Our members recently took part in a virtual forum to discuss the challenges they faced with the re-opening of restaurants and cafés. The forum was facilitated by Chris Brown of Turpin Smale Catering Consultants and attendees included principals, managers and catering managers, who were able to share ideas, information and best practice. One of the…
A new joint initiative between us and The Garden Industry Manufacturer’s Association (GIMA) has launched to enable debate and communication between retailers and suppliers (July 2020). A programme of joint virtual forums between members of both associations has been created to aid healthy debate to enable a stronger, more resilient, and dynamic supply chain going…
There’s something special about spending time in our outdoor spaces in the evening. It’s the relaxing antidote we need to a busy working week, so why not create a backyard, patio, balcony or garden that shines at night. Here’s how: Let there be light Highlight your garden’s best feature using lights. There are lots to…
Houseplants are back in fashion. They can complement the colour themes of your home and they aren’t difficult to look after either. An indoor plant is in fact a home accessory, bought to emphasise a look or to make a statement, and they help purify the air in addition to adding freshness and life to…
Furniture and barbecues were the biggest sellers when garden centres re-opened in May (2020) according to our Barometer of Trade report. Sales were up 24.19% compared to the same month in 2019. It was devastating to see our beloved garden centres across the country forced to close due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Not only did…
As summer is officially upon us, you might be spending more time in your outdoor dining area enjoying picnics and barbecues, depending on the great British weather of course. It’s a good idea to think carefully about the different plants you place around your outdoor dining area. You’ll want ones that stimulate all the senses…
Houseplants not only look beautiful, but research shows that they greatly improve your health and wellbeing too! For centuries the Chinese have used houseplants to create ‘living energy’ in their homes and workplaces. Scientific studies have proven that houseplants are good for you – physically, emotionally and psychologically as they: Remove harmful chemicals from the…
The rose was given the title ‘The Queen of Flowers’ as long ago as 600BC. No other flower is more popular in this country and, with its multiple uses, it can be recommended for the adornment of gardens both large and small. Few shrubby genera can surpass roses for adaptability to a variety of situations…
We often go to our favourite place to relax, calm down and clear our minds. Surrounding ourselves with plants can be beneficial to our health, mood and well-being To create your own oasis it is important to choose the ideal spot, this could be a sunny, shady or secluded area within your garden, patio or balcony. Try to think about…
If you have a small outdoor space and would like to grow some of your own veggies and fruit, then you can! Here’s how: Make the most of limited space by growing things that give you a quick return such as French or runner beans trained over a tripod of bamboo canes or hazel rods…