GTN September 2025 – Glee Preview Issue – Garden Trade News UK

GIVING ‘GROW YOUR OWN’ ENTHUSIASTSUNPRECEDENTED VERSATILITY, ENGINEERED WITH PRECISIONTOGROWAT 3 DEPTHS,CATERINGFOR LONG-ROOTCROPS.

Love it,beproud of it,doamazing things with it,because…

It's your little corner of theEarth…

Ourcampaigncelebratesthe nation's gardeners, andweencourage everyone to discov thejoy of gardening.

This year,YourLittleCornerof theEarth is captivatingconsumers at touch point, so we canhelpthemtogiveittheir best with Westla

In-store

Captivatingpoint-ofsale that engageswith gardenersthroughout theseasons.

Grow apollinator playground with it

with Unwins easy to sow wildflowerblends

NewUnwins’ blends arecurated to supportpollinators andlocal ecosystems with native andlong-established specieschosen fortheir flower shape, colour,and bloomingtimes.Withdeepand shallowflowers to support differentpollinatoranatomies,these blends nurturebiodiversity.

Ordering Easy stock replenishment throughWestland Live.

Education

Informative staffbriefings & educationtools

Theeasy waytosow it with Unwins Easy Wins seed collection

Pre-spaced seed tapesand triedand tested varietiesthatdeliver bigresults Easy Wins is thebeginner-friendly way togrowlikeapro

Create an oasisinyour home with it with Unwins inspired collection of houseplant seeds

Acurated rangeofeight indoor plantvarieties, developedspecificallytothriveinUKand Irishhomes

Feed it and nourish it with traditional plantfeeds trusted

forgenerations

Healthyplantsbegin with healthysoil, andour feeds delivernutrients in theright form at the righttime, from fine grademealfor excellent root contact, fast-actinggranules, andslowreleasepellets.Now enriched with seaweed* to boostnutrientefficiencyand supportthe soil microbiome.

Give it the righthomefor it to thrive with specialist blends forspecialistplants

Ourtailoredblendscare forthe nation’s favourite flowersand plants, speciallycrafted with essential nutrientsand additives to buildstrength andhelpspecialistplants thrive season after season.

COMPETITOR SEED

Thickenit andgreen it with ournew PureGreen ultimate lawn seed

Forthe densest, greenest,weed-free lawn,PureGreen is a hand-pickedblend of ourproprietary lawn seed,WestGreen, andmarket-leadingvarieties chosen to thrive in UK andROI gardens.Withanultra-fineblade,highdrought-tolerance, deeperrooting andenhancedgermination,PureGreen ensuresgardeners achievethe most perfectlawn.

PURE GREEN

Protectyour indoorjungle with it

with new natural pestcontrol andour unrivalled indoor range

Ournew Houseplant BugControl Spray protects againstpests andboostsfoliar nutrients, whileour Welshdresser display drives +52% year-on-year sales, proving we’rethe ultimate choice forhouseplant accessories.

Ourcompleterange is scientifically-backed, providingall gardenerswiththe protection they need Ournew Slug &Snail DefenceSpray starts to work immediately, giving twoweeks’protectionevenafter rainfall,for allplants. Ournew 800g Slug Killer featuresaneasytoapply dosing cap.

with theUK’sNo.1* weed killer brand

ResolvaisbackonTVfor its15th year in 2026,and ourlatestPath&Drive formulation iseffective againstevenstubbornperennial weedsinjustone hour

Toget aheadearly in theseason, theResolva Xtra CleanPatio PowerClean range removes greenalgae,mould,and blackspots from patios,gardenfurniture and more,preventingthemcomingbackfor up to 9months.

Whatever your little corner, it all starts with greatcompost

Grow it organically with thenew Organic Gold Compost&Mulch range

Thenew OrganicGoldrange embodies everything that is naturalabout gardening, theway it used tobe. Craftedwithyears of expertise, featuringa compostthat’senrichedwithCarbonGoldbiochar andafinegrade mulchthatnourishes thesoil. Delivering naturalnutrients,boostingroots and growinghealthier plants

Grow it and grow it and then eatit with aplanter that offers greaterdepth for deeper rooting

The1st planterthatadaptstogardeners’needs, delivering horticulturalexcellenceto‘grow your own’. Enriched with magnesium, 6weeks’feed, andadded plantgrowthpromoting bacteria forabundantfruit and veg.

Thespecially graded barksrange nowfeaturesenhancednew packaging, withclear communicationonchipsizeand coverage,aswellaseducation onthe importance of bark

Foraluxurious finish,our superior pine bark is screened,graded, and sustainablysourced,withupto50mmchipsizes that last twiceaslongas regularbark.

3 ways to grow

&

Bringextraordinary to your world

Make your storeextraordinary with theKent&Stowe Shop,designedtore-imaginehow tools &glovesare merchandised,deliveringatruly differentiated retail experience that brings ourheritageand craftsmanshiptolife.

Encourages shopperexploration andengagement

Demonstration station

Brings claritytotools

Refreshingly different

Premiummetal with extended connectors fora secure,leak-resistantfit

KIntroducing ent&Stowe Watering Newfor 2026

Kent &Stowe hasproventhatthe extraordinary is worthinvesting in Discerning consumersare no longer contentwithunattractiveand shortlived watering solutions. We’reredefiningthe category with arefined, tightlycurated range, craftedfor exceptionaldurabilityand quality, backedbyour 20-yearguarantee.Thisismorethanaproduct line;it’s a fresh, distinctiveoffer that meetsanunfulfilled consumer need andis purpose-builttodrive meaningful growth in thewateringcategory.

Controlunder pressure

It’s howyou unwind

Toughenedmetal with built-in protection forlasting resilience, paired with an ergonomichandle andintuitive thumb-flow controlfor effortless watering

Thehosereelpairs anti-kink 6-strand knittedhelix technology with alightweight,frost-resistant PVClayer (-30°C), setwithina durable aluminiumchassis and polished stainlesssteel drum for lastingperformance

Extraordinarygloves

TheKent& Stoweglove collection blends timeless craftsmanshipwithmoderninnovation, drivingtrade-up anddeliveringprovenresults.A classiccorerange boosts revenueand encourages impulsepurchase, while performance-led optionsoffer unmatchedprotectionand premiumappeal. Letuselevate your glovecategory.

GUARANTEED PROTECTION

Comfort & protection

Craftedfromhighquality, supersoftleather,with guaranteed protection andcompletedurability.

GUARANTEED PROTECTION

Versatile& durable

Breathable fabric,soft andsuppleleather with PVCpatches forenhanced protection andflexibility

GUARANTEED PROTECTION

Lightweight

& flexible

Superior flexibility meetsexceptional grip, with built- in abrasion resistance -the ultimate glovethatcan handle any gardening task

TRIPLE PACK

Covers all tasks

TheMulti-tasktriplepack features an Ultra-fine,Max Grip,and WaterResistant pair -a setofglovesthat caters to anygardening need

NEW

Newcountertop display

Compactand convenient formerchandising in-store anddriving attachment purchases.

Keep a look out for

Introducingnew Peckish Cantofeeders

. Designed to bridge thegap between thehome andgarden, theseven piece collection is inspired by interior design trends andfinishedinanelegant Pistachio green, offering both styleand function to wild bird feeding.

Ournew consumer campaign aims to drive year-round category participation, andwe’ll be creating captivating communication to engage consumersat everytouch point, from standout displays to high impact digitalstory-telling.

The PeckishComplete rangeisnow bigger and better than ever.

TheUK’sNo.1Seed Blendisburstingwithenergyand nutritiontohelpwildbirds thrive allyearround.And now, the Complete family hasgrown,withEnergyBalls,SuetCakes, andReady-to-UseFeeders, it’s easier than ever to colourin your garden anddiscoverthe joyoffeeding wild birds.

Supreme by Name. PremiumbyNature.

Introducing the Gardman Supreme Range, premium, expertly craftedbirdseedblends, exclusivelyfor garden centres. From everyday essentials to specialist mixes, Gardmannow offers acompleterange to tradeupshoppersinstore

A tailored blend hat’scrafted to he soft-billed obin’s dietary needs

t t r f s

A wheat-free blend that’s rich in protein andideal orinsect-loving pecies

A fine mixthat’s wheat-fee and perfect forsmallbeakedbirds like goldfinches and greenfinches

It’s peakGlee!

Phew! What ascorcherthissummer has beenand for most of thepast monthwe’ve beenworkingatpeak Glee, getting ready for what promisesto be averybusythree daysatthe NEC.

We’veseen ShowGuide entries from many new exhibitors and therehas been asteady flowof excitingnew product entriesintothe Glee New Product Showcase and Awardswhich we organise as part of our Official Glee Media Partnerrole.

As well as the 400 plus exhibitors at Glee therewill alsobea jam-packed line up of talks, interviewsand awardpresentations on the twostageareas;The Hive Stage and The Feed Your BusinessStage. It’s great to see so many industryleadersgiveoftheir timeto be involved, andthe GTNTeamwill be theretoo!

Between nowand the showopening we will also be counting the thousands of votesthat arebeing made by garden centrecustomers for their favouritegarden centrecatering teams. We will be announcing the winnersof GTN’sGreatest Food &Drink Team Awards on The Feed Your BusinessStageat5:00pm on Wednesday17th September.Asthis issue of GTNwent to pressMeadowcroft and Old Railway Line Food &DrinkTeams were in the lead in the on-line voting,find out who is the actual winneratGlee!

We arelookingforward to seeingyou all at Glee from the16thto18th September –remember to wear something floralfor Greenfingers Floral Thursday at Glee!

EDITORIAL& ADVERTISING

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Director Trevor Pfeiffer SMALLPRINT:All material©Potting Shed PressLtd 2025.Nopartofthispublication may be reproduced in anyformwhatsoever, either for sale or not, withoutthe expresspermissionofthe publishers. Theinformation supplied in this publication is published in good faithand everyefforthas been madetoensureits accuracy.Potting Shed PressLtd cannot accept responsibility forany error or misrepresentation.All liability for loss,disappointment, negligenceorother damage caused by relianceon information contained in this publicationorinthe event of anybankruptcy or liquidation or cassation of the trade of anycompany, individual or firm mentioned,ishereby excluded

Building on legacies

With the purchaseofBarton Grange Garden Centre now safely in thebag, Alan Roper talks exclusively to GTNfromBlueDiamond’s Frosts Garden CentreinWoburn Sandsreflecting on his success at building the brand.

For decades, BartonGrange Garden Centrehas been one of the most influential and respectedgarden centres in the country. Built on firm family foundations,with Eddie Topping opening his first plant shop in 1963,its high-quality retailing hasearnt the teams,the family andthe businessstringsofawardsand accolades

Butlikemany independent family-run centres therecomes apoint whenit’stime to sell and the Topping family havenow handed overthe reins to its preferred buyer, Blue Diamond Garden Centres. An opportunity likethis wastoo much to pass forAlan Roper, ManagingDirectorofBlue DiamondGarden Centres, but out of all

his acquisitions(numberingmorethan45), this one, he says,isthe biggestrisk. “When youbuy abrokenbusiness, theonly way is up.But Barton Grangeisanexception andalready making therightlevel of profit andthe senseofprideinthe businessis probably one of the strongest I’ve ever seen,” he says At £24million,withthe nurseryGarden Centre Plants,the price tagwas high.“I could do so much morewiththatmoney, andinterms of return on capital,would get afar higher percentage. Butwithits historyand thefactthatthe team are like Blackpool rock,with‘Barton Grange’ written right throughthem,I don't think howevermoney orientated youare,you'd

want to see that destroyed.”Asa resultthe statue of EddieTopping remainssittingat thefront of thegardencentretowelcome customers, andlikemany other centres the staff keep theiroriginal uniforms

Looking back with pride

When Alan Roper joined Blue Diamond GardenCentres in 1999 as Retail Director, its turnover was£60m. Most recent accounts put turnover at morethan £300m,withAlanplanningonannouncing breaking throughthe £400mbarrier at next year's Blue Diamond Awards, so perhaps nowisgoodtime to look in the rear view mirror andtakestock of what’s been abusy couple of decades.

Alan Roper at Frosts, Woburn Sands.

“ObviouslyI feel very proud. I’ve never stopped to thinkabout whatIwas doing— if Idid, Iprobablywould havelookeddown, got scared of heightsand justboltedfor the exit,”hesays. “I'm very proud of the people, howtheyhavedeveloped,gone on the journey, andhow invested they are in the business.But I’malsoproud of the businessbecauseithas values

“Whenyou takeonagarden centre, it has astrong connection with the community.It'snot seen as ahighstreet business, it’s aplacewhere yougoto see afriendly face, be welcomed and recognised. Centres which arenow partof Blue Diamond,likeCadbury’s and Sanders hadthat and Iwould argue youcan go intoCadbury or Beckwithand they still feel the same. VanHagehas Blue Diamond blueprints all over it —but it'sstillvery much runbyTeam VanHagewhich is proud of its history. Every day, when youwalk into VanHage’s, youare reminded of the history whetheryou areacustomer or staff.”

Building on legacies is something Blue Diamond can dobecauseitisnot acorporatebusiness.“If staff don’tfeel ownership,you don't get any passion and peopledon't really take responsibility. It’s about defining whoyour customer is and building astrongrelationshipwiththat customer through theproduct youselland the team that deliverit.”

It’s not about numbers

By 2008,Blue Diamond had just12centres andtoday,with recent acquisitions of

YarntoninOxfordshire, Busy Bees on theIsleofWight, andthe threeDobbies stores,thatnumberhas risen to more than 50.“Everybody always askme, ‘how manyare yougoing to do?’.What'syour number?’. It’s an impossible questionto answer becauseitall dependsonthe opportunities. If yousay youare going to buy everycentrethatcomes on the market andhooverthemupregardlesso whereitis, thesizeordemographic,you endupwithabusinessthatisimpossible to manage. Youtry to be all things to all men,and youfail

50. “Everybody ask me, ‘how and hoover them up regardless of end up with a business that is impossible sites that were losing

“My motivation wastobeproud of what I'veachievedatany point in the journey. When Istarted, we hadthree sitesthatwerelosing money, so my focus wastoget them into profit. Thefirst ten years were very slow becausewewere buildingcash. Thegolden rules forany businessare don't giveup, overextend yourself,orget into debt in adesireto grow your business. I'venever done that in my ownlife,and Iwouldn'tdoitin business.

“So today, even though we'requitea largebusiness, we have very lowlevels of debt, andthatisa healthypartofour DNA. Although in recent years it looks likesomethinghas exploded andchanged [becauseofthe number of acquisitions],in reality nothinghas changed. TheDNA of the businesshas been the same and as we've got bigger,wehaveabit morecash. It's the ratio of opportunities coming alongand havingthe cash that givethe step change.

“It’snot acorporate squeezeand about making as much profitout of thebusiness as we can at all costs. It's this attitudethat makes Blue Diamonddifferent.”

Commercial visibility

Alan doesn’t believeinamanagement systemoflayers, andwhenturnover

topped £50m he realised he needed a newapproach. “I decided theeight-pillar system wouldstabilisethe business— a bitlikeaRoman temple.Ifone of those pillars or businessdepartments failed and thecolumn collapsed, thewhole business wouldremainstable.”Itmatters to Alan that therightpeople or pillars areinplace andthe system he has nowcreated can be easily scaled up

He also bolstered thestrong team culture throughbenchmarking that’svisible to all centres so they can quicklycompare their weekly performanceagainst others He describes it as a‘healthy ratcheting of competition’.

“I givethemvisibility of the numbers and throughthisbenchmarking exercise, which is justcustomerconversion,theyhavethe tools to seeexactly howtheir products aredoing compared to theother centres.” This allows, forexample, theteam looking afterroses at CadburyGarden Centreto comparetheirperformance against Van Hage. If acentreisn’t doing as well,teams can requestpictures andinformationfrom centres that areperformingbetter so they

Left: Blue Diamondnow has 80 restaurants in its portfolio.

Right:Alan says the team at BartonGrange areone of the strongest he has ever seen.

Blue Diamond's team at Grosvenor Garden Centrein Chester

can takeresponsibilityand make decisions to drivegrowth. “It'sone team against another, but stillpartofBlueDiamond,” says Alan.

The benchmarkingsystemcan also,very quickly,highlight if something isn’tworking “You can see it and correctitwithin a week. Youcan’thavea system like Ihave or giveownership[of each department] unless youhavegood commercial visibility otherwisepeoplemakeall sorts of random decisions, go in differentdirections, and itwouldbechaos.Retail conversion is the glue that shapeseverybody's thinking.”

It's proved to be an extremely successful format for Blue Diamond. “I didn'tgrowup in businessbeing shapedbyotherpeople's ways of doing things.Itwas only very much laterinlife thatsomeone saidIwas an entrepreneur.Ireadupthe definition and I thought, yeah, that's probably what Iam.”

What the customerswant

Alan invests ahugeamountoftime and moneydeveloping theBlueDiamondteams but he also promotes thebrand through work with the National Trust, theRHS with the Blue Diamond gardens at theRHS Chelsea FlowerShows andthisyearwith a series of YouTubevideoshosted by David Domoney.

He admits that financialreturn willbe limited but the three-year deal,withDavid hosting aseries of ‘step-by-stephow to’ videos, will promotethe old-fashioned values of doinggardening well.Segments will alsobeused to send to customers.

With 1.5millionBlue Diamond Club members,the potential forpromotion is massive. In thepipeline is aplanto makestronger offersand createthe AzureLevel for loyal customers. There is also achangetothe background workings so more data can be extracted with theview

toget more efficient customerprofiling.

“I want to knowwho areour customers now. Whogoesinand spends themoston fashion, whocomes andbuys Christmas but nevercomes back?”

Hospitality

Blue Diamond nowrunsa staggering 80 restaurants andcafes with aturnover of £90m. Alanisconstantly tracking performanceagainst the garden centre industry butalsothe hospitality sector as awhole.Hesees volatility between sites in termsoffootfall andsales and, likeall the other departments, is keen to analysefigures to better understand what’sgoing on “Restaurants areone of ourbiggest challengesbut as we get bigger,weneed to keep ourfocus on thefoodand the customer.Myinstinctisthatcustomers areconsideringhow manytimes they're prepared to go outtoeat andwhatmoney they'respending.There's more sensitivity andnot as much moneyaround andpeople arethinking about what they arespending.”

The answer here is theunitedteam which hasastrongrelationshipand excellent frontofhouse service. “Whencustomers go in, they feelthe energy andthe positive vibe,”says Alan

What aride!

Having ahorticultural backgroundhas certainlyhelped andgiven Alan agood foundation. “I stilllookatthe business throughthe eyes of acustomer and anchor it withplantsand gardening.”His inspiration came from visiting centreslike Bridgemereback in the1908’s, set up by families which laidthe foundations for the gardencentreindustryweknowtoday.But, he sees things areset to change. “You have to be arealistbecause this demographic timebomb of people notwanting or able to take on theirfamilybusiness, is going to cause more changes in thefuture. The questionis, howdotheyfind asafe home fortheir businessand theirstaff?Ibelieve Blue Diamondisthathomebyvirtue of howwe'verestored thebrandsand the strength of theindividualcentres we have already taken on

“Ifthe industryseesthat Barton Grange carries on with the same reputation and the staff arethriving,then anyone considering the future of theircentre,wanting to protect theirbrand, theirlegacy, andtheir staff,can reach outtomeand havea conversation. Or Ican put themintouch with former owners that haveseentheir businessesrestoredand prosper,”saysAlan. Alan is thefirst to admithehas been in this game fora long time —45years if you counthis previous horticulturalexperience So,isretirement looming? “Itcame up recentlyatthe AGM, andthe chairman said thequestionwas asked thewrong way round. He said we should be asking what we can do to makesureAlan doesn't retire. “I stillenjoy it andthink there’smoretodo andmoreopportunitiesonthe horizon.” has still to a 12% and more opportunities on the

That said,a standout centreis Brambridge, wherethe restaurant massively overtrades,never hasenough covers, but hasstill managed to show a12% increase.

Historyisdeeply rooted at Van Hage's Garden Centre.

Above Left: Team Endlseigh in Plymouth.

Above Right: In Newport, MerePark Garden Centrewas acquired by Blue Diamond in 2021

Back on track

After achallenging spring, AMES UK hasmade significant changesto itsordering system,and nowwith 290 new products,islooking forward to meeting customer expectations again.

After asuccessful Glee lastyear, AMESwas meeting targets and keepingits customerssatisfied.

Ambitious plans to transitionmuch-loved brandsand companies such as Apta and Kelkay,toa 55-acresiteinPollington were completedontimeand within budget, and things were going well

Orders placed for deliverybefore Decemberwent smoothly but when it wastime to despatch newproducts ordered pre-season, aproblemwith the recently implemented ordering,picking and deliverysystem raisedits head.Many garden centres were impacted with deliveryissues and left wondering if their confidencehad beenmisplaced.

“Weare truly and sincerelysorry to our customers forletting themdown, not providing the servicethey'reused to,” says Paul North, Managing Director, AMES UK &ROI.

"And areverygrateful for the continued unwavering effort of the team to keep us moving forward to ensureweprovide the very best servicetoour customers."

“We’ve had anumber of challenges, challengesthat we ownand have ultimately corrected. We arenow in aposition to provide the very best serviceand arevery, very grateful forthe continued effort,energy and motivationofthe team as theystep forward and do one morething to help us on this journeyofproviding the best service, the best products and the best brands to our customers.”

Even though sights areset on 2026 andbeyond, Paul feels it’s hisplace to explainhow theeventsofthe past led to thetroublesome issues. "Wehad averyambitious transformationplan which wascentred to providingthe best brands,products andserviceto our customers. That planrequired us to exitsites andintegrateanew systemto within a2 year time frame. I’msoproud of theteam fordeliveringthisplan both on time andwithinbudget."

Gremlins at work

Paul admits that AMES wasnot able to deliverproduct consistentlynor accurately fora number of weeks

We neverhad astock issue andthe system didprecisely what we askeditto do,wesimply didn’tanticipatesomeof thechallengeswefaced earlier this year

Onekey challenge facedwas centred to productavailabilitydates forexample, orderswith newproducts notavailable at thetime of orderfulfilment would ultimately leadtothe entire orderbeing blockedand of course, disrupted service forcustomers

Afteracompleterewriteofthe system in lessthan 30 days, Ames is nowback on track and duringJuly andAugust,has delivered service levels of 99% on timeand in full.

‘Our infrastructureisproving we are able to deliver over and above the servicelevelsour customers require restoring confidence to customers andcolleagues alike."

Paul North is confident AMEScan return to high levels of customer satisfaction.

tail innovation for 2026 and

Retailinnovation for2026and beyond

RefreshingKelkay’svisuals

Every pieceofKelkaypoint of sale, including display boards,isbeing refreshed androlledout throughoutthe season for aggregates, paving and landscaping.The newlookfocuses on lifestyle imagery of the productinsitu. “It’sall about theproduct and howitwilllookin the customer’sgarden,”saysJames Hoad, AMES Marketing andProduct Director. Displaycomponents have also been simplifiedwiththe overall result being visually striking.Retailers whohavevisited theshowroom havedescribed thepoint of sale as ‘the best in class’ andwithimages scaled 1:1, consumers can see exactly what theyare buying,

When it comes to natural stone, AMES is expecting abig increase in salesnext year becausethe price of freight has come down. “We'vebeenableto pass on somesubstantial savingssowe expect the volumes to increase substantiallynextyear. Stepping stones will be half the original price," says James.

Scheurich

AMES launchedits exclusive partnershipwithScheurich lastyear with more than 300 SKUs.A further 60 are being added this year includingthe Monac pot, expected to become anumber one line. It’s simple, cylinderdesignwon’t detract from theplantbut instead add to itsvisual display andoffer awaterproof solutionsoconsumers canbeconfident waterwon’t mark theirfurniture. Available in four sizesand fivecolours.

“The focus this year is alsoonseasonal promotions like Christmas andMother's Dayplus specificpotsfor smallcacti and succulents,” says James.

more than 300 SKUs. A are including the Monaco water won’t their furniture. aid retailers AMES is also introducing and end of shelf displays as well as o

To aidretailers AMES is alsointroducing afreestandingdisplay to boosthot spots andend of shelfdisplaysaswell as offering asolution forgardencentres which don’t have alarge back wall forpot sales

Above:James expects the Monaco pot to be abig seller Right: Freestanding displayfor Scheurichpots

Artevasi

Building on the hugely successful partnership with Artevasi which began last year,2026seesthe introduction of new merchandising solutions forthe best-selling Madagascarrange, plus newproductsin honeyyellowand slategreyand afantastic selection of on-trend indoor pots, pushing the totalArtevasioffer to over 400SKUs.

Below: Known forits premium range, Apta is bringing in lineswithattractiveprice points to boost volume sales. In green, blue and merlot comes the newMayfield glazed cylindrical pot, the largest of which retails at an attractive £24.99

Comprehensive rangeoftools

With DavidDomoney as brandambassador, AMES Tools have been well promoted and therehas been good take up from retailers. Already comprehensive,new models of cutting and pruning tools have been added forthisyear.Two bowsaws, acutting anda pruning sawalong with telescopichandles lawn and edging shears have joined the line up

So toohas agifting rangewithgloves, kneelers andaccessoriesonafree-standing display unit, to boostsales.

Getintouch

Formoreinformation, to book atourofthe bagging siteorbecome astockist, phone 01405 869333,email: ukorders@ames.com or contact us via www.AMES-UK.com

TheEasyFountain Vortex is anew introduction this year combining planting and moving water. Mains powered, these glazed water features allow gardenstohavethe best of both worlds, by growing their favouriteplantswhich can be offset by avotex waterdisplay. “This is a concept we will be looking at more in thefuture,”saysJames.

Art inbonechina

The first delivery of art-inspired bonechina mugs is being eagerlyawaited at Museums &Galleries as it adds another newproduct to its gift andhomeware lineup.

This summer,the team at Museums &Galleries Ltdis excitedly awaiting deliveryof its first shipment of bone china mug a newproduct categorythe company previewedtovisitors at London’s Exclusively ShowinJune. The collection is availablefor pre-orders now, with deliveryinSeptember

The mugs joinM&G’s home and giftwarecollectionsincluding insulated bottlesand travel mugs,PLA mugs, aprons, ovengloves, teatowels, cushions and organic cotton napkins,and corkbacked placemats and coaster sets. In many cases theyare coordinatedacross featured designs.

Research and developmentofthe collection took the company over 18 months,chinawarebeing acompletely newmedium forthe company.However, overthe last fewyears M&G has successfully broken out of the paperbased greetings cards, stationeryand gift packaging arena,first withtextiles (totebags andpouches; kitchen textiles) and then with metallics(the insulated drinksware), so wasexperienced in the issues—not least of which is achieving aclose colourmatch across different substrates to ensureoptimum

coordination across ranges of different productstocreatethe most effectivein-store displays. The mugs hold 380ml,are dishwasher and microwavesafe, and arepresented in keepsake gift boxes(butalso havea ribbon tag for out of boxdisplay).

Drawingonexperience

M&G CreativeDirector Ben Dorney, explains the company drew on the expertise of many stakeholders and experts, including that of its many prestigious museum licensors. The V&Aand Tate Galleries especially have huge in-house experience creating,retailing and licensing bone china products, so both institutions were able to advise and haveinput intothe final design. “Wewanted the overall profile of the mug to be timelessand classic, butalso uniquelyours. We adapted and refined the mug’s profile, subtly elongating the length and contouringthe base. The loop of the handle wasalso reconfigured,”heexplains. The result is astylish, classic and very satisfying vessel for adelicious drinkingexperience

M&G selected William Morris’s iconic ‘StrawberryThief’fromthe V&Acollections as its primary choicefor the collection of fourV&A mugs. Another Morris design is the popular ‘Leicester Wallpaper’,with favourites by Walter Crane (‘Cockatoo and Pomegranate’)and William De Morgan(‘Frog

tile’) demonstrating the V&A’swealth of Arts &Crafts masterpieces.

Designs from the Tate include twobold modernpieces –a Henri Matisse paper cut out (‘Dancer’) and acontemporary work by AlvaroBarrington adetailfrom the artist’srecent installation at Tate Britain, ‘Grace’.Accompanyingthese are designs by Romantic movement geniuses JMW Turner and John Constable—the subjects of ajoint exhibition at Tate Britain in the autumn.

DesignersMatthewWilliamson,Mary Katrantzouand Emily Burningham supply beautifuland striking designs, as do popular M&G artists AngelaHarding, Catherine Rowe and Helen Ahpornsirifor Wild Press. VanGogh’sbeautiful ‘Almond Blossom’ is also included.

All aboutthe packaging

ForTom Williams, General Manager of Museums &Galleries Ltd, thepackaging wasanessentialcomponentofthe product, in order to elevatethe mug as a gift or self-purchase for either home or office. The boxesare beautifully printed in full colourtomatch their contents, with all the technical details printed on abelly band. The boxitself is sturdy enough to function as akeepsakegiftbox after the mug takes pride of placeinthe kitchen cupboard

www.museumsgalleries.co.uk

Tel: 01373462165 sales@mgml.co.uk

Award winning flexibility

Forspaces large andsmall, Zest’s modular outdoor kitchens,pergolasand dining sets offer heaps of choice, andnew designskeepthe company aheadofthe game.

Recognising the trend for outdoor kitchens, Zest hasestablished itself as aleader in this category. In recent years it has not onlydesigned and introduced the modular Terraza range of wooden outdoor kitchens, which proved to be an overnight success,but has continued to adapt modular range and design additions to makeoutdoor kitchens aviable choice for garden owners with limited space orbudgets.

Zest is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year,and in that time many of its designs and expertly createdpressure

treatedtimber productshavequickly scooped up awards fromSOLEX,Gleeand GIMA. This year is no different and at SOLEX in July,the company took home twomoreawardstoadd to the display case at itsHQinNorth Wales.

Best for furniture

Winning the Best NewFurnitureProductaward for its Terraza Outdoor Kitchen Island Set wasthe icing on the cakeaccording to Simon Davison, Head of Commercial Development.The island combines food preparation and storage spacewith abrushed stainlesssteel top- and high-levelseating. “If you’ve not got alarge

TerrazaOutdoor KitchenIslandSet for gardensbig or small.

SimonDavison,with theSOLEX rosette andaward forthe Terraza Outdoor KitchenIsland Set.

amount of spacetoplay with, it enables youto haveaneating and an entertaining island. Its creation all comes back to the work the design team has done to makesureweget it right.”

The Island Set nowbrings the choice of elements within the Terrazarangeto10. This includes the newCorner Setand Compact Set, alsolaunched at SOLEX, both of whichhavespace for an Egg-stylebarbeque. Elements can be mixed and matched depending on customer needs and space. “It’sabout having thatflexibility to choose the elements that work best foryou,” says Simon

Zest is proud to be acaringand responsible company that notonly looks afterits team, but since2010has selected chosen charities each year to support. With the latest fundraising events forthe MS Society Cymru and the North Clwyd AnimalRescue, it hopes to add to the totalamount and bring the figuretoastaggering £200,000

Zest’sexpertly chosen sustainable, slowgrown timber is all sourcedfromresponsibly managed PEFCcertifiedforests.

Working withone of its main suppliersinPoland, Zest is helping replant 10,000 acres of forest.

adding thatZest is already looking at whatto introducefor next year.“We need to stay ahead because kitchens areverymuch on trend at the moment, and we need to keep moving forwards.”

As well as newproducts, Zest has improved its existing Terraza Outdoor Kitchens with features including flexible shelving,brushed stainless steel tops and pre-hungdoors to simplify construction.

Zest’s productsare made using PEFCtimber, and it is nowappealing to awideraudiencewith new dipped products in asoft brownfinish.

Winning pergola

In further recognition of Zest’s continued focus on designing products to maximise on spaceintoday’s gardens, it wasalso presented with the BestNew Individual Product for its LudlowCornerPergola. Cleverlydesigned, as creatingstrength on acorner structurecan be achallenge, the pergola features awide front expanse and the option of back panels. “Wehad the initial idea, and the innovativeproduct development team put thedesign together.”

Zest has focused on making themost of outdoor living and entertaining as well as supplying awide range of timber garden products including GYO and planters.

In the last twodecades Zest has made the most of outdoor living and entertaining “We’ve gotthe whole kitchen set now;’ says Simon. “With ourenhanced range, customers can nowcookwith Zest, eat with Zest, relax with Zest and entertain with Zest.”

Formoredetails about Zest’s range contact: Simon Davison Head of Commercial Development sales@zestoutdoorliving.co.uk 01352873555 www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk/trade

Another award forZest at SOLEX wasfor theLudlow Corner Pergola.

TheZest 2025 charitylaunch.

TheLara3seater Bench in arichbrown finishlaunched at SOLEX.

TheTerrazaOutdoor KitchenCompact Set, was also launched at SOLEX.

Available in twosizes,Orion greenhouses have curvedeaves foroptimalgrowing heights.

WhyVitavia greenhousesare the smartchoice

Grow your business. Grow your reputation. Grow with Vitavia.

Asthe love for gardening continues to grow acrossthe UK,garden centres areevolving from simple plant shops intofull-scale destinations for both hobbyists and professionals. One of the most in-demand itemsfor gardeners today aregreenhousesand when it comes to quality,value and reliability,few brands match whatVitavia Greenhouseshavetooffer If you’re agarden centreowner or buyer looking to expandyour product range, here’s whystockingVitavia Greenhousesis not justa smartchoicebut afuture-proof one.

Trusted quality meets European engineering

Vitavia is arespected name acrossEurope, known for its robust manufacturing standards and reliableperformance. Its greenhouses aremade withprecision-engineered anodised aluminium framesand come in avarietyofglazing options, including toughened safety glassand polycarbonate

The brand combinesGerman design efficiencywith practicalfeatures thatUKgardeners love,ensuring customers invest in agreenhouse that will servethem for yearstocome

Arange that fits everygardener’s needs

From compact modelsfor beginners or smallurban gardens, to large, multi-purpose greenhouses for serious growers,Vitavia’srange covers it all:

•Apollo: Agreat low-threshold, entry-level model for newgardeners

• Orion: Unique curvedeaves for astylish look

• Venus &Neptune: Classic, versatile models thatare practical andperfectlyformed

• Saturn &Jupiter: Larger,heavy-duty greenhouses for committed hobbyists

• Ida: Lean-to greenhouse idealfor patios, wall gardens and smaller spaces

This diversity means your garden centre can appeal to awide customer base, from first-time gardeners to seasoned allotment veterans.

Excellent value for money

One of the most compellingreasons to stock Vitavia is that its greenhouses offerpremium quality at reasonable prices. In acompetitive market, its value that sells. Customers are increasingly savvy,doing their research before buyingand Vitavia consistently comes out as atop contender for affordabilitywithout sacrificing quality

Forgarden centres, this meansbetter conversionsand fewerreturns or complaints

Easy assembly &customer support

Vitavia greenhouses aredesigned with assembly in mind. Whether customers aretackling the build themselves or hiring someone to install it, theinstructions and customer supportensureasmooth experience

Foryour staff,this translates to fewer after-sale headaches and for your customers, agreenhouse that’sready to use withminimal hassle.

UK distribution& dealer support

Vitavia has astrong UK presence with dedicateddistribution networks and support for retailers. It works with garden centres to ensuretimely deliveries, promotional support and merchandising materials.

and helpsyou serve your customers better

Sustainability &long-term gardening trends

As morepeople look for sustainable ways to grow theirown food and reducetheir carbon footprint, greenhouses arebecoming increasinglypopular. Vitavia greenhouses makeiteasier for customers to garden all year,groworganically,and cut down on food miles.

This alignsperfectly withcurrentecoconsciousconsumer trends andputsyour garden centreatthe heartofamovement that’sonly goingto getbigger.

Drive repeat visits &add-on sales

Greenhouses aren’tjust aone-time purchase— they’re thestartofagardening journey. A

customer who buys aVitavia greenhouse is likelytoreturn for seeds andyoung plant, compost andsoil enhancers,pots, trays, shelvingwatering systems andgreenhouse accessories

By offering Vitavia, you’re opening the door torepeatcustom and increasedbasket sizesovertime.

In acompetitiveretail environment,stocking the rightbrandscan make all the difference Vitavia Greenhouses combine everything today’s UK gardeners arelooking for: reliability, style, choiceand affordability.

By addingthem to your product lineup, you’re not just selling greenhouses, you’re offering your customers abettergrowing experienceand givingyour garden centre a powerful tool for growth.

Getintouch with Vitavia today.Email: info@vitavia.co.uk

Stocking abrand thatunderstands the landscapemakes lifemuch easier

TheNeptune, with powder coated blackframe, forgardeners wanting alarger greenhouse.

The Apolloisavailable in fivesizes andcomeswith alow-threshold entrancefor easy access.

sp

a brand atundersta

UK re life much helps you

In four sizes, the Ida is perfect for those with limited space.

It’s time forGlee

Glee is just around the cornersoit’stimetoprepare for what promises to be ajam-packed threedays. New featuresand more than 430 exhibitorswill ensureyourvisit to the NEC will help your business maximise on sales for the rest of the year,and well into 2026.

Lastyear wasasignificant milestone for Gleeasitmarked serving theindustryas atrade show for 50 years.The eventhad acelebratoryair,with smiles allround and a positivemood.

Abusy spring and summer in 2025 has continued this positive vibe andwillnodoubt add atouch of vitality to this year’s showas buyers seek out products andservicestokeep theirown customers happy.

To makeshowcontent even richer,organiser Hyve Events has added anew sector reflecting the rise and importance of cafes and restaurants in garden centres. Food @Gleebringstogether quality food and beverage suppliers, plus catering equipmentlikecoffee machines and industrialovens to help garden centresmaximise on caféand restaurant opportunities

Along with Fire, Grill &Chill,the GreenHeart hub for allthings planty and the NewProduct Showcase, Glee has everything buyers need in oneplace.

thrive. I'm particularly excited about our 207 newexhibitors bringing fresh perspectives andinnovativesolutions to theindustry,”says MatthewMein, Glee EventDirector

It's notall about product, The Hive Stage is theplace whereexpertinsights from industry leaders sharegame-changing ideasand trends

In line with Food @Glee, thenew Feed Your BusinessStage offers practical strategies to help transform your food andbeverage offerings.

“Whether youare searching for thenext breakthrough product or strengthening relationships with trusted suppliers, you'll find everything youneed to help your business Glee 2025 Birmingham NEC Tuesday 16 September to Thursday 18 September

Stay ahead on the socials

Instagram: Glee_Birmingham

Facebook:Glee.Birmingham1

Linkedin:glee-birmingham-show

Twitter:@Glee_Birminghgam

To pre-register and find outmorevisit: www.gleebirmingham.com out more visit:

TTeam GTNatGlee 2025

The GTNteam will be busier thanever at Glee this year, andwelookforwardtoseeing as many of youaspossible.

he best placeto find us, or leave amessage for us, will be the NewProductShowcase,where we will be onceagain organising the judgingofover300 NewProductsfrom exhibitors whohavesubmitted them for the 2025 Glee NewProduct Awards

If we arenot at the NewProduct Showcase onTuesday we will be at The Hive Stage wherethe shortlisted NewProducts gettobe pitched to the judgesbeforethe Awards are then announced and presented at 5:00pm, please come along for the presentations, therewill be free refreshments!

On Wednesday,GTN’sEditor Trevor Pfeiffer,will be interviewing Dobbies CEO David Robinson on The HiveStage, about hisretailing experienceinsights and how garden centres areatthe forefront of

experiential retailing.Then, on Wednesday afternoon we will be celebrating all that’s great about gardencentrecatering with The Greatest GardenCentreFood &Drink Team Awards. That culminates in another awards presentation session at 5:00pmon the Feed Your Business Stage, with more free refreshments!

Finally,wewill all be donning ourFloral best, or worst, to makethe most of Floral ThursdayatGleeand help raisemorevital funds forThe Greenfingers Charity Oh,and on topofall that theteam will be producing daily editions of TheGlee Daily News.Makesureyou aresubscribed to get allthe news from theshow, straight to your mailbox.https://gleedailynews. newsweaver.com/Gleeedailynews Seeyou at Glee!

What’sonthis year at Glee

There’s moretoGleethanbuying with plenty of talks andevents acrossthe threedaystomaximise onretailingopportunities.This quickGTN guidegives youanoverview of what’s happening to help youplan your visit.

NewProduct Showcase

Eachyeararound300 products areentered intothe NewProductAwardscompetition across 15 categories. All featured products will be on display in the NewProduct Showcase (stand 12A50-B51)making it easyto find all new introductionsinone place.

The Greatest awards in catering areback

By popular demand, GTNhas reintroduced Greatest awards to recognisethe best garden centrefood and beverage offerings andthe teamsthatmakethe magic happen. Winnerswill bedecidedbygarden centre customer votes and tastings on The Feed Your BusinessStage, Wednesday 17th Septemberat5:00pm.

GreenHeart and Future Plants

In Hall 10,the Green Heartisthe horticultural hub of Glee, displaying the best of British-grown indoor andoutdoor plants.Stay ahead of the

game by visiting The FuturePlantsdisplaycurated by Michael Perry, which brings togethernew plants whichwon’tbeavailablefor retail for18-24 months. If youwant more information, Michael will also be on TheHiveStagetalking about hisfavourites for thefuture

On stage

Thisyear thereare twodynamic stageshosting presentations to help driveyour business. The HiveStage features industryleaders sharinggamechangingtrends and businesstips, while theFeed Your BusinessStage focuses on transforming food andbeverage offerings.The programme is packed, running from 9.30 on the firstday until 2.30pmon the thirdand final day.For afull list of speakers see the Glee DailyNews, The GleeShowGuide or the gleebirmingham website.

Glee First

Be at the forefront of retailing innovation and checkout Glee First, adedicated area forstartup companies to turn pre-commercialproduct ideas intomarket-readyproductlaunches. Stand 9A71-10F77

Fire,Grill &Chill

If yousee smokeoutside Hall 10 there’snoneed toworry—its grills, firepitsand barbequesin action. Forthe thirdyearrunning,the outdoor demonstrationareawill allowa selectionof outdoor entertaining exhibitors to show howtheir products work,while serving up delicious food.

Food @Glee

An exciting newareadedicatedtothe profitable opportunities andextended dwell timethata strong F&Boffering brings to your garden centre Whether exploringretail options likefoodhalls andfarm shops, or hospitalityventuresfromcosy caféstofoodtrucks andfine dining restaurants, theopportunitiesare endlessand Food @Gleeis theplacetobe.

Floral Thursday

If youare visitingonThursday 18th, then don’t forget your florals. Forthe fifth year runningwe

areencouragingeveryonetowearsomething flowery andhelp raisefunds forthe Greenfingers Charity.Buy aticket and be in with achance to win somethinginthe Greenfingers raffleand let’ssee if we canbreak arecordaget 150 people in floral attire in onephotograph.

Download theGlee App

The official Glee app is theperfectway to connect with theGleecommunity. It will help younavigate theshow, arrange meetings and discover and bookmark theexhibitors most suited to your business.Search‘Glee 2025’ in theApple Storeor Google Play

Across nine sectorsGlee hasretailing covered

Home,Gift &Clothing

Garden Care

Food @Glee

Outdoor Entertaining

Landscaping &GardenDecoration

PAW(Pet&Animal Wellbeing)

Plants

Retail Experience& Services

SourceGarden

Halls of opportunity

GTNbrings you an early look at some of the products and services launched and offered at Glee tohelp retailers drive sales and keep customers comingbackfor more

Primeur’ award-winning innovation andsustainablestyle Home to the multi-award-winningTierraVerde recycledgardenrange, these elegant self-watering planters combine timelessdesign with eco-friendly credentials, crafted from recycled rubber to last season afterseason. Discover EZBorders, the flexible, easy-to-installgardenedgingfor a flawless finish, EcoWayStepping Stones for practical,planet-friendlypathways,and EasyTile decking solutions– quick to lay, durable, and perfect forpatios, balconies, and terraces. Don’tmissthe enduringfavourite, Mighty Mats, designed to keep homes cleanand stylish allyear round. Primeuralsooffers market-leading merchandising solutions anda flexible, partnership-driven approach, ensuring every retailerbenefits fully from workingtogether Stand 11E61-F60

Seedball makes sowing easy Awardwinning and best-sellingHerb and Wildflower Tubes from Seedballeach contain20seed balls, to coverthree to five pots or asquare metreinagarden bed. The range includeswildflowers, (poppy, cornflower,forget-me-not, oxeye daisy and redcampion) plus garden herbs (basil, mint, rocket, chiveand parsley). Simply scatter ontobaresoil in agarden bedorpot and waterwell. Made from UK-grownseeds, clay,peat-free compost andchilli powder,the balls naturally protect the seeds from being eaten by seed predators. The seeds will germinate and sprout from inside the ballasit slowly breaks down. Full user instructions included on packaging.RRP £6.50. Delivered in ashelf-ready display boxasa mixed or single flowerorherb set. Stand 9J84

Foryou and your saltysea dog

It wasour proximity to thesea alongsideour dog’snosefor the saltiercoordinateswhich were thebeginningsofSalty Sea Dog. Long daysoutdoors, wetpaws, andthe kind of gear we couldn’t find elsewhere—sowemade it ourselves.Salty Sea Dogisabrand builton utility, notnovelty.We’ve created classic, go-to pieces that don’tbecome obsolete with theseasons.Witha fine regardto detail and akeeneye on tradition, ourtimelessproducts arenot dictated by trend. They’rebuilt to last, to be used,and to come backsaltier.Thisiskit fordogswho don’tstay clean forlong Stand 12F33

Wheregardens grow anddreams flourish Bloomcabin aluminum greenhouses combinetimeless architecturalelegancewithmoderninnovation. Made from high-strength aluminum profiles, they offer unmatcheddurability, style, andfunctionality.Perfect forgrowing vegetables, relaxing in nature, or creating an outdooroffice,Bloomcabin greenhousesare versatile, weather-resistant, andbuilt to lastall year round. DIY-friendly, they areeasytoassembleand come with detailed instructions. Withelegantdesign, quality craftsmanship, andfastdelivery, Bloomcabin helpsyou transform your gardenintoaspace of beauty andproductivity Stand 9C85

Solar Solvebrings Ziptrakblinds to theUK

WhitCo willget youfuture ready From kitchen to restaurantand beyond, that’s been theWhitCoCatering andBakerymessage for30years. This year seesa massiveleapforward withfournewexclusivebrands leadingupchanges in catering kitchens,bakeries, restaurant furniture and tableware.Theyall boast sustainability,durability andadd value to both thedesign andoperationof garden centre food serviceand hospitalityareas WhitCo will show howtoday’s innovationand technology can help businesses move forwardand adapt. At theheart of theGleedisplay is afully integrated ecosystem featuring Debag, Wilmax, Tilia and LightFry –alongside WhitCo’s bespokedesign service. Each brandisselectedtosolve risingcosts, limited skilled labour, compliance complexity and shifting customer expectations.

Stand 11D91-E900

SolarSolve,atrusted name in marine windowblinds,isproud to announcethe addition of Ziptrak® Outdoor Blindstoits portfolio.Asthe official representativefor the UK andglobal marinemarkets,Solar Solvewillnow supplytheseinnovativeblind systems to enhancecomfort,style, andfunctionality in UK homes andcommercial premises as well as onboard vessels and in marine-related environmentsworldwide. Ziptrak® Outdoor Blinds seamlessly connect indoor andoutdoor spaces, providingprotectionfromwind, rain,insects, glare, andharmful UV exposure. Built to withstand demandingUKweatherconditionsand theharsh marineenvironment, they allow precise controlofairflow,light,and temperature—making them perfect foroutdoor areas, vessel decks,and spaces whereweather protectionisparamount. Thedurable track-guidedsystemensures reliable, safe operationwithout chains, ropes,orpulleys Stand9H33-J32

Eye-catching advertising from CreativeProducts

It’s hardtoresistmedia-television, smart phones andtablets absorb andengage almost all of us. This is why CreativeProducts TV advertising works so well. With amanagement team boasting morethan 40 decades experience of television promotions,our instore screens and displaystands engage with customers, stopping them in theirtracks. Our product films arecarefully craftedtoquicklyestablishthe products keyselling points bringing theproducttolife. Our buyers visit allthe major world trade shows to ensurethe most currenttrending products arebrought to market aheadofthe competition. Each item is tested to ensure everythinginour core rangehas astrong,provensales record

Stand 9E41-G40

Controlling pests the Super Ninja way

Super Ninja, trading since2014, is nowone of Europe’sleading suppliers of sustainable pest control products. Its 100% toxin free product solutions use 100% recycled materials together with recyclable packaging. Solutions protect against fruit flies, mosquitos, wasps, silver fish, fungus gnats and clothes moths. Eye-catching in storedisplay unitsare perfect for garden centres, DIY and hardwarestores.

Stand K91-L90

DTGlights up withglobal brands

DalianTalent Group(DTG) established in 1997, is a world leading manufacturerand supplier of branded and private label candles, home fragrance, toiletries and personal careproductswith acommitment to sustainability,innovation, and qualitycraftsmanship DTG workswith someofthe largest globalbrands including Disney,French Connection, Hello Kitty,Little MissMrMen, PeterRabbit, CareBears and Emoji, to name afew,resultinginanenviable portfolio of brands to cater to retailers and partnersfromentry pricepoint to luxury channels.Its entire ethos andsuccess has been built on working to exemplarystandards, utilising its vastknowledge and resourcestoensureitbrings the best privatelabel and branded solutions foryourbusiness.DTG will help guide, expand and collaboratewith you.

Stand 9E22

Practical water-saving from SealStop

SealStopisa smart, time-saving solutiondesigned to eliminatewater waste. As hosepipe bans return amid ongoing drought concerns, this user-friendlydeviceoffers retailers a timelyopportunity to meet growing demandfor practical water-saving tools. SealStop clips onto anycontainer and automatically shuts off the waterflow once full, preventing overflow andallowing gardenerstomultitask confidently.With fully recyclable, shelfready packaging,strong POSsupport,and aminimum order of just12units, SealStop is an accessible, margin-friendly optionfor independentsand chains alike.

Stand K97

LV Bespokebringsgardendelight

LV Bespokeisexcited to returntoGlee thisyearinthe GIMA Village, showcasing garden decoration andplant supportproductsdesigned to help retailers grow and thrivein2025. Visitors canexplorearange of designs, developed with sustainability, quality, and customer demand in mind.Whether you’re agardencentre,gift shop,orretail buyer,LVBespoke is heretosupport your businesswith proven bestsellers and forwardthinking pointofsale solutions.Don’tmissyourchance to connect with the team,viewcollections, andtake advantage of exclusiveGleepromotions.

Stand 9H90

Quality Britishmade animal deterrents

British manufacturer

Concept Research believes in offeringquality andeffective products that deliverontheir promises, backed up by great customerserviceand continuity of supply. Formorethan 30 years, Concept Research hasbeen manufacturing in itsfactoryinHertfordshire, aquality rangeofanimal deterrents that deter ‘nuisance animals’without harm to any species. With arange that includesCatwatch, the only cat deterrenttestedand approved by theRSPB,Concept Research is proud of what it does and is happytotell youmoreatGlee.

Stand K101

Newlook for Miracle-Gro

Evergreen Garden CareisEurope’sleadinggarden caremanufacturer,hometotrusted consumer brandsincluding,Levington®, Roundup®, Weedol®,Clear™and Patio Magic®. For2026and debutingatGlee, it is elevatingMiracle-Gro® with arefreshed visual identity acrossthe entire range. Therelaunchwill be supportedbyabold, campaign to ignitenationalgardeningpride. Rootedinsimplicity,education,and proven performance, thecampaign reinforcesMiracle-Gro®’s commitmenttomaking gardening accessible, enjoyable, and rewardingfor everyone.Tofurther empowerconsumers, it is launching theMiracle-Gro® Performance Guarantee- promising bigger plants,moreblooms, andvisiblyhealthier foliage. To drive sustained categorygrowthfor retailers, itiscollaboratingwith industrypartnersto‘Grow Happiness, Enrich Your Space’toinspiremore peopletodiscoverthe joyofgardeningand transform theiroutdoorspaces.

Stand 11A51-11C50

Florally FUNtastic

For the fifth year running Glee has hosted Floral Thursday, encouraging visitors and exhibitors to join the floral community and wear something botanically fashionable. It’s the perfect day for taking a little bit of time out from the serious business of buying and networking and having a bit of fun.

Raffle tickets are sold throughout the morning and there’s a chance to win one of

pl we

With so many friends from the sector in one place it’s the perfect opportunity to get together and raise as much money as can for the Greenfingers Charity.

a great selection of prizes donated by exhibitors when the grand draw happens a 12.30 on The Hive stage (Thursday 18th). Other prizes will be given to the best dressed floral teams and individuals who have embraced the floral theme.

2. es indiv tw op sec £3000

This year Floral Thursday has two records to break. The first is to get 150 people in floral attire in one photograph and the second, to beat the fundraising target of £3000 raised last year

So now is the time to trawl the charity shops and hit the high street to find the perfect shirt or dress so you can join in with the Floral Thursday fun.

Garden green with Breinas Breinas is proud to introduceits latest range of Raised Garden Beds, crafted entirely from 100% recycled plastic (HDPE) –a sustainable and durable solution for modern gardeners. Designed with ease of installationinmind, these beds are UV-resistant, non-toxic, and built to last, making them ideal for residential gardens, greenhouses, or even schools and community spaces. With asleek modulardesignavailable in five sizesand an extension system, the raised beds offer flexibilityand functionality.Healthy plants and happygardeners–it’swhat Breinas beds aremade for

Stand: 9F75

Claberbrings irrigationexcellence

Since1969, Claberhas been aleading Italian companyinthe irrigation sector and chosen by millions of naturelovers in over 70 countries worldwide, from beginnerstoprofessionals,seekingexcellencein gardens andgreen spaces care. With arange of more than 500 products forabove-ground, underground anddripirrigation, Claber offers a comprehensivechoiceand withahistorymarked by iconic, innovative, andhighly functional products, continues to manufactureentirely in Italy, ensuringcompletecontrol of theproductionprocess andsafeguarding the excellence of itsMade in Italy reputation. Combining advancedtechnology with refineddesign andanauthenticnatural touch, Claber creates smart, reliable, anduser-friendlyirrigationsolutions, designed to enhanceplant care, simplifydaily life,and promoteresponsible and efficientwater use

Stand 12G28

Sussex SeedBalls hassomethingfor everyone

Sussex Seed Balls is excited to be exhibiting at Glee forthe firsttime. Afterasuccessfulsummerat flower shows across thecountry,includingRHS Hampton Court, it wasdelighted to be awarded theInnovation Award at RHSWentworth WoodhouseinJuly

With auniquerange of small-batch wildflower seed balls made specifically fordifferentsoiltypes, Sussex Seed Balls is looking at increasing its customerbaseofshops, florists andgardencentres.Gifts,includingseedballminigiftboxes, seed ball gift jars andseedballplanter kits,ensure thereis somethingfor everyone!

Stand 9F90

Autumn Savingsfor Retailers

Take advantageofreduced SSPs across awiderange of

BritishgardenequipmentmanufacturerHandyhasannouncedaraft ofpromotionaloffersacrossasubstantialrangeofgardenmachinery, ideallysuitedtoAutumntasks.Retailerscannowtakeadvantageof reducedSSPsacrossawiderangeofpopulargardentools-including hedgetrimmers,chainsaws,logsplitters,leafblowers,shredders, andmore.+parts&accessories!

Aslongsummerdaysbegintotaketheirtollongardens,Autumnbecomesa keyseasonforgardenmaintenance.Withhomeownersandprofessionalsalike preparingforthetougherwintermonthsahead,demandforreliable,effective gardeningmachineryrisessharply

StockingtherightAutumntoolsisessential-notonlytomeetseasonalcustomer needs,buttounlocktimelysalesopportunities.

WithAutumncomesoneoftheseason’sbiggestgardenchallenges-clearing fallenleaves.Gardenblowersandvacuumsareessentialtoolsfortacklingthis taskquicklyandefficiently.HandyisofferingspecialAutumndealsacrossawide rangeofmodels,includingGreenworkscordlessblowers,TheHandyand QGardenelectricunits,andpowerfulWebbpetrolmodels.Manyofthesealso includevacuumandshreddingfunctions,turningdebrisintocompostablemulch -idealforeco-consciousgardeners.

Tosecureyourpromotionalcopy,pleaseemailsales@handys.co.uk call01793333212orvisitwww.handys.co.uk

Countrywide BirdFoodhas its Glee debut

Countrywide BirdFood is exhibiting at Gleefor thefirst time andshowcasing itsexcitingrange of new, eyecatching wild bird seed mixes. The company has beenproducing carefullycrafted,premium wildbird, indoor, aviary,and pigeon seed mixes since1962and is renowned forits qualityand expertise. Itsimpressiverange includeseight engaging wild bird mixes inavariety of pack sizes, plus awide choice of straightseeds andtreats Fresh, contemporary,engaging pack designs with clear featuresand benefitsaid merchandising andprovide a point of difference. Only thefinest ingredientsare used -fullofflavour and nutrition, attractingawidevarietyof popular garden birds. Visitors cantakeadvantage of special offers, including introductorysavings andsix months of extended credit for newstockists.

Stand 12C22-D23

Klassaims for sector expansion

KlassisaUK, family-owned women’s fashion retailer and clothing manufacturerwith a heritage of over30years. Todayithas more than150 stores andconcessions trading withinUKgarden centres.Fromheadquarters in the north-west of England,the in-house design and tech team create clothes to help women look and feel greatwhatevertheyare doing.Ranges makethe latest seasonal trends accessible andaffordable,whilecapturing a lookand fit that is modern,stylish and works for today’s woman. Klassisactivelyseeking newopportunities for further expansionin the garden centresector

Stand 7E50-6A51

Stand 9K93

Alternative garden care from Andermatt Andermatt offers arange of alternatives to traditionalgarden care, suchasplastic-freefleeceand netting(BioFleeceand InsectoNet), which areplant-based andbiodegradable. Andermatt has been manufacturingnatural products forover35years, firstly in Switzerland, andnow acrossEurope.

Hozelock’s Solar Select automatic watering system makes garden careeveneasier.

Let thesun shine and the waterflow

Capturingthe growing interest in sustainable wateringsolutions is Hozelock’s newSolar Select automatic watering systemwhich will be akey focusatGlee.

With morethan 65 years horticultural experience coupled with continual innovation, Hozelockisconstantly helping as manypeople as possibleget themost out of gardening.This year it has made garden careeasier andmoresustainable thaneverwithSolar Select– anew and complete, eco-friendlyautomatic watering solution idealfor pots, flowerbeds, and hanging baskets.

Automatic wateringsystems have gained popularitybyoffering gardeners the convenienceofstaying hands-off while ensuring plants stay hydrated, even while you’re on holiday.The Solar Selecttakes this astepfurther by being entirelysolarpowered, using the sun’senergy to water up to 20 pots, making it both reliableand environmentally friendly.

Clever features

Suitablefor outdoor and indoor use, Solar Select features alarge solarpanelthat

powers three rechargeable batteries, eliminating the need forelectricity andmaking the most of renewable energy.Ahandy hookonthe back of the timer allows it to be placed on flat surfaces or hung on walls or flowerpots for added versatility

Designed to reduce household waterconsumption, the Hozelock SolarSelect works seamlessly with rainwater collectors likewater butts usinga weighted filter,tohelp conserve waterwhile benefiting from rainwater harvesting

With 13 preset watering programmes, users can easilycontrol the duration, frequency,and volume of wateringper dripper.Additional features include a‘Rain Delay’ function, which pauses watering for up to five daysbased on weather forecasts to conserve water, anda ‘Water Now’ function for on-demand wateringwheneverneeded.

To find outmoreand meet the team,visit Hozelock at GleeinHall 12 stand 12E53-11B52

Indoor plants toocan benefit from Solar Select. Its aperfect solution forkeeping plants hydrated when on holiday

Dripper irrigation nozzle canbeplaced close to the growing media to direct water exactlywhere it’s needed.

Solar Select’s timer can be hung from awall,and used to irrigate from awater butt.

Canadian charm from QuirkyBarn Re-discoverthe charm and craftsmanship of The Original Vancouver® Oak Collection(est2006) from QuirkyBarn -wheretimelessdesign meets everyday functionality.Crafted from solid oak with arich golden finish, each pieceshowcaseselegant,tapered legs andbold rustic brasshandles that addjust theright touch of character.Built to last,the range also has traditional dovetail joints for unmatched strengthand stability.Whether you’re dressing up adining room, refreshing your living space, or adding warmthtoa bedroom, these beautifully made pieces bring natural eleganceand practicality to anyinterior.Order The Original Vancouver® Collection with ease nowfor deliveryinjust 6-8 weeks!Choose between a20ftor cost-effective40ft HC container,with no minimum order quantities, giving youtotal freedom to curate your perfect range.

Stand 9J35-L34

Jenolite makes DIY simple Established in 1939,JenoliteisEurope’soriginalrust treatment brand,trusted by industry leaders likeBoeing, Airbus, andthe Ministry of Defence. Today, thatsame trusted performanceisavailable foryour home, garden, andDIY projects. From restoring benches and repaintingrailings to protecting toolsand vehicles,Jenoliteoffersawide rangeofsurface treatmentsand protective coatings— including rustremovers,converters,primers,paints, sealers, waxoils, and lacquers. Easy-to-use paints andsprayscomeinsatin, gloss, chalky, and metallic finishes, ideal forupdatingfurniture, ornaments,gates,and more.Suitable formetal,wood,stone, ceramic,and hardplastics, Jenoliteproducts arebuilttolast andmade to perform

Stand 9C80-D81

Everydayrituals, beautifullymade GreenTrafficLight®isaUK-basedbrand crafting natural, waterlessskincare, eco-friendly soy candles,bathsalts,and handmade aprons, designed to turn everyday rituals intomeaningful moments. But we’remorethanjusta product brand. We’rethe result of ajourney rooted in thefoodsector, whereprecision, quality,and careshaped everything we do.Thatsame attention nowdrivesour passion forsustainability,transparency,and conscious craftsmanship.Every piecewecreateismadeinthe UK anddesignedtobealuxurious, thoughtful giftfor thosewho appreciate the finer things andcareabout theplanet. Be the first to discoverour brand-newproduct line,launchingatthe show, experience our latestcreations, andexploregifts that nourish both people andthe planet.

Stand 9E92

See us at GLEE on Stand 9G93

Lodi UK pest premiere

Coming to ahome, garden or shednearyou! Join Lodi UK’s Pest PremiereatGlee2025. We’rerolling outthe redcarpet andlighting up the big screen(popcorn provided)withblockbusterpest control! From thecreators of Organ-X Slug Lentils,Storm Weed &MossKiller,and Racan Grab Bags, get readytopreviewour latestreleases.DiscoverLodi’sfullcast of leading and targeted products…Racan rodentcontrol with main-characterenergy; Organ-X, thedirector’s choicefor naturally effective, garden-friendly protection; Insecto Pro-formula insect controlwhich is fast-acting, scene-snatching and bug-busting; Storm is the final act fordirt, droppingsand weeds.Itoffers hardcore cleaning with Hollywoodresults.All productsare rated“P” forperformance, precisionand pest-free-trust us, pests won’tmakeittothe sequel.

Stand9D21

Magrini combines tradition and automation

Magrini is exhibiting for the firsttime at Glee with arange of commercial coffee machines andhot andcold milksolutions forgardencentre cafes.Visitorswill see traditional espressomachineswith automatic tamping and milk foaming and stand-alone automatic milk texturingmachinesthat arealreadyinuse in many garden centresites.Attendees at theMagrini stand can sample coffee made by theexpert baristasat 200 DegreesCoffee and challenge theteam to help solve their individual coffee issues. Magrini willalso showcafé operators howtoeliminatequeues, increase productivity, reduceexpensivemilk wasteand learn howautomation can be keytosolving currentindustry challenges.

Stand E110

Eco Fuegowax fire pitsensation

Say goodbye to annoying wood smokeand messyash withEcoFuego,the world’s first WaxFirePit,the neweffortlessand cleaner waytocreatemagicalmoments outdoors, as featured on ITV’sLove Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. Nowyou canrelax in your gardenwithout smoke, faff or the dread of theevening chill. Craftedfor ecoawarehomeowners,EcoFuego offers instant warmth andambiance without thehassleplus itsunique patenteddesign uses100%natural vegetablewax to createaperfect flame everytime. An EcoFuego WaxFirePit lights in seconds andwithnowoodsmoke and no mess,your neighbours willbeseriously impressed!Jointhe fire pit revelationsweepingthe countryand seewhateveryoneistalking about. Available in modern andtraditional styles.

Stand 12B31

MEADOW VIEW

THE S STONE ONE P PROFESSIONA ROFESSIONALLS S

TENReasons why Meadow View Stonewill

be the Smartest Choice

YouMake at Glee

When you’rewalkingthe halls at Glee, you’ll seeplentyof supplierspromisinggreat products. Butfew canmatch Meadow View’s proven combinationof innovation,quality, andpartnership that consistently delivers resultsfor retailersnationwide.

With over 150 yearsofexpertise in decorativeaggregates, we understandwhat drivescustomerchoiceand repeat sales. We’renot justheretosupplyproducts -we’re here to be your long-term growth partner. Here’swhy we should be topof your list when youvisit Glee.

1 Superior Product Quality

Firstinthe UK to introduce the washingofpremiumdecorative aggregates, we supply cleaner, more accurately sized products that outperformthe competition. Our ISO 9001:2015accreditation guarantees industry-leadingproductand servicestandards.

2 TheMost Innovative Range

From AR technology that lets customers visualise productsintheir owngardens, to six trademarked European blendsthat nowsit among the UK’s top20best-sellers,our rangeisdesigned to lead trends, not follow them.

3 Sustainability Values

As proudPlanetMark members, we actively measure andreduce our carbon footprintwithatarget of carbon neutralityby2030. Solar powerinstallations at ournewest facility arejust one of themanytangible steps already in place.

“Choose MeadowView andpartner with the UK’s most innovative, dependable decorative aggregate supplier. Let’sbuild astronger, more profitable future-together.”

Sarah Hill Managing Director

Supportwithmerchandising and point of sale.

4 ProvenSales Increases

RetailersswitchingtoMeadowView typically see sales rise by around 30%-a resultofour high-quality products, market-leadingrange, and inspiringmerchandisingdisplays thatconvert browsers into buyers.

5 Full Control of the Supply Chain

We arethe only UK decorative aggregates supplier importingover 50 shipments annually direct from our international partners,giving us completecontrol over supply, quality, andavailability. Ensuringontimein full deliveries.

6 Largest Infrastructure in theSector

With four washingplants, 16 robotic packing lines, four production sites, andfour dockside storagelocations, we have thecapacitytomeet demandreliably -evenduringpeak tradingperiods.

7 MerchandisingThat Lifts Basket Spend

From AR-enabled POS to full lifestyle garden displays,our merchandising inspires customerstochoose complementaryproducts -increasing averagebasket spendbyupto30%

8 ProvenProduct Performance

We constantlyreviewand refine our range. Flexi-FixEdging,introduced to replaceslowingconcreteedging sales, nowachievesa 95%re-order rate -proof of ourabilitytoidentify and fill marketgaps.

Flexi-Fix merchandised display unit

9 Knowledge and Expertise

Ourteamboasts over 150years of combinedcategoryexpertise, ensuring we deliver theextensiveinsight, experience,and support needed to help yousignificantly grow your sales andstayahead in themarket.

10 Partnershipfor Growth

We work side-by-side with our stockists, optimising ranges, improvingproduct positioning,and supporting promotionalactivityto ensure lasting growth in bothsales andfootfall.

AR on point of saleboards.

Get into beekeeping Honeybees areunder increasing pressureon multiple fronts and it’stime we gavethem the help they need. BuzzInto Beekeeping Limited,has agoal of increasing the number of beekeepers in the UK from 49,000 to 100,000 –with 80,000 beekeepers in the 1950’s, this targetis realistic. To help reach thetarget, the Buzz BoxBeekeeper’s Starter Pack has everything anew beekeeperwillneedand, as gardeners areamong the most likely to be interested in beekeeping, it been designed to sell in gardencentres. Perspex windows also makeitpossible to havea look intothe hiveand see the beesworking away on the honeycomb withoutopening the hiveup.

Stand 9D91

Stand outwith Meadow View Stone

Following ahighly successfullaunch of severalkey products at Glee2024, Meadow ViewStone returnsready to buildonthatmomentum. Flexi-Fixedginghas seen rapiduptake, with 95%ofgardencentres reordering within 60daysof launch.Eco Sparkle hasalsoprovenits appeal, achievinga 72%reorder rate in thesameperiod Meanwhile, customers adoptingthe MeadowViewStone’s market-leadingretaildisplayshaveseensales upliftsof up to 60%, underliningthe commercial impact of this solution. Explorethisseason’sexcitingnew product launches, alongside inspirational POSand gardendisplays designed to transformretail spaces. If you’re lookingto drive sales, improvecustomerengagement andstandout in acompetitivemarket, Meadow ViewStone hasthe tools to help yousucceed.

Stand11E51-F50

TilnarArt expandsAluminArt Collection

Tilnar Artisproud to lead theway in Fair Tradeand ecofriendly designswith the latestadditiontothe AluminArtCollection, thevibrant newRainbowHighlandCow Ornaments, launched at Autumn Fair and Glee. Theseboldand colourful pieces have been created duetothe popularityofthe AluminArtRainbowHighlandCow Wall Art, which hassoldout twicesinceits launch in May this year.All Tilnar Art’sproductsare fairly traded,and hand crafted with careto reflect ourcommitment to ethical sourcing andsustainability.Madefromrecycled, plasticfreealuminium, they notonlylook stunning but alsohelp reducewasteand protect ourplanet’sresources.Bychoosing Tilnar Art, you’re supporting fairworking conditions andamoresustainablefuture forgenerations to come

Stand G25

Lightupthe darkwithin-lite

Landscapeplus xin-liteisexcitedto be exhibiting for the first time at Glee in-litetransforms outdoor spaces with innovativelightingsolutions by inspiring and creating magical spaces after sunset.

Stand 12E63

Vitax expandsEasy Choice

Glee is set to be astandout eventfor Vitax as the companynot only unveilsan exciting range of newseason products, but also debuts alargerstand designed toshowcase its extensiveproduct portfolio.Taking centrestage in Hall10, Vitax’s expanded floorplatewill provide improvedvisibility of itsmarket-leading brands, includingVitax Q4,Slug Gone, SBK, Nipponand 6X. Vitaxwill alsobelaunching a number of newproducts forthe 2025/26season, including key additions to its liquid feedand ‘Easy Choice’ ranges as consumer demand remains high for plant-specific products. Stand G61-B60

Co-op Wholesaleo

fferspartnershipfor growth

At Co-opWholesale, we’reheretopowerthe successof independent retailers andcorporate partners by delivering theverybestofCo-op throughour flexible, scalable wholesaleservices.Withover160 years of wholesaleheritage, we understand what ambitiousbusinessesneed to grow,and we’reproud to bring ourexpertise to Glee.

West Countrysubstrate fuelsRocketGrocompost RocketGroisaleading 100%British,organic, peatand coir-freecompost producer based in Somerset on a6000-acrefamilyfarm.All composts andgrowing medias aredeveloped from Somerset andWest Countrysourced substrates,are 100% sustainable andSoilAssociation Approvedfor organic growing.RocketGro’s farm produces renewableenergy andenables RocketGrotorun its productionline on 100%renewable energy.Product carbon footprintissolow that arecent audit foundthem to be almostcarbonneutral withoutbuyingcarbon credits. With leading horticulturalistsbehindproduct development, andenoughsubstrates to produce2.5 millionbagsper year, RocketGroisstayingahead of thescienceand futureproofing thebusiness to makesureit’satthe forefront of thepeat-freerevolution, with professional gradeproducts that arepriced to sell Stand12G40

At Glee, we’ll showcaseour trustedCo-op own-brand range, supplychain strength, andbuying power. Our wholesale modelisdesignedtohelp retailersincrease footfall, improvemargins,and achievelong-term success.Its adaptablestructure allowsgardencentres to scale at theirown pacewhilestaying true to their unique businessgoals.We’re heretohelp yougrow, your way. This is morethan just wholesale– it’s apartnershipfor growth,doneright Stand 11D121

Lightupyour outdoor life

New outdoor living offeringsfromFandango Fire Toolsbring portable cooking and clean burn firepits in the mix.

Fandango FireTools, the exclusiveUKdistributor of the award-winning Kindling Cracker™ firewood splitter,is strengthening its outdoorliving portfolio with twoexciting new categories: O-Grill portable gas grills and Nordic Embers clean burning fire pits.

Cooking on the go

Keeping warm Nordic style

Compact, powerful, and easy to use, O-Grillis the ultimateportable gasBBQ forthe growing outdoor cooking market. Its sleekdesign, portability,and strong pricepoint makeita provenbest-seller acrossEuropeand beyond. Availableina rangeofcontemporarycolours, the 500M is the most compactmodel but can easily cook enough food for asmall family The extraheavyduty cast iron and porcelain coated grill plateensureperfect cooking time andtime again.

UndertheirNordicEmbers brand, Fandango Fire Tools is launching astriking collection whichincludes Scandanavianinspired firepits, designed forclean burning andreduced smoke. With their premium finish andsustainabledesign, Nordic Embers fire pits offer an exciting opportunityfor gardencentres to expand theiroutdoor living ranges.

Reasonstostock

Already trustedbyleadingretailers including Blue DiamondGardenCentres,Lakeland, WaitroseGarden, BurfordGardenCo., andPolhill GardenCentre, Fandango Fire Toolshas builtareputationfor supplying innovative,high-quality productsthatdrive footfall anddeliver strongsell-through.

Fandango Fire Toolswill be supporting the launch of O-Grill and Nordic Emberswithtrade events, marketing campaigns, and dedicated dealer support. To see the range of new products visit us at Glee, stand 12A40. Email: info@fandangofiretools.co.uk Tel: 0161 3273984 Visit: www.fandangofiretools.co.uk

Portable O-Grill has integral feet which provide asolid base and fold up foreasy storage.

At the heartofFandango FireTools’ successisits focus on dealer supportcoupled with its ability to recognise and bring great products to market with theaim of enhancing everyone’soutdoor living experience. The company offers:

● Selectivedistribution and priceprotection,

“Our vision is to partner with UK retailersby offering innovative products backedby strong marketing,reliablestock, and margin protection,” says Paul Jenkinson,UK ManageratFandango Fire Tools.

givingretailers confidencethat they won’tbe undercut online.

● Great point-of-sale provision, designedto maximise in-storevisibility andsell-through

● Stockist-friendly MOQs, making it easier for independents and groups alike to bringthe products into theirranges.

Fandango Fire Tools is buildingonthe success of the ingenious KindlingCracker™ firewood splitter

Wilsons of Colchester brings in thebig names

At Glee, Wilsons of Colchesterbrings togethertwo powerhousebrands.Buffalo, trade toughand built to last brushwarehas ametal FSDU which hasbeen making wavesacrossthe UK.Just 1m wide, thissharp, spacesaving unit transformsbrush ware departments in gardencentres,hardwarestores, andbuilders’ merchants Striking grey-and-greendesign, qualitybrush ware,and strong trade margins–all in one. FSDU supplied free with recommended stock.Dethlac, insecticidal antkillerhas been trustedfor more than 60 years.Dethlac ant lacquer sprayboastsinexcessof5,000 Amazon reviews.Sprayed on entry points,itdries clear, is child and pet safeoncedry andlasts forweeks.Fastworkingwithnoreapplicationneeded.FSDUand CDUdisplays available.Pre-order forSpring 2026 Stand 9H75-J74

Helping Hand Environmental seeksgarden centreoutlets

Helping HandEnvironmentalisexcited to exhibitatGLEE for the first time, showcasing sustainable litter-pickingtools trusted by professionals andvolunteersworldwide. Part of TheHelping Hand Company, we’vebeen designing and manufacturing in Herefordshire since1965 andlaunched the world’s first litter picker in 1971.Today,weare theUK’s leading manufacturer of litter clearancetools.Our Britishmade range is 100% reusable,built to last,and designedwithsustainability in mind Already widely used by local authorities,wastecontractors, and communitygroups, we arenow branching intothe retail environment,including gardencentres.We arealready in Notcutts as partofanongoing trial. Visitour stand to seehow our innovative,environmentally responsible rangecan addvalue to your business

Stand 9F85

Bustaseed brings innovation BustaseedLtd is beyond excited to attend Glee forthe first time promoting environmentalpractices suchasrecycling, composting andchemical-free gardening with wildlifeinmind. TheBustaseed PropagationTrayisa revolutionaryproduct. Its innovativedesignallowsyoung plants to be securelyand swiftlyremovedfrom theirtraymodulewhenready to be potted or plantedout. The open-fronted,insertrow arrangement allowsplants to be tippedout with ease.Basetrays, packagingsleeves andinsert rows arefully andeasilyrecyclable. Plantpropagators are extremely durableand come withafive-year guarantee.

Stand 9K96

Smartstorage

from Soho Sumex Tools

Exhibiting for the first time this year is Soho Sumex Tools –awell-established manufacturer of gardening hand and powertools, watering accessories, gloves, kneelingpads, storage systems andgeneral hand tools. Supplying privatelabel products to theUKfor over15years, its modular wall storage system will be exhibitedasGlee. Suitablefor useinsheds, garages and outbuildings, this practical storage solutionoffers abroad range of configurationsthat can be adapted to individual requirements- making storing lawnmowers, tools, laddersand car accessories easy and convenient Available in pre- packed configurations and individualcomponents, including hooks, powertool holders, shelvesand drawers.For large andsmall items, this is a flexible storagesolution forthe smartorganisation of outdoorspaces.

Stand 9H80

TriganoJardincombines play andoutdoorliving

Trigano Jardin is aEuropean leaderinleisureand outdooractivities offeringproducts with recognised expertise anda reputationfor excellence. As thepioneer of the firstmetal swing setkit launched in France,ithas establisheditself as akey playerinoutdoor play through twocomplementaryareas of expertise:outdoor play equipmentwithAléobyTrigano andoutdoor living solutions with KoverbyTrigano (carports, sheds, etc.)Based in thecentreofFranceemploying 120 people, the company drawsonits solidexpertise.The neweco-friendly Harmonierange reducesits carbon footprint withsustainable materials suchaswoodfromresponsible sourcesand locally sourcedplastic and ropes reindustrialised in France.Morethan50% of theproducts arecertified OrigineFranceGarantie (produced on-siteinFrance)

Stand12A33

AutoPotfor automatic watering

At Glee, AutoPotwillhaveits Khloris automatic plantwatering systems in action. Part of theRHS-endorsed range, it is the first automatic,powerfree,fully responsiveplant watering systemtobedesignedfor living rooms,balconies,and conservatories,combining atasteful, sculpted, interior-friendlyaestheticwithhighly effective,easy-to-use irrigation technology. Thesystemputs an end to hand wateringand gives plantsfull control of theirown irrigation -theycan draw what they need, when they need it, andthrive. Allofthis, whilerequiring no electricity or mains water.

Accompanying Khloris willbeAutoPots full selectionofRHS-endorsed productswhich encompasspretty much everyplant wateringapplication imaginable -something forevery typeofgrowerand everytypeofgrowing space.

Stand C71-D70

Mercia mastersoutdoor buildings and toys

After morethan 140 years,Mercia Garden Buildings remains true to its values: sustainability,passion, andquality craftsmanship.These principlesare at the heartofall it creates, and theyshine in the brand-newrange of outdoor toysbeing unveiled at Glee. Designed andbuilt in the UK factory, just astone’sthrow from its original workshop, each pieceiscrafted from sustainably sourcedand certifiedtimber Pastel blue accents on swings, slides, and secure bracketsadd acharmingtouch, while themodular design means each structure adapts easily to any garden and can be expanded over time. With fivegenerations of expertise, Mercia has also masteredthe artof building spacesfromits built-to-last garden shedsto premium insulated garden rooms made from slow-grownScandinavian timber. Stand 12E50-F51

SteppingintoGlee with botanical charm

Remembered forits retailinnovationinthe 1980s andearly ’90s,SOCKSHOP nowbrings itstrusted sock expertise to Glee with afresh focus on thegardencentremarket. From thewarmth of HeatHolders® to theeverydaycomfort of Gentle Grip® andthe wellbeing support of IOMI FootNurse®, SOCKSHOP’s brands areprovenfavourites. Newfor this year is theelegant RHSCollection,inspired by botanical artand perfect forgardenlovers. With stylish socks that make greatgifts anddeliver excellent margins, SOCKSHOP isa must-visit forbuyers seeking quality, innovationand retail-ready appeal Stand9E83

Celebratewith HenryBell &Co

Thereisanair of celebrationonthe Henry Bell &Costandasthe company marks its 200th anniversary. Establishedin1825, it hastwo wholecenturies of manufacturing under its belt andhas become aleading light in theworldofanimaland wildbird feeds, delivering qualityproducts and excellentcustomerservice. Visitors are invited to theHenry Bell stand,which has been created to showcase thecompany andits rich heritage andpowerful portfolio of brands -Henry Bell WildBirdCare, Mr Johnson’s, EquiGlo Horse Feedsand Dog Gone Fishin’.Much-lovedbest-sellers and some excitingnew rangeextensions from theHenry Bell Wild Bird CareCollection will be on parade throughout theshow, with team members looking forward to meeting existingand potential new customers.

Stand 9H33-J34

Stylish rainwater harvesting

Prestige Waterprovides UK-manufactured rainwater harvesting and garden solutions, featuring durable MDPE waterbutts and planters designed for sustainable watermanagement. Productsblend practicalitywith aesthetic appeal, enhancing garden ambiance.Specifically, the waterbutt range combines robustness with elegant design, offering efficient rainwater capturefor environmentally conscious homeowners. These aren’t just functionalvessels; they’re stylish additions to any outdoorspace. Planters, crafted from recyclableMDPE,ensure durability with frostand UV resistancecombined withnatural-looking finishes andmattetextures, in various sizes to accommodatediverseplanting needs. Selectmodels includeintegrated waterstorage or attenuation, promotingsustainablegardening Stand 9G95

Jagram’s 3D configuratorunlocks designpotential

For35years,Jagramhas been designingand manufacturing unique wooden garden structures. This year,highlight forthe NewProduct Award, is the Venetian Planter–a stylish,durable solution craftedfrom premium, weather-resistant larchwood. Already awell-knownand lovedproduct, thenew innovative3Dconfiguratoroffers added value to unlock the full potential of the entireVenetian panel system allowing the design of modularlayouts that combineplanters, panels,and other accessories. In justa few clicks, youcan visualise your space,adjustdimensions, and exploreendlesscombinations,turning ideasintothe build-ready designs.Stepintothe worldthat transforms wood into harmony,meet the passionateteamand discover howJagramcan help transform your garden.

Stand 12D40-E41

RobertDyasplantsanew seed

RobertDyas, aleading retailer in thehome andgardensector, haslotstooffer both on the high street andonline: its extensivegardencategoryincludeseverything from garden equipment to live plants andoutdoor buildings,providingfor everyconsumer need.Still growing strong after 150years on thehigh street, it is nowthrivingalongside anew shoot…Newonline brand, gardencentre.co.uk, brings thegardencentretoyour home.

Garden enthusiasts andpet owners can browse thousands of lines acrossexpertlycurated ranges,fromliveplantsto outdoor furniture, garden buildings andpet products–with free delivery nationwide. This newadditiontothe Theo PaphitisRetail Groupportfolioprovides adedicated platform to deliveranextensive gardencentreexperience,showcased andpromotedall year round.

Stand 12G61

Outdoor cooking Sahara style

Sahara BBQ’sisaEuropean based bbqand heatermanufacturer witha broad range of gas and charcoal grills, alongwithafull rangeofaccessories.Sahara has growntobecome aleading brandinthe UK bbqmarketand is excited to launch innovativenew bbq modelsand theSaharamodularoutdoor kitchen for the 2026 seasonatGlee. Alongside is thecurrent rangewhich features the exciting and newfor 2025,social Arkebbq,and stylishCharcoalForge Host Stand 10G60

•

•

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MontyMiracle is returningto GLEE with arange of newproducts and merchandising opportunitiesfor alltypes of retailer.Below is afull list of products that will be showcasedbythe MontyMiracle team:

•NEW

•NEW

•NEW

•NEW 1.5L Pump Sprayer

•NEW

•

•NEW 20mComplete Hose Reel

•NEW

Greetings from Woodmansterne

Woodmansterne is set to make abig impact at Glee,with its latest GiftPackaging Collection alongside award-winning greetingcards.The stand is styled with astriking botanical design by licensedartistSarah Gordon, creating an invitingspace forvisitorswith refreshments and treats. Alongside the GiftPackaging Collection, visitorscan explore acarefullycurated rangeofnew products,featuring TheLeaf, National Trust,the Greenfingers Charity and more than 20 leading UK publishersthrough its W-Select Category Management Programme. Woodmansterne will also show retailers howtoboost sales through cross-selling greeting cardsand gift packaging Stand 9D31-E30

Toucan brings a competitiveedge

In thecompetitive gardencentresupply market, success depends on understandingcustomers, spottingtrends,and acting quickly Toucan Sales Analytics givessuppliers apowerful advantageby transformingraw salesdata into clear,actionableinsights. Fully integrated with leadingaccountingand ordersystems,ittracks everyproduct, customer, andterritory, helpingyou identifytop performers andareas forimprovement. Real-time dashboards reveal customerbuying patterns, seasonal shifts,and missed opportunities—allowing youtomakesmarter stock, pricing,and sales decisions. From increasing repeat orders to targetingthe right productsatthe right time, Toucan empowers teamstosellmore efficiently andprofitably.For gardencentresuppliers whowant to stay ahead, Toucan SalesAnalytics is more than software—it’sa competitiveedge. Stand11E83

Greenkeymakes gardeningeasy Greenkey Garden&Home bringsquality,function, and innovation to everyday outdoor and home care. As apassionatetribe of garden enthusiasts, we supply solutions that help peopleenjoy gardening and household tasks with ease. Our range of carefully selected productsincludes expertly designed tools, watering solutions, wildlife habitats, decorproducts, and accessories that combine durability with user comfort. The Greenkey range continuestoevolve with freshnew ideas for 2026, designedtoinspire gardenersand homemakers alike.Withover100 new practical gardening anddécor products thereislots to talk about.

Stand 10D40

Primus unveils largest ever catalogue

Monty Miracle is toughongrime MontyMiracle is returning to Glee withnew products andmerchandising opportunitiesfor allretailers to help drive sales. Theteamwillbe introducingits 750ml hand-held and accessories range-created in response to consumer and trade demand.Monty Miracle OutdoorCleaner is proventoeliminateblackspot, algae, lichenand otherorganicstains on most external hard surfaces including stone, wood, plastic, concreteresin andcoatedmetals, making it ideal forcleaning driveways, patios andwalls.Made in theUK, MontyMiracle completely neutralises following thecleaning process. Theentire rangeand all merchandising support willbeonthe standand guests will be provided with a branded tote bag withthe newhandheldproduct to take away

Stand9G96

NewRHS-endorsed range from Tildanet Tildenet Gardenwareislaunching itsRHS-endorsed CountryForge Range at Glee–a handcrafted collectionofgardenstructures,plant supports, and hanging baskets developed in partnershipwiththe Royal Horticultural Society. Featuringarches, obelisks,trellis,border edging,screens, andtraditional hangingbaskets,each pieceismadefromrobust, powdercoated steelfor durability andfinished in aclassicmatt black fortimelessappeal.Designed to suitany gardensetting,the products carrythe iconic RHSlogo,guaranteeingauthenticity andhighstandards.Strong‘Hand Crafted’ packagingand custommerchandising stands help maximise retail impact,while versatile designsensure year-round appealcombiningTildenet’s qualitycraftsmanship withthe RHS’sprestigious reputation.

quality craftsmanship with the RHS’s prestigious

Stand9G100

Primusiscelebrating its mostsuccessfulyear to date with itslargest-everproduct catalogueatGlee.Featuring over 150new product lines, the 2026 range cementsPrimus as the UK’s first choicefor garden décor.Available for presale with stockready forthe startof2026, aselection of products is also available to order fordeliveryin Q4 2025, giving retailers an immediatesales opportunity.New ranges feature expansionsofPrimus’s best-sellers from 2025, alongsideahost of new, in-house designed collections. Each range embodies thebrand’scommitmenttooriginalityand creativity,offering retailers garden décor that stands out in the marketplace. Primus is also proud to announce arole of exclusiveUKdistributor forNature’sMelody musically tuned wind chimes, bringing one of theworld’smost celebrated chimeranges to UK garden retailers.

Stand 9K71

Joyful gardening from Taylors

Taylor’s Bulbshas unveiled itsPacked With Joymulti-channel campaignto boostengagementand drivesales and footfall throughgardencentres this autumn. Rolling outacrosssocialmedia and in-store,the clevermarketing campaign encouragescustomers to buyand plantbulbs nowfor aspring full of colourful displaysand vibrant blooms. With attention-grabbing visualsfromthe creativeinstore POS and afocus on feel-goodmessaging, this joyful campaign is designedto inspire andeducatethe public, while supportingretail outlets UK wide.

Stand9K50

Inspiration station

Each yearBall in Oxfordshire, opens itsgates forretailers and growerstosee the latest trends and cultivarsfor sale in the coming year andbeyond.

DahliaGardinettaVelvet Crush graces the frontcoverofthe Ball 2026 catalogue which comesout this month and for goodreason. It hasalready caused astirwinning bestnew plantatBBC Gardeners’WorldLiveinJune –it’sdark foliage and deep purpleblooms securingit as acustomerfavourite

At Ball’s SummerInspirationopen events duringJuly,LisaJeffs, Marketing andProductManager, says Velvet Crushwillsoon be joined by Scarlet and Pearl with plugs available from week 10 deliveries. “Someofour customers sampled Velvet Crushthisyear,but it will be launched in September andavailable to amuchlargeraudience.”

Bouquet Buffet selections look good in thegarden and as cut stems in avase indoors

Experiments forthree in apot include Dianthus DartScarlet, CupheaMYRTIS DARK PURPLE and Cineraria‘Silver Dust’.

Lisa adds the open events this year promoted Ball’sbig push of basket and container plantsplus the expanding range of its perennials. “Weare constantlyreviewing and adjusting our perennial range to keep things fresh,”she says.

This includestrials experimentswiththree perennialsinone potfor instant sales. Of this ‘one and you’re done’approach, Lisa says: “We’re lookingatmorecombinationsthat help garden centres andother retailerselevate everyday items.”

Asimilar idea for2026comes from the retail concept of Bouquet Buffets.Again,itbrings threecomplementary plants together in a singlepot but this time they lookgood and offer theoptionofcutting blooms to enjoyin thehouse

Dahlia Gardinetta Velvet Crush

Lisa Jeffs withPetuniaEasy Wave Pink Pearl, a new colour in theserieswhich is celebrating its 30th year

Pushing home the fact that trolly dressing and bench tape add value, convey themes, draw customer attentionand hopefullyleadtoanimpulse purchase.

Countdown to biggest- everPATS

PATS 2025 willstagethe biggest-ever exhibition in its 16-year history when the event takesplace at theNEC Birmingham forthe first time.The Pet&AquaticsTrade Show will be hostedinHall1 over three daysfromSunday,28th September throughtoTuesday, 30th September2025.

Following arecord-breaking PATS 2024,which sawthe largest ever increase in both exhibitor and visitor numbers, the 2025 eventisset to offer companiesevenmoreopportunities as it movestothe UK’s largest exhibition centre.

The move to the NECmeansthat over 430 exhibitors can be accommodated andmoreofthe latest launches can be showcased to awider audienceofpet store, garden centres and international buyers.

One of the most popular features of the exhibition– TheNew Product Showcase –isalways popular as it gives buyers thechanceto feel and touch the new productsthey

will be stocking for the coming season. All entries in the Showcase will be judged by apanel of independent pet retailers to decide the winners of the NewProduct Awards.

Visitors canalso look forward to the NewStarterZone,wherebuyers can source products from newbusinesses and start-ups;and theAquaticsZone,a focused area for the keyaquatics, reptile and watergardening exhibitors.

PATS will also be presenting state-ofthe-artdemonstrations in the Grooming Workshop

PATS offersfreeshowentryand afree catalogue. With good catering facilities and plenty of seating areas taken care of, visitorscan concentratefully on the main businessofthe day –seeing top-classpet

from the biggest range of

products from the biggestrange of suppliers and manufacturers…all under one roof Retailers and buyers canregister for PATS 2025 by going to the exhibition website www.patshow.co.uk, whichhas all the up-todateinformation about the show.

Opening times

Sunday,28th September 2025: 9.30am-5.00pm Monday,29th September 2025: 9.30am-5.00pm Tuesday,30th October 2025: 9.30am-4.00pm

100%UK-ownedand independently run Fast dispatch -trade-friendly pricing TrustedbyUKGardenCentres and gardeners ReadytoStockthe LAVA-LITE range? Whether you’reagardencentre, retailchain,or boutiquestore,we’dlovetotalk. Contact:DominicorKieron |Email: enquiries@lava-lite.co.uk |Phone:

The UK’sdefinitive event forthe Pet&Aquatics Trade

Our sector is changing… areyou?

Paul Pleydell – Founder andDirector of Pleydell Smithyman.

Weare partoffantastic industry, that we love,cherish, and enjoy, and everyweek Iamreminded of the passion that drives us all forward

But we arealso all toofamiliar with the uncertainties andpressures that surround us. It is easy to ignorethese and buryour heads ‘ostrich style’ deep intothe sand, but in this rather undignified position, problems arelikely to biteusonthe backside before we realise what is going on.

So,what is going on,and what should we be doing...?

Weather and costs

Despitewhat we might like to think, the weather is stillincharge.Ithas the powerto control howour businesses perform. This season wasaverydelightful ‘up,’ but we all knowitcan also be adevastating ‘down.’And that is fine when youhavea businessthat has traditionally made ahealthy margin, and therewas enough of acushion in the bottom line, or the bank, that tough yearscould be absorbed. Sadly,those days (likemyhairline of manymany years ago) arereceding Staff costs andproductcosts arerising and yet, after many years of lowinflation, in avery‘British’ way, we feel slightly awkward aboutraising our prices. As a result of these financial pressures, the key topic of conversation we arehaving with ourclients nowisabout restoring profits and strengthening the ‘bottomline’. For many thisisunfamiliar andtherefore uncomfortable territory.

And we areall starting to recognise and get used to thefact (and yes, it is afact) that alot of non-gardening products are out-performingplants and gardening.Ifwe putonour accountant’shats on and lookat sales performance (and margin) from every squaremetreofour retail space, we might

Find out more

end upwith agigantic play barn selling meat –with not aplant in sight.

The reality is that the regular and detailed analysis we do at Pleydell Smithyman clearly shows gardening departments don’tperform as well as non-gardening products, but they areour lifeblood, and we need to maintain the right balanceacrossour businesses

Yes, businesses will differ,and we love that, but we need to be awarethat when times aretough moneystarts to talk louder than values, so we need to listen carefully

The wayahead

Forme, the wayahead for our sectorisclear and centres around six simple ideas

•Understand whereyou aregoing. Have awell-consideredvision and strategy for your businesses –this isn’tjustan idea, biggest, best etc, it is an analytical understanding of whereyou aretaking the businessand why.Itcan also be personal, what is important to your future.

•Passiton. Pricesand costs aregoing up and we shouldn’thavetoabsorb these. I recognise the economistsamongst us will see me fanning the flames of inflation, but everyone is getting used to higher prices,

and to quotethe old adage ‘only one person can be the cheapest.’Recognise thevalue youbring

•Makeitworthwhile. See abusiness through the eyes of its customers. What tangible benefits areyou really providing overand above the norm?Sadly,insome cases not enough. ‘I will shop online until you give me reasons not to…‘

•Understand what goodlookslike. Celebratewhat youare doing well, but the real opportunity is what we aren’tdoing so well, and wherethereisheadroom for growth. These arethe areas to understand and focus on, not just the things we do now but newthings that could add depth,range and strengthen the business

•‘Battendownthe hatches’. Our climate is getting drier,wetter,hotter,and colder –we need to recognise this and createplaces that soften these uncomfortable impacts. Let’sget weatherproof

•Creategreat projects that deliver return on investment. Ourbusinesshelps businessesbuild and grow.Sometimesthis includes ‘bricks and mortar’but not always. Supporting cleverand profitable events programmes and better useofspaceis always agood thing,but not just by copying others,bycreating something that has true meaning

We areblessed by being partofa sector that is atrue community,wherepeople share, listen, support,and enjoy helping each other Now, more than ever,weneed each other

We need to support eachother and invest in this community.Those Isee doing this are flourishing and those that are‘doing their ownthing’aren’tfinding things so easy

Let’sall look after eachother in these trying times and createafuturefor the sector we can continue to be proud of

Pleydell Smithyman is adesignand business consultancy assistinggardencentres andrural businessestobeevenbetter.With an experienced team, Paul hassupported thesector formorethan 40 years. Workingnationwide, theyprovide business strategies and masterplans, planning advice, architecture, retail,caféand interior concepts and designs, operational adviceand landscapeand ecologyservices. ContactPaul on 01952 433211 or email paul@pleydellsmithyman.co.uk www.pleydellsmithyman.co.uk

Theway ahead is to have aplan.

out and

Getting outand about

Will Armitage, HTAPresident

Ihope youmanaged to enjoyabreak this summer after what wasahectic spring season; youall truly deserve it! The summer holiday seasonseemed to flash by in the blink of an eyefor me, but Istill managed to squeeze in an HTABusinessImprovement Scheme (BIS) quarterlymeeting at New Hopetoun Gardens, just outside Edinburgh, as well as an inspirational meeting at KirtonFarm Nurseries in Hampshirefor an education on howtobuild atruly environmentally sustainable business. Nowit’sontothe exhibition season…

At the time of writing, the next few weeks areaconstantstream of exhibitions: Four Oaks, The Autumn Fair,Glee, BETA, PATS,Ecommerce Expoand Garden Expo Membersofthe HTAteam areattending most of these events, and Iwill also be at many of them, representingthe HTAaswell as my retail and manufacturing clients. If youdosee me,please stop and say hello. Did youalso managetocatch the HTA’s Technicaland Trade Policy Manager,Sally CullimoreatFour Oaks? She waspart of apanel discussion on Wednesday 3rd September,exploring what the futuremay holdfor the EU-UK deal forplant exporters andimporters

As one of the GleePartners, the HTA will be at the NECBirmingham from the 16th-18th September.You can findusin Hall 11 stand number 70A, wherewe’ll be providing complimentaryrefreshments to our members. If youare passing, please call in, meet the team, see what the HTA hasbeen up to andwhat we haveplanned for the future. Youcan also findout more about some ofthe fantasticspeakers and sessionslined up for HTA’s‘Horticulture, the Conference’ at the Barbican Centreon Thursday 25th September,for whatI am sure will be the bestHTA Conferenceyet (tickets arestill available).

Regional member events

But it’snot just exhibitions thisautumn, the HTA’smember engagement team is busy

with ournew series of regional member events. These events offer achanceto connect and engage with fellowHTA members,learn from industryexperts on topics affecting you, and shareyourvoice to makeadifferenceinenvironmental Horticulture. All of the details canbefound on the HTAwebsitesoplease do havealook and remember youdon’thavetostickto events in your area, youare always welcome to book ontoany or as many events as you choose

Andifthat’snot enough, the HTA’sPolicy Team arealso flatout as PartyConference season approaches. The team continues to engage acrossthe political spectrum and will attend political party conferences this month and in October,tomakesure horticulturestays on the agenda, whatever the political colour

Our Policyteam is also preparing the HTA’sAutumnBudgetsubmission, which we expect the Chancellor to deliver in late October or early November.Weare all too awareofthe impact of last year’s Budget on the horticultureindustry, so our asks focus on business ratesreform,sustainability grants,EPR and the Recycling Assessment Methodology,and transitional supportfor businessesasnegotiations between theUK and EU get underway.

Find out more

TheHorticultural Trades Association is the UK industry’s leading membership organisation andwelcomes all sectors of environmental horticulture. To learn more,pleasevisit www.hta.org.uk or to enquire aboutmembershipplease email: membership@hta.org.uk

The perfect timeto reconnect

Vicky Nuttall, DirectorofGIMA

Aswehurtle headlong towards autumnand takestock on an extremely busy season, it’stime to come together to shareour storiesand start gearing up for 2026.What better placetodo thisthan at Glee, whereweare excited to be hosting our biggest-everGIMA Business Village andwelcoming awealth of newmembers.

So many of us spend alarge part of ourdays glued to ascreen, firing off emails and talking virtually on Zoom, which is why opportunities to meet face-to-face and network with our peers is such apleasure. Connecting people is abig partofwhat GIMA does and, this year,having seen significant growth, we are delighted to be able to bringevenmore members together than before. After the season, no doubt, therewill be muchtotalk about!

Into2026

Although we arestill only in September, Glee does tend to mark agateway intothe next year,asnew launches areunveiled, plansare made, and trends forecast. We will be kicking off our first series of GIMA hosted Buyer Connect meetings at the show,fostering meaningful collaboration between retailers and suppliers. We will also be awarding thenew recipient of theGIMAInnovators Seedcorn Fund, in partnership with Glee. This initiative is something our organisation is extremely passionateabout, as it helps givealeg-upto game-changing newbrands, giving themaccess to far morethan just asum of money. We’ve hadsome brilliant winnersinthe past,who have gone ontodogreat things in the industry, with ahelping hand from GIMA along theway There’salot to celebrateatGlee and the

What’scoming up

“Connectingpeopleis abigpartofwhatGIMA does…”

Business Village provides afantastic hub,where visitorsand exhibitorscan tapintoour network andexperience.Thatgoes forbothmembers andnon-members, so pleasedopop by and say hello. Youcan come andtalktous, find out aboutmembership and what we’vegot coming up in the calendar becausewealwayshave something going on.

Irelish any opportunity forthe industry to come together and am looking forward tocatching up with peopleatGlee, hearing theircomments and what they’ve made of theseason so far. FormostGIMA members, it’s been agood year but there arestill some underlying challenges forall businesses out there.Looking ahead,there is stillconfidence in the trade andweshould see strong autumn gardening demand, as peoplereplaceplants

and refreshtheir lawns. Cash has come through the tills this year and people are feeling relativelyoptimistic. In fact, we’veseen that confidencereflectedinticketsalesfor the GIMA Awards. We’reat350 guestsalreadyand we haven’tevenannouncedthe host yet! The heatwas certainlyonthis year –inmore ways thanone –but nowwe’ve gotthe chance to re-group,cometogethertoshareour experiencesand make positiveplansfor 2026

About GIMA

GIMA is amembership organisation of over 200companies representingthe majority shareofsuppliers and manufacturers operating within the UK gardening industry, togetherwith an estimated £4billion in annual trade.

GIMA’s goal is to promotethe commercial, trading andindustrial interestsofits UK and EU-based members supplyingthe UK garden retail industry.Run by asmall team of dedicatedprofessionals, and governed by acouncil of members,GIMA is funded by membership subscriptions and services.The rangeofservices and supportprovidedfor members is extensive,offering something forall members, regardlessoftheir sizeor heritage

Find out more

Anybusinesses interested in joining GIMA can contactthe GIMAteam at 01959564947 orinfo@gima.org.uk. Full details regarding GIMA’s multiple-member benefits canbefoundat www.gima.org.uk

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Findinspirationorspeak toourteamtoday.We’re readytobringyourvision tolife

Popbyandsayhelloandfindouthowwemightbe abletohelpyoudrawinthecrowd. We’reinHall11 on stand 11E80.

Stephen Toone,ManagingDirector

Garry Summerfield,TechnicalSalesManager

Adam Collier,HeadofSales