GTN June-July 2026 SOLEX Preview Issue - Garden Trade News UK

JUNE/JULY 2026

gardentradenews.co.uk

Advice & information for garden centre professionals

25 PAGE SOLEX PREVIEW

Summer is in the air at SOLEX 2026

SOLEX 2026 PREVIEW ISSUE

JOHN RAVENSCROFT (1936–2026) Garden centre pioneer remembered

CHARITY GOLF DAY

GIMA in action for Greenfingers

BRIDGEMERE SHINES

Blue Diamond nursery developments

Comment JUNE/JULY 2026

gardentradenews.co.uk

Above and beyond… literally

W

hy would a team of industry folk and supporters travel to Africa to trek for six days up to the top of Mount Kilimajaro at 5,895 meters above sea level and then scramble back down in two days? To create another magical Greenfingers Charity garden at Naomi & Jacks children’s hospice in Winchester of course!

The team had raised a whopping £237,430 in donations as this issue of GTN goes to press. What a huge result for taking on a huge challenge. We salute every one of the trekkers and will bring you extensive coverage in the next issue of GTN magazine. In the meantime you can help them get to their target of £250,000

Summer is in the air at SOLEX 2026

SOLEX 2026 PREVIEW ISSUE

JOHN RAVENSCROFT (1936–2026) Garden centre pioneer remembered

4 7 12 15

43 48 50 51 53 54 55

Tribute to John Ravenscroft Growing plants the Blue Diamond way New era for Durstons Garden Products GTN’s SOLEX 2026 preview 18 SOLEX Exhibitor plan and listing 20 Welcome to SOLEX 2026 23 SOLEX Afterparty, awards and events 24 People-powered design from Bramblecrest 26 Nine pages of SOLEX exhibitor news 34 Garden escape competition from Supremo 39 Making Napolean famous GIMA charity golf day Connecting Fandango brands Challenges for the future – EHG Update from Boyd Douglas-Davies Reconnect your website - Adapt or Die Talking Plant Healthy – GTN Planteria Why SOLEX matters - LOFA Viewpoint Getting ready for Summer - HTA Viewpoint

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

CHARITY GOLF DAY

GIMA in action for Greenfingers

BRIDGEMERE SHINES

Blue Diamond nursery developments

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING in donations at: https://www.justgiving.com/ campaign/greenfingers-kilimanjaro2026 and see all the updates we published in the GTN Xtra e-mail newsletter by subscribing for free at www.gardentradenews.co.uk.

Back at home we are gearing up for what could be the hottest SOLEX ever, not just because of the current heatwave, but also because sales of furniture and BBQ’s have gone through the roof with Summer finally arriving and the prospect of World Cup related garden parties. There is even a World Cup Party at SOLEX! We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at the NEC over the three days of SOLEX 2026, 7th, 8th and 9th July.

See you there!

Trevor Pfeiffer

In this issue...

25 PAGE SOLEX PREVIEW

Advice & information for garden centre professionals

Advertisers in this issue 2 Celtic Leisure 6 Glee and Autumn Fair 11 Melcourt 14 Museums & Galleries 16 Celtic Leisure 21 Zest 22 Innovators International 27 Norfolk Leisure 30 Hartman 40 Napolean 41 SOLEX 2026 42 Royal Garden 44 Webb – Handy Distribution 45 PATS 2026 46 Elho 47 Durstons 52 Four Oaks Trade Show 52 NEXXT – Garden Girls 56 SOLEX 2026

Garden Trade News Potting Shed Press Ltd Dairy Drove Thorney Peterborough PE6 0TX Tel 01733 775700 www.gardentradenews.co.uk THE GTN TEAM Editor Trevor Pfeiffer trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk Features Editor Anisa Gress anisa@pottinghsedpress.co.uk Advertising Sales Alan Burdon Alan@pottingshedpress.co.uk Digital Editor Neil Pope neil@pottingshedpress.co.uk Subscriptions Karen Pfeiffer karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk Design & Production AT Graphics Ltd www.atgraphicsuk.com Lucy Carnell – Design Alun Jones – Production Manager Robert Tipping – Managing Director James Tipping – Technical Director Printing CG Print Ltd Do you qualify for a copy of GTN?

If you’d like to be added to the GTN distribution list, please send your details to Karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk to see if you qualify to be included.

Alternatively, if you prefer your Garden Trade News digitally, sign up for GTN Xtra, our weekly e-mail newsletter at www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Potting Shed Press Ltd Garden Trade News is published by Potting Shed Press Ltd who also publish: GTN Bestsellers, GTN Xtra, Glee Daily News and the Glee Catalogue, and the Solex Sun. Potting Shed Press also supply Garden Radio to over 100 garden centres across the country.

Director Trevor Pfeiffer

SMALL PRINT: All material © Potting Shed Press Ltd 2026. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form whatsoever, either for sale or not, without the express permission of the publishers. The information supplied in this publication is published in good faith and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. Potting Shed Press Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused by reliance on information contained in this publication or in the event of any bankruptcy or liquidation or cassation of the trade of any company, individual or firm mentioned, is hereby excluded.

June/July 2026 3

John Ravenscroft (1936–2026)

A passion for plants and advice John Ravenscroft, who has died aged 89, was well known in the industry for his pioneering work at Bridgemere Garden World.

J

ohn Ravenscroft VMH, renowned horticulturist, nurseryman, garden centre pioneer, celebrity TV gardener passed away peacefully at home, Cherry Tree Park on Tuesday 26th May 2026. It was here that he and his wife Liz created a 50 acre arboretum, continuing his lifelong passion for plants and establishing an exceptional collection in a quiet corner of north Shropshire.

John was awarded the VMH medal by the Royal Horticultural Society in 2008 and was appointed RHS Vice President in 2010. The RHS cited him as: “a celebrated nurseryman and co-founder of Bridgemere Show Gardens. A recipient of the RHS Victoria Medal of Honour and RHS Vice President, he is widely recognised for his outstanding contribution to British horticulture. With a career spanning more than 70 years, he has played a pivotal role in mentoring the next generation of horticulturists. His expertise and dedication continue to have a lasting impact on the horticultural community.”

Bridgemere Garden World, the nursery and the Show Gardens were purchased from Wyevale by Blue Diamond in 2019, and Alan Roper, Blue Diamond CEO has told GTN Xtra: “John was forthright with a can-do attitude; he was for me one of the great founding fathers of garden centres but he above all others went one step further in creating Bridgemere Show Gardens, which became a national attraction. His passion for plants drove his success.

“Selling the business all those years ago was a hard decision but as he said he did it for his children. Witnessing its decline over 20 years was not easy for him. I am pleased he lived to see his business and gardens restored and his legacy continuing.

“We will arrange a memorial event and create the John Ravesncroft Memorial

4 June/July 2026

Garden in the Show Gardens honouring his achievements.”

Wider contributions Using the show gardens at Bridgemere, John regularly presented Gardener’s Diary on ITV through the 80’s and 90’s. Taking up that mantle now is David Domoney with the Step-by-Step gardening series.

David told GTN Xtra: “John was one of horticulture’s true pioneers, a man whose passion, courage, and extraordinary knowledge inspired generations to see the beauty and value of ornamental plants.

His infl uence helped shape our industry, influence touched countless gardeners, growers, and friends along the way. Horticulture has not simply lost an expert, it has lost one of its champions.”

Most widely known for creating Bridgemere Garden World garden centre, at one point the largest garden centre in the UK, and its Show Gardens, John was also a long-time contributor to Garden Trade News writing a regular column. In GTN March 1993 he wrote about his 10 golden rules for trade, which we have re-published opposite. 33 years on John’s advice is still a timely reminder for us all.

The team at GTN, present and old thank John for his wisdom and vision. We send our heartfelt condolences to Johns family.

The funeral will be at St Luke’s Hodnet Shropshire on Monday 29th June.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

John Ravenscroft (1936–2026)

Golden rules to trade by

S

Nursery Stock column by John Ravenscroft from Garden Trade News, March 1993.

ome 45 per cent of the annual turnover of a garden centre will happen in an 11 to 12 week period though there are many constraints which may stop us achieving our full potential that is, what we can do on a fine day in April.

Here are some ideas which should help to limit the constraints and maximise our potential

have prominence in January/February but by the time Spring arrives, people are coming to buy readily if ever they are going to.

Discount/giveaway signs may need to become prominent again in July when turnover can be as low as one third of the peak period, but do not destroy the profitability of your best period by over-using them in Spring.

Scrawled, misspelt messages on pieces of cardboard tend to appear like mushrooms overnight if not controlled.

1. Staffing Recruit all temporary staff in good time for them to receive adequate training before the start of the season, i.e. at least a month before things get busy. This also allows time for a few leavers and/or non-starters.

These extra staff must know where things are and be willing to help with lifting etc.

What they must not try to do is to hand out advice for which they are not qualified.

Try to ensure that permanent staff have had some holiday before the busy period gets under way.

Carefully planned rotas should be worked out in conjunction with previous records to ensure that the times of the day which do most of the turnover are fully covered e.g. more business is likely in the 2 hours between 2 and 4 o’clock than from 8 to 2 o’clock. Also, ensure that all staff are easily identifiable.

2. Car Parking Make sure you have enough traffic bollards, that the far reaches of the car park have been tidied up and that the signposting/ markings are clear enough to allow customers to depart easily as well as get in.

3. Pathways All pathways outside need to be “2 families wide” with no dead ends. They should be swept regularly, kept clean and have as few puddles as possible!

4. Machinery/Equipment Ensure that all important pieces of machinery have been fully serviced e.g. dishwasher in the cafe, forklifts, standby generator, loudspeaker/PA system etc.

Names of contacts and telephone numbers for service/maintenance companies should be checked and displayed where personnel can have ready access to the information.

Spare tills are absolutely vital. Try to have a

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

7. Supply of shop goods Make certain you know the response time of your main suppliers and keep in touch with them, because somebody has to be first and somebody has to be last in the supply of anything.

8. Plant Supplies

few dry runs off a very busy day to ch heckk thatt all your systems and procedures can cope.

5. Advertising Advertising for the Spring should have begun in the middle of February to let the world know you exist. Advertising closer to Easter is purely product-based in order to compete with the multiples.

6. Signs These should be consistent in typeface and layout and are required at several different levels:(a) The “you are here” destination signs (b) Directional signs for the major layout Once inside the premises, signs which I would call “Welcome/Destination signs” are a waste of time. People have already realised where they are, but need to know the overall layout of the site. In our case, leaflets help with this. (c) Promotional signs and labels for the major plants which will be sold at a normal price.

(These must be portrayed as desirable and something to be coveted). (d) Promotional offer signs drawing attention to particular bargains - these must not dominate. It would be excusable for them to

Review all stock which will be arriving under different headings: Hardy nursery stock - trees, shrubs, conifers and climbers Impulse lines - 9 cm herbaceous, heathers, alpines Bedding - frost-tolerant and frost-tender The co-operation of suppliers is more likely if they are receiving prompt payment; they too are under great pressure at this time of the year.

Each plant has its day and must be prominently featured when this occurs. If, however, as is usual with the sale of 70-80 per cent of plants, the remainder must be given a subsidiary position as soon as their key period is over, to allow new stock to be displayed and above all be absolutely full of stock as it looks more important.

9. Customer care Never, when under pressure, discuss or allow your staff to discuss your problems with customers. They are only interested in their own problems, not yours, so it is no good saying “we are rushed off our feet” or “our suppliers have done this, that or the other”.

They will not thank you for doing so.

10. Enjoyment Finally, try to ensure that all visitors to your business enjoy their experience - and that also includes your suppliers and their representatives. Without their co-operation, you would not have a business.

John Ravenscroft runs Bridgemere Garden World near Nantwich.

June/July 2026 5

Europe’s biggest buying moment One free ticket gives you access to Glee (8-10 September) and Autumn Fair (6-9 September) as they run side-by-side on 8-9 September. Meet 1,200+ suppliers across garden, home, gift and lifestyle, in a single trip to the NEC Birmingham.

Get your free ticket or visit gleebirmingham.com

Interview

Seizing opportunities to secure stock Along with its 54 garden centres, the Blue Diamond group now also runs six nurseries.

GTN talks to Jim Teague about how they supply the centres and how the company is working to return its largest site, Bridgemere Nursery, to its former glory.

F

Jim Teague with fivelitre digitalis almost ready for dispatch.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

rom owning one nursery in 2018, Blue Diamond has, within the last two years, taken this number to six. A result of the UK’s place in Europe, increasing costs, and opportunity from acquisitions, it strengthens Blue Diamonds control of plant stock feeding its 55 garden centres (and counting!). And it mirrors the moves of other retailers in the industry, including British Garden Centres and Squires.

Overseeing production is Jim Teague who tells how Blue Diamond’s foray into nursery ownership began in 2019 with the purchase of Bridgemere Garden Centre in Cheshire. It is the largest footprint in the Blue Diamond estate, covering 110 acres, of which 56 acres is the nursery. “The nursery came as part of the deal. Blue Diamond never intended to be a grower, but we saw it as an opportunity,” says Jim. “Barnsfold Nusery was one of our suppliers and its purchase by Squires made us see the opportunities of owning our own nurseries, while becoming aware of the risk of not owning them. At the time we had 37 garden centres and even then realised there are very few nurseries in the country that could supply the volume we need,” he adds.

June/July 2026 7

Interview

Added value from sempervirens in terracotta pots.

Pansies at Offenham Nursery.

The result meant becoming more dependent on stock grown outside of the UK. “That coupled with covid, the fallout from Brexit and rising costs from transport, importation and plant health makes the whole idea of growing your own much more viable. If for no other reason than securing your own supply chain,” explains Jim. “An important point to make though, is that none of this is about exclusivity.

We still need other growers, which is the challenge and juggling act for our category managers. But as we increase in size, we are finding we are either taking everything from our other growers which doesn’t leave enough for their own customers, or they can’t supply enough.

Identifying what crops they never have enough of means we can get what we need and they can continue to feed into their own customers. It’s about trying to marry all of that together so it works for them and us.”

Nursery acquisitions In the summer of 2023, Blue Diamond struck a deal to take on the three remaining nurseries being sold by Glendale Horticulture. Offenham Nursery, Badsey Nursery, and Broome Nursery centred around the Vale of Evesham.

Then, in February 2024, came Worfield Nursery in Shropshire, once part of the Blakedown stable, and most recently, with the purchase of Barton Grange Garden Centre, Blue Diamond also took control of Garden Centre Plants (GCP) in Lancashire.

Along with Bridgemere, this brings the estate to six nurseries covering in excess of 100 acres of growing space and

8 June/July 2026

Seasonal wallflowers at Badsey.

producing more than 11 million plants.

“Broome, Badsey and Offenham are our seasonal nurseries because they grow a big percentage of our pack bedding, cyclamen herbs and veg. They only supply Blue Diamond garden centres,” explains Jim. Run by Andrew Bennett working closely with Sue Fever, they curate and develop the range based exactly on what the garden centres require. Other plant category managers also work together, and using Blue Diamond’s sophisticated sales metrics make predictions on future sales of plant size, price, colour range etc to ensure the right plant is on the bench at the perfect time.

It’s taken Jim and team a while to bring the Worfield Nursery back into action, but it’s now a positive story, with stock numbers and lines increasing. “Primarily, this nursery grows alpines for the group and we are building the range significantly beyond succulents and sedums,” explains Jim who adds they are also boosting value

The increased range of alpines is enhancing customer choice.

with bespoke ranges, terracotta pots and alpine arrangements in addition to six packs and one litre plants. “Having our own nursery allows us to do this,” says Jim. “I’ve always thought the nursery was one of the best growers of Sempervivum in the country so we're getting it back on the map, and the seasonal nurseries have huge potential to grow,” says Jim. Garden Centre Plants (GCP) is the only nursery that will grow for other customers.

“We want GCP to maintain its, very good and loyal external customers, and the intention is for it to supply Blue Diamond and grow its independent market through investment. Initially there were concerns from their independent customers that being taken over by Blue Diamond would have a detrimental effect and would mean they get the same plants a Blue Diamond centres, but this is not the case and we're already finding they are seeing benefits.”

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Interview

Bringing the shine back to Bridgemere

F

rom the late 1970’s onwards, Bridgemere Nurseries was one of several nurseries influencing the UK horticultural industry. Owned by the late John Ravenscroft, it was the place to be for anyone wanting to experience the latest in nursery stock production techniques. “It didn't matter what you learned, but you always learned something. You always came away from Bridgemere richer for having spoken to John or spending time on the nursery,” recalls Jim. By the time Blue Diamond came to Bridgemere, the nursery’s reputation for quality and range had sadly slipped. “When we walked into a nursery it was pretty full,” says Jim, “but it was pretty full of the wrong things. Not only was it over ranged, it was also overstocked. We had four times more stock than we needed."

After covid changed everyone’s plans, and Jim returned to Blue Diamond after a spell at Boningale Nurseries, it was time to turn the nursery around. With CEO Alan Roper, a three-year strategy was devised looking at how and what was grown for the group. “Alan could see the nursery

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

The team at Bridgemere Nursery are really proud of what they have achieved, can see the changes they have made and are excited about the future. “We want to make Bridgemere a nursery of note again,” says Jim.

Using an online portal, in addition to group allocations, Bridgemere uploads it's stock availability for garden centres to draw upon and plants are distributed using and external transport company.

June/July 2026 9

Interview

Bridgemere Nurseries is again filling up with quality plants for garden centre customers.

represented opportunity but was also conscious it was failing. I saw it as a great opportunity to help the team put the shine back on the nursery and put John’s legacy back in place,” says Jim. For 18 months, the nursery didn’t buy anything, existing plants were potted into larger containers, fed and pruned, and sadly some redundancies were made stripping the workforce to just 17 full timers with back-up from seasonal and agency teams.

Conversations later questioned the future of the nursery, but thankfully, just in time, things turned a corner. “It's a cliché, but it takes a long time to turn around a big tanker,” says Jim.

Chelsea gold In May 2024, Blue Diamond had success with a garden created with the National Trust on Main Avenue at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, and this was improved upon the following year with a gold medal for its exhibit in the Great Pavilion. This was a defining moment for Bridgemere Nursery.

10 June/July 2026

“Alan was slightly surprised when the designer said most of the plants for the exhibit had come from Bridgemere Nursery. He realised we could grow decent plants, but we were still only partway through the journey,” says Jim. This May, success was repeated again with another gold for it's Immersive Walk Through Garden exhibit dressed with around 80% of the plants grown on Blue Diamond nurseries.

Future strategy Now having implemented the first part of the new strategy for Bridgemere and with stock levels at a more acceptable level, after 18 months of no purchases the first plants arrived this January. A batch of picea are now growing away nicely for Christmas sales and this has had a hugely positive effect on the team.

With the retail Category Managers, Jim is working out future production schedules. For shrubs the priority is to promote existing stock potted into 10-litre

Adding value with large camellias grown on a frame.

and 15-litre pots for instant impact, allowing customers to buy a bigger, chunkier plant representing better value for money.

“It's doing the job in the garden for them immediately,” says Jim. Traditional shrubs and garden centre staples such as photinia, fatsia and cordylines will continue to be grown at Bridgemere in three and five-litre pots, and the perennial range is being honed to supply centres with stock ‘little and often’.

“We will focus and develop the range so it is exactly what the garden centres need,” he says.

Herbaceous will be split in two. A large, five-litre range for September sales, and a 'profit bomb' range for spring described as the right plant, at the right time, of the right quality and the right price.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

%$#+*"-$$ ,/.!$ )&'(

Ready for what’s next in the garden?

From summer containers and homegrown harvests to autumn planting and garden renewal, SylvaGrow helps gardeners keep growing all season long.

To view our full range of products, visit www.melcourt.co.uk 01666 502711

mail@melcourt.co.uk

®The Royal Horticultural Society. Trade marks of The Royal Horticultural Society (Registered Charity No 222879/SC038262) used under licence from RHS Enterprises Limited.

Promotion

New chapter for Durstons Durstons opens doors and expands operations with new site.

H

ot on the heels of an immensely busy season, Durston Garden Products is preparing for one of the most significant developments in its recent history, as the Somerset-based growing media manufacturer steps into a new phase of growth with a brand-new site in Meare near Glastonbury. The move will increase capacity, broaden the product offer and open the family business up to opportunities in new market sectors.

The new facility, known as Eclipse Works, spans 25 acres, including six acres of tarmac and 15 acres of operational space. Located around four miles from Durstons’ existing base, the site was purchased in 2024 and is now undergoing a major transformation ahead of production moving over later this summer.

New machinery, new capabilities Work has been underway behind the scenes for months, project managed by

12 June/July 2026

Eclipse Works is ready to be kitted out with state-of-the-art machinery.

Managing Director, Chris Durston. State-ofthe-art machinery from The Netherlands is currently being installed, further enhancing Durston’s production strength. Existing

bagging lines will be relocated to Eclipse Works from Durstons’ current site, with space intentionally reserved for additional expansion, as demand continues to grow.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Promotion

The significant investment marks a step change in the company’s production capabilities and is set to unlock new potential for the heritage Somerset brand. As well as supporting higher volumes of traditional bagged compost, the new site will enable Durstons to introduce bulk bags, creating opportunities in new sectors, such as builders’ merchants and landscaping suppliers.

“The new site gives us room to grow and the ability to diversify,” explains Sales Director, Dan Durston. “It will open new doors for the business and help us serve a broader customer base, while continuing to support garden centres efficiently and with the high level of service they have come to expect from us.”

Investments allows Durstons to explore new markets for its UK produced growing media.

A carefully phased move with no disruption to retailers With Durstons reporting an extremely busy season so far, sending out thousands of bags of growing media daily to meet demand, the company has timed the transition to Meare carefully. Production at the current site shuts down this summer, once peak demand has eased, with operations moving entirely across to Eclipse Works ready to gear up for next season.

The family business expects Eclipse Works to be fully operational by 1st September and reassures customers there will be no disruption to service during the transition.

All production staff will relocate as soon as the new facility is ready, whilst office staff will follow gradually over the next year or two.

“The relocation of our head office staff will be a more gradual process,” says Dan Durston, acknowledging the decades of accumulated archives and materials at the building Durstons has now occupied since the 1980s.

to supporting retailers through what is shaping up to be one of the most intense trading periods of the year.

“This is a long-term investment in the future of the business and demonstrates a commitment to our customers,” Dan Durston

concludes. “Eclipse Works gives us the space, the technology and the capability to keep growing and to keep supporting retailers in our sector for many years to come. We’re really excited about this next step and what the future holds.”

A new chapter for Durstons Once the move is complete, the old Durstons site will have a new life of its own, possibly under new ownership. For Durstons, however, the focus is firmly on the future. The Eclipse Works site represents increased capacity and strategic flexibility at a time when demand for reliable, UK produced growing media remains high.

Additionally, with transport costs, lead times and product availability a cause for concern for many retailers, Durstons’ recent decision to hold prices, without passing on a fuel surcharge this season, and maintain service levels, has offered garden centres reassurance their growing media supply is in safe hands. The company’s stock position, consistent lead times and refusal to introduce surcharges underline Durstons’ commitment

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Retailers interested in strengthening their peat-free off offer er and supporting gardeners through the transition can find out more about Durstons’ award-winning range and point-of-sale support at www.durstongardenproducts.co.uk or by calling 01458 442688.

June/July 2026 13

Faye Bridgwater is an award-winning British artist renowned for her bold, contemporary paintings that celebrate the beauty of nature. Her work, infused with movement, light, and colour, offers viewers a joyful and evocative connection to the natural world.

See the full range online.

E: sales@mgml.co.uk

museumsgalleries.co.uk

Tel: 01373 462165

JUNE/JULY 2026

gardentradenews.co.uk

25 Page SOLEX 2026 Preview Advice & information for garden centre professionals

SOLEX 2026 makes a garden for all seasons

SOLEX

2026

PREVIEW

ISSUE

SOLEX 2026 Preview JUNE/JULY 2026

gardentradenews.co.uk

25 Page SOLEX 2026 Preview Advice & information for garden centre professionals

SOLEX 2026 makes a garden for all seasons

Hot styles for summer at SOLEX

A

s we swelter in the second heatwave of the year reports are coming through that garden furniture and BBQ sales have been very high, with some centres even reporting gaps appearing in their showrooms as ranges sell out.

That all means SOLEX 2026 will be the perfect opportunity to see, touch, feel, sit, and experience a whole range of exciting, on-trend new products that customers will be looking to purchase for 2027.

You’ll be inspired by complete garden concepts

SOLEX 2026 - NEC Birmingham Tuesday 7 July – Thursday 9 July 2026 Show opening hours Tuesday 7 July: 9.00am – 5.30pm Wednesday 8 July: 9.00am – 5.30pm Thursday 9 July: 9.00am – 3.00pm SOLEX World Cup Awards Night Tuesday 7 July: 6.30pm – 11.30pm The Loving Outdoor Living Area Tuesday 7 July: 11.00am – 5.00pm Wednesday 8 July: 11.00am – 5.00pm Thursday 9 July: 11.00am – 2.00pm @solexexhibition @solexexhibition @solex-exhibition @solexexhibitionNEC www.solexexhibition.com

in settings that reflect how people really use their outdoor spaces, from weeknight suppers and relaxed weekend gatherings to impromptu parties and quiet moments of downtime.

The realities of the British climate will be tackled head-on throughout the show, with exhibitors presenting clever shelter and shade solutions, durable low-maintenance materials, outdoor heating and ideas for year-round comfort, helping outdoor kitchens, lounges and dining areas stay in action well beyond the peak summer months.

SOLEX 26 brings the very best of outdoor living together in one place, including furniture, fire, shade, kitchens, décor, heating and accessories, all showcased in a welcoming, friendly and inspiring atmosphere.

For retailers planning future ranges, designing store displays, curating online collections, or even looking for extra stock to bolster this year’s sales, SOLEX 26 is the outdoor living trade event not to be missed.

We look forward to seeing you all at the NEC.

In this SOLEX 2026 Preview 18

Exhibitor plan and listing

20

Welcome to SOLEX 2026

23

Afterparty, awards and events

24

People-powered design from Bramblecrest

26

Nine pages of SOLEX exhibitor news

34

Garden escape competition from Supremo

39

Making Napolean famous

Advertisers in this issue

Charity partners

16

Celtic Leisure

21

Zest

Perennial, Thrive and Greenfingers Charity

27

Norfolk Leisure

30

Hartman

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

40

Napolean

41

SOLEX 2026

SOLEX

2026

PREVIEW

ISSUE

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING Garden Trade News Potting Shed Press Ltd Dairy Drove Thorney Peterborough PE6 0TX Tel 01733 775700 www.gardentradenews.co.uk THE GTN TEAM Editor Trevor Pfeiffer trevor@pottingshedpress.co.uk Advertising Sales Alan Burdon Alan@pottingshedpress.co.uk Features Editor Anisa Gress anisa@pottingshedpress.co.uk Digital Editor Neil Pope neil@pottingshedpress.co.uk Subscriptions Karen Pfeiffer karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk Design & Production AT Graphics Ltd www.atgraphicsuk.com Lucy Carnell – Design Alun Jones – Production Manager Robert Tipping – Managing Director James Tipping – Technical Director Printing CG Print Ltd Do you qualify for a copy of GTN?

If you’d like to be added to the GTN distribution list, please send your details to Karen@pottingshedpress.co.uk to see if you qualify to be included.

Alternatively, if you prefer your Garden Trade News digitally, sign up for GTN Xtra, our weekly e-mail newsetter at www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Potting Shed Press Ltd Garden Trade News is published by Potting Shed Press Ltd who also publish: GTN Bestsellers, GTN Xtra, Pet Trade Xtra, Glee Daily News and the Glee Catalogue, and the Solex Sun. Potting Shed Press also supply Garden Radio to over 100 garden centres across the country.

Director Trevor Pfeiffer

SMALL PRINT: All material © Potting Shed Press Ltd 2024.

No part of this publication may e reproduced in any form whatsoever, either for sale or not, without the express permission of the publishers. The information supplied in this publication is published in good faith and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. Potting Shed Press Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused by reliance on information contained in this publication or in the vent of any bankruptcy or liquidation or cassation of the trade of any company, individual or firm mentioned, is hereby excluded.

June/July 2026 17

SOLEX 2026 Preview

Find your way around SOLEX 2026 120

130 205

200

210

105

FLOOR PLAN 2026 Organisers Office

310

300

Entrance

320

700 410

400

420

Direct 720

Organiser Office

425

Information Desk 500

510

520

Emergency Exit

LET US STEEL YOUR HEART

600

610

730

740

Seating

750

760

hall 5 18 June/July 2026

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

5

SOLEX 2026 Preview

SOLEX 2026 exhibitors

140

150

220

230

340

430

240

460

360

370

550

440

456

350

470

t 435

455

458

459

LOUNGE

710 450

445

540

530

560

570

580

Fyron Group / Grill Guru

620

630

640

630

770

780

4Seasons Outdoor UK Ltd 410 Ascalon 310 Atom Grills 456 Blackstone 550 Bramblecrest 600 & 750 Buschbeck 150 Cabinex/Beefeater 700 Calor 710 Celtic Leisure 320 CFM Traders 455 Charbroil and Pit Boss 520 Charles Taylor 630 Charlie Oven 459 Churnet Valley Garden Furniture 500 Daro 460 Dometic Mobile Cooking UK 130 Enders 350 Extreme Lounging 340 Firestorm Heaters 760 Fyron (Grill Guru) 580 Gallery Direct 420 Garden Furniture Global 300 Garden Impressions Outdoor 205 Hartman 200 Hex Living 210 Hill Interiors 435 Innovators International 510 Kadai 770 Kettler (GB) 640 Lafuma Outdoor Furniture 458 Leisuregrow 530 & 620 Minster Stylish Living 780 Miriad Quest Leisure 440 Napoleon Grills 570 Nordlux 450 Norfolk Leisure Lifestyle 610 Outback International UK 540 Pacific 400 Pagoda 140 Rago UK 720 RotoSpa 425 Royalcraft 120 Sahara 560 Signature Lifestyle 240 Supremo 220 Socal BBQ Shop 445 Telluria 730 Tom Chambers 360 & 370 Tripod Home 105 W Living by Woodlodge 230 Zest Outdoor Living 430

Fyron Group / Grill Guru

The Loving Outdoor Living Area | Hall 5 | NEC, Birmingham Tuesday and Wednesday | 11am – 5pm Thursday | 11am – 2pm

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

June/July 2026 19

SOLEX 2026

ryday y outdoor living For evv ery

Visit SOLEX 2026 to discover realworld garden spaces and find out how to make outdoor living work for your garden centre.

O

utdoor living is no longer just a mood board or a passing trend; it has become part of everyday life in British homes and gardens. Visitors now want spaces that cook, seat, shelter and store just as reliably as the rooms inside their homes. At SOLEX 26, the entire show is dedicated to practical, hardworking ideas that demonstrate what genuinely usable outdoor spaces look and feel like.

Across the halls you will find complete garden concepts rather than static product lines.

Compact balcony solutions, family-friendly patios, statement terraces and flexible, rental-friendly layouts all show that great outdoor living is possible in almost any footprint. Each setting is designed to answer a specific need: weeknight suppers, relaxed weekend gatherings, impromptu parties or quiet solo downtime.

Cooking, comfort and connection sit at the heart of many of the displays, with outdoor

20 June/July 2026

kitchens, BBQs, furniture, heating and lighting all presented as they would be used at home. You can see how preparation areas, storage, shade, seating and fire come together so everyone stays part of the conversation, not separated into different corners. From quick midweek grilling to slow, sociable feasts, the focus is on kit that earns its place by being easy to use, clean and look after.

This year SOLEX shines a spotlight on versatility. Modular units, movable islands, foldout surfaces and smart accessories show how one outdoor area can perform several roles in a single day. Morning coffee zone becomes afternoon play space, then an evening kitchen and bar with a few simple changes. It is all about helping visitors see how to make every square metre work harder, whatever the budget or garden size.

The realities of the British climate are tackled head on throughout the show. Exhibitors present clever shelter and shade solutions, durable low

SOLEX 26 7–9 July 2026 Hall 5, NEC, Birmingham Visitor registration is free.

Register online prior to the event at: www.solexexhibition.co.uk maintenance materials and ideas for yearround comfort—so outdoor kitchens, lounges and dining areas can stay in action well beyond the peak summer months. Rather than idealised showpieces, these are robust, real-life setups designed to stand up to wind, showers and everyday family use.

Over the three days, brands will be running live demos, product walkthroughs and informal talks on everything from fuels and finishes to layout planning and care. You can ask questions, compare different approaches and get straightforward advice on specifying the right mix of products for your customers. The atmosphere is relaxed, informative and focused on genuine know how, not just decoration.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

35 Years of Outdoor Living Innovation

Visit our Solex stand #510 Where Outdoor Luxury Begins...

Innovators International returns to Solex with a collection of stylish, comfortable, and durable garden furniture designed for modern outdoor living.

Using quality materials and thoughtful design, each piece offers lasting comfort, ergonomic support, and practical features made to stand up to everyday outdoor use.

What You'll Discover at Solex

Aluminium Collection

Rattan & Wicker Collection

Aluminium Wicker Collection

A contemporary collection of aluminium bistro, dining, lounge, and corner sets in natural and charcoal finishes, blending modern style with practical outdoor living.

A timeless range made for seamless indoor-outdoor living, featuring rocking bistro sets, swivel bistro sets, dining sets, and comfortable lounge seating.

A Collection that blends timeless elegance with a natural, romantic charm, bringing warmth and sophistication to any outdoor space.

office@innovators-international.co.uk

+44 (0) 208 736 2700

www.innovators-international.co.uk

SOLEX 2026 awards and events

Celebrating outdoor living excellence T Innovation shines at the SOLEX World Cup Awards party.

he prestigious SOLEX Awards will again take centre stage at this year’s SOLEX World Cup Awards Party, on 7 July 2026. The event brings together the very best in the outdoor leisure industry for an unforgettable evening celebrating creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation.

From eye-catching stand presentations to cutting-edge furniture and BBQ innovations, the awards honour those who are setting new benchmarks across the industry. “The SOLEX Awards are a true celebration of what makes our industry special — the creativity, the passion, and the innovation that keep outdoor living fresh, functional, and inspiring,” says Gina Hinde, SOLEX Event Director

2026 SOLEX Award Categories • Small Stand Award For a space that proves impact is not measured in scale, but in presence, detail, and emotional connection.

• Medium Stand Award For a stand that achieves balance — where design, flow, and brand storytelling come together effortlessly.

• Large Stand Award For a commanding environment that

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

captivates, immerses, and leaves a lasting impression.

• Sustainability Award For a product or design that places environmental responsibility at its core — thoughtful, conscious, and future-focused.

Sinha. The event is now sold out and those attending will enjoy welcome drinks, the prestigious awards ceremony and relaxed networking, followed by great food, music and even a live World Cup match screening.

This lively, feel-good event is the perfect way to connect with industry peers and celebrate the best of outdoor living.

• Individual Product Award For an exceptional product beyond the traditional categories — distinguished by originality, innovation, and impact.

• BBQ Award For redefining outdoor living — combining performance, innovation, and refined design.

• Furniture Award For exceptional furniture design that balances aesthetic appeal, innovation, and market desirability.

Side head The awards presentation will form a major highlight of the SOLEX World Cup Awards Party, an evening of entertainment, networking, and recognition at the UK’s most dynamic outdoor living trade event.

This exclusive evening, adjacent to the NEC, blends celebration, entertainment and industry recognition, hosted by Paul

Step outside the halls and into Loving Outdoor Living – the beating heart of SOLEX 26. This relaxed outdoor area is where BBQ and outdoor cooking brands fire up grills, smokers, pizza ovens and firepits to showcase real-life performance, flavour and theatre.

With tasters, chilled summer tunes and a laid-back garden-party vibe, it is the perfect place to unwind, network and gather ideas for your own in-store events and outdoor living displays.

SOLEX 26 Accommodation HotelMap is the SOLEX official hotel booking system, created with Helms Brisco, offering a quick way to compare live prices and availability of hotels within a 10-mile radius of the NEC Birmingham for 7–9 July 2026.

June/July 2026 23

Promotion

Tim Pennell.

Peoplepowered design With SOLEX upon us, premium furniture brand Bramblecrest is preparing to unveil a series of new collections and range extensions designed to drive retail growth for 2027.

A

s the industry looks to the future of summer outdoor living culminating in the highly anticipated SOLEX show, Bramblecrest, one of the most established businesses in the industry, is making consistent and progressive industryleading developments.

The Cotswolds-based brand, now transitioning to employee ownership, continues to invest in product innovation – including the rollout of its configurable bench design into additional ranges next season. We caught up with Tim Pennell, Head of Sales, about what’s driving the brand’s momentum, what retailers can expect next and about the company’s success being rooted in its people.

Tim and his team are supercharging the 2027 season with the introduction of RHS Hyde and Monaco, alongside new colourways and extensions added to best selling Zurich and San Marino ranges.

The RHS collaboration continues to evolve, with RHS Hyde bringing a timeless cast aluminium offering to the range.

Meanwhile, York – a premium cantilever parasol – joins the RHS by Bramblecrest collection, proudly endorsed by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Uncompromising standards “Our people are what set us apart,” says Tim. “Every innovation, design detail and product refinement starts with the expertise, creativity and care of the people behind Bramblecrest.

Their passion for creating beautiful outdoor furniture is reflected in everything we do.”

Combining thoughtful design, rigorous quality standards and sector-leading innovation underpins The Bramblecrest Way. “Each season our clients and products are met with the service, support and the investment needed to ensure production of the firm favourites customers know and love,” Tim says. “From entry-level ranges such as Tetbury, to evolving aluminium collections like Zurich, and timeless designs including Chedworth, the portfolio is designed to meet a wide range of consumer needs.”

Focused on delivering long term value for every trade partner’s needs, including exceptionally low return rates and dependable supply performance, this approach is delivering results. “Since 2024, we have grown three times faster than the outdoor furniture market,” says Tim, reflecting the strength of the brand, product quality and trust from consumers and retail partners. “We are so proud that we are seen as a brand trusted by consumers, valued by retailers and built for long-term growth.”

Every innovation, design detail and product refinement starts with the expertise, creativity and care of the people behind Bramblecrest.

24 June/July 2026

Looking beyond the seasonal ebbs and flows that challenge every business in the sector, Bramblecrest continues to invest in its people, including its commitment as a Mindful Employer. The national initiative is designed to help employers create a supportive environment for employees experiencing mental health issues, provides resources, training, and a charter that organisations can sign to demonstrate their commitment to mental health in the workplace. Tim says: “Our people are our greatest strength. As a Mindful Employer, we’re focused on providing the right support when it’s needed.”

2027 Expansion From RHS extensions, to continuing evolution around popular and timeless favourites, Bramblecrest is expanding. Next season is where years of work will finally be able to shine.

Tim explains that no team acts alone when bringing next generation products to market.

“Product development timelines can range from 15 months to several years. This crossfunctional effort brings our teams across design, sourcing, supply chain and marketing together, working to lead on every detail involved throughout the product lifecycle, to bring each range to market.”

With multiple new ranges launching at SOLEX and continued investment in product development, Bramblecrest is positioning itself strongly for the 2027 season.

Tim concludes: “The 2027 collection is shaped by in-depth market insight and a clear understanding of our evolving customer needs.

By combining trend-led design with highquality materials, we’ve created collections built around quality, comfort and style.”

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Promotion

Bramblecrest’s 2027 season standouts # Tarlton Building on the success of its innovative bench design, the Bramblecrest Bench, with industryfi rst configurable configurable bench and removable first backrests, this design feature will launch in the new woven Tarlton range.

Refreshed with the introduction of Anthracite and Truffle Truffle colourways, refl ecting the move towards warmer, earthy tones.

On-trend, these reflecting natural colourways create a harmonious connection between furniture and the garden environment.

! RHS by Bramblecrest York The York parasol combines refined refined design with exceptional performance. Featuring Spuncrylic canopies and commercialgrade struts, it has been windtested to withstand speeds of up to 60km/h, delivering both durability and contemporary elegance.

The 2027 collection is shaped by in-depth market insight and a clear understanding of our evolving customer needs. $ RHS Hyde

New for 2027, RHS Hyde is a cast aluminium range, available in a palette of heritage inspired colours.

" Monaco A new full range from sofa and dining options that combines tactile, rounded aluminium profi les, deep profiles, luxurious cushions and outdoor rope to create a classic design with a contemporary twist.

Visit Bramblecrest on Stand 600 & 750 at SOLEX (7th-9th July) for more information about its product collections and pricing. Alternatively, contact the sales team at sales@ bramblecrest.com

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

June/July 2026 25

® The Royal Horticultural Society. Trademarks of The Royal Horticultural Society (Registered Charity No 222879/SC038262) used under licence from RHS Enterprises Ltd.

$ San Marino

SOLEX 2026 exhibitor news

Elevating outside spaces Be the first to see the latest outdoor living trends and developments at SOLEX 2026. GTN brings you highlights from some of this year’s exhibitors.

Daro’s 2027 preview Daro is thrilled to debut a sneak peek of its 2027 collection at SOLEX, introducing innovative designs for both indoor and outdoor living. Key highlights feature brand-new outdoor furniture lineups alongside modular kitchen and bbq units, meticulously crafted for versatile, modern garden spaces. Additionally, a fresh line of highperformance indoor-outdoor fabrics brings a perfect blend of durability and sophistication to any environment.

Attendees can also explore Daro’s delivery options, including DHD express service from stocked items, designed to meet increasing consumer demand for rapid turnaround times without sacrificing custom options.

Meanwhile, the indoor furniture range remains a staple for year-round retail appeal, beautifully paired with a premium selection of UK-manufactured soft furnishings.

Stand: 460

4 Seasons Outdoor enhances outdoor living

Dometic has mobile cooking for every occasion Trusted by campers and bbq enthusiasts for generations, the CADAC Dometic name is widely regarded as the UK’s ultimate modular gas bbq brand. Since its formation in 1948 in Johannesburg, CADAC Dometic has been at the forefront of product quality and innovation, offering a wide range of barbecues for all occasions and locations; from terrace, garden and balcony to camping, off-roading and boating.

It has a wide range of barbecues; camping barbecues and stoves, that have won many awards over the years. All easy to build, use, clean and stow with a range of interchangeable tops and accessories to extend cooking options.

Stand: 130

26 June/July 2026

A leading name in premium garden furniture, 4 Seasons Outdoor UK is renowned for combining exceptional comfort, progressive design, and outstanding durability. With a passion for creating beautiful outdoor living spaces, 4 Seasons Outdoor offers a carefully curated collection that blends timeless style with high-quality materials. From elegant dining sets to luxurious lounge collections, every product is designed to enhance outdoor enjoyment for years to come.

Trusted by homeowners, retailers, and garden centres across the UK, 4 Seasons Outdoor continues to inspire customers with stylish, practical solutions that transform gardens, patios, and terraces into inviting spaces for relaxation and entertaining.

Stand: 410

All day cooking from Blackstone Blackstone has transformed the outdoor cooking category by championing the griddle as a versatile alternative to the traditional barbecue. Founded in 2008, the US brand built its reputation around flat-top cooking systems designed to bring the entire meal outdoors, from breakfast through to dinner.

Today, its range spans compact tabletop models, large-format gas griddles, electric cooking stations and a growing ecosystem of accessories. Designed and engineered in the USA, Blackstone products are recognised for their expansive cooking surfaces, even heat distribution and ease of use. Following its recent expansion into the UK market, the brand is helping retailers tap into growing consumer demand for flexible outdoor cooking solutions that deliver restaurant-style results in the garden, campsite or on the go.

Stand: 550

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

SOLEX 2026 exhibitor news

Quality and comfort from Hartman Classic Kadai comes to town For more than 20 years, Kadai has been creating handcrafted firebowls, barbecues, cooking accessories and outdoor living products inspired by traditional Indian craftsmanship and a passion for bringing people together outdoors. This year at SOLEX, it is showcasing a selection of its most popular fire pits and accessories, alongside the launch of the Classic Kadai.

Hand-beaten from one-piece of mild steel, the Classic Kadai combines contemporary styling with practical versatility. Complete with new high and low stands, it effortlessly transforms from an elegant barbecue into a striking fire pit.

Stand: 770

Hartman is showcasing its inspiring 2027 outdoor living collection, bringing together fresh designs, sophisticated new colour palettes and extensions to some of its best-selling ranges. Thoughtfully curated with a focus on comfort, innovative design and exceptional quality, the collection blends familiarity with innovation to create stylish, durable furniture tailored to today’s consumer and designed to elevate outdoor living spaces. To give retailers a distinctive point of difference, the trend-led collection is supported by strong margins and trusted trade service for both independent centres and larger groups alike.

With more than 55 years of garden furniture expertise, Hartman continues to deliver high-quality collections that combine comfort, durability and standout design, while also supporting retailers’ sustainability goals through its Return.Recycle. sustainability scheme.

Stand: 200

Visit us at Solex on Stand 610

Premium Outdoor Living Crafted by Leisure

01553 811717 www.norfolkleisurelifestyle.co.uk

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

June/July 2026 27

SOLEX 2026 exhibitor news

Bramblecrest builds on its heritage Bramblecrest has upheld its signature standards in every detail for more than 25 years. Combining innovation with strict quality control ensures products are manufactured using only the highest quality materials to create exceptional furniture designed to withstand the elements, season after season.

Each collection is carefully crafted with style, comfort and durability in mind. In 2027, Bramblecrest builds on this heritage with a refined palette of earthy tones, sleek lines and advanced, innovative materials.

Stand: 600 & 750

Elevating alfresco living the Royalcraft way

Cooking solutions from Enders for the everyday Enders has a rich background in metal manufacturing combined with developing gas burner technology which dates to 1883. With state-of-the-art engineering and award-winning design, it develops barbecues, patio heaters and camping products at its site in Werdohl, Germany. A team of internal and external experts test the quality, safety and practicality down to the last detail.

The Enders range is as varied as the barbecue itself - from mobile table barbecues and compact grills for urban barbecues, to fully equipped garden kitchens. Enders offers the right cooking solution for every use and every requirement plus it brings warmth and ambience to the terrace and balcony with ecologically optimised patio heaters.

Stand: 350

Returning to SOLEX 2026, Royalcraft is excited to showcase its latest outdoor living collections, bringing together contemporary design, comfort and innovation for the modern home. Discover new season launches across outdoor dining and lounging, alongside its expanding range of pergolas and outdoor kitchens designed to elevate alfresco living. From intelligent pergolas with integrated lighting and louvred roofs to premium outdoor kitchens created for hosting and social occasions, Royalcraft collections are designed to blur the line between indoors and outdoors.

Combining durable materials with trend-led styling, Royalcraft creates furniture and outdoor structures that make outdoor hosting look and feel effortless.

Stand: 120

Bring your garden to life with Telluria Discover garden buildings where style and functionality come together. Telluria’s steel garden buildings give your outdoor space a modern look and years of convenience. Thanks to its robust and durable construction system, you can enjoy garden buildings that are weatherresistant and low maintenance; sleek and modern in design; built with premium quality.

Whether you’re looking for a space for hobbies, garden equipment or relaxation, Telluria completes your garden.

Stand: 730

Socal BBQ Shop has competition winning flavours Socal BBQ Shop has a simple goal - to bring the very best, crafted with care and only using natural ingredients that are as clean as they are delicious. It is dedicated to promoting real bbq and is the UKs leading importer of American bbq rubs, sauces, brines and injections.

It supplies all the brands you know and love from the Famous Pitmasters, Serial Competition Winners and award-winning BBQ Joints. Including: Blues Hog, Meat Church, Lane’s, Hardcore Carnivore, Sucklebusters, Heath Riles, Kosmo’s Q, Slap Ya Mama, Killer Hogs, Meat Mitch, Whiskey Bent, Rufus Teague, Plowboys, 2 Gringos Chupacabra and many more! Mostly MSG, gluten free and vegan friendly. Products give you the freedom to do it your way. Whether your dinner table is at home, outside by the grill, or standing with a plate at a bbq event, Socal BBQ Shop wants you to love your food and the time you spend with friends and family.

Stand: 445

28 June/July 2026

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

SOLEX 2026 exhibitor news

Calor is the perfect summer fit As the UK’s leading LPG supplier, Calor fuels everyday life from heating off-grid homes to bbqs and pizza ovens and its trusted stockist network ensures reliable supply nationwide.

Patio gas bottles are a customer favourite for powering bbqs, pizza ovens, patio heaters, and outdoor entertaining, making it a perfect fit for the summer season and a strong sales driver for your business.

Looking to grow your business? Join a proven nationwide network and unlock: • New revenue streams with strong year-round – and seasonal demand • Exclusive stockist benefits and marketing support • The backing of a respected national brand with decades of experience Stand: 710

French style from LAFUMA LAFUMA presents its renowned range of relaxation and outdoor furniture, designed and manufactured in France. Visitors will discover the brand’s iconic zero gravity reclining chairs, deckchairs and outdoor seating collection, including the innovative Transaswing, which combines the comfort of a lounger with the gentle motion of a rocking chair.

Alongside its established collections, LAFUMA will present a preview of its 2027 Great Outdoor Collection, developed for camping, glamping and vanlife enthusiasts. Backed by a 5-year guarantee and designed with repairability in mind, LAFUMA continues to deliver durable, comfortable and practical solutions for outdoor living.

Stand: 458

Pagoda designs for every garden

Colours captured by Atom Grills Atom Grills will showcase its exciting 2027 collection at SOLEX 2026, featuring the launch of two new bbq ranges designed for today's outdoor cooking market. Developed specifically for UK garden centres and outdoor living retailers, the new ranges combine strong retail appeal, practical features and competitive price points.

Making its debut is the vibrant Elements range, available in Flame Orange, Ocean Blue and Storm Purple. Combining striking colour options with practical features including cast iron cooking grills, side burners and integrated bottle openers, Elements offers retailers a fresh approach to the bbq category with an RRP of £349.99.

Also launching is the Orion range, a premium collection of gas bbqs featuring sleek matt black styling, cast iron cooking surfaces, side burners and robust cabinet construction. Available in multiple sizes, Orion has been developed to deliver excellent value, reliable performance, and strong retail appeal.

Stand: 456

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Stylish, contemporary in-house designs and introducing Pagoda exciting, competitively priced essentials. Pagoda ranges emphasise modern designs with uncompromising quality, comfort and easy-care, for any garden. With its Hangzhou, China office, established 1997, all shipments are inspected by its team to AQL International sampling before every shipment. Munro Importers ships containers direct, door-to-door or on a FOB port service. It is also possible to offer own-brand products in mixed containers.

Whether you’re looking for affordable elegance or premium luxury, Pagoda caters to every budget while delivering on long lasting quality.

Stand: 140

June/July 2026 29

Designed for Outdoor Living...

Step Into Summer Style – Visit Hartman at SOLEX - Stand 200!

Hartman showcase its inspiring 2027 outdoor living collection at SOLEX. This inspiring new range has been thoughtfully and meticulously curated, with an unwavering focus on comfort, innovative design, and exceptional quality.

The 2027 collection showcases a stunning array of fresh designs, introduces sophisticated new colour palettes, and includes extended lines of some of our most popular and best-selling ranges—ensuring a perfect blend of familiarity and innovation.

Created to elevate outdoor living spaces, the Hartman 2027 collection offers retailers a distinctive and exciting point of difference. With trend-led styling, enhanced durability, and a refined aesthetic, the collection is tailored to meet the evolving tastes of today’s consumer.

Whether you’re an independent centre or part of a larger group, we’ve structured our offer to support your business with strong margins, and trusted trade service.

Visit us on Stand 200 at SOLEX – your exclusive opportunity to experience our 2027 collection of beautifully crafted garden furniture in person.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Visit Hartman - Stand 200

Why Hartman Continues to Lead the Cast Aluminium Market.

For decades, Hartman has set the benchmark in cast aluminium garden furniture, earning its reputation as the original and most trusted manufacturer in the category. As market leaders for many years, Hartman continues to combine timeless design, exceptional craftsmanship and enduring quality to create outdoor furniture that stands apart.

At the heart of the collection are three iconic, trademarked ranges – Amalfi, Capri and Avebury. Each range is a protected design, exclusive to Hartman, reflecting the company’s commitment to innovation, authenticity and design excellence. Crafted from premium cast aluminium, every piece delivers outstanding durability, weather resistance and low-maintenance performance, without compromising on style or comfort.

From elegant dining sets to beautifully coordinated outdoor living collections, Hartman’s cast aluminium furniture is designed to enhance outdoor spaces for years to come. For retailers seeking proven best-sellers and consumers seeking lasting quality, Hartman remains the definitive name in cast aluminium garden furniture.

Ranges featured below: Amalfi (left) Capri (Right)

SOLEX 2026 exhibitor news

Elevate outdoor living with Norfolk Leisure Step into the future of outdoor living with Norfolk Leisure backed by more than three decades of trusted craftsmanship and expertise. Perfectly tailored to meet the evolving demands of outdoor living, explore the extensive portfolio available including innovative features, trend-led colourways and premium materials.

Bringing together brands including LIFE Outdoor Living, Norfolk Collection, Royce, Keter and Ooni.

From beautifully crafted lounging sets and contemporary dining sets to versatile stylish shade options, premium pizza ovens and outdoor storage solutions. Every piece masterfully balances comfort and durability with modern aesthetics.

Stand: 610

Stand out style the HEX Living way HEX Living returns to SOLEX to show garden centre buyers and business owners what British-manufactured outdoor living should be: Lasting.

Limitless. Luxury. Discover a complete, design-led range spanning sheds and storage, furniture, pergolas, parasols, outdoor kitchens, dining and bar sets – built in Britain using premium materials and precision engineering.

New for this year, the range evolves with considered additions including an upgraded height-adjustable Tutbury table, an extra-large Tutbury corner sofa, a new parcel box, an outdoor kitchen with pizza oven, the Milford dining and bar sets, and Whiston two- and three-option bin storage.

Every product is made to stand out and built to last, helping you create a more distinctive retail offer.

Stand: 210

Firestorm Heaters are crowd pleasers If you are looking for a high-ticket item that practically sells itself, then Firestorm Heaters are the ultimate crowd-pleasers. Designed and built in the UK, these premium pellet-fed heaters feature an eye-catching 1.5m spiral flame that stops shoppers in their tracks. They offer your customers smoke-free, eco-friendly warmth at a fraction of the running cost of gas. For you, that means an incredible visual display for your showroom, impressive retail margins, and a reliable stream of repeat wood-pellet sales. Receive a FOC display model with your first order.

Stand: 760

Nordlux brings Scandi-style lighting Blending Scandinavian simplicity with exceptional durability, Nordlux exterior lighting brings understated elegance to outdoor living. Designed to enhance façades, pathways and garden spaces, the collection combines clean architectural lines with weather-resistant materials such as galvanised steel, brass and copper making them perfect solutional for coastal environments.

From contemporary wall lights, sculptural bollards, and stylish portables each piece balances form and function with effortless Nordic style. Thoughtfully crafted and beautifully minimal, Nordlux outdoor lighting offers a refined approach to exterior illumination that feels both modern and timeless.

Stand: 450

32 June/July 2026

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

SOLEX 2026 exhibitor news

Celtic Outdoor Leisure brings open-sky living Celtic Outdoor Leisure will be showcasing its market-leading pergola collection at SOLEX 2026, offering retailers premium outdoor living solutions backed by nationwide delivery and installation support.

Highlights include the Saturn Fully Aluminium Pergola, widely regarded as one of the best-in-class pergolas available in the UK, combining exceptional strength, durability, and contemporary design. Visitors will also see the new Starlight Manual Ultra Retractable Roof Pergola, providing maximum flexibility and open-sky living, alongside the new Cloud Metal Pergola, featuring advanced anti-rust technology for superior long-term performance.

Retailers can discover how dropship and installation programmes make it easy to offer high-value products while delivering a seamless customer experience and attractive profit opportunities.

Stand: 320

Seating and planting combos in the Charles Taylor range Charles Taylor is showcasing its award-winning outdoor furniture range again at SOLEX, manufactured in the UK with a proud sustainable pledge. Charles Taylor has quickly advanced to be the leading supplier in its product sector with an exciting and fashionable range of al fresco style outdoor seating options combined with the largest range of planting and grow your own products.

Sales advisors are looking forward to welcoming existing customers and new businesses to the stand to explore new products and tempting show offers.

Stand: 630

Style, value and new collections offered by Minster Stylish Living Minster Stylish Living Ltd is excited to showcase its latest spring/summer 2027 collections at SOLEX 2026, alongside a selection of bestselling and in-stock garden furniture ranges.

Visitors will discover an inspiring mix of contemporary outdoor living solutions, combining stylish design, quality craftsmanship, and exceptional value.

New collections feature on-trend colours, innovative materials, and versatile designs created to meet the evolving needs of today's consumers. In addition to the latest launches, buyers will have the opportunity to explore proven bestsellers and fast-moving stock lines that continue to perform strongly across the garden retail sector.

Stand: 780

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Tripod Home brings an ornamental selection Tripod Home will be showcasing a huge selection of cast stone statues, salvaged teak root benches, along with unique garden mushroom accessories.

Stand: 105

Garden Impressions – your complete outdoor partner Garden Impressions is a one stop supplier for everything outdoor with the most extensive range of garden furniture, parasols, and accessories. New additions for 2027 include more than 100 new furniture collections including the Margriet Vigo Dining set, pergolas, outdoor kitchens such as the stylish Milano Kitchen Unit and garden storage.

Stand: 205

June/July 2026 33

GTN Promotion

Win an exclusive London garden escape with Supremo

Supremo Leisure makes a standout appearance at SOLEX 2026, welcoming trade buyers to discover its 2027 outdoor living collection and be in with a chance to win an unforgettable garden themed getaway.

The Miiro Templeton Garden, where style meets the city.

A

longside its new collections for 2027, Supremo is bringing something extra special to the show—a major giveaway exclusively for SOLEX attendees. One lucky visitor will win a twonight stay at the Miiro Templeton Garden in London, recently named one of the Best Places to Stay in London 2026. Celebrated for its lush, immersive design, the Templeton Garden offers a unique connection to outdoor living, making it the ideal partner for this event.

The prize includes a two-night stay and The Hidden Garden Afternoon Tea for Two, complete with garden-themed cocktails from the hotel’s renowned Sprout Bar, an experience designed for those who appreciate style, serenity, and a touch of indulgence.

34 June/July 2026

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

GTN Promotion

Visit Supremo on Stand 220 at SOLEX to be in with a chance of winning: • Two-night luxury stay at the Templeton Gardens • Hidden Garden Afternoon Tea for Two • Garden-themed cocktails at the Sprout Bar • Exclusive to SOLEX trade attendees Plus, many more runner up prizes.

The prize draw will be presented by special guest, football legend Ian Taylor, at Stand 220 on Wednesday 8 July at 16:00

Adding to the excitement, football legend Ian Taylor will join Supremo on Stand 220 on Wednesday, 8th July at 16:00 to draw the winning entry and present the prize.

Best known for his influential years at Aston Villa, Ian remains a respected figure in English football—not only for his club achievements but also for his involvement in England’s international football pathway.

With SOLEX running alongside the Football World Cup, Ian’s appearance brings an added sense of sporting excitement, creating the perfect atmosphere for a celebratory prize draw.

Everyone attending the show is invited to enter the giveaway by visiting Stand 220 in person on Tuesday 7th and Wednesday

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

8th July. Visitors attending on Thursday 10th can still take part by submitting an entry, in advance, via Supremo’s website.

Every verified trade visitor is eligible, and all entries received before the deadline will be counted ahead of the live announcement.

Outdoor spaces transformed Known for elevating outdoor style, Supremo blends meticulous design with practical innovation to create collections that transform outdoor living spaces into elegant, lasting retreats.

Crafted from premium materials and built for durability, the 2027 collection offers retailers the chance to expand their portfolio with timeless pieces that promise longterm beauty and exceptional customer service.

Visit Stand 220 to our new 2027 collection, enter the giveaway and enjoy refreshments. Discover the best of SOLEX 2026 - from the future bestsellers to the change to win a London garden getaway.

01952 671100, www.supremouk.com or email: marketing@Supremouk.com or sales@supremouk.com

June/July 2026 35

SOLEX 2026 exhibitor news

Outdoor offerings elevated by Hill Interiors Following another successful season, Hill Interiors is excited to showcase at SOLEX 2026 an expanded outdoor living offering, including extensions to its best-selling ranges and the launch of two brand-new premium collections. Designed to combine style, comfort, durability, and exceptional value, furniture features HDPE wicker, hardwood feet, Olefin fabrics, and powder-coated aluminium frames. Inspired by both contemporary trends and timeless outdoor living, the collection helps create beautiful spaces for relaxing and entertaining.

Available wholesale from spring 2027 as individual SKUs, sets, or direct containers, with customised finish options available, the range is designed to help garden centres and retailers elevate their outdoor living offering.

Stand: 435

Relax with Extreme Lounging Step into the world of Extreme Lounging and explore brand-new innovations for 2027. The team has been working hard to develop new designs to help end users renovate, innovate, and expand their outdoor space, bringing outdoor living and indoor comfort together. At the show this year, you will find new colours and designs across collections, from b-cushions and b-beds to the best-selling b-hammock. The best way to explore the collection is to experience it. Sink into the b-beds, see the double-stitching on every product, and feel the fabric. Come take a look!

Stand: 340

Napoleon grills are a lifestyle

Gallery brings something new to SOLEX

Global market leaders Napoleon Premium BBQ is back at SOLEX this year and celebrating its 50th anniversary with a stunning collection of new bbqs and products packed full of practical features, quality design and innovative tech.

The new Prestige Pro 665 Elite will be on the stand ready to wow the crowds with its unmatched functionality and sleek sophistication.

Napoleon’s new Smokeless Fire Pits will also be showcased, with their efficient dual-wall airflow system, multi-fuel versatility and stainless-steel finish, they're ready to upgrade any outdoor space this summer. There will also be many more luxurious surprises to discover when you visit the Napoleon Premium BBQs stand this year. Some bbqs are just grills, Napoleon is a lifestyle.

Stand: 570

The exclusive first unveiling of three brand-new outdoor collections from Gallery, make their debut at the show. New ranges combine premium materials including solid teak, woven polyrattan panels and contemporary composite stone to create stylish, design-led outdoor living solutions. Each collection features a coordinated sofa, armchairs, coffee table and side table, offering a fresh opportunity to tap into growing demand for elevated outdoor living. As photography is still taking place ahead of launch, SOLEX visitors will enjoy an exclusive preview of these collections, making the show the first opportunity to experience these exciting new additions to the Gallery Direct outdoor range.

Stand: 420

36 June/July 2026

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

SOLEX 2026 exhibitor news

New Supremo ranges and chance to win Supremo continues to set the benchmark for outdoor living, offering trade buyers beautifully crafted furniture that elevates any collection. With a focus on detail, durability, and timeless style, its 2027 range showcases the quality and craftsmanship retailers have come to expect from Supremo.

This year at SOLEX, Supremo is adding an exciting opportunity for trade visitors: the chance to win a luxury two-night stay at the award-winning Miiro Templeton Garden in London, including The Hidden Garden Afternoon Tea for two. Celebrating SOLEX alongside the excitement of the Football World Cup, the prize will be drawn and presented by special guest, football legend Ian Taylor live at Supremo’s stand on Wednesday 8 July, 16:00. Attendees can enter the giveaway directly at Stand 220, while those attending on Thursday can register in advance via Supremo’s website.

Stand: 220

Ascalon: Inspiring and timeless garden furniture

Warmth, comfort and style from CFM Traders UK

Ascalon Design is delighted to return to SOLEX with its iconic collections of metal garden furniture, structures and outdoor living pieces, showcasing exciting new styles alongside enduringly popular favourites.

Highlights include new patterns and shapes in the best-selling mosaic ranges, with new table styles, benches, and a host of gorgeous accessories to delight your customers. It is also excited to be expanding many of its best-selling ranges, including new bistro sets and benches in the Blaisdon range, new dining sets accessories for the Hampton range, and a significant expansion to the relaxed Amalfi range. And don’t miss new ‘Display’ range, full of pieces designed to create stunning but practical point-of-sale moments in any garden centre.

Stand: 310

A premium range of outdoor living and lifestyle brands, including BonFeu, HEAT, MOODZ, Happy Cocooning, and Zoluna Lighting come to SOLEX from CFM Traders UK. Products are supplied directly from its UK warehouse for fast and reliable delivery.

CFM Traders UK is passionate about creating recognisable, thoughtful designs combined with exceptional product quality. Every product it develops, is designed to enhance the atmosphere and enjoyment of outdoor spaces, helping customers create warm, stylish, and inviting gardens. Outdoor cooking is also at the heart of the collection. Many products combine ambience with functionality, serving as both a striking garden feature and an outdoor cooking solution. With the range, customers can enjoy authentic outdoor cooking over a real fire experience.

This year, the portfolio has been further expanded with the addition of Happy Cocooning gas fire tables and Zoluna outdoor lighting, bringing even more warmth, comfort, and style to outdoor living spaces.

Stand: 455

Be part of the Grill Guru revolution The Dutch bbq revolution has landed in the UK! Grill Guru will be making its debut at SOLEX 2026 and bringing the whole family, from the Kamado Prime collection, Gas Grills, including a Plancha, and brand-new for the season, the Grill Guru Gas-Fired Pizza Oven. Not forgetting the accessories line up featuring, rotisserie, pizza stones, and the one-minute lighter, everything you need to enjoy a Grill Guru feast, any night of the week.

See the collection, meet the team, learn about our incredible 20-year warranty and then taste the results in the cooking zone, where Grill Guru chef Tom will be showing off his culinary skills.

Stand: 580

Comfort and versatility from Signature Lifestyle’s new collection The Northwood Collection, from Signature Lifestyle has been built to last, with a timeless style and thoughtful design. The collection brings together comfort, versatility and durability for the perfect outdoor experience. Featuring rust-free aluminium frames, premium double half round weave and weather resistant materials, the Northwood Collection offers a compact corner and large L-shaped corner configuration plus reclining armchair sets with swivel, bistro and dining, and cushion storage solutions.

Stand: 240

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

June/July 2026 37

SOLEX 2026 exhibitor news

Zest additions to modular outdoor entertaining collection Following the outstanding success of Zest’s outdoor entertaining collection during the 2025 season, the timber garden furniture and outdoor leisure specialist will unveil a host of additional ‘al fresco’ products and show promotions, exclusive to Zest’s on stand visitors.

The Zest stand will boast additions to the modular Terraza Outdoor Kitchen range, a brand-new, Verona outdoor kitchen offer in a pebble tone, a choice of stylish new dining sets to suit different tastes and budgets, an innovative pergola seat concept and a brown dining and seating range, made in the UK, in response to consumer demand.

Stand: 430

Commercially proven outdoor living from Woodlodge Home to premium lifestyle brand W Living, Woodlodge Products is inspiring retailers with beautifully designed collections for modern indoor and outdoor living. Visitors can enjoy an exclusive preview of the latest W Living garden furniture collection, showcasing contemporary, commercially proven designs backed by over 30 years of dependable supply.

Designed to help consumers create stylish spaces for relaxing and entertaining, the range combines comfort, quality and enduring appeal. Proud winner of both GIMA and GCA Supplier of the Year, Woodlodge delivers trend-led collections, trusted service and retail-ready solutions for every season.

Stand: 230

KETTLER returns bigger, bolder and better KETTLER is returning to SOLEX with new launches, fresh inspiration, and exclusive show-only opportunities not to be missed. As one of the key events in the outdoor living calendar, SOLEX provides the perfect stage for KETTLER to unveil the latest additions to the collection, including exciting new designs, innovative product developments, and fresh ideas set to shape the seasons ahead. Visitors have the opportunity to experience the collections up close, explore the latest trends in outdoor living, and discover what’s next for the KETTLER brand.

This year’s exhibition promises even more reasons to visit, with exclusive offers and special opportunities available only to show attendees during the show. Whether you are looking for inspiration, planning for future collections, or simply wanting to reconnect with the team, the KETTLER stand will be the place to be throughout the exhibition.

Stand: 640

38 June/July 2026

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Promotion

Making Napoleon famous Napoleon Premium BBQs marks 50 years of excellence with accelerated growth strategy and expanded UK team.

N

apoleon Premium BBQs is proudly celebrating its 50th anniversary marking five decades of innovation, design excellence, and passion for bringing people together through outdoor living.

As the proudly Canadian-heritage brand reaches this significant milestone, it is doubling down on its commitment to the UK market through an ambitious growth strategy focused on specialist retailer and garden centre footprint expansion, enhanced retailer support, and elevated brand visibility.

This strategy is being led by UK Country Manager, Jo McDonald who took on the role at the start of the year. She brings a wealth of sales and brand-building experience to the team and is on a mission to make Napoleon a household name.

“Napoleon is so well loved by those who know and have used the brand, but it’s still a hidden gem, says Jo. “Our products can truly elevate the home cooking experience and allow users to be their own food heroes!”

Growing retailer footprint In the past year, Napoleon Premium BBQs UK has made substantial strides in growing its stockist footprint across the UK, Ireland and Northern Ireland. This is supported by a growing retailer and consumer service, as well as a warehouse and spare parts team, which offers a quick and reliable service to partners and end consumers from the brand’s HQ in Coventry.

For the 2026 season Napoleon has started to develop a network of expert demo chefs and is proud to be working alongside BBQ personalities, Becky

Prideaux, Jon Scaife and Kirsty Redden. They will work closely with retail partners to bring the brand to life in-store, delivering live cooking demonstrations and showcasing the trademarked features of Napoleon’s BBQs.

Jo McDonald

Upgrades and new products Complementing this approach is a pipeline of continuously upgraded lines and new products to excite UK grillers. Recent launches include the Apollo Smoker range, to appeal to both entry-level and experienced BBQ enthusiasts with its versatile multi-tier cooking system. Alongside, Napoleon has expanded its popular and family-allrounder Freestyle and Rogue range models, as well as introducing advanced ‘Connected’ grills such as the Prestige 500 Connected 50th Anniversary Edition, which combines premium build quality with smart technology and infrared cooking performance.

As Napoleon Premium BBQs UK celebrates this landmark year, its focus remains firmly on innovation, partnership, and delivering exceptional outdoor cooking experiences to customers across the country.

To find out more visit www. napoleon.com/en/uk/barbecues Below: For the sixth year, Napoleon is the official sponsor of CarFest’s The Big BBQ Cookout, at Silverstone Circuit, hosted by BBQ legends Sam and Shauna where more than 20 celebrity chefs grill over the August bank holiday weekend. Aligning with one of the UK’s largest and family-friendly festivals helps people see the product in action and gives Napoleon huge amplification across social media. It also supports community-focused foodie festivals Feast On: Bristol and Cardiff.

The new stylish black matt OASIS 106 is the ultimate outdoor kitchen solution offering luxury, an affordable price and hassle-free planning

June/July 2026 39

TRADE EVENT

Summer’s in the air The only outdoor living exhibition organised by the industry for the industry 7 - 9 July 2026 NEC, Birmingham solexexhibition.com

Garden Furniture | Barbecues | Shading | Outdoor Living Accessories | Garden Decoration Garden Leisure Buildings | Outdoor Heating | Outdoor Health | Outdoor Entertainment

Charity Golf Day Charity

The Toolbank team of Paul Maxwell, Graham Cardus, Phil Hartson and Dan Cueto winners of the annual GIMA Charity Golf Day 2026.

Golferrs tee off forr GIMA’ A’s ch harity golf day A record-bre eaking 100 golfers enjo oyed a dayy of sport rting t g com mpetition in aid of the Greenfin ingerrs Charity. tyy

I

t’s not just abou ut playing golf. The annu ual GIMA Charity Go olff Day gets down to th he serious busineess off networking and d raissing mon ney for the Greenfinggers Charityy.

Despitte challenging weatheer conditions, the day at Belton Woods Golf,, Spa and Hotel in Granth ham m at the beginning of June, was a hugge su uccesss and the laargesst helld to date.

Teams played a Stablefo ord competitiion with h added jeopardy of thee Yellow Ball challen nge sponsored by Vitax..

More guests arrivved d for the evening ceelebrations and prize--giviing dinneer, demonsstratting the strengt gth t of support from across the garden industry forr both GIMA and the Greeenfingers Charity.

“Thiss yeaar’s Golf Day has exceeeded all expecctations,”” sayys Martin n Ward, Direcctor of GIMA. “To welcomee a record numberr of golfers is a fantassticc achievement and a clear demonstration n of the commitmentt, gen nerosity and camaarad derie that exissts withiin our indusstry.

“The weaather certainly gavee everyone an extra challenge, but the atmosphere througho outt the day was excep ptio onal. Events such h as these arre about far more th han competition on th he go olf course. They proviide an opportunity for bu usinesses to come

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

together, sttreengt gthen relationshipss, support an incredib bly important cause an nd enjoy the unique seense of community that makes the garden n sector so o special.””

This year’s top golfers When the final scoreccarrds were counted, it was Toolbank thaat em merged as winner of the main teaam com mpetition, narrrowly ed dging out Hyve/LBC(U ULTRALIGHT) Boots in second place, with AP PAC securing third po osition.

Elsewhere on theleaderboard d, Wood dlod dge 2 claiimed victtoryy in th he Yellow Balll competition, and d Monty’s Miracle weere dreessed to impress an nd took home the award for Best Dresseed Team.

The indivviduaal holle compeetitio on winneers: • Nearest th he Pin – Hole 4: Micchaail Michailo ou (MorePeople) • Nearest th he Pin – Hole 8: Jaco ob Lewis (LBC C(ULTRA ALIGHT) Bootts) • Nearest the Piin in Two – Hole 9: Si Holdsworth (Primeeur) • Nearest the Pin – Hole 15: Daniel McAlpin (Hyve) • Longgest Drivee – Hole 18: Daan Cueeto (Toollbank))

Theree was a rush on ‘Beeatt the Pro’ bragging rightss with Mark Bickerd dikke, Casey Warwick, Rob Fox, Chris Clark, Andyy Bestwick, Simon n Neate, Alan Burdon n, Dan Durrston n, James Bodle, Charliee Burgess, Jacob Lew wis,, Pete Barham and Tom Lay all receiving a four-ball prize for man nagging to land their baall closer to the pin th han the on n-course pro o.

GIMA is grateful to all sponsors and donors who made the event such a success. Sponsors included: Vitax, Evergreen Garden Care, Westland Horticulture, Durston Garden Products, Smart Garden Products, APAC, Keter, Charles Bentley, Meadow View Stone, Hex Living, Imprint, Toolbank, Husqvarna UK, Greenfingers Charity, Hornby George PR, CM Ventures, Handy Distribution, Primeur, Decco, GARDENA, Rectella, David Austin, Gtech, Kärcher, Hozelock, Glee and BRITA. Thanks also go to the businesses and individuals who generously donated raffle prizes and auction lots. Their support played a vital role in helping to maximise the event’s fundraising efforts and ensuringGreenfingers Charity.

June/July 2026 43

Charity Golf Golf Day

20V+20V

G A R D E N POWER GARDEN P OW E R

Award-winning ing cordless lawn n care, car arre e, recognised e eco e cog c co ogn gnise e by b one e of of the the UK’s UK’s UK K’ most mo ost respected ost re essp esp pec ec cte ct ted gardening ga g arden ar nin ing publications... pub p ubli a atttio ions....

Webb is pleased to announce that two of its cordless lawnmowers have been awarded Best Buy status by BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine:

Webb 40V 47cm Cordless Brushless Self-Propelled Lawnmower WEV20X2LM47SPB4X

MADE FOR

BRITISH GARDENS

BECOME A

STOCKIST – APPLY FOR AN TRADE ACCOUNT

Trade: www.handytrade.co.uk

44 June/July 2026

Webb 20V 30cm Cordless Cylinder Lawnmower WEV2012RB4

Recognised for their performance, usability and quality, these awards highlight Webb’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performing garden machinery for today’s gardeners.

www.webbgardenpower.co.uk

Email: sales@handys.co.uk Telephone: 01793 333220

www.g gardentradenew ws.co.uk

Charity Golf Day Charity

www.gardentrradenews.co.uk k

Jun ne//July 2026 45

Charity Golf Golf Day

The must-have additions for garden retail: elho grows wildlife range and introduces Dune Building on its award-winning launch, elho has expanded its popular wildlife collection with new bird feeders. The brand applies a design-led approach to a category often lacking inspiration and versatility, combining affordability with impactful merchandising, packaging and display solutions to help retailers drive sales per square metre.

The wildlife range has been developed with experts and recognised with multiple design and sustainability awards. The new feeder collection sits within three coordinated biodiversity families, encouraging mix-and-match purchasing while delivering improved durability over traditional options.

Also new is Dune, an indoor collection that responds to strong consumer demand for stylish yet simple pots at accessible price points. With warm, natural tones and tactile finishes, Dune delivers on-trend appeal alongside practical benefits such as its lightweight and robust finish. Crucially for retailers, it offers strong margins and strong sell-through potential, while its sustainability credentials – six times more sustainable than average ceramic pots – further strengthen shopper appeal.

Visitors to Glee will be able to explore the latest innovations firsthand and speak with elho representatives about stocking the range.

46 June/July 2026

www.g gardentradenew ws.co.uk

Charity Golf Day Charity

GIM MA Charity Golf Day 2026. Stab bleforrd Competiition Results Worldpayy: Evergreeen Garden Care: Maze: Su umecc/Prim meurr: Vitax One: Woodlodge One: Westland One. Keter:

61 points.

74 points.

77 points.

78 pointss.

80 po ointts.

80 po ointts.

80 po ointts.

81 pointss.

www.gardentrradenews.co.uk k

MorePeople: 81 po oints.

Smart Garden Two: 84 4 points.

Smart Garden One: 855 po oints.

Westland d Two: 85 poiints.

Hex Liviing: 85 poiintts.

Festivve:: 85 points.

RockeetG Gro/Love Logs/Treead dstone: 86 points.

Wo oodlod dge Two: 89 points.

Mon nty Miracle: Du ursstons/LV Bespoke// GTN: Zeestt: Impriint: Vitax Two: 3rd APAC: 2nd Hyve/Leo on Boots: 1st Toolbaank:

89 pointss.

90 pointss.

90 pointts.

90 0 poiints.

90 poiintts.

91 points 91 points 98 points

Jun ne//July 2026 47

Promotion

Outdoor brand collective with great retailers

Fandango Fire Tools doesn’t just supply individual products, it builds complete cross-seasonal categories for the UK’s finest fii garden centres. We source globally renowned, award-winning brands and deliver them straight to the UK’s ffiinest garden centres with robust margins, reliable stock levels, and ffiirst-class marketing support rt .

48 June/July 2026

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Promotion

A seamless cross-season journey

NORDIC EMBERS

®

O-Grill® portable gas barbecues O-GRILL® is a leading brand in portable gas barbecues, combining sleek design with powerful performance. Built for outdoor enthusiasts, O-GRILL® products are lightweight, durable, and easy to use. Perfect in the garden, on balconies, boating, camping, and on-the-go cooking, this range injects instant colour, high design, and premium impulse-buy appeal into your summer outdoor living departments. And look out for the new Ultra model launching this year.

One unified concept.

Multi-range growth Think you know Fandango Fire Tools?

Look closer. We have evolved to curate a premium portfolio of market-leading home and outdoor living brands designed to deliver strong margins, repeat sales, and effortless cross-season upselling.

The modern consumer wants a cohesive outdoor lifestyle. Our range brings it all together seamlessly: premium food cooked on a high-performance O-Grill® portable barbecue, while friends and family stay warm around a cleanburning Nordic Embers® fire pit, fuelled by wood split safely and easily with the Kindling Cracker™.

If you are looking for exclusive, market-leading brands supported by a UK distributor that genuinely prioritises your retail success, Fandango Fire Tools is the partner for you.

Nordic Embers® clean-burning fire pits

The Kindling Cracker™: The icon you know and love

Rooted in minimalist Scandinavian design, Nordic Embers® perfectly balances elegant aesthetic appeal with premium functionality.

These fire pits feature an advanced air circulation system that creates a hotter, highly efficient combustion with minimal smoke emissions. The result is a cleaner, mesmerising, and more enjoyable flame. Perfect for high-end gardens and patios, this striking Scandinavian look allows your customers to comfortably extend the British garden season well into autumn, protecting your outdoor category revenues as the temperature drops.

To fuel those fire pits and the millions of indoor log burners across the UK, your customers need kindling. That is where the faithful Kindling Cracker™ comes in.

When her mum injured her finger chopping firewood with an axe, 13-year-old Ayla Hutchinson from New Zealand set out to find a safer way to make kindling. That idea became the patented Kindling Cracker™. Cast from recycled iron in an Australian foundry powered by renewable energy, it has since sold more than one million units worldwide.

Owners love how safe and easy it makes splitting firewood, and thousands are sold in the UK each year. Trusted by leading retailers including Burford Garden Co, Blue Diamond, Waitrose Garden, Socal BBQ, Lakeland, Longacres, and Polhill Garden Centre, the Kindling Cracker™ sits naturally alongside fire pits, barbecue setups, and pizza ovens.

While it thrives in summer lifestyle displays, it truly peaks through the colder months, making it a top-tier revenue driver for indoor heating prep and premium seasonal gifting. For retailers, it offers strong margins and year-round appeal, with particularly high demand during the peak autumn and winter seasons.

Why partner with us?

Proven bestselling products Award-winning, premium products that customers love and retailers can trust for long-term brand building.

Built for retailers Strong margins, a large selection of multiseason outdoor living products, and an online B2B portal for effortless ordering.

Fast UK distribution Stock is held and shipped directly from our centrally located warehouse in Warrington.

Holding all inventory locally allows us to offer short lead times, reliable deliveries, and seamless replenishment during peak seasons so you can order with absolute confidence.

www.b2b.fandangofiretools.co.uk Email: info@fandangofiretools.co.uk Phone: 0161 327 3984 www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Become a stockist Sign up today to get access to our full range of bestselling products.

June/July 2026 49

Viewpoint

Top three challenges to the future of UK Environmental Horticultture Boyd J Douglas-Davies, Chair of the Environmental Horticulture Group

A

meeting of environmental horticulture minds took place at RHS Wisley recently, and I was invited to represent the Environmental Horticulture Group and the retail sector, as it was in danger of being underrepresented.

The focus of the day… what are the three greatest challenges to the future of UK Environmental Horticulture? And what research can be undertaken to reduce/remove these challenges? Background to this is that the government has given a multi-millionpound package for research over the next two years. The full outcome of the meeting is yet to be shared but these were my top three….

1. Coping with the changing environment and more specifically the flood-to-drought situation we face every year with water.

2. Plant Health – How do we get the population to understand the risks of ‘popping a plant in the suitcase?

3. Creating a workforce both large and skilled enough to ensure we can develop, grow, plant and nurture plants across all aspects of environmental horticulture.

At the recent GLEE Roadshow two panel sessions, made up of people in the industry, talked of the wealth of careers in the sector.

At BBC Gardeners’ World Live, Neil Gow waxed lyrically about how bright the future is for anyone joining the sector. In both cases, preaching to the converted… possibly?

The solution – we need to work harder at influencing students, guardians and second career searchers. Easily said, harder to deliver BUT if we don’t start now we will run out of labour – none of us are getting any younger!

The Young People in Horticulture (YPHA) is a powerhouse of under-35s but they need more support from their employers. Allowing them to attend local school career fairs would both develop their communication skills and

50 June/July 2026

Careers in horticulture in focus at the GLEE Roadshow led by Guy Moreton of MorePeople.

confidence while engaging with potential employees. Don’t expect them to do this without pay – every penny counts for them.

Inspire the inquisitive Many of us used to welcome 14-year-old colleagues as weekend till operators, compost carriers and all-around great team members.

Regulations and minimum wage make this a rarity nowadays. The benefit, beyond their high energy levels, was the opportunity to introduce them to our wonderful world.

How many jumped in the car after work and enthused about their day? Most! Impact on parents seeing a twinkle in the eye and a smile on the lips…. Priceless!

So if we can’t employ them, what are you doing to open their eyes? Are you hosting business tours for 13 and 14-yearolds, making sure you treat them for what they are… inquisitive young people. Inspire them, and they will head home with a grin and enthusiasm that is sure to impress their family. And just possibly, that family will recognise there is a path (garden or otherwise) to a happy and long career. Equip and empower your YPHA member to lead the business tours, and the visiting group will

instantly relate to them.

As for points one and two, I have plenty of thoughts on those and rest assured I shared them with DEFRA and APHA at the meeting but they will have to wait until next time as I have a burning issue to share….

Many leading sector retailers were invited to this meeting. Not one found the time to attend! This is the first time that millions have been secured to specifically support Environmental Horticulture; historically, we have been a side issue to the larger food and farming sector. If we don’t speak, and speak loudly, now there will be no second opportunity.

So here is your second chance. Let me know what your top three challenges are to the future of UK Environmental Horticulture and I will collate and ensure the biggest issues are tabled. Say nothing… don’t complain about the outcome!

Find out more

To download the latest EHG reports visit: hta.org.uk/mission greengrowth. Please let me know of any issues you want raised by the Environmental Horticulture Group.

Email: boyd@theboydpartnership.co.uk

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Adapt or Die

Reconnect your website John Stanley, Sid Raisch and Dries Jansen consider the importance of a good online presence.

T

hink of your website like your front door. If it’s hard to find, hard to open, or doesn’t look like anyone lives there, people walk away. And today, most customers knock on your digital front door before they ever pull into your car park.

Most garden centre websites were built for a customer who no longer exists. Today’s customer is a 34-year-old woman on her phone Saturday morning, wondering what to do with a shady corner. You have about eight seconds to convince her you have the answer.

1. Capture permission for text/ SMS and email Your social media followers are camping out on someone else’s platform. Your email and text list is land you own. Offer something worth trading for — a plant care guide, a planting calendar, or early access to a sale.

Brands like Anthropologie built entire loyalty engines by giving women a reason to hand over their email on day one. Do the same.

2. Make it mobile, or it’s still invisible More than 70% of retail web traffic comes from a smartphone. If your site loads slowly or buries your store hours three clicks deep — she’s already gone. Test your site on your own phone right now. If you have to pinch and zoom to read it, so does she, but she won’t.

3. Every page is a landing page — and every landing page should sell Every page on your website is a destination where emails, texts, and social posts bring readers to learn more. But learning more isn’t enough. You’re a store. Sell something.

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

If your text says “Snails driving you crazy?

We have the solution,” that link should land on a page about snail-resistant plants — with a photo, a short story about why it works, and a Buy Now for In-Store Pickup button.

One tap from reading to buying. The Sill and Bloomscape built their businesses on exactly this model. You have something they don’t — a local store where customers pick it up today.

4. AI Is now a salesperson — make sure you’re on its list Here’s the newest reality: AI tools like ChatGPT, Google’s AI search, and Perplexity are now actively recommending products to shoppers. When someone asks: “What’s the best deer-resistant plant for a shady garden?”

Your website content is now your audition.

Make it count.

— AI scans the web for answers and sends buyers to the businesses that look like the right solution.

If your website doesn’t clearly show you carry the product, describe what it solves, and make it available to purchase, you won’t be its preferred solution, and it will send that customer somewhere else. Your website content is now your audition. Make it count.

5. Speak her language Millennial and Gen Z shoppers don’t just buy plants — they buy a lifestyle. Forget ‘annuals starting at £4.99’ and instead inspire with

‘ready to make your porch the envy of the neighborhood?’ Then show her exactly what to buy to get there.

6. Show what’s possible — then make it shoppable Use before-and-after photos, simple project ideas, and garden vignettes. Then link every plant in that photo to its product page. Think the way IKEA sells a room — then makes every piece in it accessible right there.

7. Give a reason to come back Rotate seasonal content tied to what’s in stock right now. A website that never changes gets forgotten. A website that never sells anything is functionally irrelevant to a consumer remember, you are a store.

Your website is not a brochure. It’s a store open 24 hours a day — and now it’s also your application for AI recommendation. If your customers are arriving at dead ends on your website, fix them, and make it easy to click to send you money.

Most importantly, begin with connecting your email, text, and every other marketing effort to the customer with the invitation to learn, be inspired, and buy.

For more information contact John on email: john@johnstanley.com.au

June/July 2026 51

The place to create new business ... and meet old friends The UK’s Premier Show for the Horticulture Trade ... since 1971

Media partner

2 - 3 Sept 2026 nd

www. fouroaks-tradeshow .com

rd

Leandra

Amina

Fresh blooms from September

More luminosity in autumn with the NEXXT Classic Line

Lilith

Aurica

The Benefits of NEXXT what’sDiscover NEXXT! Dense bud set

Kaia

Tamira

Lilani

Radiant colours Exceptionally long durability Upright growth

Planteria

Healthy trading GTN finds out why Plant Healthy is a good idea for retailers.

G

arden centres at all five RHS Gardens (and the gardens themselves), have now been awarded Plant Healthy Certification. Retail plant outlets only make up a small percentage of the more than 110 horticultural businesses with the award, but their importance in the world of horticulture and the scheme cannot be underestimated.

“Retailers deal in such a wide range of species from multiple sources that they have a huge role to play in protecting plant health,” says Malcolm Catlin, Chief Executive of Plant Healthy.

Representing Plant Healthy at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Malcolm was promoting its benefits to the nation’s gardeners. He is particularly keen for garden centres to consider how the certification can benefit their business and the health of UK gardens and landscapes. “It’s an area we are so keen to promote and gain uptake,” he says.

At the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Malcolm promotes Plant Healthy and its new ambassador Adam Frost.

What and why Plant Healthy came from the Plant Health Alliance, created in 2018 and representing the full spectrum of the horticultural industry.

Its remit is to minimise instances of damaging pests and diseases, which are not only devastating but also costly. Research estimates ash dieback could eventually cost the UK just shy of £15bn, with more than half of that figure expecting to occur in the 10 years from 2019. Phytophthora ramorum and oak processionary moth alone cost the UK an estimated £6.1 million to manage annually, and although the UK has yet to have a confirmed case of Xyllela fastidiosa, it’s easy to appreciate the costs to retail and the gardening industry if it was found. Its wide host range encompasses around 650 species including garden favourites lavender, rosemary and olive.

With plant resilience challenged by unpredictable weather, and an RHS report finding that only 39% of the public are aware of the term ‘biosecurity’, the charity Plant Healthy is on a mission to help the horticultural industry do all it can to reduce threats and lead by example.

“First and foremost, we want everybody to be aware of the real need for biosecurity. There are serious threats to plant health, from plant

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

movement through trade and climate change,” says Malcolm. “The first step is for everybody to be aware of the problem. The second step is to get as many people as possible to act and adopt the good practice that will help prevent problems and where applicable, for people to demonstrate that through certification.

“It’s a rigorous and a demonstrable way of showing your customers you understand the issue and have practices in place,” Malcolm adds.

Full certification may not be appropriate for every business, and if so, there are other steps retailers can take. Malcolm suggests they start by preferring to use plant suppliers with certification, and perhaps in due course, requiring it. If a retailer has its own nursery, it could look at certifying this element.

“For some retailers, Plant Healthy certification might be the best route,” says Malcolm. “If you are a modest sized garden centre chain, and your team has good plant knowledge, it’s completely feasible. And you don’t need to get every site

audited; you can be included in the ‘group scheme’. An external auditor will make an annual visit to a sample of the sites which keeps costs and time manageable.”

Awareness, cost and time are obstacles to Plant Healthy certification, but Malcolm and his team are there to help and provide the guidance to get started. The scheme also offers 1-1 support and e-learning opportunities with documents and templates available.

“In time, we hope to develop some incentives and are currently working on insurance schemes so if there is a nasty problem, businesses with certification could get some financial support. But above all the benefits are protection for your own business. It’s peace of mind and knowing you are doing the right thing.

It’s also a way of promoting your business and giving your customers confidence by showing them you’ve gone the extra mile.”

To find out more visit: planthealthy.org.uk

June/July 2026 53

Viewpoint

Viewpoint

Why SOLEX still matters Gina Hinde, LOFA General Manager

I

n 2026, and 18 years after it began, SOLEX still matters. It has evolved from ‘a place to buy product’ into the backbone gathering of the UK outdoor living community. It delivers something the industry can’t get from emails, catalogues or video calls: concentrated time together in one hall, with the right people, looking at real product and having unfiltered conversations.

In a market shaped by shifting consumer behaviour, unpredictable seasons and tightening margins, relationships are still the most reliable riskmanagement tool we have. Retailers want to know who is behind the brand, how they respond when things go wrong, and whether they are in it for the long term. Those judgements are made far more accurately across a table than across a screen. SOLEX provides that neutral ground where buyers and suppliers can explore opportunities, challenge each other and build the trust that underpins serious commitments.

The personal touch Outdoor living is tactile. Comfort, quality, finish and innovation simply cannot be assessed from a line drawing or lifestyle shot. At SOLEX, buyers can sit in the furniture, check

54 June/July 2026

mechanisms, compare finishes and view complete ranges sidebyside. That hands-on experience leads to more confident buying, fewer surprises on delivery and, ultimately, happier customers.

Crucially, much of the real value at SOLEX happens between the diary appointments. It is the chance encounter in an aisle that unlocks

a new brand, the informal coffee that turns a good supplier into a strategic partner, or the conversation on a stand that sparks a new category or collaboration. Business happens naturally when people feel able to talk honestly about stock, pricing, and the reality on the shop floor, away from the time pressure of the day job.

For the trade, SOLEX has become a barometer as much as a buying show. It is where the sector takes the temperature of the year ahead: comparing footfall, gauging confidence, and spotting which trends in materials, colours and formats are genuinely gaining ground. It is also where key industry themes – from sustainability and responsible sourcing to logistics and labour – are debated informally but candidly, giving retailers and suppliers a clearer sense of the road ahead.

That is why, in 2026, SOLEX is more than a dates and venues listing in the diary. It is a piece of industry infrastructure. By bringing the market together to talk, test and trade in person, it helps the sector move in step, react faster and plan with greater confidence. In an increasingly digital world, that physical meeting point has never been more valuable.

Business happens naturally when people feel able to talk honestly about stock, pricing, and the reality on the shop floor, away from the time pressure of the day job.

SOLEX Exhibition 7-9 July. NEC, Birmingham www.solexexhibition.com

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Viewpoint

Getting ready for summer Will Armitage, HTA President Fledgeling bluetits remind us that the season is moving on.

W

ell, that was May, the calendar cornerstone of our industry.

Two bank holidays and quickly warming weather should collide to provide us with the perfect sales storm... but this is the United Kingdom!

Who in their right mind would model a business around the weather in this country?

It’s a good job we are all gardeners at heart, which makes us the eternal optimists. Just as the weather looks like it’s turning a corner, we get another cold snap or heavy rain.

This year, May provided us with very mixed weather, but it was probably the most typical May we have had for a few seasons. My retail clients have all reported good trade, but no records broken.

Between the storms, we have had some glorious weather, and nature really took hold, advancing the season and turning gardens into riots of colour and hives of activity. Our resident bluetit family all fledged successfully again this year, turning the garden into a cacophony of noise and fluttering fluff balls for a couple of days, reminding us that the season is moving on.

Keep the staycationers happy At the time of writing, we are now charging through June and I am reminded of the comments from the last two years that spring is stretching out well into this month.

We used to say that as soon as Wimbledon started, the customers stayed at home, but this certainly has not been the case for the last two or three years.

Retailers have previously seen strong sales

www.gardentradenews.co.uk

Fran Barnes, HTA Chief Executive, with Bruce Harnett of Kernock Park Plants which is supplying the winning antirrhinum, and Steve Chapman of the ICL Group, sponsor of the awards.

...so keep your benches filled and get prepared for the staycationers.... of summer colour, especially in larger sizes, well into July. If the media is to be believed, our consumers will be staying at home this summer, so keep your benches filled and get prepared for the staycationers, the football fanatics and the sunseekers who’ll be looking to fill their gardens with colour… maybe even a bit of red, white and blue for the England and Scotland World Cup supporters!

Plant delights On the subject of plants, this year’s HTA National Plant Show (17-18 June) was the biggest ever; both halls at NAEC Stoneleigh were almost at capacity. We had 157 companies exhibiting across 267 stands and 100 plants were entered in the prestigious New Plant Awards.

This year’s Best in Show, a perennial antirrhinum, illustrates what the awards are all about. Representing real innovation, it elevates this traditional cottage garden annual by offering gardeners a perennial alternative. For retailers too it brings new opportunities to sell Antirrhinum ‘Shiryu Kiss’ (Shiryu is Japanese for ‘purple dragon’) on herbaceous perennial benches. On top of this, it was bred by Peter Moore, making it an all-round great British story.

Finally, I hope you all manage to squeeze in a break over the summer. I wish you all a happy and relaxing time so you can come back refreshed and ready for the next rush.

Find out more

The Horticultural Trades Association is the UK industry’s leading membership organisation and welcomes all sectors of environmental horticulture.

To learn more, please visit www.hta.org.uk or to enquire about membership please email: membership@hta.org.uk

June/July 2026 55

TRADE EVENT

Who’s ready for summer nights?

Source: Hex Living

Explore the latest trends in outdoor living 8-10 July 2025 NEC, Birmingham solexexhibition.com Garden Furniture | Barbecues | Shading | Outdoor Living Accessories | Garden Decoration Garden Leisure Buildings | Outdoor Heating | Outdoor Health | Outdoor Entertainment