Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024 by Eljays44

December 2023/January 2024

Dobbies Antrim

We explore the launch of Dobbies’ largest store

Preventing theft

What strategies are available to mitigate the risks?

Issue 73

Planters

Merchandising tips from Ivyline

Houseplants

Is the trend for houseplants set to continue?

VISIT US in Hall M Stand M1

Illuminate your Holidays with Lumineo Unveil the charm of the holiday season with Decoris Experience everlasting joy with our Everlands

Embrace the

Festive Magic & Celebrate the Season!

Book your appointment at Harrogate! Contact us via

WWW.KAEMINGK.COM or contact your sales representative

Christmas trees

Welcome

erry Christmas everyone! And before I get started, I hope this season is a blissfully busy one for all of you. I remember as a child, visiting our local garden centre at this time of year was so magical. Now I’ve got children of my own, we’ll be visiting our local garden centres over the weekends of this month to revel in everything Christmas – the displays, the lights, the sprinkles of joy that you all work so hard to provide. It’s easy to forget at this time of year just how difficult the past 12 months have been at times. Economic uncertainty, political unrest and many other issues we’re all facing in our daily lives have frequently cropped up, and this

often is a signal for consumers to cut back their spending. But this industry has once again shown its resilience, and has provided a sanctuary and a place to escape to for those that need it the most. I’m proud to work amongst you all. 2024 is a big year for us. We’re hoping to see many of you at the inaugural Garden Centre Expo in October, and the team and myself will be itching to visit as many of you as we possibly can – we want to help you with your pain points, help guide your business through any technological advancements and provide case studies on how garden centres can continue to improve their business. If you would like us to come and visit you, please do reach out to our team. That’s it for 2023, see you in 2024!

Eljays44 Ltd 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex, BN16 3DA EDITORIAL Head of content – Joe Wilkinson joe.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 587 Senior subeditor – Katrina Roy katrina.roy@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 570 Subeditor – Sam Seaton sam.seaton@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 570 Senior designer – Kirsty Turek kirsty.turek@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 577 ADVERTISING Portfolio director – Luke Page luke.page@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 580 Sales director – Rob Dwyer rob.dwyer@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 573 Event manager – Tom Glasby tom.glasby@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 959 391

Joe Wilkinson

MANAGEMENT Managing director – Jamie Wilkinson

Joe Wilkinson Head of content

CIRCULATION Subscription enquiries info@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 570 Printed by Stephens and George Ltd Published by ©Eljays44 Ltd Garden Centre Retail is published by Eljays44 Ltd. The 2024 subscription price is £125. Subscription records are maintained at Eljays44 Ltd, 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA. Articles and information contained in this publication are the copyright of Eljays44 Ltd and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss of, or damage to, non-commissioned photographs or manuscripts.

THIS INDUSTRY HAS ONCE AGAIN SHOWN ITS RESILIENCE

gardencentreretail.com

Whilst every effort has been made to maintain the integrity of our advertisers, we accept no responsibility for any problem, complaints, or subsequent litigation arising from readers’ responses to advertisements in the magazine. We also wish to emphasise that views expressed by editorial contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers. Reproduction of any part of this magazine is strictly forbidden.

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Contents

Con ten

GCA – First Year Review Peter Burks, CEO of the Garden Centre Association reflects on his first year, and shares plans for 2024

Get Spring Ready GIMA looks into pre orders for the start of the gardening season

14 17 22 26 30 34 38 40 42 44

Navigating the New Year Industry expert Andrew Burton talks effective planning for 2024

An interview with Ken Ferguson Dobbies Antrim’s general manager takes us behind the scenes

Concessions Factors to consider when allocating space for a concession

Preventing Theft GCS (GB) on shrinkage mitigation strategies

Kitchen Design Effective kitchen layouts to boost catering success

Houseplant Trends The Horti House’s take on 2024 houseplant trends

Merchandising Candles The Country Candle Co. on vibrant, quirky displays

Products – Candles and Home Fragrance Products in the candles and home fragrance sector

Presenting Pots and Planters Ivyline offers advice on effective in-store sales techniques

Products – Pots and Planters A selection of products in the pots and planters category ready for 2024

47 gardencentreretail.com

Products – Lawn Care Discover the latest innovations to elevate your lawn care routine

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Opinions

First year

REVIEW

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE GCA SHARES HIS FIRST YEAR REVIEW AS WELL AS CHANGES FOR 2024

t’s hard for me to comprehend that 12 months ago I took up the chief executive role at the Garden Centre Association. Once I had got my feet under the table, it was great to discover that the GCA was in a very good place, with several good initiatives being actively researched and pursued. This brought up a number of objectives that members had asked to be reviewed and these were disseminated among teams of the executive committee. I’ve been able to join in and help with these during the year. The main topics have been communication; environment and sustainability; inspection; turnover bands; membership; areas; conference and the GROW e-learning platform.

WE HAVE REWRITTEN THE INSPECTION DOCUMENT THAT IS USED FOR THE UNANNOUNCED VISITS With the help of our micro committee and team of four independent inspectors, we have rewritten the inspection document that is used for the unannounced visits to our member garden centres. The main changes include a bigger focus on social media as a method of communication; a clear attempt to be sourcing the most environmentally suitable products and communicating that to our customers and keeping customer service clearly in the spotlight throughout the visit. This has been tested at one of our consistency days with the inspection team and is now ready to be rolled out in 2024. A great deal of effort was made to try and work out the best way to make the turnover bands fairer. The membership is split into two 8

bands, ‘Garden Centres’ that have a turnover of less than £4m and ‘Destination Garden Centres’, whose turnover is more than £4m. There was a lot of noise around the difference between a centre whose turnover was just above that boundary line and one that was perhaps more than double this, as they are clearly not the same business in structure, staffing, product range, etc. A proposal was worked up and voted on at our conference to help make these bands more appropriate. Also, for our annual conference we listened to feedback regarding cost, number of garden centres versus number of associate members that attend and encouraging a wider audience range. We did this with various discounts for booking early, for those not having attended the conference before and for members of the Young People in Horticulture Association. I am pleased to say that during the year membership has also steadily increased. Finally, I think this is a good time to share the vision, mission and values that the GCA works with. Vision • Growing greener garden centres. • To encourage and support our members to deliver a sustainable future.

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Mission Connect the best garden centres in the UK and inspire and support them to grow and adapt. Values • Inspiration: Inspire our members to do better and to improve their businesses. • Friendship and support: Nurture a network of likeminded people who support each other. • Communication: Encourage open channels of communication and collaboration. • Trust: Respect, integrity and reliability. • Quality: To strive for the very best in everything that we do. • Growth: To grow the GCA and help our member businesses to grow. About Peter Burks Peter Burks, CEO of the GCA, is a fully trained horticulturalist and has worked in directorial and senior management roles for over 40 years. Peter helped set up/run the multi-awardwinning Sanders Garden World in Somerset. He also became regional manager of the South West for Wyevale Garden Centres, and general manager for Trelawney’s in Cornwall, as well as managing Fermoy’s Garden Centre in Devon. gca.org.uk

gardencentreretail.com

E Po S SPECIALISTS F O R GARDEN C ENTRES CONNECTED CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

• EPoS • Order Fulfilment • Advanced Customer Loyal ty • Apps • Webshops • Mobile

Call: 0 1 3 3 2 3 8 3 2 3 1 Em ail: in f o@dav r ic h.c o .u k

W W W. DAV R IC H . CO .U K

YOUR

PEAT FREE JOURNEY CONTINUES HERE…

No Peat, No Additives, No Nonsense. GET YOUR

FREE PALLET 1 pallet of (60 x 40l) compost bags is available to your garden centre.

RRP: £5.49

Offer reserved for the first 20 enquiries. Delivery not included. T&C’s apply.

VISIT: yorganicscompost.co.uk/ become-a-stockist SCAN ME

Restoring Peatlands in partnership with

Made in Yorkshire

Opinions

GET

‘SPRING READY’ WITH RANGE REVIEWS AND PRE-SEASON ORDERS WELL UNDERWAY, GIMA MEMBERS OFFER TOP TIPS TO HELP RETAILERS GET PREPPED FOR SPRING, HIGHLIGHTING THE MUST-HAVE PRODUCTS OF THE SEASON TO KEEP TILLS RINGING Growing success Taylors Bulbs has been working on its in-store POS and merchandising solutions for summer flowering bulbs ahead of the spring 2024 season. It is advocating for customers to use more themes and colour blocking to display summer flowering bulbs, providing inspiration for consumers. There are new POS banners available that retailers can use within their displays, along with new informative banners for its Grow Your Own ranges of onions, shallots, garlic, and seed potatoes. Gardeners will also need the right tools for the job. The Kew Woodland Collection from Spear & Jackson comprises secateurs, loppers and hedge shears. Developed with a traditional rustic look, all have sustainably sourced weatherproofed FSC® ash wood handles that are both comfortable to hold and warmer to the touch in colder weather. (RRP from £22.99). For conscious gardeners, Kew Eco-Kind Gloves are made from recycled polyester. Each pair uses gardencentreretail.com

the equivalent of at least one recycled 500ml plastic bottle and the sustainable manufacturing process conserves oil and CO2 . At the end of their working life, the gloves will biodegrade up to 40 times faster than typical gloves in landfill. They are suitable for light-duty gardening jobs and boast a water-resistant coating. (RRP £5.99). As the love of GYO continues, Zest head of commercial development, Simon Davison says: “There’s a clear interest in becoming more self-sufficient – Zest’s new 2024 GYO range is perfect for enthusiasts, combining spacesaving solutions with functionality. The new Zest Tall Botanical Greenhouse has been met with enthusiasm because it delivers top quality greenhouse functionality, while being accessible in terms of small footprint and usability for the widest range of consumers.”

The AutoPot Tray2Grow offers gardeners five ways to water and feed their plants, satisfying everything from sprouting seeds to vast vines, heady herbs to balmy blooms and voluminous veg. Tray2Grow automatically waters them all perfectly with no electricity or running water required. A sustainable, lowcost way to garden, that can be left unattended, and positioned practically anywhere. Meanwhile, Hortiwool’s 100% compostable all-season, multi-use garden wool pads have many benefits around the garden, thanks to the amazing natural properties of wool. Use them to line pots, planters, or hanging baskets for extra hydration, deter slugs, to add nutrition to soil, protect from frost, and more. Search #hortiwool for more inspiration. Gardening tools and accessories supplier, Barrus launched over 100 new products at

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Opinions

Glee, along with new display systems. Under its Town & Country and Wilkinson Sword brands, the huge new collection includes a range of leisure walking gear, gloves made from recycled materials, stylish walking socks, a selection of different footwear including wellington boots, Cloggies and sandals, and tools including a heart-shaped trowel, leaf rakes and a lawn and scarifying rake. Garden tidy and landscaping After a long winter, products to spruce up outdoor spaces and get them back to their best will be in demand. GARDENA’s new-andimproved CleanSystem tools make cleaning outdoor spaces easier than ever – from patios to decking, furniture, bikes and more. Each tool is packed with handy features to clean and protect outdoor surfaces. EASYCare Minis are a game-changer for garden centres preparing for spring 2024. Each 150ml bottle makes up to 3L of product, offering a cost-effective solution for garden enthusiasts. The environmentallyconscious Minis reduce waste, lower shipping costs, and cut the carbon footprint. With products designed to tackle algae, dirt, grime, lichen and mould on various surfaces, EASYCare Mini’s are the spring-ready must-haves that cater for both sustainability and practicality. Deco-pak’s refreshed Chelsea Horticultural Range boasts an updated retail packaging design, with products now supplied in a gusseted pouch, enabling versatile retail positioning. Whether displayed alongside pots, plants, alpines, growing media, or even in the house plants category, they’re perfect for crossselling. Traditional large packs – especially bestseller, Horticultural Coarse Grit – remain essential for garden centres. Primeur’s recycled landscaping and decorative garden products help gardeners get spring ready, whether using EZ Borders to revamp borders for the new season or refreshing muddy areas with a clear path of Eco Way stepping stones. 12

These extremely durable, yet lightweight, products make DIY garden and landscaping projects a breeze. Have stock in store and ready to go ahead of spring to help customers reshape their space. New larger pallet displays ensure retailers have plenty of stock for big garden projects. Outdoor living Zest is helping retailers capitalise on the outdoor kitchen trend, with new additions to its Terraza collection, which offers a sustainable route to al fresco cooking. New for 2024, the Terraza Outdoor Kitchen set complements existing bestsellers, such as the Garden bar and Garden Pizza Oven table. “It’s about enabling people to feel relaxed and enjoy their outdoor space with the confidence that it’s not at the expense of the environment,” says Simon Davison. A new take on outdoor cooking, the Ninja Woodfire is powered by electricity, with users able to add authentic smoky flavours to anything they make using real hardwood pellets. Enjoy all the flavour without the fuss of gas, charcoal or open flames. Grill, air fry, smoke, and more with Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker or use the Ninja Woodfire Electric Outdoor Oven, Pizza Oven & Smoker to create pizzas in two and a half minutes. Elevate your lighting selection for 2024 with Solar Centre’s brand-new Fluoro Solar USB Post & Spiral Light; a blend of design and innovation that is more than just a light – it’s a statement piece. Cutting-edge technology meets contemporary aesthetics, offering a truly unique lighting solution. Available in two designs, 98cm tall and with built-in USB changing ports, Fluoro Solar Lights are the ‘must have’ outdoor lighting choice of the season.

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Giftable gardening Burgon & Ball managing director Rainer Schubert, says: “Householders are watching the pennies at the moment, but they can still be tempted by the right products. Perfect for Mother’s Day, there’s a new design collection in the RHS Gifts for Gardeners series, entitled ‘Asteraceae’. We’re also launching RHS Growing Gardeners, a collection of tools and accessories to help families enjoy gardening together, backed by an online resource packed with fun projects.” HEMPE offers a natural solution for gardeners everywhere struggling with sore backs, aches and cuts on hands. It combines the best natural ingredients for relief with CBD. The result is three powerful products aimed to alleviate aches, pains and sore skin – HEMPE Hot Muscle & Joint Gel, HEMPE Ice Muscle & Joint Gel and HEMPE SOS Balm. About GIMA Garden Industry Manufacturer’s Association (GIMA) is a membership organisation of around 150 members representing the majority share of suppliers and manufacturers in the UK gardening industry. Formed in 1999, its goal is to promote commercial, trading and industrial interests of UK and EU based companies. GIMA is run by a small team of dedicated professionals and governed by a council of members. gima.org.uk

gardencentreretail.com

Plant-based fertiliser. What else do you need to know?

Organic approved Plant-based power pellets and liquids By-product of energy crops Peat-free soil improver Child, pet and vegan friendly Increases yield and growth Sustainable

Make the change to a sustainable and organic plant-based fertiliser We sow, grow and harvest energy crops on our farm in Cambridgeshire which are then fed into anaerobic digesters. This process generates gas and electricity which supplies the national grid with green energy. We then transform the by-product into Natura Grow Pellets and Liquid fertilisers all on site, which in turn reduces our carbon footprint.

Our unique Bio-Active Pellets rehydrate and expand in the soil improving structure, aiding plant root systems development and access to moisture and nutrients. Natura Grow is organic and naturally Bio-Active, containing macro & micro nutrients plus beneficial bacteria that help plants grow stronger and resistant to disease.

For more information contact our National Sales Manager: Jason Colin jason.colin@naturagrow.co.uk

www.naturagrow.co.uk

Opinions

Insights for navigating

the New Year

GARDEN CENTRE AND FARM SHOP CONSULTANT ANDREW BURTON SHARES VALUABLE INSIGHTS ON EFFECTIVE PLANNING FOR 2024

can’t talk about planning ahead without getting straight to the point: Failing to plan is planning to fail! It is an age-old saying, but one that continues to ring true in so many situations and environments. Strategic planning is an essential part of my job, whether focusing on operational strategy, or longer-term site development, I work with garden centre owners across the UK to create development plans for the future. Anyone who knows me knows I am an advocate of the five Ps: proper planning prevents poor performance. But I can’t understate the importance of futureproofing yourself and your business. Planning ahead doesn’t come easily to everyone – sometimes due to time restraints or higher priorities, or because of team size and skillset – however, as a leader of your

business, failing to consider your vision and strategy will often come back to bite you. Planning ahead can be done verbally, written or through design, and can be a solo job or one undertaken by a team – and as is the case with the businesses I support – can include external resource. But ultimately, whatever format the thought process takes, a business without a plan and without goals in place is likely to struggle. How can you plan if you don’t know the future? I was recently asked: “What is going to happen in 2024?” We all have our own thoughts and views of the coming year, and data analysis and history can help when considering the future, but ultimately who knows what is going to happen?

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

I attended the 2023 Horticulture Trade Association Conference, where multiple international prize-winning economist Dr Tim Leunig, director at Public First Consulting, referenced Brexit, covid and the RussiaUkrainian War, highlighting that many unforeseen global events happen and cannot be controlled, essentially affecting the economy and businesses worldwide. The question I ask is, “what can you plan for?” These are my four key considerations for 2024: 1) Team development The most valuable resource any business has is its people. They are the life blood of our garden centres and their passion, commitment and care is often what sets them apart from other retail outlets. However, retention and gardencentreretail.com

people with different views; understand your customers (external and internal); and be open to doing something that is right for both the business and the team. 3) Identify immediate opportunities within your business Always start by understanding what success looks like for your business. Often referred to as ‘low hanging fruit’, immediate opportunities may include things that can be altered within your team, such as process development and customer service standards. Or perhaps opportunities lie in your shop floor flow and layout, or in the customer proposition. I feel lucky to be able to work with garden centres and farm shops to identify specific opportunities and help them to create a vision for the future. Sometime a spark such as a small development can light a larger fire! I have recently worked on a couple of projects where in both cases, the garden centres required food hall design work. This included a range of aspects such as staff requirements, product ranging, layout and design. However, when I was working with the owners to review one of the sites and commercial reports, it was clear that their opportunity was wider in scale than food retail, and we identified subsequent opportunities to increase turnover in a mix of departments. In the other case, the site had the opportunity to move other retail departments around to maximise product adjacencies, improve and increase footfall through impulse products,

and to create a stronger design which was more appealing and complementary of their product range. This needed to be done without undermining its existing brand and with capital investment in mind. To deliver this kind of vision, it takes commercial planning, design

ALWAYS START BY UNDERSTANDING WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE FOR YOUR BUSINESS planning, timeline planning and planning how to communicate to the team and customers. 4) Be SMART Any strategy and business objective being implemented by a business should be SMART: specific (standards), measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Defining these parameters as they pertain to your goal helps ensure that objectives are attainable within a certain time frame. However, as things develop, it is important to be flexible and to revisit and review – it is important not to lose sight of your aims but identifying ‘measure points’ to review progress of objectives is essential. In short, always be SMART! Are you ready for the future? Who knows if anyone is ready for future. But to stay ahead and be as ready as you can be, start planning. Next year may bring more unknown, so focus on what you can influence, what definitely needs planning for, and then commit to it. About Andrew Burton Andrew works for Pleydell Smithyman as an associate director, focusing on garden centre and farm shop advice, with an overarching aim of business strategy and development. He provides site development and commercial & operational support. He sits on the Farm Retail Association Council, and previously on the Garden Centre Association Board. andrewb@pleydellsmithyman.co.uk

gardencentreretail.com

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Opinions

recruitment of key staff and future leaders isn’t easy. Yes, money has an effect on who you can recruit and why staff join you. As a generation, we want more than financial rewards. We seek ongoing development and support, more reasons to work at a specific site than a competitor, to be treated individually and personally, and the assurance that the company we work for aligns with our values. Having a vision for recruitment, alongside a strategic plan to deliver it, could be the reason someone wants to join, and without a strong team of committed individuals you are at risk of potentially losing your best staff to competitors. 2) Be ready for changing customer needs The world is changing and our customer expectations are changing with it. As technology changes, so do customers habits – for example the technology deployed by McDonalds restaurants, whereby food is ordered via an app or on-screen ordering systems. Customers now regularly expect this instant ordering system. This technology has rolled out to many other businesses with self-service checkouts and click-and-collect areas being commonplace. Other developments help internal processes within a business, such as stock management systems which support staff productivity and delivery of objectives. My advice is to never to assume you know what your customers want, but do keep on top of the changing world. Keep yourself and the business informed; work with a mix of

Accept card, contactless and online payments Card machines starting from £39, one off payment. Instant settlement No monthly fees Free SIM card Multiple currencies

store.london@mypos.com 0 20 3129 2341

mypos.com

Features

An interview with

Ken Ferguson

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH DOBBIES ANTRIM’S GENERAL MANAGER

obbies Antrim is one of the newest and most exciting garden centre ventures in Northern Ireland. As those who have visited since it opened earlier this year will know, it combines more ‘traditional’ aspects of garden centre retail (ie, plants) with recent innovations such as a vibrant food and catering offer, to fantastic effect. It’s location meanwhile also makes it something of a must-visit for anyone in the area, with County Antrim featuring historic/natural landmarks such as Carrickfergus and the Giant’s Causeway. The site itself meanwhile, covers a whopping 110,000sq ft. Its parent company clearly has high hopes for the venture, and with good reason. Speaking in a statement to coincide with its opening in October, a spokesperson said: “This is the largest store in Dobbies’ UK portfolio. gardencentreretail.com

[It features] outdoor and indoor plant areas, gardening products, seasonal items and pet, gift and toy departments.” Add to this a cookshop, food hall, home décor section and a “new restaurant and coffee shop, serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.” Small beginnings As with all high-profile new ventures, Dobbies Antrim required a steady hand to get it off the ground. Step forward Ken Ferguson, who was appointed as the site’s general manager following around 13 years with the wider company. Discussing his background, both inside and outside the business, he says: “My garden centre career began when I first became

aware of Dobbies back in 2010. The brand announced the opening of its Lisburn store near where I was living at the time, and which was the company’s first store in Northern Ireland.” He continues: “I come from a retail background and previously held roles at both Sainsbury’s and Marks and Spencer. When I heard about Dobbies and the concept, I knew the experience was going to be very different to the typical independent garden centre that Northern Ireland was used to. “I was keen to play my part and got in touch with the Dobbies team to show my interest. I interviewed and was actually appointed as general manager of the store in Aberdeen, Scotland, which is a very similar build to what was to come in Lisburn.”

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Features

According to Ken, he remained at Aberdeen for eight years, six years longer than he originally intended. This – perfectly reasonably – was because he was having such a “fantastic time.” However, in 2018 he finally made it back to Northern Ireland to become general manager of the Lisburn site which caught his attention in the first place. As mentioned, Antrim is not only the newest but also the biggest store across the whole of the Dobbies portfolio. The wider business itself however dates back to the mid-19th century when James Dobbie established a seed business (Dobbie & Co) in Renfrow, Scotland. The company expanded into England in 1969 meanwhile, operating – according to a well-known online encyclopedia – principally as a seed merchant all the way up until 1984. It opened the Lisburn site in 2010.

Bringing the story up to the present day, Ken says: “We are now the UK’s largest garden centre retailer with 77 stores. The company employs around 4,000 team members across the country. “The opening of Dobbies Antrim was highly anticipated and has made a massive impact already at The Junction [retail and leisure park] where it’s situated, and across the Antrim community. In our first month of opening, footfall increased at The Junction by 125 per cent, compared to the same period last year.” Focusing in particular on the food hall, Ken indicates a specific focus on provenance, with a supplier called Musgrave Northern Ireland providing a “specifically curated range.” This features “fantastic local brands” such as Signature Tastes, Donnybrook Fair, The Happy Pear, and Frank and Honest Gourmet Coffee.

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Needless to say, the new store has also opened just in time to take advantage of the Christmas season. With that in mind, the seasonal offer will be made up of “Dobbies’ full festive product range,” as well as events including Santa’s Grotto and ‘Santa’s Breakfast’. New challenges The opening of any new site is bound to bring its own set of challenges, not least putting operational processes in place. With something like Dobbies Antrim meanwhile – which as mentioned is part of a long-established chain – there is also the problem of forging a unique identity while staying suitably ‘familiar’. Beginning with the operational piece, Ken says the challenge was apparent before the store even opened, with 107 out of 110 staff members entirely new to Dobbies. Many were, according

gardencentreretail.com

personal development and first aid. They have, in Ken’s words, helped staff “excel in what has been a really fast-paced environment,” while also specialising in work across specific areas of the store. He says: “Dobbies Antrim created 120 new jobs, making it one of the largest employers within the Antrim and Newtownabbey borough. Positions include roles across management, customer service, operations, the warehouse and the restaurant. That includes a mixture of part time and full-time employees.” Once staff were in place, it’s necessary to move the business forward as quickly and efficiently as possible. Key to this, and to the identity of the store itself, was integrating it into the life of the community as a whole, something which is becoming increasingly important to garden centres across the UK.

Discussing this, Ken says: “We’re really excited to be a part of the Antrim community and have already been working closely on a number of partnerships that are really important to grow our presence. “Community collaboration is central to the Dobbies’ brand, and we have been lucky to have the support of like-minded partners in The Junction and Musgraves, to help us embed.” One element of this community partnership which Ken is particularly enthusiastic about is its work with the local Riverside School. This is a special educational establishment, for pupils aged between three and 19, based in Antrim itself. “Outdoor play and learning play a big role at Riverside,” says Ken. “We therefore felt that it was a perfect fit for our store, which includes indoor and outdoor gardening products, and outdoor furniture.

COMMUNITY COLLABORATION IS CENTRAL TO THE DOBBIES’ BRAND gardencentreretail.com

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Features

to him, also “completely new to the garden centre industry as a whole” Discussing how these issues were addressed, he says: “Before we opened the doors on the first day, there was only so much hands-on, operational experience we could give. So, there was considerable work to be done to fill this huge number of roles, while at the same time getting everyone up to speed. “To assist with the recruitment process we worked alongside Workforce and Antrim and Newtonabbey Council to develop two one-week employment academies. These were designed to equip participants with the skills and confidence to successfully secure a new role. From the two initial academies, 12 participants [started work] at the Antrim store.” The academies apparently offered training in customer service, as well as ‘employability’,

Features

“Through our collaboration with The Junction, we are also proud to be supporting Women’s Aid Northern Ireland.” Another important aspect of community engagement meanwhile is becoming involved in ongoing conversations around sustainability, something else which is increasingly integral to the identity of garden centres across the country. Ken insists that Dobbies’ role is to lead on this, a commitment which was demonstrated last year when the business went entirely peat free in its bagged compost range. Of course, all of this counts for nothing if you can’t get the customers through the doors in the first place, with marketing and brand management another key piece of the puzzle when it comes to opening a new store. With that in mind, a key part of the effort to get people in – both local residents and visitors – has been to emphasise the location. “Since opening our doors, we have attracted a wide variety of different customers to Dobbies Antrim “We know people have been travelling to visit us, which is really positive to hear. “On the weekend, we welcome a lot of families, and our ‘Little Seedlings’ soft play area has been really well received, as well as our cafe and restaurant. The layout of the store means our bedding plants and horticulture offering is really visible, and it has been wonderful to see younger generations take an active interest in plants and gardening when visiting us.” Staying on the subject of Little Seedlings, Ken also talks about how pleased he is that the initiative has its own ambassador (named Hannah), and also that there are plans to expand beyond just simply a play area. At the centre of this is a workshop initiative, which is intended to provide gardening ideas for children. Discussing Dobbies Antrim from a geographical perspective meanwhile, Ken says: “We are in a great location, which gives us a mix of customers throughout the week. We see a lot of stops from visitors who are travelling from Belfast up to the North Coast, and we are also near the international airport. As we settle into the store, we are working closely with the team at The Junction, and our partners. We want to ensure that we grow to understand our customers, and therefore can market to them effectively.” Dobbies is a vital part of the garden centre landscape in Northern Ireland. It will be interesting to see how it grows from here. 20

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

gardencentreretail.com

WE CONNECT GENERATIONS ABOUT US Talen Tools is a manufacturer and supplier of tools for farmers, gardeners, construction workers and garden enthusiasts. Our range is particularly extensive and also includes wooden handles in all shapes and sizes. Our range includes axes, shovels, spades, brooms, pruning tools, rakes and hoes. In short, everything for gardening. HISTORY in 1919 the great-grandfather of the current management started sawing and planing wooden handles for the scythes and hay rakes of the many farmers in his area. In the 1980s, the company also started to focus on a high quality range of garden tools for garden centers and hardware stores.

r a video Scan QR codeofour company! impression of

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:

WWW.TALENTOOLS.NL

Features

Considering

CONCESSIONS? WE EXPLORE THE PROS, CONS AND ADDITIONAL FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN INCORPORATING CONCESSIONS INTO YOUR GARDEN CENTRES

he UK is home to approximately 1,600 garden centres and nurseries, which collectively generate a retail expenditure of approximately £7.5bn per year (HTA, The economic impact of ornamental horticulture in the UK report, 2018). Despite the current economic challenges, the garden centre market shows long-term resilience and is projected to experience further growth in the coming years, and this is due to diversification and expansion of its product offering. Garden centre concessions have become increasingly popular, offering a range of benefits and drawbacks for both garden centre owners and customers. We explore the pros and cons of garden centre concessions, helping retailers to make an informed decision when considering whether to embrace the concessions business model. 22

Pros of concessions Garden retail now goes beyond traditional centres that only sell plants, offering a variety of products and experiences. These include cafes and restaurants, garden furniture, farm shops, pet supplies, aquatics, children’s soft play areas, and retail concessions. The consumer experience provided by this market surpasses traditional garden centres, so what are the benefits of having concession brands in your store? Increased revenue streams: One of the major advantages of garden centre concessions is the potential for increased revenue streams. By allowing third-party vendors to operate in your garden centre, you can diversify product offerings and attract a wider customer base. Enhanced customer experience: With the rise in online shopping, retailers must enhance their physical stores to attract customers.

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Today, customers have higher expectations from brands, seeking engaging and exclusive experiences that cannot be replicated online. Expertise and specialist knowledge: When you introduce garden centre concessions, some come with a pool of experts and specialists. This can help establish your garden centre as a trusted source of information and products. Reduced inventory risk: You can reduce the risk associated with excessive inventory. Instead of solely relying on your stock, you can leverage the inventory held by vendors. Cost-sharing benefits: Partnering with concessions can result in cost-sharing benefits, such as reducing utilities and rent expenses. Cons of concessions Potential loss of control: Introducing concessions means sharing your space and control with gardencentreretail.com

IT’S CRUCIAL TO ESTABLISH CLEAR GUIDELINES AND EXPECTATIONS TO MAINTAIN CONSISTENCY Floor space: Concessions come in various sizes, ranging from small, unmanned retail display units to large areas for a well-known brand. Either way, the concession requires a defined space, which some smaller centres cannot fulfil. Stores that have a smaller footprint may encounter

gardencentreretail.com

difficulties in providing essential services like water, gas, electricity, loading, and staffing according to the needs of the concession. Higher administrative burden: Running garden centre concessions requires additional administration. Garden centre views With garden centres’ core offering of plants and sundries a seasonal affair, some retailers are acutely aware of the need to be able to quickly adapt to diverse offerings out of peak trading times. The UK’s largest family-run garden centre group, British Garden Centres, has four different types of concessions across its 62 stores as property director, David Lazenby, explains: “The concessions across our centres can be broken down into traditional manned concessions which have a lease on a dedicated area in a centre and pay a set or turnover based rent, such as Maidenhead Aquatics or a car wash operator. “BGC also operates through till concessions, where the partner has an agreement to use an area of space to sell their products, but this goes through our tills and the concession partner invoices back less a commission amount. Our colleagues will be responsible for keeping the

area tidy. We also host alternative concessions which fill a space, pay rent and can have benefits for the sites. Examples of this are electric car charging points, storage, postal lockers, and phone masts. “Finally, we have short-term concessions in store which include temporary promotion stands and other short-term occupiers, such as will writing, charity stands and weekend bakery.” Concessions have proved to also be beneficial to Burleydam Garden Centre, which has Pavers Shoes and Klass Clothing in store. Director, Sally Cornelissen, tells us: “We decided to add concessions due to our own clothing/footwear offer becoming less viable due to rapidly increasing wage costs and the cost prices of our shoes increasing. Buying the seasonal shoe ranges was also challenging as our buying power only allowed us to buy one collection per season so we either had too little or too much of certain lines. We were also aware of the mutual benefit of having wellknown brands, which would drive footfall to us.” Sally continues: “If I were to offer advice to a business looking to take concessions on board, I would suggest doing your homework in researching and choosing those that will

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Features

third-party vendors. It’s crucial to establish guidelines and expectations to maintain consistency and ensure customer satisfaction. Brand dilution: With multiple vendors operating within your garden centre, there is a risk of brand dilution. If the concessions’ brands overpower your own, it can lead to confusion among customers, weakening your own brand identity and may directly compete. Increased complexity: Coordinating with multiple vendors, ensuring product availability, and resolving conflicts can be time-consuming and challenging.

Features

complement your business and reflect your values. I would also advise against putting a lot of small concessions in – a few good-sized ones look more confident and professional. Make sure you have a good lawyer and ensure the heads of terms are completely correct before you draw up a detailed lease. My last bit of advice is to treat your concession staff as if they were part of your team. Go and chat with them and make sure they settle in.” Langlands has three garden centres across Yorkshire which have brands such as Edinburgh Woolen Mill, 3D Granite Transformations, Regatta and Atkinsons in two of its stores. These work on both a flat fee and commission basis. Cecilia Hall at Langlands tells us of the advantages and disadvantages they have found with partnerships: “As a fixed percentage of sales can vary from week to week, the monthly rental option is sometimes the more profitable option as it is a guaranteed return and doesn’t

fluctuate. Also, the staff man-hours for the commission concessions need to be taken into consideration as they are taken up with merchandising and customer enquiries. “By offering diverse services and products that cater to various interests and needs, garden centres can secure their position as the go-to destination for all things related to gardening and outdoor living. We find they offer a diversified shopping experience and appeal to potential customers who probably are not interested in visiting garden centres, but because of the concessions, they would become regular visitors and potential buyers.” Sarah Squire, chairman, of Squire’s Garden Centres, comments: “Concessions need careful thought and can affect brand reputation if product or service becomes poor. However, our approach is that we look at partnering with businesses that complement our offer and locations. Rather than operating

concessions across our whole business, we view opportunities on an individual centre-by-centre basis and take care to ensure our centres are not ‘over-concessioned’. “Examples which work well include local butchers in our two food halls (Frensham and Wokingham), Pets Corner and Malvern Garden Buildings at our Shepperton centre and an independent dog groomer at our Washington centre. These services or brands are a good match at their locations; they serve our customer base well providing additional reasons to visit.”

THEY SERVE OUR CUSTOMER BASE WELL PROVIDING ADDITIONAL REASONS TO VISIT Finding a complementary concession brand isn’t always easy. Helen MacDonald, owner of Merryhatton Garden Centre, says: “Floor area in our store is limited and, in our opinion, we can earn more per square metre of floor space under our management. We do review earnings per floor area regularly but have yet to be persuaded of the profitability and other business benefits a concession would bring.” This is something that is echoed by Blue Diamond as managing director, Alan Roper, explains: “Blue Diamond does not concession out indoor retail space except for a few sites which have more indoor retail space than we need. The indoor retail space of my centres would have to exceed 7,500m2 for me to consider including external concessions. “After staff costs, we make significantly more profit by working the space ourselves. I do welcome indoor retail concessions on our two retail parks, Bicester Avenue and Peterborough, where we have separate retail units.” Laura Jackson, director at Swarkestone Nursery, also tells us: “We don’t currently have any concessions on site. We just don’t have the right infrastructure as we retail out of a glasshouse. Concessions aren’t something we have ruled out for the future. When or if our infrastructure changes, we are open to the idea.”

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

gardencentreretail.com

Features

The secret to

EFFECTIVE retail security

GAIN INSIGHTS FROM SECURITY COMPANY GCS’ DIRECTOR, JEREMY DAVIES, ON STRATEGIES TO MITIGATE SHRINKAGE IN GARDEN CENTRES

recent BRC Crime survey shows that £953m was lost to customer theft in retail last year. With losses nearly doubling from 2017 and an increase of incidents to eight million, shoplifting is clearly on the rise and is a real issue for retail outlets. Garden Centre Retail speaks with Jeremy Davies, director of specialist garden centre security company GCS (GB) Ltd to find out how garden centres can reduce the risk of shrinkage. Loss prevention isn’t always high on the priority list for garden retailers. Unlike high-street retailers, this sector seems not to have a loss prevention culture and as a result, can be a softer target for thieves, directly impacting business profits. Garden centres are currently seen as an easy target for shoplifting, and speaking from experience in both areas, Jeremy believes the loss prevention strategies and methods employed in national retail could be used to great effect in the garden centre sector. Retailers on the high street are now discussing loss prevention at board level and give preventing crime similar priority as business performance, staffing and product availability. Whilst there are a few larger garden centre companies taking this approach, they may well be in the minority. Taking a leaf out of the national retailer loss prevention strategy book, garden centres can implement simple yet effective measures to proactively safeguard their businesses against shrinkage.

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

gardencentreretail.com

Staff training Investing in staff loss prevention training is an oftenoverlooked loss prevention tactic. By

motivating and empowering your team to act, and by giving them training on what to do if they spot a potential shoplifter, you’ll then have full buy-in from your team. There are several telltale signs of a shoplifter. Things like overcoats worn in warm weather, unzipped bags or holdalls and bulging shopping bags may be more obvious, but other signs include people looking at you as a member of staff, hanging about in blind spots or having people in close proximity acting as shields. Investing in low-cost, professionallyrun, loss prevention training can pay dividends and prevent a simple shoplifting occurrence turning into an incident. Good customer service is also a deterrent for shoplifters. Employing a 10-foot rule – saying hello to customers within 10 feet of you – can let potential shoplifters know that they have been noticed and can stop the act from taking place. Staff aren’t security guards, but they can play a role in the proactive solution to theft.

Features

How retailers can help themselves: Security strategy Seeing security in a similar light as an insurance policy helps understand the importance to protect against potential losses, rather than wait until after the event to invest in security. It is always more effective to prevent theft than be reactive to it. Garden centres should formalise a security strategy which will make the store a harder target for thieves, which in turn will reduce the number of undesirables in the shop, and result in less theft, abuse or violence directed towards staff. A good security strategy doesn’t need to be complex. With this formalised, it can be discussed and measured with team leaders during monthly meetings and could include points on staff awareness, observations, addressing basic issues and working towards the safety of the store.

Signs to look out for when spotting shoplifters: •O vercoats worn in warm weather •R aincoats worn on dry days • Customers looking at you • Unzipped bags and holdalls • Bulging shopping bags • Umbrellas on dry days • People hanging about in blinds spots and at the entrances • People making startled movements • People standing as a possible shield Security tagging and tagging policy All major retailers make it harder for thieves to steal by protecting key products with security tags which are removed at the till as part of the purchase process. With roughly £2-3k spent on a security tag system per entrance to a garden centre, this could be the biggest deterrent to potential shoplifting, saving thousands on product loss per year.

STAFF LOSS PREVENTION TRAINING IS AN OFTEN-OVERLOOKED LOSS PREVENTION TACTIC

gardencentreretail.com

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Features Most stolen items from a garden centre • Seeds • Gifts (candles, cards, jewellery) • Water products (pumps, hose attachments) • Hand tools (secateurs, etc.) • Clothing and gloves

It is estimated that garden centres currently lose around 2-3% of their turnover at sales price, which, with a security tagging system, can be easily cut in half – resulting in a significant saving.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING FOR SECURITY IS CONSISTENCY A good tagging system should be supported by a strong tagging policy. This should be in the form of a written document, identifying which product categories to tag and specifying which tags to use. 28

CCTV A common theft deterrent, CCTV should be deployed at key areas of the store, including entrance and exits, tills and the cash office, as well as areas of your store that aren’t under constant monitoring by staff members. It’s important to ensure the recorded images can be reviewed and are high quality, and as the cost of a good CCTV system has reduced recently, CCTV is a popular loss prevention tool. A security specialist, such as GCS (GB), will be able to talk you through the best options. The most important thing for security is consistency. Make sure you have monthly loss prevention reviews with key store personnel, and resolve any issues that crop up as soon as possible, whether that’s faulty equipment or moving a camera. Ensure all processes are followed and keep reiterating the key points of the strategy to all

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

staff members, empowering them to take action when a situation approaches. Remember, there is no such thing as a typical shoplifter, everyone has the potential to be a thief, so be indiscriminate. Most of all, instilling a loss-prevention culture in your store will help your business become resilient to any shoplifting attempts. About GCS (GB) Ltd GCS is a national retail security company that specialises in retail loss prevention in garden centres and product protection. It offers loss prevention staff training, security tagging and CCTV systems. With over 25 years in the loss prevention industry, the team at GCS focus on providing exceptional service and leading edge to all sizes of company. gcsgb.com customer.service@gcsgb.com 01892 300878

gardencentreretail.com

Compostable packaging and end of life solutions. Scan the QR code to upgrade your foodservice. info@vegware.com | vegware.com

@vegware

Features

Cooking up a

GREAT DESIGN

FUEL YOUR RESTAURANT’S SUCCESS WITH A WELL-PLANNED KITCHEN LAYOUT. DISCOVER YOUR IDEAL DESIGN HERE...

he kitchen is the heart of the restaurant. What comes out of it (and how quickly it comes out) makes or breaks the dining experience for customers. A commercial kitchen’s layout can determine how smoothly the restaurant functions. When the kitchen is designed strategically, it enables the back-of-house team to work efficiently and produce high-quality meals consistently. When the kitchen is put together haphazardly, it can become an obstacle. A successful commercial kitchen layout is easy to use, meets the restaurant’s needs and enables your service staff to deliver an amazing restaurant experience. 30

The key components of a commercial kitchen layout Before designing a commercial kitchen layout for your space, it’s important to account for the needs that the kitchen must fulfil, and the equipment associated with those needs. When you know what components need to fit into the space from the beginning of the design process, you will be able to design your restaurant kitchen layout more effectively.

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Storage Your restaurant’s kitchen will store a variety of items, including cooking tools (utensils, pans, etc.), food (produce, meats, dry goods), and place settings (glasses, plates, linens). Your kitchen will need separate storage units for each of these needs, such as a refrigerator for perishable foods, a pantry for dry goods and cupboards for place settings and tools.

A COMMERCIAL KITCHEN’S LAYOUT CAN DETERMINE HOW SMOOTHLY THE RESTAURANT FUNCTIONS gardencentreretail.com

Features

Washing station A lot of cleaning goes on in a commercial kitchen to ensure the safety of the food that’s being served and the dishes that it’s being served on. We recommend creating separate washing stations for food and for dishes so that dirty dish suds never land on clean produce. Your washing stations will need commercial dishwashing machines, sinks and drying racks to run smoothly. Food preparation A commercial kitchen may have several food preparation areas depending on what kind of food is on the menu. The food prep section of a restaurant’s kitchen consists of counter space, cutting tools and storage containers. Place food preparation zones near a refrigerator so that your team can quickly and safely store raw ingredients until they’re ready to be used. Cooking station Unless your restaurant’s concept is raw foods, your kitchen will need quite a bit of cooking equipment to execute your menu. Most restaurants have gas range-oven combinations, commercial fryers, and a few specialised cooking appliances. A kitchen display system makes it easy for staff to keep up with incoming tickets. Service A commercial kitchen’s service area is used for plating dishes and handing them off to servers to deliver to diners. A service area should have heat lamps to keep food warm. Place your kitchen’s service area as close to the dining room as possible to lessen the distance from the kitchen to the table for waiters. When you’re looking for the ideal commercial space for your restaurant, you need to actively assess the space’s potential. Which type of restaurant kitchen layout works best for your service type and the kitchen space? gardencentreretail.com

If you’re having issues pinpointing which kitchen layout will work best, consider hiring professionals to help you. Below, we’ve listed five kitchen layouts, along with their benefits and disadvantages. Five types of commercial kitchen layouts Now that you understand the components of a functional commercial kitchen and have thought about elements such as safety and ergonomics, it’s time to start designing your restaurant’s kitchen layout. Assembly line layout The assembly line configuration consists of a central row or island that starts with food prep and ends with a completed item that is ready to be taken to your guests. Benefits This commercial kitchen layout facilitates the production of lots of the same type of dish repeatedly. The assembly line works best with multiple cooks who are each responsible for one part of the food production process. This type of layout is ideal for quick service types restaurants that need fast output.

Disadvantages While the assembly line layout is built for speed, it might not be right for all restaurant types. Since it’s created for a linear preparation process and focused on repetition of specific actions, this layout type can limit the flexibility you have to change the menu. The focus on speed and efficiency can also lead to lower quality and lack of personalisation or creativity. Island layout The island commercial kitchen layout starts with the ring layout and adds a central preparation or cooking station. For example, a kitchen may have storage units, washing stations and food prep counters along its perimeter and cooking equipment in its centre. Benefits With a central ‘command centre’ or passthrough point for all meals, the island configuration facilitates staff communication and executive chef supervision. Disadvantages The island layout is a popular option for home kitchens. In a restaurant setting, however, it can pose some challenges. Without the linear assembly line layout, an island kitchen requires a bit of coordination and communication between food prep and cooking areas. This also might not work as well for smaller kitchens since the main island requires much more room.

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Features

Zone-style layout A zone-style layout creates separate stations for each type of activity that goes on in the kitchen or for each kind of dish that is prepared in it. For example, a restaurant could have a soup and salad station, meat station, frying station, and baking station. Benefits This commercial kitchen layout keeps the kitchen organised and allows different types of dishes to be prepared at the same time. This layout helps BOH staff divide and conquer. You can hire a specialised chef for each station rather than a line cook to create everything from start to finish. Disadvantages While great for specialised cooking, this type of layout can be much more expensive to set up. Each area or zone might require different types of specialised equipment and even things like ventilation. All of this can add up to higher initial costs, as well as energy and maintenance costs. The zone-style layout is also not suitable for all types of restaurants. Restaurants with smaller menus would not benefit from a complex multizone layout.

Restaurants with small kitchens should avoid the station-based configuration as it doesn’t allow for multitasking. You’ll need ample space and staff to make this type of kitchen function smoothly. Galley layout In this commercial kitchen layout, all stations and equipment are on the perimeter of the kitchen. In a very tight space, kitchen equipment is placed along only parallel two walls. This layout is mostly used in small commercial kitchen settings. Benefits If your kitchen is large enough to have a ring layout with empty space in the centre, you can have multiple cooks in the kitchen and they can easily rotate to work multiple stations at once. In a very small space, like a food truck, the galley kitchen is the only option the space allows. Disadvantages This type of kitchen is mostly used for smaller operations that have limited space. A galley layout doesn’t work for bigger restaurant operations. For parallel stations, the space can become too cramped, and it doesn’t allow for a high volume of food production. There’s limited

room for food prep and this can lead to longer wait times for customers. Open kitchen layout An open kitchen layout lets customers see the action that usually takes place behind the scenes. Any commercial kitchen layout can be turned into an open kitchen by taking down a wall. To ensure guest safety, it’s best to keep hot cooking appliances far away from customers. A glass partition between the service area and guest seating is also a smart choice to protect the food from unexpected sneezes or coughs. Benefits An open kitchen is great for entertaining guests. It is also a good opportunity to maximise a small space. You can create chef’s table seating by placing bar stools by the kitchen. Disadvantages While an open kitchen concept can add a unique industrial element, it comes with drawbacks. Loud noises and messes from hectic kitchens can create a distracting dining experience. Smells coming from the kitchen can also diminish the actual ambiance of the restaurant and the meal the customers are having.

A GALLEY LAYOUT DOESN’T WORK FOR BIGGER RESTAURANT OPERATIONS

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

gardencentreretail.com

Now is the time to recycle your food waste Bagging and binning is no longer the acceptable way, for your garden centre, customers and the planet. Fortunately, MEIKO GREEN Waste Solutions takes a no-nonsense approach to tackling it. We optimise both the environmental and economic aspects, covering everything from the recycling units to the collection tank.

BioMaster - the clever solution for food waste and food scraps A hygienic, economically and ecologically sensible solution for recycling food waste and scraps, converting them into environmentally friendly renewable energy. Used by all types of caterer, small, medium and large... worldwide.

BioMaster

BioMaster ensures a sustainable return for your waste, cuts collection costs, saves labour and floorspace To see how MEIKO can help your garden centre, visit www.meiko-uk.co.uk Email: info@meiko-uk.co.uk or call 01753 215120

meiko_waste_a4_2023_garden.indd 1

12/10/2023 15:11:01

Features

The Rise of

HOUSEPLANTS and Anticipated Trends for 2024

THE HORTI HOUSE DELVES INTO THE ANTICIPATED TRENDS THAT ARE POISED TO INFLUENCE THE HOUSEPLANT SECTOR IN 2024

he humble houseplant, once relegated to a quiet corner, has emerged as a central player in interior design and the home aesthetic. The surging popularity of houseplants reflects a wider societal shift toward sustainability, personal wellbeing, and a connection with nature, even within urban settings. With 2024 fast approaching, it’s time to turn our attention to the future trends of the houseplant sector. Here’s a closer look. The surge in houseplant popularity Over the last decade, houseplants have witnessed a resurgence in popularity, especially among millennials and Gen Z. The reasons are manifold. As urbanisation has increased, spaces have become more confined, making gardens a luxury. Houseplants offer an accessible way to bring nature indoors. Particularly during the pandemic era, where homes have become sanctuaries, workspaces, and recreational zones. People turned to plants as a source of comfort, peace, and an opportunity to reconnect with nature amidst the urban sprawl. Additionally, the awareness of the health benefits associated with plants – from air purification to 34

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

gardencentreretail.com

Trends in houseplant varieties for 2024 A rising trend in garden centres is the thoughtful pairing of plants with complementary pots, streamlining the buying experience for customers. Such pairings, like the elegant orchid nestled in a minimalist white ceramic pot or the striking calathea medallion presented in a rustic seagrass basket, not only enhance the plant’s aesthetic appeal but also offer an easy, ready-made gifting solution. These curated combinations cater to the preferences of today’s consumers, who appreciate simplicity and value. Whether it’s a gift for a loved one or an addition to one’s home, these plant and pot duos provide an effortless choice for those seeking convenience, beauty and function all in one. With an ever-growing consumer interest in houseplants, certain species are set to become household names in 2024. The fern family, for instance, is making a comeback. The Boston Fern (Nephrolepis Exaltata) with its graceful arching fronds is expected to be a favourite. Similarly, the delicate Maidanhair Fern (Adiantum) with its fan-like pattern will grace many homes. Here are some other trend predictions Strelitzia nicolai: Often referred to as the ‘Bird of Paradise’, the Strelitzia nicolai is known for its

gardencentreretail.com

impressive height and large, banana-like leaves. Its ability to bring a touch of the tropics indoors is what makes it unique. Its towering presence is able to transform any space into a lush, tropical oasis. Calathea Freddie: With its beautiful green and white striped leaves, the Calathea Freddie stands out for its understated elegance. What sets it apart is its adaptability to lower light conditions and its pet-friendly nature. The rhythmic opening and closing of its leaves, often referred to as the ‘Calathea dance’, adds a dynamic touch to interiors, making it a captivating choice for plant enthusiasts. Philodendron Zebra: The Philodendron Zebra is an eye-catching houseplant with vibrant green leaves streaked with white or light yellow, mirroring a zebra’s stripes. This unique variegation distinguishes it from other philodendrons, making it a standout choice for interiors and a favorite among plant enthusiasts. Houseplant hardware trends for 2024 Spring 2024 is expected to embrace an enchanting combination of the old and the new. As homes become an extension of personal narratives, vintage is back with a vengeance. The interiors will boast of striped ceramics juxtaposed against decorative fluted glass and hand-painted porcelain decals reminiscent of bygone eras. Be ready for a sensory delight with scalloped edges, beading, and ditsy prints taking centre stage. With inspiration being drawn from the quaint charm of boutique hotels

to the vibrant aura of Parisian cafés, the flea market aesthetic is gaining ground. Patterns like ginghams and windowpane grids will be omnipresent, transcending the seasonal trends to find a more permanent place in homes. As for the metals, brushed brass will reign supreme, accompanied by intricately embossed detailing on hardware pieces. As the temperature rises, summer 2024 will whisk us away to the balmy ambience

A RISING TREND IN GARDEN CENTRES IS THE THOUGHTFUL PAIRING OF PLANTS WITH COMPLEMENTARY POTS Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Features

mental wellbeing – has significantly contributed to their renewed appeal. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram and Pinterest, have amplified the allure. Houseplant communities have burgeoned online, where plant parents proudly display their green wards and share care tips. The narrative is clear – houseplants are not just decor; they are a lifestyle.

Features

of Northern Africa. Artisanal, hand-thrown ceramics will continue to enthrall homeowners, a nod to the popularity they’ve enjoyed in previous seasons. The magic lies in the combinations – imagine glossy glazes paired with raw, sand-blasted clay or the intrigue of smooth finishes adorned with thick, basket-like fringes. The colour palette will predominantly be neutral and earthy, interspersed with bursts of sunny yellows and deep cerulean blues, offering a contemporary spin to traditional aesthetics. In conclusion, as we approach 2024, it’s evident that the love affair with houseplants is far from over. With a blend of vintage and contemporary trends in houseplant hardware and a diverse range of plant varieties set to take the spotlight, it promises to be an exciting year for the garden centre sector and indoor plant enthusiasts. The fusion of past aesthetics with modern designs and an enriched understanding of plant varieties offers a fresh perspective, making it an exciting time for garden centres to elevate their houseplant merchandising displays. About The Horti House The Horti House is a collective of British growers championing the cause of sustainable, locally sourced houseplants. With a strong commitment to promoting British, peat-free plants, they aim to set a new industry standard. While importing plants from abroad can be a complicated, expensive, and a less sustainable choice, The Horti House simplifies the process by endorsing local growers and making it easy for UK businesses, such as garden centres, florists, and hospitality businesses to buy British houseplants at competitive prices. thehortihouse.co.uk

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

gardencentreretail.com

15 - 16 October 2024 | ExCeL London

The event for business growth in the garden retail sector

For ster ets i g e R Tick Free

2024 speakers include...

Alan Roper

Hannah Powell

Mark Farnsworth

Peter Burks

Blue Diamond

Perrywood

Yorkshire Garden Centres

The Garden Centre Association

Products

BRIGHT IDEAS

BRIGHTEN UP YOUR CENTRE’S LAYOUT WITH THE COUNTRY CANDLE CO ON DISPLAY

etail excellence is a concept deeply ingrained in the DNA of The Country Candle Co, but it’s something we don’t often talk about. As a rapidly growing lifestyle home fragrance brand, we recently faced the challenge of identifying what truly sets us apart, what makes customers want to partner with us, and what exactly is our USP. One answer that stood out was our commitment to curating retail excellence. Let’s delve a bit deeper into this notion. Yes, we take pride in manufacturing our beautifully British fragranced products, and we ensure they’re best in class in terms of fragrance strength and burn quality. However, our value to our retail clients goes beyond the products themselves. We believe in going the extra mile, digging deeper to gain a much greater understanding of what your specific consumer base desires and what they’re purchasing in your store. This understanding allows us to curate and offer a collection that maximises return on investment, both in terms of physical shelf space and monetary gains.

Merchandising tips and tricks Merchandising is an art, and it’s a key element in creating a captivating shopping experience. Here are some essential tips and tricks that can help garden centre owners, managers, visual merchandisers, and buyers make the most of their candle and home fragrance displays: Thematic displays: Create thematic displays that evoke different moods and seasons.

OUR VALUE TO OUR RETAIL CLIENTS GOES BEYOND THE PRODUCTS THEMSELVES Showcase cozy winter scents with warm, earthy tones during the colder months and switch to fresh, floral fragrances with vibrant colours in spring and summer. Thematic displays engage customers’ emotions and inspire exploration. 38

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

gardencentreretail.com

Height and lighting Utilise height variations with shelves, risers, and stands to create a visual hierarchy. Soft and warm lighting can set the mood and highlight specific products. Lighting will enhance the sensory experience and will therefore guide customers’ attention to your candle and fragrance offerings.

gardencentreretail.com

Cross-merchandising Pair candles and home fragrances with complementary items. Creating a harmonious shopping experience that combines fragrance with other products enhances sales and provides customers with ideas for creating a more appealing environment. Seasonal trends Keep your displays fresh by highlighting seasonal trends. Highlight limitededition scents that are only available certain times of the year. This keeps your product offerings exciting and encourages repeat visits. In the world of retail, it’s not just about offering products; it’s about crafting an experience that resonates with your customers and sets you apart from the competition. At The Country

Candle Co, we understand that our role doesn’t end with delivering high-quality products. It begins there, with the understanding that our retail partners deserve a partner who takes the time to comprehend their unique clientele and tailor offerings that cater to their preferences. So, what’s our USP? It’s the commitment to curate retail excellence, to provide more than just products, and to create a shopping experience that customers remember and cherish. As we look ahead to 2024, we are excited to offer fresh inspiration for your home fragrance and gifting department. If you are seeking ways to enhance your offerings, we are here to help!

About The Country Candle Co. At The Country Candle Co., we believe that the essence of retail excellence lies in the details, the dedication, and the desire to create something exceptional. We’d love to be your partner on this journey to curating retail excellence that keeps customers coming back for more. thecountrycandlecompany.com

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Products

Visual lines and clusters When it comes to selling volume as quick pick-up lines, ensure that merchandise is neatly arranged by product type or in fragrance clusters. Avoid stacking products more than two high, as this can create clutter and confusion. This organised approach not only makes it easier for customers to locate products but also enhances the overall aesthetics of your displays.

Products

Candles and Home Fragrance AWAKEN YOUR SENSES THIS WINTER WITH THE INDULGENT ALLURE OF THESE LUXURIOUS CANDLE PRODUCTS The Enchanted Woodland collection The Country Candle Company Our Enchanted Woodland Collection encapsulates the very essence of Christmas. Let your imagination and senses flow with our collection of six fabulously festive fragrances. RRP From £6.50 to £34.99 thecountrycandlecompany.com

Freckleface & RHS Heritage Range Freckleface Home Fragrance The RHS Heritage Range is elegantly timeless and brings you four traditional true to nature scents, all based on the seasons of an English Garden. The Autumnal Warm Spice fragrance is a heady mix of ripe fruits and spices with a smoky undertone. Available as a room spray, candle, fragrance oil and reed diffuser. RRP From £10 frecklefacehomefragrance.com

Mushroom shaped oil and wax burner Something Different Wholesale This mushroom burner is an eye-catching décor piece. The intricate design brings an aura of mystery and wonder into any space. Simply remove the lid, place wax melts or diluted fragrance oils in the dish and light a standard tealight underneath. RRP £9.99 somethingdifferentwholesale.co.uk

Trio candle box set ‘Scents of Scotland’ Sofasoy Candle Co Bring the essence of Scotland into your home. This box set includes three votive sized candles in fragrances that will transport you to walking through storybook forests of the Scottish highlands. Each candle gives a burn time of 15-18 hours. Fragrances include famous Wild Gorse, Scottish Bluebell and Woodland Pine. RRP £25 sofasoycandles.com

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Cedar Bloom Candles Bloom Limited Candles Bloom scented candles are hand made with natural rapeseed and coconut wax. It uses eco-friendly wax, free from palm, soy, beeswax, paraffin, polymers, GMO material and is crueltyfree, Kosher, Halal and vegan friendly. RRP £17 candlesbloom.com

Scentra Candle Warmer lamp Made by Zen The Scentra Candle Warmer is an ingenious solution for scenting your home. Effortlessly melting wax without the need for a flame, Scentra envelopes your space in exquisite fragrance. Customise the scent intensity with a dimmer switch, and create a serene and zen-like ambience with this safe and efficient addition to your home. RRP £55 madebyzen.com

Bergamot & Nettle craft candle St. Eval Nestled on a farm in North Cornwall, St. Eval sustainably crafts candles and home fragrance with people and the planet at its heart. A certified B Corp, St. Eval are pioneers of quality with a desire to drive high standards and sustainability for a brighter more balanced world. Its signature Scented Tin Candle Collection is home to an evocative range of scents and boasts a fantastic burn time of up to 45 hours each. RRP £13.85 st-eval.com

gardencentreretail.com

Strulch was developed at Leeds University by Dr Geoff Whiteley. It is made from wheat straw, is an earthy brown colour has a neutral pH and lasts on the surface for up to two years. Strulch stops weeds germinating by blocking light, retains moisture in the soil and the added minerals and texture deters slugs and snails. 13.5kg bags of Strulch are available on pallets of 12, 25, 40 and 48 bags. Delivered within 4 working days. Trade discounts available

www.strulch.co.uk

01943 863610

info@strulch.co.uk

Brighten your business, lighten your expenses Be up to 80% more efficient when you upgrade your lighting to LED’s WHY TLW GLOBAL: • Energy efficiency • Cost saving • Reduced maintenance • Environmentally friendly INNOVATIVE LIGHTING SOLUTIONS

Save and buy direct from the manufacturer +44 (0)1302 741941 • sales@tlwglobal.com • tlwglobal.com TLW Global, Brunel House, Brunel Close, Harworth, Doncaster, DN11 8QA

Products

The art of product PRESENTATION

WITH OVER 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, UK LIFESTYLE PRODUCTS COMPANY IVYLINE IMPARTS INSIGHTS INTO EFFECTIVE IN-STORE SALES TECHNIQUES

n the dynamic landscape of retail, where online shopping competes with brickand-mortar stores, the significance of in-store product merchandising has never been more pronounced. While the digital realm provides convenience and efficiency, the physical store remains an irreplaceable arena for immersive and tangible consumer experiences. An essential aspect of retail, it’s no secret that effective and creative merchandising can increase sales, improve customer satisfaction, and enhance the overall shopping experience for your customers. From creating visually arresting displays to strategic product placement, each element contributes to shaping the customer’s journey within the store.

Here are our top five tips to enhance your instore product merchandising:

1. Create eye-catching displays Offering an abundance of plants, along with a variety of pots, accessories, garden furniture, and a diverse selection of gifts and sundries, garden centres are serving as destination spots in their own right. With a surge in foot traffic, retailers can capitalise on the power of social media by getting customers to share their eyecatching displays online.

and interactive sections can encourage impulse purchases as customers “shop the look”. By showcasing vibrant displays, exclusive promotions, and gardening tips online, garden centres encouraging user-generated content through social media can foster a sense of community. The combination of increased footfall and an expanded social media following presents a golden opportunity for garden centres to not just elevate their sales figures but also cultivate lasting connections with a diverse customer base.

Garden centres have a unique opportunity to harness the power of increased footfall and a burgeoning social media following to substantially boost sales. Creating visually appealing displays

2. Use colour and contrast Colour is an effective tool for drawing attention to your products. By organising products based

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

gardencentreretail.com

Products on complementary or contrasting hues, retailers can create dynamic and eye-catching displays. Colour blocking not only adds an aesthetic appeal to the overall presentation but also aids in categorising and highlighting specific product lines. The arrangement of products in coordinated colour schemes helps guide customers through the store, simplifying the decision-making process and enhancing the overall shopping experience. The black Ivyline back-wall shelving units are a great way of making products stand out and act as the perfect backdrop to pot collections and themes.

3. Implement strategic product placement Place high-demand or new products at eye level on shelving to ensure they are easily noticed by customers (aka the “golden zone”). Use signage and point-of-sale displays for promotions to showcase complementary items and product features. These areas are highly visible and can influence last-minute purchases. Clear and concise signage is essential for guiding customers and providing information about products, prices and promotions. By placing displays, such as free standing display units, in areas of high footfall like gardencentreretail.com

corridors, entryways and checkouts, you can utilise space and increase opportunities for customers to make impulse purchases.

4. Maintain a clean and organised environment Keep shelves tidy, well organised and well stocked to make it easy for customers to find what they’re looking for. An organised store creates a positive shopping experience, and by regularly checking/restocking shelves to avoid empty spaces, every customer will have the same experience in your store. Ensure that products are facing forwards, and labels are easily readable, as well as related products being grouped together to encourage cross-selling. For example, place plants, pots and accessories together, or guide customers through sections that naturally lead to other complementary items using signage or paths.

5. Keep it fresh Finally, make sure to regularly update your displays to keep them fresh and engaging, utilising the seasons, holidays and awareness days to theme your displays.

Rotate products or displays every few weeks to keep customers coming back and to showcase new inventory. By theming your displays around the time of year, customers are more likely to feel inspired to become repeat customers at your centre, as they refresh their own homes and gardens in line with you. By investing in product merchandising, shops can create a visually appealing environment that maximizes sales and creates a positive impression on customers.

About Ivyline Founded in 1976, Ivyline has dedicated itself to making functional products beautiful, bringing elements of luxury to your home and garden. With an ethical product range, designed with love in its UK studio, the collections comprise everything from fire pits and candles to planters, indoor and outdoor plant pots and everything in between. If you would like to take advantage of its merchandising service, or would like some advice on merchandising in your store, get in touch with the team. sales@ivylinegb.co.uk 024 7633 9180

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Products

Products Pots and Planters A VARIETY OF POT OPTIONS FOR DISCERNING CUSTOMERS Planter ball Groove 13x12 textile black Capi Europe This black pot is made with textile, giving it a cool black color. This way old clothes don’t have to be burned but get a new life. The pots are also available in green and white. This pot is 100% waterproof, making it suitable for indoor use. By drilling a hole in it, it is also perfect for outside. The pot is fractureresistant and comes with a lifetime warranty. RRP £6.99 capi-europe.com

Nova Wax Relief Green Planter Ivyline Finished with a premium glaze and crafted using the exclusive wax relief method to create striking striped details, this planter has been handmade to absolute perfection. Made by artisans in Europe to reduce our carbon footprint, this striped ceramic houseplant pot will instantly update your living space, making it picture perfect. RRP £29.99 ivylinegb.co.uk

Tierra Verde Alto planter Primeur Simple lines create the all-new Alto design, a timeless planter perfect for the contemporary aesthetic. Available in slate, complete with built-in watering system. 38(h) x 35(w) cm. Made from 100% scrap tyres – making them lightweight, UV and frost resistant, plant safe, crack proof and all round better for the environment, home and garden. RRP £79.99 primeur.co.uk

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Monumental Pot collection Bergs Potter The large Københavner and Flora are impressive planters that have been elevated to previously unseen scales. Available in 50, 60, and 70cm diameters, with matching watertight saucers designed to support the massive weight of the planters. All are suitable for the changing seasons outdoors and indoors and will house large plants for life. RRP 50L: £390; 115L: £730; 130L: £780 bergspotter.com

VegTub VegTrug Ltd The corrugated steel planter is a perfect, durable planter for all kinds of growing. With multiple ways to build it, the VegTub can fill little plots or big allotments. The extratall 45cm height gives you ample depth for long roots in a no-dig bed. With double-sided powder coating and entirely stainless-steel fittings for nextlevel toughness, the VegTub will weather anything. RRP £199.99 vegtrug.com

gardencentreretail.com

Products Tierra Verde Whiskey Barrel planter Primeur A unique and stylish way to add rustic charm to any indoor or outdoor planting scheme, the Whiskey Barrel joins Primeur line-up ahead of the 2024 season. Classic and timeless. 38(h) x 54(w) cm. Made from 100% scrap tyres – making them lightweight, UV and frost resistant, plant safe, crack proof and all round better for the environment, home and garden. RRP £99.99 primeur.co.uk

coffee collection elho Creating beauty from waste, each pot in elho’s new coffee collection is made from at least three cups of coffee waste, giving the grounds a new lease of life while providing the perfect home for any plant. Each pot features a rich, dark espresso colour and unique texture, and it is even possible to detect the light fragrance of a fresh cup of coffee. Available in sizes 14cm to 22cm. RRP From £6.49 to £13.99 elho.com

jazz round range elho Designed to evoke positivity and bring joy, just like jazz music, elho’s new jazz round range provides a stylish way for houseplant enthusiasts to display their collection. Featuring a trendy natural texture and available in four vibrant colours – silky white, Tuscan red, amber yellow and lavender lilac – there is a shade to suit every individual taste and interior. Available in five sizes from 14cm to 26cm. RRP From £5.99 elho.com

Apta Lightweight - Beton Apta Beton, meaning ‘concrete’, sees this new collection benefit from a hyper-realistic finish that looks just like concrete. Available in three neutral colours – black, grey and sand – plus four styles to choose from. Made from recycled material and 100% recyclable at the end of their lifespan. UV and frost resistance, lightweight making them suitable for use both in the home and out in the garden, with the option to drill drainage holes. Complete with a 10-year guarantee RRP £24.99 to £74.99 apta.co.uk

Apta Lightweight - Weben Apta Weben, meaning ‘weave’, sees this collection benefit from a hyper-realistic finish that echoes traditional woven planters but is remastered as woven-effect concrete. Available in three neutral colours – black, grey and sand – plus three styles to choose from. Made from recycled material and 100% recyclable at the end of their lifespan. UV and frost resistance, lightweight making them suitable for use both in the home and out in the garden, with the option to drill drainage holes. Complete with a 10-year guarantee RRP £19.99 to £74.99 apta.co.uk

gardencentreretail.com

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

The

Perfect gift at Christmas! Squeeze to play melody:

Walking in the Air

The SnowmanTM Musical Toy

See our produc

ts on our website w w w.rainb

The SnowmanTM Bean Toy

ow d e

o. u k s i g n s .c

The Snowdog Bean Toy

e m a i l s a le s

@ ra i n b o w d e s i g n s . c o . u k

inspiring kids’ imaginations for 50 years

Baytree Living Startup Package All Products Pictured – 18 In Total

TOTAL £556.30 EX. VAT! Tel – 07712676545 Email – sales@baytreeliving.com

www.baytreeliving.com

Baytree Living is a UK based wholesale company, who Baytree Living Baytree Living Startup Baytree Living Startup Package Baytree Living Startup Baytree Package Living Startup Package Baytree Living Startup Baytree Package Living Startup Baytree Package Living Startup Baytree Package Living Startup Baytree Package Living Startu Pac BaL offer a vastBaytree range of garden plant supports and planters. All Products All with Products All Pictured Products All Pictured Products – 18 All Pictured In Products – Total All 18 Pictured In Products – Total All 18 Pictured In Products –emphasize All Total 18 Pictured In Products –All Total 18 Pictured Products In – All 18 Total Pictured In Products –All Total 18 Pictured Produc In – 18 Tota Pict In – Working primarily UK manufacturers, we All P on quality so our products are created to last.

TOTAL TOTAL TOTAL £556.30 TOTAL £556.30 TOTAL £556.30 EX. TOTAL £556.30 EX. VAT! TOTAL £556.30 EX. VAT! TOTAL £556.30 EX. VAT! TOTAL £556.30 EX. VAT! TOTAL £556.30 EX. VAT! TOTAL £556.30 EX. VAT! £556 EX. VA £ TOTA

Tel – 07712676545 Tel – 07712676545 Tel – 07712676545 Tel Email – 07712676545 Tel Email – sales@baytreeliving.com – Tel 07712676545 Email – sales@baytreeliving.com – 07712676545 Tel Email – sales@baytreeliving.com – 07712676545 Tel Email – sales@baytreeliving.com – 07712676545 Tel Email – –sales@baytreeliving.com 07712676545 Tel Email – sales@baytreeliving.c – 07712676545 Tel Email – –sales@baytreeli 07712676545 Email – sales@bay Email – saleE Tel – 077126 Baytree Living Startup Package

With www.baytreeliving.com an aged look, they simply improve over time. www.baytreeliving.com www.baytreeliving.com www.baytreeliving.com www.baytreeliving.com www.baytreeliving.com www.baytreeliving.com www.baytreeliving www.baytreeliv www.baytre www.ba All Products Pictured – 18 In Total

Baytree Living Startup Package

TOTAL £556.30 EX. VAT!

All Products Pictured – 18 In Total

Tel – 07712676545 Email – sales@baytreeliving.com

www

Products

Products Lawncare NURTURE YOUR LAWN TO PERFECTION WITH THESE CUTTING-EDGE PRODUCTS

Tuff Grass with dog patch resistance Johnsons Lawn Seed Tuff Grass lawn seed is a unique product with proven ability to create dog patch resistant lawns and be tough enough to stand up to the wear and tear of family use. It’s also quick to establish and tolerant of both hot and cold conditions. Tuff Grass can be used for new lawns, overseeding and patching. RRP £21.25 (1.275kg, 60sqm) johnsonslawnseed.com

Lawn & Sports Turf top dressing Bathgate Silica Sand Our top dressing is 100% peat free, 100% sustainable and sand-based for good drainage. Screened to 3mm and heat treated, it helps to keep lawns in top condition by levelling out lumps and hollows, controlling build-up of thatch in the lawn, improving drainage and is full of nutrients to stimulate growth. It is wildlife and pet safe and proudly made in Cheshire. Formally a Bathgate Horticulture product, this will now be available through Bathgate Silica Sand. RRP £6.99 bathgatesilica.co.uk/horticulture

gardencentreretail.com

FOXWatch Concept Research FOXWatch is the leading UK ultrasonic fox deterrent. Once triggered it releases bursts of ultrasonic sound, resulting in the fox retreating. It is an innovative and humane way of banishing foxes from your property, and cannot be heard by humans. RRP £54.95 conceptresearch.co.uk

Quick Lawn with Accelerator® Johnsons Lawn Seed Quick Lawn with Accelerator-treated seed is made from an innovative formula that joins the seaweed revolution, resulting in a mix that guarantees rapid lawn establishment and requires just a third of the amount of water that’s usually needed. Quick Lawn is packed with dwarf perennial ryegrass and creeping red fescue and a carefully formulated blend of biostimulants in the seed coating – including seaweed extract, humic acids, amino acids, micronutrients, and root developers. RRP £6.75 (210g), £11.99 (425g), £28.99 (1.275kg), £66.99 (4.25kg) johnsonslawnseed.com

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

Products Organic CleanLawn Neudorff Organic CleanLawn comprises of entirely natural ingredients and contains a blend of mycorrhiza fungi and soil-revitalising microorganisms for robust and healthy root systems and plants. The mycorrhiza fungi enhance the root surface area by up to 150 times, enabling more efficient absorption of water and nutrients. This enhances the lawn’s resilience to dry spells and frost. As a result, the lawn grows dense and strong, effectively inhibiting the growth of moss and weeds. RRP £11.99 (2.5kg), £31.50 (8kg) neudorff.co.uk

SafeLawn Westland Trust Westland, the UK’s number one lawn feed brand*, to help your customers achieve their perfect lawn. Westland’s SafeLawn is an all-in-one solution to help maintain existing lawns in a way that’s both child and pet friendly. The fertiliser uses natural ingredients and includes good bacteria to help break down dead moss, grass material, thatch and leaves into nutrients, to green and thicken lawns in just three days. RRP £9.99 gardenhealth.com/westlandsafelawn-lawn-feed

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

CleanLawn moss control for lawns concentrate Neudorff Neudorff’s Organic CleanLawn Moss Control for Lawns. It combats moss and is environmentally friendly with its active ingredient pelargonic acid, which is naturally derived from plants. This guarantees fast visible results without harming your lawn, turning moss brown, so it can easily be scarified. It works even at low temperatures and is both child and pet-safe. RRP £13.50 (1L concentrate) neudorff.co.uk

Peat-free organic lawn feed & top dressing RocketGro Naturally produced, sustainable and 100% peat free, RocketGro’s lawn feed is a wonder product that helps conscious gardeners achieve the lush green lawn of their dreams. Regular applications of this rich, natural bio-active feed will revitalise tired lawns. Micro-nutrients, including magnesium and sulphur, slow feed for up to three months, whilst natural microbes boost root growth, resulting in a strong, healthy, resilient lawn. Soil Association Approved, 100% British, and child & pet safe. RRP £6.99 rocketgro.co.uk

gardencentreretail.com

NATIONAL FREEHOLD LAND REQUIREMENT NEW COLLECTION

1.2 – 2 acre sites close to major towns on major arterial routes with amenities in close proximity (C2 use). Residential Care Major well-funded and experienced developer and operator Quick decisions and excellent land values

Please send sites to Ian Blackett at ianblackett@btconnect.com or call Ian on 07808 895013 All information treated in strictest confidence

Please contact us for our trade catalogue: Tel 01460 75686 www.classiccanes.co.uk

Glasshouses supplied, erected, dismantled. Bespoke structures. Expert reroofing in polycarbonate and composite panels. All aspects of glasshouse work and refurbishments. Maintenance, cleaning. Gutter and door replacement.

Tel: 01724 734374 Fax: 01482 648032 Email: info@newcenturyglass.co.uk Web: www.newcenturyglasshouses.com

New and second hand aluminium benching: Fixed, Semi rolling, mobile and sales benches.

VALEKA BV • Heliniumweg 14 • 3133 AX Vlaardingen, The Netherlands Tel: +31-10 599 74 02 • info@valeka.nl • www.valeka.nl

Next Issue

What’s coming up...

February 2024 Buying groups G ‌ arden machinery‌ Allergy awareness Decorative aggregates …and more!

With you from 31 January 2024 50

Garden Centre Retail December 2023/January 2024

gardencentreretail.com

Imaginative play at it’s best!

Trucks!

! S Y O T CARTOO

NS!

Block E, 19/F, Koon Wo Industrial Bldg., 63-75 Ta Chuen Ping St., Kwai Chung, Hong Kong

MIGHTYWHEELS.COM ®

WATCH CARTOON SERIES

Timber Displays Limited Lodge Farm, 47 Spalding Road, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 0AU T: 01778 422700 E: sales@timberdisplays.co.uk www.timberdisplays.co.uk

Timber Displays can offer you the very best quality in pressure treated timber display products at affordable prices. Our products are designed to increase your turnover by showing your merchandise to its full potential and to add an attractive feature to your Garden Centre or store. We offer a comprehensive range of standard items plus our ever expanding range of flood benching.