Leadersof influence
Hard work and determination
This issue goes to pressasthe Glee RoadshowatGates Garden Centre Oakhamtakes placeand it was great to see so many garden centresin attendancecovering awiderange of centre sizes, both independents and groups. Feedback from all the retailers is that it has been agood April, not thebest ever,but some havematched last year,with plants selling especially well.All we arewaitingfor nowisa spell of warmer weather so that gardeners acrossthe countrycan spend daysand evenings in thegarden which will drivemorefurniture and BBQ sales Hard work,determination and staying in contact onthe shop floorwerekey messages from both Nigel Gates and Martin Turner of Fakenham Garden Centre. The differenceinscale of both Gates and Fakenham is enormous, Gates Oakham turns over £16m, covers 20acres and has 700 car parking spaces. Whereas at Fakenham theyonly havea1.75-acresite, 65 carparking spaces but still achieve a£4.5m turnover. The similaritiesinhow
theyoperateand their family ethos arefantastic illustrations of whyindependent garden centres both large and small aresogreat acrossthe country.
During May the team of intrepid Greenfingers Charity supporters that will be climbing Mount Kilimanjarothissummerwill be completingtheir finaltraining and preparations.Theystart their climbonFriday June 12th and Greenfingersare askingasmany supporters in the industryas possibletojoin aspecial Floral Friday wearing as much floralapparel as possible.
We canalso help them get even closer to their £150,000 fund raising target by sponsoring using this link:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ greenfingers-kilimanjaro2026
For sure we will be joining in and wishing them all well in theirquesttoreach the ‘RoofofAfrica’ and raise fundstobuild another newgarden at a children’shospice
Trevor Pfeiffer
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Behind every plantisa business
Fran Barnes, HTACEO talks to GTNabout how theassociation isworking to ensurehorticultural and garden centrebusinesses thrive.
The remit of the Horticultural Trades Association is vast Covering allsectors of horticulture it spreads itself acrossall business aspects within growing,landscaping and retailing.Plants arethe commonthread and theirvalued and vital placewithinthe environment, healthand wellbeing and the UK economy,fuels its work. But first and foremost, it is amembership organisation, withtheir needs andrequirementsa priority
“If youare not member focused, then youhavenoright to be atrade association,”states Fran Barnes, HTA CEO, who took up the post in 2023.“And that means being trusted,inclusive and collaborative.Ibelieve we'reliving and breathing those values.”
One of Fran’sfirst projectswas creating aclear three-year strategy,Grow2026, which she believeshas, so far, beaten everytarget. It wasn't just aboutnumbers, although financial resiliencewas important, it wasaboutgrowing its membership, its voiceinWestminster,SeneddCymru and TheScottish Governmentand making sure the people and infrastructurewereinpost to deliver.“When Iarrived at the HTA, each
personwas focused on theirown different area,for example, ourmembership team waseithergrowing or retailfocused. We've changed thatbecausesomebusinesses do both andit’simportantweget the whole supplychain represented,”she says, and adds thatgeographical restructuring of themember-facing team hasproved successful
“Today,the wholeteam is laser focused, making surewe're a21stcentury, fit forpurpose tradeassociation,which is delivering forour members.”
Forretailers
When anyorganisation hassomuch area to cover, it can, perhaps, be hard to appreciate benefits to specificsectors.For retailers oneofthe most obvious is theHTA’s National GardenGift Card scheme, whichlocks £40m into horticultural retailingand drives two millioninstorevisits. Fran believesthisis somethingthe industry shouldbeproud of andaddsthatexpanding giftcardsales into supermarketsisnow openinghorticulture to newdemographics.
“If somebody'sgoing to buy agiftcard, they will buy agiftcard. It’s competitive
out thereand we want them to spenditin horticultureand not, forexample, Currys. It drivesfootfall andadded value.Our model demonstratesthatifyou'reanet seller then you're making money, but members whoare net redeemers benefit from the addedtransactionvalue andadditional spendfor bigger baskets.”
Funding generated from the sale of gift cards is significant,accounting for60% (in 2023) of the HTA’stotal incomeof£5.669m (2022-2024). “Withoutthiswewouldn’t havethe resourcestodoour lobbying including ourrecent work to getplant healthincludedinanSPS agreement. This waspurely down to HTAlobbying andwill savethe industrymillionsintime andstress. We’vebeen told in some cases, it willsave somebusinessesfullstop,”saysFran.
Thebigger picture
Collective representation to promote environmentalhorticulture, is another
way members appreciate thework of the HTA. Onelone voicetryingtoappeal to governments is unlikely to be heard, but HTAengagement and connections ensure horticultureisconsidered within national decisions.
Environmental horticulture andthe vital need forgreen spacewithin theUK’s planned NewTowns has beenrecognised by the government, andthe HTAis working to lobbyfor thecreationofan Office for Green Spaces. It also continues to challenge issues such as NationalInsurance, InheritanceTax, andNationalLiving Wage changes
An example of this engagement is the recent Plants in Parliamentevent in London, with HTAmembers inviting their local MPsand apresentation from Mary Creagh (ParliamentaryUnder-Secretary for Defraand Labour MP forCoventryEast)
The room, which had to be larger thanlast year due to thepopularityofthe event, was filledwith plants andmorethan 140 MP's, Peers andtheir teamsturnedup. Each went away withseedsora plantfor their
or garden. “We had a queue around the corridor of people wanting to
a plant. For me that clearly shows sector, so it’s not a fight. The is
“But it’snot justDefra, it's also departments fortrade, energy, employment, health andthe environment. Thedrive to netzerocan’tbeachieved without oursector. It doesn’t deliver instantresults, but we havereallystepped up ourlobbying. We'venow gotasmall London office,essentialifwe're going to be face-to-facewith andinfluencecivil servants,officials andministers,”addsFran. Regular changeswithin parliaments andthe long-term natureofhorticulture means lobbying is constant.“Civilservants don't tend to change in thesame wayas politicians, which is whyit's important we speaktopeople at everylevel in every party. Our role is to pre-empt changes and makesureweget as much coverage and as much buy-in as we can,”Franexplains.
“Inaworldwhich is slightlyunstable, we'vegot to invest in whatmakes this countrygoodfor thefuture. Our challenge, andthisrefers backtochangingministers, is it's hard to get peopleinterested in the long game because they arelikely nottobe thereinten-year’s time.”
Butmembers can do theirpartand the HTAoffers support to helpthemkeep in contact with theirlocal MPs.
Bringing peopletogether
Historically, industrymembers made up HTACouncil, but this has nowbeen disbanded withefforts directed to bringing members together at regional office or garden.“We hadaqueue around thecorridorofpeople wantingto come in,engage withus, andget aplant. Formethatclearly shows people love this sector,soit’snot hard fight.The challenge is people takeitfor granted. They don't acknowledge gardens andgreen spacesneed managingand that behind everyplant is abusiness.”
Fran hasalsorecentlyhad ameeting withAngelaEagle, Minister of Statefor Defra. “She understood about foodparsnips andcarrots-but hadn't hadthe opportunityto seeorhear about theimportance of environmentalhorticulturetrees,plants, gardens,and the businessesbehind ourgreen spaces.Without us being therewewould get overlooked, so we must ensureeveryoneunderstands andtakes into accountthe impact of oursector.
see or hear the importance
More than 140 MPs attended the recent Plants in Parliament event, with guest speaker MaryCreagh
MP.L-R: Fran Barnes, MaryCreagh, Gerald Ingram from Planters Garden
Centres and Ben Goldsborough MP.
events.Last year 40 such events were held alongside120 APLcluster meetings for our landscapermembers,offering opportunities fornetworking,finding new suppliers and buyers
“Regional events areaneffectiveway of speaking to awider group of members. Many former Council memberswere involved toosoit’sabetteruse of their time, rather than dragging them intoone placefor ameeting.Wehavemuchmore interaction with our members at grassroots levelthan perhaps we had beforeand I think, Council also came to theviewthat this is abetterway.Therewas broad supportwithin Council,soitwasn'ta controversial decision.”
The HTAalsoruns BusinessImprovement Schemes (BIS), and the retail meetings areparticularlystrong.“Forsome, it has transformed theirbusiness. They would not be in the position theyare nowwithout thatscheme, and they'restillinitbecause
theywanttohelp other people come on board,”explainsFran. “I don’tknow many other industries whereyou could get people together whowould be so generouswith their knowledge and genuine support.Tohaveagroup of your peers assessyourgarden centreand offer help andreal solutions forany issueisso powerful.”
Considering 90%ofHTA members areSME’s,beingabletocometogether with people from like-minded businesses is hugely valuable especiallywhen facing recent andfuturechallenges. “Many are dealingwithBusinessProperty Relief,as well as Agricultural Property Relief,rises in the nationallivingwage andnational insurance,rateable values andchanging tradepatterns…andthenyou chuck in the weather!Retail is apressured industry andalthoughgardencentresales were up 9% last year,theyneed to be up by 10-15% this year justtostay even.”
Opportunities
With plans forfive to sevennew towns in theUK, thereisaneed forhorticultureto be includedatthe very start. MiltonKeynes hasbeen asuccess because of its green spaceand hasprovedthat it doesn’t have to be all about privategardens. “There hastobeaccesstogreen spaceand our industrycan step up,but without certainty of tradedeals,whatthe marketisgoing to look like andwho might be theend users, it’s very hard to planfor.”
Fran can also seehow atraining academy or similar wouldwork forhorticulture. “I am very awareofthe constant need from ourmembers to have peoplewho are trainedinhorticulture, because that's areal skillsgap.But it’s notthatsimple.”
Sheexplains althoughthereisageneral want forapprentices,itneeds to be mirrored by access to training providers, andthispartisgenerallymissing.“There should be away forthe industrytocome together andeithercreatesomekind of apprenticeship or training provision that brings people through. Relying on theeducationsectortotrain people is a vulnerablething to do.”
Fran recalls her days at theNFU when sheset up theStudent andYoung Farmer AmbassadorScheme, andNFU Education, which introduced farming to school children. “Wedidn’trely on theNational Curriculum.But we can helpourselves. I recentlysaw aposterinagarden centre saying,‘Staff Required’. We should be saying: ‘Doyou want to work in afriendly industryand be partofone that delivers on health,wellbeing andthe environment forour country? Anddoyou want the choice of working outsideand to meet some fantastic people?’Ifweare notselling ourselves in thefirst place,how canwe expect careers advisors to point peoplein ourdirection? We need to recogniseour unique sellingpoint,whatwecan offer people, andhow we can keep thegood ones anddevelop theirskills. TheHTA has a role to playindeveloping people already in ourindustry, becausewedon't want them to leave.
“It’snot horticulture, its horti-culture. I’ve notmet asingle personwho is not botheredabout theirjob or has a‘takeit or leaveit’ attitude. In this industry, people don't only careabout theirjob,but they alsobelieve in it andtheyloveit. Youcould sayit’salove forplants,gardeningand green spaces andifwecould bottle that andtakeittoevery career’sadvisor,then that’s what we woulddo.”
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Preparing to leavea privileged position
As VickyNuttall prepares to leave GIMA,she talks to GTNabout thehighlightsofher time as Director, changes in the industry and the ripples caused by the increasing instances of global chaos
For the last 12 years, VickyNuttallhas been thefriendly face of the Garden IndustryManufacturers Association (GIMA), encouraging,supporting and workingtohelp suppliers to the industry succeed. “Coveringupto15product categories we represent choiceand a gateway to opportunities,”says Vicky.
Before herdays at GIMA,Vicky recalls her first‘proper job’ with MarleyBuilding Materials. Product developmentfor roofing products,particularly clayroofingtiles, was herniche speciality and the six years spent here were notonly informativebut also generated life-long friendships.
When the post formarketingand product developmentatForestGarden came up,Vicky took achance.“It wasa leapoffaith,but I’mquitegoodatdoing that,”she says
Duringher 13 years at Forest, the business sawchanges in ownership, restructuring andemerging sales channels so hertime therewas extremely busyand rewarding.Italsoenabled her to become familiar with gardeningand horticulture, and from thesebecome involved with GIMA as amember of theCouncil
One of herfondmemories at Forest was the launchofLifeSpace.A contemporary gardenbuildingwhichwentontowin severalawardsbut didn’t achieve the commercial successitdeserved. “Itwas a fantastic product and beautifully designed
and Iremember it being part of aHillier exhibit in theGreat Pavilionatthe RHS Chelsea FlowerShow. Butitwas almost toocontemporaryand perhaps abit ahead of its time,”recallsVicky
Heading up GIMA
It wasin2014that Vickybecame GIMA’s Director,taking on the role from Neil Gow. “GIMAwas agood, solid association with some keymilestonesand eventsin the diary.Therewereprobablymoretrue independent garden centresthen, with some brands whohavesincedisappeared, but newones have evolved, andthere were notsomany buying groups. Isee more professionalism in the industrytoday when it comes to buying andnegotiating,and of course, thereare obviouslyadvancements in technology.Compared to now, it’slike everything changes but nothing changes,” says Vicky.
“With the younger generation,has come different methodsofcommunicating,and morerecently we areseeingagreater emergenceofonline marketplaces. These arecurrently having lessofanimpact on garden centres, butinterms of retail distribution, it is affectingthe bighigh street and DIYbrands, manyofwhich are or have disappeared. Garden centrescan’t ignorethe digitalworldespeciallyasmany consumersnow optfor theconvenience of buying online,but gardencentres obviously
o
ffer agreat visitor experience. The sights, smells and choiceare hardtobeat.
“When Ithink about membership and howit’schanged,GIMAperhaps has fewerowner operated businesses and morebigger companies with acorporate structureorpartofaglobal or European business. When Ifirststartedonly afew Council members represented these bigger organisations.That’s not the case now,” says Vicky.
GIMA nowhas morethan220 members supplying everything agardencentre needs, with the exception of plants. “We stop at plants as theyneed adifferent level of moretechnicalsupport,and the HTA does that really well. It has the horticultural know-how and it’simportant to recognise that and stick to your areas of expertise and spheres of influence.”
At its heart, GIMA is allabout gardening and this is whereit’sknowledge, expertise and contacts sit best, and it welcomes anyone from the sector.“That’snot to say this might change.Weare always looking at ways to grow the membership beyond gardening”says Vicky. “With the recent addition of Gardenex, we arenow looking at howour international profile might grow.But thereisstill the opportunity to continue to build and grow our existing core membershipbaseatthe same time” Vickybelieves.
Forsome newcompanies entering the sector Vickycan see it’snot easy.“With the
growth of buying groupsand some of the big suppliers coveringmultiple categories, havereally strong businessmodels making it hardfor smaller suppliers to break in But, at the end of theday,consumerswant choice,and we don’twanttomakeevery singlecentrelookexactly the same, so thereisroomfor everyone.”
Member benefits
In the lastyear, GIMA hasdelivered andfacilitatedmorethan400 buying appointments and events,whichVicky sayEsb , isinvaluable.Beinga member also offers D discounts to exhibit at trade events, but Vickyhas worked hard to makesurethis isn’tthe topline benefit. “What members getfromGIMAiscontacts,knowledge, expertiseand breadth of experience.We deliver this through ourfive pillars which are connecting,promoting, representing, supporting and saving whether that’sat events or exchange rate benefits.We connectmembers acrossthe sector or with retailers either formallyorinformally; promotemembers within the wider industry forexample through the GIMA Buyer’s Guide or pressevent; represent suppliers by being avoice forthe sector; supportthrough insights, training and advice, socialmedia articles, PR and behind thescenesinfluence; andfinancialsavings Whether with newemerging Marketplace retailers,whichisall aboutdistribution andmaximisingyourlistings, to traditional
bricks and mortar retailers, we work to help membersunderstand what different retailers want.”
Proud achievements
Theannual Garden PressEvent,which celebrated its 20th event this year,isnow co owned and runbyGIMA and theHTA, and this is something Vickyisreallyproud to havebeen apartof.
StartedbyRichardJackson andGuy Burtenshaw,with encouragement from PeterSeabrook,its remit wastoprovide a place andday wheregardening businesses couldbedirectly in touch with the media.“Iremember someone sayingthat GIMA should runitbecausemost of our members were exhibiting,” says Vicky. “And that always stuck in theback of my mind.”
When neworganisers forthe event were beingsought, Vickyexpressed an interest and, along with theHTA,the show became jointly owned in 2016.“As an industry event, it made sense for us to work together and I’mreally proud of howithas worked out,”says Vicky. “It’s important to haveitinour armoury, and it works to promote gardening and our members brands to media and wider influencers.Our members benefitfromadiscount at the event andany profitgenerated is ploughed back intoGIMA(and theHTA)tocontinue to build membershipservices.”
Vicky has also nurturedcommunication
At Polhill Garden Centre inKent, Vickywith Kate Ebbens (GIMA council member) andJenny DouthwaitefromPrimeur former GIMA President.
Vickywith Kate Smith, Association Administration Manager and Tony Kersey, Membership Ambassador
and relationships between other trade associations including LOFA and the GCA and wasthe first Director of GIMA to alsobeonthe boardofthe HTA. “It’sall about workingacrossthe industry.Before Istartedtherewasn't that cross-industry collaboration we havetoday,” explains Vicky.
In hindsight, another crucial movewas when GIMAjoinedthe CBI about ayear beforethe Covid pandemic. “During the pandemic, CBI washosting daily webinars, and it waslikea hotline to government. We were thereright at the startfeeding in the challenges of our members,and we were getting information back, not onlyfrom government but from other businesses and organisations. We were abletopasson crucialinformation in real time and actively asking members about their pinch points so we could ask the CBI and government. GIMA wasalsoproviding crucial supply
chainupdatesacrossthe sectoraswell as beingthere in support of thelobbying activity,headed by the HTA, to reopen garden centres.
“Thatchannel of communication across theindustryisstill open today, andalthough we arebacktobeing avery commercialand competitivesector, I believethatbuyers and retailers aremuch more attuned to the pressuresand the dynamics of the supplychain.”
Then thereisthe evolutionofthe GIMA Awards, nowamuch-anticipated eventin the diary and held yearly in Wales. “It’sso efficientnow especiallyconsideringweare a relatively small team,”says Vicky.
Whiteflag events
Oneofthe biggestchallenges forthe sector aretermed as ‘whiteflag events’–globalor other events that impact on theindustry which areout of anyone’scontrol
Obviously, the covid pandemic wasone suchevent,but recent wars in Ukraine and MiddleEastaffectinghaulage and fuelscosts areanexample butthere’salso the groundingofthe ship Evergiven in March2021whichblocked the Suez Canal. “We’ve always got the unpredictability of theweather to cope with as asectorand establishinghow we cansupport members duringthesewhite flagevents is always an interestingchallenge, but we do what we canwherepossible.
“When Ilooktothe futureItruly believe that gardeningisinareally goodplace.It gives people asense of calm andcontrol, especiallywith everything going on in the
world. Alot of people enjoyretreating to theirhomes and gardens, and that’s unlikely to change anytime soon. That said, noteveryonewill choose gardening,some people may prefer other activities that feel abit lessdemanding but stilloffer asimilar sense of relaxation andescape.”
Vickyispassingthe mantel of Director overtoMartin Ward,who manyknowfrom hisdays at Solus,Hozelock,Westlandand David Austin Roses,and although sheis stillinpost, shecan already see that,most of all, shewill missthe people.“I’ve been incrediblyluckyand privileged to hold this role.I’vemet so manyamazingpeopleand businesses alongthe way. I’ll genuinelymiss theGIMAteam and the events; they’ve been such abig partofthe experienceand always great fun. That said, Ifeel likeI’m leavingGIMAina really strong place, and I’mpleased to be handing over to Martin to takeonthe mantle and lead things forward.”
GTNisdelighted to announced that Vickywillbejoining the team of judgesfor thisyear’s New ProductAwardsatGlee2026.
Journalists gather for the opening of the 2026 Garden Press Event.
VickywithCraig Hall,GIMA's PresidentfromDecoPak.
MartinWard, GIMA's new Director.
At Meadow View Stone with Sarah Hill, GIMA Council Member and Jess Dabell.
SOLEX WORLD CUP
2026
ConcourseSuite, NECBirmingham
Tuesday 7July
6.30pm- 11.30pm
FirstHalf Solex Awards
Hosted by Paul Sinha
Half Time
Hot Food
Music & Networking Foosball Tables
Second Half Round 16
Live World Cup Match - shown on large screens
Strictlylimited to 350guests Bookvia registration portal £100 non-attendancefee applies
Getready to play
Summer starts here —and SOLEXis kicking things off in feel-goodstyle
The SOLEX Awards &Afterparty returns forits thirdyearonTuesday7th July2026, bringingthe celebrations to the Concourse Suiteatthe NEC, Birmingham –this time underthe bannerofthe SOLEX World CupAwardsNight
Limited to just 350 guestsand with a World Cup2026theme setting thetone, this is your chanceto swap theshowfloor for the spotlight andcelebratethe outdoor livingindustry in true SOLEX style —great people, greatatmosphere, delicious food… and abrilliant night out.
Book your place
Footballfocus
Theevening begins withwelcomedrinks from 6.30pm,before thespotlight turns to themainstage forthe SOLEXAwards Ceremony. Hosted by comedian and broadcasterPaul Sinha. Expect laughs, energy andaproper feel-goodvibeas Paul takestothe stage as MC andhelps presentthe SOLEXAwards, recognising excellence andcreativity acrossthe outdoorlivingsector.
Followingthe awards guests move into half-timeenjoyingfantastic food,music and relaxednetworking.Footballtables willbein play throughout theinterval, adding alight-
Tickets must be bookedin advancevia the SOLEX websiteregistrationportal. Attendanceisstrictly capped at 350guests, witha £100 non-attendancefee applicable to confirmed bookings notattended.
Formoreinformation and to secure your place, visit the SOLEX registration portal. www.solexexhibition.com
Thesporting theme forthe SOLEX awards nightcontinues following the successfulF1evening lastyear to coincide with theGrand Prixat Silverstone
hearted, competitiveelement to theevening andencouraging exhibitors andindustry colleagues to connect.
The secondhalfseesguests take to their seats foralivescreening of aWorld CupRound of 16 match on largescreens,bringingshared tournamentdrama to theSOLEXaudience.
Theevent wraps up at 11.30pm,makingit the perfectway to kickoff SOLEX with an unforgettable celebration.
Sun, sea,sci-fi andawards
Anight of seaside fun in Bournemouth as Blue Diamond recognises itstop performing centres.
Over800 people attended the 2026 Blue DiamondAwardsatthe Bournemouth International CentrewhereNewbridge wonthe Oak Garden Centre of the Year for the thirdyear running, Sanders wonthe Young Oak Garden Centreofthe Year Award, Harlowwon the SaplingGarden Centreofthe year andOrchard Park arethe Acorn Garden Centreofthe Year Duringthe sparkling evening,MDAlan Roper told his teams and keysuppliers that in 2025: 6 newcentres were added, £395mturnovercreated anew industrysales record,£27.85m wasspent on acquisitions and £10.56m spent on refurbishment
He went on to announcethat Elveden Garden CentreinSuffolk would open in March 2027 and that workswerestarting on the Peak Gateway Garden Centre. Just last week the acquisition of Holt GardenCentreinNorfolk wasannounced. Ahighlight of theevening wasthe debut showingofanAlanRoper directed andinspired AI video productiontellingthe storyof2025, told as a‘SpaceOdyssey’ mixinginStarTrek, 2001 ASpace Odyssey, Star Wars andevena touchofJames Bond.You canwatch thevideo foryourself using this link:https://youtu.be/ XnhRWJHyoUI
In a spoof,AI generated sci-fi movie, Alan Roper projected avision of Blue Diamond’s future.
BlueDiamond Awards 2022 -The Full Results
GardenCentreofthe Year
• OrchardPark -Acorn
• Newbridge- Oak
GardenCentreofthe YearTheSapling Award
• Harlow
GardenCentreofthe YearTheYoung Oak Award
• Sanders
Profit Gap Improvement
• OrchardPark -Acorn
• Cadbury–Oak
Profit Gap
• Redfields
CentreSecurity
• Cardiff
Customer Experience
• Trelawney –Acorn
• Brambridge– Oak
Home
• Brambridge- BeckyPettigrew– Acorn
• East Bridgeford-AdamSmith –Oak
Fashion
• Weybridge- LydiaMarcar -Acorn
• CotonOrchard-Donna Gee -Oak
Christmas
• Trelawney- Dennis Risdon –Acorn
• Sanders -Suise Keate– Oak
TheMagic of Christmas
• Harlow- Lisa Dellar -Acorn
• Derby-Amanda Higham &RichardHind- Oak
Garden Leisure
• Hereford-Scott O’leary-Harris –Acorn
• Bridgemere–Craig Redford- Oak
Gardening
• 3Shires -Sophie Turner &WorcesterJonathan Fry- Acorn
• Great Amwell -NaomiJeakins -Oak
Seeds and Bulbs
• Nailsworth -Daniel Underhill- Acorn
• PercyThrowers -RichardShuker -Oak
Wild Animal
• Rake-Gaynor Oakes -Acorn
• Sanders -Ben Smith-Oak
JOINUS!
Gain a buying advantage and book an appointment throughout June to view the stunning new ranges introduced into the 2027 Hartman collection
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Seasonal Plants
• Rake-RichardMeads &John Clark -Acorn
• Grosvenor -John Moxon-Oak
HardyPlants
• Rake- RichardMeads -Acorn
• Harlow- Dean Elliot -Oak
Indoor Plants
• Cardiff -Dev Bambhania –Acorn
• Chenies -AnetteDexter-Oak
Food retailer
• Evesham -Siam Gisbourne -Acorn
• Cardiff -JoNicholls -Oak
Barista of the Year
• Derby-CharlotteHassall
Head Chef
• OrchardPark –Jessica Pitman -Acorn
• Brambridge– Adam Gelender -Oak
PastryChef
• Chenies –Katie Chapman -Acorn
• East Bridgeford– Francescca Onorato& Peterborough –TonyMcLean -Oak
Originsofthe Year
• Cadbury
Restaurant of the Year -The AcornAward
• OrchardPark -Acorn
• PercyThrowers -Oak
Restaurant of the Year -The Sapling Award
• Hereford
Restaurant of the Year -The YoungOak Award
• MerePark
Gettogether for Greenfingers
Well over 150garden centres and 83 walkers took part in this year’s Garden Re-Leaf Dayto FUNdraise for the Greenfingers Charity.
Groups of intrepid walkersset off fromBGC Tring in Hertfordshire for the South Walk and ThePickled PheasantatHolme in West Yorkshire’sPeak District for the North Walk to raise funds for Greenfingers Charity on Garden Re-Leaf Day in March.
Walkers could choose from a10mile or 25km (15.5mile) circuit starting and finishing at the garden centreinTring,while 22 people took partinthe North Walk and coveredand impressive13miles.
Time is racing towards10thJune when the 24-strong team of Greenfingerssupporters take on theirchallengetoclimb 5,895m to thetop of MountKilimanjaroinTanzania. So far, they have raised more than £108,000 whichwillgotowards the newhospice garden at NaomiHouse &Jacksplacein Winchester,one of the charity’sbiggest projectsin2026. Some of theteamknuckled down forextra trainingbytakingpartinthe Garden Re-LeafNorth Walk
British Garden Centres
All78storeswhichare partofthe British Garden Centresfamily,tookpartinGarden Re-leaf day to helpachieve its aim of raising £100,000 forGreenfingers during 2026 (almost doubleits 2025 target). Teams hosted adiverse rangeofactivities including raffles,bakesales,pot painting,dog photoshoots,and hamper giveaways and collectively raised awhopping £34,875.91. Some also took on additionalchallenges including thesponsored walk and avirtual indoorcycling challenge. Members from both the Harrogate and Leeds centres also climbed MountSnowdon Fundraising continued with the BGC marketing team running the London LandmarksHalfMarathon andteams from Briggbiking thedistance between allthe garden centres.
Blue Diamond
Although traditionallyjusta one-day event, teams at all53Blue Diamond centres decided to holda full week of gardenthemedactivities.
More than 300childrengot involved with theCreateaMini Veggie Planter eventand Blue Diamond’sGroup RelationshipManager JillKerr says:“It waswonderfultosee so manychildrenfromacrossthe country takingpartinthe veggie growing event and being so proud of their mini planters.”
Blue Diamond also donated£1fromevery sale of its special Greenfingers ‘Friends’ charity roses which it willcontinue to sell throughout the year.These fragrant hybrid tearoses boast beautifulbuttercup-yellow flowers and dark green glossyfoliage. Garden Re-Leaf cupcakesweresold in the group’smain restaurants with all proceeds from the sale of the cakesgoing to the charity.Eachgarden centrealso had aJustGiving QR code at everytillpoint for customers to scan.
Across the UK
•QVC hadthree dedicated Garden Re-Leaf showshostedby Greenfingersfounder,Richard Jacksonwhichraised £12,000.
•The Old Railway LineGarden Centre raised£813 from its Quiz and CurryNight. Just over£300came from thehalf-time raffle.
•Woodmansterne embraced the day by hostingFloral Friday and bake sale.
•Members of theGleeteam took part in the walkswhileothers back in the office hosted abakesale.
•Hozelock also hosted abakesale.
•Haskins garden centresheld instore raffles.
Amassive thankyou to everyone who took part in the day. Thefinal amountraised during Garden Re-LeafDay 2026 will be announced at The Greenfingers CharitySummer Ballon2nd July. This will go towardsHealingHands, Helping Hearts, the latest appeal to raised£1m annually. www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk
Captivating curves
Howanelegant,bespokehorseshoecanopy from Fordingbridge, haselevatedoutdoorretail at Haskins Garden Centre.
When HaskinsGarden Centre approached Fordingbridge to enhancethe outdoorplant area at its West End centre, the ambition wasclear: ashowstopping display area thatencouraged exploration in all seasons, while enabling open-air browsing on fair weatherdays.
Asolution with standout Fordingbridge’ssolution? To utiliseexisting foundations to createabespoke 101m long, 13mwide timber and steel horseshoe canopy that connects the main building and outdoor area.Curving around the space, thestriking canopydraws visitors intothe area and perfectly frames the centre’svastseasonal plant displays.
The curved structureprovides robust weather protection while subtly enhancing theflow and visibilityofthe outdoorspace and increasing dwell time withinthe area.
Theoutcome of Haskins’brief is far morethan acanopy. It’sa longlasting retail asset thatincreases usable displayspace and creates aestheticallypleasing areas that will lastfor decades.
Ano-hasslespacethatdelivers in spades
Forthe Haskinsteam akey benefitwas Fordingbridge’sfully managed,turnkey delivery.Fromremoval of existing structures,throughtofoundationworks, irrigation, canopydesign, manufacture andinstallation.Fordingbridge managed everystage, ensuring minimaldisruption andclearcommunication to help make theprojectrun smoothly andefficiently The result?A standout canopythat has already increased both footfall and dwelltime.
Why leading garden centres choose Fordingbridge
• Decadesofextensivesectorexperience.
• Trusted by theUK’smostrespected garden centrebrands.
• Design-led solutions that maximise year-roundtrading potential
• Turnkey,stressfreedesignand delivery
• All weather performancethat transforms customer experience andprotectsstock
• Sector-leading 25-year guarantees forlong-term peaceofmind.
If you’re ready to elevate your outdoor retail space,get in touch todaytoarrange your complimentarysitevisit.Our expert team is ready to help youimagine what’spossible! Visit: www.fordingbridge.co.uk Tel: 01243554455
Sustainability Directory 2026
The GTN 2026 Sustainability Directory is the place to find and choose suppliers who embrace sustainability as an everyday consideration.
Settingsustainability standards
Each year, the GIMAAwards championcompanies andtheir products for theircommitment to sustainability. The most recent winners will be great additionstoany retail offering.
Getintocomposting
Retailingataround
£69.00, the Elho Green Basics Composter with acapacity of 200L, is aimed at getting morepeople intohome composting. With its roundedshape, soft green colour and easy to open lid and hatch, it looks perfectly at home neara house, on the patio or agardeninany rural or urban setting
AdheringtoElho’sexacting sustainability credentials, thecomposter is made from 100% recycled materials and is 100% recyclable at the end of its life. Elho has an arrangementwith Dobbies stores to host bins for collectingcustomer plastic pots and trays and has BCorp status,with products made in the Netherlands using wind and solar energy.Not only does the composter havegreat sustainable credentials,ithelps theenvironment further by encouragingthe recycling of brownand green wasteturning it into something useful forplants andthe garden, and reducing the wastesenttomunicipal recycling depots.
Growing media boo
media booster with rootgrow™
mycorrhizal fungi and beneficial Bioactive PlantWorks
Ltd is easy to add to any peatgrowing media to encourage plants with stronger roots, vibrant growth, and more flowers and fruit.
Enriched withrootgro mycorrhizalfungi and bacteria, Empathy Bioactiv Compost Improver by Ltdiseasy to addtoa free growingmediatoencourage plantswithstrongerr growth,and more flowe Aperfect linkedsale, it threeyears of trials da growing media. Contai tested greenwaste,plant-derived aminoacids, andbeneficial microbes it is sold in recyclable,weatherresistant packaging.Bysupporting microbiallife, theproduct enhances long-term soil health andstructurekeytoregenerative andsustainable growing practices. It alsoreduces relianceonsynthetic inputs, aligning with eco-concious gardening and can be mixeddirectly into bags of growing media or incorporated directly on to raisedbeds.
A perfect linked sale, it is backed by three years of trials data in peat-free media. Containing PAS100tested green waste, plant-derived
Long lasting andstrong Stronger,tougher andmoredurable than high-carbon steel, Burgon &Ball’s BoronGreen RHS-endorsed gardening ha25-year guarantee. nthe automotive ural sectors,the usedinBoronGreen arange with above andbeyond e-for-like carbon teel madefrom 80% recycled materials,is hwoodhandles ably managed FSC®urces. Packaging is cardusedisrecycled.
Bor RHS-endorsed tools each come with a 25-year Long used in the automotive and agricultural sectors, the boron steel used in BoronGreen tools delivers a range with performance and beyond that of a like-for-like carbon steel tools. Steel made from materials, is partnered with wood handles from sustainably FSC®certified resources. is minimal and card used is recycled.
From
bottles to
The waterproof fabric used for Woodlodge Eco Cushions water bottles
es to cushions ffabricusedfor the oCushions is made from recycled waterbottles with the label of each clearly specifyingthe number of 500ml plasticbottles usedfor each one.
Growing for nature
ing or ture
Lawns Lawn and supports UK native perennial wildflower
grasses attract and sustain pollinators like bumblebees. Resulting are low maintenance, and shade tolerant
Johnsons Lawn SeedNature’sLawn enhances lawn ecology and supports biodiversity by combining UKnative perennialwildflower seeds with lawn grasses to attractand sustainpollinators ke butterflies and bumblebees.Resulting lawns arelow maintenance, drought andshadetolerant and requireno feeding or herbicides. Slowgrowing grassesreducethe need for mowing andonceestablished, lawns providearich habitat forpollinators, attracting them foruptosix months each year.Johnsons produces its ownnative wildflowerseed without pesticides using GPS-guidedsowing and hoeing to virtually eliminateherbicides.
Shed solution
Morethanjust astorage solution,the KeterPotting Shed can also be adedicated workspace andvibrant creativehub for any hobby. Itshybrid roof design features atranslucent sectiontobring in natural sunlight, and an opaque sectiontoprotect plants andtoolsfromunpredictable weather.Fiveuser-friendlywindows open forventilation while twofixedcorner windows, helpmakefor abright and airy environment.All components areresin and 100% recyclable.
Makinga beeline towards sustainability
Primeur’s Mighty Mats EcoDoormat Collection is astylish, sustainablerange designed to deliver high performance
andlong-lasting value.Offeringsuperior durability (leading to fewerreplacements) forhigh-trafficareas, eachmat hasbeen made from recycled materials, offering asolution forconsumers whowant to maintain afunctionalhomewhile supportingsustainability.Designs include barrier matting, rubber scrapers and colourful machinewashable mats and runnerstogiveconsumers theperfect blendofsustainability,practicality,and style –all at acompetitive pricepoint,
Beingwater wise
SealStopbySealStop is an automatic watershut-off devicetoprevent overflow andsubsequent waterwaste when filling up buckets, containers, or troughs.The entire concept is built around only using thewater youneed, reducing waste, and promotingresponsible wateruse.SealStop is manufactured entirely in theUK, supportinglocal businessesand reducing thecarbonfootprint associatedwith overseas productionand transport. Every aspect of thebusinesshas been carefully considered to minimise environmentalimpact, from the recyclable valve to thefully recyclable packaging andlocalproduction.
aspect of the business has
Garden beauties
Year-round interest in thegarden comes from LVBespoke with its Glass&Steel GardenFeature Stakes Collection.Made in theUK, they offer retailers another sales opportunity be organising photographic competitionsofpictures takenthrough glassorb.MadefromUKsteel components andhandfinished in Norfolk reduces air miles
Libertybrings colour andstyle
Premium andlightweight, the Liberty pots from Woodlodge Productshaveahigh-end glazed ceramic effect andare perfect for indoor andoutdoor use.Made from 100% recycled materials andfully recyclableafter use,potsare alsotransported in ecoconsciousPET wrap packaging.Availablein 10 stylish colours andthree versatilesizes, they offer customers choice, aesthetic appeal andaffordability
Sustainability is at theheart of allthe decisionswemakeatWoodmansterne.
Asa family business, we understand theimportance of protecting our environmentfor future generationstoenjoy
We continually inspirenew ways to improveour sustainability effortsby workingwithleading suppliers,whilstresearching andinvesting in newskills andtechnologies. We’recommittedtoimproving processessustainably,while preserving thequality ourretailers love
• 100% plastic-free andrecyclablecards andgiftpackaging
• Greeting cardsdesignedand printedbyusinthe UK
• Vegetableinksusedonpaper from only FSC® certified sustainableforests
• Envelopesmadefrom100%post-consumer wasterecycledpaper
• Distributedbyusfromone of thegreenestwarehousesinthe UK
SELECT CATEGORYMANAGEMENT
Aseamlessend-to-endmanaged servicefor your greetingcardand gift packagingdisplays, alreadyenjoyed by many of theverybest retailersacrossthe country.
From planning to presentation,you canexpect:
• Tailored planning andbespoke assortmentscreated foryourstore
• Access to multiple publishers.Woodmansternerangesplustrusted partners
• Expert merchandisingwithprofessionally designed andregularly updateddisplays
• Cost &environmental benefits realised by efficientstock management andreplenishment
Contactusto find outhow we can helpyourbusiness flourish 01923 200600 sales@woodmansterne.co.uk
SUSTAINABILITY DIRECTORYFOR 2026
GTN’s 2026 Sustainability Directory provides an easy way to find suppliers committed to improving theirgreen credentials in the workplaceand producing eco-sensitiveproducts.
AutoPotWatering Systems AutoPotWateringSystems allow growers of all abilities to grow any plant,anywhere, power-free, withzerowaste, and no mains waterrequired. Theseeconomical, sustainable, environmentally-friendly innovationsare RHS endorsed and produced in the U.K. from 100% recycled plastics. www.autopot.co.uk
BulldogTools All Bulldog toolsare designed and built to last.This is fundamentaltoBulldog Tool’s sustainability strategy,ensuringits tools last for yearssotheydon’t need to be replaced very often (if at all). www.bulldogtools.co.uk
Khloris Watering Systems
Khloris is thefirst automatic,power-free,fully-responsiveplantwateringsystem to be designed forliving rooms,balconies, and conservatories. Available in three colours, it combinesatasteful, sculpted, interior-friendly aesthetic withhighly effective, easy-to-useirrigation technology.
This RHS Endorsedirrigation solution requires no electricityormains waterand createszerowaste Becausethe system is controlled entirely by uptake, every drop of waterand fertiliser goestothe plantsmakingita truly economical andecologically sustainable innovation.
Khloris by AutoPotWatering Systems
RRP: £89.95 www.autopot.co.ukmail@autopot.co.uk
Thebeige colourisnew in the Made in Holland collection.Adding anaturalcolour to the assortment.Abasiccolour that fits into any environment but stillgives your home or garden afresh look
Thepots aremadeinHollandand come with a lifetimewarranty. Availableindifferent textures, modelsand sizes.
From £47,99
Capi Europe BV (Via Treadstone) www.capi-europe.com
Tel: +44(0)1978 664667
Email: sales@treadstoneproducts.com
Durston GardenProducts, afamily-runSomersetbusiness with 35+ years’experience, offers innovative, exclusive peat-free growing media, outperformingcompetitorsintrials while meetingUKgarden retailers’diverse demands. www.durstongardenproducts.co.uk
Elho We areaDutch familybusinesswith more than 200 passionategreen fanswho produce sustainable designflowerpots and everything that goes withthem. Everythingtomakesurethat people surroundthemselves withasmuchgreeneryaspossible. Andwe’ve beendoingsosince 1964 www.elho.com.eu
EvergreenGardenCare prioritises environmentalprotection by its transitionofMiracle-Groand Levingtonrangestobe100% peat-free. They haveinvestedover£7million, providing sustainable alternatives that preserve peatlands. www.lovethegarden.com
Durstons Advanced
Durstons Advanced is ahigh-performance, future-ready peat-free compost range independentlyproventodeliver vigorous growth and abundantblooms.Itincludes Multi-Purpose Compost,Organic Peat-Free Multipurpose,Grow-in-the-Bag and other speciality mixes,all enrichedwith Gro Boostand GroFibrefor superior water retention and nutrients. Ideal formodern gardenersseeking sustainable,top-performing growing media.
DustonGarden Products
RRP: POA www.durstongardenproducts.co.uk
Miracle-Gro®Compost –All Purpose
Our premium, nutrient-rich compost is provento grow healthier plants -atleast twiceasbig as those growninordinary compost.Miracle-Gro® compost enablesstrong root developmentwithimproved waterand nutrient absorption, resulting in bigger plants,moreflowers and fruitsand greener, healthier leaves –guaranteed,givinggardeners confidencetogrowall aroundthe garden
Evergreen Garden Care RRP £7.99(40L) www.lovethegarden.com evergreen@vccproar.com
EP Barrus Town &CountryfromBarrus is recognised as one of the UK’s leading gardening brands and offers oneofthe most comprehensivecollections of gardening gloves, footwear and accessories. www.townandco.com
Firestorm Heaters Firestorm Heaters utiliseBritish wood pellets sourcedfromScottish trees. All the trees arereforested and ‘GrowninBritain’ certified. It uses 100% recyclable packaging to shipits products www.firestormheaters.co.uk
Formbar Ltd Reduce, reuseand recycle areatFormbar’s core Supplying qualityproducts that havelongevity,supporting through maintenanceand usingrecycled material.Fromfirststep to checkout, Formbar supplies sustainable equipment. www.formbar.co.uk
Goodlifegateway LiquidOrganic Plant food,madesustainably from plants for plants, with 100% recyclable packaging andzero wasteinproduction, storingand shipping.The BEST Organic Plant Food on the market www.goodlifegateway.com
Hortiwool Hortiwool is afamily businesswhichhas worked with natural materials for almost twodecades.Hands down,our absolutefavouriteiswool.Our dreamisthat everyone comes to love wool as much as we do,along withbenefittingfromits awesome properties as youcultivateand create in an around your home and garden www.hotiwool.com
Johnsons Lawn Seed Established in 1820JohnsonsLawnSeed is the oldest lawn seedbrand in the UK with along and prestigious record of product innovation and grassbreeding. www.johnsonslawnseed.com
Keter Keterhas designedall itsproductstobe100%recyclable and is on an ambitious trajectorytoincrease theuse of recycled contentinits productsfrom40% in 2020 to 55% in 2025.Because theearth is our home and our workplace-welikeitand the people who livehere. www.keter.com
LAVA-LITE® provides retailers with sustainably focused horticulture and pest controlproducts, combiningresponsible sourcing,reduced environmentalimpact andreliableperformance to meet growing consumer demand for greener,compliant retail solutions. www.lava-lite.co.uk
Melcourt Melcourthas alwaystaken the protection of ourplanet seriously.Infact, it has beencarefullyblending scienceand nature for over 40 years. www.melcourt.co.uk
Pelsis Doff Pelsisiscommittedtodelivering sustainable and innovativesolutions, providingpeaceofmind, protecting public health,and working in harmony with nature.Withenvironmentally conscious pest management and garden carebrands, including Green Protectand Green Fingers. www.doff.co.uk
PrimeurLtd Pioneersofrecycled rubber,Primeur hashelped to divertmillionsoftyres from reaching landfill, witheachone reimagined to becomepartofamulti-award-winning garden product range. www.primeur.co.uk
RocketGro With unmatchedeco-story,includingthe completion of abrand-new CO2captureplant RocketGro, aBritishorganic peat-freebrand,isontrack to becomethe UK’s firstclimate positivegrowingmedia supplier. www.rocketgro.co.uk
elho,the market leader in sustainable plantpots, has expanded itsindoor range with three newcollections.Facet is a design-led round pot, available in multiple sizes and sophisticated colourways. The gradientcollection features soft,earthy toneswith aceramic-lookfinish. Vibes returns with itssignatureribbed texture, refreshed in contemporary colours -linen white, fern green and anthraciteto meetevolving consumer tastes elho
RRP: Facetfrom£6.29, Gradient £12.49,Vibesfrom£6.49 Website: www.elho.com/enEmailaddress:david.nicholson@elho.nl
AceLawn
AceLawnfromJohnsons Lawn Seed is alowmaintenancelawnmix designed to work with nature. Combining perennial ryegrass, redfescue and Microclover®, it requires no fertiliser,needs less mowing and staysgreen naturally.Droughttolerantand hard-wearing, AceLawnalso supports biodiversitybyproviding valuable forage forpollinatorswhen allowedtoflower.
Johnsons Lawn Seed
RRP: £10.99 (to cover20sqm) www.johnsonslawnseed.com elho
LAVA-LITE NO-GNATS
LAVA-LITE NO GNATS is asustainable natural mineral soil topper that prevents fungus gnats and promotes healthyplantgrowth. Available in 1litre and 3litre pouches, it is reusable,mess free,and shelf ready.Perfectfor houseplants and greenhouses,itoffersretailers high margin potential, encouragesrepeatpurchases,and appeals to ecoconscious customersseeking effectiveplantcaresolutions
RRP 1Litre
£9.99
RRP 3Litre£15.49 www.lava-lite.co.uk enquiries@lava-lite.co.uk
Peat-FreeMulti-Purpose Compost(50L)
RocketGro’sPeat-Free Multi-Purpose Composst is abio-active, nutrient-rich blend designed foor versatile garden use, and providesatleast 12 weeksoffeed thankstothe inclusion of Orgaanic Fertiliser Superfood.Suitable forpots, beds, borders,containers,and planting out fruit treees, it enhances plant health and yields.This compost is peat-free,chemical-free, andanimal productfree,offering asustainable choicefor gardenners.
RocketGro
RRP –from£6.00 hello@rocketgro.co.uk www.rocketgro.co.uk
Sipcam Trusted by gardeners,loved by plants, andbackedby science, ecofective® doesn’tdopoisons orpointless plastic.Every product is packed with care, poweredbynature, and provento makeyour garden bloom www.sipcamuk.co.uk
Treadstone The awardwinning ClipGlove range nowfeatures up to 40% recycled content per pair. Foran even stronger eco message, why not tryour Bottle Glove range, withlinersmade from 95% recycled plastic bottles www.treadstoneproducts.com
UK Greetings Our world means the world to us, we are committed to sustainability from theproducts we createand supply to theserviceweprovide. www.ukgreetings.co.uk
Vitavia Sustainablealuminumgreenhouses from Vitaviaare durable, corrosion resistantand recyclable. This givesthe greenhouse longevity,reducing the need forfrequentreplacement and the recyclability lessens the environmentalimpactby promoting acircular economy. www.vitavia.co.uk
Vitax Vitax offers acomprehensiverange of organic and sustainable products from fertilisers such as 6X,topestcontrol with Slug Gone.Recent additions includea neworganic house plant feed. www.gardenworld.co.uk/trade
RocketGroComposts
Webb GardenPower Bringing to the market theWebbEcoFriendly CordlessGarden Tools,designed for optimal performance with asuper-fast battery recharge.The 20V Webb Ecocordless rangeprovidesaneco-friendly and cost-efficient alternative to traditional petrol options. Quiet to useand cordlessindesign,the newrange offerscomplete freedomwith no powercablestoget in theway or hold youup. Nowavailable to order from Britishgarden equipment manufacturerWebb. www.webbgardenpower.co.uk
Woodmansterne As athird-generation familybusiness, Woodmansterneunderstandsthe importanceofprotecting our environmentand safeguarding it for thefuture. It is committedto using sustainable materials and practiceswhereverpossible. www.woodmansterne.com
Zest Committed to theenvironment and ethical sourcing, together with supply partners,Zest is collaboratingona10,000acrereplanting scheme in Eastern Europe. All products are madefromslow-grownsoftwood from PEFCcertifiedforests. www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk/our-story/sustainabilityenvironment/
The RocketGro storyisthe biggesteco storyatscale tocome out of the UK compost producingindustry since modernproduction of compost began
•Peat-Free &Coir-Free
•Soil Association Approved Organic
•100% Sustainable
•100% British
•Endorsed by River Cottage
•Powered by Digestatefibre and an added Organic FertiliserSuperfood for afull 3-month+ feed
Leadingthe way
TheGardens Group is once again leadingthe wayinproviding customers with sustainableChristmas decorations and giftoffers. It’s three centresofCastle Gardens, Brimsmoreand Poundburytook home severalaccoladesinGTN’s Greatest Christmas Awards which were presented in February at Spring Fair Forafullaccount of all winnerssee the February and March issuesofGTN and to keep ahead of all thingssustainable,signupfor theGTN Xtra newsletter at www.gardentradenews.co.uk
ecofective® Nourish &Bloom
Nourish &Bloom is fast,simple,and effectivewithpureplant powerinevery drop This fast-acting liquid formula is perfect forbusygardenerswho want visible results without fuss. Healthy plants startwithhealthy soil, buteventhe best soil needs support. SoilActivator is the magic blendinNourish& Bloom Granular PlantFood containing sevenstrains of beneficial bacteria thatcreatericher soil, stronger plants,and moreblooms
Nourish &Bloom AllPurpose Granular PlantFood –1.2 Ltr(RRP £8.99)
Nourish& Bloom All Purpose Liquid Plant Foor Concentrate– 350g (RRP £6.99) & 800g (RRP £9.99)
www.ecofective.uk.comenquiries@sipcamhg.co.uk
ClipGlove -Now with Recycled Content!
AlwaysStylish, AlwaysPractical, Always Dependable. Theaward winning ClipGlove range nowfeaturesupto40% recycled contentper pair,and with 4Gardeners’ World Best Buys in ourrange youcan be confidentour glovesare theverybest foryour customers. Foraneven stronger ecomessage,why nottry our Bottle Glove range,withlinersmade from 95%recycled plastic bottles.
ClipGlove -Alwaysapair,never apart!
Treadstone Products www.treadstoneproducts.com sales@treadstoneproducts.com
Webb 39cm Petrol Lawnmower WER16DV130
Idealasafirstpetrolstep-upforhomeownersmovingfromelectric, thismodeldeliversdependablepetrolperformanceinalightweight, easy-to-handleformatsuitedtosmallerandmediumgardens.
Forretailers,itisastrongentry-levelpetrolproductwithclearvalue positioning,appealingtocustomersseekinganaffordable,reliable mowerthatcombineseaseofusewiththebenefitsofpetrolpower.
SSP £169.99 TRADE SUPPLY: Contact
C Cordless Larger Gardens
This40V47cmself-propelledlawnmoweroffers powerfulcordlessperformanceforlargerlawns,wiith 4Ahdualbatteries&charger,3-in-1cuttingversatility, LEDlights,anduprightspace-savingstorage.
SSP £419.99 TRADE SUPPLY: Contact
Suppliedwith30cmbrushcutter/linetrimmer, 20cmpolesaw,40cmhedgetrimmer,dual 4Ahbatteries,andcharger.
SSP £249.99 TRADE SUPPLY: Contact
Entry Petrol Lawnmower
Shared perspectives
Dries Jansen, SidRaisch andJohnStanley offer an international perspectiveonwhatgardencentresaroundthe worldcan learn from each other, backed up by data analysis.
Garden centres areplaces of routine and ritual.
People visitthem on quiet mornings, betweenerrands, or as part of aweekend habit. Theyare deeply rooted in local life, shaped by climate, seasons and long-standing customer relationships. Yetwhen garden centres from different countries areviewed side by side,something unexpected becomes clear.The furtheryou look beyond borders, the morefamiliar customerbehaviourbegins to feel.
Thisobservationlies at the heartofashared perspective developed by Fred de Rijcke and Dries Jansen who arebasedinThe Netherland and connectedthrough GardenCenterAdvice. Their work acrossEurope, North America and the Middle East hasshown that while garden centresmay differ in scale, style and culture, theway peopleexperience them follows remarkably consistent patterns.
Wherever agarden centre is located, the first moments inside aredecisive Visitors instinctively assess whether the
spacefeels welcoming,understandableand calm. Light, scale and movement areregisteredbefore individualproducts arenoticed.Withinseconds,a quietjudgement is made, does this placeinviteme to stay,orencourage me to move on?
These reactions arenot shaped by nationality. Theyare human. While habits differ between countries -how often people visit,what they grow and howmuch theyspend -the need fororientation, comfortand trustappears everywhere.
Keep it logical to makeshopping easier
Acrossmarkets, oneinsight continues to surface People buymoreeasily when agardencentre feelslogical. Not becauseeverything is explained, butbecause the spacequietlyguides them When visitors sensewheretheyare,where to go next andwhat kind of offer to expect,theyslow down. Theystay longer, exploremorefreely and makedecisionswith less hesitation.
Understanding these patterns requires a particular wayoflooking Without relying on fixed models, this approach allows insights to surface thatwould normallyremainhidden from view.It shifts attention from isolatednumbers or trends to the relationships betweenspace,behaviour and context.
Theseare notdramatic revelations,but subtle shiftsand recurring signals —small inconsistencies between spaceand performance, or similaritiesbetween seemingly unrelated locations.Datamining, in this sense,islessabout predictionand more about observation. It helps reveal howpeople actually behave,rather than howweexpect them to behave,and it brings structuretoinsights that would otherwiseremain intuitive or unnoticed.
Takentogether,the dataoffersarealisticsense of howmuch untapped potential may exist
Inother words, it becomespossibletoestimate howmuch room thereisfor improvement in a given gardencentre, notasapromise,but as a groundedindicationofwhatmight alreadybe within reach. When agardencentrestruggles to meet expectations,the cause is rarely singular. More often,itisa questionofcoherence Theentrance may promiseinspiration while theinteriordelivers complexity. When space andfunctionsupport each other,visitors rarely notice.Theysimply feel comfortable.
“The further youlook beyond borders,the more familiar customer beginstofeel."
Data can supportthis wayofseeing,but only when treated with care. Turnoverfigures alone rarely explain much. Theybecomemeaningful onlywhen viewedalongsidefloorspace, location and surrounding population.Used this way, data does not judge performance.It provides perspective, helping outline what might reasonably be expected in agiven setting
Data mining
An important partofuncovering thesepatterns lies in the waydata is explored.Ratherthan using data to confirm assumptions, thefocusisondata mining: carefully searching through largesetsof informationtosee what naturally emerges. By combiningfiguresonturnover, floor space, location, catchment areasand store characteristics, relationshipsbecome visiblethat aredifficult to spot in daily operations.
Lookinginternationally, thegardencentresector is clearlyevolving.Businesses arebecominglarger andmoreprofessional.Investors aretakinga closer interest. Attention is shifting from total turnover to return persquaremetre. At the same time, flexibility is increasinglyimportant, as seasons,product categories andcustomer expectations change more quicklythanbefore Thesedevelopments arenot instructions to follow,but signals worthreflectingon.
Every gardencentrehas itsown identity, historyand environment. What is universal arethe questionsthatremain relevanteverywhere.Does thewhole stillmakesense?Dospace, assortment andservice reinforceeachother?Wouldthe shop feel intuitive to someone visiting forthe first time?
Gardencentres that continue to askthese questionstendtoremainrelevant. Notbychasing trends,but by paying closeattention to how peopleactually behave once they walk through thedoor.
Perhapsthatisthe most consistent lesson visible across borders: people may differ in culture andhabit,but theway they experiencespace— andmakechoices within it is surprisinglysimilar
JohnStanley:
John has been aconsultant to the industrysinceits origins 50 years ago.Heisanauthor of numerous books on gardenretailing and operates in 35 countries.John is based in Western Australia,where, along with his wife, Linda, they operateanaward-winning sweet chestnut agritourism farm. john@johnstanmley.com.au
SidRaisch:
Sid has worked with garden centres acrossthe USA for many years andisbasedin California. Sid and John have joined many times to present workshops across the USA. Sid hasthe capability of challenging your thinking and will bring that insight to the articles sid@advantagedevelopment.ai
Dries Jansen:
Dries, along with his business partner Fred, arethe owners of Garden Center Advice,an international advisorycompany to garden centres based in the Netherlands. Theyhave advised on garden centres from IcelandtoDubai info@gardencenteradvice.com
Story tellingplants
In thismonth’s Planteria page,webring new introductions which allcome with great opportunities for themed displays.
Farplants keep sales racing
Farplants continues to bring garden centres introductionswithgreat opportunities for themed planteria displays. One of its new plants forthis year is Ajuga reptans ‘Midnight Mystery’ found as aseedling by Adrian Bloom at Bressingham Gardens, Norfolk.Inspring, spikes of pink flowers contrastwellwith glossy, dark bronzefoliage whileits vigorous habit makes it agreat candidatefor groundcover. But that’snot all, it alsocreates astatement in acontainerand its name lends itself perfectly to being promoted as murder mysterythemed display.
Atrio of clematis
Popular Euphorbia x martinii‘Ascot Rainbow’ has been joined by ‘Ascot Petite’, which brings popsof colour to thesmallest space.Reaching aheightofwidth of just30cm, this roundedshaped perennial hasbright lime-green flowers which shineagainst thedark green foliage and purplestems.
Forgardencentres near horse racetracks or equine centres, it’s another plant to promotewhen there’saraceday planned, or with apictureback drop as Farplants has demonstrated.
Clematis Queen’sNurse,for theNational Garden Scheme, is one of threenew cultivars coming to the marketfromworld renown expertRaymond Evison.Being launched at the RHS Chelsea FlowerShow in May,Queen’sNurse stands out forits
bloomswithadeeprosy-pinkcentral band, paleedgesand primroseyellowanthers. It isjoined by Clematis Ithemba,with bright whitebloomswithadelicatepink barand ruffled edges,and Clematis Eliza displayingpaleviolet/blue flowers maturing to purewhite
Grow arainbow
Frank PMatthews celebratesan impressive milestone thisyearwith 125 yearsofgrowing trees.A yetunnamed apple will be unveiled later on this year to help commemoratethe anniversary, but in the meantime, StephDunn James, Sales Director,ispromoting anew apple called Eric’sRainbow. “It’saninteresting novelty and abit of fun–something you don’tnormallysee,” shesays.
Bred in Croatia, fruits have stripy skin, stripywoodand slightly variegated leaves. Latetoripen, pickingtime is end of October into November,and fruitstores well into February. Thefleshiswhiteand doesn’t brownwhen cut making it agreat choice forsaladsand forgardeners too.
With big,yellowtrumpets, the new Narcissus ‘Hever Castle’isastraditional style daffodil but with modern attributes. Initially only available in relatively small numbersfromTaylorsBulbs through itsspecialist onlinechannel (bulbs.co.uk), theplan is forstockstobebulked up over thenextfew years forgarden centre saleshopefully from 2028.‘Hever Castle’has improved disease resistancecompared with older cultivars such as ‘King Alfred’,itisrobust and astrongmultiplier making it an excellentchoice forbrighteninguplarge areas.
Steph and her daughter Evie promoted apple Eric’s Rainbow at theGarden Press Event in February.
su mer, a swallow
One summer, aswallow doesnot make
Will Armitage, HTAPresident
Avid viewers of my HTAvlog (a benefit of HTAmembership) will knowthat earlier this month, I spotted my first swallowof 2026 hereinthe North Peaks, and we’vealso gota blooming marvellous display of spring colour in the garden
At time of writing,I’vejust photographed somebeautiful appleblossom and the prominent, colourful larch flowers.But right on cue, we’venow experienced frosts, hail, rain, snow,and another cold blast of air
Just as the warm weather arrived, we were alsoreviewingthe retail sales figures for March and comparing them to 2025,which did not makefor encouraging reading.The fewwarm days at thestartofApril provided the emotional boost we all needed; however, we mustn’tget disheartened, as this is typical UK spring weather.When comparing the retail figures to 2024,2026lookspromising and servesasareminder of how lovely the startofspring wasin2025.
In timeslikethesewe must be brave andput the ongoingsuccess of the business first.
Cost increasetirade
The otherhot topic currentlybeing discussed across our sector,and many others,isthe imminent burden of the increasesinemploymentcosts and the costs ofdoing business. Iknowmost of us have been budgeting and scenario planning or ‘war gaming’ (for those playing businessjargon bingo)for the past 12 months,but none of us werequiteprepared to be hit with theprice of energyincreasing the wayithas.
In the past, ahealthy business-wide Gross Profit has been the buffer to ride these increases until inflation catchesup, but the recent tirade of cost increases has eroded this buffer,and it’sahardline to tread Businesses areaccused of being greedyif
theymaketoo much, or of being ‘zombie organisations’iftheydon’tmakeenough.
In timeslikethese we must be braveand put the ongoing successofthe business first. Ratherthan implementing large, broad, company-wide prices, we should consider smaller inflationaryraises on selected products,which can helpeasethe issue. What morecan youoffer to justifyan increase that will appeal to thecustomer and not cost youthe earth? Aretherealternative product ranges or categories youcan try?
Nowisthe time to give it ago; afterall, necessity is the mother of invention.
Find out more
TheHorticultural Trades Association is the UK industry’s leading membership organisation and welcomes all sectorsofenvironmental horticulture.
To learn more,pleasevisit www.hta.org.uk or to enquire aboutmembershipplease email: membership@hta.org.uk
