The winners of the Garden Centre Association’s Rising Stars programme, sponsored by Westland, are due to address delegates at the association’s annual conference later this month (26-29 January, Blackpool).George Bishop, Assistant Manager for Squires Woking and Will Michieli, Plant Advisor for Monkton Elm Garden and Pet Centre at Taunton, will describe their journey to success on Tuesday 28 January.
Keith Nicholson, Westland marketing director explained how the 2013 programme had attracted 12 applicants, with four shortlisted for the full programme, all go-getting ambitious individuals “Two were promoted within their businesses during the year. As the whole process was so successful, in 2014 we’re hoping for a greater number of applicants,” said Nicholson.
The 2013 programme included three seasonal workshops (facilitated by Ian Boardman and sponsored by Westland), aimed at increasing awareness of key merchandising skills. Participants were then challenged to try these ideas back at their centres and deliver measurable results, for example, increased sales. Results were reviewed before planning for the next season.
George Bishop said: “We have become much more proactive. Planning ahead more, being ready to change displays and product placing if the weather changes.
“I can now think like a customer more – and aim to make it easier for customers to shop and spend.”
Will Michieli (pictured left) said: “We worked on the average spend and now understand net profit and the effect we can have on it.
“I now realise how vital the personal touch is and how it affects what people spend on the day. I am now looking ahead to the coming year with new ideas for improved POS signs.”
All entrants were invited to attend the GCA Conference later this month, courtesy of Westland Horticulture, as part of the prize.
A new Rising Stars Programme will be developed for 2014.
Nicholson added: “This will allow more delegates to benefit from the workshops and the conference. They all have the potential of a great future in garden retail as the industry’s next generation of managers.”
Iain Wylie, Chief Executive of the GCA, said: “We are aiming to involve a larger group to participate in the workshops throughout 2014. Ultimately we hope there will be four or five attending the conference, selected from the group, next time, which will be part of the prize itself.”
Anyone interested in applying for the 2014 programme should contact the GCA on 0118 930 8918 or visit www.gca.org.uk
