The team from the Garden Centre Association have a stand at Glee this month where existing members and those interested in finding out more about the organisation can drop by.

The GCA will be at the event at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham in Hall 8, Stand 8C70-D71 from June 27 until 29.

Peter Burks, Chief Executive at the GCA, says: “Glee is the largest horticultural industry exhibition and most of our members will be attending, so it’s a great opportunity to invite them over to our stand to have a good catch up face-to-face. It’s one of the most important trading events in the gardening industry calendar.

“Not only is it the perfect show for garden centre staff to find out the latest horticultural news, see the newest products on offer, meet suppliers old and new and source exciting new supply partners, but it is also a chance to catch up with other GCA members and to network.

“I will be attending and I look forward to catching up with as many members as possible during the course of the event. We’ve a lounge area with tables and chairs that’s perfect for anyone keen to come and have a sit down and to chat with us.”

More than 400 brands will be at Glee this year including new suppliers and some never before seen at the show.

Thousands of new products launch exclusively there every year, from new compost compositions to decorative aggregates, the latest plant varieties, decking, fencing, garden décor, pots, sculptures and statues.

Peter continues: “We’re also looking forward to seeing the Glee Talent Store finalists’ pop-up store designs, which will be at the show too. This was a joint initiative we hosted with the Glee Talent Store team. Congratulations to everyone from all the garden centres who took part and to those who have been selected to have their designs displayed at Glee. It’s a fantastic achievement.”

Glee is also the place to see the latest trends and has a dedicated New Product Showcase area that features innovation and new product development.

Peter adds: “Education has always been a key aspect of Glee’s overall offering with ‘The Stage’ the place to learn more about the key trends and topics that are shaping the future of gardening. There’s a three-day agenda with topics including issues surrounding sustainability and ethical consumers and how we can futureproof our industry, which are all things we’re discussing too.

“We’re also looking forward to chatting to anyone who would like to find out more about our association and we’ll be able to provide information for garden centres and suppliers interested in joining us.”

The GCA represents garden centres nationwide.

Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

For further information, please visit www.gca.org.uk.