Glee 2015 has been a great success
As Glee 2015 moved into the last afternoon, Event Director Matthew Mein, popped into the Glee Daily News office to give us his closing comments on a Glee that has been a great success...
As Glee 2015 moved into the last afternoon, Event Director Matthew Mein, popped into the Glee Daily News office to give us his closing comments on a Glee that has been a great success.
"The change of dates meant that from day one the show started with great energy and that has built great momentum. Feedback from exhibitors has been extremely positive and from a visitor's persective the 190 new exhibitors at Glee this year, showcasing thousands of new products, has been most inspirational.
"Thank you to all of the 500 exhibitors who've put on a fantastic showcase that sets the garden industry in a great light for 2016 and thank you to all the visitors, many of whom I've seen here for all three days of the show.
"The Glee New Product Showcase really set the bar for next season with some great innovations and some fantsatic new takes on old ideas that will undoubtedly sell very well.
"I look forward to seeing you all next year on Monday 12th September through to Wednesday 14th September at Glee 2016."
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Bright NEW ideas for nights outside…
New technology-led products from Cole & Bright, Gardman's solar lighting brand, guarantee to deliver year round lighting, no matter what the weather...
New technology-led Cole & Bright products from Gardman guarantee to deliver year round lighting, no matter what the weather! The dual power technology icon on pack is a clue to one of the most useful recent advances in the brand’s solar lighting category. Dual power lighting features one rechargeable battery and one alkaline battery to take over when the rechargeable battery has less than 10% charge, this clever design means solar lighting can now be enjoyed all year round, not just in the brightest months. In a choice of five sizes – 50, 75, 100, 150 or 200 LEDs – all automatically switch on at dusk and off after 8 hours, via an in-built timer. The light’s mode can be switched between constant, flashing or twinkle. SRPs range from £12.99 to £24.99, they each come complete with batteries and come in distinctive ‘try me’ packaging that conveys the technology and associated benefits to maximize stand-out on shelf. Also new in Cole & Bright’s battery operated range is a stylish collection of wooden lanterns, that each come complete with a flameless battery operated candle (pictured left). In eight on-trend designs (six featuring an inbuilt on/off memory timer), they are named after famous British lighthouses! All the lanterns are suitable for indoor or outdoor use and made from 100% FSC certified wood. SRPs range from £14.99 to £29.99, batteries included. As the UK’s leading solar lighting brand*, Cole & Bright has set the pace in the category with a host of new fashion-led designs and technological innovations. You can see the latest results of their intensive NPD programme at Glee, where the new LED dual power solar string lights will be on display together with the brand’s new wooden lanterns. *Based on Garden Trade News published Best SellersBased on Garden Trade News published Best Sellers
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Kelkay is showcasing its Country Cottages collection of self contained water features within its extensive line-up of new product launches at Glee.
Three choices make up the stunning Country Cottages range - Bramble, Old Mill and Tudor. Each one oozes exquisite detail and exceptional quality. Designed by Kelkay, the water features measure 490mm high x 440mm wide x 400mm deep and include LED lights, giving them a daylong glow.
Kelkay will be delivering the Country Cottages to retailers from October. Visitors to the stands at Glee 2015 in September will be offered a special cost deal to include three of each model and an exclusive PoS display board. Antony Harker, managing director of Kelkay, said: “The Country Cottages water features collection will be a must-stock for garden centres as Christmas approaches but are also ideal as an all year round product. As always, we’re offering retailers fantastic merchandising solutions, giving them every opportunity to maximise sales.” 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. Kelkay are 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.
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Taylors give value daffodil nets a POS push
Among the many new and newly-re-packaged products on the Taylors Bulbs stand is the value net of British-grown daffodils, displayed in a brand new eye-catching design of printed tray...
Among the many new and newly-re-packaged products on the Taylors Bulbs stand is the value net of British-grown daffodils, displayed in a brand new design of printed tray. The trays, designed for impulse hotspot sales, will also be used to display Taylors fresh cut-flower daffodils next spring. Check out the new Colourful Bulb Gift Bags and a selection of new added value gift kits on the stand. Director Adam Taylor says his company has seen fantastic sales results from centres who take care to display added value bulb gifts in the same manner as they would other gift lines, not necessarily in the bulb area but in gift or houseplant areas of the centre. Another eye-catcher – seen for the first time at Glee - is the new box design for amaryllis, which will be delivered in to stores around the first week of October. Re-designed packaging for Taylors’ Choice, Select and Classic Combinations pre-packs are also displayed on the stand (19G02)
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Coalite joins forces with Deco-Pak
Two of the UK's most respected brands have teamed up to produce a new winter fuel product for garden centres. In conjunction with Coalite, Deco-Pak, is distributing 'Coalite Ovals', which is being launched at Glee 2015 alongside 'House Coal' - a new product from Deco-Pak's own Heatwave range...
 Two of the UK's most respected brands have teamed up to produce a new winter fuel product for garden centres. In conjunction with Coalite, Deco-Pak, is distributing 'Coalite Ovals', which is being launched at Glee 2015 alongside 'House Coal' - a new product from Deco-Pak's own Heatwave range.Both products are packaged in newly designed waterproof packs that together create a unified look. The collaboration with Coalite is a step forward for Deco-Pak in terms of cementing its reputation as a quality supplier, and will also provide retailers with cost-effective access to a well known brand. Clearly labeled with hints and tips, the new additions to Deco-Pak's extensive product range even come with links to exclusive YouTube content. Both products are long-lasting with a high heat output and low ash production, the only difference being that Deco-Pak's traditional House Coal is made from A-grade coal that burns with an attractive flame, whereas the Coalite Ovals is easier to light and produces lower CO² - ideal for smoke controlled areas. Rod Slater, Deco-Pak's general manager said: "Garden centres and other businesses that rely on the weather could, in my opinion, become much better known for providing great value winter fuel. With the existing demographic that visits the garden centre, we know the market is already there, and with more and more consumers using stoves and fireplaces to keep their homes warm, there is even greater potential there for keeping the tills warm during the cold months." 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.
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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.”
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Introducing '2016' - a new seed blend for home grown football stars of the future
Johnsons Lawn Seed - Glee stand 18H26-K25
The French UEFA Euro 2016 finals (10th June - 10th July 2016) will once again inspire millions of kids all over the UK to tear up their back lawns as they try to emulate their idols' football prowess. One company that recognises the profit potential of such events is Johnsons Lawn Seed, who are using Glee 2015 as a launchpad for its new ‘2016’ lawn seed mix, specifically designed to help create the perfect pitch for future Rooney’s, Messi’s, or Ronaldo’s...
 The French UEFA Euro 2016 finals (10th June - 10th July 2016) will once again inspire millions of kids all over the UK to tear up their back lawns as they try to emulate their idols' football prowess. One company that recognises the profit potential of such events is Johnsons Lawn Seed, who are using Glee 2015 as a launchpad for its new ‘2016’ lawn seed mix, specifically designed to help create the perfect pitch for future Rooney’s, Messi’s, or Ronaldo’s.Whether customers are proud parents of England's future football stars or simply proud lawn owners, Johnsons Lawn Seed's Turfline ‘2016’ is an amenity ryegrass mix that presents the opportunity to raise the game by offering the same varieties of grass supplied to the majority of the Euro 2016 stadia. Johnsons Lawn Seed expert Guy Jenkins said: "’2016’ provides retailers with a unique opportunity to tap into the football fever scheduled to kick off in the run up to the event and long after. Being able to sell the same lawn seed being used on the world stage will delight customers that will ask 'how can I create my own football pitch for my back lawn?” To celebrate the launch of ‘2016’ at Glee 2015, Johnsons Lawn Seed’s stand is going football crazy, with a football trickster performing for the crowds and lots of freebies and giveaways available on stand. Essential stats for player-managers The new blend is designed to create a hard wearing lawn that establishes quickly and provides an all year round playing surface, while retaining a good colour and appearance. Sowing anytime between March and October will result in seedlings appearing in 7-14 days in good growing conditions. The Science of Football pitches - and how to upsell with linked products Professional football pitches are serious business. Here we look at the science behind the pitch and how retailers can incorporate aspects into their retailing methods. - Size - interestingly professional pitches can measure anywhere between 100 yards (90 metres) and 130 yards (120 metres) in length, and between 50 yards (45 metres) and 100 yards (90 metres) wide. To scale that down for the average back lawn, simply measure the width of the proposed playing area and add 30% for the length to ensure correct proportions for the pitch. Pitch marking can be done with twine of course, but for established lawns, offer chalk spray markers such as Johnsons Lawn Seed's Grass Graffiti.
- Drainage - playing areas must be situated on a free draining surface and FIFA guidelines state that the gradient should be between 1 and 100, allowing for any surface water to drain at a minimum of 100mm/hour. Professional pitches have networks of underground drainage pipes to make sure pitches drain quickly and efficiently, so if the customer is starting from scratch you may want to offer professional landscaping services to help them create a surface to rival the top teams.
- Irrigation - if the pitch drains efficiently it is important to make sure it doesn't dry out during hot weather - offer sprinklers for customers to purchase and employ on the most used areas.
- Maintenance during the playing season - goalmouths and other worn out patches will need addressing during the playing season, so advise customers to keep a ready-made supply of seed and sand or lawn dressing - mixed at a rate of approximately 50/50. Professional groundskeepers keep a stock of pre-germinated seedlings - but growing in small batches is advisable to avoid wasting seed.
Find out more To find out more about Johnsons Lawn Seed, visit www.johnsonslawnseed.com, email consumer@dlf.co.uk, or telephone 01386 791113.
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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.
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Leading decorative garden structures and fencing company, Grange, has unveiled its beautiful new ‘Contemporary’ range at this year’s Glee.The ‘Contemporary’ is a premium range offering consumers modern designs combined with the highest quality materials providing substantial, solid decorative garden features. The range includes a ‘Contemporary’ heavy duty Gate that has an integral metal frame and planed and rounded slats, creating a seamless look when used with the ‘Contemporary’ Panel. It can also be used alongside the Fusion Trellis, which is a unique design combining wood and metal to create a heavy duty, eye catching modern look. The range also features the Square, Tall and Rectangular ‘Contemporary’ planters all of which are elegant, whilst still being substantial and robust. These can be used together or as standalone features. The planters come fully assembled and are pressure treated to protect against wood rot to ensure a longer life. The stand out features of the range are the ‘Contemporary’ Garden Arbour and the ‘Contemporary’ Garden Arch. The beautiful Arbour has a real presence. With modern straight lines and stunning curved roof, it is the perfect space in which to relax as well as being ideal for growing climbing plants. The ‘Contemporary’ Arch is a stunning addition to the range. It is substantial, yet elegant, with the arch, posts and slats being planed, rounded and chamfered for a modern look. “Our new ‘Contemporary’ range is the result of detailed consumer research and listening closely to customer feedback. We discovered that there was a demand in the market for a premium range of products which were not only substantial but also aesthetically attractive,” explains Antony Barrett, Trade Marketing Manager at Grange. “This range can be used together to create a chic coordinated look, or as separate standalone features, offering consumers a flexible approach to garden zoning and design,” adds Antony. Retailers interested in working with Grange should contact the company on 01952 588 088 or email sales@grangefen.co.uk.
Grange are on stand 20D20-E21.
Pictured are: Managing director Neil Taylor with head of marketing Rob Giles, e-commerce executive Jade Hill and national sales manager Ian Rickhuss.
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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.
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See pictures of the Green Heart plant merchandising displays
Anglo Aquatics won the best display award in the Green Heart of Glee 2015.
Judge Kevin Waters presented the award along with Event Director Matthew Mein and HTA CEO Carol Paris in the Atrium Green Heart Area on Wednesday lunchtime.
Kevin Waters has been giving guided tours of the Green Heart Area during the show which included 12 month by month plant merchanising ideas. Dougal Philip from New Hoptoun Gardens said after his team took a tour on Wednesday morning: "That has been the most valuable and rewarding thing we've done at Glee and added enormously to all of the other ideas and products we've seen in the halls. We will definately be back for another Green Heart tour in 2016."
If you missed Kevin's tour this year, here are pictures of the 12 merchandising displays...
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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...
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
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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.
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Glee Buyers Power List 2015 winners
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
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Adam Wigglesworth, 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.
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The winner of the Glee Retailers Choice Award for 2015 was the Uuni 2 woodfired pizza oven.
Retailers voted throughout Glee 2015 for their choice of the best new product with the winners announced by Event Director Matthew Mein and HTA CEO Carol Paris at Glee this morning (Wednesday 16th September.)
Two other products received highly commended awards:
 Deco-Pak for their Buddha head and
 Eden Greenhouses for their Birdlip Greenhouse.
The stylish RHS Heritage range of planters on the Apta stand (19C20-E21) were a hit with visitors.
These fabulous new lightweight planters draw on the unique heritage of the RHS as their inspiration.
They include the society's original shield emblem and feature the date '1804', the year of the organisation's foundation, as well as a traditional design found on metal pots dating back centuries.
Available in two colours - Antique Lead Grey and Verdi Gris - they evoke a bygone era and grace any garden setting.
Pictured above is James Hoad from Apta.
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Just 6 weeks after Westland's purchase of Arthur Bowers, Growing Success and other businesses from Sinclairs, the Westland stand has been busy all show as retailers find out more about the plans for the brands going forwards.
Keith Nichloson, Marketing Director of Westland Horticulture told Glee Daily News "It's been very positive, it's been really simple. We've kept it very straight forward, we've focussd on the brands that the retailers know and trust, listened to their feedback and acted upon it."
"Customers call Westland and they can order any of our products, it's as simple and straight forward as that."
"The brands have fitted so well."
"Here at Glee it's as though they have always been together and we've had that feedback from many of our customers both existing and new."
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Sweeping success for Bosmere at Glee
Bosmere have launched a new range of FSC-timber approved brushes at Glee and they created lots of interest over the three days of Glee. The Lawnmower Brush was a particlar favourite, said sales and marketing director Steve Millington...
Bosmere have launched a new range of FSC-timber approved brushes at Glee and they created lots of interest over the three days of Glee. The Lawnmower Brush was a particlar favourite, said sales and marketing director Steve Millington.
All the brushes in the range are ergonomically designed and feature robust wooden handles.
Another unqiue feature is the screw and lock device which secures the handle to the brush.
Bosmere are on stand 19G30-H31.
The Besp-Oak stand (17T10-U11) was a hive of activity on all three days of the show and a particular favourite was the range of Vintage Display Crates.
Jane Mosley, wife of owner Steve, and their daughter Lottie are pictured with the range on the third day of hectic business.
Another popular item on the Besp-Oak stand was the range of water features, which sold out on the first morning of Glee. The company then took plenty of orders for the range, seen below with Rebecca Currie from Besp-Oak.
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Crest Flopro gets a resounding thumbs up at Glee
A year ago one of the new exhibitors at Glee was Crest, set up by Nick Davies with backing from Westland Horticulture. A year on, Glee Daily News asked Nick about the reaction to Crest, one year on from their initial showing at Glee 2014...
A year ago one of the new exhibitors at Glee was Crest, set up by Nick Davies with backing from Westland Horticulture. A year on, Glee Daily News asked Nick about the reaction to Crest, one year on from their initial showing at Glee 2014. “The reaction has been extremely good, we’ve had great reaction on our range of tools, we’ve had a lot of interest and a number of big orders placed on the new range of Garden Life and Flopro has been a resounding success. “We have created a good alternative for the market on watering. We’ve got a good, better, best option we have re-designed a lot of the guns, a lot of the fittings, very much tuned into the customer requirement of no leaks.” “Flopro is the good, Flopro plus is the better and then Flopro elite which is the metal option. Flopro and Flopro plus are both made from virgin polymer, with the Flopro plus range being made from ABS plastic which is stronger, highly polished and it has super a supergrip connection which means it has a permanent connection that allows the hose to fit in deeper, therefore reducing the possibility of leaks, explained Crest's Lisa Blackmore, pictured with Nick Davies.
Read more about Crest, their Flopro range and their range of lightweight Kent and Stowe tools in the October issue of GTN.
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Christmas gifts for everyone from Wildlife World
Wildlife World has created a wonderful selection of specialist products suitable for the garden including birds, bees, hedgehogs and minibeasts that would make a perfect gift for wildlife enthusiasts or keen gardeners of all ages...
Wildlife World has created a wonderful selection of specialist products suitable for the garden including birds, bees, hedgehogs and minibeasts that would make a perfect gift for wildlife enthusiasts or keen gardeners of all ages.With such a wide offering of products, Wildlife World has the ideal gift for every person’s taste, including its new, award-winning Urban range, the festive Robin Teapot Nester, the Swing Seat Feeder and the Bee and Bug Biome with something suitable for gardens of all sizes and environments.
At Glee there was great interest in the whole range of Wildlife World products.
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Greenacres Artificial Grass exhibited the Puppi Loo pet training system at Glee and it created lots of interest.
Managing director Peter Johnson said the product was designed after feedback at other trade shows about the need for an absorbent feature.
The synthetic grass mat has a base tray containing absorbent training pads. The owner of a puppy can train the animal to use the mat indoors and then gradually take it outdoors where it can be positioned in either a real grass lawn or an artificial one.
Pet Rebellion's car seat cover is a winner
Pet Rebellion returned to Glee this year after missing the show in 2014 and they were pleased with the response to their unique range of pet carpets, particularly the car seat cover...
 Pet Rebellion returned to Glee this year after missing the show in 2014 and they were pleased with the response to their unique range of pet carpets, particularly the car seat cover.
Managing director Ray Foard said: "We were hopeful of meeting buyers from small chains of garden centres and independents and I must admit we've had great interest in our range.
"The car seat carpet has been a particular favourite because visitors to the stand can see its unique design features."
Pet Rebellion are on stand 17P68.
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Natural pet food specialists Natures Menu were exhibiting at Glee for the first time and it was regarded as a successful show.
Natures Menu are the UK's and Europe"s No 1 experts on raw and natural food for dogs and cats.
Their award-winning range is made with ethically sourced human grade meat and wholesome ingredients.
Business development director Peter Roy said: "More garden centres are taking an interest in this sector of the market and we sold a good number of our freezers at the show."
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
REMEMBER TO COLLECT YOUR FREE GLEE SHOW CATALOGUE AT THE ENTRANCES.
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Just 6 weeks after Westland's purchase of Arthur Bowers, Growing Success and other businesses from Sinclairs, the Westland stand has been busy all show as retailers find out more about the plans for the brands going forwards...
