In This Issue
Johnsons Lawn Seed's new formula to ensure continued growth of best sellers
Gardman launch 'owner's manual' for Moulton Mill
Kelkay MD Antony Harker joins the casualty list
The Tildenet Group appoints Edward Cantle as Retail Sales Manager
New-look pre-packs catch the eye at Taylors Bulbs
The world's finest garden rooms, now under your own brand name
Come and meet the Iron Man at Glee!
Gardman's extended Garden & Home range turns on the style
Heritage Birdhouse Collection hit the right note with visitors to the Deco-Pak stand
Bord na Móna launches new 'single brand strategy' at Glee
Adam Wigglesworth becomes HTA President at Glee
Glee New Product Awards 2015 results
Bring back the joy of gardening with Gripeeze
Green Digit win the second GIMA Innovator’s Seed Corn Fund
It's time to Go Wild again says Peckish
Clever, functional and unique gift ideas from Forked Up Art
Lows unveil unique designs for classic pieces
Twool – rare breeds have their uses
Kiln dried logs are a hit for CPL
Glee Buyers Power List 2015: and the winners are…
Westland 'Sow Smart' sets out to revolutionise tomato growing
Tarmac launch new range of gardening products
Handy Distribution prove that Gardena products are frost-proof
Woodlodge launch Heritage Bistro set
Fruity pouffe wins Glee's garden leisure new product award
Award means Baksaver Barrow is Glee's best new bit of kit
Melcourt SylvaGrow...RHS endorsed and a Glee winner
Petface's fresh approach to the bird sector wins award
Spear & Jackson - something for any ‘occasion’
Acclaim for Hozelock's hi-tech watering solution
Raspberry ‘Ruby Beauty’ wins new product award
Small is beautiful at Vivid Arts
Findlaters discover a 'new niche'
Natural seeds, herbs and plants to enhance meals
Smiemans Projecten announce two new contracts at Glee
Trans-Continental launch Terra Flame Outdoor Collection
Miracle-Gro 'Gro-ables' make it easier to grow your own
La Hacienda to distribute stylish Artevasi pots and planters
Peter Rabbit...now screening on the Treadstone stand
Glee Daily News team on hand to bring you all the news
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Johnsons Lawn Seed's new formula to ensure continued growth of best sellers
Stand 18H26-K25
Market leading lawn seed supplier Johnsons Lawn Seed is re-launching its bestselling General Purpose, Tuffgrass, Quick Fix and Quick Lawn products with a new formula at Glee 2015...
Market leading lawn seed supplier Johnsons Lawn Seed is re-launching its bestselling General Purpose, Tuffgrass, Quick Fix and Quick Lawn products with a new formula at Glee 2015.

Set to stimulate further profit growth for retailers in 2016, the mixtures have all been improved to ensure quicker germination and establishment, in lower temperatures. The newly formulated bestsellers also now have a higher tolerance to drought, are designed to develop greener lawns, and require less fertiliser and watering than standard grasses.

The newly reformulated mixtures are a result of Johnsons Lawn Seed's commitment to developing innovative products, supported by an extensive grass research and breeding programme. With parent company DLF Trifolium supplying the top sporting venues and world class tournaments, the new formulations have already been successfully implemented and are now ready to once again win over a wider consumer audience.

The improvements that have been introduced bring popular existing tried and tested products fully up to date to match more recent additions to the brands portfolio, and feature the following benefits:

  • Quicker germination and establishment - shoots can now appear in as little as 4 days, and grass can be maintained without any extra mowing
  • Ability to sow at even lower temperatures -  as low as 3°C thanks to advancements in DLF's developmental research into ryegrass varieties
  • Improved colour - greener all year round
  • Better drought tolerance - deeper root systems mean less reliance on sprinkler systems
  • Less water and fertiliser needed - stronger roots mean stronger, healthier and greener lawns

Johnsons Lawn Seed's consumer manager Guy Jenkins says the reinvigorated mixes being launched at Glee this year will be great news for retailers. 

"At Johnsons Lawn Seed we are committed to constantly improving our products, and this year we have focussed on top performing products that are already highly rated by consumers and retailers alike.  The new formulations all feature the very latest in grass seed technology, enabling consumers to have greener lawns year round with the minimum of fuss, as well as making repeat sales even easier for the retailer."

Find out more

To find out more about Johnsons Lawn Seed, visit www.johnsonslawnseed.com, email consumer@dlf.co.uk, or telephone 01386 791113.

 
Gardman launch 'owner's manual' for Moulton Mill
Gardman are backing up the premium credentials of their Moulton Mill garden tools brand with a new ‘Owner’s Manual’ designed to instill pride of ownership...

 Gardman are backing up the premium credentials of their Moulton Mill garden tools brand with a new ‘Owner’s Manual’ designed to instill pride of ownership. 

 The manual, to be offered as a takeaway from in-store Moulton Mill merchandisers, gives consumers a host of hints and tips on the aftercare of their new purchases and expert advice on choosing the right tools for the job. It was written with the help of acclaimed gardening journalist and broadcaster Martin Fish, an accredited Royal Horticultural Society judge.

 Moulton Mill garden tools are timeless tools built to last and appeal to discriminating gardeners who are ready to trade up to the best money can buy. They carry an industry-leading 15 years guarantee.

 The range is on target for a turnover of more than £5 million since its launch a year ago.   

Kelkay MD Antony Harker joins the casualty list


Kelkay managing director Antony Harker has joined Glee's 'walking wounded'. Antony is pictured on crutches along with Alton Garden Centre's Derek Bunker in front of Kelkay's display of their new 'handy packs' of aggregates...

Kelkay managing director Antony Harker has joined Glee's 'walking wounded'. Antony is pictured on crutches along with Alton Garden Centre's Derek Bunker in front of Kelkay's display of their new 'handy packs' of aggregates.

Antony said he has torn a cartilage in his hip playing football while Derek, who was pictured in yesterday's Glee Daily News with Klondyke's Bob Hewitt, claimed to have picked up his injury while skydiving.

"The hardest working people in this industry are on crutches," added Derek.

Kelkay introduces new range of handy packs and extends decorative aggregates range

Taking the most popular decorative products – Natural Slate, White Sparkle, Alpine Grit, Autumn Gold and Washed Pebbles are now available for smaller areas and finishing touches. Ideal for plant pot toppings, interiors and water features, the smaller pack size is ideal to pick up and go.

Easy to handle and ideal for adding finishing touches to outdoor spaces and topping plant pots, the handy packs give consumers a whole new range of cost-effective garden design options.   

Additions of Natural Slate Chippings, Yorkdale Cream and Cotswold Rock extend the aggregates core range, all are available in large and bulk bags, increasing the volume selling lines in this category.

New “Gravel Bound” is a decorative, resin bound, low maintenance surface finish. Suitable for garden paths and decorative areas, Gravel Bound is porous to allow drainage, will not discolour and can be applied over concrete, tarmac and many other surfaces. Included in the handy mixing tub is washed and dried golden gravel and an easy to mix resin bond pouch.

All these new products will be on display for the first time on Kelkay’s stand at Glee 2015.

Antony Harker, managing director of Kelkay, said: “Our aggregates lead the market because we assure unrivalled quality, provide a wide choice - and listen to our customers. That’s why we’ve launched the new handy packs. We know that to maintain our market position, we must understand our customers’ needs and innovate continually as well as bring special offer promotions to drive high volume sales within this category.”

Kelkay ensures industry-leading stock availability and delivery lead times, especially at peak periods. It offers a £500 carriage paid order service across the UK through its transport logistics department. This ensures customers receive their orders within three days - and in many instances, two. 

Kelkay’s brand portfolio includes Borderstone®, Build Mate, easyfountain® and Henri®, providing retailers with a single source of supply for a wide range of garden products. These include aggregates, stone, water and garden features, paving, edging and walling, building materials, horticulture, growing media and winter garden products.

By promoting aggregates, paving and fountains with eye-catching point of sale, merchandising units and display stands, garden retailers have seen sales grow in these categories.

Taking place at the NEC, Birmingham from 14 to 16 September, Glee 2015 will host over 500 UK and international wholesale garden suppliers. Kelkay will be on stands 19 A10 – C11 and 20 G06 – J07.

For more information, visit www.kelkay.co.uk. Like Kelkay on Facebook and follow on Twitter.

 
The Tildenet Group appoints Edward Cantle as Retail Sales Manager
Edward Cantle has got straight to work in his new role as Retail Sales Manager on the enormous Tildenet stand at Glee 2015...


Edward Cantle has got straight to work in his new role as Retail Sales Manager on the enormous Tildenet stand at Glee 2015.

With over 15 years experience in the garden sector and previous positions at Webbs and Stewart, Ed is a familiar face at the show and looking forward to working with the expanded range and refreshed branding at Tildenet Gardenware
 
"I am excited to join the growing Tildenet team and be involved with a company that offers such an extensive range of core gardening product - 2016 looks like it will be a busy year following significant growth in 2015," he said.
 
Andrew Downey, Tildenet Managing Director, added: “We've had another fantastic year at Tildenet and are delighted to have maintained our reputation for outstanding fulfilment rates to our customers . Bringing Edd on board will help us to build on this success and develop the many exciting plans we have for 2016."
 
Tildenet are exhibiting at Glee 2015 Hall 20 Stand N16.
 
New-look pre-packs catch the eye at Taylors Bulbs

The brand new pack design for the flagship Choice range from Taylors Bulbs was an instant eye-catcher for visitors to the stand today (19G02)


The brand new pack design for the flagship Choice range from Taylors Bulbs was an instant eye-catcher for visitors to the stand today (19G02)

The designs were just one example of a host of new packaging introduced this  autumn.

The complementary design for Taylors’ Select collection of new, rare and unusual varieties is going down well, too, and also in the new family style are the Classic Combinations. 

Improved bespoke images across the board also contribute to the bold new look, all of which you can see on the stand. The colour picture dominates the design with all the necessary information required for gardeners to make their buying decision. Full cultural instructions are printed on the reverse of each pack to create the best opportunity for success but if any issues arise, Taylors also include details of their Quality Assured commitment.

The world's finest garden rooms, now under your own brand name


When it comes to the world’s finest garden buildings, there is one brand that stands head-and-shoulders above the rest: Crown Pavilions. With clients ranging from celebrities like Duncan Bannatyne and Gloria Hunniford to Champneys Health Spas and European royalty, customers know that if they want the very best then they should ask for Crown Pavilions by name...



When it comes to the world’s finest garden buildings, there is one brand that stands head-and-shoulders above the rest: Crown Pavilions. With clients ranging from celebrities like Duncan Bannatyne and Gloria Hunniford to Champneys Health Spas and European royalty, customers know that if they want the very best then they should ask for Crown Pavilions by name.

Now, for the first time ever, Crown Pavilions is launching a collection of garden buildings that will be available exclusively through its retail network: the Lifestyle Collection.

None of the products in this unique new collection will be available direct from Crown. Instead, handpicked retail partners will be able to market products under their own brand names. And, by limiting the number of partners within any given geographical radius, Crown plans to add an even greater layer of exclusivity to the collection.

“We are delighted to be launching the new Lifestyle Collection at GLEE 2015,” said Crown’s Marketing Manager, XXXXXXXX. “This is a fantastic opportunity for any retailer wishing to offer its customers a top-of-the-range product with the added advantage of being able to brand this product under their own name.”

Initially the Lifestyle Collection will comprise two garden buildings: the Valentine and the Eden, with more planned for the future. Both can be viewed at GLEE where Crown Pavilions colleagues will be on hand to answer questions.

Interested retailers can find out more about becoming a Crown Lifestyle trade partner at the Crown Stand Number XXX, GLEE, NEC, between the 14th and 16th September.
 
Come and meet the Iron Man at Glee!
Iron Man Steve Morgan arrived at Glee to a warm welcome from customers as well as staff. The Managing Director of Zest 4 Leisure and his Senior Manager John Vaughan successfully completed the gruelling Iron Man Wales challenge in aid of Alzheimer’s Society...
Iron Man Steve Morgan arrived at Glee to a warm welcome from customers as well as staff. The Managing Director of Zest 4 Leisure and his Senior Manager John Vaughan successfully completed the gruelling Iron Man Wales challenge in aid of Alzheimer’s Society.

Having conquered one of the world’s toughest distance triathlons, for the third time, which involved a 2.4 mile sea swim, a 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile run, Steve immediately travelled to join his team exhibiting at Glee, the UK’s largest garden trade show!

Steve and John entered Iron Man Wales to help raise funds for their chosen charity Alzheimer’s Society. To raise money, they have also taken part in many sporting events during 2015 including, The Velothon Wales, The Ripon Triathlon and The Polish Iron Man.

John also took on a full body wax for charity to ensure his aerodynamics for the challenge.

John said, “No pain no gain, but it was worth it for such a worthy cause”. They are raising money for this worthy cause, which works to improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Steve explains why Alzheimer’s Society was selected as the company’s chosen charity for 2015:

“There are so many people within our society that live with this progressive and life-changing condition. We actively support charitable and community initiatives and, having known people dealing with this condition, Alzheimer’s Society was an obvious choice. Everyone within our company feels privileged to be able to help this charity in the fight against dementia. I hope my efforts at Iron Man encourage others to get involved by donating or raising funds for Alzheimer’s Society, enabling it to continue investing in its research programme and providing essential support and resources.”

Ruth Owen, Community Fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Society said:  “We are delighted that Steve and John from Zest 4 Leisure continue to give their time and energy to support Alzheimer’s Society. “225,000 people will develop dementia this year, that’s one every three minutes.

"As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals like Steve and John to help us continue our vital work.  Both Steve and John have been cycling, swimming and running hundreds of miles in aid of Alzheimer’s Society over the past two years and have been wonderful supporters having raised thousands of pounds for our charity. 

"Not only have they taken part in these gruelling Iron Man events, they have also supported our local services by hosting a Try Something New gardening project. Thank you to Steve and John for their fundraising efforts, helping Alzheimer's Society to continue leading the fight against dementia.”
 
Gardman's extended Garden & Home range turns on the style

Four new Homestyle collections from Garden & Home Co will offer retailers both seasonal and year round gifting opportunities at affordable price points, to drive volume sales...


Four new Homestyle collections from Garden & Home Co by Gardman (19E30-G31) will offer retailers both seasonal and year round gifting opportunities at affordable price points, to drive volume sales.

The collections will be marketed under four themed headings, each with a distinctive design to appeal to differing consumer tastes;

  • Parisian Chic – exudes an air of traditional French charm 
  • Global - casts its net worldwide to catch the spirit of many different cultures
  • Urban - has a more masculine, industrial edge
  • Boutique - oozes elegance with touches of glitz.

Products within each range include wall art, mirrors, clocks, candle hardware and glassware.

Open your doors to Buddy, Daisy, Digger, Bailey, Bertie, Bentley and co…  We could go on, but you might like to check out the latest members of the Garden & Home Co doorstop family for yourselves.

With 14 characterful designs to choose from, these all-new additions are priced to sell for £12.99 or £14.99.

The characters, based on well-loved pets and animals, include puppies, kittens and teddy bears, plus a hedgehog, owl and frog.

They are all suitably weighted, in cotton or PU ‘leather’ fabrics with soft plush finishes.

A fantastic new range of artificial pot plants and pre-lit topiary was unveiled at Glee yesterday – and judging by sales of Gardman’s original ‘artificials’, these innovative additions to the Garden & Home Co. offering are destined for instant success. 

The battery operated Pre-Lit topiary, at SRPs from £19.99 to £29.99, are all suitable for indoor or outdoor use and feature an automatic on/off timer (on for 6 hours and off for 18 hours), so consumers can set the light to come on at the same time every day. Designs include hearts and ball trees.

There is also  a selection of artificial pot plants in the range (SRP £2.99-£3.99 each) and a choice of three mini topiary trees, which are offered at SRP £7.99.

Heritage Birdhouse Collection hit the right note with visitors to the Deco-Pak stand


The Heritage Birdhouse and Feeder Collection certainly caught the attention of visitors to the Deco-Pak stand (20K30-L31)...



The Heritage Birdhouse and Feeder Collection certainly caught the attention of visitors to the Deco-Pak stand.

Now retailed in heritage style gift packaging, eight specially selected models of birdhouses and birdfeeders offer even greater profit potential for retailers.

The colour-coded, decorative packaging is 100% recyclable and features helpful information on how to feed, look after and attract birds to the garden.



Launching as a range for the first time, Deco-Pak's handcrafted rainbow sandstone water features and statuary will also feature inspirational displays as the range expands with new additions. 

The Eastern Stone Co. range is designed in the UK but draws inspiration from the east.

Featuring high-quality, handcrafted, rainbow sandstone water features and statuary, these distinctive centrepieces will not only add a unique visual impact in the garden centre, but would also provide a stunning focal point in any garden.

The Eastern Stone collection includes a majestic 90cm Buddha head and a striking 95cm tulip planter.

Rod Slater, from Deco-Pak, said: "Displaying the Eastern Stone Co. range in this way will allow garden centres to sell these products in the most attractive way, whilst also creating valuable add-on sales from related products featured within the display."

Find out more

Visit Deco-Pak on stand 20K30-L31 to find out more.  Alternatively, visit www.deco-pak.co.uk, connect via twitter @deco_pak, or call the sales support team on 01422 204394.
 
Bord na Móna launches new 'single brand strategy' at Glee
Stand 18L10-M11
Following its recognition as Best Buy by consumer ratings magazine, Which? Gardening in the raising young plants category, Bord na Móna UK has launched a completely new peat to peat-free range at Glee 2015 all under the Bord na Móna Growise brand...


Following its recognition as Best Buy by consumer ratings magazine, Which? Gardening in the raising young plants category, Bord na Móna UK has launched a completely new peat to peat-free range at Glee 2015 all under the Bord na Móna Growise brand. 

With raising young plants traditionally the most challenging area for peat-reduced and peat-free growing media, the consumer acknowledgement of excellence which outstrips all types of alternative growing media in this sector has prompted the move.  

The new Bord na Móna Growise brand, which benefits from bright, freshly designed colour coded packaging, encapsulates the company’s single-minded commitment to best in class consumer satisfaction. Its range of growing media and soil improvers offers the perfect combination of peat-free and peat-reduced, including specialist blends, all from one reliable source.

The single brand strategy will be delivered with the full backing of the massive resources, technological innovation and marketing support of the premier global supplier in this category, combined with the tight knit and fleet of foot accessibility of the UK sales team. 

Head of Consumer in the UK, Charles Farmer said: “A single -minded and well supported proposition like this, backed wholeheartedly and delivered with absolute efficiency on the ground adds up to a great opportunity for UK garden retailers of all sizes and profiles.”  With the Bord na Móna winter and summer fuels range available through the same channel, this adds up to a raft of benefits from a company that can really deliver growth.

The Bord na Móna Growise brand will cover all the peat-based and peat-free growing media and soil improver bases. The new range includes peat-based and peat-free multipurpose growing media and peat-free Chelsea Mix as well as specialist blends such as ericaceous, sowing and cutting, rose, tree and shrub and tub and basket as well as a John Innes range, a grow your own collection and a selection of peat-free soil improvers. 

The launch benefits from a new catalogue, a new website and a full trade and consumer promotional programme with multi-buy promotions across all Bord na Móna’s core horticultural products throughout the season.  

Charles Farmer continued: “The Which? recognition has been great news for us, acknowledging as it does our superiority in terms of quality and consistency across the peat to peat-free spectrum from a consumer point of view.  

"Add to that our reputation for reliability of supply for retailers and we are confident that the new Bord na Móna Growise range ticks all the boxes for consumer and retailers.  Our mission is to ensure the consumer can buy the very best performing product whatever the task in hand and whatever their preference in terms of peat and peat-free.”  

Bord na Móna UK trades peat–reduced and peat-free growing media and soil improvers through garden centres nationally and is the largest own brand supplier of compost and bark in the UK.  It is part of the Bord na Móna plc, which specialises in eco-fuels, growing media, recycling, resource recovery and renewable energy.
 
Adam Wigglesworth becomes HTA President at Glee
Adam Wigglesworth, Managing Director of Aylett Nurseries in St Albans, was duly elected as President of the HTA for the next two years at the HTA AGM held today at the NEC Birmingham...


Adam Wigglesworth, Managing Director of Aylett Nurseries in St Albans, was duly elected as President of the HTA for the next two years at the HTA AGM held at the NEC Birmingham on the second morning of #Glee2015.

The well attended early morning AGM was being held alongside Glee for the first time.

Adam, CEO Carol Paris and other HTA Directors thanked immediate past-president Stan Green for all his work leading the HTA during the past two years.
 
Glee New Products 2015 - GTN 20 - Innovation winners - Backsaver Barrows.JPG
Glee New Product Awards 2015 results
Nine ground-breaking new garden products have been confirmed as the winners of the coveted Glee New Product Awards 2015, with Baksaver Barrows (above) winning the Glee Innovation Award...

Glee New Products 2015 - GTN 20 - Innovation winners - Backsaver Barrows.JPG

Nine ground-breaking new garden products have been confirmed as the winners of the coveted Glee New Product Awards 2015, with Baksaver Barrows (above) winning the Glee Innovation Award.

Selected from hundreds of entries before Glee opened its doors (14th – 16th September, NEC Birmingham), the winning products were chosen by an expert panel of judges representing independent and multiple retailers, the media and international suppliers.

Entries were submitted into nine key garden retail categories, comprising:

  • Best Garden Care (Accessories) Product
  • Best Machinery and Tool Product
  • Best Plants, Seeds, and Bulbs Product
  • Best Garden Care (Chemicals, Fertilisers and Compost) Products
  • Best Pet and Wildlife Product
  • Best Leisure Product
  • Best Catering and Speciality Product
  • Best Landscaping and Construction Product
  • Innovation Award 

One further award – the Retailers' Choice Award – will be announced on Wednesday (16th September) morning at 10:00am.  Retailers visiting the Glee New Product display are invited to vote for their favourite product after viewing the entries on display.  Voting is open now and shall close on Tuesday evening.

An additional ‘Innovation Award’ was also added to the award programme for 2015. Created in response to industry feedback, this new award celebrates true innovation from the 500+ exhibitors which will be filling Glee in 2015.  

Judges considered each entry on a challenging range of criteria, including innovation, design, quality, environmental credentials, pricing and retail potential – resulting in some hot debates and close runners-up in a number of categories.



On the judging panel were: Brian Archibald (Coolings), Tony Kersey (Homebase), Marcus Cousins (Aylett Nurseries), Kevin Waters (The Garden Works), Conna Powles (Haskins), Michelle de Lavis-Trafford (Choice), Gábor Knorr (British Garden), Yvonne Ritchie (Brechin Castle), Trevor Pfeiffer (Garden Trade News), Susan Fairley, Matthew Mein and Saul Leese (i2i Events).

All entries can be found in a single central located ‘new products hub’ within the heart of Glee’s location with halls 17 – 20.

Winners’ round-up

Best Garden Care (Accessories) Product

Winner: Cloud Controller, Hozelock

First runner up: Solar Powered Eureka! Lightbulb lantern, Smart Garden Products Ltd

Second runner up: 3 Pattern Spray Ball

 

Best Machinery and Tools Product

Winner: Baksaver Barrow, Baksaver Barrows

First runner up: Batavia Multishifter

Second runner up: Duraball, The Walsall Wheelbarrow Company Ltd

 

Best Plants, Seeds and Bulbs

Winner: Raspberry Ruby Beauty, Wyevale Nurseries

First runner up: Nemesia Sunpeddle Painted Rose, Channel Island Plants (UK) Ltd

Second runner up: Gro-Sure Sow Smart, Westland Horticulture

 

Best Garden Care Chemicals, Fertilisers and Composts Product

Winner: Sylvagrow Compost 100%, Melcourt Industries

First runner up: Rootgrow Ericoid Mycorrhizal Fungi, Plantgrow

Second runner up: Sea Maid Calcified Seaweed Meal, Mydas

 

Best Pet & Wildlife Product

Winner:  Loktop 2 Port Mealworm Feeder, Petface

First runner up: Tweetie Feeder, VegTrug

Second runner up: Hobnail glass bird range, Fallen Fruits

 

Best Home, Gift & Clothing

Winner: Occasions Gift Range, Spear & Jackson

First runner up: Lovers Umbrella, Fallen Fruits

Second runner up: Buttacup Flow

 

Best Leisure Product

Winner: Outdoor pouffe, Fallen Fruits

First runner up: ONJA, Rosker Ltd

Second runner up: Solar Bulb Stake and String Lights, Gardman

Third runner up: Brighton Corner Arbour, Zest 4 Leisure

 

Best Catering & Speciality Food Product

Winner: Findlater's Gluten Free Bread

Runner up: Smoke It All

 

Best Landscaping & Construction

Winner: Miniature World Range, Vivid Arts

First runner up: RHS Gardeners Collection, Kelkay

Second runner up: Noocity Growbed

i2i’s Matthew Mein, Glee event manager confirmed: “We were delighted that so many superb, new products were entered for this year’s Glee New Products, and offer many congratulations to the worthy winners.  Our thanks also go to the judges who so kindly lent their valuable time and expertise.”

See more details about the Glee New Product Showcase winners in tomorrows Glee Daily News.

Glee 2015 - Don't miss out! The show is still on for two more days.

Opening times:

Tuesday - 9:00 - 6:00pm

Wednesday - 9:00am - 4:00pm

 
Bring back the joy of gardening with Gripeeze
For many, the pleasure & enjoyment gained from a day spent in the garden is denied due to the repetitive strain it can often bring, and for those with restricted movement it’s pretty much impossible. But now thanks to the Gripeeze Home & Garden Glove that need no longer be the case.


For many, the pleasure & enjoyment gained from a day spent in the garden is denied due to the repetitive strain it can often bring, and for those with restricted movement it’s pretty much impossible. But now thanks to the Gripeeze Home & Garden Glove that need no longer be the case.

This revolutionary new glove uses a wrist-to-knuckle patented strapping system, which locks your grip into place with a simple Velcro strap, thus providing you with the ultimate grip, but because it relieves tension from the hands, fingers, forearm and wrist too it guarantees you none of the usual strains & pains.

The Gripeeze Home & Garden glove is manufactured from neoprene providing water resistance and helping to keep hands warm whilst working outdoors. As well as the unique strapping method, users of the glove also get more wrist support due to a double wrist strapping system and a Poly Dot palm ensures a good grip even when wet. Perfect for bedding, potting, planting and pruning and when using tools and equipment in the garden and around the home, the strapping device can also be strapped away so as not to restrict the user when not in use

Gripeeze gloves are also available for many other activities such as golf, fishing and DIY and come in a variety of materials & sizes to further aid user comfort. They’ve even won praise from healthcare professionals who have approved the Gripeeze range for use in the rehabilitation of patients, it’s use proven to be particularly beneficial to those suffering from arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and other similar conditions. What’s more, they look much the same as any other glove, so no one need know the extra help you’re gaining from wearing it.

The product, which recently featured on QVC and won recognition this month as part of Theo Paphitis’s #smallbusinesssunday forum on Twitter, is distributed worldwide by Agriguard and talks with major high street retailers are also underway & progressing well. Commenting on the future, Stuart Walsh, inventor of Gripeeze, said, ‘I get such a buzz from knowing my product is helping people do things they may not ordinarily have been able to do. We’ve had great success already but I'm not stopping until I know anyone who could benefit from Gripeeze knows about it!’

Suitable for both the able bodied person seeking to remove the repetitive strain of a particular task, or for those suffering from conditions that make use of the hands difficult, the Gripeeze glove comes in 5 different sizes (including children’s) with prices ranging from £14.99 up to £19.99.



Pictured above: Stuart Walsh signs a worldwide distribution agreement with Jonathan Prest of Agriguard. Jonathan can be contacted on 0161 214 8750.

Social media users can follow Gripeeze on Twitter & Facebook.

www.twitter.com/mrgripeeze

www.facebook.com/gripeezegloves

 
Green Digit win the second GIMA Innovator’s Seed Corn Fund
Green Digit are the 2015 GIMA Innovator’s Seed Corn Fund winners and collect a prize of £5,000. Launched in 2014 the GIMA Innovators’ Seed Corn Fund is designed to encourage new businesses, designers and innovators to enter the garden retail market.


Green Digit are the 2015 GIMA Innovator’s Seed Corn Fund winners and collect a prize of £5,000. Launched in 2014 the GIMA Innovators’ Seed Corn Fund is designed to encourage new businesses, designers and innovators to enter the garden retail market.

Beating off stiff competition, the team at Green Digit are the brains behind SeedCell, a new concept in Grow-Your-Own. Put simply, its packaging you plant! SeedCell offers a fun, clever, and waste free way to plant seeds, making them the perfect tool to get children interested in growing their own food. Just snap the cells out and push them into some soil. The unique pointed triangle cell acts as a seed delivery system, removing the need for tools. The natural pulp will absorb any ground moisture and help deliver it directly to the seed aiding the germination while providing a safe, reliable micro climate in which to grow. Currently the SeedCell is available in nine varieties (Chilli Peppers, Tomato, Sweet Mixed Peppers, Sunflowers, Mixed Herbs, Chives, Parsley, Coriander and Basil).
 
GIMA Director, Vicky Nuttall said: “We’re incredibly pleased to confirm that Green Digit are the 2015 winners of the GIMA Innovators’ Seed Corn Fund.  The judges were impressed, not only with the product’s simplicity, but also with the design and creative flair with which it had been put together, as well as how the concept had been thought through to a finished, shelf-ready product being offered at a competitive price. Not only this, but the SeedCell is designed to make growing your own accessible to all, whilst also offering significant environmental credentials. Finally, the product firmly flies the flag for true British innovation with its proud ‘Made in Britain’ status. Green Digit are a most worthy winner, and we look forward to working with the team to help them make their mark in the garden retail market.”
 
In addition to choosing a winner, the panel also selected two highly commended companies.  Those just missing out on the highly coveted title were:
  • Buttacup with the Waterbutt Plant Pot: the Buttacup Flow is curved to fit perfectly to the side of any standard water butt using a simple nut and bolt. Once attached the self-watering system will do all the hard work. The Buttacup Flow is available in a range of colours including dark green to match your water butt.  It is easy to install and comes with a full set of instructions and components.
  • Baksaver Barrows with its namesake product, the Baksaver Barrow: Baksaver Barrows are designed from the ground up using feedback from a mixed range of wheelbarrow users. These high quality, durable wheelbarrows can be used with very little effort, where you don't need to lift to push or to tip. Each barrow comes complete with a three year warranty.
As the winner, Green Digit is now set to receive funding and help with the development and marketing of their product, together with support from experts within the industry.

To find out more about the GIMA Innovators’ Seed Corn Fund please join GIMA on-stand at Glee 2015, Hall 20, stand H38-G40.



Meet Green Digit. Q&A with Dan Robson, founder

Tell us a more about Green Digit
Green Digit Ltd was formed in mid-2014, with the aim of the business being to design, develop and launch a well-considered product based on the concept of plantable packaging. The main objective was to engage with a new audience, and encourage them to have a go at growing their own. The products are intended to eliminate the complexities of growing plants from seed and encourages those who may have been put off by the idea of gardening or growing in the past. We truly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the experience of growing and eating their own produce, and we aim to make this a possibility through our products.

Can you tell us a little bit more about the journey of SeedCell, from concept to the finished product?
Our journey began four years ago, during my time as a design student at Northumbria University. While in my final year I submitted a piece of work which was based around the concept of a 100% biodegradable seed packet.

After completing my Masters in Design, Technology and Business in 2013 I decide to explore the possibility of starting a company to take my concept and turn it in to a real retail product. Determined to produce a small batch of my first design, I managed to raise a small sum through a government based innovation grant.  Producing the first 10,000 products by hand, I found a distributor and began to test the market.
One year on we have developed the product further to ensure its full commercial potential. We also spent the last year setting up the infrastructure needed to produce larger volume orders with our own in-house facility.

One of our unique USP's is that although we are a small company we pride ourselves on the fact that we are now in a position to deal with multi-national retailers.  We have put a lot of hard work into our quality systems, procedures, shelf-ready boxes, point of sale material and a national distribution network, and are now ready to hit the ground running.

How did you hear about the GIMA Innovators’ Seed Corn Fund?
While doing some market research at last year’s Glee I found myself at the GIMA stand, I introduced myself to Vicky Nuttall who, in turn, introduced me to some potential suppliers. Vicky was hugely helpful and it allowed us to find a new seed supplier.  We got some information on the fund and couldn't wait to enter.

What made you enter the award?
Having seen first-hand the connections GIMA helped us to make, we were keen to get the product in front of experienced people from the industry who could help us to make the right connections and steer us in the right direction.

What does the ‘win’ mean to you?
Winning the GIMA Innovators’ Seed Corn Fund is our biggest achievement to date. It means a great deal to us to have our product recognised by such highly experienced people from within the gardening industry.

What can people at Glee expect to see from you?
We are really excited to be exhibiting at Glee this year, having been visitors for the past three years running. We are very much looking forward to launching the product on our stand in the Innovators Zone. As it is our first year at Glee we are keen to introduce ourselves to the world of gardening buyers and retailers.

What are your current retail distribution routes for SeedCell? What channels are you hoping to reach at Glee?
We have built up a network of independent retailers throughout the north of the UK, and we have a great relationship with our stockists. We offer promotional deals, and maintain contact to support our retailers and anyone dealing with us. We are looking to build on our current stockists and possibly find new territories.

To find out more about Green Digit and SeedCell visit www.seedcell.co.uk.  You can also visit the company on-stand at Glee 2015, Hall 20, stand B29.

 
It's time to Go Wild again says Peckish

Westland’s bird care brand Peckish will once again be aiming to give garden centres a major footfall boost this October half-term...


Westland’s bird care brand Peckish will once again be aiming to give garden centres a major footfall boost this October half-term.

Garden centres are being invited to host the Go Wild With Peckish campaign, which encourages families to unplug from their digital devices for a day and take part in fun bird related activities. Research shows the average young adult packs a staggering 14 hours of media consumption into nine hours of the day by ‘media multi-tasking*’.

Each garden centres that signs up to the Go Wild With Peckish campaign will be added to the Peckish website postcode tracker www.peckishbirdfood.com/gowild which signposts families to their closest location to take part in the event.

Garden centres hosting the ‘Go Wild With Peckish’ events will be given an activity pack, which includes guidance on holding activities to increase footfall, such as fun bird feeder and energy ball making sessions, and a bird spotting activity where giant cut out bird characters guide customers around the store. Goodie bags, including money-off coupons will also be provided for garden centres to issue to participants. The trade website will also include copies of downloadable items, guidance and other resources.

Wendy French, Senior Marketing Manager for Peckish, said: “Garden centres taking part get a real boost from increased footfall and customer participation in activities and giveaways. Plus, we encourage a future generation to take time out of their technology filled lives to develop a passion for feeding the birds.

 “Last year we had an overwhelming response, over 100 garden centres up and down the UK and Ireland took part in this event. To ensure you have extra customers flying through the door this half-term, sign up for the event at www.trade.gardenhealth.com or email joingowild@gardenhealth.com

Above: Emma Rogers shows off a display of Peckish products on the Westland stand.

*Ofcom, The Communications Market Report, August 2014
 
Clever, functional and unique gift ideas from Forked Up Art
Visitors to the Forked Up Art stand (20B09) have been impressed with the company's range of clever, functional and unique gift ideas...


Visitors to the Forked Up Art stand (20B09) have been impressed with the company's range of clever, functional and unique gift ideas.

Forked Up Art is a line of products made out of forks and spoons for bathrooms, kitchens and room decorations.

"One of the most popular products is the Christmas tree decoration," said Alan Kasmir.

The range includes The iFork and The iSpoon, which hold iphones, fruit bowl and napkin holders.

To see the full range visit stand (20B09).

 
Lows unveil unique designs for classic pieces
Amongst the wealth of products on the Low’s stand (19H51) are some products of which the team are justifiably proud...
Amongst the wealth of products on the Low’s stand (19H51) are some products of which the team are justifiably proud.

Dave Wrigley, their international buyer explains: “Our aim is to provide garden centres with quality products they can be proud to sell. Designs are unique to ourselves so provide a point of difference to the retailer."

New to the show this year are the ‘Classic Lantern’ range of well crafted, floor standing lanterns.  Interest at the Glee show so far from buyers has been strong; providing a high quality product which will sit well in garden centre displays as individual pieces and ultimately the home.

Dave also highlights the interest in their bespoke, hand crafted range of fireside accessories marketed under the title ‘Black Isle Forge’. “Our own designs, well made but still competitively priced”. All items are available now and have great sales potential as the darker nights draw on.

The Low’s range is also enhanced by ranges of robust well-designed basketware, meaning that there are plenty of items to select from when placing an order; allowing centres of all sizes to be able to access some potential good sellers.

 
Twool – rare breeds have their uses
New product ideas from the producers of Twool – the twine made from the wool of rare breed sheep has been interesting visitors to the show...
New product ideas from the producers of Twool – the twine made from the wool of rare breed sheep has been interesting visitors to the show.

The product, using the wool of the white faced Dartmoor sheep, is far stronger than traditional twine and provides an income for those looking to keep this traditional variety from extinction.

New for this show are the ‘Twool essential’ as smaller amount of Twool wound onto a pocket sized card, with its own handy cutter ( itself made from a metal waste product).  The team are also introducing a new concept the ‘Prop it and Crop it’; a special pack containing a heritage pea or bean variety and a colour coordinated pack of Twool from heritage sheep, enough to provide the support and crop the unusual variety.  The new pack could prove to be an unusual gift idea, helping to keep traditional varieties alive.

Twool can be found represented on the Dalefoot Composts stand 20G34.

 
Kiln dried logs are a hit for CPL
The CPL Distribution stand (17Q10-R11) has seen a lot of interest from Glee visitors in their Kiln Dried Logs range...


The CPL Distribution stand (17Q10-R11) has seen a lot of interest from Glee visitors in their Kiln Dried Logs range...

Chris Foy, from CPL, said: "There has been a surge in demand for kiln dried logs since the Stove Alliance Association improved its literature, and endorsed the burning of this kind of fuel.

"Kiln dried logs have been purified with the moisture taken out. That means it burns well and lights easier."

CPL Distribution are the only UK company who produce eco solid fuel and this also caused a great deal of interest.
Glee Buyers Power List 2015: and the winners are…


The winners of the Glee Buyers Power List – the major new gardening buyer awards initiative introduced by Glee for the first time this year – have been announced as Haskins (pictured), gardensite.co.uk, Blue Diamond, Homebase and John Lewis...



The winners of the Glee Buyers Power List – the major new gardening buyer awards initiative introduced by Glee for the first time this year – have been announced as Haskins (pictured), gardensite.co.uk, Blue Diamond, Homebase and John Lewis.

From individual garden centre buyers to multiple retailer buying teams, the Glee Buyers Power List was launched to recognise and celebrate the many garden retail buyers who have gone ‘above and beyond’ to make a difference within the industry in the past 12 months.  

Speaking at the Glee Buyers Power List awards ceremony, which was held on the second day of the industry-leading show, Glee’s Event Director Matthew Mein confirmed:  “The Glee Buyers Power List was set up to recognise a key group of decision makers in the gardening industry who have often been overlooked: garden retail buyers.  Through this new initiative, we are pleased to be able to celebrate and reward their hard work and dedication.  Our huge congratulations to all of the winners, the finalists and the many excellent shortlisted nominees.”
 
Glee, organised by i2i Events, launched its inaugural Glee Buyers Power List initiative to the market in May.  The response from the industry was immediate, with a long list of nominations submitted for each of the five award categories; from which shortlists were created.  These shortlists were then opened up to everyone in the gardening industry, enabling them to cast their votes online for their top three buyers or teams in each category.
 
The winners and finalists were announced as follows:
Best Independent Garden Retail Buying Team:
Finalists:
Ayletts Nurseries
Burford Garden Centre
Haskins
Polhill Garden Centre
Scotsdale
Winner:
Haskins
 
Best Online Garden Retail Buying Team:
Finalists:
Achica
Crocus
Greenfingers.com
gardensite.co.uk
Primrose
Winner:
gardensite.co.uk
 
Best Multiple Garden Centre Buying Team:
Finalists:
Blue Diamond
Dobbies
Notcutts
Wyevale
Winner:
Blue Diamond
 
Best DIY / Builder Merchant Buying Team:
Finalists:
B&Q
Homebase
Wickes
Winner:
Homebase
 
Best ‘Other’ Garden Retailer Buyer Team:
Finalists:
John Lewis
M&S
Next
Waitrose
Winner:
John Lewis
Westland 'Sow Smart' sets out to revolutionise tomato growing







Westland unveiled their new Sow Smart concept yesterday - pre-sown modules that enable any consumer to successfully grow tomatoes from seed, whatever their experience level...

Westland unveiled their new Sow Smart concept yesterday - pre-sown modules that enable any consumer to successfully grow tomatoes from seed, whatever their experience level.

Sow Smart is unique in the market and pretty much foolproof. Each pack contains six gro-plugs sown with tomato seeds (a choice of  Alicante or Gardener’s Delight). The packaging doubles as a mini-propagator.

Users just add water and within four weeks have a plant that is ready to plant out in a container or planter such as the Gro-Sure Tomato Planter. There are no worries about overwatering as the plugs soak up only as much moisture as they need. The structure of the patented plugs ensures seeds and seedlings have the ideal balance of air, water, nutrients and support.

Senior marketing manager Jen Richardson says the product will change how consumers grow from seed. “It is so special and absolutely foolproof. It has been developed to help those who want the reward of growing tomatoes from seed but need a helping hand along the way.”

Stockists will be encouraged to set up Sow Smart displays alongside Gro-Sure Tomato Planters and Gro-Sure Tomato Food to maximise basket spend.

 

Tarmac launch new range of gardening products


The UK’s leading building materials and construction solutions business has returned to Glee to launch its new range of products specifically designed for the garden centre market. And to add a bit of fun to proceedings visitors to the stand (19F50) were being invited to have their picture taken as a gnome...



The UK’s leading building materials and construction solutions business has returned to Glee to launch its new range of products specifically designed for the garden centre market. And to add a bit of fun to proceedings visitors to the stand (19F50) were being invited to have their picture taken as a gnome...

Visitors got an exclusive first look at the new range of six plastic tubs from Tarmac’s Cement business – a top UK cement producer – that all feature the distinctive Blue Circle logo, that have been designed for a variety of gardening and landscaping tasks. These might include activities such as laying paving slabs, fixing fence posts and doing small concreting and bricklaying projects like building a brick barbeque.

Following extensive research, the range of versatile, weather-resistant plastic tubs was designed with the gardening and landscaping market in mind, allowing users to take out just the right amount of product needed and re-seal the rest for future use - saving time, waste and money.

The newly-redesigned tubs are easy to carry and use and now include attractive, end-user-friendly instructions, application photographs and guidelines so that users can feel confident in the job at hand.

Chris Cooper, Packed ProductsStrategic Marketing Manager, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing this new range of plastic tubs to GLEE. It is always a great occasion for us to meet our customers from garden centres across the UK and we look forward to welcoming them to our stand this year.

“With these products, we have brought customer-led innovation to market, responding to an increased demand from garden centres and their customers for easy-to-use, ready-mixed cement and mortar products.

Mike Lomax, Marketing Communication Manager (pictured), said “The new packaging includes our famous Blue Circle branding which re-enforces our strong heritage of innovation. We will be supporting the launch with a hard hitting National Consumer campaign to show how these new products help make it easier for gardeners to get the results they want- in a simple ‘easy to use’ and ‘clean to carry’ solution that they have never had before.”

Handy Distribution prove that Gardena products are frost-proof


Handy Distribution have encased their Gardena range of hose-end accessories in a block of ice to prove the products are 100% frost proof...



Handy Distribution have encased their Gardena range of hose-end accessories in a block of ice to prove the products are 100% frost proof.

Each day of the show Handy Distribution have blocks of ice with the accessories transported from London to arrive at 8.30am. The impressive ice display on the company's stand (19C30-E31) lasts all day and is aimed at proving the frost-proof properties of the product.

"You can leave these products outside in the worst winter weather and they will still work," said Dean Speake, of Handy Distribution. "They are literally for all-year-round use."

Pictured above with the display are, from left to right: company chairman Derek Belcher, managing director Simon Belcher, and key account manager Paul Simpson, who came up with the block of ice idea.

Pictured below: Dean Speake.

Woodlodge launch Heritage Bistro set


Woodlodge Products are extending their hugely popular Heritage range with the addition of many new pot designs, high quality glazed bird baths and a range of style bistro sets (comprising two chairs and a table) in pastel shades...



Woodlodge Products are extending their hugely popular Heritage range with the addition of many new pot designs, high quality glazed bird baths and a range of style bistro sets (comprising two chairs and a table) in pastel shades.

The Heritage range has been very well received and Woodlodge have listened to their customer's feedback when choosing the new range additions.

As well as additions to the Heritage range, Woodlodge are introducing new designs to their acclaimed National Trust garden container collection.

One of the most successful product launches of the year, Woodlodge's National Trust pots have seen record sales.

The Woodlodge stand is one of the most sylish at Glee, and Michael Wooldridge (pictured) said: "We try to help garden centres display our products as we have done on our Glee stand."
Fruity pouffe wins Glee's garden leisure new product award




Winner of the Garden Leisure category in Glee’s New Product Awards is a delightful outdoor pouffe from Fallen Fuits (18H30), testimony to the adage that ‘simple is best’...

Winner of the Garden Leisure category in Glee’s New Product Awards is a delightful outdoor pouffe from Fallen Fuits (18H30), testimony to the adage that ‘simple is best’.

The pouffe comprises a strong inflatable inner with a waterproof textile cover, in three ‘fruity’ designs – kiwi fruit, water melon and orange.

They are destined to become bright and cheerful additions to many UK patios next season, judging by the interest show by buyers at Glee today. 

Left: Liz Watson shows off Fallen Fruits' Glee New Product Award.
Award means Baksaver Barrow is Glee's best new bit of kit






An ingenious wheelbarrow that you don’t have to tip to push or push to tip won the Best Machinery and Tools category in Glee’s New Product Awards...

An ingenious wheelbarrow that you don’t have to tip to push or push to tip won the Best Machinery and Tools category in Glee’s New Product Awards.

Baksaver Barrows (20A26), making their Glee debut in the Innovation Zone, also won the Innovation Award.

The company was set up by Devon-based machinery dealer James Hayes (picrtured right) to market the Baksaver, developed over two years after a friend came to him with his bright idea.

Using a simple cantilever arrangement, the galvanized steel butt tips forward with one easy movement, while smooth wheel bearings and pneumatic tyres make the unit highly manoeuvrable. A rolled-over rim underpins the strength and rigidity of the butt. The framework is powder-coated steel so durability is asssured. Suggested retail price is £129.

“The response here at Glee has been fantastic,” James told Glee Daily News. “We have got loads of leads – people love its uniqueness and points of difference.” 

 
Melcourt SylvaGrow...RHS endorsed and a Glee winner
Building on their reputation for reliable, quality growing media the Melcourt Industries team are delighted to win a Glee new product award.
Building on their reputation for reliable, quality growing media the Melcourt Industries team are delighted to win a Glee new product award.

Extensively researched, the Sylvagrow range provides high performing peat-free growing media which will be welcomed by the gardening public. 

The range, based on their professional products has been extended with the inclusion of an ericaceous compost and a multipurpose compost with added John Innes.

Andy Chalmers, Melcourt’s Managing Director, identifies the recent endorsement of their peat-free garden products by the RHS, “the only one” as being especially important in helping the gardening public select a product that can be trusted to perform well. 

He has also overseen the development of smaller, 20 litre carry home packs of their compost range will also benefit the discerning consumer who has difficulty in transporting larger sizes.

Melcourt Industries can be found in Hall 20, stand G01

Petface's fresh approach to the bird sector wins award


The Wild Bird Range was an instant hit when it was unveiled to visitors to the Petface stand (18M30-M31) and the team were celebrating winning a new product award for the Loktop 2 Mealworm Feeder...



The Wild Bird Range was an instant hit when it was unveiled to visitors to the Petface stand (18M30-M31) and the team were celebrating winning a new product award for the Loktop 2 Mealworm Feeder.

“Petface’s client base is driven by an emphasis on design, and they expect more from us than our competitors,” says Adam Bowler head of Bird development.

Adam’s experience within the trade, now driven by Petface’s shared passion for design, has been the platform for Adam to develop Petface’s new and exciting 'Wild Bird Range'.

The 80 new product lines are dominated by the ‘Loktop’ Bird feeders that generated fantastic feedback during their initial trials and now Petface are expecting the same enthusiasm from their customers.

“We recognise this is an enormous market, supplied by some large and established players so we didn’t want to rush in. We had to get this right!

“Our philosophy is to make ‘Wild Bird’ more appealing; not only for the experienced consumer, but also for the new younger market who already have pets but want to understand more about bird feeding and have the budget.

"We’ve taken a 'fresh look' approach to Bird that we believe is interesting, easy for consumers to navigate, and looks incredible when merchandised, it really 'stands out' particularly on our Petface stand.

“At GLEE 2015 we will be unveiling an exciting, dynamic, and interactive point of sale not to be missed!”

The full range is available to 'touch and feel'  on stand 18M30-M31.

 
Spear & Jackson - something for any ‘occasion’
The Spear & Jackson stand (Hall 19, D10) has been busy so far this Glee buoyed by the news of winning a new product award for their ‘Occasions’ range  of gift packaged hand trowels. This unique product is etched with the appropriate message on the tool and well as being on the box...


The Spear & Jackson stand (Hall 19, D10) has been busy so far this Glee buoyed by the news of winning a new product award for their ‘Occasions’ range  of gift packaged hand trowels. This unique product is etched with the appropriate message on the tool and well as being on the box.

Four messages are available; “Thank you”, “World’s greatest gardener”, “Gardening queen” and “ Happy birthday”, the recommended price point of £13.99 answers the perennial question of what to buy for the relative or friend that seems to have everything.

Available for immediate delivery, there is great scope for adding these trowels in the gift area of a garden centre or even a product extension for those with a very horticultural focused product range.

Acclaim for Hozelock's hi-tech watering solution

Hozelock’s win in the garden care (accessories) category of the Glee New Product Awards was widely predicted, bringing as it does the hi-tech world of internet technology to garden watering...



Above: Hozelock's Adrian Davey on the Cloud Controller display at Glee today.


Hozelock’s win in the garden care (accessories) category of the Glee New Product Awards was widely predicted, bringing as it does the high-tech world of internet technology to garden watering.

Via an app installed on a smartphone, watering can be controlled remotely by the Hozelock Cloud Controller and Hub connected to the user’s broadband router and activated by a wi-fi signal. It’s programmable, so will operate an automatic watering system.

Adrian Davey, the company’s commercial director, says the product has been enthusiastically received by retailers at Glee. “Advanced technology is widely used in many other areas of life but had not yet reached gardening, until now. People see how it will appeal to the next generation of users but also understand that the majority of gardeners are in older age groups and are used to using technology like this too.”

Although the Cloud Controller and Hub (SRP £114.99) and its sister products, the Sensor Controller (from £35.99) and the Easy Drip system (from £32.99), are premium purchases, Adrian believes they represent good value for money, comparing favourably with other technology purchases.



Above: Hozelock's Adrian Davey on the Cloud Controller display at Glee today.

 
Raspberry ‘Ruby Beauty’ wins new product award
Staff at Wyevale Nurseries are celebrating after their new plant Raspberry ‘Ruby Beauty’ won the Glee New Product Award for Best Plant, Seeds and Bulbs...
Staff at Wyevale Nurseries are celebrating after their new plant Raspberry ‘Ruby Beauty’ won the Glee New Product Award for Best Plant, Seeds and Bulbs.
 
Wyevale Nurseries entered the plant, which was created with Frank P Matthews in Worcestershire, in to the award at the trade show in Birmingham and were delighted it was named as the winner today.
 
Adam Dunnett, Sales and Marketing Director at Wyevale Nurseries based in Hereford, said: “We’re so thrilled that Raspberry ‘Ruby Beauty’ was named as the winning plant in the New Product Award for Best Plant, Seeds and Bulbs. It is the first ever dwarf, patio raspberry and is perfect for the modern day gardener.
 
“It reaches just 1m high and 50cm wide. The plant is thornless and does not need caning or support. Each plant will produce approximately 1.5kg of fantastically flavoured fruit from June onwards. We advise to plant one plant into a 10L pot or three into a 40L. It is an ideal plant for the patio, kitchen or wildlife gardens.”
 
Wyevale Nurseries is one of the largest family-run wholesale nurseries in the UK. It was established in 1930 by Harry Williamson, a horticulturist and entrepreneur. It became the company it is today under the leadership of his son, Peter, who sadly passed away in 2011.
 
The Williamsons’ saw the opportunity to sell their product to an undeveloped retail market, creating one of the first garden centres, followed by a chain. In 1987, the retail side needed to expand and the 19 garden centres were sold as a PLC.
 
The family then turned its focus to Wyevale Nurseries Ltd. It continues to be a family-run business with ownership and joint chairmanship currently being held by the third generation, Heather and Simeon Williamson, with plans for the fourth generation to takeover in the future.
 
Wyevale Nurseries has a significant product range and is regularly introducing new plants. It offers a large variety of trees, shrubs, hedging, herbaceous and specimen plants to garden centres, landscape contractors, local authorities, foresters and landowners.

Small is beautiful at Vivid Arts


Winner of the Glee new products award for landscaping and construction, the Vivid Arts introduction is deliberately on a small scale. The new Miniature World collection provides plenty of scope for garden centres to capitalise on this new trend...



Winner of the Glee new products award for landscaping and construction, the Vivid Arts introduction is deliberately on a small scale. The new Miniature World collection provides plenty of scope for garden centres to capitalise on this new trend.

The models, all to scale, are designed by Vivid Arts’ own team, who are ensuring a level of detail within the product that is sometimes missing. The in house development also allows for new themes to be developed which are pertinent for the UK market.

The display on stand 20C02 shows ways of presenting the products, and has given a number of visitors inspiration of how to build similar back in their own businesses. Director Paul McGuire, cites the immense collectability of the range and foresees customers making return visits to add to their existing collection. 

The addition of this collection to the already extensive range offered by Vivid Arts will allow centres to gain entry into this product area easily and allow for easy replenishment when items sell through.


Findlaters discover a 'new niche'


Suppliers of fine foods to delicatessens and Food Halls, Scottish-based Findlater’s  Fine Foods are a first time exhibitor at Glee. Ailsa Jeffrey, Customer Service Manager, was especially excited to be awarded the Glee New Product award for catering and speciality food for their gluten free bread...



Suppliers of fine foods to delicatessens and Food Halls, Scottish-based Findlater’s  Fine Foods are a first time exhibitor at Glee.  Ailsa Jeffrey, Customer Service Manager, was especially excited to be awarded the Glee New Product award for catering and speciality food for their gluten free bread.

Anyone suspicious of the quality of gluten free products should visit their stand 17V58 for a taste test. Already established in many garden centres for their award winning range of pate, they can also supply their breads on a countrywide level. They deal direct with businesses meaning that products are attractively priced.

A garden centre visitor to the stand identified the synergy between offering the bread in their coffee shop and also the food hall. “One sells the other, we have found a new niche."

Increasingly Findlaters are finding it is not only those who are gluten intolerant selecting the product but others who are choosing to be gluten free as a lifestyle choice.

Natural seeds, herbs and plants to enhance meals


New for 2016, Neudorff’s Wild Gardener range is an organic culinary lover’s best friend – it’s a simple and effective way to sow and then harvest edible flowers, herbs and salads...



New for 2016, Neudorff’s Wild Gardener range is an organic culinary lover’s best friend – it’s a simple and effective way to sow and then harvest edible flowers, herbs and salads.

The Wild Gardener range comprises of five seed mixtures – four edible and one ornamental wildflower mix. Each exciting combination contains up to six annual and biennial seed varieties completely free of hybrid and genetically modified elements, emphasising the organic nature of Neudorff’s products

Fragrant spicy herbs, mixed salad and edible flowers are the ideal ingredients for delicious summer salad or a spicy addition to dips, sauces and even pizzas.

Jude Beharall, Sales Director for Neudorff UK and ROI, commented on the introduction of the Wild Gardener pack: “We are delighted to be able to bring another exciting garden category to market that compliments the existing product offering. These products tap into the Urban Gardening trend and allow gardeners to grow fresh produce in even the smallest of spaces.”

The Wild Gardener range is suited for all types of gardens, no matter what size. From balconies and terraces to fully-fledged gardens, just one pack is enough for at least two large sized window boxes to invite a little colour and flavour into your garden.

A handy sowing aid is included with each pack for easy application, and the seeds can be sown in pots, tubs or directly in to soil.

RRP: £3.49 per pack.

For more information, visit the Neudorff website www.neudorff.co.uk
Smiemans Projecten announce two new contracts at Glee


Exciting news on the Smiemans Projecten stand today with the signing of two new contracts. The announcement of an extension to the existing garden centre site at Mackenzie and Cruikshank in Forres, Scotland was followed by the signing of a contact to the development of a new restaurant at Groves Nurseries in Bridport Dorset.



Exciting news on the Smiemans Projecten stand today with the signing of two new contracts. The announcement of an extension to the existing garden centre site at Mackenzie and Cruikshank in Forres, Scotland (pictured above) was followed by the signing of a contact to the development of a new restaurant at Groves Nurseries in Bridport Dorset (below).

The Mackenzie and Cruikshank contract will see the development of a large open sided canopy and a curved glasshouse, in total an area of over 1000m2

Bridport based Groves have worked with the Malcolm Scott Partnership to gain planning for a brand new restaurant building on their site. The construction, consisting of approximately 200 covers inside and seating for a further 100 outside is part of a phased development of the site. Charlie Groves, Managing Director stated the reason for the choice, “ We are a traditional site adjacent to a busy main road, we needed something that would link to our horticultural heritage but still have the ‘wow’ factor. The proposed building fits these criteria well”.

Project management of the Groves Nurseries build will be managed by Lance Locke of ICDM.

Visitors to the Smiemans Projecten stand (17R59) will see details of many of the company’s latest projects.

Trans-Continental launch Terra Flame Outdoor Collection


Terra Flame is the latest licensed brand to join Trans-Continental’s Outdoor Living Collection...



Terra Flame is the latest licensed brand to join Trans-Continental’s Outdoor Living Collection.

The Terra Flame Outdoor Collection is range of sophisticated, decorative outdoor accessories that provide a beautiful, warming flame. Available in a variety of styles, the collection is powered by SunJel; an innovative, environmentally friendly, odourless, smokeless and virtually CO2-free fuel.  In fact, as it is clean burning and requires no ventilation, it can be used indoors too.

The new collection will include the Georgian lantern range, featuring fluid lines and architectural styled lids. Finished in classic bronze, the versatile Georgian lantern is available in three complementary sizes and provides the perfect accent in both a modern and traditional environment.

The Elements range features contemporary lines and organic materials, inspired by the earth’s resources, in their purest forms. The five piece rustic range comprises a fire pit, lantern and three torches, designed to be further enhanced by the climate and finished with the addition of real river rock.  Each one-of a-kind piece will blend seamlessly into any garden landscape.

With other styles in the collection to be launched at Glee, make sure you drop by Hall 17, Stand Y50 at the NEC Birmingham, 14th-16th September.
Miracle-Gro 'Gro-ables' make it easier to grow your own






 



Visitors to the Scotts Miracle-Gro stand (18M20-N21) can see a brand new growing kit designed to expand the grow-your-own market...



Visitors to the Scotts Miracle-Gro stand (18M20-N21) can see a brand new growing kit designed to expand the grow-your-own market.

Miracle-Gro Gro-able Seed Pods comprise a biodegradable cow manure-based ‘pod’ containing slow-release plant food granules and a plug made from coir, pre-sown with vegetable seeds like tomatoes and courgettes.

The kits produce young plants that will be ready to plant out in a few weeks, during which time the growing medium will provide all the nutrients they need.

La Hacienda to distribute stylish Artevasi pots and planters
La Hacienda announced at Glee yesterday that they have been appointed exclusive UK distributors of the stylish Artevasi range of pots and planters from Portugal...


La Hacienda announced at Glee yesterday that they have been appointed exclusive UK distributors of the stylish Artevasi range of synthetic pots and planters from Portugal...

La Hacienda's Simon Goodwin said UK pricing was competitive.

Peter Rabbit...now screening on the Treadstone stand

Treadstone Products (17X30) have put on a show-stopping display to promote their newly-licensed range of Peter Rabbit branded products.




Treadstone Products (17X30) have put on a show-stopping display to promote their newly-licensed range of Peter Rabbit branded products.

You will hardly miss the 3m high back-lit display of Peter Rabbit and friends at the rear of hall 17.

The range includes boy and girl versions with backbacks, wellies and umbrellas.

Above: Karen Murphy models a Peter Rabbit umbrella on the Treadstone stand.

Glee Daily News team on hand to bring you all the news



Throughout Glee 2015 the team from Garden Trade News have been covering all the latest developments for Glee Daily News.

REMEMBER TO COLLECT YOUR FREE GLEE SHOW CATALOGUE...




Throughout Glee 2015 the team from Garden Trade News will be covering all the latest developments for Glee Daily News.

The Glee Daily News is sent by free to all visitors of Glee.  Advertising and promtion opportunities are available.  To book your activity into The Glee Daily News, please email Mandy Atkin mandy.atkin@tgcmc.co.uk  or Ben Greenwood ben.greenwood@tgcmc.co.uk


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