With over 320 entries this year, the Glee New Product Showcase, in association with GTN, generated huge interest as Glee opened on Tuesday morning with hundreds visitors heading to the stand as part of their planning of visits for the rest of the show.

Prior to the show opening, the panel of Glee New Products judges (pictured below) started the process of making their selections from the new products entered into the showcase across the product categories.

From the initial judging process the products with the top scores in each category have been announced and they now have the opportunity to make a pitch to the judges this afternoon, before the final decisions on the winners are made. 

Glee New Product Awards 2023 Pitching Shortlist and running order – part 2

Wednesday 9:30 start on The Stage

9:30      Gifts

MightyBugs                                                              Andermatt - 7E45

Paint your Own Solar Butterfly Light                     The Solar Centre - 6H20-J21

Playpress Vets Mini Playset                                     Playpress Toys - 8G51

RHS Gifts for Gardeners 'Asteraceae' herb set               Burgon & Ball - 6E30-F31

Xtend Bike                                                                Robbie Toys Limited - 8G46, 8G42

09:50    Home

Botanical Wax Melts (Darjeeling Delights).           The Flora Lab - 8F71

Fire Starters: set of 12                                            Candles @ Miss Soy - 8F54

Recycled Bottle Scarf                                              Art on Scarves - 8F56

Tapestry Bee Door Stop                                          The Wheat Bag Company - 7A71

10:05    Leisure & Entertaining

Eco Fuego                                                                 Eco Fuego - 7D86, OS7

Firestorm Phoenix Pellet Patio Heater                   Pinnacle Agri Products Ltd - 6D06, OS27

Zest Stirling Arbour                                                  Zest Outdoor Living - 20D30-E31

Zest Terraza Outdoor Kitchen                                Zest Outdoor Living - 20D30-E31

10:20    Tools & Machinery

AMES Digging Spade                                               AMES UK - 6C40-F41

AMES Double Sided Soil Rake                                AMES UK - 6C40-F41

Kent & Stowe Surecut Loppers & Shears               Westland Unwins - 20F40-G41

Wing-Lock Hose Connector                                     QuickHose - 7F51

10:35    Garden Decoration

DécorDisk                                                                  Smart Garden Products Limited - 20G40-H41

FireFly Solar Garden Light                                      The Solar Centre - 6H20-J21

Gemini Solar Wall Light pk of 2                              The Solar Centre - 6H20-J21

10:50    Growing Containers

Cottage Garden 12L Beehive Planter                     EP Barrus Ltd - 20D40-E41

EcoMade Indoor Hemp Planters                             Woodlodge Products - 20B30-C31

Tierra Verde Planters - New Collection                  Primeur Ltd - 20B22-C23

11:05    Growing Accessories

ClipGlove Warm 'n' Waterproof                             Treadstone Products - 20J58

Germie - Reusable seed growing kit                      Germie - 7F85

Memory Foam Folding Kneeler                              EP Barrus Ltd - 20D40-E41

Verty Plant Anchoring System                                Verty - 7C81

Zest Eco Hive Composter                                        Zest Outdoor Living - 20D30-E31

Zest Tall Botanical Greenhouse                              Zest Outdoor Living - 20D30-E31

11:30    Growing Materials

BugNet                                                        Andermatt - 7E45

Coco & Coir Houseplant Compost            Southern Trident Limited - 6H54-J55

RocketGro Tomato food                            RocketGro - 6B50-C51

Vitax Liquid Acer Feed                               Vitax Ltd - 20E40-F41

11:45    Plants Seeds & Bulbs

BEES® Gardener's Calendar                                                  G Plants Ltd - 20B71

Brtish Mini Orchid in Ceramic grown in Peat Free Media   The Horti House - 6E84, NB54, NB56

Nymphya Purple Fantasy                                                      Anglo Aquatic – Green Heart

Petunia Bridal Blush                     Colegrave Seabrook Foundation/Kerley & Co. - NB21

Petunia Tumbelina Nicola           Colegrave Seabrook Foundation/Kerley & Co. - NB21

Each shortlisted product exhibitor has 2 minutes to pitch their new product to the judges and answer any questions, then the final winners will be announced at 5pm on Wednesday, at The Stage.

The following categories and shortlisted products were pitched to the judges on Tuesday afternoon:

Wild Bird Care and Wildlife Products

Barrel Bird Nestbox, Wildlife World

Chicken Snack Tower, Fauna Bird

Gardman Wild Bird Novelty Suet Treats, Westland Unwins

Peckish Natural Balance Coco-Not® Wild Bird Feeders, Westland Unwins

Solar Powered WiFi Bird Box Camera, Green Feathers

Pet Products

Earthy Sustainable medium pet bowl made with coffee, Earthy Sustainable

Extra-Large Compostable Poo Bags, Twiggy Tags Ltd

GET OFF Lawn Rescue, Sipcam Home and Garden

Pet Bed Toppe, The Wheat Bag Company

TrailFinder Dog Safety Light, Twiggy Tags Ltd

DIY Products

Exterior Wood Stain, Furniture Clinic

Garden Furniture Restoration Kit, Furniture Clinic

Racan Premium Anti-Rodent Sealant (RACARSM),  Lodi UK

Landscaping

Oriental Stepping Stones, Meadow View Stone Limited

Rubber Play Space Tiles, Primeur Ltd

Shell Chippings, Deco-pak

Retail Services & Experiences

QCR GLS1 Glass Bottle Crusher, QCR Recycling Equipment Ltd

Indoor Gardening Essentials Merchandising Solutions (G.E.M.S), Westland Unwins

Tumblebug On Site Food Waste Processor and Mushroom Farm, Tumblebug Ltd

See you at The Stage!

The winners of the Glee Buyers Power List were revealed today. The Glee Buyers Power List was set up to recognise the individual buyers and buying teams who have gone above and beyond to make a difference within the garden retail industry this year.

The Nominations and Winners 2023 

Plants buyer/buying team of the Year

Winner: Colin Dale (Notcutts)

Second: Tom Cook (British Garden Centres)

Third: Zoe Willis (Perrywood)

Nominations: Zoe Willis (Perrywood), Colin Dale (Notcutts), Marcus Eyles (Dobbies), Tom Cook (British Garden Centres), Marcus Cousins (Aylett Nurseries)

Garden Care buyer/buying team of the Year 

Winner: Al Sheppard (Haskins)

Second: Selina Hammond (Perrywood)

Third: Terry Head (Stewarts Garden Centres)

Nominations: Selina Hammond (Perrywood), Al Sheppard (Haskins), Elizabeth Brennan (Dobbies), Bryn Saysall (Blue Diamond), Terry Head (Stewarts Garden Centres)

Outdoor Leisure buyer/buying team of the Year 

Winner: Nigel Gates (Gates Garden Centre)

Second: Jay Bunker (Alton Garden Centre)

Third: Matt Shorter (Longacres)

Nominations: Lynsey Abbott (Dobbies), Nigel Gates (Gates Garden Centre), Jay Bunker (Alton Garden Centre), Matt Shorter (Longacres), Liz Finney (Chacewater Garden Centre)

Landscape buyer/buying team of the Year

Winner: Dan Kirby (British Garden Centres)

Second: Scott Proven (Klondyke)

Third: John Birch (Baytree)

Nominations: Scott Proven (Klondyke), John Birch (Baytree), Dan Kirby (British Garden Centres), David Danning (Blue Diamond), Keith Wilbin (Downtown Garden Centre)

Home & Gifts buyer/buying team of the Year 

Winner: Jodie Smith (Perrywood)

Second: Al Sheppard (Haskins)

Third: Kati Taylor (Fron Goch)

Nominations: Jodie Smith (Perrywood), Sara Cooksley (Dobbies), Al Sheppard (Haskins), Tom Grinnell (Blue Diamond), Kati Taylor (Fron Goch)

Pet buyer/buying team of the Year

Winner: The Old Railway Line

Second: Paul Williams (British Garden Centres)

Third: Planters Tamworth

Nominations: Ryan Holmes (Dobbies), Planters Tamworth, The Old Railway Line, Dan Reep (Squires), Paul Williams (British Garden Centres)

Retail Food & Drinks buyer/buying team of the Year 

Winner: Bents Garden & Home

Second: Sarah Jaques (Perrywood)

Third: Pughs Radyr

Nominations: Sarah Jaques (Perrywood), Amy Siergiejew (Dobbies), Garsons Esher, Bents Garden & Home, Pughs Radyr

Christmas buyer/buying team of the Year

Winner: Rachel Churcher (Perrywood)

Second: Louise Burks (The Gardens Group)

Third: Lynsey Abbott (Dobbies)

Nominations: Rachel Churcher (Perrywood), Lynsey Abbott (Dobbies), Lynn Charlick (Meadowcroft), Louise Burks (The Gardens Group), Andrew Porwal (Sapcote)

On-Line buyer/buying team of the Year 

Winner: Helen Hensaw (Crocus)

Nominations: James Oakley (Hayloft Plants), Helen Hensaw (Crocus)

Overall Multiple Retailer Buyer/Buying Team of the Year – (hardware, DIY, high street)

Winner: QD Stores

Second: B&M

Third: John Lewis

Nominations: Home Bargains, QD Stores, B&M, John Lewis, Robert Dyas

Overall Multiple Garden Retailer Buying Team of the Year – 6 stores or more

Winner: Blue Diamond

Second: British Garden Centres

Third: Squires

Nominations: Dobbies, Blue Diamond, Klondyke, British Garden Centres, Squires

Overall Independent Garden Centre Buying Team of the Year – up to 5 stores 

Winner: Haskins

Second: Perrywood

Third: The Gardens Group

Nominations: Perrywood, Haskins, Longacres, St Peters, The Gardens Group, Pughs

After weeks of planning, the winners of the Glee Talent Store have been announced on the first day of Glee.

There could only be one winner out of the two teams and it was the Outdoor Plants merchandising team that impressed the judges Debbie Flowerday, Visual Merchandiser and Stylist Consultant, and Peter Burks, CEO of the GCA.

The winning team consisting of Katherine Davies (Pugh’s Garden Centre), Freya Markwood and Amber Dowsett (Perrywood Garden Centre), Nathan Evans (Bents Garden & Home), Louisa Power and Damian Walker (British Garden Centres). The team’s merchandising concept of a bug hotel aimed to give visitors an ‘out of the box’ ideas on how products can be showcased whilst keeping sustainability at the heart of the display.

Concepts included a tablescape of edible ideas that not only look good but taste good too, a pond in a pot that will make a difference to the ecosystem in customers’ outdoor space, a display of pollinating plants to create a wildlife sanctuary, as well as a wildlife product display that will turn the garden into a bug wonderland.

The runner-up group made up of Clare Forster (British Garden Centres), Natasha Priddy (Pugh’s Garden Centre,) Claire Baker (Bents Garden & Home), Abby Barbrook (Perrywood Garden Centre) and Matthew Bone designed a pop-up shop that took visitors on a walkthrough houseplants in a world of colour saturation, inspired by recent popular palettes from Trend Bible.  

Each colour of, blue, green, pink and yellow, took people on a journey and reflected different moods.  Each colour acts as a visual draw with specially chosen houseplants and containers to create visual and eye catching interest.

Debbie Flowerday said: “I’d like to congratulate all participants in the inaugural Glee Talent Store.  Both teams worked hard to create exciting and innovative concepts that garden retailers can take home and try in store. Visual merchandising is an important part of the retail experience and is responsible for attracting and making customer’s purchasing decisions.  Everything you see in the Glee Talent Store at the show can be used to create a scene and retail theatre, guiding customers through a store, and we hope that retailers are inspired to try these simple tips when they get back to their businesses.”

What is the Glee Talent Store?

Designed to nurture and celebrate garden centre and retail visual merchandising excellence, the Glee Talent Store is an interactive feature that showcases the different ways that houseplant and outdoor plant merchandising displays can be interpreted in store, and how different designs can be utilised to highlight the same products and trends in a variety of inspiring ways. 

The Glee Talent Store kicked off with a ‘bootcamp’ where 24 entrants had a crash course in visual merchandising, branding and retail. Once they had received this insight, 11 Talent Store students were selected and tasked with designing their own pop-up store, which can be viewed in the Atrium at Glee alongside the Glee’s ‘Green Heart’.

Find out more 

Glee remains open until Thursday 29^th June at the NEC Birmingham. Every year the exhibition connects the garden industry to inspire change, drive growth and launch innovation​.

To keep up to date on the latest Glee news visit www.gleebirmingham.com.  

Online registration for Glee is live, enabling buyers and retailers to get online and book their free ticket for the UK’s leading garden retail exhibition.

To register for Glee 2023, simply visit https://glee23-registration.personatech.com/ and confirm your attendance at the show.

Glee returned to the NEC Birmingham in style today (Tuesday) with the exhibition halls a hive of activity as soon as the doors opened at 9am.

An impressive list of suppliers were joined by UK and international key decision makers, buyers and trend setters, to showcase the future of gardening.

This year’s show has brought together hundreds of brands and thousands of exciting products under one roof, providing garden buyers with an ideal opportunity to ‘shop’ new ranges to boost their retail offering.

There are still two days to go – Wednesday and Thursday – to see all the latest new products so if you’re still planning your trip make sure you register for free entry. Click here to register now.

As the doors open on Glee 2023, Apta – one of the nation’s most beloved pot suppliers – enters an exciting new chapter with introduction of the new Apta Lightweight range.

This fabulous new range is the result of a creative partnership between Apta and fellow industry stalwart, formwerk - part of the Scheurich Group – who boasts unrivalled expertise spanning several decades, with formwerk having a long track record of supplying outdoor pots within Europe. The first result of this partnership is the Apta Lightweight range, which is to specialise in rotational moulded pots and launches with two unique collections – Weben and Beton.

Characterised by first-class, energy-efficient production and optimum workflows to maintain quality control, this new partnership develops a new generation of plastic pots which showcases the true value of lightweight solutions within the UK marketplace. With trend led designs normally seen in classic planter mediums but at a fraction of the weight, Apta Lightweight is set to amaze consumers, whilst the robust quality and 10-year guarantee will offer even more peace of mind for shoppers. All of this together means Apta Lightweight will plug the gap where rotational moulded designs were once lacking.

Commenting at the launch of Apta Lightweight at Glee 2023, AMES UK’s Managing Director, Paul North said: “Apta Lightweight marks a true next chapter for the Apta brand, and one that we believe will offer real tangible value for our retail customers. 

“Our new lightweight offering, alongside Apta’s existing products, means the brand will now have a product hierarchy that opens up container gardening to all consumer demographics. In doing so, Apta reaffirms itself as the go-to supplier for all things pots.

“The scale of this venture is only possible due to our ground-breaking new partnership with formwerk. Being able to work so closely with the production team to curate a product profile that best suits Apta’s needs has been an incredible journey that I’m sure is representative of a long and prosperous working relationship.”

A spokesperson for formwerk, added: “As market leader and powerful supplier for all kind of outdoor planters formwerk is proud to be chosen as Apta’s new partner to develop the Apta Lightweight product range. The excellent know-how of both players, the use of very modern and sustainable production technologies, and our great logistic capacity are a good basis for a successful long-term relationship we are very much looking forward to.” 

About Apta Lightweight

Boasting strong environmental credentials, the full Apta Lightweight offering will be constructed from recycled materials and the pots will be fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan. Perfect for indoor and outdoor usage, every product will be frost and UV resistant. 

Two collections will officially launch the range, both the result of significant market research undertaken by AMES UK to identify those trends which have mass consumer appeal. Weben will showcase “woven” designs in three neutral colourways and three pot sizes to choose from, whilst Beton will feature four “concrete” planters in the same three neutral colourways. 

Season 24 will also see the transition of the Plant Avenue brand into Apta Lightweight to create an all-encompassing lightweight range. Previously part of the Kelkay portfolio and having been incorporated into Apta last year, rebranding Plant Avenue will allow Apta to truly lead the way with a full portfolio of planters across all material types and orderable from one trusted supplier.  

Don’t miss out

To find out more about the Apta Lightweight launch, including how you can start stocking it, please visit www.apta.co.uk.  For more details on the AMES UK family of brands please visit https://ames-uk.com/

Woodmansterne presented a cheque for £11,000 to Greenfingers charity on their stand at Glee today (Tuesday).

The impressive donation was made following a fundraising campaign, which included a special Greenfingers range of greetings cards.

Linda Petrons, from Greenfingers, said: “Woodmansterne are such a joy to work with and we are really pleased to receive this cheque. It will make a huge difference.”

Seth Woodmansterne commented: “We met Linda at Glee in 2021 and learned about the fantastic work of Greenfingers. After the meeting we felt we needed to play our part in raising funds for this special charity.

“We decided to launch a special Greenfingers range of cards and along with other fundraising activity we are now able to present a cheque for £11,000 to the charity. 

“We will continue to support Greenfingers and will soon be launching a range of Christmas products.”

As Woodlodge embarks on its latest visit to Glee, it is delighted to announce some exciting new designs and additions that will join its already successful decorative planter ranges and place them under the buyers’ spotlight.

EcoMade extension

With ocean plastic pollution still a pressing environmental concern and a successful launch of EcoMade at last year’s Glee, Woodlodge is continuing to manufacture its innovative planter range made from plastic dumped on beaches and in the sea into its new designs.

Making their debut at Glee 2024, the EcoMade squares are available in a traditional panel style and modern, clean-lined square. The new squares are a perfect statement accent to any outdoor space, look stylish and are good for eco-savvy consumers too.  Constructed from ocean-reclaimed material including reclaimed fishing nets and ropes, EcoMade’s squares deliver an amazingly attractive planter with rolled edges, resulting in a sleek, finished appearance.

When merchandised together with the existing round EcoMade planters, retailers can display the full versatility of this single pot range through colour and shape, and pots in different sizes to create the illusion of height and texture.

New for Heritage Garden

There is no doubt that the Heritage Garden pottery collection, the flagship container range is a winner for both retailers and gardeners in the UK. The latest container gardening trends have seen the Heritage Garden range being one of the most photographed planters on social media and with this in mind,  Woodlodge is proud to unveil new designs for its most popular market-leading brand.

New for 2024 is the Heritage Edwin Garden Planter Jars and Bowls in blue and green reactive glazes.  With reactive glazed colours popular this year, consumers are gravitating towards interesting shades as they look to harmonise with nature. The jar shape of these new Heritage designs will be perfect for a country cottage-style container, whilst blending seamlessly into the natural environment.

With terracotta landscaping proving popular at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show, the look, feel and style of the Mediterranean can be recreated at retailers with the new Heritage Elizaplanters will provide warm tones with its ribbed, just-thrown design.  The soothing terracotta hues are also apparent with Heritage’s newest Audley design, with its handle and cylinder pots looking like they could belong to a larger garden in Tuscany as well as our urban garden.

Additions to Earthenware

Terracotta and natural shades are the latest trend taking over Instagram feeds and Woodlodge has taken these rich, earthy tones and applied them to the latest Earthenware designs to be revealed at Glee. We've been seeing the use of natural materials and artisan products take centre stage as we connect back with nature and the new Earthenware shapes and styles will help retailers tap into this consumer trend in store.

The earthy red colour of fired terracotta, ceramics and pottery is timeless and is one of the trends that will never go out of fashion.  Earthenware’s latest designs are made from natural and organic materials such as clay and come as beautifully proportioned classical pots or bowls.   Planters come with artisan-inspired patterns that have been etched into the terracotta, an aged finish, or glazes in opaque green, gold and black to together decorative elements in the garden,

Retailers can get all fired up over the Earthenware collection which epitomises Greek culture which will complement a whole array of plants whilst slotting in seamlessly on the sales floor and with garden greenery.

Michael Wooldridge, Director of Woodlodge said: “Retailers know better than anyone that consumers are now seeking eco-friendly products that are kind to the environment as well as their pockets.  The new EcoMade square planters will help them satisfy that demand whilst the additions to Heritage Garden and Earthenware will only reinforce the existing collections’ exclusive design, quality and durability."

A lawn cannot be underestimated. It extends the home, evoking a sense of pride and provides a playground. Lawns play a vital role in promoting environmental health. Lawns absorbing CO2, they regulate surface temperatures, absorb rainfall, and attract wildlife. With our newly developed range of lawn care products, we make it easy for consumers achieve their perfect lawn.

Research

Our extensive research showed very clearly that our consumers lacked clarity on the claims made on pack throughout the industry. That there were lots of brands looking similar which lead to further confusion, it was hard to make a clear choice and nothing on the shelf really jumped out at them. Leaving participation in purchasing lawn care low, and walk away at fixture high. This in turn led us to create a clear range to solve all of these issues and meet our consumer’s needs. 

Inspiring over 1.5m new consumers to improve their lawns

Our new lawn care range helps to create, maintain or enhance existing lawns. 

Creating a new lawn has never been easier with our range of Gro-Sure lawn seed. The Gro-Sure promise guarantees that our lawn seed will grow in all soil types. Our varieties are colour matched for consistent results across the entire range. So year after year, their lawn will be that same lush green.

Maintaining an existing lawn is childsplay with our child and pet friendly lawn feed - SafeLawn. A natural choice for consumers that want a luscious, green, and healthy lawn. A fast effective alternative is our All In One Lawn Feed, Weed & Moss Killer which will feed lawns as well as kill the weeds and moss. 

Our products also include ‘Enhancing’ lawn solutions that help consumers resolve specific problems with their lawns. So consumers can use Lawn Thickener to refresh thin weary lawn, enjoy the Ultimate green lawn by using Lawn Ultra Green, remove moss with Lawn Moss Killer or repair a patch with Patch fix. 

Timber garden furniture, GYO and decorative structure specialist, Zest has entered several of its new products launching at Glee into the show’s New Product Awards.

Emphasising relaxation, entertainment and being at one with nature, the products entered include the Terraza Outdoor Kitchen, which complements the popular, Garden Pizza Oven Table and award winning, Zest Garden Bar and Two Stool Set, launched this spring.  The space-saving Tall Botanical Greenhouse is both sturdy, stylish and with loads of functionality for GYO enthusiasts including split shelving.  Another product is the Zest Eco Hive Composter, shaped to resemble a traditional beehive.  For consumers who want to relax with the benefit of a covered dining space, the new Zest Stirling Arbour is perfect.  

Positioned as a leader in ecologically sustainable outdoor living and offering the widest range of stylish, natural wood products, Zest is on stand 20D30-E31 with new concepts designed in house, in line with consumer trends.

A Sustainability leader

The Zest collection is made from PEFC (PEFC/16-37-1490) certified slow grown softwood, sourced from sustainably managed forests.  Zest’s product design is based on DFMA (design for manufacturing and assembly) principles, meaning that packaging and transportation are optimised for sustainability.  

Customer support

In addition to its library of images, lifestyle videos and point of sale, Zest is supporting stockists with national consumer marketing campaigns in garden and lifestyle magazines. 

Garden centre buyers and online retailers can view the new 2024 Zest range on the Glee portal https://rb.gy/x6y5h, the Zest website https://zestoutdoorliving.co.uk/trade and at Zest’s Glee stand 20D30-E31, alongside existing best sellers.

For further information about Zest’s timber GYO, decorative and furniture products, visit https://zestoutdoorliving.co.uk/trade/ or email sales@zestoutdoorliving.co.uk

As specialists in the design and manufacture of original bespoke garden stone cleaning products, the Patio Black Spot Removal Company Ltd are unleashing  their amazing new product GO FERROUS at Glee.

Made from recycled Greenleaf vegetables the acid free solution removes Rust staining from Garden Stonework!

Another problem solved, for previously frustrated Gardeners.

Already finalist at  RHS CHELSEA 2023,  in the ‘Best New Sustainable Garden Product of The Year Category’, GO FERROUS is the perfect addition, strategically adding to Garden Centre sales.

The Patio Black Spot Removal Company welcome new and existing clients to stand 6C78-D79  to learn more about this exciting new addition.

A BCorp Certified, family business based in Staffordshire, Hortiwool has worked with natural materials for almost two decades – the favourite being wool! Originally utilising its amazing properties for packaging innovations, Hortiwool has worked behind the scenes to investigate wool’s many benefits when gardening. 

Created, was a 100% British wool, versatile garden pad for use around the home, garden, or allotment, which harnesses the amazing natural properties of wool: they boast awesome weather protection properties, retain moisture for maximum hydration, and as they break down, the wool even adds vital nutrients back into the soil. The pads are completely natural, and 100% plastic free, perfect for those looking for an easy way to be more sustainable in the garden.  

Replacing the need for multiple products, harmful chemicals or using peat in compost, Hortiwool is a truly innovative way to improve your gardening arsenal, and perfect for:  

• Hydrating hanging baskets  
• Nutrition for plant root balls  
• Growing medium for micro greens & micro herbs  
• Protection against slugs  
• Capillary matting 
• Insulation from frost for young plants  
• Adding into compost as a nutritional aid  
• For mulching   
• Soil temperature regulation 
• Nesting for wildlife

Hortiwool is available as a pack of five handy Garden Pads which covers just under 1m² in total, or a pack of two specifically sized Hanging Basket Liners. Visit www.hortiwool.com to shop online, or to find out more.  

Vitax has launched a new organic, nutrient-rich, plant-based pelleted feed for 2024 as it continues to invest in its natural, environmentally-conscious product range.

Vitax Organic All Purpose Pelleted Plant Food is bursting with natural ingredients to support plants and crops reach their full growth potential from the very start of their growing journey.

Containing 100% natural ingredients, once applied the chemical-free pellets slowly break down to condition and nourish the soil, increasing soil microbial activity to provide a steady release of nutrients. The pellets also help to improve soil structure to enable roots to establish more effectively.

The new pelleted feed is the latest addition Vitax’s ever-growing organics range as Mark Butler, national sales manager at Vitax, says: “The demand for organic products continues to grow and the latest addition to our organic range has been created to enable a wider-choice for consumers without any compromise in quality and efficacy. 

“Vitax Organic All Purpose Pelleted Plant Food is a completely unique product which will give fantastic results in the garden as it is rich in nutrients, plant-based, organic, and can be sold at great price point.”

A great addition to Vitax’s organic range, Vitax Organic All Purpose Pelleted Plant Food can be used all around the garden and is child, pet and bee friendly. 

Easy to apply, simply sprinkle into the soil during preparation for planting out, or if used as a top dressing, lightly hoe into the soil, and water. Once applied, the feed will last up to 100 days before re-application needed – making it a cost-effective choice for all.

Vitax Organic All Purpose Pelleted Plant Food will be available to order during pre-season.

E: sales@vitax.co.uk

T: 01530 510060

W: www.gardenworld.co.uk / www.vitax.co.uk

Increase your sales throughout the year with Command. Do No Damage. Forget about nails, screws, tacks or messy adhesives! Command Hooks & Strips hold strongly and remove cleanly - without the fear of wall damage. Discover the best selling range today and see how it can maximise your sales all around your garden centre. Visit the Wilsons stand at Glee this year - Wilsons are a major distributor for Command.

No tools required - No drills or tools needed! Command™ Strips can be used on a variety of smooth surfaces including solid, hollow and painted walls, tiles, glass and wood.

Holds Strongly - Command™ Strips use a clever adhesive that holds strongly for as long as you need, then removes cleanly. Remember to wait one hour for the adhesive to bond and check the hooks weight limit on the pack!

Removes cleanly - Easy to remove - damage free! Simply stretch off to remove cleanly with no holes, marks or mess. Remember to pull the tab straight down slowly for damage free removal.

3M Technology- Command™ Strips combine a number of trusted 3M technologies to give you high performance products. Using stretch release 3M technology, our strips remove damage-free, combined with properties such as Dual-Lock™ for our Picture Hanging Strips.

Stocking Command is easy with our pre-filled display units- ready for delivery October ready for Christmas!

Choose from Clear, Outdoor, Hanging and General Purpose stands – with interchangeable headers. Just unwrap and put on the shop floor! See those add on sales roll in . . .

NEW Command Heavyweight Products

Be one of the first to stock the new range of Command Heavyweight products- to hold heavier and stronger items around the home. Launching September, get your orders in now and be the first to stock these new lines to hold items in the garage, home and garden.

For trade enquiries contact Wilsons at

www.wilsonscolchester.com

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/wilsonsdistribution

Instagram-  https://www.instagram.com/wilsonsofcolchester/

Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/company/wilsons-colchester/

Twitter- https://twitter.com/Wilsons_Colch

Come and see 3M Command at the Wilsons stand at Glee Hall 8-20 Stand 8E45!  Here at Wilsons, we provide a top class customer service, order by 1pm for same day despatch, we have over 5000 product lines sitting in our warehouse for immediate despatch! We make dealing with us super easy. Request an account today on our website or call us sales@wilsonscolchester.com

Summer is synonymous with back garden barbecues, bringing friends and families together to savour delicious grilled delicacies. However, traditional charcoal production contributes to deforestation and emits harmful pollutants. That's why our revolutionary coconut shell BBQ charcoal range is here to transform your grilling experience while preserving our planet's precious resources.

We're proud to introduce our sustainable Coco Burn BBQ charcoal range, a game-changer in the world of grilling. By utilizing discarded coconut shells, we prevent the felling of approximately 1.6 million trees annually, making a significant impact on deforestation. With our charcoal, you can enjoy guilt-free grilling, knowing that you're part of the solution.

But sustainability is not our only focus. Our coconut shell charcoal offers numerous benefits that elevate your grilling experience. Unlike traditional wood charcoal, our coconut shell briquettes burn hotter, longer, and with significantly less smoke. This means you can achieve that perfect sear on your steaks, imparting a delectable flavour while minimizing the unpleasant smoky haze that often engulfs outdoor gatherings.

The secret lies in the unique composition of our coconut shell BBQ charcoal. Coconut shells are a byproduct of the food industry, and by repurposing them, we transform waste into a valuable resource. Our manufacturing process involves carbonizing the shells, resulting in high-quality charcoal that burns evenly and consistently, ensuring optimal heat distribution throughout your grill. Say goodbye to unevenly cooked meals and hello to perfectly grilled dishes every time.

By choosing our coconut shell BBQ charcoal, you're making a conscious decision to support sustainable practices while elevating your grilling game. Not only will you experience superior performance with hotter and longer-lasting burn, but you'll also be contributing to the preservation of our planet's forests.

Join Southern Trident in embracing sustainable grilling with our coconut shell BBQ charcoal range and be a part of the movement toward eco-friendly outdoor cooking. Together, we can enjoy delicious barbecues while protecting our environment for generations to come.

https://southerntrident.com/product/coco-burn-bbq-briquettes/

Launching at Glee 23, a fabulous new non-competing category in pet products. Oh So Precious!

Oh So Precious is a brand new, innovative range of pet keepsake gifts showing pet owners you understand their love for their pet.  Beautifully packaged , easy to display  and offering healthy margins with a roadmap of innovation into 2024

Please stop and visit our brand,  a non-competing range with great impulse purchase potential from pet lovers!

Plan your day including a visit to Stand 7D29 and chat through the range and opportunity with Helen and Amy.  

Have a great Glee!

Sign for a trade account today www.ohsoprecious.co.uk

At UK Greetings, our passion for product and equally, offering fantastic customer service are perfectly executed through our Homegrown initiative. 

This year at stand 7D42-E43 you will find our ever popular Eco gift dressings range that we have proudly expanded, ensuring there is something truly perfect for every garden centre shopper!

Offering a comprehensive display planning service, including product brokerage, Homegrown is a quick and easy one stop solution to ensuring your displays are filled with the most sought-after designs, full display sales analysis and an excellent merchandising service! 

When you visit us on stand 7D42-E43, don’t forget to enter our free prize draw for the chance to win a Fortnum & Mason Hamper worth £100 (T&Cs apply). We are also proudly offering a FREE a 2’ free standing display unit of our beautiful new Mother’s Day card range with all qualifying purchases (T&C’s apply).

We can’t wait to see you and help grow your sales! 

https://www.ukgreetings.co.uk/

Stand 7D42-E43

Contact: Robert Marsden 

Email • robert.marsden@ukgreetings.co.uk

Tel •  07779 348196

The Natural Plant Food Co are launching Soil Improver at GLEE, a 100% natural alternative to peat for garden use. It’s a fully plant-based option that supports soil fertility, improves structure and boosts moisture retention. 

Soil Improver is a natural by-product of renewable energy production through AD. It is free from peat and synthetic chemicals and produced on their Cumbrian farm. 

Alistair Wannop, owner says: “We know that many gardeners are looking for greener alternatives to peat and synthetic chemical products. And some countries have even made this a mandate. 

“Gardeners are an important part of the fight against biodiversity decline. They cover about 400,000 hectares in the UK which is bigger than all our nature reserves.

 “Our soil improver really is nature’s superpower – it’s sustainable, peat-free, wildlife-friendly, pet-friendly, vegan and created from organic materials.”

A little goes a long way with this premium product and it can be used in different ways – either by digging through topsoil, mixing with composts, adding to compost heaps, or using as a mulch. 

The nutrient components of Soil Improver are Nitrogen (N) For Green Growth = 4.1, Phosphorous (P) For Robust Roots = 0.56 and Potassium (K) For Strong Stems = 9.

The Natural Plant Food Co Has five products in its range of natural plant foods and fertilisers that are all developed as a by-product of the anaerobic digestion process. 

Soil Improver retails at £17.99 for 17 litres and £5.99 for a 1 Litre pouch. Come and delve your hands into some Soil Improver at Stand 7E47.

www.naturalplantfoodcompany.co.uk/our-products/soil-improver/

In the ever-evolving world of the home and garden industry, businesses are continually seeking innovative ways to adapt and meet the changing needs of consumers. At the forefront of this transformation is a company that's revolutionising the way these businesses operate: Flat Pack Sheds. 

Through their ground-breaking Automated Shed Sales System™, Flat Pack Sheds offers an unprecedented opportunity for businesses to dramatically boost sales, maximise profits, and streamline operations, all with a minimal daily time commitment of just 10 minutes.

One of the standout features of the system is its unique, hassle-free approach to inventory management. This novel method allows businesses to focus on what they do best: attracting and retaining customers. Whenever a customer places an order through a partner's sales page, Flat Pack Sheds springs into action. They handle everything from manufacturing and packaging to shipping the products directly to the customer's doorstep, eliminating the need for partners to manage inventory. 

Partner businesses also reap the benefits of a diverse range of high-demand products, including Garden Sheds, Summer Houses, Garden Offices, Gyms, and Dog Kennels. The potential earnings are significant, with partners earning up to £199 per sale (15% of Sales Value). To ensure partners' success, they are equipped with comprehensive sales and marketing materials, access to sophisticated sales management tools, and the guarantee of ongoing support. 

If you're ready to revolutionise your business, maximise your profits, and keep pace with the dynamic landscape of the home and garden industry, don't miss the opportunity to learn more about Flat Pack Sheds' Automated Shed Sales System™ at the Glee Trade Show. Visit us at Stand B32 for an in-depth exploration of how the system works and how it can benefit your business. 

 For more information, visit Flat Pack Sheds or contact us at info@flatpacksheds.co.uk. 

You can also visit Timber World Limited at Stand: Hall 8-20 7C56-D57. 

About Timber World Limited: A leading manufacturer of garden buildings, Timber World Limited is committed to providing products that meet clients' diverse needs. 

The next stage in Primeur’s company’s evolution is about to take place as Glee gets set to open this year, and this sustainable pioneer introduces more environmentally friendly products to its exceptional portfolio.

Primeur demonstrates that sustainable solutions are both a moral imperative and a commercial necessity, providing retailers with a wealth of opportunities for the new wave of ethical consumers. 

One of the most exciting developments you can look forward to seeing at Glee is the manufacturer’s expansion into other recycled materials as it seeks to repurpose more waste than ever before.

New coloured planters in enhanced quality recycled cellulose polymer will be front and centre, with exciting new colourways of Eggshell, Ash, Clay, Oak, Shadow, and Balsam available for the first time, bringing more eco-friendly, recycled garden products to the market. As with the recycled rubber planters, every planter includes a water reservoir for optimum growth conditions, 

Also new for this year’s show are 1m² Play Space tiles, 50cm² rubber tiles, 30cm² Parquet and Wood Grain Arista Deck Tiles and three new recycled rubber Planters: Cello Serenity; Whiskey Barrel Planter and Alto Planter. 

The large rubber tiles allow customers to create a safe, comfortable area in outdoor spaces, perfect for recreational areas such as under play equipment or play houses.

The classic lines of Cello Serenity are enriched with a textured surface pattern, whilst Whiskey Barrel brings a touch of rustic charm to the collection and Alto offers on-trend contemporary elegance with a slightly raised pedestal base. 

You can also view a variety of Primeur entries on the New Product Showcase, including the recycled rubber Cello, Barrel and Alto planters; 28cm Octavia in Balsam created from the new Recycled Cellulose Polymer material and the two new rubber tiles, Play Space and the 50cm² model.

Find out more

To find out more about Primeur’s 2024 offering, please make a beeline for the team at Glee 2023. You can find them on stand in Hall 20, stand B22 – C23. To get in touch with the team please call 01274 518800, email sales@primeur.ltd.uk, or visit www.primeur.co.uk

Red Gorilla® may well be the best kept secret at Glee. Although you may not be familiar with the brand, in 1995, Red Gorilla® invented a product that changed the face of gardening.

A product sold in near enough every garden centre in the country. That’s because they developed, manufactured and marketed the world’s first two handled, flexible tub. They named it the Tubtrug®, which you probably have heard of.

Since then, they’ve gone on to sell millions of units, worldwide, to an ever-expanding customer base, but always being sure to maintain a close eye on the quality and usability of their products. Now, nearly 30 years on, they have a whole host of other products for the home and garden, as well as other lines for equestrians and professional tradespeople, many of which they have created and brought to market themselves.

Red Gorilla® are also a true business to business business, with a wide range of merchandising and POS options, a wealth of marketing assets, and, above all, a focus on customer satisfaction and friendly service. Their ‘Stock Turn Guarantee’ allows you to buy with the confidence that if you’re not entirely satisfied, they’ll work with you to find ranges that suit you better, at their expense, and they also have bundled deals which they call Profit Packs®, which offer even better prices on their products when bought in standard quantities, and with carriage paid orders at only £250.00, it’s easier than ever to stock Red Gorilla® in your garden centre. Visit them at stand J64 in hall 20 of the Glee show and see for yourself whether you agree that the original is still the best…

www.redgorilla.red

STAND: J64 HALL 20

CONTACT INFO:

01455848184

sales@redgorilla.red

www.redgorilla.red

Red Gorilla, 21, Moat Way, Barwell, LEICS, LE9 8EY

This year Protek celebrates 40 years of trading and what better place to do it than Glee where they have exhibited for the last 24 years! 

The business was started in 1983 by Eric and Janet Thornborough, today it is run by their daughters, Becky and Harriet.  They, like their parents, have the same company vision to sell water-based paints that are easy to clean, good for the environment as well as long lasting and durable. All the paints are safe for children, pets, plants, birds and even bees.

The biggest change over the last 40 years is colour.  When Protek started there were only browns available, now there are over 100 colours to choose which will allow each garden to look as individual as its owner. 

There are 6 paint and stain ranges to choose from with each offering a variety of different finishes and price points to match the budget available. 

Their most versatile range is Wood Stain and Protect. This ‘does everything product’ can be used on wood, masonry, walls and planters including plastic and terracotta.  The finish allows the natural grain of the wood to be visible. There are 40 colours in this popular range including 4 NEW colours created to mark Protek’s 40 years of trading.   The range is very affordable with prices starting at £22.50 for 2.5Litres. 

Visit stand 6B61 to find out more and how to become a stockist.

Robbie Toys Ltd are the official importers and UK distributors for Rolly, Ferbedo, Razor,Buki, Winfun, Lionel, Nikko, Toimsa, Totum, Pilsan, Paradiso and more recently Goki and Engino with new manufacturers joining their portfolio, all the time.

As you browse through the website you will find a wide selection of products from the above manufacturers and many more including licensed children’s bicycles.

• Rolly – Licensed Pedal Tractors, Diggers, Wheelbarrows
• Razor – Powered & Manual Scooters, Electric Ride-Ons
• Buki – Stem Gifts
• Winfun – Preschool
• Lional – Harry Potter + Polar Express Train Sets
• Nikko – RC Vehicles 
• Totum – Licensed Arts + Crafts 
• Toimsa – Childrens Bicycles
• Pilsan + Paradiso – Outdoor Swings, Slides, Playhouses
• Goki – Educational Gifts
• Engino – STEM Construction Sets
• Launching for Xmas 2023:

SmarTrike’s Xtend range – 3 New products which are world firsts. 

• A patented balance bike that turns into a 12” Pedal Bike and can extend to a 14” frame.
• A push along for a 2-year-old which converts to a Manual Scooter which the frame can be extended, which can last the child up to 12 Years of Age
• A Push scooter which the frame can Extend as the child grows from 3- 12 years of age

We hold Stock and offer a complete direct despatch service on all products, large or small. 

Weblink – www.Robbietoys.co.uk

Stand info – Hall 8-20 8G46/ 8G42

Contact info – Email: Sales@robbietoys.co.uk  Phone: 01843604448

RocketGro is unveiling a brand-new range of liquid concentrate plant feed at Glee 2023 (stand 6B50-C51). The exciting launch plugs a gap in the market and creates further opportunities around organic growing, with quality liquid feeds offered at a competitive price point and designed to sell through fast.

Created to provide a value proposition for gardeners seeking a sustainable and organic option, RocketGro’s newest range comprises five liquid concentrate feeds: Tomato Food, Rose & Shrub Plant Food, All-Purpose Plant Food, Ericaceous Plant Food, and Lawn Feed. 

Offered in 1.5 litre bottles (RRP £6.99), including a generous 50% extra free during 2023/2024, the liquid plant feeds hit the right price point for both the consumer and retailer. Vibrant, eye-catching packaging will stand out on sales fixtures, thanks to impactful imagery and a clear, compelling message. 

Consumers looking for greener alternatives for gardening success will love this new range, as all products are chemical free, 100% organic approved, British grown, sourced and manufactured, and are the by-product of renewable energy production. Packaging is also 100% recyclable.

The showstopping feeds are based on a tried-and-tested formula that has been used by Somerset farmers for growing crops for decades.

Managing Director, Toby Thomas said: “We saw the need for a value proposition within the liquid plant food market that fits into the sustainable and organic space. We believe this new range of liquid feeds will create real opportunities for retailers, including the potential to generate compelling linked sales to the RocketGro compost range – something that most plant feeds just cannot boast! Factor in the attractive price point, with market-leading 50% extra free, and stand-out packaging, and this is a truly powerful combination that makes this range of feeds built to sell!”

The brand-new liquid plant feeds join RocketGro’s existing organic, peat-free line up, including its River Cottage-endorsed collection of composts.

Glee provides buyers with an exclusive first chance to get hands-on with this game-changing range, so come and talk to the RocketGro (stand 6B50-C51) and Barrus (stand 20D40-E41) teams to discover more.

Find out more

If you want to learn more about RocketGro or are keen to discuss adding its product portfolio into your offering, please contact Toby Thomas (hello@rocketgro.co.uk /07936 928 981) or Andy Abraham (andy@rocketgro.co.uk / 07446 937902). Discover more about the RocketGro story at www.rocketgro.co.uk

As part of a move to strengthen their patio care category, Sipcam Home & Garden are launching a specialist patio care brand at Glee Birmingham. 

Sipcam are focused on becoming a go to supplier for garden care and developing their brand portfolio has been a key driver behind success in recent years with brands ecofective and SPOT-ON.

For 2024, a further consumer brand will be added to the offering in the form of Patio Blast, a concentrated formula offering a complete solution for outdoor cleaning.

Blast away green growth, algae, mould and lichens

Patio Blast is a powerful cleaner for outdoor surfaces killing and controlling green growth, algae, mould, and lichen. As well as killing growth well it offers long lasting protection, protecting for up to 9 months meaning a clean patio all spring, summer and autumn long! Patio Blast can be used on a multitude of surfaces including patios, walls, roof tiles, monuments, caravans, green houses, driveways, decking, conservatories, artificial grass, garden furniture and fence panels.

Take care of Black Spot

Not only does Patio Blast tackle green growth, it has the desirable ability to remove black spot with no need for scrubbing or pressure washing. As an easy-to-use biodegradable formula, Patio Blast’s 5 litre jerry can clean up to 220m^2.  

Patio Blast provides fantastic value with an outdoor cleaner that can restore and protect many different surfaces, and tackle the most stubborn of growths. Retailers are encouraged to visit the Sipcam Glee stand (6G10-H11) to find out details including a launch special offer for Patio Blast. Retailing at £19.99, there will be a market beating promotion available for the 2024 season!

From 4-5pm on Tuesday and Wednesday at Glee, a special event will happen. This will be Patio Hour, a chance to learn about the new patio care offering from brands such as Block Blitz, SPOT-ON and the new Patio Blast! The Sipcam team will present the 2024 offering in all things outdoor cleaning and answer any questions. What’s more you could be in for a chance to win a 60cm wooden display stand, full of SPOT-ON stock. Head down to stand 6G10-H11 to find out more!

Celebrating their 20^th anniversary, Smart Garden are again at Glee (20G40-H41) with an extremely strong marketing package for 2024.

“Over 250 new products can be seen on our stand and that is without the next wave of exciting Christmas developments being launched later in the year,” said Paris Natar, Chairman of the Company.

“Next season is likely to be challenging with softer demand in a recessionary economy. In stark contrast to other major players, we were the ‘last in’ with delayed and very modest price increases during the pandemic and now we are the ‘first out’ of the Covid period with amazing price reductions that will keep our customers’ tills ringing irrespective of interest rates and inflation!”.

Smart’s new pricing is not being unveiled until their 2023-24 catalogue is published in the last week of July, in tandem with the re-opening of their Peterborough and Abingdon showrooms.

MD Jonathan Stobart added: “We are really looking forward to welcoming as many of our customers as possible onto our Glee stand. We are also encouraging them to book a showroom visit as soon as possible where we can roll out the red carpet and provide our undivided attention. We are determined to help all our customers optimise their 2024 sales and profits from our vast array of best-selling products and brands!”.

GLEE STAND: 20G40-H41

We’re back!

The most well-known recreational warmer brand in the UK, HotHands is thrilled to be joining Glee for a second consecutive year after an incredibly successful 2022/23 winter season.

Get ready for winter gardening 

Gardens and growing spaces require all year-round care and there are plenty of jobs to get stuck into during the cold seasons, including taking care of winter plants, looking after wildlife, harvesting crops, pruning and reshaping bushes or planning ahead for warmer days. 

To keep on top of your gardening jobs in colder weather, stock HotHands to stay warm when gardening so you’re happy as your plants!

On-the-go heat you can’t beat

HotHands is available in 3 key variants; Hand Warmer, Foot Warmer and Adhesive Body Warmer to provide warmth to the whole body. 

They are designed to heat up quickly and provide up to 8-10 hours of continuous heat, ideal to provide warmth, wherever you are. The warmers are ready to use and heat up in minutes once exposed to the air. Hand Warmers are great to keep in gloves or pockets to keep your hands toasty and Foot and Body Warmers can be found as an adhesive style so they stay in place while you work.

Why HotHands is a must stock item for coming winter season 

• The most recognised* air activated warmer brand in the UK 
• Exceptional value* - it’s considered by many as the best value air-activated warmer in the UK market!
• Unbeaten duration of warmth (Up to 8-10 hours of continuous warmth), allowing you to stay working outside for longer!
• Available across multiple categories including; Gardening accessories, Gifting, Clothing, Camping and DIY accessories – it is used in more scenarios than you realise!

Adding value for retailers

This is a Japanese invention and Kobayashi Healthcare (HQ: Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Co.,Ltd.) has the oldest history, since 1915, continuing to research and develop recreational warmer around the world.

With over 20 years’ experience in the UK, we have unrivalled knowledge of how to make our product work in many different channels. We offer various merchandising options to make the most of your space and we can tailor this on a store by store basis!

Inspired? You’re just in time.
This is a must stock item and you’re just in time for this Winter so for more information and samples, come and see our friendly and experienced team at Stand 8G58 during Glee 2023 (27-29^th June)

Contact: 

Mike Fenner-Warner

National Account Manager

Kobayashi Healthcare Europe Ltd 

Mob: +44 (0)7908447098

E-mail: m.warner@kobayashi.com

*Based on Kobayashi research (March 2023)

Yorkshire Flowerpots are pleased to be attending Glee for the 28^th year.  We are looking forward to welcoming existing and new customers to the Yorkshire Flowerpots stand in Hall 20 stand number A20-B21.

As part of the family-owned Naylor Group, Yorkshire Flowerpots has a heritage firmly planted in 133 years of clay manufacture.  More than a century’s experience, high quality work and a unique firing process have all made Yorkshire Flowerpots the UK’s foremost manufacturer of frostproof flowerpots.

Naylor was founded in 1890 following the discovery of a rich seam of Yorkshire clay during the construction of the Denby Dale Viaduct.  The great-grandfather of current CEO Edward Naylor set up the company to produce underground drainage pipes.  Its pipes are still used today and enjoy a reputation for durability in the toughest conditions.

The Yorkshire Flowerpots range is a more recent innovation, but the company has combined its industrial heritage with a modern design to make a durable, desirable product that is 100% made in Yorkshire and frostproof.  Yorkshire Flowerpots are the UK’s only volume manufacturer of terracotta planters, producing over 200,000 per year.

Durability, high quality and creativity have been close to the company’s heart ever since it was founded. Unlike products fired at lower temperatures Yorkshire Flowerpots locally sourced clay is fired to the highest temperatures – in excess of 1030°C. This ensures the products have a toughness which makes them more than a match for the rigours of a British winter.

We look forward to seeing you during the show.

Yorkshire Flowerpots

Clough Green

Cawthorne

Barnsley

South Yorkshire

S75 4AD

Tel 01226 794059

Email info@naylor.co.uk

Web www.yorkshireflowerpots.co.uk

Ready to stand out from the competition? Come and chat to the Osprey Charging team to find our why partnering with us will set you apart and prioritise your customers' needs:

Boost Revenue, No Extra Costs: Say goodbye to capital expenditure and operational costs. Osprey's fully funded turnkey solution allows you to effortlessly generate additional revenue from EV charge points by earning a share of the profit.

Drive Footfall and Attract New Customers: Offering rapid EV charging at your stores provides a vital service to your current customers while attracting new ones. Stand out from the competition as drivers actively choose businesses with charging facilities.

Future-Proof Your Business: Stay ahead of the curve by securing grid capacity for EV charging before your competitors. Having charging infrastructure in place will future-proof your business, ensuring you're ready for the growing demand from electric vehicles.

Meet Planning Requirements with Ease: Don't let evolving regulations hinder your progress. By partnering with Osprey Charging, you can easily meet planning requirements set by regions and local authorities, ensuring compliance every step of the way.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to become a leader in your field. Visit us at stand 6G73 and let us help you unlock the potential of rapid EV charging. Your customers will thank you for it!

Pioneer Brush have been making painting tools for many years and are one of the leading producers worldwide for professional tradesman and DIY consumers of top quality products.

With the launch of or ECO and Woodcare ranges we are taking a fresh look at the products we manufacture and respond to the need to reduce the impact on the planet wherever we can by using the right environmentally friendly methods and materials within our manufacture.

Without any compromise to quality all products in the ECO and Woodcare ranges are made to the same high standards as our current production with the same attention to quality and performance.

• Packaging made using recycled paper
• Trays made using paper pulp from waste
• Dustsheets made from biodegradable agricultural film.
• Paint brush and paint roller handles made from recycled polypropylene and bamboo composite.
• Bamboo composite is produced from waste material used in furniture making that would other wise be destroyed.

Web: www.pioneerbrush.net

Stand Number: 7F57

Email: Info@pioneerbrush.com

Tel: 0044 (0) 1924 468327

Contact: Ted Heath 

Meadow View Stone brings over 25 years’ experience of supplying the widest range of imported and exclusive decorative aggregates, with market leading POS and merchandised displays.

Inspirational product displays are one of the winning attributes of Meadow View Stones offering and these are available in a multitude of styles, varieties and themes which have proven to significantly increase sales and cross selling opportunities.  

The company recognises that most people search for inspiration by “themes” throughout the various social media channels. Recognising this as a natural way to shop, Meadow View Stone have designed a selection of “themed” POS depicting the most searched for terms. 

Their stand will feature a selection of four themed display gardens.  These in-situ product displays inspire and influence the customers buying decisions by featuring numerous different complementing products and plants if desired.  Creating a touch and feel close-up of the products is invaluable for customers, whilst the high-quality lifestyle photography and product displays visually transform the appearance of the centres. Retailers can create inspirational bespoke display areas in front of these lifestyle Vinyl’s to feature multiple products and increase cross selling opportunities.

The multitude of display options have been widely appreciated by retailers and customers and have proven to increase sales by as much as 27% where installed.  

For more information on how to grow sales with our merchandising concepts, visit stand 20C20-D21.

We are now thrilled to bring fine art to relaxed summer dining with our stunning range of fine art paper napkin packs. Twelve stunning choices feature a mix of best-selling and new designs from across our ranges and licences, with the V&A having a ‘mini-range’ of six packs (William Morris, Kilburn, Walter Crane and other Arts & Crafts stars).

Artist Josephine Simon’s lush ‘Wild Garden’, redolent of an idyllic English summer with its vibrant green background jewelled with floral pops of soft yellow, pinks, blues, whites and red, makes a wonderful choice for a picnic or conservatory dining room. This has been translated from a best-selling greeting card in our ‘Classics’ card collection and features on a number of our new stationery and gift products this year.

Star designer Sarah Campbell’s ‘Coffee Cups’ is in another pack, in a contrasting vibrant red.

Also previewing exclusively at GLEE are 8 new napkin pack designs for Christmas starring the most festive and popular designs from our brilliant young artists.

The napkin packs contain 20 printed paper napkins (330 x 330mm) and have a suggested retail price of £4.25.

Come to our stand to see our exciting range of greeting card, stationery and gift products: 7A60-B61

NEW PRODUCTS FOR GLEE

For more than 25 years, the FOUNTASIA™ name has been synonymous with ‘First to Market’ creative and innovative design, fine quality, and good value specifically for the Garden Centre and gift market. A Company recognised for ‘going that extra mile’ with outstanding POS displays and merchandising service that build business. 

FOUNTASIA: Constantly evolving Home, Garden and Christmas Décor

ROBOTIME: Inspirational scale models for model makers of all ages

UDEAS: Toys that develop creativity and build self-confidence.

Introducing for the first time at GLEE…..

FLAMINGO: For 50 years, the leading brand for PET ACCESSORIES and SNACKS that make pets and their people happy!

Come and visit us at GLEE (Stand 6J20-20A21)

Ask Handy how we can support your own label manufacturing needs and dropship opportunities! 

Come and see Handy at Glee, stand 20H20-J21, and find out how Handy regularly supports retailers with their own label manufacturing needs with the design and production of exclusive models.

An intimate lounge area has been created on the Handy Glee stand specifically for visitors to the show to discuss their garden machinery needs in a relaxed environment.  Handy staff will be on hand to advise retailers not only of the products available but also of the support provided, including dropship opportunities and point of sale support, and Handy’s online portal for quick and easy access to spare parts and machines; Handy carries over 70,000 spare part lines and has market leading availability thanks to its £6m+ stock commitment.

About Handy 

Since the company's creation in 1938, Handy has grown to become one of the UK’s largest independent garden machinery wholesale distributors and manufacturers, supplying specialist dealers, large national retailers, garden centres and mail order companies, from its purpose-built 70,000ft Swindon site which is home to more than 45 full-time staff. As the UK-appointed distributor for Greenworks and Cramer cordless equipment, Handy is at the forefront of leading battery technology, whilst its successful traditional brands - including Webb, The Handy and Q Garden - support a one-stop solution to all its customers’ garden equipment needs. To this day, Handy remains a family-owned British business. Its experience, expert knowledge and dedicated customer service have enabled them to build a team driven by high performance and family values. 

Handy Brands:

Trade 

• handys.co.uk
• cramertools.com 

E-commerce

• webbgardenpower.co.uk
• thehandy.co.uk 
• qgardenrange.co.uk 
• greenworkstools.co.uk 

For more information, visit Handy at Glee Stand 20H20-J21, or go to Handy at Glee. 

To become a stockist, please email sales@handys.co.uk or call 01793 333220

HJ Hall extends its offering with its new range of thermals, an ideal essential in any wardrobe. Come autumn, these base layers will protect against quickly dropping temperatures, being subtly worn under any outfit for extra warmth or at home for cosy comfort.

HJ Hall’s thermal offering also utilises responsibly sourced cotton, ensuring cohesion across the brand’s sustainable manufacturing. Further building on the collection’s environmental credentials, the thermals also use Repreve Recycled Polyester by including post-consumer recycled plastic bottles.

The cotton, which is naturally soft, has been coupled with TrueTHERM technology for ultimate insulation, making it a must-stock range for autumn onwards. Heavyweight warmth is achieved using lightweight fabrics, setting HJ Hall’s collection apart from others in the industry, and the final brushed effect ensures a sumptuously soft and comfortable finish.

HJ Hall’s thermal offering is available in four styles and two colours (black and white), including short and long-sleeved t-shirts, long johns and vest tops for a well-rounded collection. The packaging uses a one size box, perfect for stacking or hanging.

Nature Safe, launched in 2019, is a range of natural, organic and sustainable garden care products, including lawn care and liquid plant feeds made from a combination of seaweed and plant-based nutrients.  In 2022 Nature Safe expanded their range into the natural pest repellants category with their popular Slug and Snail barrier and seaweed-based Plant Pest Defence.  

Now in 2023, Nature Safe are launching their new indoor plant feed range to meet the demand for natural options for indoor plants, or rather the houseplant enthusiast.  The newly launched Nature Safe indoor plant feed range includes two products, for all your indoor plant care needs:

• Nature Safe Indoor Plant Food 250ml £7
• Nature Safe Orchid Feed 250ml £7

The Nature Safe Indoor range is 100% Organic and plant based.  It is made from a combination of seaweed and plant-based nutrients.  It is easy to use, simply add one pump followed by water to your indoor plants for healthy, vibrant and flowering plants.   Seaweed is particularly great for houseplants, giving your plants it’s, stress busting properties helping it better handle periods of drought, over watering, extreme temperature changes.  

Seaweed is one of the most prominent ingredients featured across the Nature Safe range. Hand-harvested on the Connemara shoreline in Galway, which ensures there is complete regrowth every 3 years, making it the most sustainable option for Nature Safe, using nature to nurture nature, enriching the soil and the plants that we grow and eat with seaweed’s natural micronutrients.  The seaweed is also cold pressed, giving a richer more nutrient dense seaweed extract without the use of heat extraction or added chemicals. 

All products in the Nature Safe range are plant-based and organic, making them completely safe for children, pets, pollinators and wildlife.

The new SS24 collection from Ivyline includes 162 brand new lines, presented within a variety of style themes, designed to suit different consumer tastes. Beautifully fresh colour combinations lift the collection to new heights, creating a truly aspirational feel that will inspire your customers and tempt them to invest in heirloom pieces for the home. 

Many of the latest designs are ideal for prime gifting occasions such as Mother’s Day, birthdays and Christmas. Pots designed for on-trend, small-scale 9cm orchids and cacti up the gifting ante and provide affordable choices accessible to most consumer groups.

Charming Moreton Ivory scalloped two-tone vases in the Country edit are perfect for mum, whilst the Painswick white and natural terracotta planters epitomise the understated elegance of this collection. The Joy Edit lives up to its name with the covetable pastel colourways and delicious summery style of the Positano Geo Planters and Layla. All perfect gifts for female relations.

Interesting new shapes have been introduced to the Nature's Story Edit, with the hand-finished, wax relief Nova design tapping the trend for bowl-shaped planters which taper at the rim. The leaf embossed Botanist planter brings a zing of unusual colour to the fore, whilst the 9.5cm Mia is one of several designs created with smaller orchids in mind.

Curiosity will turn to fascination with the Austin dual-tone metal planters in Rhubarb and Green, whilst Lecce in speckled Plum and Grey extends the trend for pots on legs which Ivyline has done so much to boost in recent seasons. The core Simplicity range continues to offer great value for money with reactive glaze planters at entry price points and directional colourways. Pay a visit to Ivyline stand to see the collection in its full glory!

Stand: 6E60-F61 

Website: www.ivylinegb.co.uk

Email sales@ivylinegb.co.uk

Tel: 024 7633 9180.

The doors are open for Day 1 of GLEE 2023! Hamac are excited to introduce new and returning customers to our stand with meet and greets available with our Sales Director Philip.  It is also a great opportunity to make contact with your local Sales Agents who can make arrangements with you for an onsite visit after the show.

Our stand will predominantly showcase our new 2024 Garden and retail products as well as a sneak preview into our large commercial Display portfolio.

Hamac Lifestyle Garden portfolio includes the largest range of water features in Europe, resin animals, figurines and signature GRC pots. 

Hamac are advocates of using sustainable energy sources and encourage customers to use renewable solar energy to power our garden products.  We have once again this year extended our Solar water feature range and introduced new Solar Powered Garden Creations Product. This will play an important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lessen climate change.

Also on display is an exciting new concept in large pots and urns which are light weight, glass reinforced concrete and frost & UV resistant.  After receiving extremely positive feedback from our 2023 pots we have extended the range for 2024.

Visit us at - HALL 20 STAND F18-G19

Highlighting their commitment to a peat-free future, Durston Garden Products Ltd are making it easier than ever for retailers to convert customers to peat-free growing. With a range of top performing peat-free products that are guaranteed to help gardeners achieve growing success, Durstons cuts through the confusion and makes the transition to peat-free.

Durstons will showcase their impressive collection at Glee 2023, which was welcomed by the industry last year for creating new opportunities around the category and boosting consumer confidence in their products. Buyers can get hands on with the range, browsing exciting recent additions, such as the extra-large Peat Free Grow in the Bag, which was brand new for the 2023 season and is ideal for growing a wide range of fruit, vegetables and salad crops. 

Also available in the peat-free family is a top-performing Multi-Purpose Compost Peat-Free, which is produced entirely from renewable sources and features Durstons’ GRO BOOST technology; and Organic Multi-Purpose Compost Peat Free, which also boasts a blend of the highest quality organic, peat-free growing media, with an organic fertiliser. Both composts provide excellent nutrient content and create ideal growing conditions for plants.

The addition of a peat-free multi-purpose compost to Durstons’ popular Manor Farm collection allows stockists to offer a peat-free compost at a great-value price point, making greener, sustainable alternatives more accessible for gardeners who still want great results but have a tighter budget. Manor Farm Peat-Free Multi-Purpose is a super value, eco-friendly compost produced entirely from renewable sources, for reduced environmental impact. The product’s essential blend of nutrients promote healthy growth to establish seeds, cuttings, young plants, flowers and vegetables.

Find out more

Durstons has been established for over 150 years. To find out more about the latest developments, visit them on stand at Glee (Hall 20 stand C02), www.durstongardenproducts.co.uk or call 01458 442688. 

Dog walkers around the country will have another reason to visit their local garden centres, as Town & Country has launched a brand-new range designed especially for them.

The trendy collection consists of two styles of hats with a built-in light, torch which dispenses doggy bags, sturdy thermal and water-resistant gloves in four sizes, and an olive-green walking pocket flask with a handle.

Not only that, but Town & Country has also created an enticing display solution for the ‘Go Walk’ range, which will encourage shoppers to pick up some dog-walking goodies on their way around the garden centre.

Both the men’s and women’s hats have a rechargeable, built-in L.E.D light with three brightness settings, ideal for darker summer evening walks and keeping hands free for other tasks. Cosy, comfortable and warm, the thermal insulation traps in heat for longer, keeping walkers snug in all conditions.

The ingenious combined torch and doggie bag holder allows users to light up paths, while also storing a roll of 20 bags. It comes with 2 additional rolls.

The thermal-lined and water repellent all-weather gloves help to keep hands warm in unpredictable weather conditions and feature additional padding on the palms and fingers to ensure extra comfort and protection. Available in four sizes, from small to extra-large, there’s sure to be a glove to fit everyone.

Lastly, the modern design of the olive-green walking flask with a handle makes this product a sure-fire winner. Designed to fit into your pocket or bag, this slim and stylish stainless steel water bottle is ideal for dog walks, hiking and everyday life.

Stop by Hall 20, Stand D40-E41 

Barrus Stand; Hall 20, D40-E41

Contact: CustomerServices@Barrus.co.uk 01869 363636

Manufacturer of sustainable Garden Furniture, EKJU have launched a range extension to one of their most popular designs. The Relax chair has been a firm favourite of customers for over 25 years and now there is an exciting new bench design to match, sure to go down well with families wanting a garden furniture set they can relax on!

The Relax Bench range is a collection of two and three-seater benches that are space-efficient, ergonomically designed, and ideal for people to enjoy the great outdoors together. Retailers have a choice of two styles – The Relax Bench Split and Relax In One.

Relax Bench Split

The Double and Triple Relax Bench Split is a space-efficient garden bench design with an ergonomic construction that enables users to fully unwind and enjoy their garden. The longevity of these garden benches is upheld not only by sourcing from well managed forests, but also by using durable timber from northern European forests, proven to be ideal for garden furniture. To protect each product from wood rot and decay, all components are supplied pressure-treated in a choice of subtle colours that suit any garden style.

Relax In One

The Relax Two in One Bench and Relax Three in One Bench feature a seamless back support, perfectly angled to ensure comfort in use. As well as this, the benches feature robust integral legs to support the bench seat throughout years of use. The simple contemporary look and colours available gives style that is timeliess, suiting any garden type, with three pressure treatment colour options. Seating up to three people these cosy garden benches have a solid FSC timber construction meaning couples and families can relax on this space-efficient furniture in their favourite outdoor space with peace of mind, be it garden, courtyard, or balcony.

NEW! Pressure Treated Grey

Pressure treatment is designed to protect EKJU products from wood rot and decay once in outdoor environments. Pressure treatment is available in a choice of on-trend colours that will suit any garden type. This includes natural green, brown and the new pressure treated grey colour option. Now retailers can buy the EKJU range in Grey, a popular colour particularly in contemporary garden settings.

EKJU are showcasing the Relax Bench range at Glee Birmingham. Speak to the EKJU team today to discuss the range at stand 6H40 – J41. For enquiries email eduards.bremers@ekju.lv. For more information visit www.ekju.com.

View EKJU’s new catalogue by clicking here.

Following consumer demand and the brand’s ethos to become the sustainable option for gardeners, Evergreen Garden Care (EGC)’s renowned Clear™ brand is excited to introduce the Plant Shield collection: pesticide-free, bee-friendly and made from 98% natural ingredients. This patent-pending formula addresses the growing consumer demand for effective, organic and natural plant protection.

Within the new Plant Shield Range, products will include: BugClear™ Plant Shield Spray, RoseClear® Plant Shield Spray, FungusClear® Plant Shield Spray. 

As the UK’s No. 1 control brand, Clear™ strives to provide gardeners with innovative products designed specifically with their needs in mind. The bee and pet-friendly Plant Shield range, available from 2024, offers a ground-breaking solution that safeguards plants from pests and diseases even before they can inflict damage. The brand-new range simultaneously enhances plant strength without compromising efficacy. With its unique blend of oils, this 98% natural formula creates a natural barrier and can be used bi-weekly to provide unmatched protection against persistent threats like aphids, scale insects, and rust. 

In line with Evergreen Garden Care's commitment to sustainability, the Plant Shield range features 100% recycled plastic packaging. By choosing Clear™, consumers not only protect their plants but also contribute to a greener future for the planet.

Janne Hansen, Brand Portfolio Manager, comments: “Consumers are continuing to be increasingly conscious of the decisions they’re making in their home and garden, with nearly 50%[1] preferring to use organic or natural solutions if available. 

We’re committed to giving back to the environment and protecting our biodiversity, so it was important that the new range fit within those requirements while helping gardeners to treat their pest and disease issues fast and without compromising on effectiveness.”

Evergreen Garden Care is exhibiting at Glee – Hall 20 Stand C40-D41 - and looking forward to welcoming all its customers and visitors.  

For more inspiration, please visit www.lovethegarden.com. 

For more product information, please visit https://evergreentrade.co.uk/  

Fandango Fire Tools are sharing with stand visitors the news of the resounding success of the Kindling Cracker.

You’ll also be able to discover the range of stunning new Espegard REIN clean burning fire pits from Norway.

The innovative Kindling Cracker firewood splitter - invented by 13 year old schoolgirl Ayla from New Zealand - has revolutionised the way people prepare firewood.

The patented product is a must-have accessory for anyone with a log burner, fire pit or pizza oven. The design allows you to split firewood with ease, without the need for dangerous sharp tools. With just a few strikes, you'll be ready to ignite your fires in no time.

Incredibly Robust Design & 5 Year Warranty

Crafted from high-quality, recycled cast iron, this incredibly robust tool ensures durability and long-lasting performance. The design keeps your hands safely away from the splitting edge, preventing accidents and injuries. No more struggling with axes or knives. Enjoy effortless firewood preparation with the reassurance of a 5 year warranty.

Thousands of 5 Star Reviews & Happy Stockists

The Kindling Cracker receives thousands of rave reviews and glowing reports from fire enthusiasts. BBC Gardeners World love it too - their review couldn’t speak highly enough of Ayla’s invention.

Join our roster of existing happy dealers (Blue Diamond, Burford Garden Co, Kadai, The Pizza Oven Shop, ThemHouse of Bruar and many more) to elevate your fire-starting game. Many stockists who came on board after Glee 2022 have sold out and reordered multiple times.

Espegard

Fandango Fire Tools are also showcasing Espegard fire pits and accessories.

For more than three decades, Espegard has been offering a high-quality range of fire pans, furniture and accessories. We’re very proud to be their UK distributor.

We have five fire pits on show - all are made in Europe. Four of them have exciting clean burn technology - come and see us to discover this stunning range.

This new range of children’s arts and crafts products is suitable for ages 3-10 and feature colourful designs to appeal to both children and parents alike. PepPlay is a premium eco conscious brand, with many of the products designed to be reusable and recyclable. 

All of the products are non-toxic and conform to CE and ASTM standards. The range is made up of around 20 products initially, with plans to expand the range in the coming year. The range includes Reusable Doodle Placemats, Sticker Puzzles, How-to-Draw books, Origami Art, Dough Art, Velvet Colouring Cards, Painting by Numbers, 3D Model Kit and No Sew Pillow Kits.

The reusable doodle mats are a particular highlight and come in a range of designs. The placemats are designed to make mealtimes fun at home or on the go. Take the stress out of eating at restaurants with little ones, by giving them this fun activity whilst they are waiting. Children can learn and play whilst developing skills such as concentration, fine motor and coordination for early writing skills and correct pencil grip. They are printed with fade proof black ink on food grade, non-toxic Polymer sheets and are BPA free. Colour in the pictures, wipe clean and the mats are ready to be reused again!

The educational sticker puzzles are fantastic for encouraging independent, exploratory play. Each scene card features designs that are divided into spaces, each with a number, that corresponds to a sticker. Find the sticker, peel it, and place it in the right space and see how beautifully the complete scene is made! The stickers are repositionable, so that they can be replaced in the event of an error.

Visit the Toyway stand at GLEE to see the full range and speak to a member of the team for more information.

www.toyway.co.uk

Stand - 7A47

sales@toyway.co.uk

Strength, British Heritage and reliability reflect the traditions upon which the Bulldog name has been built. Skill and craftsmanship have been the key to the company’s success for over 240 years.

Our forged spades and forks have heads made from a single piece of carbon steel, no welds, and no weak points. We use only the finest quality timber from sustainable sources to make the spade and fork shafts, then bury the shaft deep within the socket. Each tool is backed by a “ Lifetime Guarantee “ as standard.  The range includes Treaded Rabbiting spades, Tree planting spears, Bulb planters, and Forged Edging Knifes for lawns, Rose Forks, Wizard Rakes with removable and replaceable rubber tines, our famous Springbok Rake and five types of digging spade and fork to suit every type of garden and aspect. We can supply a merchandiser of “ Best Sellers “ or we can work on a bespoke retail solution to suit small or larger areas. 

To see the range please come and chat to the team about what we can do for you on Stand 6J44-20A45 Hall 8 -20. 

www.bulldogtools.co.uk or email sarah.cottle@rollins.co.uk

This year at GLEE Sheffield-based Burgon & Ball, creator of beautiful premium gardening tools and accessories since 1730, is launching a new collection of RHS-endorsed garden brushes, extending Burgon & Ball’s RHS-endorsed tool offering into a new category. 

The new range consists of sweeping brushes with heads from 9 inches up to 18 inches (45cm) in width, as well as two hand brushes and a dustpan and brush. The brushes have been developed to offer solutions for all kinds of cleaning and clearing jobs around the garden, shed and greenhouse.

Across the range, these garden brushes feature denser bristles than entry-level alternatives, offering superior sweeping performance. All brushes carry RHS endorsement and are backed by a two-year guarantee against manufacturing defects. FSC^®-certified hardwood with a protective wax finish ensures a long life, and strong Burgon & Ball branding helps shoppers find the name they trust. 

What’s more, the range has been designed with sustainability in mind, in tune with today’s consumer requirements. There’s a wide choice of brushes with natural fibres; the plastic elements are easily recyclable or are made using recycled content; and production and shipping options have been selected for their reduced carbon footprint. 

The larger brushes are sold complete, helping retailers avoid the complexity of separate head and handle sales. Rather than coming pre-assembled, the head and handle are secured together for the gardener to assemble. This has the twin advantages of making the brushes easier to merchandise in-store, and also reducing the carbon footprint of transportation. The durable polypropylene head-to-handle connector is easily recyclable in kerbside collections at the end of its life. 

Everyday things, done well, are always in demand. These traditional-style garden brushes are sure to hit the mark with gardeners wanting a straightforward yet elegant solution to the universal and constant requirement of tidying up. With RRPs from £5.99 to £18.99, this new collection fills the gap in the market for a high-quality and accessibly priced brush range. 

Johnsons Lawn Seed, the UK’s oldest lawn seed brand, has invested £3.5 million in new equipment to meet retail demand and significantly improve its overall product offering efficiency.

Based in Inkberrow, Worcestershire, the business has been an industry leader in lawn seed for over 200 years, providing world-class products to a wide range of garden and DIY retailers and helping Brits around the UK cultivate green healthy lawns. The new mixing pant, named Titan encompasses all these things and continues to support the growth of DLF UK’s operations.

Titan has 48 seed bins of seven cubic metres which hold up to 1.2 tonnes of seed depending upon the species being mixed. The Pneumatic closed system inputs 12 tonnes per hour into bins and then 6 tonnes per hour from bins to mixers, improving Johnsons’ line efficiency with increased capacity and capability through automation.

Before being distributed into Titan to work its magic, the seed is filtered on input with a “star cleaner” - also used in the food industry - to remove any debris and ensure nothing other than pure seed makes its way into the box. Titan’s rotary valves, diverter valves and connecting pipes are all self-cleaning, ensuring there is no contamination during the mixing process.

The bespoke control software is fully integrated with Nav, DLF’s operating software system and the investment in Titan now brings all of its mixing and some treatments in-house, improving availability in season for consumers who want to care for their lawns in peak periods.

Guy Jenkins, Consumer Manager at Johnsons Lawn Seed said: “The new mixing plant will be a fantastic asset for the DLF and Johnsons site.”

View the full range of mixes at Glee on stand 20H40-J41

If you want to start stocking Johnsons Wildflower Mixes, then please visit the team at Glee or call your local sales agent or visit the website http://www.johnsonslawnseed.com/product-range.aspx

A visit to DJ Turfcare’s Glee stand will not only provide insight into the company’s RHS-endorsed, organic-based lawn fertiliser range and plant food offering, but it will also provide the opportunity to win a special giveaway.

By visiting the stand – Hall 6, H02 - and dropping a business card into a special box, retailers and buyers will be in with the chance to win £50 to spend at Laithwaites Wines. This special prize represents a ‘thank you’ from the DJ Turfcare who have had a phenomenal season as greener gardens reach for DJ Turfcare products. 

The DJ Turfcare RHS-endorsed portfolio

MO Bacter Organic Lawn Fertiliser and MO Bacter Instant - offering the perfect start to the lawncare calendar for those lawns with moss; Lawn Boost - organic lawn fertiliser for lawns where no moss is present; Recovery - a granular fertiliser which helps to repair and nourish lawns using a blend of effective ingredients such as Humifirst; and Autumn Lawn Treatment, a long-lasting, organic fertiliser with added Humifirst to stimulate root growth and fortify grass ahead of the stressful winter season.

The organic basis of DJ Turfcare’s product range will strike the right note with garden centres and other retailers who are seeking to maintain or improve their green credentials, as customers increasingly seek the most sustainable solutions for their homes and gardens.

Viano Organic Plantfood will once again be a highlight of the DJ Turfcare showcase at Glee, as chemical-free gardening products become not just desirable but truly essential. This amazing and long-lasting fertiliser has been specifically developed with healthier and more delicious fruits and vegetables in mind, with a broad range of vital elements and a composition that will improve soil structure and nutrient density.

Find out more

To find out more about DJ Turfcare’s commitment to protecting the planet and our children through its organic-based range of products, please visit the team at Glee 2023 in hall 6, stand H02, or visit www.djturfcare.co.uk

Charles Taylor Trading are celebrating their 10th anniversary at Glee and are offering visitors birthday specials on three popular products.

The company, known for producing traditional garden furniture handcrafted in the UK, are offering the products at the same trade price as they were 10 years ago.

The products, which are also FSC certified, can be seen on the Charles Taylor Trading stand (6B10-C15).

Wow…what a start to the show! A busy day one is giving way to what looks like could be a busier day two. Our tools have been a big hit with the all new lite range being a particular high point amongst our portfolio.

40% lighter than our standard range, Lite Range from Greenman has all the attributes and craftsmanship of our regular digging spade and fork, but we’ve put the tools on a diet! Double riveted and with a slightly smaller handle, our Lite range tools are great for those lighter garden tasks.

Favouring the smaller gardener or those with mobility issues, the Greenman Lite range has been designed with those in mind. We’ve been monitoring this market for some time and the appetite for sturdy but lighter tools are clearly growing amongst the gardening fraternity and so should be considered a must have addition to your product portfolio.

We’ve taken the usual approach to launching a new range and have made sure that our customers are supported by our easy-to-use marketing materials, all of which are on show at this years exhibition. Our space saving mid floor stands which take up a small footprint yet pack a lot of punch, come complete with informative bus stops and eye-catching headers. Your customers will be drawn to the easy-to-understand point of sale and of course when they pick up the tools, they speak for themselves as well.

We’re here for the duration of the show so come and visit us on stand 6C70, Hall 8-20 and browse the stand and see what we have to offer. Our team are on hand for a chat and we’d love to welcome you onto the Eliza Tinsley/Greenman stand. 

www.elizatinsley.co.uk 

www.greenmangardentools.com 

0121 502 0055

With Azpects Unlimited, you can grow your sales and let Azpects do the legwork.

A new drop-shipping service launched at Glee will enable you to offer the full range of Azpects products, with excellent customer service support, without needing physical stock. This service is free to use with no set-up fees.

Azpects Unlimited provides a link so consumers can buy from your website and have products delivered directly to their door. This is especially convenient as it frees up display space and means consumers don't need to grapple with bulky and heavy products. Additionally, you can offer the entire range of Azpects products rather than being restricted by stock holding space.

The new system is easy to adopt if you are thinking about or already selling through your website, allowing you to offer a larger product range whilst increasing linked sale opportunities and overall revenue to a more extensive customer base. 

To register email unlimited@azpects.co.uk or visit us at Glee 7E70

Backed by over 40 years of knowledge, testing and experience in the Industry from AHS Ltd and A W Jenkinson Forest Products Group, the Heart of Eden Range of premium bagged barks and growing media will be at Glee for the first time!

We are super excited to unveil our bespoke stand, where you can see products first-hand and discuss finer points with experienced staff. Kiya-Ellen Rose, our sponsored garden designer competing at RHS Tatton Hall, will employ her signature style to create our planters. You can also see how our outstanding products would look in your Garden Centre, with PoS displays presenting them at their best.

Our stand also highlights our All-Purpose Natural PEAT FREE Compost, Composted Bark Fines and Decorative Bark, which have been entered in the New Product Awards.

Our team are on hand from 9am daily to answer any questions. Visitors can collect a lavender plug, rooted in a blend of our own growing media, dressed with our Composted Bark Fines, in recycled bamboo pots. We are also offering homemade flapjacks to help fortify you for the busy days ahead.

Heart of Eden products were carefully developed with the environment in mind – every component is made from sustainable or renewable UK sources and completely PEAT FREE. We source materials from as close to production as possible to minimise carbon emissions and are proud to have earned the Plant Mark Accreditation.

So, whether you are looking to lead the way in “Greener Gardening” options with our All-Purpose PEAT FREE Compost or mulching solutions with the best-selling Decorative Bark, we have you and your customers covered.

Drop in at stand 7F46 (near the GIMA Lounge) and find out why Garden Centres across the UK are queueing up to stock Heart of Eden.  See you there!

Following a phenomenal response to the launch of their Water Feature category at Glee 2022, Altico is back once again with an enhanced line-up for this year’s show. Identifying emerging trends and flexing their offer to mirror changing market conditions, the adapted range promises to deliver great value as well as depth of choice.

Altico report that their Drift & Flow branded range of Water Features is on target to deliver £1m within its first year, with over half of their Garden Centre customer base introducing products this season. 

Speaking of its early success, Commercial Director Richard Pyrah said: “We’re thrilled with the results we’re seeing, not only on the sell-in, but sell-through of our Drift & Flow Water Features this year. Undoubtably this category has been a key driving force behind our major Garden Centre growth over the last 12 months, and we believe there’s still much more for us to achieve. What you’ll see at this year’s Glee is a comprehensive Water Features range that combines new product introductions with commercial incentives on core volume lines, to drive the category harder.”

The Altico team benefit from over 15 years of insight within the Water Feature category. Leveraging this experience, tuning in to customer demand and leaning on their knowledge of market conditions, the business is presenting a host of compelling opportunities for Garden Centre customers in 2024:

• 20 NEW products launched at Glee plus additional ‘Show Specials’
• A redefined range that covers all key price points and styles
• 10 NEW key volume sales driving promotions
• Lower stock commitment on best-selling, promotional lines 
• NEW lifestyle backdrops to define and enhance merchandising space
• Bundle Deals that present phenomenal value for money
• Easier range selection tools, backed by insights and performance data 

Commenting on their 2024 programme, Marketing Director Sarah Winn added: “This year we’ve worked hard to make strategic decisions that demonstrate our continued drive. We’ve spent our time identifying emerging trends to strengthen the product portfolio, whilst remaining flexible on price and volume commitments for retailers. As a team we believe that becoming a Market Leader is all about delivering category captainship, so we have covered the full Sales, Marketing and Merchandising mix for the season ahead.  

Our goal for 2024 is to demonstrate a complete category offering that delivers the best value for money on the market, enhances depth of choice for consumers and increase sales performance for Garden Centres”.

To find out more, please visit the Altico stand at Glee: 20F30-G31

Pictured: Just some of the new Drift & Flow Water Feature lines to be showcased at Glee.

Glee 2023 took shape on build-up day as exhibitors put the finishing touches to their stands in halls 6, 7, 8 and 20 of the NEC. Glee Daily News photographer Paul Webb captured all the action to give you a clear picture of what to expect over the next three days. The exhibition is open from 9am until 6pm tomorrow (Tuesday).

See the picture gallery below...

Glee has been awarded Best UK Trade Show over 8,000 sq meters at the 30th AEO (Association of Exhibition Organisers) Awards.

In the awards, held at The Grosvenor in London's Park Lane, Glee won the last big award of the night ahead of a short list of events that included ICE London,  Futurebuild 2023, InstallerSHOW, 100% Optical 2023, UK Construction Week, The Emergency Services Show and World Travel Market.

Glee Event Director, Matthew Mein, told GTN Xtra "It is a huge accolade for Glee, the team behind Glee, but most importantly for our exhibitors without whom Glee would not be the success it is.  Thank you to all!"

The show’s sector PAW – Pet and Animal Wellbeing - will bring pet care to the forefront with the best pet suppliers presenting the latest products to garden centre buyers who are looking to capitalise on the ‘pet pound’.

This June, leading companies and brands are expected to make their home within PAW with product categories on show that tap into the latest domestic animal ownership trends.  The major sectors within the market include natural pet food, pet accessories, clothing, luxury gifts and garden wildlife.  And with pet ownership on the rise and a rediscovered connection with nature, well-stocked retailers could well reap the benefits.

New for 2023

Newcomers to PAW include Sabre Pet Food (stand 7A54) promoting its Alpha Spirit brand and Nutritient (stand 7C41) with its Leo & Wild meatball treats for dogs that contain premium, raw ingredients.  Also making its Glee debut is Mr Bug (stand 7C50), which breeds its own mealworms in Devon for protein-packed foods that improve digestion, absorption, and muscle growth whilst other natural treats include The Cinnamuncher's (stand 7B51) Ceylon cinnamon-wood dog chew sticks which are packed with flavour, clean teeth, and calm dogs.

Eden’s Holistic Pet Foods (stand 7B50) will give retailers an introduction to its dry and semi-moist pet food and JR Pet Products (stand 7B60-C61) will be on hand with its Pure meat, naturally unique food range for dogs.  Kennelpak (stand 7B44) will be making its first appearance at the Glee with its YAKERS, Collards, Duchess, and Dylan food brands and Pecuro (stand 7B46) will be aiming to start the insect protein dog food revolution in garden centres on its stand.

In a world where consumers are so willing to spend on their pets a number of accessories brands will be a must-see for retailers at Glee. Look out for The Lovely Gift Group (stand 7D29)who will have on stand the most innovative keepsakes and creative gifts for pets whilst Hem & Boo (stand 7C43) will represent the highest quality of pet clothing, debuting at Glee in 2023 with a selection of collars, leads and beds.

Trinkety Paws (stand 7C45) – the brand behind The Canine Cottage boutique - will be on hand to show retailers its on-trend UK-made dog collars and dog leads in the latest on-trend colours. Another new exhibitor will be Twiggy Tags (stand 7C47) who will be on site with its practical and hard-wearing dog gear designed for outdoors owners seeking an adorable outfit for their pets.

Pet technology and smart feeding bowl for animal parents includes PAWBBY (stand 7C53), Shandong XiaoGo Pet Supplies (stand

7B49), Zhejiang Hangkong Technology Co (stand 7D33) and MRC (stand 7C51).

And for retailers with a large bird care department, PAW will be home to a vast array of wild bird food, treats, wild bird feeders, tables, dining stations and accessories. A new name for garden centre buyers is Unipet International (stand 7C55), which will stock the latest suet-based treats with its Suet-To-Go collection.

Returning names already confirmed for PAW in 2023 include Benchmark Kennels Ltd, Goodchap's, Green Feathers and WHM Pet Group with its Honeyfield Wild Bird brand.

Find out more

Glee connects the garden industry to inspire change, drive growth and launch innovation​. Entry to Glee is free of charge to all pre-registered visitors. Simply register via the Glee website at:http://www.gleebirmingham.com/register  To enquire about exhibiting at Glee 2023, which will take place June 27th – 29th at the NEC, please call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

To keep up to date on the latest Glee news visit www.gleebirmingham.com.

This year the focus will not just be on the great outdoors, as a brand new Home, Gift & Clothing sector is about to take shape on the exhibition floor.

Whilst Glee has long hosted key exhibitors in these categories, the 2023 show will be the first time that such a strong focus has been placed upon gifting, homeware, fashion accessories and apparel. This is testament to garden centres’ success in extending their instore offerings, and also offers a significant opportunity for other retailers.

As the first trade exhibition taking place in the second half of the year, Glee offers a golden opportunity for gift shops to get ahead of the curve and secure orders before Christmas. Visitors will be able to source from top-flight suppliers offering products that range from candles, toys and crafting kits to greetings cards, giftwrap and stationery, whilst specialists in hats, scarves, gloves, boots and other winter woolies will help retailers get set for the festive season.

Meet the Exhibitors Some of the biggest names in the greetings card industry will showcase their latest collections and merchandise solutions at Glee, including UK Greetings, Woodmansterne Publications, Noel Tatt Group, Giftwrap UK and Museums & Galleries.

Joining them on the show floor will be fabulous British companies exhibiting a wide variety of gift and homeware product, much of which has a sustainable angle or is made here in the UK. These include The Candle Brand, The Crafty Kit Company, Playpress Toys, The Wheat Bag Company, Out of the Kiln (Pam Peters Designs), Alex Sharp Photography, Robert Frederick, Kushboo Soaps, Tilnar Art, New English Teas, Ivy & Twine Candles, Jarapa, Hippychick, Playmonster UK, Seedball, Art on Scarves, Victoria Eggs, Freckleface Designs, Rainbow Designs, Naked Shells, Brass Bee and Soake.

One of the new exhibitors in this sector, Christina Brand, founder of The Candle Brand, said: "We are a multi award winning company having won Gift of the Year in three categories, yet this will be our first Glee show. Our awards were won based on our plantable seeded labels on our candles and diffusers, as well as our flower fragrance diffusers. We are excited to be exhibiting at a show to connect with buyers for gift and garden centres.

"We will soon be launching a new selling concept for our pick and mix wax melts, where we will now be offering them unpackaged with POS as well as packaged. As well as our brand new product 'Scented Ceramics' for use in cars, wardrobes, and drawers. Glee will be the first physical show to have these exhibited and for sale. At the stand we will be giving away promotional bags which will include our brochures, as well as first order offers, existing customer offers and a free wax melt".

Also participating in Glee 2023 within the Home, Gift & Clothing sector are major overseas manufacturers such as Pantherella International Group, Maison Bel, Bachmann Europe, Fountasia, Biohort, Hellmann-Versand and Burstenhaus Redecker.

First come, first served!

With its late June exhibition dateline, Glee takes place at the prime time for pre-Christmas buying, enabling retailers to get an angle on the hottest seasonal trends and plan their merchandise ahead of the main trading period. Glee 2022 saw retailers come out in force to do their ‘Christmas shopping’ and this year’s Home, Gift & Clothing sector has grown as a result.

Glee Director, Matthew Mein comments: “Home, Gift & Clothing is an exciting new sector for Glee, and we’re thrilled that such an exceptional mix of companies will be joining us at this year’s show, many of them for the first time. As well as inspiring garden centres to further diversify into lucrative new categories, we also want to show traditional home and gift retailers how to integrate gardening into their lifestyle merchandise mix.

“Millions of British consumers are out in their gardens digging, planting up containers on balconies or cultivating houseplants. The upsurge of interest in nature and desire to be more sustainable is driving huge interest in certain sectors – pots and planters, gardening tools, outdoor clothing and seeds, for example – and we want to show gift and home retailers how they can benefit from these vital growth areas.

“Not only can buyers take steps to break new ground at Glee, but they can also stock up on the crucial staple products which will keep tills ringing in the run up to Christmas - whether it’s home fragrances or giftwrap, flower vases or gardening gloves, wall art or woolly socks, Glee is the show which addresses all angles of the consumer lifestyle shifts that are shaping retail.”

Find out more

Glee is the UK’s leading garden retail show, focusing on building year-round profits for buyers and suppliers within the core gardening and outdoor leisure product categories.  To keep up to date on the latest Glee news visit www.gleebirmingham.com.  To enquire about exhibiting at Glee 2023, which will take place June 27th – 29th, please call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

The team from the Garden Centre Association have a stand at Glee this month where existing members and those interested in finding out more about the organisation can drop by.

The GCA will be at the event at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham in Hall 8, Stand 8C70-D71 from June 27 until 29.

Peter Burks, Chief Executive at the GCA, says: “Glee is the largest horticultural industry exhibition and most of our members will be attending, so it’s a great opportunity to invite them over to our stand to have a good catch up face-to-face. It’s one of the most important trading events in the gardening industry calendar.

“Not only is it the perfect show for garden centre staff to find out the latest horticultural news, see the newest products on offer, meet suppliers old and new and source exciting new supply partners, but it is also a chance to catch up with other GCA members and to network.

“I will be attending and I look forward to catching up with as many members as possible during the course of the event. We’ve a lounge area with tables and chairs that’s perfect for anyone keen to come and have a sit down and to chat with us.”

More than 400 brands will be at Glee this year including new suppliers and some never before seen at the show.

Thousands of new products launch exclusively there every year, from new compost compositions to decorative aggregates, the latest plant varieties, decking, fencing, garden décor, pots, sculptures and statues.

Peter continues: “We’re also looking forward to seeing the Glee Talent Store finalists’ pop-up store designs, which will be at the show too. This was a joint initiative we hosted with the Glee Talent Store team. Congratulations to everyone from all the garden centres who took part and to those who have been selected to have their designs displayed at Glee. It’s a fantastic achievement.”

Glee is also the place to see the latest trends and has a dedicated New Product Showcase area that features innovation and new product development.

Peter adds: “Education has always been a key aspect of Glee’s overall offering with ‘The Stage’ the place to learn more about the key trends and topics that are shaping the future of gardening. There’s a three-day agenda with topics including issues surrounding sustainability and ethical consumers and how we can futureproof our industry, which are all things we’re discussing too.

“We’re also looking forward to chatting to anyone who would like to find out more about our association and we’ll be able to provide information for garden centres and suppliers interested in joining us.”

The GCA represents garden centres nationwide.

Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

For further information, please visit www.gca.org.uk.

The team from GTN are proud once again to be the official media partners for Glee producing the Glee Planner, the Glee Show Catalogue and the Glee Daily News.

After this launch issue we will be publishing further Glee Daily News issues as follows:

• Preview - 21st June
• Build-up - 26th June
• Day 1 - 27th June
• Day 2 - 28th June
• Day 3 - 29th June
• Omnibus - 28th July

Exhibitors should contact Alan Burdon, alan@pottingshedpress.co.uk, or 07939 048899, for advertising details. 

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As the doors opened on another annual Glee exhibition, the GIMA team was busy crowning this year’s winners of the GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund (GISCF) – Germie.   

The supplier of innovative seed starting kit, Germie impressed the judges with its passion for ‘revolutionising the gardening experience’ with reusable, innovative and ultra-compact solutions that hold environmental and sustainable practices at their heart. Already a bestseller within the French market, Germie is expected to repeat this success within the UK.

The Germie collection currently features three grow kits, ranging from 13-41 plants, and is suitable for all types of fruits, vegetables and flowers. Each kit is supplied in an easy grab bag, complete with the reusable ‘grow cells’, with prices ranging from RRP £16.90 - £24.90. Made from locally sourced recycled plastic, fully recyclable and guaranteed for 10-years, the grow cells can be assembled within 60 seconds and filled with seed starter mix and selected seed. From here, seedlings can be encouraged and, once planting out is required, the kit really comes into its own thanks to a unique and patented process. As Germie grow cells do not have a bottom, the plants are not limited and, therefore, the roots continue to grow according to the needs of the seed. As a result, the roots are numerous and well-oxygenated. This, in turn, allows for young plants to be easily released without putting undue stress or damage on the roots during transplantation. Thinning out is also eliminated, as plants can be transplanted directly to the right spot.

Germie also encourages quicker germination, as the seeds are buried at the thickness of the seed, allowing them access to light, water, and nutrients. What’s more, the ultra-compact kits provide the ideal conditions for seed development, making it possible to repeat the germination process multiple times throughout the year.

Germie is now the eighth recipient of the GISCF, which was first introduced in 2014. The team will receive an incredible prize fund package, comprising a grant of up to £6,000 which includes a year’s full GIMA membership, plus a wide range of business support tools including free exhibition space at Glee and free PR support during the event. In addition, the winners package also includes design, development and manufacturing or marketing cost support up to the value of £3,000; access to an industry business consultant; one-year ACID (Anti Copying in Design) membership; and an advert in the next GIMA Product Digest.

GIMA Director, Vicky Nuttall said: “Congratulations to Germie for scooping this year’s GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund. The team is bringing to market a concept that is proven in other markets and is set to open up new sales opportunities for UK garden retailers. 

“The approach to growing is clearly very considered, whilst the environmental impact of the material innovation is heartening to see. It’s a strong proposition that offers a complete, easy-to-follow process that will increase consumer confidence with gardening.”

To find out more about the GIMA Innovators’ Seed Corn Fund please join GIMA on-stand in the heart of Hall 6 at the GIMA Buyer Lounge.

Germie can be found at Glee within Hall 7 Stand 7F85.

If you are visiting or exhibiting at Glee later this month, then this is your reminder to ensure you bring the flower power on Thursday 29th June.

Thursday at Glee is now more commonly known as Floral Thursday, a special day when the industry comes together to raise funds for the Greenfingers Charity by donning their best floral get-up. Whether it’s clashing floral brights, giant flowerpot men outfits or teams with the biggest contingent of floral suits, dresses, hats, shirts or t-shirts, each year Floral Thursday gains more and more traction. This year the charity is hoping that even more will arrive at the show in their floral best. In fact, the quest for the world record attempt at the most ‘floral dressed’ in one place continues – can you help make it a reality?

Upon arrival at Glee on Floral Thursday look out for the Greenfingers raffle ticket sellers in the atrium, where a host of top prizes are up for grabs. By digging deep, buying some raffle tickets or popping a few coins, digitally or otherwise, in the fundraising buckets you will not only help make this year’s event the best yet, but you will be contributing to another amazing year of fundraising for the charity.

For those not in the know, the Greenfingers Charity creates amazing therapeutic gardens at children’s hospices across the country. For the life-limited children this might be the only outside space they can truly relax in and enjoy, whilst for the families, friends and staff Greenfingers gardens can be a place for reflection, a place to hold memories dear or a place of relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the inside work of the hospice. Again and again, these Greenfingers gardens – almost 70 in total – prove their worth by holding significant personal value for those that use and enjoy the space. These are garden spaces that see the best and worst days, where lasting memories are made, and where goodbyes are said. The money raised through initiatives such as Floral Thursday helps the charity to build even more gardens for those that need them the most.

Linda, Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at Greenfingers said: “With even more gardens in the pipeline and the average build cost rocketing beyond £100,000, every penny that is raised makes a real difference. Unlike other fundraising events that may require a feat of endurance or bravery, Floral Thursday is a fun and colourful way for everyone to get involved.

“As always, our thanks go to the Glee team for allowing us to use their platform to make Floral Thursday a reality. Each year the event keeps getting bigger and better and that is thanks to the wonderful support of Glee and its partners including Garden Trade News.”

So, what are you waiting for? Open the wardrobe, nip to the shops or get online to find your most fabulous floral outfit. The Greenfingers team look forward to seeing you on June 29th.

To find out more about the charity, throughout the show, the Greenfingers team will be in Hall 8-20 6J72.

Find out more

Further information regarding the Greenfingers Charity can be found at www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk. You can also join in the conversation by joining Greenfingers on social media - https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/, @GreenfingersCha on Twitter, and @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn.

Glee has announced a partnership with the British Home Enhancement Trades Association (BHETA) and British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) at this year’s show, further strengthening its new DIY sector and creating a central hub for DIY suppliers looking to connect with garden retailers at the leading international exhibition.

The exciting development sees BHETA and Bira come on board to support the debut of a DIY sector at Glee, providing a platform for members to engage with their target audience, whilst giving retail buyers from right across the garden and home improvement industry direct access to innovative products and suppliers that can generate real sales growth.  

In the absence of a national DIY trade show in the UK, the addition of a new DIY sector at Glee 2023 creates significant opportunities for DIY and hardware retailers to engage with suppliers and brands in an environment conducive to doing business. It also opens doors for garden retailers keen to explore a brand-new category that offers real growth potential, as BHETA members join the line-up of suppliers and brands showcasing their DIY ranges at the show. The partnership with these leading trade associations will expand the array of products available to visiting buyers, whilst drawing even more retailers through the doors and diversifying the show’s audience.

BHETA and Bira will host a dedicated village at the show, where existing and potential new members can secure facetime with both organisations, creating valuable networking opportunities.

Bira.co.uk Director of Membership & Marketing, John Halliday said of the partnership: “Bira is excited to return to Glee and support the reintroduction of hardware and DIY to the show’s wide range of sectors. There has been a lack of relevant events for these sectors in recent years and we’re pleased there is now a key event for hardware and DIY business owners to explore and source products and services specifically for them, as well as a place for Bira to engage with members and make new contacts from across the country.”

BHETA Sector Manager for DIY, Home Improvement and Garden, Keeley Vernon commented: “The BHETA team is excited to be working with Glee for the first time on a DIY sector in the BHETA Bira Village.

“Trade shows have a crucial part to play in the relationship between suppliers and retailers, and the Glee audience provides an excellent opportunity for DIY exhibitors. We are looking forward to a busy three days!”

Glee Director, Matthew Mein added: “Having Bira and BHETA on board strengthens our goals in developing this sector and adds real credibility. In addition to helping us promote Glee to their suppliers, this partnership will also enable Bira to reach out and encourage their large database of independent retailers to attend Glee. We have then worked with BHETA to communicate this opportunity to the DIY brands in their membership base to exhibit at Glee to improve their access to DIY retail and garden centre businesses. We have managed to book in a number of Bira suppliers and BHETA members for the show this week and have 12 exhibiting in our new DIY sector, which is a good start to build on, going forward. The great news is that there is already a good level of interest from members who will be visiting Glee 2023, with a view to exhibiting next year.”

Find out more 

Glee connects the garden industry to inspire change, drive growth and launch innovation​. Entry to Glee is free of charge to all pre-registered visitors. Simply register via the Glee website at: http://www.gleebirmingham.com/register  To enquire about exhibiting at Glee 2023, which will take place June 27th – 29th at the NEC, please call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

To keep up to date on the latest Glee news visit www.gleebirmingham.com. 

Every year hundreds of new products are entered into the highly coveted Glee New Product Showcase with just fifteen gaining triumph after a fiercely fought pitching process and judges’ deliberation.  Nine months have now passed since the 2022 winners were crowned; here Glee catches up with a some of those winners to find out how their latest trophy has impacted their business and what they have planned for Glee 2023.

2022 Glee New Product winner: Planters - Woodlodge

Woodlodge is one of the leading gardenware suppliers in the UK, and as consumers become more environmentally aware of what they buy and how they garden, there has been a boom in consumer demand for more sustainable products from their suppliers.

Garden Planter winners, Woodlodge, which scooped the win with its EcoMade planters made from 97% ocean-reclaimed material, reported an uplift in sales since launching at Glee and winning the New Product Award. Michael Wooldridge, Director at Woodlodge said: “Sales have picked up for EcoMade since the launch and we’re forecasting these to continue increasing as sustainability moves up the agenda for retailers.  It was fantastic to have the product recognised by the judges and we are delighted to win. The award showcases Woodlodge’s outstanding product development and our ability to tap into the consumers’ mindset and demands.”

Looking to Glee 2023 Michael added: “Being the main garden trade event of the year we feel it is important to exhibit at Glee every year to reach as many buyers as possible.  We will be launching our new catalogue at the June show which is full of new ideas that are exciting to retailers and consumers. Our range of products is our best yet, with innovation, trend-led pieces and sustainability continuing to stimulate ongoing interest and conversation in the industry. “

2022 Glee New Product winner: Garden Plants, Seeds & Bulbs – Golden Grove Nursery

With planters come plants and the 2022 Glee Garden Plants, Seeds & Bulbs Award went to Golden Grove Nursery with Cryptomeria jap. 'Kyara Gold’. Talking about the win, Golden Groves’ Roger Ward said: “The award was a great boost of moral to the management and staff at the nursery and it is good to have a plant in development appreciated by the industry. Someone quipped to me at the time - “Fancy a conifer winning a best plant in show” - so it gives some positive publicity to the plant group after some recent lacklustre coverage. The nursery also gains positive publicity and perhaps gives it greater credibility and introduction to new customers who perhaps are unaware of its products. These benefits take some time to reach fruition.”

Come June, Golden Grove will be returning to Glee’s plant hub – the Green Heart – it has been confirmed that the team will be showcasing not just the standard ranges but also new varieties and will be highlighting how their plants lock up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and the work they have been doing to reduce their own carbon footprint.

2022 Glee New Product winner: Landscaping & Garden Buildings – Meadow View Stone

The value of credibility that a Glee New Product award can offer was noted by 2022 Landscaping & Garden Buildings winners, Meadow View Stone. Sarah Hill, MD at Meadow View Stone said: “Winning the award against some very strong competition gave all our team a huge morale boost.  In what is considered a very competitive product category, it gave the business greater credibility and further cemented the Company’s strength - as innovators within the decorative aggregate category.”

Sarah added: “We have always been great supporters of the industry event, so will once again be exhibiting our products and new collections alongside our many merchandising solutions.  We continually study trends, evaluate sales data and collaborate with customers and key industry influences to identify gaps in the market or our product range.  This is what drives our NPD along with new or improved operating solutions, some of which will be evident at Glee. 

As a growing business we also recognise the need to be more sustainable and environmentally conscious, so Glee will be a platform to showcase the environmental benefits of some of our existing products, together with potentially new products and merchandising solutions, that improve or negate the impact on our environment.”

2022 Glee New Product winner: Garden leisure & Entertaining - Zest

Meadow View’s thoughts were echoed by Zest, which scooped the Garden Leisure & Entertaining award in 2022. “Not only is it motivational for the new product development and marketing teams, particularly because of all the hard work that is involved, a Glee New Product Award is a great asset for the sales team in driving next season’s business in terms of exposure and confidence.  An award attracts significant attention from the trade and is a great support when reaching out to garden centre buyers.  This is especially true in today’s uncertain times when a clear point of difference and peer group acknowledgement that a product is truly ‘on trend’ is a persuasive message for the garden trade,” said Zest’s Head of Commercial Development, Simon Davison.

Zest is confirmed to be exhibiting at Glee 2023 and will be taking a proactive approach to on trend product development, which reflects the massive changes in consumer attitudes and needs in terms of outdoor living and acknowledges consumers’ concerns for the future.   Simon explained: “The company’s natural advantages are its use of slow-grown timber sourced from FSC® certified forests (FSC®-C114990), combined with quality manufacturing methods and a handcrafted finish with an absolute focus on desirability, durability, and sustainability.  Over and above that, the design team is focusing on products that reflect current trends such as outdoor modular cooking, wellness, relaxation and being close to nature. Our design team are also focusing on the use of the garden all year round and late into the evenings as well as during the day, grow your own self-sufficiency, and easy access products”.

2022 Glee New Product winner: Growing Materials – Sipcam Home & Gift

Sipcam Home & Garden scooped its first Glee New Product award in 2022, topping the Growing Materials category with its Peat Free Compost Booster & Organic Superfood. Talking about the win Sipcam MD Matt Jones said: “Since the Glee award many customers have been impressed with the Organic Superfood concept, which provides a multi-action 6-in-1 booster for plants and an organic feed solution that reduces carbon footprint. With Organic Superfood in stock this month, it represents an exciting time for the Sipcam team, with the biggest product launch since ecofective® was introduced to the market in 2018.

The product has gained hundreds of stockists and we are continuing to invest in the range to ensure we are meeting the increasing demand.

“Winning the award created heightened extra reach for the launch of Organic Superfood, positioning it as a ‘must view’ proposition for garden care buyers. From a brand recognition perspective, winning such a prestigious category upheld the growing reputation of the ecofective® brand within the gardening industry, something that the Sipcam team have been working hard towards over the last five years.

“We would definitely encourage suppliers to enter the awards. Even being shortlisted offers a useful platform to highlight your product range… If you win, it’s not only an amazing feeling but is an game-changing springboard for a new product launch.”

Glee New Product winner: Best of British - Airflow

Celebrating British manufacturing, the Best of British award was awarded to Airflow in 2022 for its “Bertie” Christmas tree stand. Talking about the win Airflow’s Managing Director, Lionel Huish said: “We created our Christmas tree stand based on the feedback we received from British Christmas tree growers who were frustrated with the quality of tree stands that were available in the marketplace.  We worked tirelessly, over two years, to develop an innovative design and solution to the problem, thus felt entering Bertie into the New Product Awards at Glee was an ideal opportunity to present our British designed and manufactured product to a mass audience.

“The move by the Glee organisers to hold the exhibition in June suited us perfectly, as it was well timed for buyers looking to place orders for the winter season. By winning The Best of British Award at Glee, we saw an immediate increase in enquiries and sales, particularly from Garden Centres and Wholesalers. We even saw Bertie showcased on Glee TV.

“The process of entering The Glee New Product Award was extremely straightforward, as the form could be completed through Glee’s online portal. Having been shortlisted, at the exhibition, Managing Director, Lionel Huish was required to present a two minute “elevator pitch” which was a great chance to unveil our product, while also gaining feedback from industry experts. This led to a huge increase in footfall to our stand from buyers who had seen our presentation and were keen to learn more about Bertie.”

Enter the Glee New Product Showcase in 2023

Entry into the Glee New Products Showcase is now open and is completely free of charge to all Glee exhibitors.  The showcase will feature entries from twelve different product categories: Plants, Seeds and Bulbs, Growing Materials, Growing Accessories, Garden Growing Containers, Garden Decoration, Garden Tools & Machinery, Landscaping, Garden Leisure & Entertaining, Wild Bird Care and Wildlife Products, Gifts, Body & Bath, Christmas, Greeting Cards, Toys and Games, Homewares, Clothing and Fashion Accessories, Pet Products, Retail Services & Experiences, and DIY Products.

To enter, simply download the entry form from the Exhibitor Zone (online at www.gleebirmingham.com)

Find out more

Glee is the UK’s leading garden retail show, focusing on building year-round profits for buyers and suppliers within the core gardening and outdoor leisure product categories.  To keep up to date on the latest Glee news visit www.gleebirmingham.com.  To enquire about exhibiting at Glee 2023, which will take place June 27th – 29th, please call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.