Garden Centre Retail May 2024

Amy Stubbs

Welcome to the May 2024 issue of Garden Centre Retail magazine. We’re now well within the gardening season – Easter has come and gone, and hopefully, the weather will continue to improve. I hope the Easter season was good for you, and here’s to the next few months.

In this issue, we’ve got a fantastic interview with Amy Stubbs of British Garden Centres. At 24 years old, Stubbs is a huge part of the family business, driving forward Charles’ vision to be the biggest family-run garden centre group in the UK. She has a great business brain, and a fantastic understanding of the sector and the aims of her business. It’s my opinion that she will be one of the driving forces in this sector for years to come, and if that is the case, we’ve got a fantastic advocate supporting us all for the future.

We’ve also got articles which feature two other inspirational female leaders from within the sector. This wasn’t intentional on our behalf, but it’s noteworthy. This sector is often male led, so

to see strong female role models doing important things in the industry is very satisfying for us.

The first of the two mentioned articles focuses on staff wellbeing, with Vicci Pugh of Wales-based Pugh’s Garden Centres explaining her role as a wellbeing support officer, and what she has done since joining the family business to help the staff be the best they can be.

The second article features Hannah Warr of Laylocks Garden Centre. Warr has spearheaded the huge expansion of their centre. The new centre opened at the end of March, and we spoke with her about the entire process, from start to finish.

As well as those features, we’ve got information on the best-selling trees in garden centres, a look at how to engage a younger audience within your centre, and information on the latest products in the hand tools, wild animal care and gardening apparel sectors.

Have a great month, see you in June for our annual Sustainability Special issue.

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of the latest industry news

The Garden Centre Association shares its learnings from the conference in January 2024 News

The GCA Annual Conference

Setting up the year ahead, with GIMA

How garden centres can help customers kick-start their gardening season

14

Reacting to the minimum wage increase

Andrew Burton on mitigating the minimum wage increase

17

PR and Sales

How PR and sales can work together to get big results

18

Amy Stubbs

The growth and plans for British Garden Centres

22

Workplace culture

The importance of fostering a positive culture

Wellbeing winners

Wonderful wellbeing initiatives, Pughs Garden Centre

Targeting the younger generation

Savills’ top tips on drawing in younger customers

Laylocks Garden Centre

Director Hannah Warr shares the centre’s recent success

The best trees to stock

Tree grower

Frank P Matthews shares the top trees to stock and sell

Hand tools

The latest products in the hand tools sector

Wild animal care

Products for the wild animal care department

Gardening apparel

The latest products in gardening apparel

NOVA appoints new LEADERSHIP

MEET CARL SMITHERS, THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND NOVA’S EXCITING TRANSFORMATION

Nova Outdoor Living has recently rebranded, offering a brand-new outlook on a historic name. But it isn’t just a new logo, they also have a new leader to head up the business.

Carl Smithers has been appointed operations director for NOVA and has already been delivering some huge changes within the brand.

Carl has had a huge impact on the business, building a 44,000 sq. ft. trade showroom – dubbed the NOVA Experience Centre, which is set to be the largest trade showroom in the UK. Furthermore, he has overseen the creation of a brand-new product range with over 40 new collections and over a hundred new products that will become available for customers when the Experience Centre opens its doors in June.

We asked Carl about his plans for NOVA, and here’s what he had to say:

Tell us about you and your experience. For over 20 years, I have owned and run businesses giving me an entrepreneurial background as well as having a background in the military. Following that, I helped implement the operations of a national furniture retailer. Most recently over the last 10 years, I have worked in the outdoor furniture sector and have put my strongest skills such as strong relationship skills, buying, sales and strategy to the challenge.

Why did you join NOVA?

I joined NOVA as I could see the changes that needed to be made and was intrigued by the challenge presented to me. I had the confidence that I could transform NOVA for the better; as a businessman, I saw the difficulties NOVA faced and the effect it was having on customers due to the association the business has historically had with White Stores. I could see strategic change was needed imminently and I felt I had the experience and knowledge

I COULD SEE STRATEGIC CHANGE WAS NEEDED IMMINENTLY

to aid the business. As of 2025, NOVA will be supplying White Stores with its own curated product range and not sharing from the same stock pool allowing our NOVA to offer completely different products.

What are your ambitions and visions for a future with NOVA?

The vision for NOVA begins with the new brand we have created. Whilst NOVA is a wellestablished and well-known brand, we didn’t feel connected to it as a management team, and we wanted it to share our values and identity. My ambitions include shop-in-shop concepts for our customers across the country and for NOVA to strive to be the national go-to brand for outdoor retailers. I also believe that with focus on original design, leading in-store POS and strategic partnerships NOVA can, over the next few years, become the leading outdoor furniture brand in the UK once again.

What is you outlook on the outdoor furniture industry?

I believe currently the outdoor furniture industry is in a dip. The long-term phase of rattan is starting to see its decline and the covid-19 boom in our industry is coming to an end. Retailers have been seeking someone to offer innovation in new materials and designs.

I believe rope and mixed materials have offered some optimism in this space, and I am confident NOVA’s new designs will fill a hole, allowing retailers to get on top of market trends.

What aspect of the ‘New NOVA’ are you most excited about?

I am most excited about the opening of the Experience Centre which will be the biggest trade showroom in the country. I believe it highlights the confidence, not just that we have as a business, but also the confidence in my team to deliver a totally new product range. A huge investment shows the strategic longevity we have put in place.

seems to be going against the grain of where many other brands are heading, NOVA is essentially taking itself offline to become a retail-focused brand.

What would you say the best thing about NOVA is from your time in the company?

That’s easy. It’s the team and the suppliers. Similarly, I have been incredibly impressed with our partners in the Far East, and this is something that we are incredibly proud of. I am confident in saying that we have a fabulous network who we collaborate with to offer different materials and designs.

What benefits and challenges do you see this bringing NOVA and its customer base?

For the past five years, NOVA customers have enjoyed the benefits of large UK stocks which they can draw upon through the season. However, the downside to this is that White Stores and many other retailers have also had access to the same stock. The benefit of the new strategy is that NOVA can now focus on designing products especially for the retail market, focusing on quality and comfort instead of size and price. The new ranges we have put together are designed with the retail consumer in mind, so we have had a lot more freedom to be creative with seat depths, materials and generally high-quality materials throughout. The fact that we won’t have the same levels of stock in the UK as before may appear a challenge, but it means that there is going to be less competition so retailers will be able to maintain their margins.

This marks a significant shift from your previous business model. Are there any other major changes?

I think that NOVA has learnt a lot from the challenges of the past few years and whilst it

Seeing what’s coming through our design team now and over the next 12 months gives me tremendous confidence in our ability to support retailers with truly inspiring outdoor furniture.

If you had to describe NOVA and what it stands for in three words what would they be?

Original, focused and innovative.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

My strategy for NOVA is to build long-term partnerships with retailers. Our job is to make sure that retailers have a complete offering of outdoor furniture, catering for all garden settings and themes with the latest trends.

If you are, or want to be, a retailer of outdoor furniture, have a dedicated space and sales team, and want to see how NOVA’s new philosophy aligns with your business, come and see us at our new Experience Centre from June this year.

News

Notcutts annual awards highlights team success

The family-owned garden centre group, Notcutts, gathered at the Chesford Grange Hotel in Kenilworth on 14 March to celebrate the successes of its colleagues across all 19 garden centres nationwide. The event, attended by over 140 colleagues, family members and sponsors, marked the culmination of a year of hard work and dedication.

Award categories recognised teams across all areas of the business, including ‘Best Garden Centre Performance’ which was won by Notcutts Maidstone, and ‘Best Restaurant’, awarded to Notcutts Oxford. New for 2024 was the ‘Pet Excellence’ category, won by

Notcutts Ashton Park near Manchester for their outstanding pet department. The awards ceremony also recognised garden centres for their commitment to sustainability through the ‘Environmental Action Award’ won by Notcutts

The HTA Market Report reveals market growth

Despite facing a deluge of rain across the United Kingdom, the HTA Market Update in March 2024 reports that garden centres in February 2024 remained positive, with a +6% increase in overall garden centre sales compared to the same period last year.

Fran Barnes, chief executive of the HTA, comments: “In February 2024, England experienced extremely heavy rainfall, with the southern half of the country being hit the hardest, receiving nearly 15 times the amount of rainfall compared to February 2023.

Despite this, garden centre sales saw a rise of 6% compared to February 2023 and 11% compared to February 2022, indicating a positive start to the upcoming spring season.

However, she continues: “Our Market Update also shows a dip in consumer confidence, which fell two points in February 2024 due to the announcement of the UK entering a recession. But confidence levels were still 18 points higher than the previous year. Concerns for the National Health Service (NHS) have surpassed financial worries for only the second time since the onset of the pandemic, reflecting shifting priorities amidst ongoing societal challenges.” hta.org.uk

Ashton Park, and the ‘Community Hero Award’ won by Notcutts Brampton near Huntingdon for fostering meaningful connections within their local communities.

Nick Burrows, chief executive at Notcutts Garden Centres, says: “Each year our conference and awards shine a light on the fantastic work that our incredible teams do on the ground, every day, at our garden centres across the country and in our support office. It’s always an inspiring occasion and I’d like to extend a huge congratulations to all our winners and thank you to our sponsors for supporting the event.” notcutts.co.uk

Rod Austin leaves British Garden Centres after 24 years

After 24 years of dedicated service, plant buyer Rod Austin is bidding farewell to British Garden Centres. He has been an integral part of the company’s journey and growth since the group’s early days when there were just two centres in the portfolio.

Austin’s journey with British Garden Centres began when the family made the initial jump from one centre to two – he was part of what was then Frosts Garden Centre and therefore joined the family and Brigg Garden Centre (formerly Frosts) evolved. Over the years, his horticulture commitment and expertise have propelled him through various roles in the business, including serving as a manager at Brigg, procuring everything from garden furniture to sundries, and spearheading the plant-buying efforts before the establishment of a dedicated team as the number of centres acquired grew.

Charles Stubbs, director at British Garden Centres, comments:

“Everyone at British Garden Centres wants to express their gratitude and thanks to Rod Austin for his invaluable contributions and wish him the very best in the future. His unwavering dedication to excellence and his deep-rooted knowledge of plants and the industry have been instrumental in shaping the group into the reputable brand it is today. His passion, expertise, and leadership will be deeply missed.”

britishgardencentres.com

GCA announces 2024/2025 chairman elect

The GCA has announced its chairman elect for 2024/25.

Ben Harrison, who is operations director of Haskins Garden Centres, is stepping into the role and will become chairman at the GCA’s annual conference in January 2026.

Harrison says: “I’m delighted to be taking on this prestigious position, having previously been the organisation’s treasurer. I’m really looking forward to my chairmanship. I’m so grateful to be following in the footsteps of our current chairman, Will Blake, who is showing excellent leadership and is inspirational in his approach and energy.

“In my tenure, I hope to continue our ongoing drive to recruit more new members, while ensuring we support all our current ones and focus on the core benefits of our membership, including

delivering a motivational 2026 members’ conference, promoting the importance of our regional meetings and our vital standards-driven inspection process.”

Peter Burks, chief executive of the GCA, says: “I am thrilled Ben has agreed to be our new chairman elect. I would like to congratulate him on being elected by our members during our last AGM meeting.

“I am really looking forward to working with Ben this year as he heads up several of the work streams we are currently working on.” gca.org.uk

Elho Grow Your Own innovation awarded Which? Best Buy

Elho has been awarded the prestigious Which? Best Buy for its bestselling green basics grow pot, it has revealed.

David Nicholson, UK, NEU & ROW sales manager for elho, comments: “We’re incredibly excited to receive this accolade for our green basics grow pot.

“At elho, we are committed to developing practical plant pots that are also stylish and sustainable, encouraging more people to welcome nature into their lives. It is therefore wonderful to receive recognition from such a trusted and well-respected organisation as Which?, something which reaffirms our ongoing dedication to innovation and quality.” elho.com

Phil Thomas appointed to lead Dobbies Garden Centres’ marketing

Phil Thomas has joined the UK’s leading garden centre retailer, Dobbies, as chief marketing officer (CMO). Thomas joins from Costa Coffee, where he has been CMO for the last three years.

As chief marketing officer, Thomas will be responsible for all of Dobbies’ customer and marketing activity. He will leverage the company’s renewed brand purpose and values to create engaging communication and customer experiences, and bring an increased focus on customer insight and data analytics.

David Robinson, CEO of Dobbies, says: “We are building an incredibly strong senior leadership team and recruiting Phil is another positive step in achieving our ambitions. Phil is a very experienced marketing operator who will drive our goal of communicating our focus on garden living through all of our marketing. Phil’s extensive knowledge of UK retail and product marketing will be invaluable to delivering on our strategy.”

Thomas’s appointment comes as customer director, Louise Niven steps down from her role to go on maternity leave. dobbies.com

March BoT figures show a ‘very strong month’

The Barometer of Trade (BoT) figures from the GCA for March 2024 have been revealed and are ‘very strong’ when compared with the same month last year.

According to data submitted by member garden centres, none of the categories were down whenlikened to March 2023. The year-todate variance was +9.12%.

GCA CEO, Peter Burks says: “March has been a very strong month for our members. It was definitely helped with Easter being in the month this year. Customers were clearly out in their gardens with hard landscaping showing the biggest increase in sales compared to March 2023.”

Members in the South saw an increase of

Dobbies appoints Robert Cook as board advisor

Renowned hospitality professional, Robert Cook, has joined Dobbies as a board advisor to support the strategic development of its restaurant business.

A seasoned hospitality CEO, Robert has led a number of the UK’s hospitality and leisure businesses including TGI Fridays, Malmaison & Hotel du Vin, and Virgin Active.

Robert Cook said: “Dobbies restaurants have something for everyone, serving thousands of customers every week. For so many people, a visit to Dobbies is not complete without a stop off to enjoy the great food and drink on offer. I’m looking forward to supporting the team to strengthen the offering and ensure customers have the most memorable experiences possible.”

David Robinson, CEO of Dobbies, said: “Robert has worked for the biggest names in hospitality. We’re delighted to have him share that wealth of knowledge and experience with us.” dobbies.com

+13.87%, in the North, Scotland and Northern Ireland it was +12.1%, and in the Midlands, Wales and West +10.77%.

Excluding Christmas and the miscellaneous section, the GCA’s top performing category in March 2024 was hard landscaping, up +38.42%, when compared to the same month in 2023.

This was followed by outdoor plants at +32.39%, garden sundries at +28.86% and clothing in at +22.07%.

Food hall/farm shop also recorded a positive return in March, in comparison to the same month last year, and was up +20.21% and seeds & bulbs was at +16.24%. Catering was in at +16.21% and pet & aquatics at +13.8%, houseplants at +10.39% and gifts at +8.99%. gca.org.uk

Squire’s charts a steady course

‘C

harting a steady course in marginally calmer waters’ probably best describes Squire’s performance in their financial year ending 31 July 2023, after the somewhat rolling seas of the Covid and immediate post Covid era.

This year’s results were, as anticipated, a little below the results for last year, with retail sales of £66.3m (2022: £68.2m). Within that total, Garden Centre sales dropped to £56.9m (2022: £59.9m), while Restaurant sales rose by 13% to £9.4m (2022: £8.3m). E-commerce recorded sales of £1.1m (+10%) in its second full year and the company is pleased with

the steady development of this channel. The newly acquired Barnsfold Nurseries business contributed £1.6m in its maiden seven months with the group, taking total sales to £67.9m.

Underlying profit before tax dropped to £2.4m (2022: £4.0m) with an additional contribution of £0.4m from Barnsfold.

Sarah Squire comments: “Calendar year 2024 started well for Squire’s. We were thrilled that Hersham was awarded the GCA Ruxley Rose trophy in the Garden Centre category. With Woking coming third and Wokingham in the top ten, this cements our confidence in the plant side of our business.” squiresgardencentres.co.uk

GCA 2024

The next steps...

TRANSITION AND INNOVATION: HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Our Annual Conference takes up much of the association’s energy and time at the start of the year, so while it’s great to reflect on a fantastic few days, it’s also nice to move on and to get stuck into tackling some new challenges.

Changes to our areas and turnover bands discussed at our Conference AGM mean that instead of having eight regions, we now have four larger ones. This also means we have an excess of area chairmen, so at our executive committee meeting, it was agreed that each new area would have both a chairman and a co-chairman.

This will help to spread the workload and, as these people change, it should mean we always have some additional knowledge that can be shared as a new chairperson joins.

We’ve added four new factors regarding a centre’s approach to social media, as it is such a huge part of everyone’s marketing, but, most importantly, how most customers, especially those considering visiting for the first time, view a business. We felt this should be inspected by an industry expert and, so, for the first time we have hired an external expert to do this.

The customer service section has also been enhanced to make sure all centres have a good focus on this, as it’s one of the biggest factors that sets us apart from the rest of the industry, and indeed, other industries.

Our inspectors are now out visiting member garden centres on their unannounced visits to check on standards. This year, there have been a number of alterations and additions to the inspection form, meaning they now check 230 different factors in every business.

We have also extended the section checking on a centre’s environment and sustainability credentials. This is to ensure we are looking at everything from initial policy down to the products that are for sale. Our inspectors are not able to ask questions of the staff or to check the wording on products, so clear signage is essential, as this conveys the message to the customer. We do seem to be very good at doing a lot of this but not always so good at telling people.

This was also true of some good feedback we had following our most recent webinar on sustainability. We had a great presentation from PlanetMark regarding the difference between being carbon neutral vs net zero. This prompted much discussion, idea sharing, as well as a positive outcome from our large audience. Our next webinars are mid-April, discussing mental wellbeing, as well as sustainability in June.

We’ve also recently shared about a new partnership that the charity Perennial have created with Carers UK to support those in our industry that also work as carers.

Personalised support and information, hands-on guides and tools are available to everyone working with plants, trees, flowers or grass, who is looking after someone who can’t look after themselves. Such invaluable help, and proves relevant to so many.

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

KIT OUT GARDENERS with the right gear for the year ahead

FROM STYLISH WELLIES TO HANDY TROWELS, AND EVEN THE MOST EFFECTIVE WILD BIRD FEEDERS, ARM YOUR CUSTOMERS WITH THE BEST GARDENING APPAREL, TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT FOR THE SEASON AHEAD, WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM GIMA MEMBERS.

The right tools for the job

Whether a novice or expert gardener, tools that promise quality and help make outdoor tasks easier will always appeal. GARDENA’s new range of ClassicLine tools has been created to take the hard work out of gardening. As Europe’s leading tool brand, GARDENA has been designing innovative tools for over 40 years and are proud to introduce the new ClassicLine range of spades and forks. The new range features an extra-long, solid shaft for less bending and strain on users’ backs while working. The range also features an extra wide footrest for more power when digging, even on compact soil. The

ergonomically designed D-shaped handle on all ClassicLine tools make them comfortable to use; and with a 10-year warranty you can rest assured, they’re made to last.

Meanwhile, Burgon & Ball managing director, Rainer Schubert tells retailers: “Economic conditions may be challenging, but consumers are still willing to spend on the right garden tools and equipment. Look to offer products with a compelling point of difference, such as RHS endorsement and long guarantees. Our GIMA award-winning RHSendorsed trowels and our RHS-endorsed brushes have seen huge demand in their

first season. Our new RHS Growing Gardeners family gardening collection offers creative ways to enjoy gardening together, again with reassuring guarantees. A premium product always holds great appeal, and our Kneelo® memory foam garden kneelers and knee pads have recently been re-engineered with 30% more foam, for outstanding comfort.”

Combining traditional materials with expert know-how and modern manufacturing techniques, AMES Tools have been expertly designed with style, comfort and relentless performance in mind. The comprehensive range includes carbon and stainless steel collections, with a wide breadth of range spanning across digging, planting, cultivating, lawn care and hand tools.

AMES Tools are designed to last. The tools are specially tempered to withstand greater force, with ethically sourced, ergonomic FSCcertified ash wood handles, double rivet shafts and market-leading innovations, like Comfort

Step and the extra-wide leaf rake head. All products come with a 15-year guarantee.

Flexible solutions

When it comes to versatile equipment to get jobs done effectively, look no further than Fargro’s Eco

Metallic FlexiTubs, made from 100% recycled raw material, unlike the standard flexi-tubs. Flexible, shock, and temperature resistant with reinforced handles, the Flexi-Tubs are available in round and square shapes and in mixed colour packs. The buckets can be used for all gardening activities and a multitude of jobs, including landscaping, tackling household chores and going on outdoor adventures. Modular by design, the systems can also easily be extended – making them a great solution for consumers who are looking to bring a little (or a lot) of self-sufficiency into their lives.

they cater to both men and women at an affordable price point. These lightweight boots offer a sustainable alternative to traditional PVC footwear, with removable machine washable liners, ensuring hygiene and longevity. Often described as ‘The Lightest Wellingtons you’ll ever wear’, they combine style and comfort, making them perfect for everyday outdoor activities.

Flexible solutions

When it comes to flexible footwear, LBC Ultralight Ankle Boots redefine comfort and durability. Available in eight vibrant colours,

As the nation’s love of feeding feathered friends shows no signs of abating, ensuring customers have access to the best equipment for wild bird wellbeing is a must. Henry Bell Select and Select Plus feeders offer robust design and a convenient push-down open mechanism for easy filling and cleaning. Manufactured from fully recyclable materials, the ranges include feeders for all types of wild bird food. Each feeder features specially created ring perches to support health and

wellbeing, allowing birds to feed in greater safety and for longer. Select feeders are 20cm high and 6.5cm wide, while those in the Select Plus range are slightly larger, at 25cm and 7cm wide, offering greater feed capacity and a stepup for customers.

For eco-savvy customers, Earthy Sustainable brings you a new range of sustainable bird feeders made from waste agricultural materials. A lot of time, energy and water goes into growing the crop, yet much of the resulting plant goes unwanted, and would normally be burnt. Instead, Earthy Sustainable processes this unwanted fibre and blends it with resin to create its range of bird feeders. These feeders are made for the top-selling bird foods available to ensure the very best for wild birds. The full range is available in a bespoke stand, which explains the story to your customers effectively.

About GIMA

GIMA is a membership organisation of around 170 companies representing the majority share of suppliers and manufacturers in the UK gardening industry. Its goal is to promote the commercial, trading and industrial interests of its UK and EU-based members. Run by a team of professionals, and governed by a council of members, GIMA is funded by membership subscriptions and services. Its extensive range of services and support caters to all members. gima.org.uk

Reacting to the

LIVING WAGE INCREASE

THIS MONTH, ANDREW BURTON SHARES HIS STRATEGIES FOR NAVIGATING THE LIVING WAGE SURGE

On 1 April 2024, the National Living Wage increased by more than £1 for the first time. It doesn’t take a genius to know that garden centres are heavily supported by living wage staff, and this leaves garden centre owners and managers with significant challenges to cover their wage increases, especially at a time when the economic aspects and overhead increases are also high on the agenda.

I’ve been working with a number of businesses over the past year to take steps in advance of this, and whilst different businesses have different strategies how to tackle this impact in costs, one thing is for sure, everyone is feeling this affect and taking action in one way or other.

I was thinking about the actions some garden centres and other rural businesses are taking to counteract the impact being created by the living wage, and amongst them were strategies

that supported processes and productivity, revisiting turnover opportunities and working with the team to maximise profit.

Developing staff accountability

It’s easy to point out that improving productivity of the team can help lower costs or improve profit, and it’s an area that many garden centres work on continuously to improve. However, not all garden centres do this and it is an opportunity for many businesses to look at their existing team, work out who does what and why they do what they do.

Team development can be focused on the whole team, using a number of development techniques that may include annual appraisals,

focused training, restructuring of the business, or simply by giving more responsibility to the team.

The stronger the team’s capability, the better the performance

We know that training is a key aspect to help develop people, and is something that should have a really positive impact on the team and induvial, ultimately helping the business. However, successful process management also depends on a teamwide capability and understanding of everyone’s roles and

responsibilities. There are lots of different methods to identify how a team can get better, and one way to look at the team is through a RACI Matrix, which is a document that clarifies which individuals are responsible for what job. It helps to identify the roles that each will play throughout the project. This document can be

SUCCESSFUL PROCESS MANAGEMENT DEPENDS ON A TEAM-WIDE CAPABILITY AND UNDERSTANDING OF EVERYONE’S ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

adapted at the correct level for the business needs, but essentially it is a working document that identifies what individuals could be responsible for and gives clarity to the whole team who is accountable for what.

Identiying and reviewing this within your team can really help with understanding the need for multi-skilling and what people should be doing.

Team engagement in helping lower costs

Employee engagement is an essential component of any successful business, and it can significantly impact productivity, staff retention, and overall performance. However, it can be challenging for some businesses to know how to foster this employee engagement effectively.

Staff who are not involved in the business objectives are often demotivated and unenthusiastic and may not be invested in their job, which can lead to low productivity, poor performance, and higher staff turnover rates.

On the flip side, an engaged team are usually really caring and passionate about their job, and they feel valued. This culture is often more likely to see the team go the extra mile, react well to additional responsibilities, and work really well with their colleagues and as a team!

There are usually so many hidden talents in a team and group of individuals, and working

as a team will help to use these. It is an ageold adage that leading a team well will more than likely equate to success, but it is imperative in my view that engaging the team through strong leadership could well make a step change in how well the garden centre might operate.

Staff scheduling

It goes without saying that reviewing staff scheduling has been high on the agenda for many garden centres this past year. There are a lot of businesses who schedule staff ‘how they always have’. However, by revisiting your staff schedules and looking in depth at when people should be in and for what job, this can make a real difference in payroll costs. Of course, there is a fine balance between reducing hours versus achieving tasks and motivation of the team, but anyone who has not completed this exercise recently may well be advised to do so.

This review should also be more than looking at hours by job; it may also create a review of processes, including trolleys collection, food production, deliveries, replenishment and admin – including identifying anything that might be outsourced or automated.

Benchmarking and layout

Operationally, I work the team at Pleydell Smithyman alongside a number of garden centres to review their businesses to maximise their turnover and profit potential. In every business there looks to be some sort of potential to improve profit.

Some low hanging fruit, and others big step changes that could make a significant difference in their turnover.

As an example, a few months ago I worked with a garden centre who wanted to introduce a new food offer by using a newly built building, but on review of the garden centre turnover and local competition it was clear that food wasn’t the best way to develop. However, seasonal space was minimal and growth in furniture and Christmas was something that would likely impact the turnover potential significantly. So, we introduced a smaller food retail offer in the existing seasonal space, which was in a high impulse location, and moved the seasonal department to a space nearly twice its existing size in a location more suited to this product type. This was the

right move for that business, but essentially, I wonder how many garden centres have benchmarked themselves, looked at their competition and understood what was ‘best placed for what location and space’ and also to see if processes could be improved by using space better.

Anyone who hasn’t done this since covid hit us may really want to consider it, because there has been lots to consider in recent years and doing something that would impact on profit positively is a clear way to help focus on paying higher costs.

It’s not all doom and gloom

There are a lot more areas for businesses to look at when looking at their costs vs profit, and what journey each individual business goes on depends on ‘where they are in their journey already.’ I look back at challenging times in the past, and our garden centre industry is one of flexibility and maturity and I know this is another hurdle we will step over, but it may be one that we need to do together using all the resources we can across all areas of the industry.

About

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 and operational support. He sits on the Farm Retail Association Council, and previously on the Garden Centre Association Board.

andrewb@pleydellsmithyman.co.uk

Andrew Burton

Come and see:

Canopies, pergolas, awnings and shades

Fire pits

Garden buildings and rooms

Garden decoration

Garden furniture

Home fitness

Hot tubs

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PR AND SALES:

The dream duo that should go hand-in-hand

FAY CLARKSON, OPERATIONS AND ACCOUNT DIRECTOR AT HONEST COMMUNICATIONS, DISCUSSES PR AND SALES SYNERGIES FOR BIG RESULTS

Any good salesperson would agree that sales, marketing and PR teams should be aligned and working collaboratively to deliver the best results.

At Honest Communications, we have seen first-hand how PR can directly uplift sales for our clients, from sales in Henchman’s garden ladders spiking after an editorial feature in glossy garden magazine, The English Garden, to the demand of Seedball’s skyrocketing after a gift guide inclusion in The Times. There are countless ways PR can create an impact on a company’s sales funnel. So, let’s delve into the fertile ground where PR and sales intertwine.

Putting more leads in your pipeline

PR is all about raising awareness so that you sit above your competitors – whether it’s through expert commentary, product placement, partnerships and collaborations, or reviews and trials. It can create demand so when customers see products in-store or online they are already familiar and ready to purchase. Put simply, more coverage = more sales. So, it’s clear that to

increase sales, you must aim to get your brand in front of as many eyes as possible, in as many places as possible. That’s where PR can come in.

Quality editorial coverage can help to shout about the USPs and details of your products, helping to do the sales spiel for you and reiterating what is being said in your other channels. It can tell your story, not just creating instant sales but also building fans, long-term loyalty and a customer base for the future.

Sing from the same hymn sheet

Sales and PR plans should be aligned from the very beginning. First, devise the sales strategy, outlining what you want to be focusing on and when, then share it with your PR team. They can then plan accordingly, working back on publication lead times, planning content and knowing who to talk to for features that will land in the right sales window.

Make sure that sales and PR messaging are unified. More cohesive communications have more impact, and in turn, create a stronger public image which ultimately leads to more sales.

Shared

insight

PR teams should be informed about exactly who you are trying to reach so they can devise the PR strategy and place editorial content accordingly.

Don’t forget that your PR team will have a wealth of knowledge for you to gain from too –

they are working in your sector day in, day out, gaining customer insight and market trends that could inform your sales plans. They will also be keeping an eye on your competitors, so can keep you in the loop of what they are up to as well.

Share any customer feedback (both the good and the bad) with your PR team. If they know customer doubts or pain points, they can counter this in the PR narrative. Similarly, share sales data – PR can shout about any successes or can focus efforts on products that may need a little boost. They can dig in to find the story, for example, if a certain product is selling well in a certain region – PR teams can find out why and turn it into a story.

Ultimately, we know that increasing conversions can’t rely on one marketing channel alone. It is the accumulative effect of several activities that create the touchpoints needed for a sale.

About Fay Clarkson

Fay Clarkson is operations and account director at Honest Communications, which is the chosen PR and social media agency of many leading garden brands, including: elho, Hillier, Town & Country, WOLF Garten, and Wilkinson Sword. honestcommunications.co.uk

An interview with

Amy Stubbs

WE EXPLORE BRITISH GARDEN CENTRES’ SUCCESSFUL JOURNEY OF GROWTH AND INNOVATION

Amy Stubbs is project and development manager of British Garden Centres, and daughter of Charles, director of the business. Once you meet her, it’s easy to forget how young she is. At just 24 years old, Stubbs has the head of a much more seasoned member of the garden retail industry.

Sat in the restaurant at Roxton Garden Centre, Stubbs shares the history of what is the largest family-owned garden centre group, and third-biggest group in the sector. “It started when my dad started to grow Leylandii cuttings in the garden and sell them on the roadside. He absolutely hated school so he would find any reason to get out of it, and this is the route he took” she says, with a sense of pride.

Growth

When an opportunity to buy a site next to their family home arose, her father took it. This then became the first British Garden Centre store, Woodthorpe. And growth was the plan.

In 2000, British Garden Centres made its first acquisition – the first of many – buying

BRIGG BECAME A DESTINATION GARDEN CENTRE, IT TAUGHT US TO EVOLVE OUR WORLD FROM JUST SELLING PLANTS

Brigg Garden Centre, which has gone on to become, in Stubbs’ words, the flagship store of the estate. She comments: “Brigg became a destination garden centre, it taught us to

evolve our world from just selling plants, which Woodthorpe was great at, to also then bringing in other areas of the shop floor and how big an opportunity the restaurant was as well.”

So, the business began exploring other opportunities, mainly around the Lincolnshire and Yorkshire areas. “We got to 10 garden centres by buying independents within the Lincolnshire and Yorkshire area mainly,” Stubbs explains. “Then the Wyevale situation happened, which was a big turning point. Charles had an ambition that we would become one of the largest garden centre groups, and saw it was possible to do by taking over the centres that we did. Between 2018 and 2019, we grew to 58 centres – mainly from the Wyevale acquisition. A few extra acquisitions has taken us to the 62 centres we are today.”

The British Garden Centre brand became national, with centres from Brighton to Durham. Going national was always the plan for the family. Stubbs says: “It had always been the dream, but Wyevale allowed us to do that. Charles spent weeks upon weeks driving round all the Wyevale sites and trying to pick them. I remember, we had a massive map of the UK on our living room floor, and we had all these pinpoints where available Wyevale centres were, and we tried to work out which ones were the best ones for us.”

It was her father’s eye for detail, being able to see beyond what was there, that helped the expansion. “Although some of the sites we took over might not have been in the best condition, he looked beyond that and saw potential. There was a big aspiration for us to keep a good cluster around that midlands area, and then we tried to find ones that gave us enough of a cluster to be able to develop them into their own regions so they could have regional managers. There was nothing too out in the sticks,” she explains.

With the growth in stores came the growth in personnel, to the roughly 3,000 staff members the business has now. More central teams were introduced, but right at the heart of everything, is the reinforcing message of British Garden Centres being a family-run business, with family values intrinsically stitched into the culture.

Association membership

Stubbs explains that now the business is where it needs to be after a five-year growth period, one of the next stages of development surrounds the trade bodies of the sector, namely the Garden Centre Association (GCA) and the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA). She says: “Where we have then seen a development in the last couple of years is that we’re able to engage with the GCA so much more than we previously were able to. When we were much smaller, we had lots of engagement with the association and we phased off as we had that big growth, now we’re back.”

It is the initiatives that these associations offer that excite Stubbs. “We’re big believers in the Rising Stars programme and have put forward

a good amount of team members, and we had the winner this year,” she explains. “In terms of the audit process and their standards, again there’s bits that are valuable for us as a business and do encourage us to be better. The difficulty we do face with it is other members of the GCA who don’t face some of the same challenges as we do, trying to roll out what they want as a group. It takes a lot of time, resource and money. We’re very supporting of the GCA and are grateful for the support they give us too.”

With 32 of the centres currently GCA members, Stubbs and her team are pushing to get most of their stores signed up in the not-toodistant future, although, she admits, this will be a gradual process.

Stubbs is now an HTA council member and a member of the Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA) – an initiative she’s passionate about. “Getting younger people into the industry, and recognising that it’s a fabulous, broad industry is so important to build that future. It’s easy for the likes of people like me that have been brought up in the industry to

understand this, but it’s getting new people in and helping them realise how great it is. The key bit, which is my short-term goal, is to encourage more young people into the sector. The YPHA is a great initiative to help achieve this.”

Technology

Stubbs, along with the BGC team, is interested in exploring the use of technology in the business. “The company is starting to introduce more QR codes around our centres and the Family Card, our loyalty programme, can be scanned through our till systems. We do have plans in the future to develop an app for the stores where our Family Card and in-store offers can be accessed at the touch of a button.”

She is also very aware of the business demographic though, and understands that technology can often be off-putting to the “bread and butter” customer. “Covid was a big change to the demographic that uses our stores and we saw a lot of the younger generation come through when people started to recognise the importance of the industry and the benefits of gardening.

“We now want to explore as a business how technology can help our customers with a phased approach. We want to ensure a smooth transition without alienating our existing shoppers but also appeal to our new shoppers.”

WE DO HAVE PLANS IN THE FUTURE TO DEVELOP AN APP FOR THE STORES

Sustainability

A vital subject for all businesses, not just in this sector, is sustainability. Something that our sector is embracing. Stubbs understands the importance of, and challenges to, making the world a better place. She says: “Sustainability means so many things. My dad wanted to build a sustainable future for me, and I want to build a sustainable

future for the rest of the generations to come. The fact is that we are such a powerful industry, in terms of trying to help the government achieve the goals and targets that they need to. We want to do what we can to become a lot more sustainable, and it’s an area that we need to tackle. The realisation is that it’s not just an important thing for the environment, there’s money to be saved, and efficiencies to be had.”

Goals, ambitions and inspiration

We know from an industry perspective, the drive to get young people involved in horticulture is a short-term ambition, and she’s working towards that as a member of many trade associations, but what about her own personal growth plan? “The role I do now means that I tap into many different business areas and I’m on a learning journey of all areas. At some point, I do want to become MD of the business, without a doubt. That’s my big career goal and ambition,” she explains.

Business-wise, Stubbs wants to help with the wider-reaching targets. “We are still striving to become the largest garden centre group

and we want to carry on growing. Our current estate has so much potential, we’ve got over 38 planning permissions to develop our sites and turn those around, which is going to be crazy from a turnover point of view. But also, from an acquisition point of view, there will be appetite for us to keep on growing.”

Towards the end of the time spent with Amy, the question of inspirations came up. “That’s such a tricky question! I am learning something new every day,” she responds. “My dad, Charles, was and still is a big influence on my career. I grew up in the industry and was inspired by his business acumen and became the next generation of Stubbs within the BGC group. My stepmother, Phillippa, has also been a significant inspiration to me, as well as to other women in the horticulture and business industries. She is a crucial leader in this regard, and I am proud of her accomplishments. I spend a lot of time liaising with many exceptional individuals in the sector who stand out for their contributions We are lucky to have such a robust, approachable, and knowledgeable industry.”

NURTURING YOUR team culture

In the garden industry, workplace culture holds a crucial role in the success of businesses. It is essential for improving productivity and innovation, as it fosters teamwork and facilitates the exchange of ideas. By promoting open communication, recognising achievements, and offering growth opportunities, the workplace culture creates a sense of loyalty. This leads to higher levels of employee satisfaction, reduced turnover rates, and increased retention of top talent. Employees who connect with the company’s mission, often develop a sense of purpose in their work, which further contributes to the success of the business.

UK-LEADING GARDEN CENTRES AND GROUPS SHARE WHAT THEY’RE DOING FOR STAFF DEVELOPMENT AND WELFARE

We spoke to several key businesses in the sector to find out how they are fostering a positive culture for employees.

British Garden Centres, the leading familyowned garden centre operator in the UK, has experienced remarkable growth over the past four years, expanding from 10 to 62 sites. Founded by Charles Stubbs, the company’s journey began with Stubbs selling plant cuttings to holidaymakers during his teenage years. The establishment of the first garden centre in 1990 marked the beginning of the business’ ascent and British Garden Centres now own 62 centres and are the largest family-run and second-largest garden centre group in the UK. From Durham in the north to Wimborne in the south and Carmarthen in the west to Ramsgate in the east, the workplace culture has remained true to its humble beginnings.

The success of British Garden Centres is attributed to its dedicated team of over 3,000 individuals who are all part of the family ethos and culture and embody a wealth of knowledge and passion for plants and gardenware.

The Stubbs dynasty and family-led values have also continued with Amy Stubbs, daughter of Charles, at the helm of project and developments throughout the group, as well

as heading up the marketing department. She tells us: “While being the next generation of the family within the company fills me with pride, developing talent from within is ingrained in our business strategy. We empower our managers and their teams, ensuring we have the best individuals driving our success.”

At Fron Goch Garden Centre, the workplace culture is rooted in warmth, openness, and positivity. The Welsh store values trust, kindness, and communication in its daily operations,

CULTURE AND VALUES AREN’T JUST BUZZ WORDS FOR US, THEY REPRESENT HOW WE WANT TO LIVE

fostering a supportive environment where the team thrives. Kati Taylor, head of marketing explains: “Culture and values aren’t just buzz words for us, they represent how we want to live, the standards we believe in and how that reflects

on the business and team. No one wants to work in an environment that’s without clear value.

“We prioritise building trust to make teams feel supported and confident, which leads to fair treatment and a willingness to go above and beyond. During the hiring process, we look for personality and shared values.

“This culture helps not only retain but also attract new team members. Many of our team have been with us for 10-15 years.”

Last year, Tong Garden Centre won the Retail Company of the Year category at the British HR Awards. The Yorkshire Garden Centres group is passionate about instilling a workplace culture and providing employees with a great place to work which has spurred them to enter the awards. Neil Barwise-Carr, head of people, culture & sustainability explains the team culture: “Each month we reward the team for performance and behaviours which align to our core values. This culminates in our Annual Awards Evening, where we recognise Values Champions. Nomination numbers surged from 373 in 2022 to over 1,100 in 2023, showcasing increased engagement. We also communicate through daily and weekly huddles, management meetings, and weekly news updates. There is proactive ‘people & culture’ involvement too, including daily floor walks and shop floor assistance.

“Over the past 18 months, significant improvements have been made, such as revamping probation and appraisal processes into ‘Time to Talks’ via our Employment Hero platform. Additionally, monthly teamfocused events promote wellbeing, covering financial, physical, and mental health, whilst the introduction of company sick pay, enhanced holidays, and the option to buy and sell holidays enrich employee benefits. The launch of the ‘GREAT by Nature’ internal leadership programme also reinforces our commitment to fostering further development.”

Gordale Garden & Home Centre is familyowned, where similar values are at the core of retail and people operations. Stephen ForgacsPritchard, people manager tells us: “Loyalty to our business is confirmed in the 700+ years of combined service from our team, with some soon to hit the 45-year milestone. We want to find individuals who want to be a part of our journey long term and with those colleagues, we are committed to their training and development. We want to go the extra mile for customers but to achieve this, our teams must be engaged and

motivated. Although our ninety staff work across various departments, they are part of one team with one goal. We believe everyone should be provided with the same opportunities to gain experience and develop with us, to learn new skills and achieve their personal career goals.”

“We are also enthusiastic about rewarding performance. Our teams work incredibly hard, and we must recognise that. That is why we are now holding annual late summer events for all our colleagues so they can spend time with each other away from the workplace, have dinner and toast their hard work and achievements.”

supportive and friendly with lots of opportunities for additional training and progression. I started working here as a seasonal member of staff as a summer job, and while I was working, a full-time role became available which I decided to apply for and was successful.”

From a supplier point of view, the workplace culture at family-run Taylors Bulbs is friendly in atmosphere with close personal contact with directors, reflecting the status as a family business. Sue Taylor, HR manager at Taylors tells us: “An open-door policy is firmly in place, ensuring that every member of staff feels comfortable approaching directors with any concerns or issues they may have.

THE IMPACT OF RECRUITMENT EXTENDS BEYOND TALENT ACQUISITION

“Supporting our staff and looking after their wellbeing and mental health is vital to Taylors. We always encourage staff to be proud of a job well done and make sure we meet and exceed our customers’ expectations. With us having a lot of staff with decades of service under their belts, we must encourage those experienced staff to help us develop and mentor younger and newer members of the team. Over half of our full-time employees have been with us for over 15 years.”

Hayden Burton, who has worked for Taylors for nearly two years, added: “Everyone here is

Woodlodge prides itself on being a family-orientated workplace as Michael Wooldridge, explains: “Our company ethos revolves around putting family first, both within our workplace culture and in our customercentric approach.

“From top to bottom, everyone understands their role in achieving our business goals. Whether it’s lending a hand across departments during busy times or ensuring every customer interaction is handled with care, our commitment remains unwavering. This dedication is not just reflected in our daily operations but also our support for employee wellbeing, exemplified by initiatives like our Employee Assistance Programme and support during health issues.

“Our leadership fosters open communication through various channels including email and WhatsApp and actively engages employees through team meetings and social events.”

Chloe Smart, sales administrator says: “The open communication at Woodlodge allows everyone to feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and ideas, with a strong sense of teamwork throughout.”

“I began my journey with Woodlodge in 2002, and have developed alongside the business with great support from the management team and owners. Woodlodge is not only family-owned, but its employees are also a family, with everyone working hard to deliver the best service and products to our loyal customers.” Shamen Blythe, merchandiser, echoes this: “From the office to the staff out in the field, your opinions matter and so do you. That’s a real credit to the foundations within the company.”

The impact of recruitment extends beyond talent acquisition and influences various aspects of the company’s journey, contributing to the development and maintenance of a thriving corporate culture. Felicity Mitchell of leading recruiter, MorePeople sums up the importance of recruiters understanding your business values: “In the ever-evolving landscape of business, one foundational element remains constant: the importance of a positive workplace culture. A positive work environment is the cornerstone of organisational success. From fostering employee wellbeing to driving productivity and innovation, here’s why creating a positive workplace culture is not just beneficial but essential.

“It’s important for businesses to clearly define the core values that they stand for. These could include a passion for plants, commitment to customer service, environmental sustainability, community engagement, and teamwork. Ensure that these values are communicated to all employees and integrated into daily operations.

“Providing opportunities for employee development and growth is also essential.

Simon Neate, regional sales manager adds:

Offering training programmes on customer service skills, leadership development and progression.

Encourage employees to pursue certifications or further education related to horticulture and gardening.

When something is done regularly and consistently with support from all leaders, it doesn’t take long for that to be normal and for all employees living and breathing the culture of your garden centre.”

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Pugh’s Garden Centre is a wellknown, and highly-regarded garden centre in South Wales. Set up by Sydney Pugh in the 1940s, it originally started as a wholesale fruit and vegetable grower working from a nursery and selling from the gate.

In the 1960s, Pugh’s son Colin sold the nursery due to competition from supermarkets, a well-told story for many businesses across the sector, and moved to Morganstown in North Cardiff, the current hometown, for a fresh start.

During the 1970s, the business continued its transformation into a recognisable garden centre, with retail to the public on the agenda. It also saw Colin’s wife Winnie joining the team.

A period of growth occurred in the 1980s, the same decade that the third generation entered the business, with Colin and Winnie’s sons Ian and Graham joining, along with Graham’s wife Helen. They wasted no time, implementing many changes, extensions, and acquisitions.

Fast-forwarding to the current day, Pugh’s is into its fourth generation of directorship, with Nicola and Kara Pugh helping Ian and Graham steer the ship, and members of the Pugh family working within the company.

After the pandemic of 2020, Nicola’s sister Victoria joined the business. The objective, to continue and enhance wellbeing initiatives already implemented, taking them to the next level, with a sole full-time focus. With a history in social services as an occupational therapist, Victoria joined the business to primarily focus on the staff wellbeing, helping to support current initiatives and introduce many more including surveys where staff can anonymously suggest ways to improve the working life of the team. Staff health and wellbeing has always been a primary focus, however with the continuing growth of staffing levels, the family felt a dedicated wellbeing support officer would be an important and necessary role in the business.

Wellbeing WINNERS

LEARN ALL ABOUT THE EXEMPLARY STANDARDS OF STAFF WELLBEING AT PUGH’S GARDEN CENTRE

These days, Pugh’s Garden Centres has four sites with staff, two of which are traditional retail garden centres, one is a commercial growing nursery and in 2021, a new hybrid concept was launched named The Garden Kitchen by Pugh’s. Across all four sites, there is approximately 240 staff members.

Victoria Pugh, wellbeing support officer, explains the staff structure: “We have our director level which is Graham,

Ian, Nicola, and Kara. And then there are our three main group managers including retail, food hall and plants; which cover all sites. We have departmental managers who support their teams, including plant area, garden care, logistics; just to name a few. To ensure the garden centre runs efficiently and smoothly, we also have team in accounts, marketing, HR, visual merchandising, EPoS, Pugh’s nursery, hospitality and housekeeping. Every staff member that works for Pugh’s plays an important role in ensuring that the business is running smoothly.”

On top of the 240 staff members, Pugh’s also retains some seasonal staff, who tend to join the business for busy periods such as Christmas, or the start of the gardening season in spring –some of which go on to be full-time members of the team.

Keeping 240 staff members happy and motivated is no mean feat. One of Victoria’s first tasks was to roll out a staff survey – it’s something that the business aims to send out every six months to make sure they are proactively working on the issues the team encounter, this enables us to benchmark the feedback and set clear KPI’s. Victoria says: “We’ve created an anonymous virtual suggestion box, that we encourage our team to use. One of the questions asked on the wellbeing survey was, ‘what three things would improve happiness and wellbeing in the work environment’, and the majority have put down a suggestion. We then collate all the information and consider any reasonable suggestions and implement as able”

Amy Hawkins, Pugh’s marketing manager, highlights: ‘This has reaped its own benefits for staff members, with office staff requesting

flexible working or working from home, which has since been implemented. Office staff can now choose to work from their own homes for a number of days per week.”

Communication, like anywhere was highlighted as one of the big issues. It’s an area that Victoria still says crops up often on the staff surveys, but they are working on improving that all the time, on top of the improvements already made – e.g. implementing daily buzz meetings to ensure all staff are kept up to date with the latest information and events.

One way the Pugh’s management has tackled this issue is through a staff management platform: Basecamp. All staff communications are uploaded onto the system and send out to team members to keep them updated on the goings on in the business and any extra-curricular activities that they can take advantage of.

These activities have been set up by Victoria and the wider team to improve team cohesion, and there are plenty of initiatives for the team to sign up for. Some initiatives are

STAFF HEALTH AND WELLBEING HAS ALWAYS BEEN A PRIMARY FOCUS

well received and others a little more challenging to initiative; however, we try and implement as many as we can to try and facilitate the needs of our staff, tweaking along the way.

Whilst planning the company’s most recent Christmas events, Pugh’s had the idea of setting up their own choir. After carrying out research, they identified that singing in the workplace can reduce stress levels and depression, provide a sense of community and belonging, deemed to work as an effective painkiller and help improve memory, to name a few. This has already been extremely well received and each session has grown in number due to the feedback from staff.

SINGING IN THE WORKPLACE CAN REDUCE STRESS LEVELS AND DEPRESSION

As well as the choir – which is our most recent wellbeing initiative – we have tried to create something for everyone, including sea swims and challenge charity events have been created, including walking Pen y Fan, and Cycle for Wellbeing. We encourage positive reinforcement with our weekly staff shout outs, this has been proven to boost moral and improve happiness.

If there’s one initiative that Pugh’s are most proud of, though, it is the year-on-year growth of staff engagement to confidently utilise and benefit from the Health Assured Employee assistance programme. This offers immediate accessibility to counselling and advisory services. They have also launched a new Wisdom app which provides an enhanced set of wellbeing tools and engaging features to support wellbeing and wellness.

The next step for Pugh’s is to consolidate its wellbeing strategy for the next year and also look at start staff wellbeing workshops during working hours. It will also be implementing a mental health first aider trainer.

With a host of initiatives lined up for the future, Pugh’s is showcasing what it means to be a conscious employer, and will no doubt reap the benefits of that going forward.

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE FIND PRODUCTS THAT

SPOGA+GAFA RETURNS IN JUNE 2024 FOR A FESTIVAL OF GARDENS AND OUTDOOR LIVING, WITH RESPONSIBLE GARDENS HIGH ON THE AGENDA

The exhibition halls in Cologne (Germany) will be transformed into a hotspot for all the professionals of the green industry again from 16 to 18 June 2024. spoga+gafa, the world’s biggest garden and BBQ trade fair, is inviting the global garden lifestyle industry to attend: Alongside an extensive range of products with the latest trends and inspirations, new business possibilities, exclusive industry know-how and manifold networking events also await you.

Innovations, trends, inspiration

How can a line-up be put together that is not only unique and promises a high turnover, but which also does justice to the customers’ increased demands regarding sustainability? Answers to this pressing question can be found at spoga+gafa.

An extensive, international offer of products and solutions for the design and

care of gardens, balconies and terraces awaits you across 14 exhibition halls. From battery technologies and smart gardening, to plant cultivation and care as well as the respective tools and machines, through to outdoor furniture, BBQs and decoration, manufacturers from all over the globe present their existing and new products as well as current and future trends at the B2B trade fair.

Green responsibility

In the scope of this year’s top theme ‘Responsible Gardens’, together with the green industry, the trade fair is examining the different levels of responsible behaviour in and around private green spaces from the points of view of the manufacturers, suppliers and consumers. Look forward to original solutions, inventive, multifunctional garden tools, environmentally friendly care methods, CO 2 neutral and recycled products and much more,

which allow efficiency and sustainability to be combined when it comes down to garden work.

Furthermore, various special events, expert talks and theme-specific tours address the current challenges of the green industry and the top theme in a practical and solutionoriented manner.

This is where the industry meets up spoga+gafa is far more than merely a trade fair - it is a platform that creates sustainable added value for your company. Take this opportunity to meet up with existing suppliers, establish and further develop new contacts and let yourself be inspired. Boasting the global green industry’s broadest and most in-depth line-up, spoga+gafa is the ideal place for one-stop shopping at the best ordering time.

For further information

see spogagafa.com

How can garden centres appeal to A YOUNGER DEMOGRAPHIC?

TIPS ON ATTRACTING A YOUNGER CROWD, FROM KAY GRIFFITHS AND ELINOR CAYZER, REAL ESTATE ADVISORS IN THE LEISURE AND TRADING DIVISION AT SAVILLS

Garden centres experienced a number of challenges last year, including unseasonal weather during the peak spring/summer trading period, intensified by macroeconomic headwinds, inflation and the cost-of-living crisis, which all disrupted the industry’s traditional rhythm. In addition, operators also experienced a shift in consumer purchasing patterns away from bigger ticket items to smaller basket sizes, resulting in some holding a significant overhang of larger stock.

However, despite a turbulent trading year in 2023 and the lingering uncertainties, garden centres have demonstrated resilience time and time again. As consumers become used to life being a little bit more expensive, we expect garden centres to remain popular, although it will be those operators with an

agile management strategy who can adeptly navigate the changing landscape who are likely to succeed and maintain profitability in the long term.

Shifting consumer preferences

Now is an opportune time for operators to reflect on their existing business models, to proactively adjust their strategies in order to attract and retain a younger customer base for business longevity. Those aged 16-45 now wield significant spending power, with Forbes’ research revealing that they exhibit distinct shopping preferences compared to older generations, prioritising novelty, immersive experiences, health consciousness and value for money. Recognising and catering to these key factors is crucial to align with Generation Z (Gen-Z) and Millennials’ spending patterns.

Leveraging technology

An effective strategy to attract this consumer is utilising technology. Operators can tailor their marketing and product strategies in order to understand what the customer wants to purchase from the centre before they even step foot into the store. Given that the majority of UK social media users are between the ages of 18-34 (94%) (Statista), integrating a user-friendly website with social media platforms can increase engagement and expand online presence. Image-led platforms such as Instagram can also be used to showcase images of products, as well as engaging videos demonstrating gardening tips and techniques.

Diversification of offerings

Between 2021-22, according to the UK Government, almost two in five (39%) of all UK properties sold were to first-time buyers, with the average buyer age being 34. Their requirements for both the products and the garden centre environment differ to those that were traditionally offered. For instance, while sales of conventional

garden centre goods were down in 2023 compared to 2022, revenue from alternative offerings like food halls (10.76%) and gifts (5.44%) increased. The move from traditional income streams fortifies that garden centre customers seek more than just plants and outdoor furniture.

For example, the March 2024 Domestic Sentiment Tracker revealed that 21% of participants are looking for more free things to do on a day out and garden centres may provide the solution. The trend towards site diversification – soft plays, children’s day nurseries and immersive activities like farm parks, mini-golf, “pick your own”, face painting – presents an opportunity to cater to younger audiences.

Embracing wellbeing and sustainability

Urban garden centres are becoming attractive leisure spots, particularly due to their accessibility via public transport. Not only do they offer a green escape from city life, but this growing appetite can be attributed to the rise of agile working and individuals spending more time at home, in addition to the influence of social channels on houseplant sales due to their popularisation on Instagram and Pinterest. The Garden Centre Association outlines that turnover of houseplant sales has grown by 21% since 2020. However, Savills’ research shows

that consumers in urban locations often have limited access to garden products due to the out-of-town site requirements for larger format garden centres, and there is a whole tranche of urban demographic groups whose needs are not currently being met.

There is also a heightened focus for younger consumers around sustainability and the environment. Forbes’ research found that when Gen-Z and Millennial customers believe a brand cares about its impact on people and the planet, they are more likely to make a purchase. Garden centres can differentiate themselves and attract this conscious consumer by supporting local businesses and by prioritising eco-friendly practices such as renewable energy use, reduced pesticide usage and peat-free growing.

Predicting trends

Whilst embracing younger consumers is imperative to futureproof the business, it is crucial that garden centres are still mindful of the spending power of older generations.

Unsurprisingly, older shoppers were a big driver of gardening purchases (Global Blue Data), with 32% of shoppers falling into the 65+ category. Not only do they make up a large proportion of spend, but they also have considerable influence over spending patterns of

those aged 16-45 at garden centres. For example, the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) found that around 25% of 16-34 year-olds ask family and friends for advice around what to purchase.

Looking ahead, while there are uncertainties, this year may see garden centres fall back into a more traditional rhythm, assuming agile management strategies. To epitomise the spending power of the younger generation in garden centres, operators should consider the key factors

THE TREND TOWARDS SITE

DIVERSIFICATION PRESENTS AN OPPORTUNITY TO CATER TO YOUNGER AUDIENCES

driving their purchasing decisions and harness the tools they need to tap into this growing demographic. The spending power of younger generations offers the opportunity for business growth, repeat custom and business longevity.

BELVEO WIND-RESISTANT PARASOLS

BELVEO’S WIND-RESISTANT PARASOLS ARE TRANSFORMING GARDEN RETAIL

Belveo revolutionises the garden retail sector by introducing a wind-resistant parasol, setting a new standard for offerings and customer experience at garden centres. Its parasols, featuring a patented wind protection system, allow garden centres to tap into the premium market segment, promising customers a blend of functionality, elegance, and reliable performance.

Patented wind-resistant technology

Each Belveo parasol is fitted with our patented wind-resistant system. This distinctive technology means our parasols come with two sets of ribs: one which is rigid and remains static, plus a flexible rib incorporated into the canopy. This flexible rib allows the parasol to

adapt to wind forces by mechanically elevating during strong gusts and returning to its natural position as the wind dies down, all with no effort on your part. As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words! Belveo has several explanatory videos which can be found on its homepage here: https://belveo.co.uk/.

Innovation and sustainability at our core

Wind, sun, sea, salty air... outdoor products endure the full force of nature. As a result, all too often and too soon parasol users are compelled to discard their garden furniture and purchase anew. Belveo prides itself on offering windresistant parasols with interchangeable canopies and a product that is 100% repairable in the event of any issues, significantly extending its lifespan. Regarding bases, Belveo takes an innovative stance with the retractable wheeled bases that facilitate the easy re-positioning of the parasol while maintaining unbeatable stability with its weight exceeding 150kg when filled with

water or sand. Belveo doesn’t just stop at windresistant parasols; it also strives to offer clutterfree anchoring systems. Its products, perfect for an individual’s garden, are equally suited to the professional settings of cafes, resorts, and corporate environments.

End-to-end service: A promise of continuity

Belveo’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its products to its bespoke customer service. Belveo offers a unique proposition to garden centres: its team provides direct aftersales service to your customers, offering them a seamless experience, as well as a comprehensive catalogue of spare parts, ensuring that every Belveo purchase is a lasting one.

With its warehouse ideally located in the Midlands, Belveo offers exceptional flexibility to its partners. Contact them today, and they can deliver stock within the week.

Blooming Ambitions

EXPLORE THE HISTORY OF LAYLOCKS AND THE INSPIRING SUCCESS STORY IT HAS BECOME TODAY

Laylocks Garden Centre is an independent, family-owned business that has been supplying its customers for 40 years. Created by Martin Warr in 1973, it started as a premium nursery supplying UK garden centres.

In the early 2000’s, Laylocks went through a transformational process, becoming a recognised garden centre. Increased retail customers flowed through the doors, extensions to the retail area were undertaken and the car park was extended.

WARR WAS KEEN ON EXPANDING A CONDENSED GARDEN ACCESSORIES AND SUNDRIES DEPARTMENT

Hannah Warr joined the business in 2017 and has been integral in the latest update to the business, a newly refurbished and extended garden centre restaurant, increasing the number of seats from 60 to a staggering 151.

But the restaurant is just the latest in a list of developments for Laylocks. Following a meeting with Malcolm Scott Consultants, Warr embarked on her first change. “We put the two apex buildings up. We decided to go for a tall, impactful building as we’re on such a fast road. We were getting quite lost, it’s all Venlo buildings here, so that was the point of having this building with lovely glazing, for that to be our personality,” she explains.

You may have guessed from the dates, but the excitement soon turned to despair as covid took hold and shut the country down. Warr says: “We had to close after five days for the pandemic. Dad and I were walking around the centre thinking how we were going to do this? But fortunately for us, we were only closed for 11 weeks. We reopened and ever since that, our sales have increased year by year.”

This extension allowed the business to install a deli and farm shop, but the one thing Warr was keen on was expanding a condensed garden accessories and sundries department, allowing the business to cater for their bread-and-butter gardening customers. Warr explains: “I want to keep us as a traditional garden centre. I don’t want us to go commercialised, I don’t want concessions. I want to keep that personality of a traditional garden centre and in turn, our department for all garden accessories and sundries, tools, everything like that, was too small and, as we expanded everything else it got condensed and it wasn’t giving the message that we were here for the gardeners. So that’s where we wanted to increase again so we could offer the gardeners that range of gardening products.”

The restaurant

As part of the development of the site, Warr and the team were keen to expand the restaurant. The grand opening of the new centre happened just before Easter this year, which included two building extensions and the installation of an open canopy.

And there was no external help with the restaurant’s development, Warr and her sister, who helped design the interior, tackled this challenge themselves. They used furniture from antique and charity shops, creating a contemporary and modern fusion – much like the recognisable Lounges restaurants –giving it a wonderfully calming, homely environment.

Warr comments: “I find it very cosy. Anywhere you go, you’re in your own little area. We designed it together from the front of house which I designed two years ago. We brought the colours into the restaurant. For me to save money on the budget, we’ve put in wooden flooring, but we’ve left the carpet down with the idea that we’ll get to it in the future, however, it’s quite nice because it breaks everything up. It all works together.”

Sat in the restaurant on a spring morning, a sense of calm is brought on by the views through the glass facade running the length of the space into a children’s play area surrounded by trees, and the birdsong coming in through the openings in the roof.

That play area has had its impact on the business, too. Warr explains: “The play area has been a great hit; it’s enclosed so parents can relax and can be rest assured that their children are

WE QUICKLY REALISED IT HAS BECOME THE HUB OF THE GARDEN CENTRE.

able to play safely. It’s also got lovely, huge trees out there, it just makes everything feel calm. We’ve put a load of brand-new garden furniture out there and we’ve revamped that area to become a nice place to sit and enjoy.”

The menu

Having increased the size of the restaurant by 250%, Warr and her kitchen team have made changes to the menu. She explains “There was too much on the menu. I’ve had a look around elsewhere to see what other people are doing, and we were doing too much for the kitchen. We’ve had to reduce it to be able to cope.”

All food is prepared each morning, each dish is made to order, and the ingredients used are as local as they can possibly be. Warr explains: “We keep everything to local produce as much as we can. We also use the deli – the chef and the deli

supervisor liaise. They help each other with food waste. We also use the same meats in the restaurant and deli.” They use a local butcher, local bread supplier, as well as produce from three local counties too.

Staffing

Reflecting on the changes, Warr comments: “It’s been a learning curve for me. I said to all the staff that when we get bigger, we’re not going to fill [the positions] straight away, and we filled [them] straight away.

“I’m also about to recruit two new chefs in the kitchen and front of house. We’ve now got two supervisors instead of one, and we need two more on the front of house team, as well as another two kitchen porters.”

Revenue

Last year saw the garden centre put an 8% increase year on year in turnover, and the 60-seater restaurant was previously responsible for 20% of all revenue.

But this year has proven difficult to forecast. Warr has forecasted an overall 15% turnover increase across the whole business, but the restaurant has proved trickier. She says: “This year, I’ve forecasted for the restaurant,

and it’s already been blown out of the water. Comparing this March to last year, bearing in mind that we’ve had the opening, Mother’s Day and Easter, which would’ve been kind of similar, we are expecting a 100% increase on takings.”

Customers

Previously, it may have been current customers who have been browsing the centre using the restaurant, but in the weeks since the grand reopening, Warr has noticed that more customers are coming in for the restaurant, and then browsing the store as a byproduct. She explains, “We quickly realised that it has become the hub of the garden centre. It’s so important for us, we’ve got a pull for it, and a demand for it. For us to fill it straight off the bat, shows how many people we were turning away last year because they couldn’t get in.”

And customer feedback has been great. “I want to make Laylocks Garden Centre a destination, and I want people to enjoy their visit.

All these developments have been done for the customer, and for an enjoyable experience.”

Warr has undeniably been successful with the remarkable development of the centre, and is eager to continue nurturing and enhancing it for the benefit of both the business and its customers.

INTRODUCING THE ORIGINAL BAKER

ELEVATE YOUR OFFERINGS WITH THE ORIGINAL BAKER –PROVIDING YOUR GARDEN CENTRE WITH HANDCRAFTED DELIGHTS THAT OFFER UNMATCHED FLAVOUR AND QUALITY

At The Original Baker, our journey began with a simple love for outstanding pastry and a dedication to using only the finest ingredients. What started as a small venture rooted in cherished recipes quickly blossomed into an award-winning business.

Today, our exquisite range of products graces the shelves of farm shops and delis across the country, distinguished by our unwavering commitment to excellence. Each item that we offer is handcrafted by our skilled bakers, using our time-honoured recipes passed down through the generations.

Drawing on years of experience and expertise, we now present a comprehensive solution for all your food hall needs. Recognising the growing demand for convenience, whilst never compromising on taste, we’ve perfected our recipes, sourced premium ingredients, and meticulously crafted each product to offer you the ultimate culinary experience.

Our products arrive raw-frozen, ready to be baked on-site, minimising waste and filling your

establishment with irresistible aromas. This not only reduces waste but also ensures that customers enjoy the freshest flavours.

Whether you’re serving our products on your deli counter or showcasing them on your cafe menu, you can be sure that customers will delight in the flavour of our all-butter pastry and premium ingredients.

For added convenience, we offer fully branded in-store freezers, providing your customers the opportunity to purchase our products to enjoy in the comfort of their own homes.

Our team provides seamless setup and ongoing support, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Detailed planograms, comprehensive sales plans and product sampling events are just some of the ways in which your area manager can

help you to boost awareness, drive sales and effortlessly grow your customer base, while our dedicated sales team are only a phone call away for quick and easy ordering when it’s time to restock.

We also offer a wide range of irresistible ambient cakes and biscuits, beautifully handdecorated and boasting impressive shelf lives. Paired with eye-catching display stands designed to attract customers, these products are perfect for enhancing your food hall offerings.

To find out more about how to stock our award-winning products, visit us at stand A80 at the Garden Centre Expo. For further information, head over to our website at theoriginalbaker. co.uk, or give us a call on 01653 699855.

The in garden centres TOP TREES TO STOCK

DISCOVER HORTICULTURAL EXCELLENCE WITH FRANK P MATTHEWS’ TOP 12 TREES

In the world of gardening and horticulture, the role of trees extends far beyond their environmental benefits. Trees shape the character of our landscapes, provide fresh fruits, offer shade, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of our surroundings.

Frank P Matthews is one of the UK’s largest tree nurseries, nurturing and distributing over one million trees to the wholesale market annually. Established in 1901 in Middlesex, we relocated in the 1950s to our 450 acre nursery set in the idyllic Worcestershire countryside, along the banks of the river Teme. It’s a fourth-generation family business with a passion for all things trees. After over 100

years in the business, Frank P Matthews has a good idea of what sells. Its expertise lies in recognising the varieties that not only thrive in diverse conditions but also meet the aesthetic and practical needs of gardeners and landscapers.

This comprehensive guide highlights the top 12 trees that are indispensable for stocking. The selection is divided equally between fruit and ornamental trees, ensuring a balanced offering that caters to various customer preferences.

Fruit trees: Enhancing gardens with flavour and colour

The cultivation of fruit trees is a rewarding endeavour that brings beauty and bounty to gardens. Our recommended fruit trees are celebrated for their delectable fruits, ease of care, and resilience.

Apple ‘Scrumptious’

The ‘Scrumptious’ apple tree is a standout for its self-fertility, meaning it doesn’t require another tree for pollination. It produces medium-sized, red-skinned apples with a sweet flavour, ready for harvest in early to mid-September. This variety is particularly resistant to scab, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners.

Apple ‘Christmas Pippin’

An excellent addition for extended harvesting, ‘Christmas Pippin’ offers crisp, aromatic fruits with a fine, sweet flavour. Its vigour and productivity make it a popular choice among gardeners looking for reliable yield and exceptional taste.

Apple ‘Rosette’

The ‘Rosette’ apple is distinguished by its unique red flesh, offering a visually striking addition to any garden. It is not

only a conversation starter, but also produces delicious fruits with a slightly tangy flavour –perfect for fresh eating and cooking.

Pear ‘Conference’

The ‘Conference’ pear is a testament to the virtues of reliability and versatility. Its fruits are sweet and juicy, ideal for eating fresh or cooking. This variety is particularly hardy, capable of thriving in a range of climatic conditions, and is self-fertile, enhancing its appeal to gardeners.

Cherry ‘Felicita’

Compact and prolific, the ‘Felicita’ cherry tree is perfect for smaller gardens. It yields sweet, dark red cherries and is self-fertile, eliminating the need for a pollination partner. Its adaptability and manageable size make it a favoured choice. We introduced this variety last season.

Plum ‘Toptaste’

The ‘Toptaste’ plum is celebrated for its exceptional flavour, producing large, juicy fruits that are perfect for eating fresh. This variety is also noted for its disease resistance, offering a robust option for growers seeking both taste and hardiness.

Ornamental trees: Crafting landscapes with beauty and grace

Ornamental trees play a crucial role in landscaping, providing structure, shade, and seasonal interest. Our selection includes varieties that offer stunning floral displays, unique foliage, and striking forms.

Prunus ‘Starlight’

The ‘Starlight’ cherry tree is admired for its abundant spring blossoms of white flowers, set against glossy green leaves. It exhibits excellent resistance to disease, making it a resilient and beautiful addition to any garden.

Starlight is a new variety that we introduced last season.

Prunus ‘Beni Yutaka’

‘Beni Yutaka’ is renowned for its breathtaking display of pink blossoms in spring. This cherry tree adds a touch of romance and elegance to the landscape, making it a must-have for those seeking spectacular spring colour.

Sorbus ‘Pink Charm’

The ‘Pink Charm’ Mountain Ash features attractive clusters of pink berries in autumn, accompanied by vibrant autumn foliage. This tree offers multi-season interest and serves as a magnet for wildlife, adding both beauty and biodiversity to gardens.

Malus ‘Red Sentinel’

The ‘Red Sentinel’ crab-apple is notable for its vibrant red fruits, which persist well into winter, providing a stunning visual display and a vital food source for birds. Its resilience and decorative appeal make it a popular choice among gardeners and landscape designers.

Betula ‘Snow Queen’

Also known as the Himalayan Birch, ‘Snow Queen’ is prized for its striking white bark and elegant, upright form. This tree creates a dramatic contrast in the landscape, especially in winter, making it a focal point in any garden setting.

Cercis ‘Ruby Falls’

A weeping form of the Eastern Redbud, ‘Ruby Falls’ offers cascading branches adorned with pink flowers in spring. Its unique form and striking floral display make it an ideal choice for adding drama and elegance to landscape designs.

landscape but also to enrich it with diversity, productivity, and ecological benefits.

These trees represent the pinnacle of horticultural achievement, combining aesthetic beauty, resilience, and utility. By offering these varieties, garden centres can cater to a broad spectrum of gardening enthusiasts, from those looking to cultivate their own fresh fruits to those seeking to transform their outdoor spaces with ornamental beauty.

In curating this selection of twelve trees, Frank P Matthews has focused on varieties that promise not only to beautify the

At Frank P Matthews, we are committed to supplying the highest quality trees to the wholesale market, and our selection reflects the expertise and passion we bring to the horticultural world. As the seasons change and gardening trends evolve, these varieties remain timeless in their appeal and functionality. We encourage garden centres and their customers to explore the unique characteristics and benefits of each tree, fostering a deeper connection with nature and enriching the tapestry of our landscapes. We have a range of POS marketing materials and support available to garden centres who stock our trees.

If you would like to learn more about our business or our products visit frankpmatthews.com or contact us directly at enquiries@fpmatthews.co.uk.

Products Hand tools

TOOLS THAT WILL COME IN HANDY AROUND YOUR CUSTOMERS’ GARDENS

Dutch Garden Spade

Talen Tools

With Dutch Garden, you will ‘go pro’ in your garden or patio. High quality stainless steel and strong FSC-certified (responsible forestry) ash wood characterise these garden tools, so you can enjoy your spades, rakes or cultivators for many seasons to come. Through years of experience, Dutch Garden knows the aspects of user-friendly garden tools. Maintaining your garden, lawn or patio starts with durable and traditional materials from Dutch Garden.

RRP £42.00 talentools.de

Multifunction Feed Gun

Greenkey Garden & Home

Give your customers tools to transform and value that thrills! Unleash their plant envy with Greenkey’s NEW Multifunction Feed Gun. You have the food, let’s supply the gun to feed the plants. Help your customers cultivate those blooming blooms. Easy to unscrew reservoir, with measurements. Eight spray patterns. Thumb operated flow control. Metal body for durability with soft moulded casing. Fully compatible with all major hose fittings.

AMES Tools Range AMES

Amtech 8 Function Car Wash & Garden Sprayer

DK Tools Ltd

This versatile and award-winning car wash and garden sprayer has eight spray patterns: shower, mist, cone, rinse, stream, flat, centre and jet. Fitting any standard halfinch garden hose connector, the hose foam sprayer has a 100ml variable soap/liquid feed dispenser container with a handy flow control dial. It is ideal for car washing, applying lawn care, or other plant feeds.

RRP £13.99 dktools.com

AMES Tools new for 2024 – featuring a wide range of hand tools, providing consumers with solutions to all their gardening needs. All the tools in the range are beautifully made with Ash wood handles, carbon steel heads for optimal strength and wear resistance and a rust resistant black paint finish. Products in the range include hand trowel, hand transplanter, hand fork, hand three-prong cultivator, hand bulb planter, hand dibber, hand daisy grubber and hand patio weeder.

Tool prices available on website. ames-tools.co.uk

ALPEN Gelbhorn 150 Pruning Shears

ALPEN (Burton McCall Ltd – UK distributor)

Professionals and savvy home gardeners will notice at first glance the Swiss precision in the Gelbhorn 150 Pruning Shears. Its fully chromed blade ensures a clean cut, up to 20mm. The Gelhorn’s corrosion-resistant guarantee means that it will be your go-to secateur for many seasons to come. ALPEN is a new brand of gardening tools, born in the heart of the Alps and a sister company of FELCO.

RRP £29.99

burton-mccall.co.uk

Razorsharp® Easy Reach Telescopic Pruner

Spear & Jackson

A new lightweight, easy to use cutter that is ideally suited to light pruning work in hard-to-reach places. The telescopic handle may be extended from 1250mm to 2000mm and the adjustable handle grip may be positioned and fixed at points along the shaft to suit the individual user. The body and cutting head rotate to give the best cutting angle, and a cut and hold mechanism is ideal for capturing cut fruit or flowers.

RRP £59.99

spear-and-jackson.com

Greenman Multi Hoe and Cultivator

Greenman Garden Tools

Experience the efficiency of Greenman’s Multi Hoe and Cultivator, the ultimate tool for garden perfection. Its dualaction design features a three-prong cultivator for meticulous weeding and soil aeration, paired with a sharp hoe blade for cutting through compacted earth and stubborn roots. The robust ash handle ensures comfort and durability, making it a staple for any gardening enthusiast seeking quality and practicality in their toolkit.

RRP £14.95

greenmangardentools.com

Bamboo 5-in-1 Trowel

Darlac

Bamboo is not the word that springs to mind when you think of hand tools. However, Darlac has engineered an extensive range of premium hand tools that feature a heritage, stainless steel blades married to an ergonomically designed bamboo handle. Why choose bamboo? Well, bamboo being a grass is 100% sustainable, superior in strength and very lightweight.

Don’t forget to check out

the Bamboo 5-in-1 Trowel!

RRP £13.99 darlac.com

Kew Gardens Woodland Collection

Spear & Jackson

A new range of cutting tools, including shears, loppers, and secateurs. Thoughtfully developed with sustainably sourced FSC® wooden handles in support of responsible forestry management and biodiversity. Strong, durable carbon steel blades deliver razor-sharp cutting performance. Each tool is tested and fully endorsed by the horticultural team at the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, and every sale ensures a contribution towards the continuation of Kew’s vital conservation work.

RRP Loppers - £49.99; Shears - £39.99; Secateurs - £22.99 spear-and-jackson.com

Draper Heritage Stainless Steel Hand Fork & Trowels Set

Draper Tools

Hand tools with heritage: Featuring two hand trowels and a fork, this popular set is part of Draper’s Heritage collection, a range of quality tools with a traditional style. Each tool is made from high quality stainless with lacquered ash handles sourced from a sustainable and responsibly managed forest or plantation. An essential set designed to appeal to the discerning gardener, it comes with Draper’s lifetime warranty.

RRP £18.99

drapertools.com

RHS-endorsed planting trowel

Burgon & Ball

This top-selling trowel took top honours for ‘Garden Tools and Machinery’ in the GIMA Awards 2023. The ergonomic design makes it ideal for shallow digging and scooping, with a wide, flat head to move soil quickly. The eye-catching shape makes it desirable, even to gardeners who already own a trowel.

With the prestigious endorsement of the RHS and a lifetime guarantee, gardeners know they’re buying a quality hand tool.

RRP £12.99

burgonandball.com

October

Securing a Brighter Future.

Embark on a journey along our Sustainability Trail at Garden Centre Expo 2024, where you’ll find companies deeply committed to sustainable practices. Whether they specialise in supplying solar panels, EV chargers or environmentally friendly retail products, these businesses prioritise the wellbeing of the planet and the best practices of garden centre operators.

Improve the sustainability of your business with the likes of...

Sustainability Panel With...

Mark Farnsworth

MD at Yorkshire Garden Centres

Winners of multiple sustainability awards

gardencentreexpo.co.uk

In partnership with

Representing sustainability as a core pillar of the event, the Sustainability Trail is designed to highlight the key exhibitors who are either helping the market to become more sustainable in every area, to achieve net-zero, or who have products that are individually sustainable.

This exciting new feature also acts as a roadmap for our visitors, enabling them to quickly identify exhibitors offering products, services, or solutions that can help pave the way towards a more sustainable future for their businesses.

Garden Centre Expo will take place on 15-16 October 2024 at the ExCeL London. Register for you free tickets here!

Luke Page, portfolio director

@gardencentreexpo

is now

a cost that businesses ENERGY CANNOT IGNORE

JAMES HALLIGAN FROM ENERGY MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP

SHARES HOW THE COMPANY PROVIDES GARDEN CENTRES WITH SOLUTIONS TO ACHIEVE SIGNIFICANT SAVINGS

When I sold my accountancy practice in 2019, I retained the energy consultancy area as I loved the positive effect on increasing businesses’ bottom line. There is a skill in negotiating with energy companies, which we have perfected.

This is the first time we have advertised our services. Until now, we’ve grown by referral.

Our skill is taking businesses with multiple sites, supplies and suppliers, and combining them all into one contract, which we take to the market to get the best possible market price for our clients.

Many things can affect the cost – the time of year you renew, length of the contract, the way you pay, your credit rating, your overall spend. We typically save our clients more than 20% on the market rate available to them compared to if they approach energy companies directly.

We get paid by the energy company that is successful in winning our client’s contracts, and our commission is disclosed on the contract.

Typically, garden centres start small, then grow as they acquire other garden centres –and I can almost guarantee that each of those garden centres has a different energy contract, different renewable dates, different rates, and they are not using their full bargaining power.

As a director of a garden centre, if you recognise yourself in this, allow us to help to increase your bottom line and increase the value of your business.

Will this happen again to energy prices? Probably, but we protect our clients...

you very little opportunity to research cheaper options. If you negotiate just before your renewable date, you have no buying power. We monitor our clients’ usage to make sure it is in line with expectations, and where appropriate, we will advise of any unexpected usage.

OVER 90% OF OUR CLIENTS USE GREEN ENERGY SOURCED AT NO EXTRA COST.

OVER 90% OF OUR CLIENTS ESCAPED THE DAMAGING INCREASES IN COSTS CAUSED BY THE ENERGY CRISIS.

As an example, when a new company approached us, we discovered they had 36 different supplies with six different energy companies, and 19 different price levels, with a 30% difference between the highest and the lowest. Some of their subsidiaries pay monthly, others quarterly, and they were on multiple renewable dates. Now, there is only one contract and they are saving over £100,000 each year. We have the ability to renew contracts a year in advance of renewable dates. So where appropriate, we advise our clients well in advance if an opportunity to renew arises at a rate less than the projected rate closer to their renewable date. We are not like typical brokers. As you well know, brokers send out quotations within a couple of weeks of the renewable date, giving

An example of this, is a client who has a large warehouse in Derby where the night manager turned on every light and heater on as soon as he arrived. His excuse was he was making it comfortable for the people coming in later for the day shift, but this cost the company approximately £20,000pa on wasted energy.

On a positive note, we now see 90% of our clients use green energy sourced at no extra cost, as well as over 90% of our clients having escaped the damaging increases in costs caused by the energy crisis.

I know most FD’s get inundated with emails and telephone calls from energy brokers. However, we are not like them; we are here to be your partners for years to come.

Energy is a cost that businesses cannot ignore! We will be with you every step of the way.

James Halligan

james@energymanagementworkshop.com

07719056457

Peter Bryant

peter@energymanagementworkshop.com

07710077562 | 01233 225403

Products Wild animal care

PRODUCTS TO ENHANCE BIRD WELLFARE ON THEIR FLYING VISITS TO CUSTOMERS’ GARDENS

Multibracket “Classic” – green Meripac

The versatile and unique rust-proof Multibracket can be easily fixed to and removed from many different surfaces, outdoors and indoors. The arm can be angled so that hanging items can be seen clearly from indoors when the Multibracket is fixed close to a window. Birds are a safe but highly visible distance from a window.

RRP £15 meripac.com

Cleaner Window Feeder

Finches Friend

Cleaner Window Feeder is a far cry away from the industry-standard, open food concept, and stops birds from being able to walk and defecate in the feed, preventing cross contamination. A removable feed station makes cleaning easy and convenient. The two feeding perches and smaller trough-shaped feed areas, ensure food stays clean and dry. Perfect for urban areas, smaller gardens or for anyone who wants to feel closer to nature.

RRP £23.95

finchesfriend.com

Woolie the Sheep Wildlife World

Premium nesting material: Filled with topnotch natural sheep’s wool, ‘Woolie’ offers a five-star hotel bed filler for your feathered friends.

The wool’s unbeatable combination of strength, softness, and warmth. Supporting birdlife: Birds in the UK are facing challenges finding the right materials for their nests due to urbanisation and habitat loss.

Charming ceramic design: ‘Woolie’ features a frost-resistant glazed ceramic sheep design, adding an attractive and charming touch to your garden decor. Its durable construction ensures longevity.

RRP £5.99

wildlifeworldtrade.co.uk

Seed & Mealworm Suet Cookie Gardman

The Gardman Seed & Mealworm Suet Cookie is a high energy treat for wild birds that is bright and colourfully packaged to capture customer interest in store. The treat is purposefully packaged to attract a younger audience into the wild bird feeding category, as well as increasing basket spend through creating impulse buy opportunities for retailers. It’s suitable for year-round feeding and can be simply placed on bird feeding stations. It is also packaged in 100% recyclable packing and manufactured in the UK.

RRP £4.99

gardenhealth.com

Complete Seed Mix Peckish

Peckish is the UK’s leading wild bird care brand, and the Complete Seed Mix is a unique blend of 12 seeds specifically chosen to attract a wide variety of colourful birds to gardens. The Complete Seed Mix range, which comes in a selection of weights, is sustainably sourced and is packaged in 100% recyclable paper packaging that can be conveniently collected at the kerbside, so both retailers and their customers can feel good about feeding wild birds.

RRP £4.99 for 1.7kg

peckishbirdfood.com

Products Gardening Apparel

GLOVES DESIGNED TO KEEP YOUR FINGERS COSY AND READY FOR ANY OUTDOOR TASK

Gold Leaf Tough Touch Gardening Gloves

Jayco (UK) Ltd

The unique and unmatchable Gold Leaf range are the ONLY gardening gloves endorsed by The Royal Horticultural Society and are now widely recognised as “The World’s Finest”! The TOUGH TOUCH TM is a closefitting gardening glove, offering a high level of protection against thorns and the like. Offering exceptional comfort, warmth and being treated for resistance to water, this unique gauntlet is made from superior deerskin leather, which affords both durability and dexterity for a close so robust as this.

RRP £28.95

goldleaf-gloves.com

Kew Gardens Eco-Kind Gloves

Spear & Jackson

Made using recycled Polyester, 25% of the composition of each pair is recycled, the equivalent of one 500ml recycled plastic bottle per pair, and the manufacturing process used to make them conserves 8-16ml of oil and 14-28g of CO 2 versus standard glove production. They have recycled polyester backs with a water-resistant coating, effective for up to five washes at 30C, and

Ultralight Ankle Boots

LBC Boots UK

Feverfew Original Women’s Gardening Gloves

Feverfew Garden Company

Feverfew Garden’s ladies’ gloves are the musthave gardening essential in the UK this summer. Designed by Rachel Eunson, these lightweight gloves combine comfort, style, and protection, earning the BBC gardenersworld.com Best Buy award. Featuring touchscreen fingertips, a convenient clip, and padding for durability, they’re specifically tailored for women’s hands in four sizes and two stylish colours. No more one size fits all, these gloves offer functionality with fashion, empowering female gardeners.

RRP

feverfewgarden.co.uk

LBC Ultralight Ankle Boots redefine comfort and durability in footwear. Available in eight vibrant colours, they cater to both men and women at an affordable price point. These lightweight boots offer a sustainable alternative to traditional PVC footwear, with removable machine washable liners ensuring hygiene and longevity. Often described as ‘the Lightest Wellingtons you’ll ever wear’, they combine style and comfort, making them perfect for everyday outdoor activities.

RRP £39.99

lbcboots.com

June 2024 Sustainability Special

The Carbon Literacy Project

Millbrook Garden Company

Sustainable product alternatives

Pollinator-friendly plants

The Sustainable Restaurant Association …and more!

With you from 29 May 2024

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