and goals.  The ethos at Primus is to consistently bring something new to the market which doesn’t compromise on quality and we feel we can achieve that and more with the new team onboard.”

2020 is declared a ‘record year’ for compost by The Greener Gardening Company

Leading growing media supplier The Greener Gardening Company has hailed 2020 as a record year for sales of its portfolio of peat-reduced and peat-free growing media, despite the immense challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic...


 

 

Leading growing media supplier The Greener Gardening Company has hailed 2020 as a record year for sales of its portfolio of peat-reduced and peat-free growing media, despite the immense challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

 

The company behind the innovative Happy Compost, Growise and Richmoor growing media brands hit the equivalent of 2019’s entire turnover within the first six months of 2020, as demand for compost skyrocketed due to the soaring popularity of gardening during lockdown and throughout the ongoing pandemic.

 

The Greener Gardening Company’s National Sales Manager, Jason Pike, said: “We have witnessed a massive increase in demand from not only from our existing customer base, but from new customers who are eager to stock the 100% peat-free Happy Compost brand, which is being doubled in size for 2021 to help retail outlets drive growth. Pre-season orders have been exceptionally strong – already double the number of orders that we would normally receive at this point in the calendar. This heightened demand is a clear vote of confidence from retailers in The Greener Gardening Company’s product offering, with current retail outlets and new stockists taking steps now to ensure that they’re prepared for the expected upturn in business when next year’s gardening season gets under way.”

 

Not only has demand for growing media surpassed all expectations, but the sales season has extended well beyond its traditional spring and early summer peaks – with orders for compost flooding in late into September. The company’s freshest brand, Happy Compost, has been at the leading edge of delivering growth, as Jason Pike explains: “Within the garden centre sector alone, we have seen a seven-fold increase in peat-free YTD, alongside huge rises in peat-free sold through all channels. The Happy Compost brand is at the forefront of this revolution and, by providing garden retailers with a real point of difference and a genuinely innovative and cutting edge brand, the drive to increase volumes of eco-friendly growing media has gained unstoppable momentum.”

 

To assist retailers in captitalising on expected growth in compost categories during 2021, the Happy Compost range will expand for next season, with new products including Enriched Top Soil, Farmyard Manure, Lawn Soil, Composted Bark and three grades of Chip Bark being added to the Happy brand, renowned for its distinctive livery and commitment to helping retailers and consumers to realise their peat-free ambitions.

 

Earlier this autumn, The Greener Gardening Company reported that sales in June were up by 41% compared to the same month in 2019, while July came in at 98% up on budget, as retail outlets sought to obtain additional stocks of quality growing media to satisfy huge consumer demand post-lockdown.

 

With Covid-19 resurgent in many regions of the UK, presenting further challenges for retail outlets in affected areas, The Greener Gardening Company is confident that its strategy of continuing with 24-hour production well into autumn will ensure that substantially enhanced levels of garden centre stock will be the ground by Christmas, enabling retailers to place orders with confidence ahead of the 2021 season.

 

Find out more

To find out more about The Greener Gardening Company’s leading range, please visit www.thegreenergardener.com

Why gardening is a lifesaver in lockdown

Squire’s Garden Centres recently ran a survey in which 93% of people questioned said that gardening was a “lifesaver” during lockdown in spring. With the second national lockdown in place, getting out in the garden is going to be just as important to people’s mental health and wellbeing this time around...


 

Squire’s Garden Centres recently ran a survey in which 93% of people questioned said that gardening was a “lifesaver” during lockdown in spring. With the second national lockdown in place, getting out in the garden is going to be just as important to people’s mental health and wellbeing this time around.

 

Gardening is good for the mind, body and soul. It gets you outside in the fresh air, it’s great exercise, and improving the look of your garden will definitely cheer you up. Gardening is also a fantastic way to relax and de-stress. 78% of people questioned in Squire’s survey said that gardening gave them a sense of achievement, 75% felt calm and relaxed, and 66% said gardening makes them feel happy.

 

With garden centres remaining open throughout lockdown here are some ideas of what you can get up to in the garden:

 

Plant

Now is the perfect time to plant, as the soil is still warm from the summer sun and moist from autumn rain.

  • Winter colour – put life back into your beds & containers with violas, pansies and cyclamen
  • Herbs - for your Christmas dinner, sage, thyme or parsley would all be good
  • Vegetables – try easy to grow cabbage, kale, onions, Brussel sprouts, broad beans or peas
  • Bulbs - for spectacular colour next spring

Projects

  • Tidy – sweep the leaves, clear out the shed, clean pots and garden furniture
  • Prune – fruit trees and shrubs to encourage more fruit and flowers next year
  • Mulch – to help soil retain moisture and to keep weeds away
  • Protect - plants in containers by ensuring pots have drainage holes in the bottom, and stand them on pot feet so that excess water drains away
  • Encourage wildlife – feed birds & hedgehogs, build or a buy a bug house or hedgehog home

Make The Most Of Your Outdoor Space

  • BBQ - Have a winter BBQ
  • Blankets - Keep cosy blankets to hand to ensure that you are warm and snug
  • Lights - Add sparkle to your garden with solar lights
  • Outdoor Heating - Buy a firepit, chimenea or patio heater for style and warmth
  • Colour - Add instant colour to your garden with ready-planted pots and containers

“Gardening was undoubtedly a lifesaver for many people during the first lockdown,” said Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres.

 

“Following the latest government announcement of the new national restrictions, our garden centres and Food Halls, along with other retailers providing essential goods and services can remain open. 

 

"We are delighted that the government recognises the benefits of gardening in supporting physical and mental wellbeing.

 

"So whether you need help with your gardening projects, want to attract more wildlife in your garden, brighten up your pots with some lovely autumn colour, or need food for your pets, then Squire’s Garden Centres are here for you 7 days a week with free parking. 

 

"Our number one priority is the safety of our teams and customers and we will continue to operate with our strict Covid-19 secure measures.”

 
Ivyline commits to eradicating plastic packaging

Ivyline, a leading UK supplier of inspired collections for the garden and home, has confirmed that it has taken significant steps to reduce plastic within its packaging for end-user products...


 

As part of its ongoing mission to become a more environmentally responsible business, Ivyline, a leading UK supplier of inspired collections for the garden and home, has confirmed that it has taken significant steps to reduce plastic within its packaging for end-user products.

 

Like many suppliers, Ivyline utilised single-use plastic to safely package products to minimise damage whilst in transit, however the company recognised that this waste product was contributing to a much bigger environmental issue. Following a period of significant development and consideration, Ivyline is now pleased to confirm that this plastic has now been fully replaced with recyclable paper on all online products. This one small change will help the company to remove hundreds of thousands of metres of plastic packaging from reaching UK waste sites every year.

 

Scott Thomas, Managing Director at Ivyline, said: “The detrimental impact of single-use plastic upon the environment has been well documented in recent years and we knew that we had to respond accordingly. As a leading supplier, and one that is consumer facing, we felt we had the responsibility to demonstrate that a move to more sustainable solutions was achievable without negatively impacting our service or product quality. For us, this move away from single-use plastic is the beginning of a much bigger journey for our company and one which we are dedicated to building on in the future.”

 

 

Sustainable manufacturing with ethically audited factories

Further to reducing reliance on single-use plastics, Ivyline has also confirmed that it is moving away from Chinese-based manufacturing partners. Instead, the company will now be channelling its efforts into supporting fast producing European-based suppliers as well as investing into new countries of manufacture instead. This has been a huge investment in tooling costs, new production lines, new moulds and R&D.

 

Scott Thomas added: “It’s really important to us as a business to know the origins of our products and to support manufacturers that place importance on sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. Whilst China was able to deliver volume, the ethical side of manufacturing is increasingly difficult to measure and as a result we felt that it was imperative to move forwards with partners that provide visibility on their approach to ensuring ethical and sustainable complaint processes. We are confident that our new partners hold similar values to our own and hope that this move by ourselves will help to start a change which will see others move away from a reliance on China, instead investing into other countries that hold quality of manufacture and support for people and the environment of equal importance. We are looking forward to working with our new factories and seeing the return on our huge investment as we develop the Ivyline offering in the coming years.”

Reducing Carbon

In addition to moving away from traditional supply routes Ivyline is focussed on reducing its carbon footprint. The reduction in miles travelled on core ranges is up to 70% which has a huge impact on the environment. Focussing on fast producing clean manufactures closer to home, benefits the retailer as well as their environmentally conscious customers. 

 

Find out more

To find out more about Ivyline please visit www.ivylinegb.co.uk where you will see the company’s full product offering including indoor and outdoor planters, plant and planter combos, water features, firepits and trendsetting cacti pots and terrariums, or email sales@ivylinegb.co.uk

Neudorff announces climate-neutral production

 

Neudorff, manufacturer of environmentally friendly products for plant care and natural gardening, has achieved its ambition of becoming climate-neutral at all of its production sites...


Neudorff, manufacturer of environmentally friendly products for plant care and natural gardening, has achieved its ambition of becoming climate-neutral at all of its production sites.

 

A combination of resource-saving production processes, in addition to the company's own energy generation through photovoltaics, hydropower and a combined heat and power plant, have helped the gardening pioneer to turn its climate-neutral target into reality. It is compensating for additional emissions that are still generated by supporting a climate protection project in Rwanda.

 

Neudorff has many roof areas that are used for photovoltaic systems, and the old mill produces power from the Emmer river, thanks to a modern turbine. These and many other measures have enabled the medium-sized, owner-operated company to significantly reduce its carbon footprint. But until now, the goal of climate-neutral production had not yet been fully achieved. This is why the company is announcing its support of the Virunga Mountain Gorilla Project; a scheme based near the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

 

Of roughly 1000 mountain gorillas left in the world, around 600 live in the Virunga Mountains in this park. The neighbouring villagers gather wood for their cooking fires every day in the national park. Deforestation of the rainforest has endangered mountain gorillas living in this area, while there is also a risk of infection posed by the proximity to humans.

 

To enhance protection for gorrillas living in the region, up to 50,000 households around the national park will be supplied with a low-priced cooker made in Rwanda. The cooker uses a third of the firewood required for a traditional open fireplace.

 

Use of this cooker will reduce CO2 emissions, while locals will require less wood and therefore spend less time and money on its procurement. Children can go to school and families have more time to increase their income by selling home-made baskets and other goods.

 

Neudorff, which has a proven track record in supporting conservation initiatives, is dedicated to backing the Virunga Mountain Gorilla Project – an initiative that supports 10 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals outlined by the United Nations – while its commitment to the project will compensate for any surplus emissions that arise from the company’s production processes. Neudorff remains committed to achieving even greater levels of sustainability in the future and its support of the Rwanda project represents a significant milestone in the company’s ambition to set new benchmarks for environmental protection.

 

Neudorff products are available at UK garden centres. Further information about Neudorff and its range of products for natural gardening can be found at www.neudorff.co.uk

 
DJ Turfcare’s new Autumn Lawn Treatment now endorsed by the Royal Horticultural Society

DJ Turfcare’s newest organic based product introduction – Autumn Lawn Treatment – has gained endorsement from the Royal Horticultural Society.


DJ Turfcare’s newest organic based product introduction – Autumn Lawn Treatment – has already proven popular with retailers and the public since its launch in August 2020. Now this popularity is expected to extend even further as it has been confirmed that Autumn Lawn Treatment has gained endorsement from the leading gardening charity, the Royal Horticultural Society.

 

Autumn Lawn Treatment becomes the fifth product in the DJ Turfcare portfolio to receive this prestigious accolade. From 2021 each 10kg bag of Autumn Lawn Treatment will bear the highly recognisable RHS logo, which DJ Turfcare knows helps to drive consumer confidence at the point of purchase.

 

Talking about the latest endorsement, DJ Turfcare’s David Jenkins said: “We are extremely pleased that the Autumn Lawn Treatment has been recognised by the RHS and consider it a great honour to see our latest innovation join such a veritable line-up of products. We know that the RHS only puts its name against products which are proven to deliver results and align with the organisation’s own ethos of gardening enriching lives and enhancing the garden environment, and we are proud to support this. 

 

“The RHS endorsement also provides a significant opportunity for our retail customers. The endorsement helps to showcase the quality and effectiveness of the product, making it a much easier stocking decision. The endorsement also provides consumers with a recognisable point of difference which helps to drive peace of mind, repeat custom and brand loyalty.”

 

DJ Turfcare’s new Autumn Lawn Treatment

Simply put, Autumn Lawn Treatment 6-6-16 (+2) MgO – exclusively available from DJ Turfcare - is the first defence against the ravages of winter and is designed to prepare the lawn for the spring.  Like its popular Recovery product, DJ Turfcare’s new Autumn Lawn Treatment will benefit from the inclusion of Humifirst. This unique ingredient creates biological activity and acts as a plant growth stimulant, making it perfect to use as an autumn lawn treatment.  Autumn Lawn Treatment is safe to use around pets and children.

 

DJ Turfcare’s wider organic-based product offering includes the bestselling RHS-endorsed MO Bacter, MO Bacter Instant, Recovery and Bio-Lime. All products are supported by quick delivery within five days.

 

Find out more

To start stocking DJ Turfcare’s latest offering or to top-up your latest order, please contact the team by calling (01483 200976) or by visiting  www.djturfcare.co.uk

BPOA & Peter Seabrook continue to fund young talent

The British Protected Ornamentals Association (BPOA) and Peter Seabrook continue this year to offer young horticulturists a £1,000 bursary to support the study of commercial horticulture and encourage new entrants to the industry...


The British Protected Ornamentals Association (BPOA) and Peter Seabrook continue this year to offer young horticulturists a £1,000 bursary to support the study of commercial horticulture and encourage new entrants to the industry.


The bursary, which is part of the David Colegrave Foundation Scholarship Season, is also available to schools and horticultural colleges to finance trips for students over 16 years of age to leading commercial horticultural establishments.
A number of students have benefitted from this award in recent years.


Earlier this year, it was awarded to Argyll College UHI to support a field trip for its HNC and HND Horticulture students. The trip was to be taken in 2020; now due to the Covid19 pandemic it has been necessarily delayed and will take place in 2021. The students plan to visit commercial ornamental producers to get hands on experience of working at a nursery. Amber Crowley, Curriculum Development Officer - Horticulture at Argyll College UHI, said: "Visiting leading horticultural establishments will give the students some insight into this industry sector which they otherwise might not experience. This will be an invaluable experience for the students."


James Pike, a grower at Hortico Plant Centre in Pinkney, Sherson won a bursary in 2019 while studying as a mature student at Wiltshire College & University Centre in Lackham. He said: “Receiving this award was fantastic news. Going back to college as an adult after having worked in horticulture for over ten years was a great experience and the DCF scholarship really helped take the financial pressure off too.”


Gabor Lukoviczki (pictured above) a grower at Lovania Nurseries won in 2018 while studying at Myerscough College. He said, “My training is really important to me as it is helping me become a better grower and opening up opportunities for further development. I recommend other keen horticulturists to apply.”


Connor Deacon won in 2017 while studying for a BSc International Horticulture at Nottingham Trent University. He said: “This award has helped in a number of areas; from general student bills, as well as allowing me to participate in a number of events, further my education and broaden my knowledge.”


Scholarship season is open until 31 January 2021. There are six scholarships available and to enter applicants simply need to complete an application form which they can do online.


Colleges and garden businesses are encouraged to get on board and get their horticulture students to apply.


To apply visit www.davidcolegravefoundation.org.uk

 
Plant Based Podcast TV sparks gardening joy

The chart-topping Plant Based Podcast has the lockdown answer with the latest series of Plant Based Podcast TV, helping people continue their love of gardening from the comfort of the sofa. As the cold nights draw in, gardeners can reach for their phone instead of their garden tools...


The popularity of gardening rocketed during lockdown. Now, as we enter lockdown once again, but this time with winter approaching, the thought of getting outside and gardening might not appeal quite so much.

 

The chart-topping Plant Based Podcast has the answer with the latest series of Plant Based Podcast TV, helping people continue their love of gardening from the comfort of the sofa. As the cold nights draw in, gardeners can reach for their phone instead of their garden tools.

 

 

The YouTube show is a spin-off of the popular The Plant Based Podcast, and is hosted by plant fanatics Michael Perry and Ellen Mary, all aimed at helping people appreciate the importance of plants and nature in our day to day lives. It comes hot off the heels of a shortlisting for The Roy Lancaster TV Broadcast or Podcast of the Year at the Garden Media Guild Awards 2020.

 

Plant Based Podcast TV, now in its second series, brings entertaining snippets of gardening joy in short episode episodes of around five minutes in length. The content of the show is a mixture of everything and anything plant based. In it, Michael and Ellen step away from the usual interview format of the podcast and instead present engaging and educational content in same the light-hearted way that their podcast listeners love.

 

Episodes to date have included pun-tastic gardening jokes, how to create an autumn planter and a Halloween themed flower craft lesson. Upcoming episodes include new vegetable varieties, US fall style decorations and Houseplant trends.

 

Ellen Mary commented: “We’re taking a break from the podcast at the moment, gearing up for series four which will launch early next year but in the meantime, we wanted to keep creating something for people to enjoy. It’s easy watching, with short episodes to help people keep their love of gardening going! There are tips and how-to garden pieces but it’s mainly about celebrating plants and having some fun which is what we all need at the moment!”

 

Watch Plant Based Podcast TV on YouTube.

Spring Fair to be replaced by "Spring Fair @Home" on the Spring Fair website

 

Due to new UK government restrictions on the reopening of business conferences and exhibition halls, Spring Fair will no longer take place in February 2021...


Hyve Group, the organiser of Spring Fair, the UK’s leading destination for home and gift retail, together with the co-located Jewellery & Watch and Fashion (JWF) and Glee at Spring Fair announce today changes to the scheduled event in 2021.

 

Moda, the national footwear show, also organised by Hyve and planned to co-locate at Spring Fair 2021 also announce today changes to its scheduled 2021 event.

 

Due to new UK government restrictions on the reopening of business conferences and exhibition halls, Spring Fair will no longer take place in February 2021.

 

The next planned home, gift and fashion retail event will be Autumn Fair, together with Moda, at the NEC Birmingham on 5th-8th September 2021, while Spring Fair will return as an in-person event, 6th-10th February 2022.

 

Hyve and the team behind Spring Fair, JWF, Glee at Spring Fair and Moda are now working to deliver an enhanced virtual forum with product features and exclusive seminar content designed to educate and inform participants. More information on “Spring Fair @Home” will be available on the Spring Fair website, while “Fashion Together” can be found on the Moda website in due course.

 

Julie Driscoll, Managing Director – UK Retail says, “While it is regrettable that we won’t be able to meet in person at Spring Fair and Moda in February due to the new UK government rules, we are incredibly excited to host Spring Fair @Home and Fashion Together. Following the success of this year’s virtual forums, we’re looking forward to providing our clients and customers another touchpoint to be inspired and stay connected with the retail industry.”

 

Ian Taylor, Managing Director – NEC Group Conventions & Exhibitions, says: “We’re saddened to not be welcoming the retail community to the NEC for Spring Fair in February 2021, but are pleased to hear that retail professionals and suppliers will still have an opportunity to connect with each other in early 2021, albeit in a virtual environment with Spring Fair @Home. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the NEC in person for Autumn Fair and Moda in September 2021, with Spring Fair itself returning in February 2022.”

 

Sarah Ward, Chief Executive, The Giftware Association says, Spring Fair @Home will be a great networking opportunity for the industry and a chance for businesses to stay connected. I am delighted that we are able to host the Gift of the Year 2021 Awards with Spring Fair as part of the virtual forum.”

 

Will Jones, Chief Operating Officer, Bheta says, “Spring Fair is an important platform, not only for BHETA members but also for the retail industry in the UK. I am very much looking forward to continuing our support and working together for Spring Fair @Home, and into 2021.”

 

Spring Fair continues to provide exclusive webinars, industry news and product updates that keeps the home and gift retail community informed, connected and inspired on The Community hub.

 

Spring Fair is a global power brand with international reach. A definitive marketplace for the home and gift retail industry. Located in the centre of the UK, at the NEC in Birmingham, Spring Fair provides an easily accessible destination for retail professionals and suppliers to meet every February, at the very start of the buying season. Co-located with Jewellery & Watch and Fashion (JWF) and Glee at Spring Fair, Spring Fair is an all-encompassing show for retailers, designers, contractors, architects and interior decorators to come and find their next best-seller, gain insights into the newest product trends and connect with the retail community. Spring Fair is a brand of Hyve Group plc. http://www.springfair.com

 

Diverse, relevant and exciting, Autumn Fair is the marketplace of the season for the home and gift retail industry. Perfectly timed at the beginning of September, the event is a crucial shopping destination for buyers to prepare for the Golden Quarter, retail’s busiest and most profitable time of year in the lead up to Christmas and New Year. Autumn Fair is a brand of Hyve Group plc. http://www.autumnfair.com

 

Running twice a year alongside Spring Fair in February and Autumn Fair in September, this brand-new offering is where the most coveted contemporary jewellery and watches meet the newest, must-have fashion pieces including footwear, handbags, wallets, scarves and luggage. As a response to growing retail demands and consumer trends, JWF offers buyers a chance to diversify their offering and grow their business across two editions. JWF is a brand of Hyve Group plc. http://www.jewelleryandwatchbirmingham.com

 

Moda is the show the brings fashion to life. Hosted in Birmingham, the heart of the UK, Moda makes fashion accessible to everyone. Held bi-annually, in February and September, Moda offers a curated and comprehensive selection of womenswear, accessories and footwear, from both leading brands and exciting new names. Known as the National Footwear Show, Moda is the leading footwear trade show in the UK, offering the largest selection of women’s, men’s, and children’s footwear collections, as well as specialised podiatry brands. Not only does Moda grant you access to the latest collections, our exclusive live content brings visitors the latest market insights, trends and business advice for a successful season. https://www.moda-uk.co.uk/welcome

 

Glee at Spring Fair is a second touchpoint throughout the year for the gardening and outdoor living community to network and do business with new and existing buyers. Visitors who wouldn’t usually see garden-related products at Spring Fair can now discover the latest concepts and trends. From garden care to garden décor, Glee at Spring Fair showcases suppliers from Glee’s core show sectors including Landscaping and Garden Decoration, Garden Care, Plants and Outdoor Entertaining. Glee is a brand of Hyve Group plc. http://www.gleebirmingham.com/glee

 

Hyve Group plc is a next generation global events business whose purpose is to create unmissable events, where customers from all corners of the globe share extraordinary moments and shape industry innovation. Hyve Group plc was announced as the new brand name of ITE Group plc in September 2019, following its significant transformation under the Transformation and Growth (TAG) programme. Our vision is to create the world’s leading portfolio of content-driven, must-attend events delivering an outstanding experience and ROI for our customers. Where business is personal, where meetings move markets and where today’s leaders inspire tomorrow’s. http://hyve.group/Home

 
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Garden centre offers £200 reward after theft

Combe Garden Centre in Devon has offered a £200 reward that leads to the prosecution of three women, who stole property from the store...


 

Combe Garden Centre in Devon has offered a £200 reward that leads to the prosecution of three women, who stole property from the store.

 

The centre posted photographs of the women who walked away with a large boxed Christmas decoration on the centre's Facebook page.

 

In the social media post the centre said: “£200 reward for the name that leads to prosecution of these three low lifes!

 

 

“A woman in grey distracted the till staff while a lady in the dark clothes and silver boots just walked out with this box after leaving it next to the door moments before.

 

“It was well planned and I’m sure they will be around town now. Just looking on the cameras to get the car reg.” 

 

In a later post the centre added: “I’d like to add that I found out only two hours later they went to another nursery in the area and did the same thing...hopefully together we can catch them and stop them.

 

Police were informed of both incidents.

 
RHS confirms gardens will remain open

The Royal Horticultural Society has confirmed that RHS Gardens Wisley, Harlow Carr, Hyde Hall and Rosemoor will remain open for visitors to enjoy fresh air and exercise during the new month-long lockdown across England...


The Royal Horticultural Society has confirmed that RHS Gardens Wisley, Harlow Carr, Hyde Hall and Rosemoor will remain open for visitors to enjoy fresh air and exercise during the new month-long lockdown across England. 

 

The RHS Gardens have offered a vital safe sanctuary to the public for their mental and physical health during these times, and the charity is delighted that this has been recognised by UK Government. 

 

We are waiting on further government advice and clarification on whether we can run our Glow illuminations events in the Gardens and open for Glow in the evenings, and will provide further information on this in due course.

 

As large outside spaces, the RHS Gardens can be enjoyed safely by visitors with the safety  measures that have been in place since reopening in June, including social distancing, enhanced cleaning and limits on visitor volumes. Mandatory pre-booking remains in place, and those wishing to visit the gardens must book a time slot online at www.rhs.org.uk/gardens.

 

Enclosed areas of the gardens, including Glasshouses, Alpine Houses and Bird Hides, will close from Thursday 5 November in line with the new regulations. Play areas will remain open.

 

Garden centres at the four RHS Gardens will also remain open during this period to ensure that people can continue to garden and grow plants, indoors and outdoors. Our online plant shop, www.rhsplants.co.uk, continues to offer a wide selection of edible and ornamental plants. Please note that indoor catering venues will close, but mobile and takeaway options will be available at all gardens.

 

The RHS is immensely grateful for the continued support of its members and visitors throughout this challenging year.    

 
Real gardening activity shifts sales

The GTN Bestsellers Garden Products Top 50 volume sales index for October was down by 2% on last year. Sales value is most likely higher than any of the previous years with the shift from high volume garden lighting lines to lower volumes but higher value pot sales. More evidence that there has been a shift to real gardening activity rather than just garden decoration.


 

The GTN Bestsellers Garden Products Top 50 volume sales index for October was down by 2% on last year. 

 

Sales value is most likely higher than any of the previous years with the shift from high volume garden lighting lines to lower volumes but higher value pot sales. More evidence that there has been a shift to real gardening activity rather than just garden decoration.

 

In the last week of October this year there has been a big increase in sales of indoor gardening products, especially houseplant feeds.

  • Fito Drip Feeder For Orchids 32ml were the highest placed re-entry at No 4.
  • Oasis Blue Lantan Vase 24cm was the highest new entry at No 11.
  • Growth Technology Orchid Pot Clear 12cm almost quadrupled sales to re-enter at No 8.

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
Blue Skies in Lockdown at Vitavia

At Vitavia we have continued to operate as safely and efficiently as possible. Many of our employees have been working remotely and orders have been coming in thick and fast...


It is without doubt that this has been quite the year! The fact that we somehow now find ourselves in November 2020 seems totally bonkers! The last 10 months have disappeared in a flash, yet equally feels like a marathon of confusion and worry since the first lockdown took place back in March. 

 

We hope that you are as ok as you can be during a pandemic and that you have managed to find some comfort in having to stop and enjoy the simple things in life, albeit following strict government guidelines. 

 

For those of us lucky enough to have gardens, we have certainly found a means of escape, an oasis of calm amongst the midst of dread flowing overhead. We have seen social media explode with people gardening for the first time, families coming together as they dig a little plot in their garden, or plant pots and crops in their greenhouse to tend and watch over them daily. The knowledge of young children and their passion to grow and know what they are eating has been a remarkable result of having to slow down and stay at home. We are certainly not meaning that lockdown didn’t come without its many challenges, but this at least was one of the positive things to come out of it! 

 

At Vitavia we have continued to operate as safely and efficiently as possible. Many of our employees have been working remotely and orders have been coming in thick and fast. It has been so comforting seeing your greenhouses up and running and for you all to be rewarded with delicious homegrown crops. We must admit, we have never seen such gigantic vegetables, so the earth is certainly benefiting from us all taking a break!

 

As the UK have started another four week lockdown, I think we can all agree how important being outdoors is, whether it be your balcony, garden or a stroll to your local park. The outdoors has never felt so appealing. So please keep in touch, keep talking and we will come out of this even stronger and certainly better gardeners!

 

 
October Christmas drops by 13%

Christmas sales volumes accelerated during half term, up by 64% on the previous week, but closed the month for October down by 13%...


 

Christmas sales volumes accelerated during half term, up by 64% on the previous week, but closed the month for October down by 13%.

 

It’s great news that garden centres can stay open during Lockdown 2, but that does create potential issues with Christmas displays and sales.  We’ve seen some really wide aisles during garden centre visits during half term and everywhere has felt very safe.  Let’s hope it stays that way for the next four weeks.

  • Scentsicles Christmas Tree Assorted Fragrances climb four places up the GTN Christmas chart to No 6.
  • The Millford Collection Scented Pine Cones almost doubled sales to move up 18 places to No 28.
  • Wax Lyrical Home for Christmas Reed Diffuser was the highest new entry at No 38.

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
‘Meet’ Rolawn online at the first ever FutureScape VIRTUAL event

Rolawn is an avid supporter of others seeking new ways to keep the landscaping industry moving, and is therefore embracing the opportunity to take part in FutureScape VIRTUAL 2020...


 

Rolawn is an avid supporter of others seeking new ways to keep the landscaping industry moving, and is therefore embracing the opportunity to take part in FutureScape VIRTUAL 2020.

 

Jonathan Hill, Rolawn’s Sales and Marketing Director said: “In this Covid-19 impacted world, it is more important than ever to embrace new ways of working, stay in contact with customers and keep an eye on future trends and concepts. This is a key part of our company DNA to anticipate the needs of our customers in order to evolve our products and processes accordingly. So, for us, it’s highly encouraging to see an event like FutureScape finding new ways for the industry to share news and developments that will help landscaping professionals achieve their objectives.”   

 

The virtual event running on the 17th, 18th and 19th November has opportunities to book one-on-one time slots with suppliers – including Rolawn – plus the ability to ‘walk’ around the exhibition hall and drop in via video link to view exhibitors’ ‘virtual stands’, alongside the usual programme of seminars and debates. 

 

We hope all involved in the industry will try out the event and use its easy way to ‘meet’ members of the Rolawn team, to discover how we can work together in 2021 and beyond.  

 

Register for free tickets at futurescapevirtual.com

 
Will 'New Gardeners' be as active on Wildlife and Wild Bird Care?

Wild Bird & Wildlife Care sales grew by 4% over the month for October showing signs of re-growth after several years of declining sales...


 

Wild Bird & Wildlife Care sales grew by 4% over the month for October showing signs of re-growth after several years of declining sales.  

 

In theory ‘New Gardeners’ should be prime customers for Wildlife and Wild Bird Care products.  But will they buy the same products as traditional gardeners?

 

The top three products in the GTN chart for half-term week were:

  1.  RHS Suet Balls 60 Tub
  2.  Henry Bell Fat Balls 50 Tub
  3.  Gardman Seed Mix 2kgs

See the full GTN Bestsellers Top 50 charts, compiled from garden centre Epos data every week, with a years subscription to the printed newsletter for only £145.00 using this link.

 
Composite Prime launches reward scheme for installers and stockists

Composite Prime, a leading manufacturer of sustainable composite decking and cladding, is supporting landscaping professionals, timber and builders merchants with the launch of a new reward scheme...


Composite Prime, a leading manufacturer of sustainable composite decking and cladding, is supporting landscaping professionals, timber and builders merchants with the launch of a new reward scheme.

 

The scheme has been set up to give both consumers and professionals who purchase Composite Prime products the opportunity to enter into monthly prize draws to win a range of products. 

 

Stockist sales teams and staff members are also included in the scheme, with those who receive the most customer referrals from submissions also winning.

 

Entrants can enter with each proof of purchase or sale of Composite Prime products. Prizes include a Lay-Z Spa, waterproof Sonos Move speaker, and Karcher Pressure Washer. 

 

The reward scheme follows the launch of Composite Prime’s ‘PRO Installers Network’,  a dedicated sales force with the skills to sell and install Composite Prime decking products following graduation from the free, online training programme.

 

 

Charles Taylor, Sales Director at Composite Prime, commented: “Lockdown has seen people spend more time at home than ever before and invest in DIY and renovation projects, from gardens to home gyms. Outdoor spaces have become particularly valued and this trend is set to continue as consumers create gardens suitable for year-round use.

 

“At Composite Prime we’ve experienced a huge increase in demand for composite decking and a record year of sales. We wanted to reward the individuals and sales teams who’ve been contributing to our success, and launched our reward scheme to show our appreciation. We’re looking forward to celebrating the winners each month, and continuing with the scheme as we move into the new year.”

 

Composite Prime is the UK’s leading brand of composite decking and flooring products. The company is ethically minded and has saved the equivalent of 90 million plastic milk bottles from landfill and 280 plastic bottles per square meter of decking are recycled. 

 

Composite Prime manufactures a range of nine products, including cladding, decking and flooring, which are tested against the latest requirements to measure strength, impact resistance, weathering, extreme temperature cycles, UV resistance and water absorption.

 

For more information about the reward scheme and how to enter visit https://www.composite-prime.com/rewards/ 

 

 
Napoleon Grills to sponsor Kitchen Stage at Camp Carfest 2021

Napoleon Grills; the internationally renowned barbecue and outdoor kitchen specialist, will sponsor the Kitchen Stage at Camp CarFest North & South 2021.


 

Napoleon Grills; the internationally renowned barbecue and outdoor kitchen specialist, will sponsor the Kitchen Stage at Camp CarFest North & South 2021. 

 

CarFest, founded by Radio presenter Chris Evans in 2012, is the UK’s greatest family festival, hosting an extravagant celebration of cars, music and food, all in aid of raising money for UK children’s charities.

 

As a result of the pandemic, both festivals were postponed in 2020, making the coming year even more important. Evans, determined to not only mark the event’s 10th birthday, but to continue to raise funds for the event’s charity partners, has worked with the CarFest team to develop Camp CarFest, a Covid-compliant, socially distanced version of CarFest for 2021. In addition to Camp CarFest, 2021 will also see a brand new festival with Retro CarFest taking place at Bicester Heritage in June 2021. All three festivals will offer a safe but great experience that fans have come to know and love over the years. 

 

RETRO CarFest will be held at Bicester Heritage in Oxfordshire from 18th 20th June 2021 

 

Camp CarFest North will be held at Bolesworth Estate from 23rd – 25th July 2021 

 

Camp CarFest South will be held at Laverstoke Park Farm from 27th – 29th August 2021 

 

“Camp CarFest is the ideal alliance for Napoleon Grills in terms of profile, scale and values, joining them for 2021 is incredibly exciting. You can cook anything and everything on our range of premium grills and outdoor kitchens, so to demonstrate this to a dedicated foodie audience, with some of the best celebrity and Michelin-starred chefs in the UK, is a dream scenario for us.” Commented Martin Sobey, National Sales Manager for Napoleon Grills (UK). 

 

Napoleon is the first barbecue brand to sponsor the Kitchen Stage for the iconic annual festival.  The on-stage chef line-up for 2021 includes household names such as José Pizarro, Melissa Hemsley, James Martin and Matt Tebutt. Napoleon will also operate an on-site exhibition and retail space over both weekends. 

 

Anjna Raheja, Show Director for Camp CarFest said “After an incredibly disappointing and difficult year for all, we are delighted to bring Camp CarFest back for 2021. Our charity partners are more in need than ever, and we’ve taken every measure to make sure the shows are safe and jam-packed with great experiences for all those who missed out this year. 

 

We are thrilled to introduce Napoleon to the Camp CarFest audience as our official Kitchen Stage sponsor. Much like any home, the Kitchen (stage) has become the heart of the festival, and we’re confident that Napoleon will greatly appeal to the many keen amateur cooks and professional chefs who attend and host every year.” 

 

Camp CarFest donates 20% of ticket sales directly to its UK children’s charity partners: BBC Children in Need, Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, Rainbow Trust, Starlight Children’s Foundation and Teenage Cancer Trust each year. In order to ensure social distancing, capacity has been restricted and the amount of space has been increased. Multiple screens and viewing pods will also be erected across the sites to ensure a safe distance between attendees. 

 

Tickets for Camp CarFest will go on sale from 8am on Thursday 5th November 2020. 

 

 

For press ticket enquiries and further details please contact napoleon@mason-williams.com

 
The best of last week's

If you missed last week's GTN Xtra, below are the most-read stories...


Garden centres in England and Scotland can stay open - now is the time to review Covid-19 safety

Following news that garden centres in England and Scotland can remain open, HTA President Boyd Douglas-Davies, has called upon garden centres to work to the highest standards of Covid-19 safe policies and to review everything now before the month long lockdown in England begins or areas in Scotland move into Tier 4...


Following news that garden centres in England and Scotland can remain open, HTA President Boyd Douglas-Davies has called upon garden centres to work to the highest standards of Covid-19 safe policies and to review everything now before the month long lockdown in England begins or areas in Scotland move into Tier 4.

 

Boyd told GTN Xtra this morning: "I'm delighted that Westminster has recognised the beneficial part garden centres played in the initial lockdown. The provision of gardening and other products has allowed many millions of people to spend a more fruitful time at home than they would have done without us. This has played a significant part in our continued recognition as an essential sector.

 

"Throughout this difficult year the horticulture industry has behaved with great integrity and provided a safe environment for staff and customers alike. It is now, more than ever, really important that we continue to work to the highest standards and ensure that our covid safe policies are adhered to. Garden Centres should review everything now and prepare to be very busy over the next month.

 

The team at the HTA have been brilliant and I thank them all for working so hard on all our behalf. "

Last night James Clark, Director of Policy and Communications at the HTA said: “The announcement to keep garden centres open in England during lockdown is a huge relief and very welcome for members – not only garden centres, but for those in the supply chain. We have been making the case to the Government in England in the last few months and of course today on why garden centres should be classified as ‘essential’ retail in lockdown. Credit to those in Government for this massively significant decision.

 

"Garden centres offer an airy and open retail environment, providing one of the safest retail environments. It’s important for garden centres to continue to reassert the exemplar social distancing and safe trading measures they have put in place.

 

"Garden centres staying open will benefit everyone across the country bringing much needed mental and physical benefits as people have to stay at home. It brings some joy at Christmas in these very difficult times for our country. Our sector is an economic driver for the UK - this decision allows us to help the country out of any economic downturn.

 

"This announcement, alongside the decision in Scotland on Friday, will support our efforts in Wales to make sure garden centres are listed as ‘essential’ for any future lockdown decisions there."

 

Garden centres to be classed as ‘essential’ in Scottish Tier 4

The Scottish Government has confirmed that Scottish garden centres have been listed as ‘essential retail’ in the Health Protection (Coronavirus)(Restrictions and Requirements)(Local Levels)(Scotland) Regulations 20202 in the event of Tier 4 restrictions being introduced and therefore able to continue trading, with strict social distancing measures in place.

 

James Clark said: “This decision is hugely significant for the Scottish horticulture industry. It is the culmination of work by the HTA to highlight the importance of horticulture, bringing much needed confidence to the Scottish industry and gardeners across Scotland. It protects the industry and supports wellbeing during any future lockdowns. 

 

"We support the Government’s efforts to control and eliminate COVID. We have always said that the large airy and open infrastructure of garden centres, alongside implementing first class and tailored safe trading measures, provide one of the safest retail environments. Our members will continue to enact these robust and exemplar social distancing actions."

 
Kaemingk to open UK showroom

Great news for UK Christmas buyers, Kaemingk are opening a showroom in Solihull from 9th of January 2021...


Great news for UK Christmas buyers, Kaemingk are opening a showroom in Solihull from 9th of January 2021.

 

While restrictions on travel are in place and trade shows on hold, Kaemingk have made the decision to invest in Christmas showrooms in the UK and Germany to facilitate the best buying experience possible for Christmas 2021 from Kaemingk.

 

The UK showroom will be in the Platinum suite of the AIS Building in Solihull, taking up 2,000 square metres, which is three times the size of Kaemingk’s usual stand space at Spring Fair.

 

Kaemingk told GTN Xtra: “We want to go the extra mile to meet buyers needs when it comes to buying Christmas 2021.  With Christmas being so important to our customers we feel we need to offer them the best environment to plan their displays and ranges by bringing the Kaemingk experience to the UK.

 

“At Solihull we will use a similar set up to our showroom in Aalten. You will find a large offering in Lumineo lighting, Everlands trees wreaths & garlands, silk floristry, shatterproof & glass baubles and   figurines along with all our theme settings for 2021.

 

“Our project team is planning the build right now ensuring we can open on the 9th of January. They will also be making sure we create a safe working environment for our customers by implementing the Covid regulations.

 

“At Kaemingk we will launch our Christmas 2021 range on the 2nd of December. So, for those who can’t wait we are happy to take you around via a virtual showroom tour.”

 

With numbers having to be manged very carefully due to Covid guidelines, Kaemingk advises buyers to book their visit to the Solihull showroom as soon as possible. Their sales representatives will be in touch with their customers shortly.

 

 

Kaemingk is also very thankful for the support and professionalism of the AIS team! They have been a big help and they continue to assist where they can whilst set-up is about to start.

 

Covid-19 may have brought many challenges for all of us. What Kaemingk has learned throughout this process is that: “When it’s going to get tough, the Dutch get going”. They can’t wait to start working with their customers on an amazing Christmas 2021.

 

For now, Kaemingk hopes that Christmas remains in full swing for UK retailers.

 

Team Kaemingk UK & Ireland  https://www.kaemingk.com/en/

 

 
British Garden Centres open their 58th centre at Thatcham

Charles Stubbs, Lewis Fox and Nemanja Tintor, along with the rest of the BGC team, were proud as punch yesterday as their 58th centre at Thatcham in Berkshire opened...


See GTN Xtra's exclusive photo tour of the new centre

Charles Stubbs, Lewis Fox and Nemanja Tintor, along with the rest of the BGC team, were proud as punch yesterday as their 58th centre at Thatcham in Berkshire opened.

 

The centre had been handed back to the landlords during the Wyevale Garden Centres sale of the century in and closed in September 2019 as the owners looked for a new leaseholder.  British Garden Centres took on the site in September 2020 and since then have refreshed the centre, enclosing a walkway at the Restaurant end to allow for extra covers, extending the covered sales area out into the planteria and hard surfacing the overflow car parking area which was previously a field.

 

See GTN Xtra's exclusive photo tour of the new centre below:

 

 

 
Westland rolls out innovative new hosepipe technology

Westland is launching Smartflo into the market, the first hose that ‘unkinks’ itself, reduces the risk of leaks and is built to last...


Westland is launching Smartflo into the market, the first hose that ‘unkinks’ itself, reduces the risk of leaks and is built to last.

 

A new product addition to the Flopro range for 2021, the Smartflo hose provides a solution to the two main challenges consumers face with traditional hoses – kinks and leaks.  

 

Made from thermo elastomer technology, the Smartflo hose is flat when not in use but expands as water flows through it. This expandable material allows the hose to effectively remove kinks by itself as water passes through. It also minimises the amount of water left within the hose as it decompresses after use, removing the risk of leaks and internal damage. 

 

Marloes Rots, Flopro Brand Manager, said, “Consumers are often frustrated by garden hoses that develop kinks, leaks or break easily. Available in 20m, 30m and 40m, the Smartflo hose breaks new ground in hosepipe technology given its ability to expand and deflate - and is so durable that we offer a 30-year guarantee with the product. 

 

“We focus on providing the most effective solutions to problems and enhancing the consumer experience of gardening at every level. Flopro is making a difference in the watering category for 2021 by showing consumers the right way to water for better garden results.

“Alongside the new Smartflo hose, Westland has enhanced a number of lines within the Flopro range across hosepipes, spray guns, connectors and sprinklers. 

 

“We guarantee that our Flopro products work with all watering brands and are anti-leak – making upgrading to Flopro a simple and valuable decision for consumers. With impactful point of sale fixtures and graphics developed to support the range, Flopro is set to create a true splash of impact in-store in 2021,” Marloes Rots added. 

 
Retail Equipment Limited acquire Greenkey Garden & Home

Greenkey Garden & Home has been sold for an undisclosed sum to Retail Equipment Limited of Sudbury, Suffolk. Greenkey directors Jeremy and Emma Parkes will retire in six months time, allowing the opportunity for new management to further develop the business...


Greenkey Garden & Home has been sold for an undisclosed sum to Retail Equipment Limited of Sudbury, Suffolk.

 

Jeremy Parkes, Greenkey’s Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to find such a good fit for the business with like minded people, and understand that the business will continue for the foreseeable future at its existing premises with its current staff."

 

The Directors Jeremy and Emma Parkes will retire in six months time, allowing the opportunity for new management to further develop the business.

 

Retail Equipment’s Director Steve Newmark commented: “We’re pleased to acquire a vibrant business in an industry that affords much potential for growth.

 

"Greenkey is well placed to supply new innovative ideas to the garden products market and the two businesses have many operational synergies."

 
 
Haskins Snowhill re-opens after £15m re-vamp

Haskins Garden Centre in Snowhill, Crawley, has opened its doors to customers following a 12-month refurbishment costing £15m...


Read more and see GTN Xtras photo tour of the new centre

Haskins Garden Centre in Snowhill, Crawley, has opened its doors to customers following a 12-month refurbishment costing £15m.

 

The new centre boasts a retail space of 11,813 sq.m., including an outdoor plant area and 440-seat restaurant complete with a newly installed pizza oven. Additional space has also been created to accommodate 170 restaurant guests on an outdoor patio.

 

Up to 70 new jobs have been created to accommodate the centre's expansion. Car parking has increased to 346 spaces.  See GTN Xtra's photo tour of the new centre below.

 

Chief executive Julian Winfield said the Snowhill team worked tirelessly to ensure the centre was able to remain open for the majority of the project, with minimal disruption.

 

“We can't wait to receive our customers' feedback on our new and improved facilities,” he added. “Over the years, we have built a loyal customer following and we are proud to be able to give back to them in this way with our new expanded centre.”

 

Haskins acquired the Snowhill site in 2003, inheriting a number of ageing buildings.

 

Haskins also has centres in Ferndown in Dorset, West End in Southampton and Roundstone in West Sussex. The family business recently acquired Forest Lodge Garden Centre, Bird World and Garden Style in Farnham.

 

Pictured (left to right): Julian Winfield, Jamie Haskins, Ally Haskins (married to Jamie) and Warren Haskins, the group's chairman. 

 

The opening event was attended by the current GCA Chairman Mike Burks and three past Chairs; Warren Haskins, Sue Allen and Julian Winfield.

 

 

 
Bestsellers Top 50 charts every week

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 this week are here

Highlights of the GTN Garden Plants Bestsellers chart for this week are here

 

Highlights of the GTN Wildbird and Wildlife Care Bestsellers chart for last week are here

 

Highlights of the GTN Christmas Products 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.

For further information contact karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk or call 07973504214.

Buy your subscription today and start receiving the GTN Bestsellers charts this week.

All the latest news from the world of pet products


Bringing the outside in for naturally happy pets with Penny & Pepe
GTN Xtra Promotion

Penny & Pepe have launched a full range of ready grown, fresh living products to bring the outside in for naturally happy pets...


 

Cold winters, hot summers and an increase in indoor living has resulted in more indoor pets in the UK than ever before. Cats, particularly indoor cats, need stimulation through play and an enriched environment to support natural behaviour. Rabbits and guinea pigs need a daily serving of fresh leafy greens. 

 

Penny & Pepe have launched a full range of ready grown, fresh living products to bring the outside in for naturally happy pets.

 

The range includes: 

Pet grass:

Made from a mixture of wheat, oats and barley, Penny & Pepe ready grown pet grass is suitable for a range of animals from cats, dogs and small animals to reptiles and birds. 

 

Perfect for Cats: natural stimulation, helps remove hairballs

Small Animals – Rabbits and Guinea Pigs: source of fibre, forage and requirement as part of healthy diet 

 

Living cat nip: 

Cat nips produce the chemical nepetalactone which acts as a natural mood enhancer that some cats go crazy for. Fresh growing plants have a stronger aroma than dried catnip.   

 

Fresh living greens: Dandelion & Chicory Mix and Chicory & Chard Mix:  

A fresh natural food source to supplement diets and treat your pets.

Our fresh greens selection contains a mix of dandelion, chard and chicory. Cut and come again or let your animals nibble the tasty leaves in moderate quantities. Fresh greens are a great natural source of fibre, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Calcium.

 

 

All products are grown in the UK and the pack sleeve is recyclable with carrier bags.

 

The Penny & Pepe living product range is available to order for drop shipping direct to store for trade customers. New customers can register here to create an account: https://www.pennyandpepe.co.uk/trade/

Products are available in cases of 4 delivered direct to store:

  • 4x pet grass
  • 4 x cat nip
  • 4 x fresh living greens Dandelion & Chicory
  • 4 x fresh living greens Chicory & Chard
  • Cat Mixed case: x2 pet grass, x2 cat nip
  • Small animal mixed case: x2 Dandelion & Chicory, x2 Chicory & Chard

Product RRP £4.99

 

A branded shelf ready unit is available on request from customers who have placed an order.

Meat-first ingredients in new Wagg range

Wagg – the biggest dry dog food brand by volume – has undergone the most comprehensive refresh since it launched in 1986. The recipe for the new and improved range – which is now in store - has been significantly enhanced with meat ingredients now forming the largest content at 28%. Wagg now claims to have 80% more meat ingredients than its leading branded competitor.


Wagg – the biggest dry dog food brand by volume – has undergone the most comprehensive refresh since it launched in 1986.

 

The recipe for the new and improved range – which is now in store - has been significantly enhanced with meat ingredients now forming the largest content at 28%. Wagg now claims to have 80% more meat ingredients than its leading branded competitor.

 

Lucy Stones, brand marketing manager, said: “These nutritional improvements put clear water between Wagg and its competitors and the brand is meatier and mightier than ever.  In addition, dog owners are getting these benefits at no extra cost as the price remains the same.    

 

“During trials 7 out of 10 dogs clearly preferred the new recipe and backed by this strong endorsement, I am confident the new-look Wagg will prove a big hit with consumers.”

 

In addition to the recipe changes, the Wagg logo and pack colours have also been re-styled to achieve more prominence on the shelf.  The kibbles are highlighted on the pack front which also features more transparent flavour and ingredients information.

 

The new format Wagg is available in both major multiples and pet stores.  It is obtainable in all the same formats and sizes as previously including Wagg Worker, Wagg Senior, Wagg Complete, Wagg Moist Meaty Chunks, Wagg Treats and Wagg Puppy.