Welcome everyone to the 38th annual Glee exhibition!
This year we have worked hard to ensure that with every step of your journey around the show you will be treated to hundreds of business-boosting resources – from bringing absent and big brands back; to offering unrivalled retail inspiration and showcasing leading product innovation. Featuring the widest selection of British and international garden, landscaping and leisure exhibitors in the UK, Glee remains an unrivalled meeting point for buyers and suppliers alike - and represents the one and only window onto the full spectrum of garden retail profit opportunity.
There is an action-packed programme organised between now and Tuesday, and we hope you will be able to join us to celebrate some of the key events that are happening at the show. This morning we announced the winners of the much anticipated Glee New Products Showcase, following a rigorous judging process yesterday afternoon. Look out for the two dedicated product displays in The Hub, located at heart of both Hall 4 and 5, where you’ll find hundreds of products that have been handpicked by our panel of judges as a true representation of what’s new, innovative or simply great within the industry.
Our dedicated educational centre, The Knowledge Hub (Hall 4), is a rich resource for anyone wanting to get to grips with the hottest topics and industry issues. Today we had a programme packed full of content thanks to our partner association, The HTA - including a special session with international retail guru, John Stanley, who kicked off proceedings at midday. Other topics for discussion include social media and the importance of plants within garden retail.
Tomorrow in the Knowledge Hub (Hall 4) we have our first panel debate at 10:30am, which will be addressing how retailers can attract a younger audience. There is also a second chance to attend John Stanley and Edwin Meijer’s sessions at 12:00pm and 1:00pm respectively, whilst multi-channel retailing will be a topic for discussion at 3:00pm with Ray Buckler of Retail DNA.
Remember to visit the Food & Catering Zone – in association with Vision Commercial Kitchens (Hall 5) too, for some delicious tasters, as well as inspirational advice on how to maximise catering within your retail business. Added to this, the Innovators Zone (Hall 5) is celebrating its fourth year of bringing pre-market, entrepreneurial product ideas direct to you, the buyer.
Don’t forget, there is also still time to cast your vote for The Retailers Best Product Award. This is your chance to tell us which product you think is the next big seller. I for one am looking forward to seeing who will be announced the winner on Monday night at the Glee Exhibitor Reception (Piazza Area, 6:00pm onwards).
However you spent your day I sincerely hope that you enjoy your time at Glee and here’s to another great day at Glee tomorrow!
Matthew Mein
Glee Event Manager
